The Shadows Star: Book 2

1: Stepping Stones

29 BBY - 7 years before Episode II

Three years passed since Sombra's departure from Naboo. In that time, she had traveled to various corners of the galaxy, honing her skills and expanding her understanding of the Force under the guidance of Master Plo Koon. The bond between them had grown strong, and she had grown to love being Plo's pup.

Her training had progressed remarkably well, in part due to the foundation she had built during her time with Maul. The dark past that had once haunted her now served as a stepping stone for her growth as a Jedi. Plo Koon had recognized her potential from the start, and their training had deepened her connection to the Force, allowing her to wield it with increasing mastery.

She was 12 years old, eager, and determined to learn the skills that Master Plo was imparting to her. Their training sessions often took place during the night, when the city's hustle and bustle provided the perfect cover for their activities.

Plo Koon, his serene face partially obscured by his traditional Kel Dor mask, regarded Sombra with a combination of pride and expectation. He had recognized her potential early on and had taken it upon himself to mold her into a capable undercover operative.

Their training encompassed a myriad of skills, from perfecting accents and dialects in various languages to understanding the cultural nuances of different planetary systems. She soaked up this knowledge like a sponge, her thirst for learning matched only by her determination to become the best Jedi she could be.

As weeks turned into months, they embarked on countless missions to diverse worlds across the galaxy. Each assignment presented its challenges and opportunities for growth. Together, they assumed different identities—bodyguards, traders, criminals, and more.

On Naboo, they posed as diplomats attending an interplanetary conference, gathering information discreetly while engaging in polite conversations with dignitaries. On Tatooine, they blended in with the bustling crowds of a local market, observing the ebb and flow of the criminal underworld. And on Coruscant, they infiltrated a hidden nightclub, rubbing shoulders with smugglers and information brokers to extract valuable intelligence.

Throughout their missions, Plo Koon was both a mentor and a partner, guiding Sombra with his wisdom and experience. He taught her to read people's body language, and subtle cues, and adapt to unforeseen circumstances. He instilled in her the importance of patience, observation, and remaining true to her Jedi principles even when shrouded in deception.

As she faced challenges and setbacks, he provided guidance and encouragement. He stressed the significance of learning from mistakes and turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. And in moments of doubt, he reminded her that their undercover work was not about losing herself, but rather about gaining a deeper understanding of the galaxy's complexities.

Under his tutelage, she honed her skills as an espionage expert. She learned to thrive in the shadows, to adapt to ever-changing circumstances, and to extract information without compromising her core values. With each mission, her confidence and expertise grew, solidifying her position as a formidable asset to the Jedi Order.

During her rigorous training and covert missions, Sombra found solace in occasional escapes from the confines of the Jedi Temple. These moments of freedom allowed her to experience the galaxy as a regular person, to immerse herself in the diversity and vibrancy of Coruscant's various levels.

Dressed in various disguises, Sombra ventured into the bustling streets of the city planet. She mingled with beings from all walks of life, striking up conversations, observing their daily routines, and even participating in activities she had only read about. She cheered at podraces, laughed at comedies in the theater district, and marveled at the street performances that showcased talents from around the galaxy.