Star Wars A Jedi Lost - Part 1
War rages across the galaxy. The Clone Wars have spread to every corner, leaving devastation in their wake. The Jedi, once peacekeepers, are now generals in a conflict that tests their resolve and principles.
Young Padawan Edric Kane and his Master, Kael Asher, are thrust into the heart of the battle on the distant planet of Tarnos. The Separatists, coveting Tarnos for its rich resources, have launched a brutal assault, overwhelming the Republic forces.
The Jedi hope to turn the tide on a battle that seems more desperate with every hour. Meanwhile, the young Padawan Edric Kane feels something is not quite right with this mission – or their role in this war…
Chapter 1 - Tarnos
The Venator-class star destroyer rocked violently as it exited hyperspace, hurling Edric Kane against the bulkhead. Alarms blared, sparks flew and acrid smoke filled the air. The pilot's voice crackled over the comm, barely audible over the chaos. The young Padawan's heart pounded as he struggled to his feet. Outside the ship, the Battle of Tarnos greeted them with a fierce surprise, and even his nascent connection to the Force whispered that this was only the beginning of something much worse – a sinister premonition that had accompanied him already throughout the journey from Coruscant.
Edric's vision was blurred as he tried to regain his balance, his ears ringing from the violent forces. He shook his head, catching the frantic chatter of clone troopers on the bridge, their disciplined voices tinged with urgency. Through the viewport, he glimpsed a Separatist cruiser, its turbolasers firing relentlessly at their vessel. Space was a cacophony of explosions and blaster fire, painting a grim portrait of war.
The ship lurched again, and Edric saw Kael Asher stumble. He moved to his mentor's side, extending a strong arm to help him up. Despite being only sixteen, Edric's formidable frame – larger and stronger than most sixteen-year-olds – kept him steady. Sun-kissed curls framed a face where striking grey eyes and the budding beard lent him an air of maturity beyond his years.
"Thank you, Edric," Kael said, regaining his footing and brushing dust off of his robe. The older Jedi's calm demeanor remained unshaken.
"Status report!" the Jedi Master called to the clones.
"We are being blown to pieces, Master," Edric quipped ahead of any troopers. His sarcasm was rewarded with a roll of his master's eyes.
"Very observant of you, my young Padawan."
"Your apprentice is half-right, Sir. But our shields are holding just fine. We are taking evasive maneuvers to get out of that frigate's firing range," a clone trooper said, confirming what both Edric and Master Asher had suspected, exchanging a knowing glance.
Edric tried to smile, but it vanished as another explosion shook the bridge. He inhaled deeply, each breath a battle against the storm of thoughts raging in his mind. For nearly three years, the war's brutal lessons had carved themselves into his young soul, as it had on countless other Padawans. And we were peacekeepers before, not soldiers, he mused, questioning their role in this war.
The tranquil green hues of the planet Tarnos' lush surface glinted off his grey eyes, a stark contrast to the turbulence within him. Since their exit from hyperspace, an icy dread had slithered up his spine.
"Focus, Edric. Center yourself in the Force," Master Kael Asher's calm voice cut through the tension. Edric wasn't surprised his Master read him like an open book, but still he was hoping he could maintain a better facade by now. Master Asher, with his long dark hair and beard, was a figure of wisdom. His serenity amidst conflict was something Edric admired and struggled to achieve.
"Yes, Master," Edric replied. He closed his eyes and reached out with the Force, searching for the elusive sense of connection he had practiced so many times at the Jedi Temple. A fleeting peace washed over him, a brief respite from the unrest. Instinctively, Edric's hand moved to the hilt of his lightsaber. The cold metal of the yellow blade, a symbol of his hope and determination, grounded him. He drew strength from the coldness despite the raw energy of the tiny kyber crystal within, refocusing his mind on the mission.
He recalled their briefing with the Jedi Council before leaving the Temple on Coruscant. Tarnos was a key strategic point, rich in doonium deposits coveted by both the Republic and the Separatists. The planet had been in unrest for decades. Aristocrats owned the doonium mines and profits, maintaining neutrality up to the Clone Wars. They exploited the lower classes for labor, building high-rise cities and lavish lifestyles on their backs. The oppressed had pleaded for aid for years, but both the Republic and the Jedi Order only attempted diplomatic solutions that led nowhere. Rumors of a resistance emerged after unexplained sabotage at several mining facilities. Politically, the Republic was wary of openly supporting the lower classes, fearing it would shatter the delicate equilibrium and lose a vital source of the mineral.
That changed when the war broke out, and the Separatists struck a deal with the rich owners to supply doonium exclusively to the CIS. This gave the Republic an opportunity to help the poor while gaining control over the mines. It seemed too good to be true, and they underestimated the enemy's defenses. The campaign quickly grew desperate, prompting the Senate to send more reinforcements, including the Venator-class destroyer Edric was on.
He knew that even Master Asher disagreed with the Council on this issue, challenging them during the briefing about why they were only helping the people now, when it was suddenly convenient. He had never seen him being so confrontational with the Council.
"Master, if we get to the planet – and that seems like a big if – what then?" Edric asked while holding onto the bulkhead as their vessel shook once more. His master sighed.
"Our primary objective is to relieve some of the overwhelmed clone battalions by diverting the attention of the droids and if needed, assist in the evacuation of civilians. Stay close, and be mindful of your surroundings," his Master explained.
Edric nodded, his resolve solidifying. "I understand, Master."
"I hope you understand it better than last time," Master Asher added, reminding him of their previous mission.
"Yes, Master," Edric replied with a scowl, feeling his cheeks burn. Why does he have to keep bringing that up? It was an honest mistake and no harm was done in the end. Well, not counting his own fragile ego. "I'll make sure to double-check the map this time before sending anyone on a scenic tour of a war zone."
Master Asher gave him a stern look, but Edric could see the hint of amusement in his eyes.
As their ship moved into position, a clone trooper designated CT-7321, who preferred his nickname Zel, approached them with a salute.
"Generals," he nodded. Edric flinched; the title sounded like ill-fitting armor on a boy thrust into war. Truth be told, he was not technically a general as a Padawan, but his mature looks often deceived others. The clone continued, "We're ready to deploy on your command."
The Jedi Master acknowledged the trooper with a slight bow. "Thank you, Zel. No time to waste, the people of Tarnos are counting on us," he said. His Master put a hand on Edric's broad shoulders, holding him up for a second.
"I can see you are even more restless than usual, Edric. What's going on?" Kael asked, gesturing for Edric to start moving while they talked.
"I'm not sure, Master. It's not here and now… I'm not entirely sure what it is. We've been to battles before, yet this feels different?" Edric admitted, struggling to articulate his feelings. Kael remained silent as they walked towards the elevator, allowing himself time to consider his student's words. As they stepped into the turbolift, Kael turned to him again.
"You should be mindful of the future, but not let your mind be clouded by it. It is natural to have anxiety, but as Jedi, you need to learn to let those feelings go. Focus on the present, one step at a time. Like pushing that button," he said, pointing to the control panel. Edric couldn't help but stifle a chuckle before pressing the button. His thoughts felt momentarily clear, though a nagging voice still remained, whispering of impending danger. It could no longer be silenced.
"See, it's not that hard," Master Asher said with a reassuring smile. Edric shrugged. To him, it felt hard; easier said than done. His connection with the Living Force felt more tenuous than his peers', despite his relentless efforts.
He said, "I'm trying–"
"Don't try," his Master cut in.
"–there is no try, I know! That does not help in this moment, Master."
As they arrived at the hangar, the clones escorted them to their designated LAAT gunship. The deck of the hangar shook as similar transports and fighters alike departed into battle. Aboard the prepared vessel, troopers were putting on their helmets and dropping the last of the supply boxes. When they noticed the approaching Jedi, they all broke into salutes.
"At ease," Master Asher's voice echoed, Edric following closely on his right. The gunship roared to life, its engines vibrating through Edric's body as he gripped the overhead handle with sweaty palms. The clone troopers around him checked their equipment with practiced efficiency, their faces hidden behind expressionless helmets. Some had adorned their armor with symbols and custom markings, giving them a sense of individuality amidst the uniformity. The sight was both comforting and disconcerting; these soldiers were bred for war in a way Edric was not. One trooper noticed the Padawan's gaze.
"Don't worry, sir, we've got your back," the trooper said with a firm nod, raising his rifle. Edric forced a weak smile and returned a slight bow in gratitude. He had met many clones in the past few years, and despite their uniforms and identical faces, they all carried a sense of unique spice. They all knew their job and did their best even if they didn't agree with certain things. Maybe he should just concentrate on doing his best too and that would be enough.
Kael Asher stood beside him like a statue, calm and composed, his green lightsaber clipped securely to his belt. Edric tried to mirror his Master's tranquility, but the turbulence of the ship's descent and the anticipation of the impending battle made it difficult. He let out an impatient sigh and glanced toward the cockpit watching Tarnos grow larger and larger. The vibrant greens were marred by smoke and fire from the conflict. Explosions and laser fire lit up the clouds like a raging thunderstorm.
The shuttle jolted as it entered the planet's atmosphere, buffeted by anti-aircraft fire. The clone pilot announced their approach to the drop zone and that it would be a "bumpy one". Edric felt his heart in his throat as he prepared for the fight ahead. His mind felt clearer as the LAAT broke through the clouds, adrenaline pumping through his veins as they closed on the landing zone. He told himself he trained for situations like this and it was another opportunity to show his worth. Not just to Master Asher, but to himself. His thoughts drifted to his time honing his skills, all the sweat and pain he endured alongside the sour taste of disappointment from defeats in sparring matches against other younglings. Those setbacks gave him the fire in his chest that drove him forward, that put one leg after the other and guided his lightsaber.
As they neared the surface, the sounds of war grew louder, more immediate. The gunship's side doors opened, and the smell of burning vegetation and scorched metal filled the cabin with the wind. Edric felt the heat and pressure change, his senses on high alert as if a switch had been flipped. In a large valley with a towering mountain range nearby, Edric glimpsed Tarnos' flourishing greenery and modern architecture, now patched with scorched ground and buildings reduced to rubble.
Their landing zone was in the middle of the destruction, what would have been just the edges of a forest nearby on a patch of burned farmland. He glanced at Master Asher one last time, seeking reassurance, and received a firm nod in return. Trust in the Force, he thought, repeating his Master's teachings. The clones positioned themselves at the doors, ready to leap into action. A dust cloud rose as the LAAT descended and slowed.
"Jump, now!" the pilot yelled.
With their yellow and green lightsabers ignited, Edric and Master Asher leaped from the gunship, followed closely by the clone troopers. They spread out to form a perimeter a few dozen meters from the ship. The moment the feet of the last clones touched the scorched grass, a missile hit the LAAT's engines. The ship exploded in a fireball, and the shockwave sent most of the group sprawling to the ground.
Edric managed to catch his balance in time, grounding himself in the soil and raising an arm to shield his face from flying debris. He felt a searing heat on his back and realized his outer robe had caught fire from the explosion. In haste, he shrugged off the burning fabric and threw it to the ground, stamping it out. Now clad only in his navy blue sleeveless Jedi tunic, he felt more exposed but also more mobile. A cool breeze against his skin was a stark contrast to the heat of the battle, sending a shiver through his body.
"Form up!" Master Asher commanded, his voice cutting through the fight. The remaining troopers regrouped around the Jedi, their rifles at the ready.
Before they could fully assess their situation or discuss their strategy, a series of heavy thuds echoed through the smoke-filled air. Edric's eyes widened as he recognized the ominous silhouettes of B2 super battle droids emerging from the haze, their red photoreceptors cutting through the dust cloud. He could almost hear the mechanical whirring of their movements, a chilling reminder these were not caring creatures. Not like it would make much difference, he thought.
"Ambush!" a clone shouted, raising his blaster and firing at the approaching droids. The initial volley of blaster fire was met with a barrage of laser bolts from the B2 droids, their wrist cannons lighting up the battlefield. The air crackled with energy, and the smell of burnt ozone intensified as the firefight escalated.
Edric deflected several incoming bolts with his lightsaber, his movements quick and precise. He tried to position himself close to his Master's right while keeping the clones behind him safe from the droid fire. The sheer power of the B2's attacks forced them to remain on the defensive. He saw a trooper fall on the right, struck by a direct hit. His cry of pain cut through the noise, pulling Edric into the brutal reality of the battle.
"Edric, on me!" Master Asher called out at the perfect moment. Edric leaped forward and caught up to his mentor. The two Jedi moved in unison, weaving through the battlefield with well-oiled practice. Kael slashed through a droid's torso, his green blade cutting effortlessly through the thick armor. Edric followed his lead, driving his yellow lightsaber into the chest of another B2, the droid's circuitry sparking and failing. Reality seemed to slow down around him, the sounds, and the sights happening at a fraction of what they should be. The Force was around them. But it still wasn't with him.
Despite their efforts, the droids' numbers were slowly, but surely overwhelming them. The clones fought valiantly, but the heavy firepower of the B2s was taking its toll every second. Edric saw another trooper fall, clutching his side where a blaster bolt had burned through his armor. He kept shooting with one arm to keep the cover fire up for the Jedi and his comrades. Just as a B2 droid aimed its cannon at the young Padawan, a precise shot from the same injured clone trooper hit its head, causing it to collapse. Edric looked back and realized it was the clone who told him not to worry on the LAAT.
"Told you we've got your back," he gasped, his voice strained. The Padawan gave a quick nod of thanks before refocusing on the skirmish.
"We're getting overrun!" another clone shouted, his voice filled with desperation. Edric couldn't help but feel the same way. This felt more like a meat grinder than a proper battle with strategy and actual chances. How could the Republic or the Jedi Council allow this to happen? Their reconnaissance must have been wrong, that could be the only answer to this. Right?
"Hold the line!" Master Asher urged, his voice steady but strained. "We need to hold until more reinforcements arrive!"
Edric gritted his teeth as he parried and counterattacked, each movement a testament to his training. Yet, for every droid they destroyed, it seemed three more took its place. Dark tendrils of smoke curled around his thoughts, growing stronger and threatening to break his focus. He could feel the fear and tension in the air, his connection to the Force amplifying the emotions around him. Beads of sweat and unruly hair blurred his vision, fanning the flames of his frustration. It got harder to ignore the voice in his head that kept telling him they were going to fail. The relentless advance of the droids felt like an unstoppable tide, pushing them back step by step.
Just when the situation seemed hopeless, a distant rumble grew louder. The ground shook slightly, and the unmistakable sound of approaching reinforcements filled the air. Edric's muscles relaxed as Republic gunships and walkers appeared on the horizon, their weapons blazing. The LAATs dropped more troopers and lifted off again to fly off to their next objective.
"Yes! The cavalry's here!" a clone exclaimed, renewed determination in his voice. Edric could sense the soldier was on his last straw, just like himself. Thank the Force!
As the reinforcements engaged the droids, Edric and their squad took advantage of the distraction to push forward. The tide was slowly turning in their favor. The boy's movements became more fluid, his strikes more precise, as he drew strength from the arrival of their allies. His earlier doubts faded in the face of their renewed assault, and he moved almost one with the Force, maybe like a true Jedi, oblivious to how he was drifting away from his Master.
Their respite was short-lived. A sudden shiver ran down Edric's spine as the Force whispered a late warning. His breath caught, and his skin turned cold as a chilling realization gripped him. Hope shattered like glass as shadows cast on their unit. A squad of Vulture droids swooped in, releasing a barrage of concussion missiles. Explosions rocked the battlefield, sending debris flying and creating shockwaves that knocked soldiers and droids off their feet.
Edric's momentary confidence dissolved. The overwhelming void returned, gripping his heart as the chaos intensified once more. This is it, he thought. That premonition he felt on their journey, suddenly was no longer distant. It was right then and there. He braced himself against the ground, trying to regain his footing amidst the devastation.
A sudden tremor coursed through him, spinning him around. His eyes locked onto his Master. Edric watched from a distance as a missile hit the ground beside Master Asher. The blast threw his mentor violently through the air like a ragdoll, and he landed hard on the ground, motionless. "Master!" Edric shouted, his voice barely audible over the deafening roars of the destruction around them.
Their bond in the Force flickered like a dying flame. The Padawan's breaths came in shallow, frantic gasps. His hands trembled uncontrollably, and cold sweat slicked his palms, and for a moment, the battlefield seemed to shrink away, leaving only the sight of Kael's crumpled form.
"Master!" Edric screamed again, his voice breaking with desperation. The young Padawan's veins froze, then burned as he ran towards Kael, his thoughts a frantic jumble of worry and fear.
His legs felt heavy, each step a monumental effort as if the planet itself was trying to hold him back. His mind raced with a flood of memories and lessons from his Master. Edric's vision tunneled, focusing solely on reaching Kael, the man who had been his guide and protector. He couldn't have cared less that it was not Jedi-like.
But before he could reach him, a shockwave slammed into Edric and sent him sprawling backwards. The force of the blast rattled his bones, and he hit the earth hard, the impact jarring every sense. His vision blurred and darkened. As he struggled to push himself up, the sounds of blaster fire and explosions faded into a distant echo.
He looked back at his Master, trying to reach a hand out toward him. Edric's heart thudded, his connection to the Force blinking like a candle in the wind as darkness took hold and he passed out.
**Author's note**
Thanks for reading my story! If you have 5 mins, please leave a review, so I can improve my writing. Thank you!