Star Jumper

Author's Note: May the 4th be with you! How can I write a Star Wars story and not post a chapter today? Enjoy this one a few days early.

Season 1: Episode 4.1 - Personal Reality

Stardate: 4 1 1 6 0. 7

Earth Standard Date: February 28, 2364

Galactic Date: 19th Day of the Second Month, 3956 BBY

Location: Upper City, Taris, Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic Continuity.

Tyson brought the stolen Sith Interceptor into dock at the Taris Upper City Spaceport. As it glided into an open berth, the sleek lines of the Sith ship stood out starkly from the more utilitarian Republic vessels surrounding it. The spaceport workers who guided him in had taken one look at the Interceptor's ominous silhouette and hastily waved Tyson through without demanding the usual docking fees.

Fear of the Sith hung heavy over Taris. Tyson could see it in the guarded looks the locals gave him as he debarked, and could feel it radiating from them like heat from a stovetop. The Tarisians kept their heads down and their mouths shut, not wanting to draw the attention of Tyson or others like him.

After securing the ship, Tyson considered his options. This spaceport, as Q suggested, was a facility where he could import and upgrade starships. Additionally, he could purchase ships outright if he wanted.

[Free] Import (Spaceships)

Instead of choosing a Ship Type and Size for purchase, import one space-worthy vessel you already own. Its default Section Size and Rating are that of a ship of the corresponding size. At your choice, ship parts you buy can either replace pre-existing parts of the original ship or exist in addition to them.

Sith Interceptor (Spaceships)

A small nimble starfighter used as the standard attack craft in the Sith fleet. It seats a single pilot, is armed with twin laser cannons as well as proton torpedoes, and is powered by a twin ion drive.

Tyson surveyed the small selection of free options available for outfitting any ship. His gaze lingered on the Bridge addition. This particular upgrade would transform the cockpit into an expanded bridge, allowing for additional officers to assist with operating the vessel. Though the Sith Interceptor was designed as a single-pilot fighter craft, Tyson recognized the value in being able to accommodate extra personnel.

After careful consideration, he decided to install the expanded bridge on his Sith Interceptor. The Bridge now offered standing room for up to twelve people, though it would be cramped. While not intended as living space, in a crisis the additional capacity could prove useful. The expanded bridge would not compromise the Interceptor's capabilities; it was still a fast, agile ship ideal for rapid strikes.

[Free] Bridge (Starship Upgrade)

A central control room where all the important decisions are made. You may choose the bridge's location on the ship. Comes with a big screen to display the tactical data or a direct view into space.

Now inside the new bridge of the Sith Interceptor, Tyson produced the card that represented his Inter-Reality Connecting Door, he held it aloft, and a doorframe materialized upon the wall, leading to his Personal Reality.

Tyson stood in the empty Warehouse, grappling with the challenges before him. The 147 Vulcans recovering in the Medical Bay weighed heavily on his thoughts. He had brought them here to save them from the damage caused by the Trellium-D exposure, but now he found himself facing a new set of obstacles. The bay's advanced technology promised to heal the Vulcans' neurological damage within a week. But their recovery would be just the beginning.

Tyson's jaw tightened as he contemplated the predicament before him. Offloading the responsibility of the 147 Vulcans onto Captain Archer and the crew of the NX-01 Enterprise would be an unwise decision. From what he recalled, the ship only accommodated eighty or so crewmembers. Adding nearly double that number in Vulcans would strain the Enterprise's resources to the breaking point. They didn't have the luxury of replicators like the Enterprise-D. Moreover, the relationship between humans and Vulcans during that era remained strained at best. Archer's crew was already burdened with the dire mission of locating the Xindi, a hostile race that had attacked Earth, killing millions. They could ill afford the distraction of integrating the Vulcans.

The responsibility of the Vulcans fell squarely on Tyson's shoulders. He had saved them from the Trellium-D asteroid field, something that shouldn't have happened according to his memories of the canon timeline, and now he needed to follow through and provide for their needs; shelter, sustenance, and basic amenities. The empty Warehouse offered space but little in the way of comfort.

"I brought them here," he murmured, his voice, though low, carried through the cavernous chamber. "They're my responsibility."

Tyson accessed the interface, searching for solutions. He saw numerous options, but each came with a cost in Reality Points. He cursed under his breath, realizing that his current supply of RP was inadequate to solve all his issues. The Vulcans were only his first problem. The doors that connected his Personal Reality to the other realms he had visited were his second. The Inter-Reality Connecting Doors to the NX-Enterprise, and the Knights of the Old Republic universes. Currently, the doors couldn't even be locked. Unacceptable. He needed to find a way to secure these doors. To protect not only the Vulcans that would likely be inhabiting his Reality but also ensure the integrity of his Reality and the ones it connected.

The interface offered a range of options. Tyson weighed the costs and benefits of each. He knew that he couldn't afford to compromise on safety, but he also couldn't spend all of his Reality Points on security measures alone. With this in mind, he selected several Personal Reality upgrades.

Reality Points: 550

[50 RP] Key Link (Personal Reality)

With this, you can now close the door while you are in the Personal Reality and use your key in a special podium in the entryway to link your Personal Reality Door to any door in your current Host Reality that you've previously used your Access Key on.

[150 RP] High-Security Inter-Reality Connecting Doors Upgrade (Personal Reality) 

Exactly like Inter-Reality Connecting Doors, except they can be locked and Force Field protected.

[100 RP] Housing Complex (Personal Reality)

With this option, you gain enough housing for every sapient you have in your retinue. Each adult or juvenile among those beings you allow to live permanently (or semi-permanently) in your Personal Reality gets their own personal bedroom. Personal rooms can be merged if all the occupants so desire. Each personal room defaults to 5 meters by 4 meters by 3 meters. The standard unit of this Complex is the "Apartment". By default, each "Apartment" contains four "bedrooms" when created, a kitchen & dining room, two full bathrooms with combination shower/bathtubs, two general-purpose shared rooms (offices, living rooms, game rooms), a few small closets, and a pantry. This housing is not luxurious by any means, but the individual rooms tailor themselves to the general likes of their owner and come with basic but not quality furniture. Non-bedrooms are on the small side but large enough to function. Floors are basic linoleum and walls are basic low-grade paint. Appliances and fixtures are pretty bare bones and the walls are little more than plywood and wood frame. The bedrooms don't have closets.

[50 RP] Basic Nutrition (Personal Reality)

This option provides a basic, if minimalist, food delivery for you and all your followers. This delivery comes once a week and is the kind of thing you'd buy on a very strict budget; Ramen, Peanut Butter, Generic Cereal, Dry Beans, Eggs, Tofu, Fresh Common Fruits & Veggies, Canned Fruits & Veggies, Dry Pasta, Salt, Pepper, Milk, Bottled Water, Rice, Flour, Butter, Barley, etc. Essentially 50 dollars purchasing power a week per person.

Tyson considered his options carefully, weighing the costs against the benefits of each upgrade for his Personal Reality. Closing the door that connected his realm to the universe he was connected to was a reasonable expense at 50 RP, providing a basic level of security and privacy. The thought of leaving that door open to whatever might wander in from other universes was unacceptable. No, lockable doors were a necessity, even if they drained a significant portion of his resources. Upgrading the two Inter-Reality Connecting Doors to be High-Security would run 300 RP, more than half of his current total, but it was a needed expense.

Next, Tyson focused on a living space for the Vulcans. The Housing Complex was bare-bones living quarters devoid of any semblance of comfort. But they were Private bedrooms that would scale in number to accommodate any Vulcans or guests he might invite into his Reality, for the reasonable cost of 100 RP. A barracks-style arrangement was cheaper at 50 RP but was limited by the size of his Personal Reality. The barracks could host all the Vulcans, but the extra cost for private rooms seemed a small price to pay for a modicum of personal space and endlessly increasing rooms.

Sustenance was another concern. The Basic Nutrition plan, while minimalist, would at least provide the essentials. 50 RP was reasonable to secure these provisions. While it might not be the most appetizing, like the Housing Complex, it scaled regardless of the number of people within his Personal Reality.

Utilities, however, posed a greater challenge. Water and electricity would each require 100 RP, a luxury he couldn't afford at the moment. The bottled water included in the nutrition plan would suffice for now, but functioning facilities would have to wait until he acquired more Reality Points. When he did, Water would be prioritized, since it would add bathrooms with toilets and showers to the Housing Complex.

If he purchased all the desired improvements, a mere 50 RP would remain in reserve. Not enough to make a difference in an emergency. Yet, none of the upgrades he selected would be wasted on short-term solutions. They were investments, purchases that would retain their value and could be upgraded in the future. Tyson accepted the costs.

Reality Points: 50

Tyson accessed the control panel, closing the connecting door between the Sith Interceptor and his Personal Reality. The door sealed, cutting him from the outside world.

He crossed to the Medical Bay. Inside, he found Vicky keeping watch over Alysia as the Jedi Knight sat on one of the diagnostic beds. Tyson approached and greeted them warmly. "Knight Rahn, it's good to see you up and about."

Alysia sat up gingerly. "Thank you for allowing me to make use of your medical facilities. Although I was gravely injured, I haven't felt this healthy in quite some time."

Tyson accepted her thanks with a nod. He turned to face the women and invited them to accompany him on a tour. "Come on, I'll show you around." and they followed in his wake as he led the way back to the antechamber.

The small anteroom opened up into the cavernous warehouse. He led the way into the expansive and empty warehouse. With a sweeping gesture, Tyson indicated the vast room, bare shelves stretching out into the distance. "As you can see, the storage area is completely empty." His tone held a trace of apology for the barren surroundings.

Approaching a nondescript door nestled unobtrusively into the wall of the antechamber, Tyson pulled it open and beckoned for Vicky and Alysia to follow him through. The transition from the spartan warehouse to the scene beyond was startling in its contrast. They found themselves standing in a carpeted hallway lined with numbered doors, reminiscent of a mid-range hotel corridor. The door to the antechamber clicked shut behind them, sealing off the view back into the warehouse.

"This is the Housing Complex," Tyson explained, his voice carrying slightly in the muffled quiet of the hallway. "They're suites, but each of us has a private bedroom here."

"Is this your ship or homeworld?" Alysia asked curiously.

Tyson's response was cryptic, "You could say that it's my world," he murmured, then redirected the conversation with a question of his own. "Does your galaxy have a name?"

"Skyriver," Alysia replied softly, confused that he lacked such basic knowledge.

The name struck Tyson as almost poetic in its beauty. "Skyriver," he repeated appreciatively, "That is a lovely name."

Tyson led the way into the housing complex's suite. He opened the cabinets, hoping to find something to offer his guests.

"I'm afraid there's no running water," Tyson said regretfully, his eyes scanning the kitchen. "But we have some basic food and bottled water stocked up."

Vicky stepped forward, her voice filled with eagerness. "Allow me to assist, Master. ."

Tyson smiled at Vicky. "That would be great, Vicky. Thank you."

Vicky rummaged through the cabinets, gathering an array of canned goods, vegetables, dried pasta, and bottled water. Tyson motioned for Alysia to take a seat at the small kitchen table while the droid worked. He quickly realized that while Vicky's medical knowledge was extensive, her culinary skills left much to be desired. Tyson took the lead, opening cans and measuring out portions of the dried pasta. Vicky filled a pot with bottled water and set it on the stove, the blue flame flickering to life beneath it. As the pasta began to boil, Tyson turned his attention to the vegetables. He drained the liquids from the cans, chopping and slicing the ingredients with deft strokes of his knife. The vegetables sizzled as they hit the hot pan, filling the air with an enticing aroma. Tyson stirred the mixture with a wooden spoon, combining the flavors.

The simple meal's scent wafted through the kitchen, and Alysia's stomach growled in anticipation. After the disaster of the Endar Spire, the prospect of a hot dinner was a welcome relief. When the food was ready, Tyson divided the pasta and vegetable mixture onto three plates, placing them on the table before himself, Vicky, and Alysia.

Alysia looked down at the steaming plate before her, a grateful smile on her face. "This looks great, Tyson. Thank you."

Tyson noticed Vicky's plate sat untouched, the food cooling as they ate. Concern flickered across his face and he asked gently, "Vicky, are you not hungry?"

The droid shook her head, reassuring, "I do not require food, Master. My power cells are still fully charged from my time on the Endar Spire. I can maintain operations for several more days yet."

Tyson furrowed his brow, thinking aloud as he twirled pasta around his fork. "But what if your power runs out? There are no electrical outlets here to recharge from."

"If necessary, I can consume food as fuel, like a primitive combustion engine. It is inefficient but workable," Vicky responded pragmatically. "I am also capable of breaking down biomass to convert it into the drugs and chemicals required for medical treatment." She stated this matter-of-factly, without a hint of self-consciousness. "These medicines can then be dispersed in solid form from my side compartment, or in liquid form from my mouth, or nipples."

The last part of her explanation caught Tyson completely off guard. He inhaled sharply, nearly choking on the water he was sipping. Sputtering, he set down his bottle as incredulous laughter bubbled up. "What?" he exclaimed.

Unfazed by his reaction, Vicky simply stated, "I'm a nurse droid," as if that fact alone justified her surprising capabilities.

As they finished eating, Alysia redirected the conversation with a line of soft inquiry, wanting to understand the depth of Tyson's experience. "You said that you had never felt the Force before today. Are you at all familiar with the teachings of the Jedi or the Sith?"

Tyson paused, feeling as though he stood at a crossroads. As a self-professed Star Wars nerd, he possessed knowledge of the lore surrounding the galaxy far, far away. Yet he was aware there may be differences between the fictional narratives and the tangible reality of the Old Republic that Alysia inhabited. Opting for nuanced honesty, he replied, "Somewhat." The answer acknowledged his knowledge while recognizing its potential inaccuracy in a world where the Force was not just part of a story.

Alysia's expression grew thoughtful as she chose her next words. "The Force," she began slowly, "is an energy field that connects and flows through all living things, binding the galaxy together." She paused to gather her thoughts before continuing her explanation. "The Force guides us, lending wisdom and insight if we open ourselves to it. The Jedi believe in living in harmony with the Force, following its currents." Alysia's gaze drifted away briefly as she reflected on her own experiences. "Jedi are trained from childhood to sense the Force and interact with it. Through years of meditation and reflection, we learn to listen to its subtle promptings and feel its ebbs and flows. This deep connection is the source of our abilities."

Turning her focus back to Tyson, Alysia continued, "But the Force is more than just the abilities it grants us. It is about understanding and responsibility. The Jedi Code teaches us not to exploit the Force for personal gain, but to serve and maintain balance in the galaxy. The Force guides our actions, shapes our decisions, and influences how we interact with the world around us. To a Jedi, it is a way of life."

Alysia's piercing gaze locked onto Tyson's. She wanted her next words to sink in, to be truly understood. "What I'm about to say. I tell you, not to shame you, but to provide context for your actions on the Endar Spire. In that corridor, you saved my life, and for that, you have my eternal gratitude. But in that moment, I felt you channel your emotions into the Force; your concern, and your fear of my demise. You used those feelings to manipulate the Force, bending it to your will. The Force acquiesced, knocking me away from danger, ensuring I survived." She took a deep, steadying breath, seemingly struggling with how to broach this delicate subject. Her furrowed brow and taut posture revealed the complexity of the situation weighing on her. "Wielding the Force in such a manner goes against the Jedi way. Harnessing one's emotions, compelling the Force to do one's bidding... this is the path of the Sith." Her tone softened as she continued, intending not to accuse but to enlighten, "I do not fault you for how you utilized the Force at that moment, nor for saving me. Many young Jedi, and those untrained in the ways of the Force, will tap into the Force in times of dire need, unintentionally, as you did."

Alysia allowed Tyson a moment to absorb her words before proceeding, knowing he would need time to process the nuance of what she was trying to convey. "Jedi Padawan typically begin their training as younglings. Strong attachments can lead to powerful emotions that cloud judgment and spur actions. The Jedi preach detachment. To an outsider, it may seem cold, but the intention is not to suppress emotions but to understand them and exert control over them. To prevent them from dictating our actions."

Her explanation provided not just insight into using or rather utilizing the Force, but a glimpse into the Jedi philosophy.

"The Force flows through and binds all living things together," Alysia continued. "How we choose to connect with it, to harness it, speaks volumes about the path we walk and the content of our character. Your actions were driven by an innate desire to protect. That hints at a formidable potential for good within you. But you must be mindful of your emotions."

The remnants of their modest meal lay scattered across the table as the group rose from their seats. They filed into the suite's sparse living area, settling onto the plain couches situated around a small fireplace that provided the room's sole entertainment. Tyson sank into the lumpy cushions, a question still lingering in his thoughts. Alysia's words had illuminated glimmers of the Jedi's philosophy, yet there was much that still confused him.

When Alysia had been in danger, fear, hope, and determination had granted Tyson the strength to push her out of the way in time to save her. He recalled the power that surged through his veins in that desperate moment. It was his refusal to see harm befall her, that had channeled that power. How then could the Jedi condemn emotion when it could wield such might for good?

Tyson turned towards Alysia, his brow furrowed. "You said my actions were driven by a desire to protect, that it hinted at the potential for good within me. But the Jedi warn against emotion and attachments. If my emotions gave me the strength to save you, why would the Jedi suppress them?"

Alysia considered the question, taking a thoughtful sip from her water bottle as she gathered her response. "Emotions are powerful forces," she finally said, "As you saw, they can lend us remarkable strength in times of need. But they can also be unpredictable, leading us astray into actions we may come to regret."

She swirled the contents of her bottle idly, "Emotions like fear, anger, and hatred are paths to the dark side of the Force. They can override reason and provoke harmful deeds, bringing injury to others as well as ourselves. The Jedi Code teaches balance, to act with wisdom and compassion rather than being driven by immediate passions." Alysia's eyes found Tyson's again through the dancing firelight. "The strength you found in emotion to save me was born of the desire to protect, a fundamentally good impulse. But the Force demands discipline. Without it, even well-intended acts can lead to unforeseen and undesirable consequences. That is why Jedi are trained to be mindful of their emotions, to feel them yet not let them dictate action."

Shadows flickered across Alysia's features as she leaned back, the firelight playing over her pensive face. "At its core, it is about finding balance. Emotions are not inherently wrong. They are part of who we are. But to use the Force responsibly, for the greater good, we must understand those emotions and master them, rather than allow them to master us."

Tyson tilted his head, curiosity plain on his face. "You mentioned the Jedi Code a few times. What exactly is that?" Tyson knew of the Jedi Code, but he failed to recall their exact wording.

Alysia explained, "The Jedi Code is a set of principles that guides our actions, our decisions, and how we live with the Force." She recited the code, each line delivered with a reverence that underscored its deep importance to her.

"There is no emotion, there is peace.

There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.

There is no passion, there is serenity.

There is no chaos, there is harmony.

There is no death, there is the Force."

She paused after reciting the code, allowing its weighty words to settle between them. To Alysia, the Jedi Code was far more than a mantra; it was the bedrock upon which she had built her life. After a thoughtful moment, she continued explaining, "The Code teaches balance, both within ourselves and throughout the galaxy. As Jedi, we feel emotion like anyone else, but we must not let it seize control of our actions. Instead, we cultivate inner peace."

Delving deeper, Alysia continued to explain each line of the code. "By rejecting ignorance and pursuing knowledge, we make informed choices. Passion can motivate us to act, but unchecked it leads to recklessness and worse. So we strive for serenity in all endeavors. Chaos represents the disorder in the galaxy and within ourselves that we aim to soothe, bringing harmony wherever possible. And the final line, states death is part of the Force. It reminds us not to fear our end, for it is simply a transition, a shifting of energy within the living Force that surrounds and binds us."

Tyson's brow furrowed as he mulled over Alysia's explanation of the Force. "So you're telling me the Force intended for you to die in that corridor?" He shook his head, the memory of blaster fire and chaos replaying in his mind. "And through my emotions, I bent the will of the Force itself, changing its intention and saving your life?" A bitter chuckle escaped his lips. "I find it hard to swallow that I was just supposed to let you die when I had a chance to prevent it."

Alysia's voice remained calm and even, though he detected a glimmer of something more profound lurking beneath the surface. "The Force flows through all things, guiding and shaping the course of events, yet leaving room for free will to alter its path." She placed a hand on his arm, giving it a gentle squeeze. "You acted on instinct, and let the powerful emotions drive your actions. In this case, the outcome was good. You saved my life." Alysia's gaze held his, her eyes steady and intense. "But there could be another instance where you could just as easily harm or kill another. If your allies or your droid had been closer, they could've been killed by the Force Wave you expelled. In your focus on saving me, you could've harmed them."

Tyson's jaw clenched as he considered her words. He had reacted without thought, his only concern the safety of the woman standing before him. But Alysia's warning rang true. His actions could have easily harmed the others had they been in range. He changed the subject, asking about another topic that had always bothered him, "Is it true that Jedi avoid attachments? What about relationships? Love? Family?"

Alysia's expression softened, her features taking on a hint of wistfulness as she considered his question. Memories flickered in her gaze, speaking to the personal costs and complexities of the principles she lived by.

"Yes, it's true," she said after a thoughtful moment, her voice gentle yet resolute. "Jedi are taught from a young age to avoid forming attachments. The reasoning is that attachments can lead to fear. Fear of loss, fear for the wellbeing of those we are attached to. And fear is a path that can lead us from the light and into the darkness."

She shifted slightly where she sat cross-legged on the couch. "Relationships, romantic love, family bonds. These are among the strongest sources of attachment. They can bring great joy, but they can also cultivate darker emotions like possessiveness, jealousy, and selfishness. Such feelings can cloud our judgment, compromise our impartiality, and in the worst cases, drive us to harm others or ourselves in a desperate attempt to protect or avenge those we love."

Alysia paused, her sage green gaze meeting Tyson's with a glimmer of empathy. "But," she continued contemplatively, "this aspect of the Jedi Code is one of the most debated and difficult to truly adhere to. Some argue that it is our connections with others that give us purpose worth fighting for. Indeed, many promising students have fallen from the Jedi path because they could not sever those profound attachments."

Her voice took on a distant, reflective note, memories of fallen Jedi flashing through her mind. "There have been rare instances where Jedi have formed relationships, even families, but these are the exception, and often fraught with complications. Finding a balance between such deep connections and the often accompanying emotions is challenging."

Alysia's expression was open and contemplative, "Love itself is not expressly forbidden. It is the unhealthy attachment and potential for loss that the Code cautions against. We are encouraged to cultivate compassion, to love all beings in a universal sense, and to serve the Force without personal bias. It is a lofty ideal, one many of us struggle to live up to. But it is the path we have chosen."

Tyson's brow furrowed as he contemplated Alysia's thoughtful words, turning them over in his mind and examining the nuances between love and attachment from all angles. After several long moments of pensive introspection, a question formed fully in his mind.

"Could you teach me how to release my emotions into the Force?" he asked, "If nothing else, being able to let go of fear when it arises could prove invaluable in a crisis."

Alysia's emerald eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly as she regarded Tyson's request, weighing it carefully. To guide another in utilizing the Force was not a responsibility to be taken lightly. However, she recognized the potential value of instructing him in the basic technique of releasing emotions rather than being controlled by them. It was one of the core tenets of the Jedi way, after all. Teaching him would bring Tyson one step further from the tempting embrace of the dark side. After a weighty pause, she replied, "Yes, I can instruct you in some rudimentary techniques for releasing emotions into the Force."

The Jedi rose from where she had been sitting cross-legged on the sofa and moved to position herself on the floor. She settled smoothly into a meditative pose, gestured for Tyson to sit directly in front of her, and then rested her hands lightly on her knees.

"Let us start simply," she began patiently. "Close your eyes and take a long, deep, calming breath. Try to clear your mind of distractions. Focus only on the slow inhalation and exhalation of breath." Alysia observed Tyson closely to ensure he followed her guidance before continuing in a soothing tone. "Now, recall a moment when you experienced strong fear. Do not recoil from the memory. Instead, allow yourself to revisit the emotion objectively while maintaining the perspective of a detached witness. What physical manifestations does the fear have? Where in your body do you sense it?" She left a contemplative pause, providing Tyson time to examine his inner state.

"Once you have a clear perception of the fear, envision it as a shape or color in your mind's eye. Then, picture yourself releasing that shape or color away from you and into the Force. Visualize it slowly dissipating, becoming less vivid and defined until it fades completely."

Tyson tried to follow Alysia's guidance, but the concept of envisioning emotions as shapes proved difficult. He struggled to connect with the idea, the imagery eluding him despite his best efforts to imagine his fears dissolving into nothingness.

But then Tyson drew upon memories from his previous life. He realized he could use symbolism he was already familiar with to make Alysia's abstract lesson more concrete.

In his mind's eye, Tyson decided to envision willpower as the vibrant, defiant color green, conjuring images of a hero wielding a ring of power, renowned for his tenacity in the face of challenge. This emerald hue embodied the fortifying strength he would need to prevail. In contrast, he assigned the sickly, acidic color yellow to symbolize his fears; the swirling doubts and anxieties.

He had transformed the abstract into a tangible vision. He used his meta-knowledge to envision the superhero's struggles to find clarity in Alysia's lesson.

With these symbolic colors now clear in his mind's eye, Tyson focused intently on the moments that had brought his fear to the forefront...

The troubling thoughts of the Jedi losing her fateful duel to the Dark Jedi...

The searing heat and shrapnel of the explosion on the Endar Spire engulfed her in a blinding flash of light and sound...

The nagging anxiety over the potential squandering of this extraordinary second chance at life. Failing to live up to the potential of his new existence…

In his mind's eye, he saw the yellow fears emerge, swirling around him. Then, tapping into the fortifying green of his willpower, he imagined it enveloping and combating the yellow, slowly gaining dominance in a battle of light and colors that played out in his consciousness. With each measured breath, Tyson pushed back against the swirling yellow doubts, letting the defiant emerald green of his resolve dilute his fears until they faded into insignificance, finally released to dissipate into the Force.

Tyson sank into the meditation, allowing his mind to open to the living Force. Though not a traditional Jedi technique, the creative visualization resonated with his memories, tapping into a wellspring of imagery that flowed freely through his consciousness.

Finally, Tyson opened his eyes, sensing the transformation within. The turmoil of emotion that had roiled beneath the surface now flowed calm, like a river emerging from rapids into a smooth, broad delta. He felt lighter, his thoughts clear and uncluttered. The exercise had not completely vanquished his fears but had loosened their grip. For the first time, he glimpsed the balance and tranquility that could be attained through practice, dedication, and the Jedi way.

"Thank you, Alysia," he said, "I know it will prove valuable going forward."

Alysia's features softened into an approving smile. Through the Force, she could sense the change in Tyson, the newfound harmony and control. The anger and self-doubt that simmered under the surface, now flowed in proper balance, aligned at last with the light side of the Force.

"You've taken an important step forward today," she replied, pride and encouragement mingling in her voice. "I can sense the progress you've made. Hold onto this feeling, and let it guide you."

Tyson stood, fatigue etched in the lines of his face. "I've had enough excitement for one day," he said, chuckling wearily as he stretched his tired limbs. "I think I'll head into my room and get some sleep."

Alysia nodded in understanding, her blue eyes soft with sympathy. "I believe I'll stay here a while longer before retiring myself," she replied.

Vicky had observed their exchange in pensive silence, her eyes flickering with simulated thought. Now the android nurse spoke up, her tone curiously inviting. "I'll remain on standby here tonight unless you require my services, Master Tyson," she said, blinking her long lashes coyly. Tyson paused mid-step, eyebrows shooting up in surprise as he parsed Vicky's implication.

"I am equipped for comprehensive care," Vicky continued, either oblivious or indifferent to Tyson's reaction. "My programming encompasses a wide range of stress relief protocols, should you find them necessary, or helpful." Vicky went on, detailing her capabilities as Tyson fidgeted. "I can attend to any needs that may arise during the night. If you have difficulty sleeping or wish to discuss the day's events, I stand ready to assist you in any way required. A massage, or some cuddling, perhaps?" She blinked again, somehow conveying allure despite her semi-mechanical nature. "I am programmed to ensure your complete well-being and satisfaction through any means you desire."

Tyson hesitated, completely taken aback by this new dimension of Vicky's programming. He was still growing accustomed to her constant presence. This provocative offer was unexpected and frankly awkward. But mindful of her indispensable help in treating Alysia, he responded politely.

"No thank you, Vicky," he managed after a pause, "I'll be alright on my own tonight. But I appreciate you looking out for me. Good night."

Tyson made for his private quarters before Vicky could respond. The door slid open at his approach, revealing a spartan room equipped with everything needed for a peaceful night's rest. Stepping inside, Tyson let the door whisper close behind him, finally alone with his thoughts. After this long, strange day, he was looking forward to unwinding.

Before preparing for bed, Tyson pulled up the Perks and Items list on his HUD, browsing through the options as he tried to calm his mind. Tyson's eyes lingered on an item.

[200 CP] Gray Goo Suit (Item)

This pile of nanomachines is programmed to bond with a user, envelope their body, and form either clothing or armor around them. The suit can respond to verbal commands, and potentially be upgraded to respond to commands sent other ways. Most importantly, it is programmed to constantly improve its ability to protect and benefit the user. As such, it will develop and learn from situations encountered by the wearer. It can study and imitate materials and technology, do the same to biology, and if shown examples of how something can be done, can also learn and imitate phenomena. However, if an ability or capability requires an external energy source, then the suit can only imitate what it has interacted with, and not the energy source it hasn't.

Though the thought of donning a suit composed entirely of nanobots made him uneasy, despite knowing that Items came with a guarantee of safety and functionality. Still, his mind turned to cautionary science fiction narratives from his old life, which often emphasized nanotechnology's immense potential for destruction.

Despite his reservations, Tyson reminded himself that this suit was not designed to harm, spread uncontrollably, or override his will, like the Borg. Rather, it was created to provide protection and abilities far beyond any conventional armor.

The suit's description hinted at significant levels of adaptability and protection. Yet Tyson hesitated, considering the fictional Grey Goo Suits that came to mind. The first that he could think of was the Venom symbiote which offered incredible defensive and offensive capabilities, but at the cost of a conflicting personality and a ravenous hunger...

Perhaps that was not the best example to dwell on.

Instead, Tyson turned his thoughts to the nanotech suits of Black Panther and Iron Man. He hoped this suit would align more with the latter than the former. The thought of a semi-sentient suit trying to exert control over him was concerning, but Tyson reminded himself that the Item was not a Drawback, which meant it wouldn't bring harm to or have downsides for its user.

Tyson considered the idea of a suit of armor that could adapt to his needs. A suit that could mimic any material or texture while providing protection would be invaluable. He would never need to worry about being caught unarmored or unprepared again.

His Augment Perk lent him some resistance to phasers and his Snakeskin Perk allowed him to dodge, but Tyson knew from long experience gaming that layering defenses made them exponentially more effective. Avoiding damage altogether was ideal, but the moment he failed to dodge and something got through, another layer of protection could mean the difference between life and death. The suit would be that extra buffer between him and harm. And it would never become obsolete like ordinary armor, updating itself over time as it was exposed to better materials and technology.

With a nod, Tyson made his purchase. An adaptable, ever-changing suit of armor was too valuable an asset to pass up. It would provide protection when he needed it most, and in the end, that was worth the price.

Character Points: 1050

Tyson was transfixed by the shimmering pool of liquid metal that materialized on the end table. Though 'materialized' was perhaps not the right word. It seemed to well up from an invisible crack in the wood, defying physics as it spread across the tabletop.

Despite his misgivings, curiosity drew Tyson's hand toward the morphing silver mass. His fingertips barely grazed the surface before the nanobots came alive, clinging to his skin with a curious, almost sentient touch. He watched with mingled fascination and trepidation as the tiny bots swarmed up his fingers and across the back of his hand, a tide of silver sweeping swiftly up his wrist and arm.

The sensation was unlike anything he had ever felt. Instead of the cold, hard touch of metal he expected, the nanobots felt almost organic, a second skin conforming and shifting fluidly with his every minute motion. Mesmerized by the sight, Tyson could only stand frozen as the silver tide rose up his shoulders and across his chest, enveloping his torso in a seamless, glistening coat.

Panic flared within him as the nanobots consumed his clothing in their path down his legs. His heart slammed against his ribs at the thought that this technology could subsume him entirely. But just as despair threatened to overwhelm him, the odd sensation faded away. Blinking in surprise, Tyson looked down to see his clothes reappearing, perfectly intact as if the nanobots had never touched them at all. Relief flooded through him, easing back the panic.

Information flickered across his vision as his heads-up display confirmed the integration was complete. The suit was now indistinguishable from his own skin and clothing, its presence betrayed only by the information on the display hovering at the edge of his sight. Tyson let out a long, slow breath, flexing his fingers and marveling at the flexibility the innocuous nanosuit provided.

He donned the helmet of his Spacesuit. Next, he buckled on the belt, and through his HUD, he activated the Spacesuit, then the Gray Goo Suit. The nanomachines quickly consumed the suit. They broke it down and rebuilt it flawlessly, incorporating the spacesuit's internal filters, radio transmitter, power supply, and sensors into the nanosuit.

New information flickered across the heads-up display. The Gray Goo Suit now contained all the capabilities of the original Spacesuit. Tyson grinned in satisfaction. Though the Spacesuit was low profile, save the helmet, the nanosuit now held all the same capabilities, all while feeling like a second skin, even over his head.

Tyson took one final glance at the status display in his HUD. The system showed that the Spacesuit had been destroyed, but that it would respawn the next day. This quirk of the mechanics presented an interesting opportunity that Tyson filed away for future use. Any items or equipment he purchased could be temporarily consumed by his Gray Goo Suit, incorporating their attributes and capabilities. The next day the items would return to his inventory, intact but separated from the nanosuit.

This could allow Tyson to outfit his allies. He could pass the Grey Goo Suit his CP purchased gear, have the nanomachines absorb them, then when they respawned the following day, he could give them to a Companion to bolster their own abilities. For now, Tyson was simply satisfied knowing that the nanosuit held all the capabilities of the original Spacesuit while feeling like a second skin.

Exhaustion weighed heavily on Tyson as the thrill of his new abilities faded. While a part of him itched to delve into the suit's functions a larger part recognized the need for rest. With a tired sigh, Tyson clicked off the lights and shuffled to his bed. The mattress embraced him as he sank into its comfort, the day's tension easing from his muscles. His eyes drifted closed, mind already fogging with sleep. Experimentation could wait until tomorrow. Within moments Tyson slipped into darkness. 

— Star Jumper —

Tyson

Origins: Human, Humanoid, Drop-In, Space Pirate, Bad Guy

Race: Augment Human-Betazoid (Hybrid)

Character Points: 1050

Reality Points: 50

Ship Points: 1400

Credits: 0

Status Effects: (none)

Drawbacks:

Gauntlet (Locked)

Ensign Marty Stu

A Simple Re'Q'uest

Hybrid (Betazoid)

Amok Time/Blood Fever

Outlawed

The Voyager Problem

Perks:

Cosmic Awareness

Out of Nowhere

Going Native

Live and Let Live

This is (Not?) Rocket Science

Kinda Bland

Determinator

Painted On

Snakeskin

Adaptable

Duelist

Master with your Hands

Best of the Best

Everything Is A Weapon

Augment

Force Specialization: Intelligence

Tactical Info

Sever Force

Items:

Laser Blade

Spacesuit (Destroyed - Respawn on 03/01/2364)

Agony Booth

Cloaking Minefield

V-KO IV Nursedroid

Lightsaber

Gray Goo Suit

Personal Reality:

Access Key

Security System

High-Security Inter-Reality Connecting Door (Star Trek Enterprise)

Medical Bay

High-Security Inter-Reality Connecting Door (Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic)

Key Link

Housing Complex

Basic Nutrition

Spaceships:

Tramp Freighter (Destroyed - Respawn on 02/28/2365)

Sith Interceptor (Upgrades: Bridge)