Ether's Judgement Chapter III
Embrace who you are, imperfections and all, Alyscia said, her eyes shining with encouragement. Use this time to reflect, to grow. Recognize the Force in every moment, whether of joy or pain. Reconnect with your true self, and let that guide you.
He inhaled deeply, feeling the familiar pulse of the Force begin to stir within him once more. It was like a long-lost friend returning, offering solace and strength. Caltin raised his head, determination igniting in his heart. He looked at his daughter, a smile forming on his face.
I remember saying that to you. How did I get such a wonderful daughter?
Now it was her turn to smile.
I had a great teacher, and an even better father.
It’s not over, is it? he asked, a hint of hope blossoming.
No, Father. It’s just the beginning, Alyscia replied with a smile, the light surrounding them shimmering with potential. Together, we’ll navigate this journey. You have much left to accomplish, and the path to healing is yours to reclaim.
With renewed resolve, Caltin felt ready to embrace the next chapter, knowing he wouldn’t walk it alone. Something about it all just did not make sense. Why am I here? It’s just not making sense to me. “The old Caltin” “Possible futures…”?
Caltin, she said softly, her voice echoing with both love and sorrow. You’re here with me, but you need to understand... you’re dead. The dreadnaught killed you.
His heart ached at the revelation, and a palpable sense of disbelief washed over him again. No... it can’t be. I fought to protect you, to protect everyone. This can’t be the end.
Alyscia stepped closer, her eyes reflecting compassion and understanding. You fought bravely, Father, but the battle was lost. You sacrificed so much for the Light. Now, it’s time to let go of that, of what happened. It was not a mistake for you to do any of this, everything that happened brought you here, but it is not over. Your journey doesn’t end here; it transforms.
Caltin’s mind raced with memories of the conflict, the sounds of clashing lightsabers, and the chilling roar of the dreadnaught. He felt a mix of anger and acceptance brewing within him, the weight of his choices heavy on his soul. But there was something in Alyscia's gaze that drew him to her, like a beacon guiding him through the darkness.
What will happen to those I left behind if I fail? he asked, his voice trembling.
They will carry your legacy, your memory," she replied, her smile radiant yet tinged with sadness. It’s not the end for them. You will always be with them, watching over. The Force binds us all, even in death. You won't fail though, if I thought you would, I would not have pulled you here.
With each word, Caltin felt the truth sink in. In this ether, he could feel the presence of the Force, connecting him to everything he loved and fought for. The pain of loss was immense, but beneath it lay a profound sense of peace. One thing that did not make sense to him up to this point was Alyscia's part to play in all of this. Now it made sense, she was being her father's daughter and not accepting what seemed bound to happen. If she couldn't carry his burden for him, she could carry him until he could.
Guide them, he whispered, his resolve hardening. Help them carry on.
Alyscia nodded, her spirit shimmering in the light. Always, Father. Just as I’ll guide you in this new existence. Embrace it, for together, we will inspire hope in the next generation.
As the light enveloped him, Caltin understood that while he may have lost his physical form, his journey had only just begun. He would face this new reality with his daughter by his side, ready to protect the legacy they cherished. Caltin struggled to grasp the reality of his situation, his thoughts a jumbled whirlwind. How could he have failed to dodge a simple shot? A strike that seemed so trivial yet had cost him everything. The shame gnawed at him, mingling with the pain of loss and confusion.
How could I have let this happen? I’ve trained for years... I should have been able to sense it coming. Alyscia regarded him with a mixture of compassion and wisdom, her presence steady and reassuring.
You were losing your connection to the Force, Father. The energy that binds us all—it was slipping away from you. That dreadnaught’s shot was just a reminder of what you had let go, and what you need to let go, she said gently.
I still can’t get past this, I thought I had control, Caltin replied, frustration rippling through his words. I thought I could manage it this time. I felt strong. I—
You relied too much on that change, Alyscia interrupted, her voice firm yet soothing. What transformed you initially—the pain, the anger—it was a temporary fix. A band-aid placed over a wound that you never really healed. It was never meant to last forever. You are not alone in this, it would have went this way with anyone who experienced such a transformation. This is just the after-effect and reminder of the cost of "power".
He looked down, grappling with the realization that stung like fresh wounds. I became dependent on it... a crutch? His voice wavered as he considered the implications.
Yes,” she affirmed softly. Even if unwittingly, you allowed it to dictate your actions. It distorted your perception, made you doubt the very skills you trained to hone. You’ve faced darkness before; you know better. True strength comes from embracing the entirety of the Force, not just the parts that make you feel powerful.
Caltin felt the weight of her words settle in his heart. The journey he had taken, the choices he made—they were his own to own, but they had created a distance between him and the Light. The realization that his past missteps had cost him so dearly was painful, but there was a flicker of hope within those lessons. So what do I do now? he asked, rare vulnerability etched in his voice.
“Remember who you were? How you embraced who you are, imperfections and all, Alyscia said, her eyes shining with encouragement. Use this time to reflect, to grow. Recognize the Force in every moment, whether of joy or pain. Reconnect with your true self, and let that guide you.
He inhaled deeply, feeling the familiar pulse of the Force begin to stir within him once more. It was like a long-lost friend returning, offering solace and strength. Caltin raised his head, determination igniting in his heart. So, remember what it was like back then? Be the man I was then? It’s not over, is it? he asked, a hint of hope blossoming.
No, Father. It’s just the beginning, Alyscia replied with a smile, the light surrounding them shimmering with potential. Together, we’ll navigate this journey. You have much left to accomplish, and the path to healing is yours to reclaim. I lived a full and fruitful life, I have you to thank for that, and this is my way of doing so. With renewed resolve, Caltin felt ready to embrace the next chapter, knowing he wouldn’t walk it alone.
He inhaled deeply, feeling the familiar pulse of the Force begin to stir within him once more. It was like a long-lost friend returning, offering solace and strength. Caltin raised his head, determination igniting in his heart. He looked at his daughter, a smile forming on his face.
I remember saying that to you. How did I get such a wonderful daughter?
Now it was her turn to smile.
I had a great teacher, and an even better father.
It’s not over, is it? he asked, a hint of hope blossoming.
No, Father. It’s just the beginning, Alyscia replied with a smile, the light surrounding them shimmering with potential. Together, we’ll navigate this journey. You have much left to accomplish, and the path to healing is yours to reclaim.
With renewed resolve, Caltin felt ready to embrace the next chapter, knowing he wouldn’t walk it alone. Something about it all just did not make sense. Why am I here? It’s just not making sense to me. “The old Caltin” “Possible futures…”?
Caltin, she said softly, her voice echoing with both love and sorrow. You’re here with me, but you need to understand... you’re dead. The dreadnaught killed you.
His heart ached at the revelation, and a palpable sense of disbelief washed over him again. No... it can’t be. I fought to protect you, to protect everyone. This can’t be the end.
Alyscia stepped closer, her eyes reflecting compassion and understanding. You fought bravely, Father, but the battle was lost. You sacrificed so much for the Light. Now, it’s time to let go of that, of what happened. It was not a mistake for you to do any of this, everything that happened brought you here, but it is not over. Your journey doesn’t end here; it transforms.
Caltin’s mind raced with memories of the conflict, the sounds of clashing lightsabers, and the chilling roar of the dreadnaught. He felt a mix of anger and acceptance brewing within him, the weight of his choices heavy on his soul. But there was something in Alyscia's gaze that drew him to her, like a beacon guiding him through the darkness.
What will happen to those I left behind if I fail? he asked, his voice trembling.
They will carry your legacy, your memory," she replied, her smile radiant yet tinged with sadness. It’s not the end for them. You will always be with them, watching over. The Force binds us all, even in death. You won't fail though, if I thought you would, I would not have pulled you here.
With each word, Caltin felt the truth sink in. In this ether, he could feel the presence of the Force, connecting him to everything he loved and fought for. The pain of loss was immense, but beneath it lay a profound sense of peace. One thing that did not make sense to him up to this point was Alyscia's part to play in all of this. Now it made sense, she was being her father's daughter and not accepting what seemed bound to happen. If she couldn't carry his burden for him, she could carry him until he could.
Guide them, he whispered, his resolve hardening. Help them carry on.
Alyscia nodded, her spirit shimmering in the light. Always, Father. Just as I’ll guide you in this new existence. Embrace it, for together, we will inspire hope in the next generation.
As the light enveloped him, Caltin understood that while he may have lost his physical form, his journey had only just begun. He would face this new reality with his daughter by his side, ready to protect the legacy they cherished. Caltin struggled to grasp the reality of his situation, his thoughts a jumbled whirlwind. How could he have failed to dodge a simple shot? A strike that seemed so trivial yet had cost him everything. The shame gnawed at him, mingling with the pain of loss and confusion.
How could I have let this happen? I’ve trained for years... I should have been able to sense it coming. Alyscia regarded him with a mixture of compassion and wisdom, her presence steady and reassuring.
You were losing your connection to the Force, Father. The energy that binds us all—it was slipping away from you. That dreadnaught’s shot was just a reminder of what you had let go, and what you need to let go, she said gently.
I still can’t get past this, I thought I had control, Caltin replied, frustration rippling through his words. I thought I could manage it this time. I felt strong. I—
You relied too much on that change, Alyscia interrupted, her voice firm yet soothing. What transformed you initially—the pain, the anger—it was a temporary fix. A band-aid placed over a wound that you never really healed. It was never meant to last forever. You are not alone in this, it would have went this way with anyone who experienced such a transformation. This is just the after-effect and reminder of the cost of "power".
He looked down, grappling with the realization that stung like fresh wounds. I became dependent on it... a crutch? His voice wavered as he considered the implications.
Yes,” she affirmed softly. Even if unwittingly, you allowed it to dictate your actions. It distorted your perception, made you doubt the very skills you trained to hone. You’ve faced darkness before; you know better. True strength comes from embracing the entirety of the Force, not just the parts that make you feel powerful.
Caltin felt the weight of her words settle in his heart. The journey he had taken, the choices he made—they were his own to own, but they had created a distance between him and the Light. The realization that his past missteps had cost him so dearly was painful, but there was a flicker of hope within those lessons. So what do I do now? he asked, rare vulnerability etched in his voice.
“Remember who you were? How you embraced who you are, imperfections and all, Alyscia said, her eyes shining with encouragement. Use this time to reflect, to grow. Recognize the Force in every moment, whether of joy or pain. Reconnect with your true self, and let that guide you.
He inhaled deeply, feeling the familiar pulse of the Force begin to stir within him once more. It was like a long-lost friend returning, offering solace and strength. Caltin raised his head, determination igniting in his heart. So, remember what it was like back then? Be the man I was then? It’s not over, is it? he asked, a hint of hope blossoming.
No, Father. It’s just the beginning, Alyscia replied with a smile, the light surrounding them shimmering with potential. Together, we’ll navigate this journey. You have much left to accomplish, and the path to healing is yours to reclaim. I lived a full and fruitful life, I have you to thank for that, and this is my way of doing so. With renewed resolve, Caltin felt ready to embrace the next chapter, knowing he wouldn’t walk it alone.
