WELCOME TO SOMA III ...

Located in the Outer Rim just a stone's throw from Hutt controlled Space.
Here, in a natural Force-well that mostly obscures the system, a lone Padawan has been apprenticed to, and trained in secret by, a masterful Jedi whose visions led him to both planet and boy. The Jedi Master told only A'Sharad Hett of his padawan but never revealed Soma III's existence.
He vanished from the Jedi Order's records soon after congratulating his friend and mentor Qui-Gon on his elevation to the rank of 'Master'. Taking to heart the advice given him by Master Jinn he sought out the path the Force had for him to walk...no matter where it led. It led him to Soma III.
This blog is devoted to the life and times of that Padawan turned Knight, Tenric Starkindler, and his search for purpose during the Purge and beyond...



Wednesday, December 31, 2008

ECLIPSE (part III)

"As my anger grew, however, the visions became sharper. Now they showed me a ruined temple and clone bodies lying before me. The visions fed my anger and resolve to make the trip. I decided to steal a modified Z-95 Headhunter. I was intimately familiar with them from my racing and Dure-Lite had to have several of them with hyperdrives rated C1."

Dure-lite was always flashing its status around by modding their fleet to have hyperdrives constructed from the ore they mined in system. The purity of the ore allowed for the construction of super efficient drives and Dure-Lite used its fleet to advertise the fact.


After making the decision to steal a ship from Dure-Lite I felt a bit better. I was finally ready to do something besides stew over the betrayal of the Jedi. Sure it was just a trip to find my master’s body and saber, but leaving the system would put me at risk of being discovered. That meant possibly being forced to fight it out with those responsible for my master’s death. I wasn’t going to look for trouble mind you, but if it found me on its own I’d be ready. It was now nearly impossible for me to meditate as before. The emotions boiling inside me prevented me from getting deep enough to actually find peace and calm. I was getting really edgy and began avoiding people I knew. I was afraid I might lose it in front of one of them. I was afraid I might hurt someone unintentionally. Dale noticed of course and confronted me one day.

He found me here in the Shaft at one of the rear booths. I was brooding and planning my theft. I had done enough homework to know that there was one engineer who worked late every night in the yards. He seemed to be tending to recent mods made to several of the ships; scanning and noting things on a datapad. Other than the guard at the main gateway and the security droids he was the only one I had to worry about. I felt I was ready to make my move.

I really didn’t need Dale to play the conscientious friend tonight, but what could I do? We’d grown up together and, since my Master had left and my grandmother had died, he was the closest thing to family I had left. I can still see the look in his eyes as he calmly asked me what was up…

“What do you mean, what’s up?” I asked over the rim of my Corellian Ale.


“You’ve been boiling over for months now and snapping at people when normally you’d smile or joke with them. You even stopped racing. Now you’re avoiding everyone, even me.” He stated as though reading a list of charges against me.

“Look I really don’t want to do this right now.” I replied, backing it with a Force suggestion.

Dale shook his head as though to clear it but only grew more determined. He must really have been worried about me to shake it off so easily.

“Tenric. I’m worried about you buddy. This isn’t like you. I know losing your grandma was hard, and your Uncle’s leaving obviously upset you too, but….”

“Dale my uncle is dead!” I blurted, cutting him off. “He died on a planet on the other side of the galaxy!” I set my flask down so hard the noise made the other patrons glance our way.

It was a testament to our friendship that Dale didn’t even flinch at my outburst. Once again I felt a pang of guilt at having never told him that my “uncle” was really my master and that I had been training as a Jedi since we were just kids. The way things were now of course his not knowing was safest for both of us.

“Sorry man.” Dale offered in a hushed tone. “I guess I’d be angry at the galaxy too if I was in your shoes right now.” Having nothing else to offer he just stared at the table.

“Look Dale,” I confided in a softer tone. “I just need to work through it on my own. It’s…complicated for me.”

“Well I’m here for you if you need anything buddy. Just ask.”

“I know Dale, I know.” Then I made a decision. “Look. I’m going to be off planet for a while. I need to clear my head and take care of some family business.” Dale had never been out-system and his ambitions didn’t lean that way. “Would you look after my place for me while I’m gone?”

“How long you going to be away?” Dale asked sounding concerned.

“Only as long as I need to take care of things. It is a long trip though.”

“Well if you need any credits to buy passage I’ll do what I can to help out.” Dale offered.

“Thanks, but I think I have it all worked out.” I replied, once more thinking of the shipyards.

Monday, December 29, 2008

ECLIPSE (part II)

picking up where we left off.....
=====================================

“I guess that’s part of why I misunderstood the visions that did come. I saw Jedi in battle with clones and an old, ruined, temple in the background. I thought it was the clue I had been looking for; that I had finally found the place my Master had fallen. It was Dantooine, a place I knew of but had never been to. There had once been a Jedi training temple, or some such, there. My Master had told me stories from a time he had visited the planet. Of course getting there posed a bit of a problem. Dantooine is about as far from here as one can go and still be on the galactic map. I would need not just a ship, but one that also had a class I hyperdrive in order to make the trip. That meant I would need to 'borrow' one since my recent winnings were largely spent."

The only two places on Soma III to find such a ship were in the shipyards of either Nal-Lium or Dure-Lite. They were the mining consortiums that controlled the system. Nal-Lium was Hutt-run and definitely second choice. Dure-Lite had the best ships and, being mostly staffed by humans, would be easier to infiltrate.

"My Master would not approve of what I was planning to do. That thought only made me angrier. It was something I had to do! Something I needed to do! After all he was the one who decided to leave and take up his place in the Clone Wars…."

Ragun's only reaction to this indictment of Tenric's Master was to raise his eyebrows and wave to the service droid for another round.

"…Sorry, I know he was just being true to who he was. He had been long in self-imposed exile training me. I had seen the joy and pride in his eyes the one time he had taken me off world to meet Master Hett. He was eager for both the news and companionship of a fellow Jedi. It is Palpitane and his pet clones I am really angry at….Vader too, of course, but that’s a bit different. I never thought I would actually ever meet the Betrayer…but I am getting ahead of myself.
So I needed a ship with a class I hyperdrive and the Dure-Lite fleet was my best chance of obtaining one. I didn’t really know many DL workers, but I often lurked around their shipyards as a boy."

A snuffle fron Ragun had a trace of sarcasm in it. Tenric's antics as a boy were still the talk of many in the settlement.

"Security was tight, but that wouldn’t pose too big a problem for someone with my skill set. I had been playing with Force illusions even before my Master had found me that morning so long ago. The trick would be choosing the right ship. After all I wasn’t going to get a chance to fuel up and lay in supplies.

It ate at me, knowing where I had to go and not being able to just hop in a ship and go. I did have my Incom Z-95, it was a fast ship at sub-light, and had the best shield augments the DL guys had come up with so far, but it was tasked as a racer and didn’t have a hyperdrive. I decided that whatever ship I ended up with would need to remain on permanent loan. I wasn’t too sure how I’d arrange that, but I didn’t really care that much either. I just hoped I wouldn’t need to kill anyone to get it.

===================================================================

ECLIPSE (working title)

===========================

Time Frame: Approx. Order 66 +.75y-1.25y = -18 BBY (This story would be before Tenric's Gambit and was alluded to by Dale)
Setting: Soma III > The Shaft.: Tenric sits musing over the recent past….and downing Corellian Ales with a mission. He is sitting with Ragun, owner of The Shaft after its closing for the night. Tenric is filling his friend in on what he’s been up to lately. Tenric is still in his flight gear, having just arrived from the adventure he is recounting. In the booth next to him is a singed brown robe that looks like it might be in better shape than he is. Ragun is one of, at this point, two people who have known Tenric is a Jedi and not just a bounty hunter. The other being Tenric's grandmother (who died soon after his Master left). Ragun is large, grizzled, and old enough to be Tenric’s grandfather (which may actually be the case: but that is another story...maybe).

===================

"The Force had been in turmoil ever since the Clones had turned on the Jedi and my meditations had been difficult. The currents were wild and I had to stay close to my anchor or risk being swept away. My Master had taught me....but he was gone now...GONE!

I knew my anger over the betrayal and at having been left behind was not part of the Jedi Way. I knew it would poison me if I let it remain unchecked, but it was the only feeling I could stand to have so I let it burn. My dreams were dark and filled with the mixed images of Jedi being slaughtered and clones falling before my blade in vengeance, but they brought me no comfort. Daylight only made me miss the darkness. Others around me went on about their lives, Palpitane's announcement and the outlawing of the Order meant little to them.

I tried not to hate those around me. After all they hadn't betrayed the Jedi, or me; they weren't to blame. The anger boiled out of me though and some were beginning to ask questions. I told them I was upset over my 'uncle' having left, but they felt the disparity. That is why I took up racing. It gave me something to do and a way to pour out my anger."

The Somantus Racing Circuit is a loosely organized group of races spread from Tatooine through the lower quadrant and into Hutt controlled space. Racers are always needed due to the dangerous nature of the courses run.

"At first I flew the races with little conscious Force use. I just threw myself at the courses and used my anger to batter my way to the finish. I am quite a good pilot and was able to manage a few third, and one second, place finishes. Soon, though, I realized that in order to keep racing I would need to win. Sponsors were picky about details like that.

So I began to use the Force to augment my piloting abilities and push the racers to their structural limits. Maybe I really wanted one of them to disintegrate and relieve me of the grief and anger; maybe not. I am still not sure. Incom, though, really knows how to build a ship."'

 The Z-95s I used in the races could take more punishment than you’d believe and still be flyable. The result of my recklessness was a winning record and a reputation as being the quadrant’s most gifted lunatic pilot.

"I was still spending time meditating and seeking visions of where my Master had died. I wanted to find his body and bring it back for burial. I guess I thought it would bring me some sense of closure. I wanted to find his saber too. Other than my meditations and racing I had closed myself off from the Force. It was a stupid thing to do, but at the time I wasn’t thinking too clearly anyway."

=============================================================

Sunday, December 28, 2008

First person narrative

Has always intrigued me. Since reading "I, Jedi" it has been on my mind to attempt something of that nature. I haven't had much time to write lately, not much inclination either, but I have begun the story "Eclipse". Hopefully I will get some of it up soon.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

All Comments Welcomed.

To those who may wish to comment on the stories posted here I offer my thanks.
Constructive comments and/or feedback are always welcomed. I am interested in the opinions of all who read my writings.
Thanks and happy reading!

WHY I WRITE

For those who may be interested. I have the beginnings of an essay on "Why I write" over at
http://word-craft-cafe.blogspot.com/
Which is a companion blog to a writer's forum I have begun.
http://wordcraftcafe.com/index.php

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

HoloNet interruptions continue...

So busy, busy, busy.
I have my kids asking me to do more of these stories and now several co-workers are asking after them. I do plan to continue, but school, work, and sleep seem to take up about 26 hours each day.

My son now has a "character" has made up named Tai-Shee. He has us using his Star Wars figures to re-enact stories of his character's training as a jedi. He convinced me to pretend Tenric was his master so I am getting some good material for future stories....

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

School (and other rants)

Well the combination of school, job, and family has kept me from adding to my stories for a good while now. I do have one in progress, but want more developed before posting it. I hope those visiting the site enjoy what is here (let me know if you like it). I will hopefully get back to posting soon................

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Tenric Starkindler: Stat sheet

Though still under revision as the stories reveal more about Tenric here is a "Stat" sheet of sorts for him. I have had requests for more info in other forums so here it is....

Tenric Starkindler

Alias(es): Hunter / Tenric of Darkwood /
Species: Human
Planet of Origin: Soma III (High Gravity world) located in the Somantus asteroid cloud in the Outer Rim near Hutt Space
Trained by: Bieda Hapit (name subject to revision)
Blade Color: Emerald Green w/ shimmering opalescent waves
Known Saber Style(s): Soresu, Ataru, Shien, Sokan (preferred)
Saber named: First blade named “Pathfinder” second blade of later construction named Arbiter (unique blade: see below)
Known Force Abilities: audio/visual & tactile illusion/impression; strong telekinesis, remote viewing, retro/pre-cognition, suggestion, empathy, Power absorption.
Force Affiliation: Assumed Light side Jedi, but "Dances with the Dark".
Appearance: Average height (just shy of 6') but a bit thicker than usual for his height. Sandy hair and beard with eyes that tend to reflect the predominant color in his attire. He most often appears dressed as a smuggler/bounty hunter in order to avoid detection by Vader and his minions. Wears traditional Jedi robes when "being Jedi".

Background/Info:Trained by Bieda Hapit (friend and protege of Qui-Gon Jinn), unbeknownst to the Jedi Council, Tenric remained hidden during the time of the Purge. Left on his homeworld at the outset of the Clone Wars Tenric spent many years perfecting what he was taught by his master. Being playful by nature Tenric has developed a penchant for using the Force in unpredictable ways. For example, he has developed some skill at auditory and visual illusion as well as the ability to cause tactile sensations in others. Mostly used to fuel his sense of fun and mischief as a younger padawan they have come to serve him well in his adulthood. Most recently Tenric has been using this talent to hide his presence/passage by replacing the signs of his being there in the awareness of onlookers. He is also working on submerging his essence into the Force to effectively become invisible to Force sensitives and mundanes alike. Meditation has long been a favored practice of Tenric's. Through it he has learned to tap into the Force to see not only what is happening elsewhere, but also what may come to pass as well as what has already transpired. This talent has led him to a habit of "Surfing the Force" as he puts it. Keeping himself attuned to the ebb and flow between the Living and Unifying Forces he usually makes his way through most situations with a seeming off-the-cuff manner that can annoy companions, but always keeps things interesting. He seldom shares his insights on a situation since keeping the upper hand has been a key to his survival. Having spent over half of his life without his master's guidance Tenric has developed a penchant for "Dancing with the Dark Side" in order to accomplish what he deems necessary.

The execution of Order 66 (in which his Master died) and the Purge taught Tenric the meaning of rage and he has worked long to both contain and harness it.Tenric's use of the Sokan style fits in with both his playful nature and attunement to the Force. Of all saber styles Sokan most closely matches his natural temperament. Trained in Shien, Soresu, and Ataru by his Master Bieda it was through his meditations that he was introduced to Sokan. Visions showed him aspects of the style and the more he concentrated on them the clearer they became. He basically learned the style while in a meditative trance moving and acting along with the visions he saw of it being instructed. He is still unaware of who this "instructor" was and finding out is on his "seeking list". Also on his list is the recovery of his master's lightsaber which was lost during the execution of Order 66…….

Tenric's lightsaber, Arbiter, is a unique blade. It contains Extra-Galactic elements (Crystals & power cell enhancements) obtained during an adventure orchestrated by an extremely powerful alien being, seemingly for its amusement (back-story on this in progress). The result is the first, and only, known Tri-Phasic Saber... {Section omitted pending full story development}...This causes the blade to shimmer in an opalescent manner and appear somewhat hazy at low (or normal) power levels. ... {Section omitted pending full story development}...but also is capable of cutting through Mandalorian Armor as well as limited thicknesses of Cortosis and other resistant materials. ... {Section omitted pending full story development}...power cell enhancements allow Arbiter to absorb ambient energy (light and heat) as well as energy generated by its movement through a gravitational field (inertial energy). This has the effect of allowing Arbiter to recharge itself while being used or just hanging from Tenric's belt awaiting use. This feature also makes the saber cooler to the touch than other sabers, even in high temperature settings.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Tenric Trivia

Not that it'll be a featured question on "Millionare" or in an upcoming version of Trivial Pursuit, but.....
Tenric has had three sabers in his career to date. The first you read about in his training days. The second was built by cannibalizing the first for parts when he needed a 'cutting edge' (another pending story). The Third has yet to be revealed on this blog (but has been elsewhere).

Below is an image link for Tenric's second saber called Pathfinder. This is the saber he owns during "Tenric's Gambit" and "Gambit Inc." as well as the upcoming story "Eclipse".

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh214/tenric_starkindler/Pathfinder_render1.jpg

Thanks to Randomsaber's own Darth Vile for the wonderful rendering of a humble design.

So where exactly IS Soma III ?

http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh214/tenric_starkindler/star_wars_galaxy_map_2.jpg
(for best viewing save the image and view it full size.)

Well by now you must be wondering just where all this is taking place. ABove is a link to a map of the Star Wars Galaxy and its systems. If you look in the lower left hand quadrant, under Hutt Space, you'll see the Somantus Asteroid cluster/belt. Tenric's homeworld and system lay within.


I make no claim to the map. I have seen it many places online and do not know its origins. I simply added my setting to the map.

Now you know.

Friday, March 14, 2008

Up Next

In the story "Tenric's Gambit" Dale mentions a trip Tenric took to Dantooine. That trip was part of a multi-Authored Fan-Fic that is about to be finished. I got to thinking...why was Tenric on Dantooine? He just shows up in the story (brought in by another author) and I wanted to know why.

The next story, called "Eclipse" will address that missing link.
Stay Tuned......

Friday, March 7, 2008

"Gambit Inc." Sequel to "Tenric's Gambit"

The sequel to this story is now posted in the fanfic area at:
http://www.wordcraftcafe.com/
and accessible to members.
It is entitled "Gambit Inc." and is a cross between the story lines of a fellow fanfic writer, Jedi Ranger, and Tenric’s. Jedi Ranger carried much of the story as we collaborated on the details.

“Gambit Inc.” establishes Orlan and Dale in their new business and sets up some new contacts that will serve Tenric well in the future.

Please stop by, Join, and let us know what you think of it.....

If I obtain Jedi Ranger's permission the story will be posted here as well.

Tenric's Gambit: VI

Here, for now, is the end of the story. I would be happier actually writing the confrontation with Dalba and the establishment of Orlan & Dale's business, but time constraints (and other duties) prevent it.
Hope you enjoyed the story.....please feel free to leave comments or feedback as I am interested in both.

Thanks for reading!!

Part VI

Tenric paused and closed his eyes momentarily. His brow furrowed a bit and he took a deep breath. Dale and Orlan looked at each other as Tenric seemed to finish whatever he was doing then raised his hand to order another Ale.

“I have been putting this little operation together for awhile now, since just before Dalba cheated Dale out of his liberty actually.” Tenric began. “I wanted to find a way to free you from Dure-Lite Orlan, and also free Dale from his debt to Dalba. It seemed best to find a way to combine both objectives and cut the risks thereby.” Dale and Orlan exchanged looks once more.

“Go on,” Orlan prompted, “We’re listening.” Dale simply nodded.

“Dalba was my sponsor for this race. I sought out her sponsorship as a means to gain her trust.” Tenric confided. “I will use the winnings from the race to pay off Dale’s debt.”

“But it isn’t enough.” Dale interrupted.

“It will be when I ask her how much my interview tomorrow morning will be worth to her.” Tenric continued. “You see she has gotten a reputation for being soft among the Hutts and her underlings have begun to grumble and challenge her. If she wants to stay in power here on Soma III she needs to solidify her control.”

“How will your interview help her do that?” Dale asked, while Orlan sat thinking about what Tenric was saying.

“It will help her image immensely when I confess to the reporters that my desperate gambit was fueled by both the awe and fear I have for Dalba. I will say that my desperate need to not disappoint her drove me to accomplish what I did. I will be very sincere.” Here he paused to sip from his newly arrived ale.

“That might actually work!” Dale sounded hopeful now.

“It will my friend, Dalba is desperate and I will be handing her just what she needs.” Tenric encouraged.

“But,” Orlan interjected, “How will she spend this extra sum you offer her? Tempting as it sounds, what will make her underlings buy into it?”

Here Tenric fixed Orlan with one of those stares of his for a moment or two. It gave him the creeps, but he had become used to them over the time they had known each other. Orlan had his suspicions, but kept them to himself. One did not openly discuss certain things nowadays.

“Astute as always my friend,” Tenric replied. “Dalba’s underlings will buy into it because I will be freelancing for her, for a time, to ensure they do.”

“But, you can’t!” Dale began in a splutter of ale. “I’d rather it was me serving that worm than you!”

“Dale,” Tenric soothed, “Trust me on this. I have need of what Dalba can give me with this exchange. The arrangement will be temporary and at my discretion.”

“Need! What could you need from a Hutt?” Dale protested.

“I am about to embark on a new career, if you will, and an association with Dalba will strengthen my entry into it.”

“Just what, if I may ask, will this new venture be?” Orlan asked.

“But!” Dale managed say before Tenric raised his hand to gain their attention.

“I am going to begin Bounty Hunting for Dalba. I will do so until I have enough of a reputation to go it alone.” Here he smiled as both of his friends began to object. He raised his hand again and continued. “I know you are confused and cannot see me as one of the ‘filth of the galaxy’, but there are extenuating circumstances.”

“Such as your Uncle?” Dale almost whispered as he caught on. “Like that trip to Dantooine last year.”

“For one, yes.” Tenric confirmed. “My uncle left SomaIII to take his place in the Clone Wars and fell in battle. I wish to find his remains and bring them back home. My first attempt was misguided, to a point.” Here he once more quieted their objections. “It matters not which side he was on, the truth remains the same. Bounty Hunting will provide me both the credits and cover for traveling widely as I must.”

“What is the other reason?” Orlan asked. Dale had almost forgotten there was a second reason as he contemplated what Tenric was saying.

“The other reason is to be of service to those who have been most injured by Palpitane’s power grab. Those who have been disenfranchised, outlawed, and hunted. The injustice of it has burned within me since the beginning and the time is right for me to step in.”

“But I still don’t…” Dale began.

“I think I do.” Orlan stated flatly, interrupting him. “Things make sense now that you have said it.”

“Said what?” Dale asked feeling somewhat left out.

“You are both intelligent and wise Orlan. Please explain it to Dale after you are free from Dure-Lite.”

“You may count on it. Now just how am I to be free?”

Dale crossed his arms in a determined huff but kept silent as Tenric finished explaining his plan to them.

“Dale, you are a natural pilot and a gifted mechanic. You can feel when something is not right with a ship. Orlan, you are an amazingly gifted engineer and designer. Together you can make your own way in the galaxy free from the Hutts or the glory-stealing bureaucrats of Dure-Lite.”

Once more Orlan and Dale looked at each other as the service droid arrived with a fresh round for all.

“The credits Dale has amassed to pay back Dalba combined with the investment capital Orlan will receive when he announces the founding of his own custom shipyard will set the two of you up in business. Racers from all over the quadrant will flock to you for their needs. Then others will follow. Between the two of you I foresee great advances being made.”

“Exactly why would I make such an announcement Tenric?” Orlan asked.

“Because in my interview I will also give you full credit for saving my life today. It was your modification to the shield generators and repulsors that allowed me to survive being hit by that asteroid. No other racer on the circuit would have survived.”

“Neither would you without those damned reflexes of yours.” Orlan stated.

“True. However even without them there would still have been a fighting chance. Together you can both rise above the mining colony and make a difference that counts.”

“Where shall we find a base of operations?” Orlan asked. “Since you have planned everything else.”

“There is an abandoned asteroid mine in the ‘suicide sector’ that will do nicely. Dure-Lite examined it a generation ago but decided it was too costly to mine. Then the Hutts set up a mining base on it and ran it dry. It has lain dormant for over a decade now, the durelium depleted. Neither the Hutts or Dure-Lite ever made legal claim to it and neither will judge it worth vying for when you claim it.”

“You sound so sure of all this Tenric. How can you know?” Dale asked. “I mean it sounds great and would sure take care of my family, but…”

“I have done my homework on this, be assured my friends. It only needs your agreement to make it happen.”

“I suppose it would work,” Orlan mused. “And, naturally, you’d drop by during the course of your ‘service’ to those poor souls you mentioned.”

Tenric just smiled at his astute friend. Yes. Orlan was the right choice for this, and with Dale along it was sure to flourish.

“Um, Orlan?” Dale turned to face his table-mate. “I’m in if you’re in. Anything’s better than the way things are now, and if we can help Tenric here…..”

“Yes. We can help Dale, and running my own business on the side will be fun as well.” Orlan replied, “It appears we have a deal Tenric.”

“Great then let’s drink to it!” Tenirc said as he raised his ale. All three drank to seal the deal, and Tenric drained his flask. “Now! Dale and I have an appointment with Dalba down below, and you my dear Orlan shall need a good night’s rest if you are to start drawing up your business venture plan in the morning.”

With that they rose from the table and separated for now. Dale and Tenric headed for the gambling dens below to face Dalba, and Orlan headed home. He was overwhelmed with all he had learned this night, and with what the future might hold. As he headed off down the street he began running the numbers in his head and mumbling under his breath….

“At least three ship bays, zero-g fabrication unit, some sort of perimeter security.....and a full engineering simulator….”

Fade to Black / roll credits & play theme music….

Tenric's Gambit: V

part V

Dale wandered down to the cantina he and Tenric usually met at. The Shaft, as it was affectionately called, was an interesting place. Carved from a building sized boulder it had several underground rooms used for playing Sabaac as well as other, less friendly, games of chance. Tenric liked the place mostly because he liked the owner. Old Ragün had been a friend of Tenric’s grandmother since before he’d been born. Ragün ran as clean an establishment as the Hutts would allow and was respected by all the miners, human and non-human alike. The Hutts might run the lower levels, but up top he was boss. The fact that his grandson was highly placed in the local Enforcer Brigade also helped keep the peace. There were arguments aplenty, and fistfights were common, but if you pulled a weapon or drew unnecessary blood you’d end up not only banned from the establishment for life, but also might just be summarily arrested and shipped to the Asteroid mines for “community service”. Many said Kessel was a preferable fate.

Dale got a booth and waited for Tenric. Only his friend’s last remark kept him from getting drunk and going below to face Dalba now. Tenric seemed to have a plan of some sorts to help him pay back the money he’d lost to the Hutt playing sabaac. He’d had an Idiot’s Array, a guaranteed win, but a seemingly random ‘shuffle’ had given his hand to Dalba at the very last second. Accusing the Hutt of cheating would have been suicide so he’d had to accept the loss. Now he owed the slimy cheat enough to buy a small freighter, and he couldn’t pay. He’d scraped some of it together with his racing winnings, but time was up and today’s loss sealed his fate, unless Tenric had an Idiot’s Array of his own to play.

The Holo-Vid at the bar was tuned to the news coverage of the race. The reporter, a canine-faced Bothan, was repeating the ruling that had just been handed down by the racing commission.

“In an unprecedented decision the judges have decided to pool the credits for first, second, and third place and split them evenly between the three winners. The official statement cites the heroic actions of the three winners in preventing loss of life as the basis for their decision….”

Dale shook his head as he did a quick calculation. Even if Tenric were to give him his third of the winnings it still wouldn’t be enough. Still, if Tenric felt there was hope he was willing to feel it too. Maybe the money would be enough to buy more time.

“…Furthermore, stay tuned for at first light we have been promised an exclusive interview with the racer who had all of us on the edge of our seats. Tenric of Darkwood Settlement has promised to let us in on what inspired him to such lunacy and greatness.”

Dale stared at the screen. “An interview, huh?” He thought, but his musing was interrupted by the arrival of Orlan. He looked around, spotted Dale, and headed over. Dale knew him mainly through Tenric. He was an engineer with Dure-Lite by day and Tenric’s ship mechanic and developer by night. He couldn’t recall how they had met, but they seemed to get along quite well.

“Hey, how’s it going Dale?” Orlan said as he sat down and ordered a large ‘Hutt-Buster’ from the service droid that approached. “Tenric told me last night to meet you two here around now. He said he might be late.” He finished with a frown. “He is alright isn’t he?”

“Yeah. He’s ok. Got banged around a bit but he’ll be fine.” Dale replied. “ Should be here in a bit. He got the med-techs to play up the injuries so he could avoid the media hounds ‘til morning. He was dropped off at Dure-Med a while ago and will…”

“…Be along any time now,” called Tenric from the doorway. Both men swiveled to watch their friend come across the room to their table. As he did so many patrons lifted a glass in salute or greeting and the buzz in the cantina switched notably to the topic of the race. The Bacta-patch was gone and the “gash” on the left side of his head looked well on it’s way to healing cleanly. He was wearing a loose tunic and pants, probably from the med facility, and though a bit pale looked well enough.

As he joined them in the booth the server-droid whizzed up and said in its metallic voice, “Ragün says this table drinks for free tonight.” With that the droid put two large Corellian Ales and a ‘Hutt-Buster’ on the table and departed. Tenric waved his thanks to the bar and grabbed his glass. After draining it in one long draught he put it down thoughtfully. He gazed at it a moment or two with that look of his, kinda like he was far away and running his body by remote. Dale and Orlan were looking at each other, wondering which of them should speak first, when Tenric shook his head, looked at them and said…

“Well, let me tell you why I’ve thrown this little party…”

Tenric's Gambit: IV

Part IV

The Holo-coverage switched to commercials for race sponsors Incom and Byblos Drives, in order to allow the producers and judges time to decide what to do about the finish. Never before had there been a tie for any position in the Somantus Slalom. Indeed the race was dangerous enough that many thought of it as pod-racing for idiots and nearly every race used to end in numerous deaths until the local Dure-Lite engineers had come up with a shield/repulsor combination that could usually save a ship from glancing blows. All racers were now required to have the modifications made in order to race.

Dale headed over to the landing pits to see if Tenric was any better off than his ship. He knew there was no way the crippled Z-95 could land planet side which meant his friend would be coming down in either a med transport or on the media-sled. He wasn’t sure which he hoped for, since the trip planet side in the media-sled could be the more painful of the two. He waded through more than a hundred spectators waiting for the sleds. Reports being piped over the address system from the comm. channels said Tenric was ok and the media-sled would be mobbed when it landed. Dale looked from the crowd by the media bay to the med pit. The reports said Tenric was ok, but knowing his friend he headed for the med pit anyway.

Sure enough when the med transport landed Tenric was strapped to a grav-bed with full life sensors engaged. There was an audible gasp from the nearby media bay as they took him from the transport and the crowd took notice. Dale was wondering how he could find out how bad Tenric was when one of the med-techs called out to him.

“Hey, you there! Your name Dale by any chance?” called the med-tech, causing the guard to glance at both of them.

“Uh…Yeah that ‘s my name.” Dale responded somewhat cautiously. “Why?”

“He said you’d be here waiting and he wanted you to come along.” Came the reply.

The guard eyed Dale’s zero-g racing suit and the advancing mob and quickly waved him in past the barrier. Dale headed over to the medical speeder they were loading his friend onto wondering what was going on. As he got in he saw that Tenric had a bacta patch across the left side of his head and some visible scorching along the arm of his suit. The med-tech gave Dale an odd look as he closed and secured the hatch, then turned and winked at him.

As Dale was trying to figure out what that could mean the med-tech went over to Tenric and shut off the life sensors and remove them. The Speeder rose and headed out toward the Dure-Med Facility as the med-tech took a seat. Dale waited a moment then slid up to the bed and took a look at his friend. Tenric looked disheveled and beaten up, but otherwise not too bad. The left side of his head had apparently been burned by whatever had scorched his flight suit. There was a bruise on his chin as well.

While Dale was still taking stock of his friend’s injuries Tenric popped his eyes open wide and said “Boo!”. This had the intended effect of surprising Dale enough to cause him to jerk back, knock his head on the wall of the compartment, and slide off the seat. Tenric sat up laughing, then coughed and grimaced from the effort. The med-tech also thought it was funny.

“What the hutt are you doing!” was all Dale could manage by way of protest.

“Tenric wanted to avoid the media and asked us to play it up a bit.” The tech answered while Tenric recovered from his coughing fit. “ His ribs took a beating and he got a nasty gash on his head, but otherwise he’s fine.”

“Yeah, forgot to max out the inertial compensator’s in all the excitement.” Tenric offered with a lopsided smile. “Got banged around a good bit by that big ol’ rock.”

“Everyone thought you were dead when that rock hit you. What happened?” Dale asked.

“Well I had seen it coming and knew Halphon and Guurk wouldn’t so I turbo’d up between them and told them to roll out fast. Then I threw everything into the shields, nearly broke the control stick banking hard, and got bounced clear over the neighboring rock, well…skipped over the rock is more like it if you believe my ribs.” He finished while gingerly testing his side.

Dale just shook his head. “Only you could have lived through what you tried. Heh, only you would ever have even tried it in the first place.”

“Hey, can’t let my best friend end up enslaved to the Hutts.” Tenric replied.

“Well thanks for at least trying.” Dale offered dejectedly as the speeder stopped at the med facility.

The Med-tech told Tenric to lay back down. When Tenric asked why he was told that since he had wanted to “play it up” he would now have to endure an examination and convince the droids he was alright as well.

“Ohh Burble-blow.” He responded with a laugh. “I guess I got myself into that didn’t I?” He said as he lay back down. “Dale. Remember my Ale. I’ll be along as soon as I can.”

Dale turned to leave and heard Tenric call out to him as he was taken into the med-facility, “Besides I’m not done trying yet!”

Tenric's Gambit: III

part III

“Gentle Beings,” the announcer began a moment later. “It appears that Tenric’s Gambit has failed. After his dramatic rescue of a fellow racer and death-defying battle to take the lead it seems…”

The spectators saw it before the announcer had and a sharp intake of breath was heard from everyone followed by a rousing cheer. There on the heads-up display a green dot, Tenric’s dot, had emerged from the backside of a neighboring asteroid. The other two lead ships had just recovered their vectors and were speeding away from the area. The Announcer, having found his voice by now, was even more enthusiastic than before.

“Against all odds and in defiance of reason itself it appears that Tenric not only survived the collision, but is still in the race!” It came out as a nearly unintelligible shriek, but no one was paying attention.

The vid feed hastily swung in the direction of the asteroid and needed a moment or two to lock onto the ship. When it did the cheer died as disbelief took over. There in the center of the display were the remains of Tenric’s Headhunter. One wing had been sheared off near the engines and the nose looked as though it had been chewed on by a hungry rancor. There was a nasty looking black smear behind the cockpit usually occupied by the shield generator and another along the port side. It seemed impossible that the ship was still space-worthy, much less pilotable.

“Wait!” The announcer called out. “It appears that Guurk and Halphon have changed course.”

As the crowd watched in stunned disbelief the two other lead ships took up escort positions to either side of Tenric’s ship. Even as they did one of his engine exhaust valves gave way and was blown off.

“Well now I shall have to retire my friends.” The announcer continued in a subdued tone. “For I have witnessed this day not only the improbable and impossible, but also the height of the racing spirit. I have just been informed that both Halphon and Guurk have comm’d their withdrawal from the race. It appears they are each using their damaged shield generators to extend a bubble around Tenric’s ship.”

There was a burst of traffic over the comm. channel and the announcer continued.

“Both Halphon and Guurk have confirmed their withdrawal. They claim they are honoring the pilot who saved their lives by warning them about the rogue asteroid in time for each to escape the collision. Both affirm that Tenric would have won the race had he not changed course to warn them.”

Surely enough all three ships now flew in tandem with Tenric’s wobbling at the center. Together they moved out of the field and headed toward the finish line. The other racers, having now caught up, came screaming toward the finish trying to beat the limping trio. Their lead had been too great though and all three crossed the finish together a few seconds ahead of the pack. The crowd cheered wildly and several made attempts to hug Dale as he stood there blinking, trying to fathom what he had just seen….

Tenric's Gambit: II

part II

….Giving his friend’s ship a last glance Tenric looked ahead and focused on the race. He knew Dale needed the prize money to pay off Dalba, the local Hutt Boss, and keep his family from debt-enslavement. The other racers were so far ahead though that he doubted if even the Force could make enough of a difference. Nevertheless he had to try so he opened his throttle to its maximum, switched on the turbo compressors, and sank into the currents around him to see if he could find a way through.

Around him space took on a hazy, yellowish, caste while the myriad asteroids and other detritus wore hues of blue, red, and orange. Knowing his chances were slim Tenric decided that the direct approach would be the best. He set himself on as straight a path through the course as possible. The rules called for each racer to follow a pre-set course, but allowed ample room for course corrections and deviations due to the random nature of the asteroids. Through the Force, however, he could see the pattern behind the randomness. The currents showed him which ones would cross his intended vector and allowed him to make last minute dives or rolls to avoid them.

He ramped his shield generators up to one hundred and twenty percent and willed them not to burn out. He knew he’d be getting too close to some of the rocks and would need the protection. Slowly he made up the distance, shields bucking the ship like an angry rancor, closing the gap as the other pilots wove through a dense portion of the course. Then, after a few near misses, he found himself back in the middle of the pack. It was much harder to pick a course with all the other pilots around him. The individual ripples their thoughts and intentions caused in the currents confused things considerably. Still Tenric was able to gain steadily upon the leaders.

Skirting a tumbling rock the size of a Dreadnaught he cut it a bit too close and was bucked so hard by the shield recoil he almost lost control. The maneuver worked though as it allowed him to leapfrog into third position. He briefly considered staying put, his nerves were a bit frayed from the close call, but the winnings wouldn’t be enough. Taking a deep breath to calm himself, and sending a silent plea to the Unifying Force, he dialed his engines to one hundred and ten percent and hoped the thrust valves didn’t fuse from the over heating he knew would occur because of the turbos…..

….Dale managed to land his wounded Headhunter safely, despite a second engine giving out on the descent and his control panel flaring up once more. Gotta hand it to Incom, he thought, these Headhnters could take a hell of a lot of punishment and fly with half the systems out. Once on the ground, he tossed his helmet to the service droid and headed for the nearest holo-net screen. He found one in the main port hanger that was tuned to the race. A few dozen spectators milled around it as the announcer kept up a running commentary. Dale saw that one ship had been singled out by the producers and knew it had to be his friend’s.

“…Absolutely amazing!” the announcer went on, “that pilot is either insane, or is one of the most gifted idiots in the galaxy!”

Here a sub-screen popped up showing a close up of the ship, identifying it by its markings and number since the transponder signals tended to bounce so erratically off the asteroids they were useless.

“We have an ID on the pilot now. Just a minute.” The announcer was saying, “Yes. It makes sense now. None other than Tenric, out of the Darkwood settlement, is piloting that ship.” The announcer’s tone implied his opinion clearly. “So I was right on both counts then.”

The crowd laughed at the remark, some nodding in a knowing way. On the local racing circuit Tenric was known to be both brash and brilliant. He often took chances no one else even had nightmares about and had lived through each of them…so far. People loved to root for him; especially since most of them believed each race would be his last.

“The racers have cleared the outermost barrier now and are making the far turn to head back through the field in a dash for the finish. Tenric has taken third and is close behind Halphon and Guurk.”

The screen now split top and bottom giving viewers a real-time vid feed on the bottom and a heads up graphic depicting the course, time, and position of the leaders. Dale found himself wondering about the odd things that had happened in his ship. He watched Tenric draw a nearly straight line through the field and take the lead while the announcer was nearly apoplectic with the sheer insanity of what he was now calling ‘Tenric’s Gambit.’ It should have been impossible.

“Never in all my years of racing have I seen such a display of insane piloting! I cannot believe it, but he might actually pull it off!” The announcer was nearly frothing now. “To come from so far back and gain the lead is unimaginable!” Then he seemed to remember the other racers, “Halphon is closing in though, and Guurk is solidly in third. This is still a race any of them can win.”

As he stared at the screen Dale recalled the time he and Tenric had been playing in Darkwood. They had been racing then too and Tenric had suddenly shifted his stride and knocked him clear off his feet. He had gotten up intending to at least break a nose or an arm over the insult when he noticed Tenric in a crumpled heap. An assassin viper, a carnivorous amphibian half-toad half-snake, had bitten him. He had carried Tenric back to his homestead afraid he would be too late. Tenric’s uncle though was a skilled healer and was able to save him. The next day he had visited Tenric and chided him about the fact that he was bitten as repayment for his dirty trick. Tenric had humphed and said he guessed so, but there was an almost amused look in his eye when he did.

It was a few days later that Dale had revisited the spot. Tenric was still a bit weak and had stayed home. When he re-ran the incident in his mind he realized that the assassin viper had most likely been striking at him and not Tenric. By bumping him when he had Tenric ended up in the same spot Dale should have been…

...A blinding flash on the holo-screen brought Dale out of his reverie. A careening asteroid had come from out of nowhere and crossed paths with the lead ship. The other two leaders had pitched violently to avoid being hit and each had been thrown aside by the recoil from their shields. The announcer was silent, and the crowd deathly still. Tenric’s ship was no longer in frame and the heads-up graphic could not pinpoint his location….

Tenric's Gambit: I

Got another story of Tenric underway here. Takes place roughly 2 years after Order 66 (-18 BBY) in Tenric's home system.
Here he is full-grown (@21 yrs. Old) and risking all to help a friend in need....

Tales from Soma III: Tenric's Gambit

Part I

"Hutt-Slime!", exclaimed the pilot as sparks erupted from the control panel accompanied by a wisp of smoke. Even before the alarm sounded, a drop in the ship's vibration rate told him one of his engines had just given out. He wrestled with the suddenly sluggish control stick and was forced to concentrate more on completing the race alive than trying to win it.

Several hoots and cheers came over the comm as the nearest ships shot past him to vie for the lead. He watched dejectedly as his hopes for winning literally flew away from him. He needed the prize money badly enough to have risked his life in this speed demon of a ship. Now it seemed as though it had been for nothing.

It wouldn't normally be such a dangerous situation since the fire suppression system would have handled it almost as it happened. The problem, however, was that the system wasn't there. In fact there were a lot of things considered standard that were missing in the stripped down Headhunter he was flying. Speed and maneuverability were paramount in this race so concessions had been made. As it stood now he wasn't sure if he could maneuver back out of the asteroid belt, much less finish the race. Of course, the fire might just deplete his life support and solve that problem for him; or one of the turbo burners could backlight and....

Up ahead one of the racers executed a tight flip-roll and broke from the pack. It turned back in his direction and was shortly flying in tight formation with him...too tight.

"Tenric, get the hell away from me man, she could blow any second!" He shouted into the comm

"Dale, just shut up and listen!" came the curt reply. "Shut down your oxygen and take as deep a breath as you can. Then run the emergency test cycle on the cockpit scrubbers!"

"No way man!" Dale responded, "I can't hold my breath long enough for that trick to work!"

"Then we're both going to die out here." came the emotionless response.

That got his attention. He had been prepared to die in this race if necessary, but not to take a friend with him, especially not Tenric. With him gone Tenric would be all his family had between them and debt-slavery to the Hutts.

"You never do know when to back out my friend." Tenric comm'd in response to his thoughts. "Now do it before its too late!"

Dale wondered again at how his friend had changed over the years. He'd grown from an impish and mostly shy boy to a gregarious and, still a bit impish, young man. The biggest change, though, was that Tenric had become focused in a way that could be scary and had an odd way of looking at you. He thought and reacted faster than anyone should...and he was almost always right. Dale knew it had something to do with Tenric's 'Uncle'. The old man had that same focused intensity and odd far-away stare. Since he left Tenric had.....

"Dale! Now!" Tenric ordered.

Dale realized he had begun to drift off; his Oxygen must be more depleted than he thought. With a shake of his head he flipped the switches and did as his friend instructed. Immediately he felt the rush of air as the scrubbers strained to evacuate all the air in the cockpit. The process took two full minutes and he had never been able to hold hid breath more than one and a quarter.

Just as he was beginning to crave air he felt something clamp itself around his throat. Amid his rising panic he realized he couldn't have taken a breath if he wanted to. His head was spinning and he felt as though he might black out. Suddenly his control stick seemed to move by itself and steer him past an oncoming rock twenty times his size. The pressurization alarm began to ring and he fumbled with the switch trying to get oxygen back into the cockpit. Then the switch just flipped on its own and he heard the life giving hiss of re-pressurization. His throat opened then and he could breath.

"Dale. Dale, you ok in there?" Came Tenric's voice over the comm.

"Ye...yeah. Think so." came the weak reply

"Ok buddy. You'll be safe along this vector. How's your air?"

Dale glanced at the readout. There was enough to get home, barely, but finishing the race was out of the question. He would need to use his emergency canister though in order to make it.

"Get home safe my friend." Tenric comm'd. "Let me worry about the race."

"There's no way you can win now!" he sent back "they're too far ahead!"

"Correllian Ale, cold, at the usual place." was Tenric's reply as his ship screamed off after the other racers.....

Monday, March 3, 2008

Decisions.....decisions

I have several Tenric stories either done or in progress.
Do I post what I have....kinda piecemeal....and then work on finishing some of them?
Do I post them in chronological order as they are finished?
comments or thoughts welcome....

Friday, February 22, 2008

Tales of Tenric's Training: IX

Part V

Now that he had the benefit of hindsight Tenric regretted the teasing tone he had used. His whole body ached from the many places his Master had struck in order to ‘teach’ him. Set for training mode his Master’s saber was only marginally more powerful than his blue training blade, but that was little comfort. Each time he had dropped his guard or been too slow in recovery his master had nailed him with his sun-colored blade. Most of the exchanges had gone something like slash - block - thrust - parry - counter attack - riposte followed by a loud ‘Yeow!’ and the taunting words “Are you learning my Padawan?” or sometimes the much simpler, “No pain-no gain, my padawan.”

It was much worse than sparring with tool handles and sticks. Those weapons left bruises and calluses. The training saber, however, not only left Tenric bruised but twitchy with frayed nerves from the jolting. Even now, laying in bed the next morning, stray muscles would twitch randomly or send phantom pain messages to his brain. He groaned as he realized that he had to get up and ready himself for more of the same today.

“Tenric, if you don’t come and eat soon I’ll wrap it all up and have you take it to Dale.” Teased his Gam’Ma.

Sitting up, Tenric pulled his worn tunic over his head and shuffled out to the table.

“Well mornin’ there m’little Kindler. Glad to sees ya’s still ‘live.” She said as she winked at him.

“Am I really Gam’Ma?” he replied with feigned surprise as he sat down gingerly.

She came and sat with him, the smell of her ever-present cup of tea reviving him somewhat. She looked at him proudly. Tenric knew she had given his Master a tongue lashing last night over his bruises and felt better knowing she had avenged him at least a little. As he hungrily wolfed down his food he noticed a gleam in his Gam’Ma’s eye.

“Wha’s up Gam’Ma?” he managed, his mouth full.

“Now I dun taught ya more manners than that!” she said with a broad smile.

With a gulp of cool water he washed down the last of his food. “Sorry Gam’Ma.”
Still smiling at him she glanced over at the chair by the window. It was the one she always sat in to watch his comings and goings. Following her gaze Tenric saw a small bundle on the seat.

“For you m’little Kindler.” She said, “An’ it’s ‘bout time too!”

Tenric stared wide-eyed at it until he realized she was waiting for him to go over and unwrap it. His aches and bruises forgotten, he went over to the chair and looked down at the ovoid bundle. There was the faint and unmistakable smell of leather in the area.

“Well I ain’t getting any younger ya know!” she called out in a laughing tone.

Her jibe broke his paralysis and he scooped up the bundle. It felt both firm and giving in his arms. Brining it to the table he unwrapped it and felt his heart leap for joy. There before him was a hand-tooled, double-banded, leather belt. There was one pouch hanging on the side with a curious symbol inscribed on the flap.

“I styled it after his belt ya know. I just added a bit of my own touch to it.” She offered.

“I – I can’t believe it!” He exclaimed. “My own Jedi belt!” He practically danced as he fumbled with the unfamiliar rear clasp.

“Seein’ as how he finally got around to letting you have a real blade I figured you should have somethin’ ta wear it on.” She said with that gleam in her eye.

“Does he know?” Tenric asked, suddenly concerned that his Master might disapprove for some reason.

“Sure does.” She replied. “He even gave me that old clasp thing for you to hang your saber on. Told me where ta put it too.”

Wide-eyed once more Tenric looked down at the side of the belt and saw the clasp affixed in just the right spot. Suddenly remembering, he dashed to his bedside and retrieved the saber that he’d left on the floor. When he had rejoined his Gam’Ma he clipped it to the belt and stood tall for her inspection. She smiled at him and tousled his hair.

“You’ll make a wonderful Jedi m’little Kindler.” She beamed at him. “Why I’ll bet ya even outshine tha stars someday.”

He threw his arms around her and hugged her as tightly as he dared. “Thank you Gam’Ma!” he choked out amidst his joyful tears.

“Now get along now.” She said as she held him at arms length and looked him over. “He’s waitin’ for ya in your clearing.”
Tenric headed off to meet his Master with visions of soaring among the stars as a Jedi filling his mind. Today he felt like more than a Padawan, more even than a Jedi. Today he felt like a man.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Tales of Tenric's Training: VIII

Part VIII

…The close call with Dale made Tenric focus more on his surroundings. The last thing he needed was Dale snooping around while he was training. His Master had been quite forceful in asserting that if his training was discovered it would stop right then and there…forever. There was an edge in his Master’s voice when he spoke of the future. Something he saw or sensed filled him with foreboding and made him secretive about everything. Tenric couldn’t see far ahead yet, or far behind for that matter. He had learned to interpret the Force currents enough to anticipate things a few hours both ways, and sometimes as much as a day. He knew it would be a long time before he could cast his gaze as far abroad as his Master did.

Realizing his thoughts were drifting off again Tenric stopped and used the centering exercise he had learned from his meditation lessons. He was almost immediately struck with the impression of his Master’s impatience. He was close to the pond now and could sense his Master up ahead. He paused long enough to be sure his Master wasn’t angry then continued to the clearing. As he drew nearer the questions began once more running through his mind. Proximity had lent them enough imminence to intrude upon his calm once more.

“So kind of you to join me, Padawan.” His Master purred with a slight bow.

“I ran into Dale on the way and was delayed.” Tenric offered.

“Yes. I know.” Came the unconcerned reply.

“I had to nudge him a little so he wouldn’t follow me.” Tenric confessed.

“I trust you were discreet. Do not worry.” Again not sounding worried.

“Yes Master, Very. He chose to avoid the drudgery of learning to make a fishing pole and decided my Gam’Ma’s mornin’ cakes were the better choice.” Tenric explained.

“On most mornings I would agree with him.” His Master smiled, “but not this morning.” He leaned over behind the log to pick something up. Then he turned and handed Tenric a rough but serviceable looking fishing pole and line. “We’ll catch dinner later.” Then, when Tenric looked shocked, he offered; “I had some free time while I waited for you.”

“But how did you….” Tenric stammered, then thought better of it and finished, “never mind, I don’t need to know.”

“A wise Jedi it is who knows when a line of inquiry leads to an unneeded answer.” His Master teased.

Tenric just made a face in reply. He was eager to begin today’s lesson, but his Master seemed different today. He couldn’t quite place it, but….

“Today shall mark your rising to a new level in your training.” His Master interrupted his thoughts. “You have learned the rough use of the Force, as well as some of the finer points of control. You have mastered the basic exercises and disciplines needed in order to build upon. You have gained the vision necessary to pursue the deeper things of the Force and you have learned to use the Force to anticipate events.” Here he paused and reached into his tunic, leaving his hand there. “Before now we have sparred and drilled using branches and tool handles. I have taught you basic stances, attacks, defenses, and combinations.”

Here Tenric winced a little as he recalled his usual failure to recover quickly enough after the low-end combinations. His Master paused, casting a judging gaze upon him. Then he withdrew his hand from his tunic. In it was a long cylindrical tube with a few grips and buttons on it. Tenric’s heart leapt at the sight of it for it was not his Master’s Light saber. He held his breath and watched in wide-eyed awe as his Master approached him and offered him the hilt with a solemn gesture.

“From now on, my Padawan you shall learn in earnest.” He said as he retreated a few paces. “Let your awareness flow into the hilt and then find its place in the currents around you.” Came the instruction.

Tenric took a few moments to calm himself before reaching downward into the hilt with the Force. When he did so he sensed a unity and oneness in the hilt that was surprising. He had much difficulty telling one component from another and only the power cell and focusing crystal stood out much at all. His Master had told him tales of how Jedi Knights created their sabers, and how they used the Force to activate and enable the separate components to function in ways that would otherwise be impossible. Until now he had thought them just bedtime stories.

“You now know why the Jedi and his light saber are so closely tied.” His Master intoned. “Follow the Force through the hilt and you will sense the echoes of the one who constructed it.”

It took Tenric a moment or two to realize he was actually expected to do it. He focused on finding himself in the currents around him and then on finding the hilt in his hands. As he looked outward and saw the ripples made by the hilt a face took shape before him. It was an older face. It wore a beard and long hair gone partly grey. There was a prominent nose and a twinkle in the eyes. Tenric realized he was looking at the face of the Jedi who had made this hilt…. The face of his Master’s Teacher!

“My Padawan, I gladly give to you the training saber my Master constructed in order to teach me. It is a practice saber and will not do more than singe your clothing and hair a bit…and sting mightily. It is a real blade though and fighting with it will feel no different than with your own one day.”

Tenric took a deep breath and thumbed the activation plate. Immediately a rich blue blade emerged and there was a satisfying ‘snap-hiss’ followed by a thrumming hum as the hilt began to vibrate and shake in his hands. He could feel the immense energy surging through the hilt and was surprised to feel no weight from the blade. He realized it would take a lot of concentration to wield the blade and swung it a few times to test its balance. Deactivated the hilt had definitely been pommel heavy. The vibrating effect, however, seemed to lend the hilt a slight forward balance, as if the tip of the hilt were slightly heavier than the pommel.
With an ear splitting smile Tenric took a ready stance, cocked his head slightly to the side, and said; “Come and teach me, my Master.”

Tales of Tenric's Training: VII

Part VII

A million things raced through Tenric’s head as he made for the clearing and the fishing log. What was the surprise? How would the lesson start? What would it be like? Would he do well? Would today be the day he remembered to keep his guard up after the low-end combination? His mind filled with such questions Tenric was unaware of the other’s presence until it was too late. Rounding a bend in the path he all but collided with his friend Dale.

“Hey! What the Hutt?” Dale blurted in surprise as Tenric almost ran him down. In order to avoid a collision both boys had jumped to one side and now stood on opposite sides of the path facing each other.

“Dale! Oh, man I’m sorry. I didn’t sen...hear you coming.”

“Where you off to in such a hurry? I was gonna stop by and see if your Gam’Ma was making those mornin’ cakes we like so much.”

“Uh, yeah, actually she did this morning.” Dale answered at a loss as to how to get out of what was coming. “If you hurry you can catch her before she clears everything up. She knows you love those cakes and will probably save a couple for you.”

“You think!” Dale responded excitedly. Then, eyeing Tenric suspiciously, he added; “You’re up to somethin’ Tenric, I can smell it.”

Tenric knew he’d have to give Dale a good answer for why he was racing through the forest this early in the morning. Though a few years older, Dale was his comrade-in-arms, which meant they usually got into trouble together. Reaching out with the Force Tenric added a slight nudge behind his reply, hoping it would be enough to get Dale to accept his answer and not push it. He knew if Dale wasn’t satisfied not even the Force could keep him from finding out what was going on.

“My uncle is waiting for me by the pond. He’s going to teach me how to make my own pole and line and then help me catch dinner. He says there is a huge Lurker-Fish in there waiting to be caught.” Tenric felt bad about lying to his friend and using the Force like this, but his Jedi training was a strict secret and had to remain so.

“Sounds like fun.” Dale responded in a non-committal tone; “Maybe I can join you…after I say good morning to your Gam’Ma.” He finished, obviously thinking more of the mornin’ cakes than the prospect of fishing. He wasn’t quite patient enough to enjoy it much.

“I’ll tell you all about it later.” Tenric called out as he started off again. Dale had bought the fishing reply and wouldn’t go near the pond ‘til at least lunchtime. That way he would hope to avoid all that waiting and teaching stuff and just get in on the catching.

“Sure thing!” Dale called out after Tenric. He turned and started off toward Tenric’s place hoping there were indeed a few ‘cakes left for him. Fishing was boring and he didn’t see the fun in learning how to make your own pole. Tenric seemed awfully excited about it too. For a moment Dale grew suspicious again, but the lingering Force-suggestion was just strong enough to make him decide to ask Tenric later…after all he was hungry and Gam’Ma would be clearing up real soon. His mind made up Dale trotted off thinking of butter and syrup and how to get the right combination of each…

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Tenric's training: VI

PART VI

He was gonna be in trouble and he knew it. Today was the day his Master began instructing him in Force-Assisted Saber dueling and he was so excited he had been unable to sleep at all last night. Well to be honest he had gotten some sleep…about an hour of it; and he had just been awakened from that to come out to breakfast.

‘Great!’ he thought, ‘I’ll need every ounce of the Force I can muster just to be my old, slow self today.’

“Tenric?” his Grandmother called, “Come’n out to breakfast, honey!”

Quickly pulling on his sparse tunic and breeches Tenric hurried out. He loved a good breakfast and no one made it better than his Gam’Ma. Upon reaching the kitchen area he stopped and looked around somewhat confusedly. His Master was always here before him, but he was nowhere in sight.

“Oh, don’t youz worry m’little Kindler.” She said, “He’s already had his n’gone ahead. Said he had something ta do ‘fore youz started today.” She finished with a gleam in her eye that, combined with her pet name for him, told Tenric she knew more than she was saying, and might be convinced to tell.

As he ate he considered how to ask her for more information. If she indeed had more to tell then either his Master had given her instructions on what to say, depending on his questions, or she would be deciding on her own how to answer. He hoped his Master had left instructions since that would be the easier way to get the information. His Grandmother was devilishly hard to figure out when she had a secret.

“Not like m’little Kindler to be so quiet.” She prompted him, “ ‘Specially on such an impo’tant day.” She finished with a smile.

“Well, I am kinda curious as to why he left so early.” Tenric admitted, opting for the honest, humble approach. “But I’m sure he would have told me if he wanted me to know.”

“Oh now don’t be playin’ that ol’ game with me.” She chided him, “Gam’Ma knows its eatin’ you faster than youz eaten ya food.” Again she smiled.

So much for that approach he thought. Still she did seem to want to tell him so he decided to keep the honest part and ditch the humble.

“Gam’Ma please tell me!” he said with as much enthusiasm as his tired voice could muster.

“Now wha’ makes youz think I have som’tin to tell?” She openly teased him.

“Gam’Ma!” was all he could think to say.

“Oh, youz ‘re no fun this mornin’.” She told him, pouting a little. “Ya shoulda slept some more.”

“I know, but its all just too exciting.” He offered.

“Well I’ll tell youz two things.” She began, “First he says you are to meet him at the root of the lesson after breakfast. Second is that I knows he has a surprise planned for ya.” She finished with a wink.

“Hmmm.” He thought out loud, “what kind of surprise?”

“Oh, I can’t tell ya that, ‘sides I know he wants ta be the one to tell you.”

Tenric knew his grandmother well enough to recognize that she meant what she said, so he’d have to wait on that part. The first part however seemed not too difficult to figure out. ‘The root of the lesson’ was a bit cryptic, but the words root and lesson did remind him of something. After a moment he had it.

“Ah! He wants to meet in the clearing by the fishing log.” He said, “I wonder what the surprise is?”

His grandmother just tilted her head and smiled. “Now your ol’ Gam’Ma ain’t that far gone ya know. I said he wants to be the one to tell you. No sense tryin’ ta get it outta me.”

Tenric just smiled an apology and cleared his place at the table. He had eaten only half of what he really wanted, but getting to the clearing was more important to him right now.

“Bye! See you later!” he called out over his shoulder as he ran off for the clearing."

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Tales of Tenric's Training: IV

“Yes, but I still don’t….” Tenric cut his reply short as he realized that the boulder’s shadow, which fell between he and his Master, was in the wrong position. His Master just stood and waited for it. He knew his Padawan would figure it out on his own, he always did. It took a few moments for Tenric to do the math based on the shadow. When he did get it he whistled loudly and leaned against the rock.

“You mean I was sitting there for almost three hours!” He exclaimed while rubbing his cramped leg.

“I have been here nearly an hour myself.” His Master replied, “I was beginning to worry that you might not be able to find your way back. It has happened a few times. Thankfully, though you seemed not to have strayed too far.”

“Not find my way back?” The thought sent a chill through him.

“Tenric. It was unwise of you to make such an attempt without my guidance. Curiosity is a key element in all learning, but so is discipline.” Then seeing the stricken look on his Padawan’s face he continued more softly, “Besides, it is important for us old folk to at least feel needed.”

The quiet jest in his Master’s voice calmed Tenric. He had been horrified at the thought of being lost in the Currents and not able to get back, not be himself anymore.

“Couldn’t you have helped me get back?” he asked in a slightly hurt tone.

“I was about to do just that, when you pulled that odd little maneuver and fell off the rock.” His Master replied in an amused tone. Tenric acknowledged the jab by screwing his mouth sideways and giving a ‘humph”.

“All living things are connected in the Force.” His Master intoned using his formal ‘teaching voice’. “All things have a place, a purpose, a balance.” He gestured to indicate they should sit upon the rock.

They sat. Tenric knew this was the beginning of today’s lesson so he stilled his mind and focused on burning what he was taught into his mind. He wanted to be able to go over it tonight as he did with all the lessons he felt were of special importance.

“You have chosen your place of meditation well Tenric. I wonder, though, if you understand the why behind it yet.”

“It felt right Master. I followed whisperings in the Force that led me here, and when I arrived I knew this was the place.”

His Master nodded at this. “You show remarkable promise my Padawan. Now close your eyes and let me show you the ‘why’.”

Tenric obeyed and shut his eyes, instinctually calming his mind, and centering himself as he had been taught to do. Then he felt the slightest pressure in his mind, had the merest glimmer of danger-sense from the Force. He let go of it and pictured himself as a leaf floating on the water.

Tales of Tenric's Training: V

“Heed my voice now Padawan.” Came the formal tone. “You must know your place, your purpose, and your balancing point in the Force before you can step safely into the vastness of it all.” His Master spoke now in a whisper, but Tenric heard him clearly in his mind.

“Many long Millennia ago there were those who knew and understood the currents in the Force. They were neither Sith nor Jedi, but held to the Light. It may even be that their influence began the Jedi on their monastic path. One of my old masters discovered their teachings and taught me. We devoted ourselves to learning their ways. They lived symbiotically with all life and understood how the ripples interacted. They also knew how to become one with the Force and yet retain their essence. Of all things I may teach you, these will be the most useful to you in the time to come.”

Here he paused for a moment to allow Tenric to re-center himself for he had sensed his padawan’s rising excitement.

“You have felt the connections these last few days and sensed the currents as you found your way here. Now you must remain at the center of calm I have shown you how to find, this time however you must open your eyes while doing so.”

Tenric waited a few moments to be sure his whole being was calm and centered. He could feel the rock beneath him as an anchor. The rock was his balancing point he realized, the clearing his place, and as he opened his eyes he began to understand his purpose. There before his eyes was more than just the clearing, the trees, and the grass. Ripples and waves moved all around him like heat on a summer afternoon. The waves seemed to flow and respond much, as would those of water. As he watched he could see currents moving through them, each one setting up new ripples or changing ones already there. So amazed was he that after a few moments he lost his anchor and the current, ripples, and waves vanished from view.

“Master, I am sorry.” He began, “I - -I was overwhelmed.”

“As was I the first time.” His Master smiled back. “Now let us practice a bit more shall we?”

So practice they did. As the afternoon wore on Tenric learned to maintain his Force-Vision for longer periods of time. He learned to stand and even walk while his eyes saw what he thought of as two worlds. He began to realize that there were differences between the currents that flowed from the Unifying Force and those of the Living Force. He also came to see why this clearing had seemed right to him. It was a point of resonance in the Force. The boulder acted like a jetty at the beach, calming and separating the waves.

The next day his Master showed him how to follow individual currents or ripples to see where they had originated or were headed. It was by no means easy and left Tenric so exhausted that he slept heavily and without dreams that night. By week’s end he had begun to “surf the Force”, as he called it, by establishing a cadence between his movements and breathing. In this way he was able to stay calm and centered much of the time while going about his daily activities. He was learning to see the Force active around him at all times.

In the second week his Master helped him focus on the smaller ripples caused by thoughts and intentions. Tenric learned to see another’s indecision or conviction and began to learn how Jedi could tell lie from truth. He also learned how he could use the Force to change those ripples in subtle ways. In the third week he began to see colors in the currents. His Master told him that each Jedi was unique and would find his own way to interpret the Force-Vision. Apparently for Tenric the addition of tints and hues to the waves, ripples, and currents were to be his way. The colors were subtle and did not obscure his normal sight, but they were there and he began to learn to interpret them.

It was at month’s end, though, that Tenric got his first taste of Saber dueling the ‘Jedi’ way…..

Tales of Tenric's Training: III

It was a small forest clearing deep in the heart of the Darkwood. Low brush grew in and around the roots of the trees that ringed the open space. Lush grass grew interspersed with moss and lichen, filling the clearing except for the exact center, which held a large boulder. It was made of a dark veined, grayish, rock that was easily fifteen feet around and nearly five high. Clearings such as this were rare in Darkwood, and this one was Tenric’s. Tucked up against the foothills of the A’Roupar Mountains the trees here grew so thick that only the hardiest of ground foliage could survive and the trails were little more than wide spaces between the trunks.

The ground was a combination of spongy moss and detritus that had fallen from the trees above. Many creatures lived in the wood. Most were small, some were predatory, and all could be dangerous. Tenric was not concerned, however, because he had grown up in the area and knew their ways. As long as he merely passed through and made no disturbance they remained unconcerned. Aroused, however, they could be noisy, and harassing, even threatening.

He had found the clearing yesterday while searching for a spot to make his own for meditation. Remembering his Master’s last lesson Tenric had tried to feel the ebb and flow between the Unifying and Living Force. He had walked for what seemed like hours without purpose, following his feet and the faint whisperings he sensed in the Force. He had ended up in this clearing and known immediately it was to be his place. He did not know why, just that it was the right place.

Placing the stout stave that functioned as both his walking stick and practice saber against the boulder he clambered lightly up onto the rock and sat with his back to the mountains. Closing his eyes he cleared his mind by imagining the waters of the pond and then smoothing out the ripples on the surface. It took him a few minutes to succeed and then, thus calmed, he reached out with the Force toward his distant homestead…

“Master.” He called silently, “I have found my place. Can you now find me?”

He was not sure if he had enough control to manage such a message, but an answering wave of amusement told him both message and challenge had, at least, been understood and accepted. Now he had only to wait. His Master’s teaching yesterday had changed his view on meditation and he was quite eager to begin learning more about it. It would, however, be some time before his Master could locate him so Tenric thought it would be interesting to explore his clearing a bit.

Crossing his legs he took a deep breath and let it out slowly, emptying himself as he did so. Then he reached out a hand and touched the rock upon which he sat. He could feel the warmth that the rock had absorbed from the sun along with a sense of both size and age. Apparently the rock was much larger than it appeared, with only the tip exposed. There was the faintest hint of vibration in the rock and Tenric wondered once more about the ripples his Master has spoken of. He tried to go deeper, to the bottom of the rock, but kept getting distracted by faint sensations from all around him. Focusing himself he drew his Force-sense inward until he once more felt the sun’s warmth.

With another deep breath and exhale he pushed himself farther down, or was it out, and became aware of what could only be the root system of the grass in the clearing. The Force, he assumed it was the Living Force, was present in the grass as faint echoes not unlike a chorus of Burble Toads heard from afar. He could feel a connectedness something like he did with the pond yesterday. Here and there he could sense open spots with echoes so faint he was unsure if they were real. Those must be the moss and lichen he realized.

So fascinated was he with this new adventure that he was quite unaware of both the passing of time and the arrival of his Master. An uncomfortable sensation rose in his awareness and Tenric realized his right leg was badly cramped. This had the effect of yanking him out of his trance-like state and back to himself. Just as his self-awareness returned his Force-sense went wild alerting him to an unexpected presence right on top of him!

Tenric’s body jerked convulsively as he tried to do to many things at once. It seemed that opening his eyes, extending the pained leg, calling his stave to him, and hopping off the boulder, away from the presence, into a fighting stance was asking a bit too much from his inexperienced muscles. All he succeeded in actually doing was shooting his leg out and losing his balance on the rock, falling over sideways and hitting the ground somewhat painfully, landing next to his stave.

A heavy sigh told Tenric the intruder was his Master. Turning he saw that resigned but slightly amused expression his Master seemed to direct his way at least once a day. Favoring his cramped leg, he rose and smiled a hello.

“Master! How did you find me so quickly?” he asked.

“Have you been sitting there since you called to me?” His Master asked looking concerned now.

Monday, February 11, 2008

Tales of Tenric's Training: II

©2007 David Bieri (aka: nightguy)
A Lesson Learned: a tale of Tenric’s training (working title)

Part II

They went to the edge of the pond that bordered the clearing and his Master watched as he washed the dirt and mud from his face and hands. When he had finished his Master examined the bruise that was now a deep purple. “I think we shall let you wear that one for awhile, to help you remember.”

Tenric sighed and hung his head slightly. “Yes Master.”

“Come, my young Padawan, face the water and tell me what you see.”

Tenric wanted to impress his Master so he looked very carefully. “I see fish of many sizes swimming, plants growing from the bottom their fronds swaying as with the current, sediment floating in the water from my washing, and rocks laying upon the bottom.” Then he reached out with the Force and added, “I can sense the life in the pond as it moves and feels, in some way it is all connected.” He finished.

“It is to your credit that you look deeper than the surface Padawan. For this lesson, however, it is the surface I wish you to observe.” His Master’s voice was warm and encouraging. “Tell me what you see there.”

He hid his disappointment at his Master’s apparent disregard for his insight and calmed himself. He pushed down his thoughts about the fruitlessness of watching the water. There was always a good reason for the tasks his Master asked him to do and he knew there was one now as well. He refocused his eyes and watched.

“There are skate-bugs going to and fro on the surface along with other small insects who do not sink into the water, but move upon it.” He began. “There are amphibians swimming along the surface feeding upon the insects as do the fish, and an occasional diver-bird who catches one of the amphibians or fish.” He paused, not sure what else to say.

“Yes. Very good Padawan.” His Master said, “What else do you see?”

He was very much encouraged at this kind word from his Master and bent himself to glean more from what was before him. He was silent for several moments while he watched and thought. “I can see ripples on the water, moving in all directions. Some are caused by the swimmers, some by the divers, some by the fish, while some seem to come from below or are caused by the wind above.” He finished tenuously, not sure if he had sought too hard for something to say.

“You will make a wise Jedi one day my Padawan.” His Master said with a wide smile on his face. “Yes, indeed. Come now and I will teach you about the two arms of the Force, The Unifying Force and the Living Force. It is in understanding them that true mastery begins.”

They moved to the old log usually reserved for fishing and sat with their feet dangling over the water. Tenric was both uneasy and eager. His Master’s tone indicated the sharing of deep knowledge and not just the customary “do this” or “do not do this” that was his usual fare. He was a good student and applied himself diligently to what his Master taught, but up ‘til now it had mostly been physical training or broad teachings about controlling the outward use of the Force. It seemed he had passed some test today and would now begin to learn more of what being a Jedi was really about.

Tenric sat patiently. He knew his Master valued patience above much else. He had often been told that it was the Jedi’s staunchest ally.

“Life is very like the pond and most beings like skate-bugs. Most never really go beyond the surface of it, but skim along unaware of the heights and depths that surround them. They understand only the terror of the unknown.” His Master began. “The Unifying Force is that part which spans the distances of time and space,” he waved his arm upward and out, “like the air above the pond. It surrounds all beings and all things and through it one can gain an understanding of what is happening now, where they are going, and from whence they come. Just as the diver-birds can see their prey and track where they are headed and find their nests by seeing where they have come from.”

“With the Unifying Force a Jedi can look ahead, abroad, and behind. It speaks to us in impressions and visions, sudden realizations and inevitabilities. The Unifying Force brings us peace. It is said that wisdom is to be found within the Unifying Force and the wise Jedi will seek it in meditation.” He paused and gestured out over the water.

“The Living Force is like the water itself. All life directly contacts it and is connected by it; indeed life feeds it and makes it grow like the fish and amphibians that feed on the bugs. It is indeed much as you sensed at the beginning of the lesson.” Here he paused long enough for Tenric to understand that his earlier insight had not gone unnoticed, and for him to realize the nature of the test he had passed.

“Through the Living Force you can gain understanding of why things are they way they are; what influences are at play in a situation, or being. It is with the Living Force that a Jedi can influence those around him and gain knowledge useful for both survival and resolution. Through the Living Force Jedi can heal, touch the minds of beings great and small, and affect things around them.”

Tenric was amazed at how much information his Master was giving him. For the first time many of the lessons he had been made to endure became clear to him. Pieces began falling into place like parts of a puzzle and he could see a picture emerging. His Master sat and watched as this new insight took hold of his pupil. He was, indeed, fiercely proud of Tenric’s progress and sensitivity to the Force. He was waiting now to see what his Padawan would make of this information.

Tenric thought for a few minutes on what he had been told. He knew there was a connection between the two aspects of the Force, there had to be. Each was to be pursued, sought after, and yet both seemed indispensable to the life of a Jedi. His Master had taught him that the Jedi served the will of the Force, but what was that? Which of the two would lead him to that knowledge the Jedi held so dear? He wondered if it was even possible? Was he supposed to realize that?

As he weighed these questions in his mind, each against the other, looking for their merits he found reasons in favor of both. This seemed at odds with what he expected. There should be an obvious path, a balance. His Master had always said that the Force would guide…and then he had it!

“Master!” Tenric exclaimed then, catching himself, continued in a calmer voice. “Is it not the Jedi’s place to stand in the center, between the two arms of the Force, to weigh and balance what the Force shows them and thereby discern the will of the Force? If the Force will guide us then it can do so using either the Unifying or Living Force.” He finished wide-eyed.

“Or through both together,” His Master said with the biggest grin Tenric had ever seen on his face. “The key to a Jedi’s life, to his connection with the Force, is the balance between the two arms. Stray too far toward either side and you will find yourself stepping into darkness.” He finished more somberly. “Now walk with me. It is time we headed back for lunch and I wish to speak to you of how to stay balanced.”

They rose and headed back toward the small hut they shared with Tenric’s grandmother. The walk was pleasant. Tenric listened while his Master explained about the currents in the Force.

“The Force is constantly in a state of flux, shifting and changing, much like the many different ripples you saw upon the water. All living things leave an imprint, or ripple, in the Force, as do all decisions, actions, and events. Each one leaves behind an echo that can be sensed by those in tune to the vibrations, the currents. These currents ebb and flow with the myriad changes of life. Both the Unifying and Living Force produce their own currents and also interact with each other producing new ripples. It is through meditation that a Jedi can learn to discern the differences between the currents and through wisdom that a Jedi learns to interpret them.”

Here Tenric couldn’t repress a sigh, as he found meditation to be difficult and just a bit boring as well. His Master knew this of course.

“You think meditation a waste of time my Padawan.” It was a statement, not a question. “I say to you that the core discipline of a Jedi is meditation. Indeed it is the attitude of meditation that you must cultivate if you hope to remain balanced. Physical training is a type of bodily meditation. Studying is a mental meditation. Why even sleeping could be seen as subconscious meditation…for a Jedi.”

Tenric actually snickered at this last statement, but his Master went on as though he didn’t notice.

“If you ever hope to master the various saber techniques you will need to learn not only to meditate, but to enter a meditative state even while fighting. It is the balance between the Unifying and Living Force that makes a true saber master.” He knew he had Tenric’s attention now, as one of his padawan’s highest hopes was to become a true master of the lightsaber.

“It is the unifying Force that allows a Jedi to see and sense into the future during combat, or other challenges. However, it is the Living Force that flows through a Jedi and enhances his strength, speed, and endurance in order to allow him to take advantage of that knowledge. The Living Force will also fine tune the information imparted by the Unifying Force. Just as the Unifying Force can augment the action of the Living Force.”

He could feel all this sinking into his student like a sponge. Tenric would lay awake tonight rehearsing this day’s lesson over and over until fatigue claimed him.

“All life, my Padawan, is an exercise in symbiosis. The Force is no different. A Jedi who wishes to master the Force must learn to accept this interconnectedness, and learn how to use it. The road is a long and hard one, but the rewards begin even while one is still upon it.”

They continued to the house in silence. Each lost in thoughts of what the future may hold. Tenric was given the afternoon off in order to find his own special place of meditation. His master had promised to show him how to find and recognize the currents beginning in the morning and he was eager to get started.

He did lie awake most of the night…………………..

Tales of Tenric's Training: I

©2007 David Bieri (aka: nightguy)
A Lesson Learned: a tale of Tenric’s training (working title)

Part I

Tenric crashed through the underbrush at the edge of the clearing, breathing heavily. In his right hand was the broken, jagged, end of a stout tree branch and on his left temple there was a darkening bruise. He kept glancing over his shoulder as he ran, looking in vain for signs of pursuit. He cast wildly behind him with the Force trying to both sense and repel his attacker. It was no use, however, for he was still too young and inexperienced to do much more than scare himself with his ineffectiveness.

An exposed tree root caught his foot and sent him sprawling. He jumped to his feet and turned, facing the trees defiantly. A small smile crossed his face as he wiped the dirt away. With difficulty he calmed himself and sought the center his Master had shown him. Sounds of pursuit now came from the trees and he braced himself, gripping the branch as close to the end as possible to extend his reach. It wouldn’t be enough, but that root had given him an idea. He reached out with the Force and moved his hand in a covering motion and the root faded from view.

The brush rustled at the exact spot from which he had emerged and then suddenly parted to reveal…nothing. The area seemed to grow eerily quiet as the brush settled back into place. He could feel the presence of something, but couldn’t see it. There was the faintest of odors on the wind but not enough to help him locate his attacker. He began to get nervous once more. His hasty plan to confront his pursuer now useless since there appeared to be nothing to confront.

Scanning the area, and opening himself as wide as he could to the Force, Tenric prepared for the attack he knew was coming. Suddenly there was a horrendous screech from directly behind him. He whirled and stepped quickly back away from the noise, only to trip once more over the same root. He lost his grip on the branch and it went flying away from him as he fell. He reached out with the Force and called it back, but it simply stopped in mid air and hung there. As his back hit the ground he saw the air over him shimmer slightly and out of the corner of his eye he saw two well-worn boots protruding from the hem of his Master’s robe.

“You are still surprisingly quick footed, my Padawan.” His Master said with a smile, “Quick witted too. Both will serve you well in the time to come.” He finished; referring as he usually did to some future full of foreboding he either could not, or would not explain.

“Not fair!” Tenric spurted as he rose once more.

“Not fair?” his Master chided. “It was you who resorted to illusion first. Do not complain to me of being bested at your own game.” As he finished saying this Tenric’s branch floated slowly back to him.

“But you attacked me without warning!” he complained in return. “You were supposed to be meditating this morning.” He accused.

“Have you still not learned that life very rarely follows the route we have planned for it.” His Master replied. “A Jedi must be always ready, always alert, always attuned to the Force. Otherwise you will fail, whether as ambassador, negotiator, or warrior.” He finished, “Now come and wash up.”

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