Chapter 3: Beginnings on Artorias

5 ABY - One Year After the Events of Return of the Jedi

The morning light on Artorias cast a warm golden glow over the lush green plains that stretched out beyond the Correlius family's house. The early rays promised a day full of possibilities. Inside the Correlius home, warmth and hospitality were palpable as they welcomed their guests, the Windu family, who had traveled from Haruun Kal. The two families shared a strong bond rooted in shared values and experiences.

Outside the Correlius Home

Luke Skywalker stood tall, his Jedi robes flowing gently in the morning breeze. His calm, steady presence commanded attention as he watched over two young trainees. Thad Correlius, a bright-eyed and eager twelve-year-old, stood beside Sara Windu, an equally spirited and determined girl. The two friends listened intently as Luke began their training session.

"Remember," Luke said, his voice soothing yet firm, "The Force is not just about power. It's about balance, control, and understanding. Today we'll start with the basics."

Luke handed each of them a practice saber. Thad and Sara exchanged excited glances, their anticipation evident.

"First, we'll focus on form," Luke continued. "Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Find your center."

Thad and Sara mirrored Luke's stance, grounding themselves as they held their practice sabers. Luke moved gracefully, demonstrating a basic defensive posture. The children followed his lead, their movements slightly awkward but full of earnest effort.

"Good," Luke praised. "Now let's practice some basic strikes."

He demonstrated a series of fluid, controlled strikes, emphasizing precision over force. Thad and Sara imitated him, their strikes becoming more confident with each attempt.

Inside the Correlius Home

Meanwhile, inside the house, Leia Organa Solo sat with Yvonne Correlius and Lorna Windu, Mace Windu's sister-in-law. Leia, noticeably pregnant, listened attentively as Yvonne shared stories about the Correlius family.

"Xavier and I met during the Clone Wars," Yvonne began, a nostalgic smile on her face. "He was a diplomat, and I was a communications officer. Our paths crossed on many occasions, and it wasn't long before we realized we were meant for each other."

Lorna nodded, intrigued. "It must have been challenging balancing such demanding roles and a relationship during those times."

Yvonne laughed softly. "It was. But Xavier has always been incredibly supportive. He believes in the importance of diplomacy and communication, especially in times of conflict."

Leia smiled. "That sounds a lot like Thad. He's always been so earnest and thoughtful."

"Thad gets that from his father," Yvonne said proudly. "Xavier has taught him the value of listening and understanding before taking action. It's a quality that I hope will serve him well in his Jedi training."

Back Outside

The morning sun climbed higher as Thad and Sara continued their training. Luke introduced them to simple Force exercises, guiding them to feel the Force flowing through them.

"Close your eyes," Luke instructed. "Breathe. Feel the Force around you. It connects all living things. Let it guide you."

Thad and Sara closed their eyes, taking deep breaths. They reached out with their senses, feeling the gentle hum of the Force in the air. Thad's brow furrowed in concentration while Sara's face lit up with a serene smile.

"I can feel it," Sara whispered. "It's like… a warm breeze."

Thad nodded, eyes still closed. "It's everywhere. It feels… alive."

Luke smiled, pleased with their progress. "Good. Remember this feeling. The Force is your ally always."

However, as the training continued, Luke noticed Thad struggling to maintain his focus. His strikes were slightly off, and his form faltered more frequently. Concerned, Luke approached him.

"Thad, is something bothering you?" Luke asked gently.

Thad looked down, his expression conflicted. "I… I keep thinking about what happened on Bespin. It's hard to concentrate."

Luke placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "It's understandable, Thad. What you went through was traumatic. But remember, the Force is not just about strength; it's also about healing. Let it guide you."

Thad nodded, taking a deep breath. He closed his eyes again, trying to center himself. Slowly, he began to feel the calming presence of the Force easing his anxiety. Thad's thoughts drifted back to Bespin, the cold metallic hallways, the sound of Vader's breathing, and the terror he felt. But with Luke's guidance, he started to separate those memories from his present, focusing on the warmth and light of the Force around him.

Discovery of the Plains

After the training session, Thad and Sara found themselves drawn away from the house, their curiosity leading them towards the horizon. They wandered through the fields, the tall grasses swaying gently in the breeze.

"Let's explore!" Thad suggested, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Sara grinned, her adventurous spirit matching his. "Race you to the top of that hill!"

They sprinted across the plains, laughter trailing behind them. When they reached the top, they were greeted by a breathtaking view of endless fields stretching out under the sky. It was a serene, untouched beauty that left them both in awe.

"This place is amazing," Thad said, catching his breath. "It's like our own secret world."

Sara nodded, her eyes shining. "We should come here whenever we can. It's… special."

They sat down on the grass, the excitement of discovery making them feel closer than ever. They talked about their dreams, their hopes, and their training with Luke. Despite their young age, there was a bond forming between them, a deep platonic connection that promised to grow stronger with time.

"I'm glad we're friends, Thad," Sara said, looking out over the plains.

"Me too, Sara," Thad replied with a smile. "I feel like we're going to be great Jedi together."

Sara laughed softly. "Yeah, and who knows? Maybe we'll have lots of adventures."

"Definitely," Thad agreed. "We'll always have each other's backs, no matter what."

They sat quietly for a moment, enjoying the peacefulness of the plains. In that silence, their bond grew stronger, rooted in the shared dreams of two young friends.

Inside the Correlius Home

Back at the house, the conversation continued, touching on the history and legacy of the Windu and Correlius families.

"Mace was a great Jedi," Yvonne said, her voice filled with respect. "His legacy lives on through Sara."

Lorna smiled wistfully. "He would have been proud to see Sara training with Luke. To see her embrace the Force."

Leia added, "And Thad… he has such potential. The Force is strong with him. Luke sees it too."

Yvonne nodded. "Xavier and I are proud of him. We just want to guide him, help him find his path."

Leia smiled. "With parents like you, and with Luke's guidance, I'm sure he'll become a great Jedi."

Back on the Plains

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the plains, Thad and Sara made their way back home. They were tired but happy, their hearts full of the day's discoveries.

"You know, Sara," Thad said as they walked, "I think we're going to be friends for a long time."

Sara grinned. "I think so too, Thad. Best friends."

They reached the house, the warmth of their families welcoming them back. As they settled down for the evening, they couldn't help but feel excited about the future. They were at the beginning of an incredible journey, one that would shape their destinies and strengthen their bond.

In the twilight, as the stars began to dot the sky, Thad and Sara knew that they had found something truly special. Not just in the plains but in each other. A friendship that would stand the test of time, guided by the Force and bound by the heart.