The Basics of the Force

In parallel with his physical training, Scif introduced Alex to more advanced uses of the Force. This was perhaps the most crucial aspect of Alex’s development, as his connection to the Force would guide him in every aspect of his life, both in combat and outside of it. Scif emphasized that the Force was not just a tool for fighting—it was a part of Alex’s very being, and understanding it would be a lifelong journey.

Scif's philosophy was simple: training in the Force was like training the body. Just as Alex's muscles needed time to develop, so too did his connection to the Force. The weapon master guided Alex through daily meditation sessions, where he would sit quietly, feeling the energy around him, focusing on his breathing, and letting the Force flow through him. These sessions taught Alex to calm his mind, helping him to focus better during combat.

Beyond meditation, Alex practiced enhancing his body with the Force. Scif would have him run obstacle courses designed to test his agility and stamina, encouraging Alex to use the Force to boost his speed and jump higher. At first, Alex struggled to maintain the focus needed to channel the Force during physical exertion, but as time passed, it became second nature.

One day, after months of practice, Scif set up a new challenge. He told Alex to run the length of the training ground while using the Force to boost his speed. Alex took a deep breath, felt the Force surround him, and then ran. The world blurred as his feet moved faster than they ever had before, his body a blur of motion. When he finally stopped, panting with exhaustion, Scif nodded in approval. Alex had done it.

Interlude 3: The Force

One quiet evening, Alex sat cross-legged on the grassy hill outside the estate, his eyes closed and his mind focused on the Force. Scif had encouraged him to spend time alone, meditating, and feeling the currents of the Force without the distractions of combat or training.

He reached out with his senses, feeling the life around him—the soft rustle of leaves in the wind, the distant hum of insects, and the subtle pulse of energy that flowed through the world. The Force was alive, and it connected everything, from the smallest insect to the tallest tree.

As Alex breathed deeply, he felt a sudden presence nearby. He opened his eyes to see a young boy and girl watching him from a few feet away, their curious eyes wide.

"Hey," the boy said, grinning. "What are you doing?"

Alex blinked, surprised but not upset by the interruption. "I’m meditating."

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The girl giggled. "Meditating? That sounds boring. What else can you do?"

Alex smiled and stood up. "Wanna see something cool?"

The two children, who introduced themselves as Joran and Lira, watched in awe as Alex lifted a small rock into the air using the Force, making it spin and float effortlessly between them.

"Whoa!" Joran exclaimed. "How do you do that?"

Alex shrugged, still smiling. "I just feel it. It’s the Force."

From that moment on, Joran and Lira became Alex’s closest friends. They would watch his training, sometimes joining in with their own wooden swords, and they would play together in the estate’s garden. Though neither of them had the Force, they were fascinated by Alex’s abilities, and he found comfort in their company. Their presence brought a sense of normalcy to his life, reminding him that he was still just a child, despite the w

eight of his training.

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Interlude 5: Team Tactics and Fitness

As Alex’s physical strength grew, Scif introduced him to the basics of team tactics. Together with Joran and Lira, Alex would participate in mock skirmishes, learning how to work as a unit. Scif emphasized the importance of communication and trust—two things that were essential in any team.

"You can’t do everything on your own," Scif reminded them. "A good leader knows how to rely on their teammates."

Alex, Joran, and Lira would face off against other trainees in these mock battles, using wooden swords and blasters. At first, they struggled to coordinate their efforts, but as time passed, they began to function as a team. Alex would often use the Force to sense incoming attacks, warning Joran and Lira before they were struck.

Beyond combat training, Alex’s physical fitness also improved under Scif’s watchful eye. He ran laps around the training grounds, practiced climbing walls, and performed various strength exercises designed to build his endurance and agility. It wasn’t easy, but Alex was determined to push through, knowing that every drop of sweat would make him s

tronger.

Academics and Balance

While combat training was a significant part of Alex’s life, his parents also made sure that he received a well-rounded education. Tutors were brought in to teach Alex the basics: mathematics, reading, writing, and science. Though these subjects were less exciting than swinging a sword or practicing Teräs Käsi, Alex took to them with the same enthusiasm. His curiosity about the world was boundless, and his tutors were often impressed by how quickly he grasped new concepts.

One tutor, a woman named Maris, was particularly fond of teaching Alex about the stars. She would often sit with him by the large window in the estate’s library, pointing out constellations and telling stories about different planets in the galaxy. Alex loved these lessons, dreaming of one day exploring the stars himself.

The balance between his combat training and academic lessons was essential. His parents believed that a strong mind was just as important as a strong body. Alex’s days were filled with a mix of physical exertion and intellectual growth, and though it was exhausting at times, he flourished in both areas.

THE END OF THE TRAINING ARC

As Alex continued to grow, his bond with Scif deepened. The weapon master treated Alex not just as a student, but as someone with great potential. Scif was impressed by how quickly Alex learned, especially given his young age.

One evening, after a long day of training, Scif spoke quietly to Alex’s parents.

"Your son is remarkable," he said, his voice full of admiration. "In all my years of teaching, I’ve never seen someone so young grasp these concepts so quickly."

Alex’s father, pride shining in his eyes, nodded. "We’ve always known he was special."

His mother, on the other hand, looked worried. "I just don’t want him to get hurt, Scif. He’s still so young."

Scif nodded in understanding. "I’ll take care of him, milady. I would never push him beyond his limits. But I believe Alex has the potential to become something great. If we nurture that potential, who knows what he might accomplish."

Alex, overhearing the conversation from the next room, felt a surge of determination. He knew his path wouldn’t be easy, but with Scif’s guidance, his parents’ support, and the companionship of his new friends, he was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.