Star Wars: Gamer Madness Chapter 5: Jedi Youngling I, a star wars fanfic

~~~(POV: Ryan Sunrider)~~~

I wrap my arms around Satele's form as we fly through Coruscant. Leaning my head on her shoulder and watching the passing speeders and transport vehicles. I feel Satele's hand run up and down my back, helping me feel more comfortable.

The spires and skyscrapers of Coruscant lullingly pass by, helping me enter a relaxed state. I'm stressed; no point in denying it.

'There were several moments where I made the wrong choice. The first was thinking I could control when and how I entered the Jedi Order.'

My plan was to join the Jedi from the beginning after I reached a certain age. I was thinking 9 or 10, and when the Sacking of Coruscant was over. I know that my odds of dying have increased severalfold. A part of me thinks the Force is trying to get rid of me.

'That, or test me. To see if I really belong…'

The Force is described in many ways, and all of them have valid points. None of them can answer my questions and concerns, though.

You're half right; the Force is testing you. However, it's not trying to get rid of you.

While the Force won't try to get rid of you, since you weren't in the original plans, you'll be constantly tested.

'I don't find that very reassuring…'

Of all the concerns on my mind, the only one that's taking dominance over the others is surviving the Sacking of Coruscant and the Sith assault on the Jedi Temple.

My thoughts about the matter are halted as a new quest makes itself known, and it's not like the ones I've gotten so far. Not even close.

Quest Alert!

The Sacking of Coruscant

Survive and escape or repel the Sith when the attack begins in the year 0 BTC

Rating: S**

Objective: Survive and escape or repel the Sith Empire's assault on Coruscant and, by extension, the Jedi Temple.

Bonus: ?

Rewards:

25,000 XP

Penalties:

Probably loss of limbs

Possible Death

Automatically Accepted.

'Automatically accepted once again. I would cringe if I had the finer control over my facial muscles to do so. This is the hardest and most rewarding quest I've seen. Seeing the Difficulty gives me chills.'

My mind immediately goes to what I need to do to prepare. While I don't know much about the training process and what it entails for Jedi Younglings, I do know that training starts almost immediately.

From the little I remember, when a Jedi Youngling is either old enough or able to walk and speak, they're placed in a clan. After that, I believe training begins. For that part, I'll just have to find out. There is a simple truth if I want to survive this quest.

However, that's not for certain. I didn't research much about Jedi Younglings and their lives growing up in the Temple.

'If I'm to survive the Sacking of Coruscant, I'll need to be as strong as I can. Even though I'll only be 7 cycles when the sacking starts, I need to be strong enough to at least survive and escape.'

While repelling the attack on Coruscant by the Sith Empire is an option and, therefore, possible, even if it's remote. That's not the route I'm going.

At the conclusion of my thought, a new quest appears. Blocking the passing buildings slightly with it's transparent features.

Quest Alert!

I Refuse To Die [User Defined]

Become powerful enough to survive and escape the Sacking of Coruscant

Rating: S

Objective: Raise the 6 Jedi lightsaber forms to Professional 175, and increase your repertoire of Force Skills to a total amount of 20.

Bonus: ?

Rewards:

12,500 XP

Penalties:

All lightsaber forms locked at their finished level for 10 years.

All Force Skills locked at their finished level for 10 years.

Accept?

Y/N

'My second user-defined quest, and one that makes the last one I did look like cheesecake. When I started this life, I said I'll take on any challenege.'

I meant what I said.

'Yes, I accept.'

The quest disappears, and I'm left thinking and wondering what's in store for me at the Jedi Temple. Sure, I'm worried about what's to come, but I won't let that stop me from making friends and enjoying my life at the Temple while I can.

Suddenly, the speeder we're using makes a turn, and we come out through some buildings. I lift my head, noticing it's a familiar scene. I remember what the area around the Jedi Temple and Senate looked like on Coruscant.

Once my head is lifted, I see the massive and beautiful Jedi Temple in the distance.

"Master Shan, Masters Gnost-Dural, and Orgus Din wish to speak with you. Shall I take over care of the child when we arrive?"

One of the Jedi in the transport speeder turns his head and body from the console, looking back at the two of us. Satele releases a small sigh and looks at me after a second of thought. Meeting her look is the sapphire blue eyes that I selected during character creation.

I give a smile and reach my hand up, touching her own smiling lips as I do. Acting as a cute baby goes a long way with a lot of people. Including Jedi.

She gently grabs my hand and holds onto it as we descend toward the Temple.

"Tell them I'll join them once I hand this one over to the Jedi Fosterers. I've brought him this far, and I'll make sure to finish the delivery."

The Jedi simply nods his head and types something into the console. There is a lot that I don't know about the inner workings of the Jedi. Not to mention other facts about Star Wars. Mostly because they were never discussed or brought up in the Lore.

Once the speeder lands in one of the Jedi hangers, Satele carries me out in her arms. As we're traveling through the Jedi Temple, I can't help looking around in wonder.

As I do, I get a surprise.

Warning!

Entering Force Nexus!

Jedi Temple of Coruscant

This nexus grants a 25% XP boost to all Force Powers

The surprise is one that'll help me in my quest to power up my Force Skills. It was said many times in the Lore that the temple on Coruscant was built on a Force Nexus.

'In my old life, it was always a fantasy to be a Jedi and live at the Temple… To be a part of the monk-like Order. While I don't agree with what the Jedi became during Anakin's era, that doesn't mean I don't like what they are now.'

After a while of traveling through multiple hallways and down different corridors. Satele stops in front of a massive pair of doors. This must be where the Jedi Fosterers are.

Satele doesn't say or do anything, only waiting. A few seconds pass, and the large doors open. A Jedi walks out and makes her way to us.

"This must be the new arrival."

Her voice is calm and even, all the while holding a certain level of care. Satele looks at me for a moment, smiling one last time before handing me over to the Jedi Fosterer.

"Yes, this is Youngling Sunrider. I hope this addition doesn't add too much to your already large workload, Master Tirana."

The Jedi, known as Tirana, holds me close in her arms. However, not in the same way that Satele did. She takes a look at me and gives a simple grin.

"Worry not, Master Shan. He'll fit right in."

Satele looks at me one last time before looking at Tirana, and she lowers her head in a bow. The woman holding me does the same. I watch as Satele turns and starts walking away, and Master Tirana soon does the same. Only with me in her arms.

As we're walking down the relatively small hallway, I feel her thumb caress my back. In an effort to get on her good side, I lean into her shoulder and relax.

"My, aren't you a trusting one!"

She lets out a small laugh and doesn't hesitate to hold me closer this time. As we're walking down the hall, we come to a set of doors. We enter through one and then enter a large chamber. Several different doors are in here.

In Galactic Basic, there are age ranges plastered above the doors. All of them are different, and on the left, it starts with the age of 1 and under. After that, there is another door to the right of it; above it are the numbers 2-4. And on the last door to the right of that one are numbers 5-8.

"Welcome to the Jedi Crèche."

The Jedi Crèche? I can't say I know about this place. She starts walking to the door labeled for the ages of 1, and as the door opens. I see the room is filled with small cribs and toddlers around my age.

I see another woman tending to a child before turning her eyes in our direction.

"Another one, huh? The Force is blessing us with so many new Younglings. The other care facilities in the Crèche are starting to fill up as well."

Other locations? Meaning this area in the Crèche isn't the only place for Jedi Younglings. Just how many are there?

'Well, considering the amount of clans there are, it makes sense there are a lot of Younglings. I'm actually looking forward to finding out how all this works. I didn't know it in my old life.'

Master Tirana brings me to an open crib and gently places me on the soft fabric. The other woman makes her way over and looks at me, too.

"He's very strong in the Force, Master Tirana… I've never felt anything like it before…"

My eyes bounce between the two of them, and I give them a bright smile. The newer lady reaches down and gently rubs my belly.

Master Tirana folds her arms slightly, thinking of a response.

"Yes, he is. Master Shan is the one who brought him. What do you think's in store for him, Master Darsina? The Force wouldn't bless someone with such strength without a purpose."

So her name is Darsina. The names of Star Wars aren't what I'm used to, despite my normal human name compared to the ones on Earth. Goes to prove I'm really in a different universe.

"Only the Force knows that. I've got it from here, Master Tirana. I believe Masters Baek and Rodaa were needing your assistance with something."

Before the woman turns and leaves, I use Observe on her.

Rana Tirana

Race: Human

Level: 36

Health: 100%

Age: 25

Force Potential: High

M-Count: 14,000

Threat Potential: None

Reputation: Neutral

Affiliation Loyalty: Order of the Jedi (100%) The Galactic Republic (95%)

Emotional State: Curious/Interested

Tirana just felt a small wave of Force energy over her, and she felt it come from you.

Tirana is interested in why and how that happened.

'Umm…'

Tirana turns around and looks at me, a curious raise to her eyebrows. Darsina looks at Tirana with concern at the sudden change of demeanor.

"Did you just feel that?"

This isn't good! I had no idea that Force-sensitives could sense when I used Observe on them! The only one I've used it on has been my mom, and she's not Force-sensitive!

'Shit! Did I just give myself away!?'

The two female Jedi share a look with one another, but there isn't suspicion or questioning within the looks.

"No, what did you feel?"

I'm really hoping I'm not discovered here. So far, no one has been able to find out how smart or how conscious I really am. I believe that's thanks to Player's Mind. But stupid little mistakes like this are what screwed me in my old life!

"The Youngling just used the Force on me… He's already quite talented. Children his age don't usually use the Force in creative ways yet. He shows great promise."

'Whew! I'm off the hook! They just think I'm exploring and experiencing the Force like others my age would.'

Darsina takes a once-over of me at Tirana's explanation, and she adopts a thoughtful expression.

Tirana eventually turns around and makes her exit, leaving me with the Jedi known as Darsina. After a moment of inspecting my body and changing my clothes.

Something extremely humiliating about having my clothes changed for me. But I've gotten used to it, thanks to Sarina. Once I'm in fresh, Jedi-approved toddlerwear. She takes out a datapad and slowly scans my body. Taking a look at the results for a few minutes.

She leans over the crib after putting the datapad to the side. Her green eyes stare into my sapphire blue ones.

"You're all healthy, Youngling. Now, you're probably hungry, aren't you?"

Her form lifts from the crib and picks up the datapad again. Pressing a few buttons as she does. A couple of seconds later, a service droid comes out. I take a look at what he's carrying, and it's some baby formula.

Seeing that is making me miss Sarina, and yes, I know that's weird. But before I was taken by the Jedi, I had begun the weaning process, much to my delight.

Darsina lifts me out of the crib and brings the bottle to my lips. I don't waste a second and start eating. I'm pretty hungry as is. She starts to gently rock me from side to side, and I find myself getting a bit drowsy. As much as I want to stay awake and think about some things, I can't fight off the sleep.

My eyes close, and darkness takes over. And I slip into sleep.

~~~(POV: Sarina Sunrider)~~~

BEEP!

…

CRASH!

I pick up the alarm clock and throw it against the wall. But even if I'd want to go back to sleep now, I can't. My eyes open, and I stare at the ceiling. That alarm was for me to start getting ready for the day with Ryan.

Now he's at the Jedi Temple, and I don't know if I'll ever see him again. It's not long before I'm crying in my bed again. He was taken yesterday, and it's been hell for me since he left. I'd rather get spaced than give him up like I did.

If I could go back and change my decision, I would. But that's just me wanting my baby boy back. In the back of my head, I know he's going to get the training and treatment needed for his abilities in the Force.

I roll to the side, and waiting for me is one of Ryan's onesie shirts. My hand coils around it, and I bring it to my nose. His scent is still all over his clothes and room. As I remember him, my tears and cries of pain only get worse.

'I wish you were here… I don't know what to do now…'

I have a meeting at the Senate building today… The only thing I can think of to take my mind off the terrible reality I've found myself in is to do my job as a Senator.

It takes me a moment to muster all of my strength, but as I do, I get out of bed and make my way to my closet. Getting out of my clothes and getting dressed in a formal Senatorial dress. I stand in front of the mirror and see myself.

The condition I'm in. My once tan and beautiful face is half dead and pale. Bags are under my eyes, and red irritation lines my pupils.

'Be strong, Sarina… You have a duty to your people.'

While I feel like my life is over, knowing that my son is safe and protected brings me a little more comfort. I can't imagine anything dangerous happening at the Jedi Temple.

As I finish getting ready and hiding the zombie I've become under makeup, I leave my apartment building and enter a Senatorial speeder. Taking me to the Senate building. It takes a few minutes, but I eventually make it to my place of work.

Once inside the atrium, I see many of my fellow Senators walking and speaking to one another. I make my way over to the elevator and enter the floor I wish to go to.

"Time for talks of war…"

Exiting one hell for another…

What has my life become…

~~~(POV: Ryan Sunrider)~~~

SLAP!

I watch as one of my fellow toddlers slaps another one with an open hand. I'm sitting at the corner of the playmat and watching as the children around my age continue to entertain themselves. It's been following the same daily routine for 3 months now.

In that amount of time, I've been training the 5 Force Powers I've got. Thankfully, the Jedi don't discourage Younglings my age from using the Force. So, I've been able to train in Telekinesis as well. It's the only Force Skill in the Alter discipline that I've got.

My other 4 Force powers are all related to the Sense and Control disciplines of Force Skills. So, there is no outward showing of me using my abilities.

"What am I going to do with you two…"

I watch as Darsina stands up and pulls the two toddlers who are fighting apart.

'I feel bad for the Jedi Fosterers…'

I can't help an internal chuckle at the struggles they're going through with other kids. Since I've got the time and no interruptions for the next hour. Checking my progress again seems like a dandy idea.

'List Force Powers.'

Altus Sopor

Adept 165

This is the fundamental power that all Force-sensitives learn at some point.

Increases your focus on the Force and enhances your Force powers.

All Force powers cost 11.5% less FP

Costs 150 FP

Force Serenity (Trance)

Professional 101

While in this state, your meditation bonuses improve, helping you recover much faster.

You also stop your need to eat and sleep for days at a time.

Currently grants an additional 32.25% bonus to meditation and self-healing.

Costs 180FP

Telekinesis

Adept 101

The ability to push, pull, and levitate objects or block objects in motion so long as their mass is within your power range.

At higher levels, this can grant self-levitation.

Currently, lift objects up to 2725kg in mass.

Costs 398 FP +28 FP/s

Precognition

Novice 75

This is an offensive ability that allows you to sense oncoming attacks. The Force will warn you. Make sure to react.

Costs 303 FP +19 FP/s

Force Sense (Danger Sense)

Adept 96

The ability to sense the feelings of others using the Force and using the Force to see briefly into the future.

Sense incoming danger from the Force.

Costs 316 FP +23 FP/s

'It's pretty decent progress, but I know that I won't start really impacting the I Refuse To Die quest until I begin my lightsaber training. Right now, I'm just waiting until I'm old enough to start training.'

Another thing that I'm looking forward to is increasing my physical and knowledge-based Skill lists up. Right now, it hasn't changed all that much. I have gained a new skills.

'List Physical Skills.'

Physical Skills

Athletics
Novice 30

Swimming
Novice 62

Walking
Novice 20

Compared to before, I'm now able to walk. Albeit, not all that well or for a long period of time. The body of a toddler is hard to control, but I'm able to walk around unassisted.

As 1 year and a little over 3 months old.

'It'll be easier for me to unlock and use more skills as I get older. For now, this is all I'm able to do. When I turn 2, I should be moved out of the toddler area and moved into a new area. Along with the toddlers in this room. That's when our formal training will begin.'

I found out a few days after I arrived here that the moment I was placed in the toddler room with these guys, I was assigned to a clan.

I'm in the Heliost Clan. And I'll be with these kids until I'm selected as a Padawan. When I learned that from the multiple conversations I've overheard, I was glad I got the answers I was looking for. I know a lot about Star Wars, but not everything.

That was something new I learned.

'It looks like the rowdiness is starting to get a little out of hand. Darsina's gonna cut play time off.'

I see the exasperated look on Darsina's features, and she presses a few buttons on the datapad on the desk next to her. After a few seconds, droids enter the room and begin collecting the toddlers. I don't resist and allow myself to be taken back to my crib.

Once inside, I watch as the other toddlers struggle and get upset. However, after around 30 minutes, everything calms down. In fact, almost all the toddlers are sleeping.

Seeing this as my chance, I lean up in my crib and look in the direction of Darsina. Recently, I've just started being able to speak. However, I can only do one word at a time. I didn't unlock a skill for it since I already have the language unlocked. Carried over from my past life.

All I had to do was wait until I was old enough to be able to physically speak.

"Dary!"

I can't fully say Darsina's name, so I shortened it. The woman lifts her head from the datapad she's reading and looks in my direction. A smile forms on her lips, and she stands up, making her way to me.

Once at my crib, she leans against it slightly and lowers her form. Making it where we're almost eye to eye.

"My, my little Ryan. Someone's finally able to talk. What is it you need, Youngling?"

Her voice is soft and low so as not to wake up any of the other kids.

"Food."

I stretch out my arms in a flamboyant way to emphasize and exaggerate my request. Giving a bright smile as I do, my teeth being shown off in a little kid's smile. A small giggle comes from the woman, and she places her hand on my head.

"Now, you just had some food a little over an hour ago. Are you still hungry?"

Yes, I am. Walking around unassisted with my low STAM means it drains quickly! My hunger level needs to be refilled before I start getting cranky. No matter what age you are, if you haven't eaten, your mood sours.

The nodding of my head confirms the answer to her question. She lets out a small sigh and lifts her hand from my head. She uses the Force to lift a plate of already prepared food, and she brings it over. Once in her hands, she turns back to me.

"Alright, Youngling. Open up."

She uses the fork to pierce the food and brings it up to my lips. I obey her order and open my mouth. Receiving the food. Darsina has developed a look when she's with me. One that I've seen many times on my mom's face and a little on Satele's face when I was briefly with her.

I can feel it. The Force Bond that we've developed. It's the first one that I'm aware of; I'm almost sure I have one with mom, too. But I can't feel it the same way I do with Darsina.

"You'll be growing the biggest out of your clan since you eat your vegetables."

The care in her voice isn't hidden and in response to her. I give another toothy smile, this time with green vegetables between my growing teeth.

"Hahaha!"

She makes sure not to laugh too loud; waking the other toddlers isn't a good idea.

I'm glad that Darsina is the one I have taking care of my clan for the time being. Once most of us reach two or three years old, we'll be moved away from here. Our training begins as it happens. Most of the kids in this room are within the range of 11 months with each other.

Some are a little older. Meaning they'll have to wait for their younger clan members before they can move on. I'm amongst the group of younger ones.

But the way that time has been moving, I doubt it'll be all that long before the shift happens.

'I'm gonna miss Darsina… Just like I miss mom…'

She reaches up her hand and uses her thumb to wipe some of the vegetables hanging from the corner of my mouth.

Looking at me the same way mom used to when she cleaned my face.

~~~(POV: Hanare Darsina)~~~

My eyes look down at the sleeping body of Ryan. It's hard to believe that 3 months have already passed. There are times that I Force Bond with certain Younglings during their time under my care. That's not the same as the bond I've struck with Ryan.

I can't explain it, but he's someone that I've come to care for more than I'm willing to admit. It's against the Jedi Code to form attachments. With Ryan, it was so easy. He wasn't like the other toddlers. He's behaved and well-tempered.

In all the hours under my care, not once has he thrown a fit or gotten upset. He's just been a bright ball of happiness.

'It's hard not to grow to care about him.'

However, with the kids sleeping for the night, it's time that I get a break from all this work myself. I need some time around adults, and Rana said there was a meeting discussing the next batch of Padawans.

The Initiate Trials are coming up, and various Masters and Knights are returning to the Temple—the ones who can be spared from their duties to the war. I don't see a reason not to; it'd be nice to see some of the Order's future in action.

I stand up from my chair and make my way to the exit. Making my way out of the Crèche and walking to the door leading to the wider Temple. The kids inside behind me will stay within the Crèche for quite a while, and when they move on to training, they won't be allowed to leave the Temple.

Knowing that some of them might not become Padawans makes me a little depressed, but it's not like everyone can be a Jedi.

'Time to think about something else.'

Since I've got this time off, I'm planning to spend it with my fellow Jedi Knights and Masters. I can't remember the last time I got a chance to do something like this.

Being around adults after such a long time is a nice welcome.

It takes around 10 minutes to reach the Youngling training grounds, but as I reach the observation platform, I'm greeted by some of my fellow Masters. Amongst them are Orgus Din and Gnost-Dural.

"My, how long has it been, Master Darsina? The last time I saw you was before I left for Balmorra around two years ago."

On my approach, Master Din recants the last time we had a conversation. I join the sides of the Masters and Knights, overlooking the current class being trained.

"Far too long, Master Din. This war has spread the Jedi thin and apart. Those of us who are remaining at the Temple are fortunate enough for many of you to return to select Padawan's after the Initiate Trials."

My response gains some of the silence of my fellow Jedi. Before the Great War started, the Jedi didn't know what war and battle was like for over 300 years. Then, we're suddenly thrust back into it. Master Gnost-Dural steps forward and stands next to me.

Running his hand across his metal rebreather.

"I hold the same sentiment, Darsina. This war has taken the Jedi from their home here. The truth is the Sith Empire is winning this war. I don't know how much longer the Republic can hold out. We may only have a few years before the Republic sees its end."

I lean forward against the stone railing. The Younglings match the movements and velocities of the teacher.

My worry for the future of the Order lies down there and where I just came from. If there isn't an end to this terrible war, it'll be the end of the Jedi. The Sith won't stop until we're nothing but extinct, and the galaxy is ruled by darkness.

"What are we going to do about the Gathering? Ilum is still under the control of the Sith, and it's not like we have crystals on hand for the lightsabers these Younglings will carry. The last time the Gathering took place was when I was a Padawan, and I'm almost 26 cycles."

The question I ask stems from one that comes from a place many Jedi hold sorrow and pain for. After the Senate rejected the plan for an offensive to retake Ilum, we lost our primary source for Adegan Crystals. The power source of all Jedi lightsabers.

Not to mention a sacred and cherished tradition we've had since near the beginning of the Jedi Order. Right before the Empire attacked, I had just completed my own journey with the tradition of the Gathering.

Now, none of the Jedi following my generation will likely know the important ceremony.

"As much as Ilum means to us, we have enough crystals here at the Temple for the foreseeable future. However, I understand where you're coming from, Darsina. A lightsaber isn't the same without searching for the crystal on Ilum."

Master Gnost-Dural's voice takes on a more solemn tone as silence overtakes the group. So much has changed for the Jedi since this war started. And with the direction it's heading, the fate of the Jedi is uncertain.

My thoughts return to the Heliost Clan that's been under my care. The idea of those innocent children being born just to be prepared and trained for war… It doesn't sit well with me.

It's not right.

"Do any of you wonder if what we're doing for the Republic is the best course of action… When the Sith Empire returned, we didn't even try other options. We just jumped straight into war. That's not the Jedi way…"

The words that leave my lips are an expression of my deep thoughts and not so much a question for those present here with me. I turn around from the training grounds and lean my body against the stone railing.

My vision is filled with Knights and Masters thinking on my words, some sharing looks with each other. After a few seconds, Master Din steps forward and places his hand on my shoulder.

"You're a great Jedi, Darsina. In any other situation, I'd agree with you. After seeing the carnage, brutality, and cruelty of the Sith. I can tell you now they had no interest in talking. And I don't think they ever will. This is the age-old struggle of the light against the dark."

The tired features of Master Din take on a soft form. Displaying that he's also grown tired of the conflict.

I've fought Sith before, and Orgus is right with his thoughts on the Sith. Growing up in times of peace has made this war hard on me. May the Force guide the ones that follow my generation.

They'll need it.

~~~(POV: Ryan Sunrider)~~~

A planet of metal and stone

Fire and death all around

The desperation of love

Bodies liter the ground

The sky full of ships

From the rubble

New light

New dark

A beginning

An end

Coldness grips the galaxy

Tightly

Giving birth to instability

A child of long history

A mother of great duty

A master of great wisdom

A friend with loyalty

An enemy of cunning

The power deep within

A storm

The shift has begun

IT HAS BEGUN!

The scene assaults me repeatedly, echoing in my mind and starting over. My consciousness returning to me. Sweat covers my body as my eyes open. Panic consumes my body, and I lean up in my crib.

"Ahhh!"

Smaller objects around the room fly around. Hitting walls and other kids in my clan. Waking others up from their own deep sleep and causing the room to erupt into a frenzy.

Deep gasps of air enter and exit my lungs. I curl up in a ball and sink my face into my knees. The sound of the world washes away, and silence finds me. As I lift only my eyes from the safety of my legs, I see a new Force Power has been unlocked.

Force Power Discovered!

Vision

An ability many of the Jedi have, often happening at random times. Revealing possible events or futures to the person.

Only experienced Masters of the Force can look into the future at will.

It's extremely difficult to upgrade this skill.

Costs 4575 FP +275 FP/s

Novice 1

The information disappears with the interface, and my attention returns to the chaos happening in the room. Several Jedi Fosterers are present, along with nanny droids, to help settle down the children.

After a few seconds, sound returns to the world for me, and that's when I hear the racing of my heart in my ears. I scan the room over and over, and after a second, I see Darsina making her way to me. Once she reaches my crib, she picks me up in her arms.

I'm not crying or screaming as the other toddlers are. In an effort to feel better from what I just experienced, I lean my head against Darsina's shoulder. Holding onto her neck tightly as she rubs my back. Carrying me from the room.

Once outside of the chaos, she slows down. Taking her time walking down the hall. Once we reach the end, she turns around again. I don't keep track of the time or how long pacing up and down the hall goes for, but it's helping me.

I've experienced the Force in a new way today…

"Are you feeling better now?"

Darsina stops in the middle of the hall and pulls us apart. She asks me a question and looks into my eyes, waiting for me to speak.

I've gotten better at speaking in the last 4 months ever since I spoke my first words to her. Thinking about her feeding me those vegetables makes me a little happier.

"I'm okay… Just a nightmare…"

My childlike and innocent voice is still one I'm not used to. She simply smiles and brings me back into her form. Since I've started using the Force, I've noticed something. When I feel emotions, Player's Mind doesn't work the way its description says.

'Why isn't it working…'

What I just went through was one of the most intense emotional rollercoasters I've been on. While the description says that it doesn't stop outward emotional responses, it's supposed to immediately dissipate them after I start feeling the emotion.

I don't understand why this is happening lately… The only thing I can see as an answer is the Force. Somehow, it's doing something.

Player's Mind will allow you to think things through calmly and logically. Along with Immunity to certain effects. It, however, doesn't prevent you from showing outward emotional responses.

Your conclusion about the Force interfering with Player's Mind emotional control is accurate. Powerful emotions will cause reactions through the Force, just like any other Force-sensitive.

The Force is largely entered and exited in an emotional state.

Therefore, even Player's Mind will have difficulty stopping certain emotions. Especially powerful ones connected to the Force.

'Then what's the point of Player's Mind… Well, what I'm reading makes sense. Player's Mind has plenty of uses still, and now I can't help wondering what else the Force is interfering with regarding the interface…"

After a few more minutes, Darsina brings me back to the room and to my crib. Gently placing me down and leaving the room once I get comfortable.

'List Force Powers.'

FORCE POWERS

CONTROL

Serenity (Trance)
Master 16

SENSE

Altus Sopor
Professional 285

Force Sense (Danger Sense)
Adept 185

Precognition
Novice 95

Vision
Novice 1

ALTER

Telekinesis
Adept 133

Now that my mind is clear again, I can think straight. As nice as it is to have another Force Skill, Vision isn't an ability I'm gonna use a lot. Still, that's progress toward one of my quests. I have a total of 6 Force Skills now, meaning I only need 14 more before I have the second half of the quest done.

The lightsaber half isn't something I won't have done for several years, but luckily, I have that amount of time.

'It's hard to believe that I've come this far since I've been born. I'm 19 months old now, and my first year at the Jedi Order is coming to a close.'

A little after I'm 2 years old, my clan and I will be moved out of the toddler room and put into one with actual beds. I don't know what it'll look like, but I'm excited. That's when lightsaber, historical, Force abilities, and Jedi study will begin.

Being in the Star Wars universe will give me more information than I ever learned from the Lore in my previous life.

'My second year of life can't come soon enough. A little over 4 months left if you count the days still remaining in this month.'

The passage of all this time has me thinking of mom… I wonder how she's doing…

Remembering the Vision and words I heard, there was a line about a mother.

My mother.

Who else could it be… Sometimes, I wish I could talk to her, even though I'm an adult in my head. That doesn't mean I don't miss or love Sarina.

It's against the Jedi code to have attachments, and it's against the rules for Jedi to contact their family.

All of a sudden, I'm given a quest.

Quest Alert!
Momma's Boy [User Defined]
Contact Sarina before your 4th birthday and not get caught doing so
Rating: C
Objective: Find a way to contact your mom
Bonus: ?
Bonus: ?
Bonus: ?
Rewards:
1000XP
Penalties:
Significantly harder time getting into contact with Sarina before you're a Jedi Knight
Accept:
Y/N?

Ugh, really? Momma's Boy? Dicks.

"Yes."

My voice comes out way cuter than I ever want to sound. I make sure it's a whisper not to wake anyone up.

Not only will I be getting rewards for contacting mom, but it's also a relatively easy quest compared to any I've gotten so far. However, I can't really start it until I'm older than 2 cycles. That'll give me almost 2 years to do this, and that should be enough time.

The interface is soon gone, and silence falls on me.

I lay my head down against the soft pillow and take a small breath. When we move out of these cribs and start training together. A lot of my clanmates will start becoming friends.

I'm looking forward to that.

Making actual friends.

Something I didn't really have in my old life.

Quest Alert!
Not A Lonely Little Boy [User Defined]
Make some friends
Rating: E
Objective: Before the Sacking of Coruscant, reach the Liked or Trusted level of Reputation, and once this is done, reach the Friend or Confidant level of Friendship with 2 of your fellow Younglings
Bonus: ?
Bonus: ?
Rewards:
800 XP
Penalties:
Moderately harder to increase Reputation and Friendship levels with your Clanmates
Accept:
Y/N

Out of nowhere, I'm suddenly given another quest.

This time, the title of the quest is more depressing than humiliating.

I'm not gonna say no to easy XP. I'm glad more and more quests are starting to pop up. Now, I can make some progress with my level.

"Yes."

My voice is whispery again, and the interface disappears as I say that. I stare up at the ceiling of the room, and think for a moment. Mostly about quests. Depending on my desires and thoughts, more quests will be generated.

I already knew this function existed, but in the past, nothing had really appeared. So I can't explain the sudden influx.

All I can really attribute it to is my getting older.

Tomorrow, I'll keep training the Force Powers I've got. Not a single reason for me to slow down has occurred.

~~~(POV: Hanare Darsina)~~~

The rising sun on Coruscant rinses the High Council Chambers in a yellowish-orange glow. The Council members who are present are Orgus Din, Gnost Dural, Syo Bakarn, and Tol Braga. Sadly, the rest of the Jedi High Council can't attend due to their duties to the war.

There are two reasons for this meeting and why I, a non-Council member, have been called to it. The first is to discuss the Great War that we're in the middle of fighting. After the discussion about the war is over, we're to talk about the Younglings who are starting training soon.

"Master Darsina, since there are so many open chairs for this Council meeting, feel free to take one. There is no need for you to stand since this will be a discussion at length."

Master Gnost-Dural waves his arm in the direction of the seat next to his, emphasizing that I should take a seat. I make my way over and, for the first time in my life, sit in one of the High Council member's chairs.

"Thank you, Master Gnost-Dural. I appreciate the invite, but should I be present for the discussion regarding the war? While I'm a Jedi Master, I'm not a member of this Council."

Normally, only members of the High Council are allowed to sit here and discuss subjects of concern. Since I'm not a member of the Council, it's highly irregular for me to be here for this.

"Yes, it's quite alright, Master Darsina. What we're discussing today actually pertains to knowledge that you have."

Master Din is the one to answer my question instead of Master Gnost-Dural. That means my experience with the Younglings and their progress so far under my care will be discussed in relation to the Great War. It's not a thought I like, but we need to talk about it.

Silence takes over Council chambers, and after a few seconds, Master Tol Braga lifts the datapad at his side. Pressing a few buttons and lowering the shades. Causing it to darken the room.

Soon, everyone except for me is on a datapad. But it doesn't last long. The eyes of every Master turn to the center of the room as multiple holograms appear.

All of them are different worlds, and each one is currently in the middle of conflict.

"We've lost two key worlds in the Mid and Outer rims. Malastare in the Mid rim and Elom in the Outer rim. While Elom was going to fall sooner or later, Malastare was a devastating loss. Without their fuel, our efforts in the Mid rim and beyond are going to come to a screeching halt."

The two planets of discussion are brought to the forefront by Master Gnost-Dural. I knew the war was going poorly, but I never thought it was this bad.

The conversation about which worlds were lost continues for around two hours. The worst part about this is there was no discussion about planets we had taken back from the Empire.

Right now, they're continuing to push deeper into the Core. I don't know how many years we can hold out, but I doubt it'll be that long before the Core is invaded. The shades around the room rise, allowing the light to return to the Council chambers.

"The simple truth is, we need more Jedi. Which is why you're here, Master Darsina."

Master Bakarn is the first to speak after that depressing report. After seeing that, I'm glad that I'm not officially on the High Council. It's hard to believe the Sith Empire has made so much progress in recent years.

"While we know the Younglings of Heliost Clan and others are too young to even begin training in lightsaber and Force abilities, we need to discuss how their training will proceed once they're moved from the toddler room."

He's talking about how they'll be trained going forward. The vast majority of Jedi fighting in the war come from an age of peace, not knowing about war and conflict. The generations under my care and other Fosterers will be the first ones with no experience or memories of peacetime.

"The simple fact remains. We can't beat the Sith Empire without Jedi trained to defeat Sith. This is why I want to implement a new training plan."

Silence falls on the Council chambers as Master Bakarn finishes speaking. As much as I don't want to change how Jedi are raised, we don't have much of a choice. The war and Sith Empire continued to press forward without much resistance.

My thoughts unintentionally drift to Ryan. I've grown to care a great deal for the child, and soon, he'll be old enough to fight. The years are passing by quickly.

"You're setting a dangerous precedent, Master Bakarn. Jedi haven't been trained for war since the Old Sith Wars. However, considering the circumstances, there's not like there isn't a reason to."

Master Din slowly speaks in response to Bakarn's proposal for change. After a few hours of discussion, the topic shifted to one that I had not expected.

"I wish to speak on certain Younglings. More specifically, Youngling Sunrider."

While we're talking about Younglings in a general sense, I didn't think this conversation would turn to one of specific children. Master Bakarn leans back in his chair and releases a sigh at the topic he's just brought up.

He doesn't like the idea of talking about a single child either, but many in the Order have sensed Ryan. About how he's getting stronger despite being less than 2 cycles.

"Master Darsina, you've spent the most amount of time with Sunrider. Can you tell us what you've noticed?"

Master Gnost-Dural continues that conversation. Instead of answering immediately, I lean back in the chair I'm borrowing today. Taking a breath and thinking about what I've seen from Ryan. He's certainly different from his fellow Younglings.

While I've been teaching the kids to read and write in Basic, along with Jedi fundamental thinking. Ryan soaks up knowledge, unlike anyone I've seen before. He's much more intelligent than his clanmates. Not only that, he has far better control over his emotions for his age.

"Where do I even start…"

There is a heavy silence in the Council chambers. After a moment, I decide where to start.

"I believe that Ryan has a minimum Genius-level intellect. He learns at a far faster and greater rate than anyone in his age group. Not only does he have tremendous emotional control, under my care and other Jedi Fosterers, he's not once cried, thrown a fit, or conflicted with another his age."

The Masters in the chamber take moments to look at each. Processing the information I've just shared. His unusual behavior for someone his age is what sticks out the most. Even with young children showing high intelligence, they still lack finer control over their emotions at the age Ryan's at.

I don't really know how to describe it. Most of what I've seen tells me Ryan controls everything someone his age shouldn't be able to control.

Yet he does.

"Putting aside all of that, he's shown a connection to the Force I've never seen before. While children his age are capable of using the Force and minor Telekinesis, Ryan actively controls it."

I've watched him for hours lifting things around him and moving objects around the room. Doing it off his own willpower.

"On several occasions, I've watched him use Telekinesis that someone his age shouldn't be able to do. Either he has a high natural affinity to it, or his intelligence is affecting his use of the Force."

Many of the Council members' looks change to those of concern. In the end, it depends on how you look at it. Ryan will be a powerful Jedi against the growing Sith Empire. The only problem is lasting long enough to finish his training.

"While this report on young Sunrider is concerning, we should be thankful the Force has given someone such ability. It might have something to do with being a part of the Sunrider family, but from what I remember, his mother isn't Force-sensitive."

Master Bakarn slowly and methodically speaks. He brings up a thought I've had many times. We still don't know what determines someone's Force-sensitivity. While members of Jedi families show sensitivity to the Force, more often than not, it's not a guarantee.

There are examples today of such circumstances.

"I'd like to bring up another topic."

I breathe a mental sigh of relief as Master Din decides to shift the topic. He lifts his datapad, and a hologram shows the entrance of the Jedi Temple. Since the sun has risen high enough, there isn't a need to close the blinds now.

"The support our Order has for the war has drastically fallen, and not just with the Senate."

Another tough obstacle our Order is facing is the massive loss of support we're getting in the war. Many are blaming the Jedi, and our failures aren't making it easier on us.

"I think there needs to be a serious consideration to move the Order away from Coruscant."

That wasn't something I expected to hear. Everyone's eyes turn from the hologram and at Master Din. Trying to find out what's making him consider leaving our home for thousands of years.

My question would be, where to go? It's not like we have another Temple the same size as the one on Coruscant. The facilities, the quality, and the upkeep would all become much more difficult at a different location.

"As much as I dislike the idea, Master Din, you bring up a valid point."

Master Tol Braga voices his support for the idea. It's hard to believe we may have to leave our home… I grew up in the Temple of Coruscant.

It's my home…

The responsibilities of a Jedi High Council member aren't something I want.

This story is released to public sites like on the 15th and 25th. On my (P)-(a)-(t)-(r)-(e)-(o)-(n) page, this story is released with new updates on the 5th and 10th of every month.

Please, really consider checking out my (P)-(a)-(t)-(r)-(e)-(o)-(n). I have other works there that aren't just this.

(P)-(a)-(t)-(r)-(e)-(o)-(n) /easyread

If you want to read ahead, go here. There are 8 chapters here.