Star Wars Fanfic - The Padawan Path

Chap. 8 - Friendly Match

Roy sighed to himself as he raised his head with his eyes closed to better think over his words. He even had to berate himself for even thinking of killing the clones to keep the secret from him. What kind of Jedi would think of an atrocity like that! When he was able to regain his composure he sighed deeply, wiped that fake smile from his face, looked at the clones with tired eyes, and spoke with heavy words.

Roy: - I... I don't have a very strong bond with the force. That... is the truth... -

Hammer: - Are you serious? They thought all Jedi had it. -The clone did not know how harmful his words were to the young man.

Roy: - Like I said. Each has a different connection to the Force. Mine is somewhat... weak... to put it in some way. -

Commander: - I thought you could train so that this... connection with the Force would become stronger. -

Roy: - Yes. He trains. But it doesn't work with me. It seems I have reached my limit. -

Hammer: - If that's true... Why do you spend so many hours with the general meditating? That is supposedly to improve your link right? -

Once again, Hammer's words were full of thorns even though he didn't know it. The young man felt powerless. Knowing that no matter how hard he tried he wasn't going to improve in the way of the Force was a heavy burden for a Jedi. And involuntarily, he activated his own defense mechanism. That false smile reappeared on his face, although his eyes were no longer capable of deceiving the clones in front of him.

Roy: - Well... Who am I to question the general's teachings. He knows more than me. So I guess he has a plan in mind. -

The words couldn't sound more false, but it was enough. Even Hammer realized that they wouldn't be able to tear down the boy's facade, so he didn't insist any more. But at least they could help him a little.

Hammer: - Good. Strong or not if there's one thing I'm sure of. You are strong and a great fighter. What do you say? Do you fancy an esparrin? -

The young man's surprised face was beyond compare. But at least the challenge got him a real laugh. And of course, Roy gladly accepted the offer.

The commander was not very convinced, but he did not want to avoid it either. Besides, if they were practical there shouldn't be any problems, so he'd be the judge himself.

The three moved into a boxing ring. Hammer was in the blue corner, she was doing little jumps to warm up his body and moving his arms to get ready. He had removed his plastoid armor and was wearing only the black carbon fiber suit, gloves and boxing helmet.

Roy was in the other corner. He had refused to remove his Padawan robes, but he did wear gloves and helmet, even though they were blue. But unlike Hammer, the Padawan was calm and collected. Besides, his body was already hot enough for combat.

Commander: - Very well gentlemen. You already know the rules. No kicking or unsportsmanlike attitudes. This is a friendly, and I don't want injuries that will take them out of combat for days. Understood? -

Roy / Hammer: - Yes sir. -

Commander: - Very good. Get started! -

Hammer braced himself when the commander singled out the fight. Roy tended to be impulsive by nature, because he always jumped headlong into combat and surely this was not going to be the exception. What would be first? A left-handed shot? It sure was that. It was the closest. Or was he going to feint, then move in and swing with his right? But great was the clone's surprise when Roy remained static in his place.

Hammer: - What's wrong, brat? Are you afraid? I thought you were more awake? -You said while he was jumping.

Roy: - I don't know what image you have of me. But I'm not one to jump in without knowing my opponent. - The Padawan wasn't even moving.