~~~(POV: Jun Seros)~~~
The sounds of training lightsabers bounce off the walls and fill the room. The Younglings trying to improve their forms of Shii-Cho and show they're making progress to me. It's been six months since Boma and Heliost Clans have started their training.
There are always standouts and those who progress faster than others. Before the war with the Empire, classes between 2 clans would range between 60 and 90 Younglings, but that amount has considerably shortened.
I'm doing the best I can with the new training regiment the High Council has approved. Preparing the Younglings for eventual combat and battle against the Empire and the Sith that rule it is a considerable leap in Jedi teachings. In the end, they listened to reason.
If we're to win this war against the Sith, we'll need to prepare our youngest for the truth. Traditional Jedi teachings have been holding us back, and now with our backs against the wall, we're changing our approach.
It was my idea to change the Younglings' training and teachings. However, the High Council signed off on it. The Council of First Knowledge is the real mastermind behind the new training methods. All Younglings and their training fall under their purview.
My eyes drift between the most promising Younglings of the two clans, and I can sense great potential in many of them.
While I silently observe the Younglings, Master Bakarn makes his way to me from the entrance to the Dojo. He regularly checks in with all the teachers responsible for the training of the Boma and Heliost Clan. After reaching me, he stands next to my left shoulder.
Looking at the many training Younglings around the very large Dojo as he stops. It's a little after sunrise, so training has just started for today. We've been training these Younglings harder than any since the time of Revan and the Mandalorian Wars.
"Greetings, my old friend. I've just received word that our forces in the Mid Rim have stopped the progress of the Empire for the time being."
The tone in Bakarn's voice tells me he's unconvinced the Jedi will be able to hold them off for long.
It's not like the war is waiting for these ones to be ready. The Empire is coming, regardless. Our eternal foe has progressed to the deep Mid Rim in the last 6 months, but we've found ways to slow them down—for how long, I don't know.
"But I highly doubt we'll be able to hold them back for long. The Sith are relentless in their goals to dominate the galaxy and destroy the Jedi."
Syo finishes his opening to our conversation. It seems like my friend is getting older each day, and the stress of the war is starting to show up. Although he's young, there are signs of age beginning to creep onto his features. As the Battlemaster of the Order, I can understand.
"The High Council was wise to approve of my idea. It's the only way we'll win this war in the end. The Council of First Knowledge has devised an excellent training plan, but I worry that we're overworking the Younglings. Almost half of them aren't even 3 cycles old yet."
Of course, I'm glad that we're creating future solutions for the Sith. However, I've never seen Jedi Younglings push so hard. Some are adapting to the situations excellently, others are struggling with the difficulty. In truth, this is all our fault.
Future generations of Jedi will suffer for our failures to stop the Sith Empire. Now, they'll have to be the ones to correct our mistakes.
"While your suggestion initially didn't please the High Council, it's the best course of action. They'll be fine in your capable hands, Master Seros. You've been an excellent teacher. While they're young age is slightly concerning with the training they're doing. It's the only option we have left."
Bakarn was one of the few Jedi Councilors who actively pushed for my change to the training of the Jedi Younglings. Without him, I doubt the change would've happened. He's a forward-thinking Jedi, and we need more like him. Here's to hoping that the future Jedi that succeeds us will be wiser than those who've brought us to this point. All I can do is try to prepare them.
"How are the Younglings progressing, anyway? While reports from Chi-han and Dessix are helpful, it's not like everything goes into a report, especially for Younglings who're proving to be more advanced than others their age."
As the question leaves Bakarn, I fold my arms and think about the Younglings who've come the furthest since training started 6 months ago. He knows about some of them, but it's not like all of them grow at the same rate. I've been doing my best to cater to the training demands of all, but I've been considering bringing on other teachers.
The regular names come to mind.
Younglings Roka Sedé and Kason Haadé have been progressing at an advanced rate. One that shows they'll be great Jedi when their training under a Master is complete. There is also Youngling Rasana Voréa, she's made great leaps in the last 2 months.
"The same ones from the last time you asked me are still proving they're growing at a good rate. Aside from the usuals, there are three more in Elesire Bàrren, Kara Veenà, and Carden Barsovs. Elesire and Kara are looking at Roka and Rasana as role models. While Carden's competitiveness with Kason shines into his training."
The clans are showing promising signs of great students. Bakarn and I watch the Younglings in question as they train using Shii-Cho. It'll be a while before any of the ones I mentioned are ready for advanced training; progress for a Jedi usually takes years.
However, there is always an outliner from the Younglings. Every generation, there are those who grow to become the strongest amongst our Order.
"And from your silence regarding Ryan, I take it he's continued to show… Concerning rates of growth…"
A small sigh escapes my lips as the topic of Ryan comes up. Not only is the Youngling in question one I talk about with Bakarn on frequent occasions but he's often discussed by the Council of First Knowledge.
I often have to make progress reports about the Youngling's training to the Council of First Knowledge, and Ryan is a longer discussion than any of the other Younglings. His abilities are far more advanced than anyone in his age bracket. The speed he develops is turning heads.
"What's there to tell? He's the most advanced Shii-Cho student I've ever seen for someone his age. He's reached a point in his Form I training where he no longer needs instructions from a teacher and can learn it on his own if he so wishes."
That's the simple truth. His lightsaber training is progressing at a rate that outpaces the rest of the clans. I've been considering the idea of taking his training to the next level and beginning Form II, Makashi.
"Chi-han's lessons with the Younglings and their foundational Force Powers have continued to develop Ryan at an accelerated rate. Far beyond the others. Her reports about Ryan are sparking debate with the Council of First Knowledge."
Ryan actively seeks out extra lessons and training, despite the incredible training load the Younglings are already under. I don't know where he gets the energy, but I can only sum it up to him being special.
It's like Ryan is thirsty and desperate for more power, and seeing that in someone so young has been a cause of debate and concern. Aside from his lightsaber abilities and his growth rate, there is something of greater importance.
His connection to the Force and the speed at which he learns and develops Force Powers. Amongst the Order, he has the strongest and most potent connection to the Force out of anyone. You can feel the difference between him and anyone else.
"Seros, many in the Order are growing wary of young Sunrider. Every time I see Ryan, I can feel him becoming stronger. It's almost absurd the amount he's progressing. I'm not the only one who senses his power and participates in this debate."
Bakarn brings up the point of discussion I've been involved in on multiple occasions. I'm on the side of letting Ryan progress as much as he can, but it's not up to me.
It's up to the Council of First Knowledge.
"I know, my friend. I know."
My words are solemn and slow.
It's truly unbelievable, really. If my connection to the Force is described as looking at a lake, then Ryan's connection should be described as an endless ocean.
His potential is limitless.
The truly frightening thing about Ryan is how easily and quickly he develops anything related to actively or passively using the Force.
Eventually, he'll be at a level where training with his fellow Younglings will only hinder him. When that time comes, I believe it'll spark the final debate about what to do with him. Until then, he'll be where he's at now.
Training with his fellow Younglings.
"His destiny is unknown to me. To everyone in the Order. It's shrouded from us. Whatever the Force has in store for him, I can say it's greater than you or me."
Bakarn speaks slowly as he releases a small sigh at the end of his observation. The two of us watch as he easily and almost lazily deflects the blaster bolts being fired at him by the Marksman droid. Soon, the training session will ramp up, and warm-ups will be done.
My friend takes another breath but doesn't release it. Walking away after a few seconds and leaves me to watch the practice velocities and training of the Younglings myself.
'Young Sunrider… Your destiny is hidden from us, but I know it's a great one. I'll do all I can to prepare you and your fellow Younglings. But it's inevitable you'll lose those important to you. The Jedi way prepares you for much, but not watching lifelong friends die in battle.'
I worry for the future of these children… Born with a gift, only to have to use it against others… It's a fate not many are strong enough to burden themselves with.
'How will you react when you lose those people… Will you rise… Or will you fall…'
Being a part of a Jedi family comes with many gifts, but it seems it also comes with a burden for the young Sunrider.
Great… and terrible potential.
~~~(POV: Ryan Sunrider)~~~
Blaster bolts from the Marksman droid are sent away from me with great precision and focus. The sounds of the bolts bouncing off the training lightsaber are drawing some attention from my fellow Younglings. Shii-Cho has been a true delight to learn about since the lessons started 6 months ago.
It's an understatement to say that I'm simply ahead of the rest I'm training with every day. Overtime in my training with Shii-Cho, my abilities to sense and use the Force have increased. All with the help of the lightsaber form. Add that to my many XP boosts and advantages for getting stronger, and it makes sense why I'm far ahead of the people I've gotten to know in the last 6 months.
The Marksman droid shuts down after I finish the warm-up program. As my specific droid ascends into its hole in the ceiling, I look around the room. There are certain Younglings who are doing quite well in my opinion, but there are also others who are struggling.
Since I have free time, checking on my progress since the last time I did is a good idea. It hasn't been long, but long enough for some changes to have occurred.
'List Lightsaber Forms.'
Lightsaber Forms
Form I: Shii-Cho
Master 166
Having passed Professional 175, you can self-study Form I.
It's the only lightsaber form I have, but it's come a very long way in 6 months. Seeing this kind of progress in such a short amount of time has proven to me that my user-defined quest, I Refuse To Die, is a quest I can complete.
I've also gained 2 new Force Powers to help with the quest: Mind Trick and Tutaminis. They're basic abilities Jedi Younglings learn, which I didn't know at the time. Mind Trick is at Adept 45, and Tutaminis, which I've spent more time on, is at Professional 145.
Aside from the lightsaber forms and the 2 new Force Powers I've gained, I've gone through other changes. My favorite is the change to Lightsaber [Standard].
'List Weapon Styles.'
Weapon Styles
Lightsaber [Standard]
Master 128
Increased XP gained by 23.75% with lightsaber forms using the standard variant.
When my training in the other lightsaber forms begins, this is an XP boost that greatly affects it, and I've come to greatly appreciate it. I've come to see that my circumstances as a Player or Gamer have brought me great potential in this new life.
While the safety and protection of the Temple have helped me grow, it won't last. Not with the Sacking of Coruscant looming over my head in the future.
Of course, every Skill I have has undergone some changes. I've also unlocked quite a few Skills specific to Star Wars and the technology that lies within it, specifically Technical Skills. In this section, I've unlocked 2 new skills. All of them are ones I picked up trying to help me with the quest Momma's Boy. However, at this rate, I doubt I'll be able to complete the quest.
The three new skills I've acquired are Computer [Electronics] and Computer [Slicing]. The current level of the skills is high Adept; however, the security of the Jedi Temple is far beyond what I can do with what I've learned. I'll need more time.
It sucks I won't be able to get ahold of Sarina by my 4th birthday and fail the quest. But it's not like I can succeed at everything. When I'm Knighted or a teenager, I think it'll be much easier for me to get into contact with her.
Aside from these, my Force Powers have become much stronger. The only one that hasn't leveled up is Vision since I haven't spent any time using it.
'List Force Powers.'
FORCE POWERS
CONTROL
Curato Salva
Master 131
Serenity (Trance)
Savant 101
Tutaminis
Professional 145
SENSE
Altus Sopor
Master 418
Force Sense (Danger Sense)Master 235
Precognition
Master 398
Vision
Novice 1
ALTER
Telekinesis
Professional 255
MIND
Mind Trick
Adept 45
From this list alone. It's easy to see why I'm so much stronger than the rest of the Younglings in my age group. I would doubt there are many older kids who aren't Padawans yet who are as strong as me. I'm only 2 and a half years old at this point, and I've got nowhere to go but up.
My growth has been drawing the attention of older Jedi. While only a few have had conversations with me, it's not like they want to bring up a topic of deep thought with a child that's 2 cycles.
"Argh! No matter what I do, I can't keep up!"
The voice of Qel sprouts up next to me. The Marksman droid he's working with spins around and starts the warm-up program over since he failed. Whenever you receive more than two hits during the training program, it starts over.
Master Seros doesn't proceed to lessons until all the Marksman droids in the room are gone. So, the last one left is usually faced with some embarrassment. It's not always Qel, but he's a frequent person who is last. He rushes to keep up with me, but in the end, it's countering his progress.
"How are you so good with a lightsaber already!? Everyone started out on the same level, but somehow you're so much further ahead than me. It's frustrating. Ryan, give me a hand here. What's your secret?"
As I listen to Qel, a small smile forms on my lips. I've made decent progress with the quest Not A Lonely Little Boy. Qel is the third highest in terms of Relationship and Reputation. Rasana and Roka are ahead of him. I spend more time with those two than anyone, but Qel hangs out with us during free time.
"It might just be that Shii-Cho isn't for you, Qel. While it is the foundational form of lightsaber techniques, it's not like you need complete and total mastery of it. There are 5 other Jedi forms for you to learn. Shii-Cho is important because it teaches us to deflect blaster bolts."
A slightly irritated look takes form on Qel, but nothing like anger. It's not like I can really give advice, either. I'm not a teacher. When learning lightsaber forms or Force Powers, it's like it comes naturally. That's the only way I can describe it.
He turns his attention back to the Marksman droid as the training program starts again. As he works on that, my attention is grabbed by the tap on my shoulder.
The person who's there to greet me is Rasana Voréa. Or simply Rasa, as she prefers to be called.
"Finished first again, huh?"
There is more condescension in her voice than a child of 2 should have. The corner of her lips turns slowly into a smile, and soon it's all teeth as she beams at me. A small chuckle does leave my lips. Rasa stands next to me as we both watch Qel. Adding pressure to his performance.
"It's not about finishing first for me, Rasa. It's about completing the training and improving. The speed I do so at doesn't make a difference to me."
The words that leave me are leveled and controlled; however, in the voice of a small child, they come out more… Cute? Then I want them too. While I'm not looking forward to puberty again in the future, I can't say I'm fond of being a small child.
My response to her earlier jab with words comes now as we see Qel focus on sending the bolts away. He's doing better this time, and I can tell he'll get it this time around.
"Tell that to Kason. He's constantly trying to one-up you. Roka is the only one who comes even a little close when it comes to keeping up with you. I'm doing my best, but seeing you two progress like this is a bit disheartening."
Conversations between children between the ages of 2 and 3 aren't usually this sophisticated or deep, but given our constant training and education, we're able to have such discussions. While they may not always understand, it's still nice to talk with people who don't look at me like a child.
Being a man reborn and growing up again is still something I'm bugged by, but not like I was before. Besides, it's not like it's going to last forever.
"Youngling Haadé is free to look at me as an opponent. If it helps him, then good."
It's not hard to remember everyone around me right now is a child. I don't hold what they say or do against them. They'll eventually grow out of anything they're in, and the Jedi will make sure of it. So I'm not worried about Kason. I hope he does get stronger. It makes our war against the Sith all the more plausible to win.
While I know the Jedi eventually win, the Old Republic game never reached the point of a winner or loser in the story. So, I only have knowledge up to a certain point, and after that, I'm on my own.
"That's a kind thing to say about someone who doesn't like you, Ryan."
The voice of my other friend makes an appearance. I look over my opposite shoulder from Rasa, and that's when Roka approaches. She seems to have just finished, too. It looks like Rasa beat her time today, but I don't think either of them cares about that.
As children, they see only one person doing the best. Everyone is timing themselves against me and not each other. I don't mind, but it brings a lot more attention than I want it to.
"He's always like this. I don't know where he gets the patience. While Kason is part of our clan, he's become very mean and annoying since we started training with Heliost Clan."
Rasa responds to Roka before I do. Not seeing a need to speak now, I simply watch as Qel finishes the last of the warm-up. Once he does, a huge toothy smile appears on his features as he turns to us. He's not last this time, not even close.
He's finished near the top today but still came behind some others aside from Roka and Rasa. He makes his way over as the Marksman droid leaves and immediately locks eyes with Rasa and Roka.
"I would appreciate it if you guys didn't distract me next time. You guys made me almost fail the warm-up again. When we start sparring in about 10 minutes, don't expect me to go easy on you."
While I usually look forward to sparring, it's not really beneficial when I don't have someone to push me. We'll be training our Shii-Cho for the whole morning. I'm looking forward to Force training today. Chi-han said we'd be learning a new Force Power today.
I'm looking forward to it. Once I get it, I'll be halfway done with my goal of getting 20 different Force Skills. I have a total of 9 right now, which is pretty good for my first year under Jedi care. By the time I'm 7 cycles, and the Sacking of Coruscant starts, I'll have more than enough.
"If you can't deflect blaster fire while people are talking next to you, how do you expect to do that in the middle of a battle?"
Roka's question to Qel silences him, and causes a small frown of realization to form on him. He knows what Roka says is true. Most of us are aware of the responsibility on us. That we're about to be a part of the largest galactic conflict since the Old Sith Wars.
The Togruta's words and response have taken a bit of life out of the two, but that's soon ended as the last of the warm-ups are completed, and Master Seros starts walking to the elevated dueling platform to give us instructions for today.
I'm enjoying my new life as a Jedi, but I know the long road ahead of me. It's not a sprint, it's a marathon. And I'm preparing for it.
We enter the room we always use when undergoing training for our Force Powers with Chi-han. Most of my fellow Younglings are tired, sore, and hungry. As usual, we'll be having food after our training session with Chi-han.
Until then, it's time for a new lesson. I slowly make my way to an open spot, and Qel takes an open seat next to me. The other is filled with a member of the Boma Clan.
All our heads are pointing in the same direction as we stare at Master Chi-han. A calm and graceful smile is on her features. It's impossible to tell her age. She has a slight greying of hair at the sections around her ears, but she still looks 20 to 30 years old.
I haven't used Observe on any of the Jedi Masters aside from Syo Bakarn when I was in a huge group of people. It's not wise to reveal such power, and I was fortunate enough for that opportunity. Chi-han would know it's me since I've spent so much time with her.
"Today, Younglings, we'll be learning a very important Force Power called Force Empathy or just Empathy. This Force Power will enable you to pick up impressions of an individual's feelings, general emotional state, and possible actions."
Another incredibly important and versatile Force Power.
"However, you'll also be learning Prima Vitae, also known as Life Detection. The reason you're learning these two specific Force Powers is their connection to one another. It's important to know where your adversaries are and what they're feeling or thinking."
I didn't expect that! We're learning 2 new Force Powers, and they're ones I don't have yet. Since I pick up on Force Powers so fast, it shouldn't take me long. However, we usually spend a few weeks practicing these abilities before learning new ones.
Having to wait for others to advance is something I frequently have to do. But it does not come with only drawbacks. It's given me time to work on other Force Powers, as I'm waiting for the rest. So that's been a great benefit.
"For the next several weeks, we'll be working on these abilities. They're incredibly important during your life as a Jedi. They'll be techniques you use every single day and in every interaction you have with someone."
It's nice to see that I'm getting something I can really use to help me in the future. Everything I've gotten so far has been really good, but this will help with pretty much every person I deal with in the future. Observe only does so much.
With these Force Powers at higher levels, it can help find out things Observe can't. My thoughts about the sudden development are finished as Chi-han sits down in a meditative position, taking easy and steady breaths. After a second, she opens her eyes, looking at the group and preparing to speak.
"Empathy is a basic, fundamental function of civilized society. A large majority of higher intelligent life you find around the galaxy will have Empathy. It's key to the formation of civilization since it enables sympathy and cooperation."
Chi-han is an amazing teacher for a child my age. With my adult mind stuck in this body, it's hard for me to change a lot of my thinking from my past life. She's opened my eyes to certain things that I had never considered before.
"Force Empathy or just Empathy will guide you to understand and comprehend what your allies, adversaries, and fellow Jedi are feeling. You can learn a person's motivations, masked feelings, and even their most treasured secrets."
My attention is fully on Chi-han as her eyes slowly scan the room, making sure everyone is paying attention, which we all are.
"What I want all of you to do is close your eyes and take a breath."
Knowing what's to come, I do as she orders. Closing my eyes and sinking myself into the Force. As I do, I can feel the power and ever-presence of the Force. Flowing through and binding me to it.
"Allow yourself to become one with the Force. Use the meditation techniques we've used to help you. Once you feel your connection to the Force strengthens, try sensing the feelings of those around you. Interpret their thoughts and emotions with the Force."
Her words guide me as they always have. I sense all the Force signatures of my fellow Younglings in the room. I focus on Qel. Using the Force to feel and comprehend what he's feeling or thinking.
After a second, the interface notifies me. But instead of opening my eyes to see, I continue trying to feel what Qel is thinking or feeling. What I sense from my fellow Youngling is shame and fear, all stemming from his lack of ability.
Not able to understand why he's falling behind or why he's stuck where he's at while others continue to grow. Confusion and uncertainty are hidden deep within him. Scared, the Jedi will see his weakness and deem him unworthy of being a Jedi.
I open my eyes with an almost jolting shock as I pull myself out of the Force. Taking small breaths as I try to wrap my head around this entirely new and foreign feeling. I've never used the Force in such a manner, and it's so much different than what I've experienced so far.
Now that my eyes are open, I see the notification that I ignored earlier. And it's exactly what I thought it would be.
However, there is a warning attached to it.
New Force Power Discovered!
Empathy
Force empathy is a Force power related to the Force Sense discipline. It involves picking up impressions of an individual's feelings and general emotional state. Force-sensitives who were especially adept at it could pick up motivations, hidden feelings, and even deeply guarded secrets.
Force Power Level-Up! X35
Novice 35
WARNING:
You have a natural affinity to this Force Power. All XP gains for this Force Power are increased by 50%
Congratulations! You discovered the first Force Power you have a natural affinity and strong connection too!
WARNING:
There are more Force Powers you have a natural affinity too. It's up to you to discover them.
I knew there were Jedi and Sith who had natural powers or stronger connections to certain Force Powers throughout the history of Star Wars. I suspected that it was possible for me to have such connections. Now, I know for certain I do.
Everyone else is still struggling due to Empathy's complex nature. It's in a unique category of Force Powers we haven't had to learn yet.
After looking around a few times, my eyes land on Chi-han. She's watching me intently, a small smile on her lips as she gives me a small nod. I guess she sensed what I did to Qel, understanding that I succeeded in my first attempt at Force Empathy.
A few minutes pass, and seeing that no more Younglings are getting this in the first lesson like me, Chi-han decides to move on to the next Force Power we're learning today. Our eyes and attention are on her as she takes a breath to start speaking again.
"Now, Prima Vitae, also known as Life Detection, is a key Force ability for all Jedi. It allows us to sense other lifeforms in the vicinity. Sense if our allies or adversaries are dying or damaged. It's a way of using the Force to see the galaxy as the Force does."
It's slightly confusing by her description, but it's not like the Force is something that isn't confusing. Even back in my life on Earth, so many things changed about it all the time. So many things were up to interpretation.
Maybe this is just Chi-han's way of interpreting Prima Vitae. Not all Jedi and Sith agree on what Force Powers do and what their purpose or function is.
Aside from a few exclusive ones like Force Lightning.
"Just like before, I want all of you to close your eyes. Use the Force to feel the individual life signatures of those around you. Feel how healthy they are. If they're sick or sore. Or do they need food or water?"
She explains what we should be searching for as all of us close our eyes and try. As I do, I spread my senses through the Force and hone in on the Younglings around me. Taking a breath as I do.
Using the Force, I try to sense if they're injured or sore. Using my intentions and channeling them into the Force, I'm able to sense that everyone around me is hungry and tired. They're ready for a break. I can see them even with my eyes closed.
It's like looking at green and blue lights shining in the middle of darkened figures. It's a completely different thing than sensing someone's Force signature.
The sound of the interface going off pulls me from my dive into the Force. I open my eyes to see a new Force Power. However, this time, there is no special connection or warning attached to it.
New Force Power Discovered!
Prima Vitae
A basic Force Power falling in the Sense category that allows a Force-sensitive to feel the presence of living things and beings and detect their positions at long-range.
Also, allows them to sense their relative strength, condition, and alignment in the Force.
Force Power Level-Up! X8
Novice 8
As I take my attention off the newly acquired Force Power, I look around and see there aren't as many people struggling with this as they were with Empathy. It's definitely a different way to use the Force. I look back at Chi-han and see that she's typing something into a datapad.
It's likely class notes. She's meticulous about that. It's how we all progress at a relatively similar pace. She's making sure that all Younglings are getting the attention they need.
After a few minutes, she stands up and starts walking around the room, going to individual students and helping them with the process of whatever they need help with. While she's doing that, I take this time to continue training the two new Force Powers.
They're going to be very handy when it's time to start my training under a Jedi Master or Knight. After a few hours, we eventually finish our training with Chi-han and make our way to the Refectory. The place we eat after our morning training is finished.
After our large meals, all of us make our way to the Archives to begin our lessons with Dessix's for today. While it's the least physically and Force demanding part of our schedule, that doesn't mean it's not useful.
I quite like it.
~~~(POV: Sarina Sunrider)~~~
It's been almost two and a half years to the day since Ryan disappeared from my life. But now, things are getting better. Especially this last year. I walk through the door to Ryan's old bedroom and to the same crib that he once slept in every night.
Looking down, I see my baby girl. It's been five days since she was born. I never thought I'd have another child after Ryan. The truth is, I didn't think I'd want one. Then I met Adern, and he helped heal me from my pain. A few months after meeting, we got married.
And then I found out I was pregnant with this one.
Yvettani Aldoravina-Sunrider.
Adern insisted she take both our last names since we're married, but didn't take each other's last names. I reach down into the crib and gently run my finger across her cheek. She's sleeping silently and without a worry in the world.
The door behind me opens, and Adern walks through. Walking up behind me and wrapping his arm gently around my torso.
Adern isn't necessarily a tall man. We're actually almost the same height. He's got around two inches on me, and I'm 5'6.
His chin rests on my shoulder, and he looks down at our baby girl from behind us.
"It's hard to believe she's here already… It felt like yesterday you told me you were pregnant…"
The last year of my life has been one of my best, thanks to the new family I have. I'm grateful that Adern and Yvettani have pulled me from the dark place I was in when Ryan was taken. I still think about my son every single day, but it doesn't hurt as much as it used to.
"Yeah, I wish time would slow down just a bit so I can spend more time with her. Every passing second is another I'm not getting back with her."
There are many layers and meanings to my words. In the back of my head, I'm afraid Yvetta will be Force sensitive like Ryan was. During my pregnancy with Yvetta, she didn't move anything with the Force. And since she's been out, she hasn't shown any signs of being connected to the Force.
The day Ryan was taken from me is still the worst day of my life, and the thought of that happening to Yvetta keeps me up at night. There is no way for a normal person like me to tell if she's Force sensitive or not. I'm left constantly wondering if a Jedi will knock on my door again to take her away.
"I know what happened to Ryan still deeply hurts you, but I won't let Yvetta be taken by the Jedi. That's my promise to you. We don't know if she has a connection to the Force, but if it turns out she does. I'll make sure nothing happens."
Adern has always done an amazing job as a husband and father. There are a lot of things I had to open myself up about him too. One of my deepest fears when we first started dating was him not believing me about Ryan.
The truth about Ryan's conception is a mystery to me. I never talked about it to anybody and never discussed it out loud with myself. When I learned I was pregnant with Ryan, I was dumbfounded because I hadn't had relations with a man for almost 7 months at that point.
Ryan doesn't have an actual father.
"I know, Adern… I know…"
Last time, I gave the Jedi… Satele… Permission to take Ryan, but that's been the biggest regret of my life. I won't make the same mistake again.
I don't know what or who decides is Force sensitive, but I curse the person or being who decided Ryan was. His conception and birth were miraculous, and his powers even more so.
Maybe, this time, I won't have to give up my child.
~~~(POV: The First Son)~~~
The room darkens in my private apartment away from the Jedi Temple. Bakarn is making great strides in the Jedi Order, and it's time I report what's happening to the Emperor.
It's unfortunate I have to share a body with Bakarn, but I do what's required of me for the Emperor and his Empire. After a few seconds, the terminal in the center of the room lights up. Making a secure connection straight to the Emperor's Fortress.
Who I see is my Master and Emperor.
My father.
"First Son… I take it my plans for pushing into the Mid-Rim any further won't be hindered. After all, you've promised the rest of my children are well in place, as I've instructed them to be."
I lower my head first before responding, showing my respect and subjection to him. After a brief moment of silence, I pull out a datapad. Sending him information regarding the Jedi's plans in the upcoming campaign.
"The Children of the Emperor are all in place. Ready to begin sabotaging the Republic's forces. Bakarn has proven capable of ascending the Jedi rankings. I'm privy to everything the High Council is doing. I've made the necessary adjustments to the plans."
In the end, the success or failure of the Children of the Emperor is up to me. My fate and life depend on whether or not I can bring the Republic and Jedi to their knees. It'll be a long process and not something I can do in the course of a decade.
Although my plans are in motion, I won't see the results for my grander design until the time comes. When it does, we'll be dealing a blow to the Jedi they'll never recover from.
"Do not fail me, First Son. The price of failure, as you know, is far too great to pay with your life alone."
The room gets colder, and the air gets thinner. The warning laced with power nearly sends me to my knees. It takes me a moment to recompose myself as the threatening power slowly dissipates.
The Emperor silently stares at me, and I feel insignificant in front of him. Like I'm absolutely nothing at all. His power is truly incomparable.
"Tell me about Sunrider. How do things go with him."
The commanding voice of the Emperor shifts the topic to one of his more hands-on projects. One he's handling directly himself. I'll admit, the Sunrider child shows amazing strength and promise. But for the Emperor to meddle directly in his affairs is something I've never seen before.
Access to the child is something he doesn't have yet. However, one of our most trusted Imperial Agents has made a great foothold in his mother's life. Becoming the step-father to Ryan while under the control of the Emperor will give great access to the young Sunrider.
From his weekly reports, he's even secured another child. Strengthening his bond with Sarina and securing an inevitable connection with Ryan.
Unfortunately, using a Child of the Emperor for the task was out of the question. They are stretched thin, and the Emperor doesn't want any Sith or Force-trained individuals near Ryan who are working for him. In the end, Cypher-3 has proven capable in his duties.
"Cypher three has gained a permanent foothold in Sarina's life. Producing a daughter with the Senator. The identity and personality of Adern Aldoravina is completely unaware of Cypher three. Our sleeper is working as you intended, my Emperor."
Just like Bakarn, Adern is unaware of the second personality and identity within his mind. Eventually, whatever plans the Emperor has for Ryan, will come to fruition.
I know not of what he intends for Ryan, but I can only guess there are a great many things. The Emperor has never shown such keen interest in someone before.
Especially after learning about Ryan's origins through one of Cypher three's reports.
The young Sunrider is entirely born of the Force. A conception without a father.
Something that has never happened before in the history of the galaxy.
"My plans for Ryan won't move forward any more than they have until he's begun his training with a Master. When his Padawan training begins, you're reports and connections with young Sunrider will end. You'll no longer be necessary."
The hologram turns off the next second, and the room lightens up again. The apartment provides views of Coruscant out of each window.
'Young Sunrider… To be so lucky…'
There is much to do, and Bakarn's absence from the Temple is sure to be noticed soon. It's time for him to return. My time outside has come to an end for the time being. Now, the plans that are in motion only need to finish.