A/N: Thank you for your kind reviews. I will be doing my best to uphold expectations.
To adamohov0: Using google translate I guess you are requesting a ship with Padme Amidala... we will see hehe
To 0Harry. 0: I have rethought a few things and come to a decision. Grey Jedi won't really exist per se in my fanfic. You either walk the path of the light or the dark. The term Rogue Jedi would probably be more accurate and I have adjusted the sentence you were worried about. Jedi that do not follow the council, do not obey the senate (or when they do they don't do it blindly) and try to do their best for the people of the galaxy without being in the Jedi Order. And "Grey" Jedi like Dooku for some time or later Ahsoka were not powerful because they were grey but because they were powerful and skilled themselves. Another thing is that bashing the Jedi Order is completely understandable in my eyes.. atleast to a degree. They do mean well but their arrogance has left them blind to several dangers and their obsessive nature with outlawing attachements is (while in itself not the worst idea) flawed in it's execution. The most pressing issue I have with the Jedi is how much they depend on the order's of the senate and how much they allow things like slavery to exist, yes flourish even.
To BoredKing: Finally some proper criticism, I have already sent you a pm regarding one of your concerns. For the others: You are right, Harry would absolutely not want his family to be left behind so I have changed how his first life went, no time for him to have married and found a family of his own now in his first life, thank you for pointing that out. And why he wouldn't keep his magic? He does but he has to relearn everything just like in his first year as he has no wand now. And while I don't remember everything perfectly, I don't remember him having shown any large skills with wandless magic. About the OC thing, a pm about how I could make him more like canon!Harry would be appreciated but take into consideration that this is a war veteran.
More Reviews are welcomed with open arms. Any criticism or questions will receive answers. Suggestions are also taken into consideration. I am also thinking of building a community server in the future. Let me know your thoughts about such a thing. :)
Showing old geezers how it's done: Chapter 4
Chapter Start
June 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Jedi Temple:
"Relax, Harry, the High Council might be filled with sometimes foolish men and women but they will not bite you" Dooku, who stood next to him, said in amusement to Harry who was wringing his hands internally as they stood in front of the doors that lead to the High Council. For a few days he had been allowed to stay at the temple, despite not being a Jedi, but now his fate would be decided.
He knew he would most likely not stay with the Jedi forever if they accepted him but it was an important step in his plans to stop the galaxy from descending into oppression as he could find a large number of powerful allies here, not to mention the senate connections he could make as one.
He already dreaded all the politics he would have to involve himself in in the future but it would be necessary if he wanted to save the Jedi and the galaxy in general from the dark future that awaited them if he did nothing.
He had already thought about just going on an adventure through the galaxy and become a traveler essentially but his damned saving people syndrom made it impossible for him to entertain that thought seriously.
He could of course always just tell the Council of what was going to happen but they would never believe him, hell even Dooku was later not believed by Obi Wan when he told the younger man that the senate was ruled by a Sith Lord, so how could they possibly believe a child?
From what he could tell he figured he must be at some point before the Naboo crisis as Dooku had introduced him to his former padawan Qui Gon Jinn. And from what he had been told, Obi Wan was currently still a teenager. He had to find a way to get a mission on Naboo, to find out how old Padme was currently as he had no idea how old Obi Wan or Qui Gon for that matter were in the Phantom Menace. If he remembered correctly, however, Padme was only a few years older than Anakin and thus couldn't have been more than... 14? 15? when the crisis happened.
Her age now would let him determine how much time he had until everything would start to go wrong... and allow him to think of a way to prevent Anakin from turning to the dark side. Perhaps he could take him as his own padawan if he had enough time to become a knight, or if that wasn't feasible prevent Qui Gon from dying? It was clear that Qui Gon would be a much more experienced and thus superior father figure to Anakin.
Though what would he do from that point on? Remain as a Jedi? He didn't think he'd be able to live the dogmatic monk lifestyle most Jedi did, that was rather Hermione's thing. Harry was a man (well boy right now) of action, much like Anakin now that he thought of it, and he believed that he could help the galaxy much more by traveling and helping people. Perhaps he could even start establishing a new faction much like Dooku had with the CIS in canon, though this time by having someone he trusts rule it, perhaps Dooku could fill that position in time? Harry would have to see but he knew that he himself was absolutely not fitting for a ruling position. In the end, in the movies the CIS (while generally a good idea) was ruled by greedy politicians and businessmen (and women) just like the Republic was now.
His thought process was interrupted as he was finally called to enter the High Council chambers. Entering the room without Dooku, who waited behind until the High Council had made it's decision regarding Harry, he looked at each council members, finding expressions of curiousity mixed with scepticism on each faces.
Before anyone could say anything he bowed respectfully saying "Thank you for having me here today, honoured Masters". Social stuff was never his strong suit but he figured that showing respect might raise their opinion of him.
"Bowing, appreciated it is but necessary it was not" Master Yoda said with a warm smile to which Harry smiled back.
"Do you know why we have called you here today, young Peverell?" asked Master Windu after a moment of silence in his general no nonsense attitude, why did he always seem to be like he'd be rather somewhere else at the moment, or was it just his judgemental natural? Harry couldn't say.
"Well I guess it could be anything but I'd say it is probably to tell me if I am allowed to join the Jedi Order or not." Harry said cautiously.
"You would be right, young Peverell, but first there are a few things that need to be done" said a council member with a really long neck and Harry looked at the (man?) for a moment, never having seen the species before, before regaining his composure. The following minute saw him do something that he
remembered seeing in Episode 1 when Anakin had to go through the exact same thing, Harry guessed it was their standart procedure when deciding on unusual cases like him and Anakin.
When the test ended, the council members looked at eachother before Yoda looked at him.
"How feel you, young Peverell?"
Harry figured there was no reason to lie to the council because they would likely sense it immediately but just to be sure he concentrated on what Snape had said all those years ago. 'Clear your thoughts' heh he could still hear the words.
"A bit nervous, sir" he answered after a moment of consideration.
"Afraid you are?"
"Not really, sir"
"Hmmm, see through you, we can"
Well okay but he wasn't really afraid, was he?
"You are hiding something" said the council member with the large forehead, raising an eyebrow at Harry.
"His emotions are muffled" said another one which made Harry perk up at the thought that he was finally progressing atleast a little in his efforts to learn occlumency.
"Grief and sadness, you feel, anger even" Yoda said in a pitying tone.
"Indeed he is" said the council member with the mask. "What happened, young Peverell?"
Harry thought back to what happened to Meli, his expression subconsciously darkening as he got lost in the memory.
"... Back on Nar Shadda, not long before Master Dooku found me, there was an evening where my older sister was late one evening so I began searching for her. I found her eventually but when I did.. she was being sexually assaulted by a small group of men. When they saw me they just... they just killed her" he said slowly, his heart crying out at the thought that he had lost another one close to him. When would it ever end?
"And you took revenge?" asked the woman on the left.
"Yes, I did" Harry said sadly.
"An understandable reaction to what must have been a traumatising sight" the man with the mask said again, making Harry smile gratefully. He wasn't a child but they didn't know that and he appreciated the support.
"But a reaction that is unbecoming to a Jedi" Master Windu said.
"A Jedi, he is not yet, his emotions disturbing are nethertheless" Yoda replied before looking back to Harry. "Tell me, young Peverell, hate do you feel?"
"Yes, sir but at myself" Harry said, telling not the complete truth but they didn't need to know that of course.
"Explain" said Master Windu and Harry could already tell that just like with Anakin in the movies, Harry would probably never quite get the trust of Mace Windu.
"If I had been faster.. if I had been more careful.. then Meli might still live today" Harry said sadly, trying to calm his emotions down.
"Hmmm, meditating on this we must" Yoda said with Windu shortly after saying "You are excused". Harry bowed again, turned around and left.
"How did it go, Harry?" asked Master Dooku curiously. Harry grimaced and stretched his arms.
"To be honest, Master Dooku, I see no way they will accept me after what happened with the son of the senator" Harry said morously.
"I see, well we will just have to see what they decide." Master Dooku told Harry, giving him a thoughtful look. Harry simply sat down and leaned against the wall, closing his eyes and beginning to clear his thoughts and trying to organise his mind. It was far from easy but he was determined to resist the dark side without suppressing his emotions.
It felt like hours until Master Dooku shook his shoulders to get Harry out of his trance.
"The council has apparently come to a decision, Harry." the elderly man told him. "So what have they decided, Master Dooku?"
"That I do not know, yet. Come, let's not keep the esteemed masters waiting".
Harry followed Master Dooku and entered the Jedi High Council chamber again, curious if the prediction he had made earlier, had come true. It turned out, it had.
"Master Dooku, the Council has decided that young Peverell will not be accepted into the Jedi Order" Master Windu said. Harry was ready to accept those words but it seemed like Master Dooku wasn't.
"May I ask why, Master Windu?" the man asked into the room.
"The boy is too old, clearly you can see that yourself, Master Dooku" Master Windu said making Master Dooku raise an eyebrow.
"Too emotional the boy is. Clouded his future is and a great Jedi he might become but unable to resist the dark side we deem him to be" Master Yoda said gravely which caused Master Dooku to shake is head and then do something that took Harry by surprise.
Dooku with his baritone voice spoke slowly and clearly "Hmmmm. Long has it been since I started questioning your decisions, esteemed Council members. Once again, I find your decision in this matter foolish. I must admit, I have started to doubt my place in the order and this decision solidifies my doubts. We can come to an arrangement however. I will stay in the Order and start accepting missions I deem worthy again and in return you will allow me to take Harry as my padawan"
Harry looked surprised at the elderly man but Master Dooku's gaze was directed at the other occupants of the room.
"Why so insistent you are in this matter?" Master Yoda asked curiously.
"My meeting with Harry was no accidant, Master Yoda. The force urged me to take the mission to Nar Shaddaa and is now urging me to train Harry regardless of your decision."
"We can see that, Master Dooku" Master Yaddle said with a smile directed at Master Dooku "In that case I say we accept Master Dooku's proposal."
"Agreed" said the man with the mask "It will allow us to observe young Peverell's development"
There were no objections though Harry could tell that Master Windu along with several other High Council members were still sceptical about his admittance into the order.
"Agree, I do" Master Yoda said "Made the decision has been. Talk about the details we must first however. Go show the new padawan his quarters you should."
Master Dooku bowed respectfully which Harry quickly did aswell before the two left the High Council. Mace Windu's eyes followed the leaving boy before the shutting doors prevented him from continuing to do so. He had sensed a shatterpoint when it came to the boy's future. What their choice would mean however, he didn't know yet but he would keep an eye on the boy. Something about the way he spoke made Mace feel strange, as if he was talking to a young adult and not a 7 year old child.
"Something more you wish to say, Master Windu?" Master Yoda next to him asked him.
"I believe it is better if everyone here knows. I have sensed a shatterpoint linked to our decision here today" he spoke cautiously.
"Do you think we have made the right choice?" asked Master Rancisis.
"Given me a feeling of approval the force has given me briefly" Yoda said before Mace could even open his mouth.
"Well I guess we can continue with the details then" said Master Mundi to which everyone agreed.
Over with Dooku and Harry
"I think, Harry, that this would be a fitting moment to tell me how you were able to get us out of the shuttle alive back on Kashyyyk" Master Dooku mused making Harry tense for a moment. He then deflated, knowing there was no way he could deflect the question.
"So uhm, I may have found a way to instantly appear in another place a couple months ago. I call it apparating cuz well I think it's obvious. It's not perfect as I need to visualise where I want to appear and I can only do it in situations of extreme desperation right now and only to locations not far away from me" Harry explained.
"Interesting, would you be willing to teach me how to do it?" Master Dooku asked curiously.
"I see no issues with it, Master, though I doubt either of us will be able to master the ability within the next few months"
"That is of no concern. I am quite amused, not even properly a member of the Jedi Order and already you are introducing a technique that has never been seen before" Master Dooku said with one of his rare smiles. Harry scratched his head awkwardly.
"Uhm yeah about that. Could you pretend to have developed that ability yourself?"
"And why would you not want to take credit?"
"Uhm well I kinda don't want the attention. Please, Master Dooku" Harry said using puppy eyes to convince the elderly man.
"In that case, yes I can do that, but first you need to show me how to do it or atleast explain the details"
"Sure, Master Dooku. So what are we going to do now?"
"It is already quite late so I will show you where your new, permanent, quarters are."
**Scene Break**
June 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Senate Building:
As the sleek, bright vessel touched down on Coruscant's surface, Darth Sidious under the public persona of Sheev Palpatine emerged from its ramp, his long, grey robes billowing in the artificial winds of the city planet. His blue eyes scanned the bustling surroundings of the Senate District.
His destination was the Senate Building as he had felt a disturbance in the Force, a ripple of power that had piqued his interest. He couldn't ignore such a significant disturbance and had located the disturbance on Coruscant.
It was no surprise to him that the disturbance was located in the heart of the Jedi Temple but it still irked him that the Jedi had once again gotten to a potential apprentice before he or Plagueis did.
With calculated steps, he made his way through the labyrinthine corridors of the massive building, his presence cloaked in the shadows of the Force. As he moved, he was aware of the whispered conversations, the murmur of politics, and the endless bureaucracy that surrounded him. Yet, none of it concerned him. His focus was on the Jedi.
Arriving at his private office, hidden within the depths of the Senate Building, Sidious activated a holoscreen linked to the temple's surveillance systems. The image flickered to life, revealing the sacred Jedi grounds, where countless Force-sensitive individuals trained and meditated. His eyes narrowed as he sensed the strong presence he had felt earlier. A young child, probably not even 10 years old, a mere child, radiating with untapped potential.
"Interesting," Sidious muttered to himself, a wicked grin tugging at the corners of his lips. "Such power, so young. It would be a waste for the Jedi to mold him."
But before he could delve deeper into his thoughts, an idea sparked in his twisted mind. The boy was a blank slate, untouched by the Jedi's teachings. Sidious believed that he could be swayed, corrupted, and turned to the dark side, a worthy apprentice to replace the disappointing Darth Maul. The Zabrak was sadly little more than an assassin, a beast, and while physical strength was important for a Sith Lord it wasn't the only thing that made a Sith a Sith.
With renewed purpose, Sidious contacted an individual within the Orbital Traffic Control, a woman known for her discretion and willingness to bend to the whims of those with credits to spare. Her image materialized on the holoscreen.
"What can I do for you, Senator?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly, aware of the danger of crossing the Sith Lord.
"I have a task for you," Sidious hissed, his tone dripping with authority. "I need information about the last Jedi who arrived on Coruscant."
The woman hesitated as she was keenly aware that both refusing and accepting the request could have dire consequences. "
Sidious smirked beneath his hood. "Name your price, there will be no records of our... transaction"
The woman nodded slowly, having resigned herself to once again be bribed by a Senator. "Alright then, but first the credits"
With credits transferred and her loyalty secured, the woman quickly accessed the relevant data. Her fingers danced across the controls, and moments later, she had the information Sidious sought.
"The last Jedi to arrive were Jedi Master Dooku, Padawan Janus Lovissque, and a boy named Harry Peverell," she reported, glancing nervously at the Senator's shrouded visage.
Sidious's grin widened. "Excellent. You have been most helpful."
The transmission ended, and Sidious pondered the potential of the young Harry Peverell. With a plan forming in his mind, he knew that he had a new target in his quest to manipulate the galaxy to his will. The boy would be another pawn in the Grand Plan of the Sith, a piece in the intricate game of darkness that he played so masterfully.
**Scene Break**
June 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Jedi Temple:
In the serene chambers of the Jedi High Council, Janus Lovissque stood before the esteemed Jedi Masters, his emotions tightly held in check. His eyes met theirs, unwavering despite the turmoil within his heart. He had endured much in his time as a Padawan, and the recent loss of his master, Kel Rectus, had left a void that seemed impossible to fill.
Mace Windu, the venerable Master of the Order, broke the solemn silence. "Padawan Janus Lovissque, you have faced great trials and challenges. The loss of your master, Kel Rectus, is a burden that weighs heavily upon you. How do you feel about his passing, young one?"
Janus took a deep breath, his voice steady as he responded, "Master Windu, the loss of Master Rectus is deeply painful. He was not only my teacher but also a true friend. His guidance and wisdom were invaluable to me, and I will miss him dearly."
Yoda, the ancient and wise Grand Master, nodded in understanding. "Difficult, it is, to lose one's master. Learn from it, you must. Honour his death, you must."
The High Council members exchanged glances, their expressions compassionate yet reserved. They both knew the importance of this moment for Janus, a choice that would shape his destiny!
Master Koon's deep voice resonated through the chamber. "Padawan Janus, in time, you will need a new master to continue your training. We have convened about the one to succeed your master and have narrowed the choice down to the following: You now have the choice between myself, Master Shaak Ti and Knight Aoin Lwaubeg. Consider your decision carefully, for it will affect the path you walk as a Jedi."
Janus regarded both Masters with deep respect. Plo Koon, known for his serene demeanor and expertise in various aspects of the Force, and Shaak Ti, a skilled diplomat and warrior who had seen her share of battles. He only head briefly about Aoin Lwaubeg but knew that he was a Consular who always stayed on Coruscant, something that Janus didn't want to do during the remaining years of his status as padawan.
After a moment of contemplation, Janus spoke, his voice resolute. "Masters, I am honored by the trust you place in me to make this choice. It is not an easy decision, but I have thought about it, and I choose Master Plo Koon."
Plo Koon inclined his head, acknowledging Janus's decision with a faint, approving smile. "Padawan Janus Lovissque, you have made a wise choice. Together, we shall continue your training and honor the legacy of your fallen master."
The High Council members nodded in agreement, accepting Janus's decision. The young Padawan had taken another step on his journey to becoming a Jedi Knight, forging new bonds and embracing the teachings of the Order. His path was set and, under the guidance of Master Plo Koon, he would continue to grow in the ways of the Force and the Jedi.
**Scene Break**
Harry gazed at the front side of the Jedi Temple, he of course had seen it numerous times both in the movies and in his second life but being able to loom at it without a time limit was still something special.
Master Dooku, his newly appointed Jedi Master, stood beside him, his presence exuding wisdom and authority. The Jedi Knight offered a rare smile to his young Padawan before beginning the tour.
"Welcome to the Jedi Temple, Harry, this time properly" Dooku said, his voice calm and reassuring. "This is a place of learning, meditation, and service to the galaxy. It will be your home during your training."
Harry nodded, his eyes still taking in the grandeur of the Temple's architecture. "It's incredible, Master Dooku. I've never seen anything like it."
Dooku led Harry through the spacious halls, filled with Jedi of all ages and species going about their duties. He pointed out the training areas where Padawans honed their skills, the meditation gardens where Jedi sought inner peace, and the archives, which held the collective knowledge of the Order.
"Here in the Jedi Temple, you will receive instruction in the ways of the Force, the Jedi Code, and combat techniques," Dooku explained. "You will train with lightsabers, practice your meditation, and learn to serve as a guardian of peace and justice in the galaxy."
As they walked, Harry couldn't help but notice the diverse group of Jedi passing by. Some were deep in conversation, while others moved with purposeful grace. He felt a sense of belonging, a part of something greater than himself. Perhaps he imagined it and yet beneath the overall serene, he liked to think he could feel the arrogance of the Jedi pouring from their temple.
Dooku stopped in front of a large window overlooking the Temple gardens. Lush greenery and colorful flowers stretched out below, a serene contrast to the bustling city of Coruscant beyond.
"These gardens are a place of reflection," Dooku said. "A Jedi often comes here to find solace and to meditate on the Force. It is a reminder that, no matter how busy the galaxy may be, there is always beauty and balance to be found."
Harry nodded in understanding, his gaze fixed on the tranquil scene. He felt a deep connection to the Force in this place, as if it whispered secrets of the universe to him.
As their tour continued, they passed by the Council Chamber, where the wise Jedi Masters deliberated and made decisions that would shape the fate of countless beings. Dooku explained the importance of the Jedi Code and the principles that guided their actions.
"Remember, Harry, the Jedi Code is a foundation upon which we build our lives," Dooku said. "It teaches us compassion, self-discipline, and the responsibility to protect others. It is a path of service and sacrifice."
Harry listened intently, his determination to embrace this path growing with each word from his Master. He saw several faces he remembered seeing in the movies, some of them might become great allies in the future. As they concluded the tour, they stood before the majestic Jedi Temple's entrance.
"Your journey as a Jedi has only just begun, Harry," Dooku said, placing a hand on his young Padawan's shoulder. "You have the potential to become a great Jedi Knight, and I will be here to guide you every step of the way."
With gratitude in his heart and a sense of purpose, Harry Peverell looked up at his Master, ready to embark on his training and embrace the teachings of the Jedi within the hallowed halls of the Temple.
**Scene Break**
June 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Jedi Temple:
"Come on Harry, don't be a party pooper, I just wanted to introduce you to my friends" Janus said excitedly, jumping up and down a little. Harry sighed trying to find an excuse as to why it wouldn't be proper for him to join Janus. He liked the boy, he really did, but he didn't want to be stuck with a couple of immature teenagers.
"But Janus you all are so much older than me, wouldn't they look down on me because I am so much younger and smaller?" he asked shyly. The teenage boy faltered for a second before regaining his enthusiasm and grabbing Harry's arm.
"Don't think so little of yourself Harry, come on you'll like them!" Janus said and Harry wasn't able to prevent himself from grimacing as he was pulled along by the older and stronger boy.
The hum of activity filled the spacious refectory as Janus Lovissque and Harry Peverell entered the bustling dining hall of the Jedi Temple. Rows of long tables were filled with Jedi of various species, engaged in lively conversation or quietly reflecting on their monotone meals.
Janus, his Jedi robes flowing gracefully around him, led Harry through the crowd with a warm smile. Harry followed, still not really happy about the entire situation but masking it to make a good first impression. First impressions mattered immensely, his and Malfoy's rivalry after their first meeting showed that perfectly.
As they approached a table near the center of the hall, Janus gestured for Harry to take a seat. "Harry, these are some of my friends," he said, introducing his companions.
Seated around the table were several Jedi padawans, each with a distinct presence in the force
"Harry, meet Obi-Wan Kenobi," Janus said, indicating a young man with short-cropped auburn hair and a friendly demeanor. "He's got a talent for diplomacy and negotiation."
Obi-Wan extended a hand with a warm smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Harry. Janus has told us a lot about you."
Harry shook Obi-Wan's hand, his nerves easing as he returned the smile. "Nice to meet you too."
Janus continued with the introductions. "This is Malek Grabana," he said, gesturing toward a Mirialan initiate with intricate facial tattoos. "He's one of the most dedicated Jedi I know."
Malek nodded politely. "Welcome, Harry. The Jedi Temple is a vast place, but we're all part of the same family."
Iness Levre, a Twi'lek with vibrant blue skin, leaned forward with a friendly grin. "And I'm Iness. I've heard you've already been quite the resourceful Padawan."
Harry chuckled, feeling more at ease with each introduction. "Resourceful might be one way to put it."
Caya Nerad, a female Pau'an padawan with a confident presence, chimed in. "Janus told us about your adventure on Wasskah. We have heard about what Trandoshans usually do there with the people they capture. You must be quite skilled to survive there."
Harry's cheeks reddened slightly as he replied, "It was... challenging, but we made it out." Damnit, why was he still not able to receive praise without blushing every now and then?
As the meal continued, Harry found himself engaged in lively conversations with his new friends. They talked about their training, shared anecdotes about their missions, and discussed their hopes and dreams as Jedi.
Obi-Wan, in particular, offered words of wisdom and encouragement to Harry. "Every Padawan's journey is unique, Harry. Embrace the teachings, trust the High Council and the force, and you'll find your way."
Malek added, "And remember, we're here to support each other. The bonds we forge as Padawans often last a lifetime."
Iness nodded in agreement. "You're among friends here, Harry. If you ever need advice or assistance, don't hesitate to ask."
Caya smiled warmly. "Welcome to our little group, Harry. We're excited to get to know you better."
As the meal concluded and they bid each other farewell, Harry felt a sense of belonging among his fellow Padawans. The Jedi Temple was not just a place of training; it was a community of like-minded individuals, each on their own unique journey to become guardians of peace and justice.
With Janus and his new friends by his side, Harry Peverell looked forward to the adventures and challenges that lay ahead as a Jedi Padawan.
**Scene Break**
July 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Jedi Temple:
The night was calm, the gentle hum of the Jedi Temple's life-support systems serving as a soothing backdrop to Harry's efforts. He sat cross-legged on the floor of his quarters, his eyes closed in deep meditation. The dim light filtering through the window created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for the mental exercises he was about to undertake.
Harry's journey into the Force had been a remarkable one, but he was determined to master one of its lesser-known aspects: occlumency. He understood the importance of shielding his thoughts and emotions, especially in a place as sensitive to the Force as the Jedi Temple. Janus and his fellow Padawans had been instructing him on the basics, and he was eager to progress.
He began by focusing on his breathing, inhaling slowly and deeply, then exhaling with equal care. It was a practice he had learned early on during his time as a Jedi Padawan, helping him ground himself in moments of stress or uncertainty. Now, it was the foundation of his meditation.
With each breath, Harry turned his attention inward, seeking the calm center of his mind. He envisioned his thoughts as a swirling storm, a tempest of memories, fears, and emotions. His goal was to bring order to this chaos, to clear away the debris and create a serene mental landscape.
Hours passed as he delved deeper into his meditation. It was an exercise in patience and discipline, one that required unwavering focus. Harry's mind was a battleground, but he was determined to win the war against the chaos within. It was at times like these where he really wished to have an organised mind like Hermione did but he knew that he would never get to that level. He roughly wrestled his most disturbing memories, who slowly threatened to escape the chains he had put on them, back into submission before making sure that all his memories of his Hogwarts years and beyond were still there where they should be. He then turned to his recent memories.
Gradually, he began to feel a sense of control. The storm of new memories began to subside, and his thoughts fell into place. Memories of his past on Nar Shaddaa, his time on Wasskah, and the challenges he had faced as a young Padawan all found their respective corners, somewhat neatly organized.
With his mind now mostly calm and Harry decided to attempt something more advanced. For the first time ever he tried erecting a mental wall outside the rudimentary landscape that represented his mind but failed horribly to do so.
'Oh well' he sighed mentally 'Seems like it will still take some more time to do that one'.
He then turned to something that would have been considered almost impossible in his first life, wandless magic. While he didn't have a wand like he did in his previous life, he believed that he could harness this power through the Force if he just practiced enough.
Closing his eyes, he extended his hand, palm facing upward. His fingertips tingled with anticipation as he focused his will. The room remained quiet, but within him, a spark of energy emerged.
Harry tried to conjure a simple object—a small sphere of light. He imagined it vividly, picturing the orb forming in his hand. The Force responded, albeit faintly. A soft, almost imperceptible glow emanated from his palm.
His brow furrowed in concentration as he continued to channel his energy. The glow intensified slightly, but the sphere remained elusive, a flickering manifestation of his efforts. This was as far as he had already gotten so far but why was he just not able to proceed forwards? It was incredibly frustrating for the young boy.
Still, he didn't give up and sweat formed on Harry's brow as he persisted, his determination unwavering. He knew that learning wandless magic was a formidable task, one that would require patience and practice. In this moment, it was a reminder of the infinite possibilities Magic and the Force held, waiting to be unlocked.
With a deep breath, Harry released the energy he had harnessed, allowing the faint light to dissipate. He knew that it would take time, but he was ready to embrace the challenge. Closing his meditation session, he leaned back, his mind clearer and his resolve strengthened.
Harry knew that the road ahead as a Jedi Padawan was filled with trials and tests, but he welcomed each one as an opportunity to grow. With occlumency and wandless magic on his list of skills to master, he was eager to face whatever challenges lay ahead in his quest for knowledge and mastery of the Force.
**Scene Break**
July 1982 / 43 BBY, Coruscant, Jedi Temple:
The Jedi Temple training hall buzzed with activity as Jedi of various ages honed their combat skills. Harry stood in the corner, his eyes fixed on a young Jedi Padawan, his new friend Obi-Wan Kenobi. Obi-Wan, though still a Padawan himself, was a skilled practitioner of Form III lightsaber combat, also known as Soresu. He moved with grace and precision as he engaged a training droid.
Obi-Wan's blue training saber danced through the air, deflecting blaster bolts fired by the droid with remarkable ease. He deftly parried the droid's strikes, his movements economical and efficient. The young Jedi's concentration was unwavering as he countered the droid's attacks, moving in a controlled and deliberate manner.
Harry was captivated by Obi-Wan's display of skill. He had never seen lightsaber combat up close before, and the precision and discipline involved were impressive. It was a stark contrast to the chaotic battles he had witnessed on Nar Shaddaa.
As Obi-Wan finished his training session, Harry couldn't help but applaud along with the other spectators. Obi-Wan gave a humble nod of acknowledgment before deactivating his training saber and heading towards Harry.
"Quite the show, wasn't it?" Obi-Wan said with a friendly smile.
Harry nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely! You're amazing with that lightsaber."
Obi-Wan chuckled. "Thank you. I've been practicing for a while. It's all about focus and technique."
Just then, Jedi Master Dooku approached them, his presence commanding attention. "Obi-Wan, your skills with Form III are impressive, but there's always room for improvement."
Obi-Wan's expression turned serious as he regarded his Master. "Of course, Master Dooku. I'm always eager to learn."
Dooku then turned his gaze to Harry. "And speaking of learning, young Harry, it's time we begin your training in the ways of lightsaber combat."
Harry's eyes widened with excitement. He had been looking forward to this moment. Dooku was a renowned master of Form II lightsaber combat, also known as Makashi, which emphasized precision and dueling finesse.
Dooku handed Harry a training saber, and the two of them moved to a clear area of the training hall. Dooku demonstrated the basic stance and movements of Makashi, his blade gliding smoothly through the air.
Makashi was described as elegant and focused, and was based on balance and footwork to outmaneuver opponents. Fluidity, precision, and economy of motion were relied on, rather than strength, with Form II bladework heavily utilizing jabs and light cuts rather than hack and slash movements.
"Remember, Makashi is about control," Dooku explained. "You must anticipate your opponent's movements and strike with precision. It's not about overpowering them but outdueling them."
Harry nodded and mimicked Dooku's stance, feeling the weight of the training saber in his hand. Under Dooku's patient guidance, he began to practice the basic forms and movements of Makashi.
End of Chapter
A/N: Perhaps you can guess who I have chosen for Harry's future wife, though any guesses you will make based on this chapter will be dead wrong muahahaha.