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

The Tower of First Knowledge has a truly wonderful view of Coruscant. The elevator ride has been a small treat, but the order of my presence in the First Knowledge Council Chamber is where the end of this ride sits. I don't know why they're requesting me.

I was enjoying the one day a week we get off by training. My fellow Younglings and senior Jedi have told me I should take the rest day to actually rest, but that's a full day of progress I'm just leaving on the table. Besides, Curato Salva boosts my recovery severalfold.

With the System's abilities and boosts, the past five months have flown by. As my birthday approaches, I eagerly anticipate the free level it will bring. Birthdays and completing quests are my only avenues for leveling up.

The elevator ride comes to an end as the door opens, and the chamber doors stand tall in front of me. It's the first time I've ever been up one of the towers. I always loved the art of the spires back in my life on Earth, but to actually be here and walking around one of them… It's amazing.

A Jedi Temple Guard sees me walk out of the elevator and approaches me. The Temple Guards of the Old Republic Era look way different than the time of the Clone Wars. They don't wear masks and instead only have a white and grey uniform.

He makes his way toward me and has a knowing look on his features. I wait for him like I'm supposed to, recognizing the proper procedure for Younglings visiting the Tower of First Knowledge.

"Greetings, Youngling Sunrider. The Council awaits you within the Chambers. May the Force be with you."

He steps aside and allows me to walk past him. As I do, he waves his hand, and the two large doors swing open. I continue walking forward into the chamber. Once I'm past the doors, they slowly close behind me. I make my way to the center of the room.

I stop once I'm there. I know I'm not in trouble because I haven't broken any rules. So, I don't really know the specific reason why I was ordered here.

I take a moment and look around the chamber. Every seat is filled, and four of the five are here via hologram. Only one is here in person. I'll admit it makes me feel a little small. Standing in the center of the room and being under the scrutiny of adults.

There is only one face I recognize from the game here, and that's Yuon Par. The Master of the Jedi Consular in the game. I had no idea she was a part of the Council of First Knowledge. That was never discussed in the game, as far as I know.

She was pretty old by the time of the campaign, and that's more than a decade from now. It's hard to determine her age, she looks around 30. But Jedi have a tendency to age rapidly after major stress events. I can only assume that's what happened to her.

"Welcome to the First Knowledge Chambers, young Sunrider. You're probably wondering why we've called you here today. Correct?"

The voice comes from one of the holograms. From a Human female. I don't know her from the games or from my time spent at the Temple. Since most Jedi are engaged in war, Council Members have to come to meetings via holograms. The four holograms here are probably in warzones or in hyperspace heading to them.

My eyes turn slightly to the source of the voice, and I carefully contemplate my answer. I truly don't know why I've been called here today, but maybe it has something to do with my progress. That's the only thing I can think of. Jedi have a tendency to be wary of powerful Jedi.

"Yes, I've been thinking about why you've asked me to be here. But I don't know the reason."

My childish voice comes out in all its glory, and an internal groan goes throughout me. The five Jedi around me share glances and concerned looks. I don't know why they have such looks, but I have a feeling I'm about to find out.

This time, instead of the human female speaking, it's Yuon Par. She leans forward in her seat and softens her expression.

"Initiate Sunrider, could you please lower your mental defenses? It's important for us to know what you're thinking or feeling during these questions."

My mental defenses… I didn't even know I had anything like that. Other than Player's Mind, I don't have any Force Powers that shield my mind. If they're talking about Player's Mind, then there isn't anything I can do. It can't be turned off.

I give a genuinely confused look back at Yuon Par, and I can tell she believes me. She leans back in her seat, and the Masters look at each other. To be able to telepathically speak to each from such great distances… One day, I hope to have the same power as that.

Well, I don't know if it's true telepathy. That's something I never figured out or really understood about the Jedi Councils. I still don't, it's not like it's in our lessons.

"Very well, we'll proceed with the questions anyway."

A male Togruta speaks this time, and I take a look at him. The male counterparts of the Togruta species are physically different than the females. You can clearly see the difference.

"I'm not in trouble, am I?"

I think it'd be wise to find out if I'm in trouble or not. At first, I thought I wasn't, but now it's starting to look like an interrogation. I'm not aware of any rules I've broken.

This time, Yuon Par speaks up. Taking on a softer expression and giving me a reassuring look.

"No, Initiate Sunrider. You're not in trouble. It's just that many in the Order are concerned about you… More specifically, your seemingly unquenchable thirst for knowledge and power. Your Masters and senior Jedi have taken note of you."

So, it is about my growth rate and how aggressive I am about getting stronger and learning more. I wasn't unaware of how out of the norm I am when it comes to my training and growth rate, but I didn't think I'd be questioned about it—not like this.

They see my thinking look, and after a second, one of the holograms of a male Human is the first to ask a question.

"We want to know why you're pushing yourself so hard. Even on your days off, you're still training and studying. Why do you feel like you need to go so far? What's the drive behind your decision to do this?"

The first question finally comes, and it's coming from the heart of their concerns, and it's directed at the core of my motivations. In the back of my head, there is a voice that's telling me I should lie and bullshit my way through this. But my logical mind is saying another thing.

I should just tell them the truth, and the truth is that I'm aware of the burden I have. It'll be my responsibility one day. To fight.

There is a slightly timid look that comes across my features before I speak. Almost intentional, but I can't say I wanted it to happen.

"Because I know… That's why…"

The cute voice that I have makes my stomach churn, but it seems to work on the members of the Council. I can see that my unelaborated answer has them confused.

Master Par takes a small breath, both preparing to speak and thinking about what I said.

"Could you explain what you mean in more detail? It'd be helpful."

Her voice is soft and carrying, making sure there is no confrontation held within it. The Jedi of this day and age are different when treating Younglings. At least, that's what I've noticed in comparison to The Clone Wars.

I look toward the ground for a split second before getting the answer to her question. I look at her with confidence in my eyes. Portraying I'm serious about this as much as I can, as an almost three-year-old is able too.

"I know that it'll be my responsibility. To fight the Sith and the Empire. To protect the Republic. That's why we're being trained the way we are, right? To fight in a war. That's why I push myself… I want to be ready…"

The words leave my lips slowly and carefully. Ensuring they understand it the way I feel it. It's the truth as I see it. One day, it'll be my responsibility to fight the Empire. If I'm too weak, then everything will have been for nothing.

As the answer sinks into the Council, I don't see any outward visible reactions. Not from some of the members. However, Master Par takes on a slightly solemn expression at the answer to the question given to me.

The male Togruta decides this is a perfect time to ask me another question.

"So you're aware of the responsibility you carry? Why do you believe that one day you'll have to fight the Empire?"

From the formation of that question, I can tell he's trying to ascertain how aware I am of what's going on. Not a lot of Younglings really know what's in store for them yet. However, I'm different from them.

"Just look around us right now… Four of you can't be here in person because you're either on a planet in a war or you're on a ship heading for one… The halls of the Temple are almost empty, and when I do see other Jedi coming back to the Temple. They look like they've lost a piece of themselves…"

My answer does get a reaction this time. Every single face looking at me looks away for a split second. Recognizing that what I say is both true and a sad reality. The male Togruta loses his harder expression and takes on a more tired one.

I seem to have hit home with that one.

"So, you train the way you do because you believe that you'll have to go to war? You don't think this war will end by the time you're an adult?"

This time, it's the Human Female that started the questioning that speaks. Asking me a question. It sorta sounds like a trap of a question to me. Making any answer that I give them seem like I don't have faith in the Republic or the Jedi.

"Why would you be training us the way you are if we aren't expected to? I've read the Archives, and I know how the Boma and Heliost Clans are being trained isn't how Younglings are supposed to be trained. You're preparing us for war."

This time, I fought back a bit. Not liking the way I'm being treated in this questioning. My answer and accusatory response seem to stun all the Master here. It's not everyday someone as aware as me appears. Especially at such a young age.

All the Masters become silent at my words and take on a thoughtful expression. Thinking about things I probably have no business knowing.

"You're very aware of what's going on around you for your age, young Sunrider. We'll end today's questions, and you may return back to what you were doing before you were called here."

Master Par suddenly ends the questioning, and even some of the other Masters look at her with confusion. I give a slight bow and leave without saying a word. As I enter the elevator that descends back into the Temple, I can't help thinking this is gonna draw even more attention to me.

Well, I was able to finish my training early today, so I don't see why I shouldn't do something else. Maybe I can convince Chi-han or Dessix to give me permission to go to the Jedi Hanger again. I've enjoyed working on ships, and it's been useful for leveling up some of my skills.

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

My eyes continue to stare at Satele as she listens to one of my fellow Senators describe what's happening to his world. We're currently in a meeting to discuss what's been going on in the Mid Rim. However, I was shocked to learn that Satele will be present for this meeting.

This is the first time I've seen her since I watched her leave with my baby boy almost three years ago. There is a deep anger and pain that I'm holding in, but I'm remaining professional. The meeting continues and eventually comes to an end.

Instead of staying in the same room as the woman who caused me the greatest pain I've ever experienced, I leave and make my way to my office. Entering and sitting at my desk. Spinning around in my chair and looking out to the Jedi Temple.

'He's there… It's almost like I can reach out and touch him… It hurts more today than it has in a long time…'

Yvetta is home with Adern right now. How I wish I could hold my daughter and make sure she's safe. But my thoughts are interrupted as the doors to my office open. I spin around, expecting one of the other Senators I'm supposed to see today.

But instead, I see the bane of my existence. Satele walks into the office with her hands behind her back. Staring at me with a confident and authoritative look.

As our eyes meet, I can't help the boiling anger inside anymore. It appears as a scowl on my face, and I stand up, ready to yell at her. But she holds up one hand, encouraging me to stay silent.

"I know that you hate the Jedi and me for taking away Ryan. I still remember the day I had to give up my own son since he wasn't like me… I don't expect you to forgive me. I just wanted to tell you that you made the right decision by giving up Ryan."

All the power and courage I mustered to scream and yell at her disappeared in an instant. Immediately remembering that Satele has gone through what I have, except it was the opposite in terms of circumstances. I plop back down in my chair, and tears silently roll down my cheeks.

She slowly approaches and stands across from me on the other side of the desk. Her features show an understanding and pitying look.

I lean up in my chair and gain some of my life back. Looking at her and thinking of anything I could do to just talk with Ryan. I just want to hold him. To kiss him and let him know I love him. To know that everything is perfect with him.

"Please, I beg of you. Let me see him. I want to talk to him…"

My voice begins to crack and break as I see her own look become sad. Tears start falling heavily from my eyes, and I can't help but weep. Leaning my head on my hand as I hang over my desk. Trying to gain some semblance of control.

"I'm sorry, Senator Sunrider. But once a Youngling is accepted into the Order, they're not allowed to be in contact with their family."

The words only cause me to cry harder and start choking on my groans of pain. It feels like someone jabbed a sword through my chest. Just like the day I lost him.

"However, the day Ryan becomes a Jedi Knight and if he wishes to get in contact with you. He'll be free too. Until his training is complete, it's next to zero you'll see or speak to him."

Her words only cut deeper, reminding me that he will go to war once he's a padawan. Let alone as a Knight. Instead of saying anything else, she leaves the room as I fill them with sobs and cries about the son I've lost.

I stand up from my chair and make my way out of the office. Racing to the transport area and hopping on a shuttle back to my apartment. Tears racing down my face, wiping them away quickly as I try to maintain dignity. As I enter my apartment, I immediately race to Yvetta.

Lifting her out of the crib and holding her in my arms as I slowly cry. I love my daughter so much, and right now, in this moment. She's the only one I have that can stop this pain.

"What happened…"

The caring and concerned voice of Adern comes from the doorway behind me. I spin around as I rock Yvetta in my arms, and he's leaning against the doorway with his arms folded. A sad and concerned look on his features.

"I saw her today… Satele… Even talked to her…"

He immediately understands and races toward me. Wrapping his arms around me and Yvetta. It takes a moment for me to calm down, but being surrounded by the ones I love is helping.

One day, I'll have Ryan back. I don't know when or how, but sometime in the future, I'll have my son back. Until that day, I have to remain strong. For the family that I have now. After a second, Adern pulls away. I snuggle Yvetta closer to me for a moment.

Kissing her forehead as I do.

"I love you so much, my daughter… More than you can imagine…"

And you too, Ryan…

~~~(POV: Jun Seros)~~~

I slowly pace on one of the open dueling platforms in the dojo. Watching each individual duel that's taking place between the Younglings. Seeing flaws and imperfections as I do. Making mental notes of who needs practice with what.

Many of the Younglings have come a long way with Shii-Cho, but they're still around a year away from learning Makashi. Roka and Rasana are locking blades with each other, using the velocities of Shii-Cho exactly as they're supposed to. But I see inconsistencies between them.

Areas where they're weak and strong. Their duel eventually comes to a head, and Roka gets an opening through great effort, ending the duel.

My eyes drift to another part of the room, and that's where I see Kason dueling with Carden. Kason is aggressively pursuing his opponent. After a minute, he wears Carden down. Ending the duel with a swift strike to the chest.

I've begun to worry about Kason. His drive for power and strength isn't one a Jedi should have. He sees his fellow Younglings as competitions and individuals to defeat. Not his friends and allies that are there to help him grow.

Someday soon, some of the Masters will need to speak with him. If he doesn't change on his own, he'll find himself playing with the Darkside.

After keeping my eyes on him for a few more minutes, I slowly turn my head and see the duel between Qel and Sunrider. Qel is doing his absolute best, making clean and precise attacks as he tries to push Ryan. However, young Sunrider's blade work is flawless.

Perfectly using Shii-Cho to combat the sudden flurry of strikes, and I can see the frustration in Qel's features. After a quick assault, Ryan twirls their blades and disarms Qel. Pointing the blade to the center of his opponent's chest. The movement of their lips tells me they are talking and after a second. Ryan lowers his blade and walks up to Qel.

Giving him advice and suggestions on how to continue improving his form. Ryan trains lightsaber work with Qel almost exclusively. I couldn't say for certain why, but I think Sunrider is trying to help his friend.

Ryan has reached a level of Shii-Cho far above the rest of the two clans. After his visit to the Council of First Knowledge a few days ago, I've been informed to begin Ryan's training in Makashi. Ryan is also to begin advanced training with Warren and Osarah.

In essence, after today, I'll need to sit down and talk with Ryan. Explain that he'll no longer be training with the other Younglings. It's unprecedented that this is happening, but the entire way we've been training Younglings since the start of the year has been unprecedented.

I don't know how he'll take it, but I know Ryan's personality. He's always looking for ways to improve himself. Pushing himself far harder than any of the Younglings. Qel is beginning to do the same. Not wanting to fall behind his friend.

In my silent observation of watching the Younglings on this fine morning, someone I haven't seen in a couple of years walks up behind me. Taking a spot standing next to me. Master Yuon Par has been an excellent and progressive force in the Order.

It was wise for her to be appointed to the Council of First Knowledge. Thanks to her, Ryan will be blossoming far more after today.

"You've done a wonderful job training them, Master Seros. You should be proud of the progress they've made. Without you, the future warriors of the Jedi Order would be uncertain and in crisis."

Her words are slow and considerate. Making sure I hear the genuineness behind her compliment. I'm only one-third of the equation of the Youngling's improvements. Masters Chi-han and Dessixs have been the other two-thirds. It's all of our efforts together that are crafting these fine future Jedi.

"I can only claim responsibility for their lightsaber training. Osarah and Warren are the ones who should be congratulated for their Force Powers and knowledge improvements. It's only working because we're all working together."

I fold my arms and watch closely as a new round of sparring begins, but I'm still paying attention to what Master Par might say if she decides to say anything.

"Young Sunrider surprised the Council of First Knowledge with his answers to our questions… It's hard to believe one so young is that aware of what's going on around him… He must get it from his mother…"

She speaks in a caring voice that's sympathetic to Ryan. When I learned of the answers Ryan gave, I felt like a failure of a Battlemaster. It's not the job of the Younglings to protect and save the Republic. It's ours. And due to our failures in doing so, we've brought ourselves here.

Where a Youngling who's almost three is convinced that he's going to war one day, and he needs to be ready for it.

As to where he gets the awareness, I believe it to be a gift from the Force. His connection is staggering. His power in it grows every day. Even if he's the son of a Senator, that doesn't explain why he is the way he is. What I really worry about is when he's no longer under the care of a Jedi Master.

When he's a Knight, I have no doubt he'll have made a reputation. The attention of the Sith will be on him, and his potential might even catch the eyes of the Emperor himself. I'm not powerful enough to see or sense Ryan's destiny. No one in the Order is.

All we can do is prepare him for anything he might face out in the galaxy.

"Ryan is undoubtedly special. The strongest Youngling to ever come through the Order as long as I've been around. I begin his advanced and individual training tomorrow. He'll no longer be training with the rest of the Younglings. Warren and Osarah are also helping me with this."

She nods her head silently, acknowledging this decision to be the correct one. Too many times in the past have we restrained and controlled the strongest among us. But with the war the way it is, we can't do that anymore. Ryan will be the first who has never been treated in such a way.

After a few minutes, she turns toward the steps of the stairs and makes her way to the dueling circle Qel and Ryan are using. She interrupts their duel, and seems to ask to speak with Ryan. I will not interfere. Yuon is a great Master, and she won't do anything to hamper his progress.

She likely only wants to speak with him in more depth about his answers to the Council of First Knowledge. She's been like that since I've known her. Always attentive to the Younglings and far more than what's required of her.

My focus falls on Qel, and I can see he's disappointed that his dueling partner has left, and the ones who aren't resting are already in a duel. Instead of standing here, I make my way to him.

Time for some one-on-one training with one of my more timid students.

This story will be released to public sites on the 15th. On my (P)-(a)-(t)-(r)-(e)-(o)-(n) page, this story is released with new updates on the 15th 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.