A moment to Discuss the book Twilight

OMG!!!! I loved this book. Yeh, it's about vampires, but they are the benevolent type...and it's a love story. It's just got these great characters, which isn't that why we get so smitten by characters like Kyp in the first place. You know, isn't that why there is fan fiction?

The characters in Twilight are Edward and Bella. It is told in a first person narritive by Bella (the human). she's a great character and you love her, but you love Edward too, even though, as a vampire, he has obvious flaws.

Maybe that's why I like Kyp. He has in his grasp the ability to do great evil, but he choses not to, no not by abstaining but by controlling himself. It is his strength of character and his ability to do good and help others that makes him a hero.

Wait who'sthat about: Kyp or Edward? See it doesn't matter. It's the archetypre of the flawed hero, the redeemed, the even the tragic hero. It's interesting reading. And hey, maybe we see something of our own flaws and forgivance in these characters.

I still love to ponder free will versus genetics and that there always is a choice.

this links to the twilight site: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com

Ben's Thoughts in Tempest

p. 268 …”during their practice sessions, not even Jacen could always tell when he was lying.”

p. 270 His thoughts on Jaina:
“Jaina was just as volatile and unreasonable as Jacen claimed. It was a wonder she lasted as long in the military as she had- but then the standards of the New republic forces had not been nearly as high as they were now that Jacen and Niathal had reorganized the military. These days, someone as hot headed as Jaina would never even make it into flight school-and he couldn’t imagine how she ever became a Jedi Knight. Jacen was always telling him that a good Jedi used his anger-not the other way around. “

I thought these two passages were interesting. In Bloodlines Ben also asks Jacen to teach him to hide his presence in the Force. He also has the ability to lay down a sonic blast that knocks people flat momentarily.

He is one powerful 13 year old.

Plot Summary of LOTF books 1-3

Ok, so now I have read 3 of the LOTF books. If I had to summarize the plot thus far and tell you the theme...could I? Typically this comes easily to me, but for some reason I can't. Maybe it's because when I get these books I read them in a race. Last night I read Tempest from 5 PM to 12:20 AM and was done. Perhaps I am simply going so fast I am not giving myself time to process the material. Maybe I need to calm down and try a new technique (yeah right, Exile is next and Kyp is in it so you know I'm gonna spas! At least this time I was perfectly calm about Kyp's non-involvement, honestly it would not have made sense in the story line. So here is my attempt at summary.

This is the external conflict and plot:

The story begins with Corellia's dissatisfaction with the GA. The tension rises and negotiation fails. There is an assassination of the Corellian leader and misunderstanding regarding who attacked. It ends with battle between Corellia and the GA and a GA blockade. By the second novel Corellia has officiallly declared independence. This is the beginning of the Civil War. The GAG is formed with Jacen Solo as its commander. Protest becomes terrorism and civil rights are weakened as laws become oppressive. After two months things have not improved, in fact more worlds are likely to defect and join Corellia. Corellia makes a calculated attempt to draw Hapes to their side. This requires the execution of Tenel Ka since she is GA loyal. The murder is foiled however her usupers rally a small fleet and a battle is fought over Hapes in which the GA wins and Jacen is seen as a hero.

Now for the Internal Conflict and Plot:

This is harder because it is dependent on whose point of view is being presented. Obviously we have a Force powerful thinker named Jacen who is willing to learn more about his destiny. He embraces the Sith teachings willingly asa way to bring peace to his galaxy. He is a narcissitic man who thinks he can use his great power to save everyone, however in his manipulations and the manipulations of the bitter Sith Lumiya war is perpetuated. Jacen knows how to work people and in a short amount of time is given a very special position as head of the GAG (read Gestapo). In this position he rises to power and popularity within the fear fed culture of Coruscant. After two months he is the hero, given his own SSD and he takes the initiative to go to Hapes to protect GA interests there (do you really think it matters to him about Tenel Ka? I don't). Despite his ever questionable behavior he is popular as ever and the push is on from the top to make him a Jedi Master.

Things Poised to Happen

Lumiya hints there are other Sith.

The whole Korriban thing

Jaina is free of Zekk and Kyp, yet both respect her and are friendly, the relationships are still in tact.

Potential Imperial Knights, potential alliances to fight Jacen, potential loved ones to die and change the character

Jacen has his own SSD. That took only three books, wow!

Battle meld ala Palpatine

Luke isn’t falling for Jacen’s charms

“Jedi vs. Sith” round whatever….

Jacen nearly looses an eye to Aurra Sing

Couldn’t help but think of Krayt’s fake eye

Ben wears Yuuzhan Vong inspired armor

Couldn’t help but think of Krayt’s armor and that worried me…what if Ben becomes Krayt? That’s one Sith turn that would make me mad and sad.

What to Make of the Exile Excerpt on Kyp

Allston took time to develop these pages and his thoughts, why? These novels are brief and concise compared to the NJO, there are few pages lost to random thoughts. So why let us know the following about Kyp:

-He’s contemplative as he thinks of the war and his first thoughts are on the homecoming relief of the soldiers. Allston touches on his empathic side, which is not usually explored. We are in Kyp’s thoughts and that rarely happens.

-He seems enormously peaceful and calm (until he drives a sports car like speeder of course)

-He still is enormously powerful in the Force and frivolously rocks the Jade Shadow with telekinesis.

-He is investigating Ben

-He is privy to the info that Omas and Niathal want Jacen made master, and he doesn’t seem to like that idea anymore. You get the feeling he’s been thinking about Jacen a lot more lately.

-He has a girlfriend!!!!!! And it is not Jaina!!! He realizes what he really thought about her 12 years before and Allston attempts to show Kyp as much more mature now.

Will Kyppie make the DP of Exile? I hope so!!!!

Side note: Allstons' physical description of Kyp was amusing. He was wearing the hood up on his Jedi cloak and when it blew off in the breeze of his open speeder his hair was very long and nearly smacked Luke in the face. It is also described as having grey in it. Is Kyp the new Qui gon? I mean that was what I got out of DN when I had no background on Kyp. Kyp the hippie free spirit.

I was a Teenage Sith Apprentice

Thoughts on Ben in light of Tempest and the new exile Excerpt.

OK, Ben is not dark (yet) but he is being taught the kind of sneaky skills associated with the Sith. He comments, what did other Master’s teach?

And Ben most definitely considers Jacen his Master, and he most definitely considers him the strongest Force user. At this point Jacen has the power over Ben because he has twisted Ben’s thoughts and point of view to believe in absolutes. He has developed in him a code of discipline that causes Ben to see his cousin Jaina as a lesser Jedi because she is “undisciplined” (ie. She thinks for herself). He is simply to young to get the big picture.

It wasn’t surprising when the boy tried to arrest Han. He was just doing his job. His duty is to follow orders. He is definitely not Jedi trained to follow his conscience (though he would likely believe he was following it while following orders).

So that leaves the kid in need of a master. Now Allston’s excerpt shows Kyp’s involvement with the Family. Kyp will investigate Ben’s light saber accident. What if it is decided Ben needs proper training and he works with Kyp? After all, Kyp was also a teenage Sith apprentice and I believe those two are the only two. So idealistically there is an understanding. But you know it is too late for Ben. He is loyal to Jacen and his thoughts are so firm it will take years to open his mind.

Jacen’s done a good job with his protégé.


Thoughts on Ben after reading Exile:

Ben has just turned 14 while on a set up mission to test his ethics and his strength. Ben travels to find an Amulet [sounds so hokey i had to read it twice] and he basically follows the hero's quest route. He is on Ziost, a former Sith planet that reaks of the darkside. He gets his Amulet and has to help a 6 year old girl, but in between his ship is destroyed and they are without food. His thoughts are brutal and dark (he'd leave the girl, later he thinks about eating her, and finally he downs a tie fighter with a boulder thrown by the Force). Lumiya ordered him killed by this tie-fighter because he saved the little girl and she thought he'd be too kind to be a Sith. so we see Ben thinking and weighing his choices. He constantly thinks how would my mom do this? (his enoamored by her "spy" stuff) and he thinks what would Jacen think of my thoughts and actions? And basically every time he comes to the conclusion that Jacen would think his actions were qacceptable given the circumstances. (justification)

In the end Ben flies a Sith Meditation sphere which had called to him in his thoughts and which you operate through a Force connection.

I thnk Ben will continue to fall to the dark through his absolute belief in Jacen and his ability to do what needs to be done. But I think he may not fall completely unless something presses him over the edge.

Review of Tempest

Hapan Trechery, secret trysts, betrayal, Vader moments, and cold realizations, it’s all here in Tempest. We have the core characters and some useful peripheral ones too. Denning allows multiple characters screen time and gives everyone but Mara Jade a backbone and personality. Yes, you read that right, Luke has spunk and he does not waver!!!!!! The Force is used in satisfying ways and the author let’s you into the characters’ thoughts.

I have to say once again I wasn’t disappointed. Denning was able to convey enough setting to me that I pictured the whole thing and he kept building the kinetic energy all the way to the end just as in SBS. He danced us through multiple characters too, which was a favorite part of the NJO. As many characters as NJO? NO! But still, it wasn’t the “BIG 4” show.

Jaina had some real screen time and I liked it. Zekk had a personality and got to live (to fight another day). And my favorite screaming with excitement moment: JAG FEL !!!!!!! He’s back and he’s bitter!!!! YES! He should be bitter, he was practically left for dead and marooned on Tenupe for 2 years. Then he gets exiled from the Chiss Ascendency and let’s face it, the military was everything to him. Oh the joy, please Jag, please become the first Emperor! It would be too cool. At least we know he is free and doing his own thing. I just hope he has a hidden agenda and is already secretly working for the Empire. Palleon left the GA and we haven’t heard from him, so we can hope they are concocting their plan. (Well we know the Empire arises in a few years).

Let’s just get the bad out of the way:
Allana would not have a speech impediment befitting a preschooler in need of special services! She’s a Force user and probably has the potential to be a really powerful one! For Kriffin’ sake Denning, what were you thinking. She’s going to seem precocious and she should! I don’t want my future Sith Queen to be an idiot!!!!!

I guess humans don’t really get their relationship poodoo together until they are in their 40’s. The only flirting and innuendo going on was Han/Leia and Luke/Mara. Tenel Ka and Jacen didn’t even have clearly hidden passion, droids feel more. Jaina at least has fantasies of Jag, but she thinks maybe she doesn’t want to be with anyone! OK, I’d like a little more romance in these novels, after all, if they are like a soap (and let’s face it they are) they need some sordid affairs.

So Denning has set up some things to carry on, namely is Lumiya dead? I hope so, it’s time for Jacen to step up to Sith Lord, and she was getting very annoying. She told Alema he was ready. “Jacen has the knowledge to complete his journey.” She also stated to Alema. “Sly, ruthless, and deadly, I couldn’t be more proud.” Hopefully Luke did blast her to death!!! Their fight by the way was exciting and not easy for either of them, and though Luke was in uber mode (which I think strains the edges of darkness) he never used the dark side or appeared tempted to.
What else is left hanging? Ben’s future. Luke forces him back with him to Coruscant, but what will happen next? Ben is not happy about this and he doesn’t respect his parents. It’s highly unlikely he’ll be coming around to the light any time soon.

Kyp at 16

Remember "James at 15"? I never got it maybe cause I was like 7 at the time. Kyp arrived in Coruscant aboard the Suncrusher; as he dismounted the space ship he exclaimed "now that's a city!" He was at times described as a boy, teen, young man, and by Han: a kid. He had lived in Kessel so long he had nearly abandoned hope until Han and Chewbacca, and then he had hope, it quickly returned, lots of it and he wasn't going to give it away. After facing death and helplessness at the Maw he discovered something new, he could abandon fear also. Abandon it completely? No, but he seems able to put it off for needed times (such as escaping the Maw and flying past black holes). He also shows limited fear when he meets Exar Kun. (okay so some of it is pure teenage intrepidness).

How is Kyp with Han? He instantly seems to trust him and follow his lead. He is described: "had clung to Han..." They seem to think of each other as friends, but with a 25 year span I'm sure Han had some paternal feelings for him. I'm sure Han must have invited him to stay at his home for the month Kyp is described as being on Coruscant. Heck even Wedge says the kid deserves some vacation after all he'd been through (not that Wedge would be wanting to champioin him for long!).

So Kyp tries to be fearless, yet is nervous Luke won't accept him. It's obvious being a Jedi became very important to him once he realized what he could do with his powers. He is very curious and likes learning (which we all know get's him into trouble).

So what would Kyp's brief time on Coruscant been like? Hmmmm do I hear fanfiction?

Why I still love Kyp

It was fun reading Keyes' book. Kyp had a significant role and his words made a lot of sense to me. This was a pivotal point when he could have torn the order in half, but deep down he is so loyal to Luke, he just won’t do it.

Luke sighed. "I was young, then," he pointed out. "There was much I did not understand. Aggression is the way of the dark side."

This is “Yoda speak” (I absolutely hate the little green toad). Yoda likely could have beaten the likes of Palpatine, but “aggression is of the dark side”. Poor Luke. He never had any decent teachers. Even Owen and Beru were passive and more worried about the binary function of moisture evaporators than nurturing their nephew’s curiosity and critical thinking. I’d like to believe that Kyp learned to think from his mom and dad.

Kyp is an eloquent speaker and very persuasive. Why does anyone follow Luke? His arguments make less sense.

"No!" Jaina whispered to Anakin. "If Kyp leaves, he'll take too many with him.""So?" Anakin said. "Are you so sure he's wrong?""Of course I—" She stopped, paused, started again. " It won't help any of us if the Jedi split. We have to try to help Uncle Luke. Come on."

I love this line because it clearly shows where their instinctual loyalties lie. They just had tough time turning their backs on their uncle.

"It's too bad I didn't take care of Kyp years ago," Mara said.

Why does Luke worry so much about the dark side, but allows Mara to make dark side comments ALL THE TIME!

I recommended Dark Apprentice to a student today. I said, “ the coolest JedI is in this book.” the student said, “Luke? Darth Vader?”

I said “no, Kyp.”

This poor kids gonna go home, read, and think, “how is Kyp cool?” He just mind raped a woman, attacked Luke, and declared himself a Sith and ends the book with his sun crusher attack! Well if the student gets through the book maybe I should encourage COF to get to the Kyp redemption. I think it’s easier to love Kyp when you are an adult rather than 11. It will be interesting to hear the student’s take on this is he actually completes the book.

Occasional Random Thoughts

It's all about genetics, right? Where did Kyp's power come from, mom or dad. We speculate in fanfiction, but we know in the NJO era the power is often inherited. The more Midi-chlorians you have (with training) the stronger you are, the faster you are, the clearer you can see the future, the less concentration you require to move massive objects (dark siders do it with even greater ease because they make objects move instead of just willing them to move) etc.

Yeh, but midichlorians make me think of IQ. You can have the potential, but you also have to have the nurturing of the gift and the training to learn to use it fully. If midi’s are like IQ, why would Jacen have less than Luke? I mean really, if midi’s were like any genetic gift why would it dilute. You can inherit intelligence, musical, athletic etc…you are less or greater than your parents. Why would Force gifts be any different?

Someone mentioned willingness to use skills….Jacen has that over the other JedI because IMO he is a Sith. Maybe he isn’t quite the master yet, but he is a Sith. Sorry it’s my opinion.
Yoda could have beaten Palpatine. He refused to use the dark side. Thus he sent the galaxy into 20 years of darkness and oppression.

LOL My IQ of more than 120 is meaningless. I am only a teacher. I do not use my full potential nor work in a brain intelligent demanding job. I have never tapped the potential. Isn't that also true of Jedi?

What the Kriff is Star Wars About Anyways????

What is the spirit of the movies? I’ve been thinking and I think it is that they are goofy and for kids. GL says he makes them for kids, they just aren’t serious. You never get the feeling that anyones really gonna get hurt and even if they are in danger you know it’ll all work out in the end. I think the two best movies were also in ways the most adult ESB and ROTS. Especially the end of Sith with the tragedy of Anakin, very adult, not happy at all. Bantam era books were more like the movies. You had ridiculous tyrants and Luke would fight these dumb acting enemies. There were always power hungry Imps and kidnappings. But the bad guys were distinct and not like you and me.

That’s why NJO started to be more mature. The plot was more mature even though the bad guys weren’t like you and me, but the bad guys definitely were not the bumbling dark Jedi type either.

Now with LOTF you have no bumblers. The enemy looks like you and no one is easily right or wrong.

Love Immortal

Jedi

Jaina

Solo

and

Jedi

Zekk

Do they belong together?

Kinder...gentler

Kyp Durron,
active Jedi Master





Did you ever stop to think why was Kyp made a master so young?

On another site someone brought up that it may have been done for political reasons to prove to society that Luke trusted him and society should accept him.

this is of course what Kyp is saying about Jacen.

Of course, I think Jacen has the knowledge to be a master also.

Let's talk narcissism

From Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, 1994, commonly referred to as DSM-IV, of the American Psychiatric Association.

An enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior that deviates markedly from the expectation of the individual's culture, is pervasive and inflexible, has an onset in adolescence or early adulthood, is stable over time, and leads to distress or impairment.

A personality disorder is a pattern of deviant or abnormal behavior that the person doesn't change even though it causes emotional upsets and trouble with other people at work and in personal relationships. It is not limited to episodes of mental illness, and it is not caused by drug or alcohol use, head injury, or illness.

While grandiosity is the diagnostic hallmark of pathological narcissism, there is research evidence that pathological narcissism occurs in two forms, (a) a grandiose state of mind in young adults that can be corrected by life experiences, and (b) the stable disorder described in DSM-IV, which is defined less by grandiosity than by severely disturbed interpersonal relations. The preferred theory seems to be that narcissism is caused by very early affective deprivation, yet the clinical material tends to describe narcissists as unwilling rather than unable, thus treating narcissistic behaviors as volitional -- that is, narcissism is termed a personality disorder, but it tends to be discussed as a character disorder.

Narcissists are very reluctant to open up and trust, so it's possible that their NPD is not even recognized by therapists in short-term treatment. Most clinical writers seem unaware that narcissists' self-reports are unreliable. This is troubling, considering that lying is the most common complaint about narcissists and that, in many instances, defects of empathy lead narcissists to wildly inaccurate misinterpretations of other people's speech and actions, so that they may believe that they are liked and respected despite a history of callous and exploitative personal interactions.

A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy. Grandiosity is a special case, but lack of empathy and exploitative interpersonal relations are not unique to NPD, nor is the need to be seen as special or unique. The need for constant attention is also found in Histrionic Personality Disorder, but HPD and BPD are both strongly oriented towards relationships, whereas NPD is characterized by aloofness and avoidance of intimacy. Grandiosity is unique to NPD among personality disorders, but it is found in other psychiatric illnesses.

Psychopaths display pathological narcissism, including grandiosity, but psychopathy is differentiated from NPD by psychopaths' willingness to use physical violence to get what they want, whereas narcissists rarely commit crimes.

So this is a tough call for Jacen, he commits crimes, but is legally sanctioned by the government and society (at the moment at least).
The disorder begins by early adulthood and is indicated by at least five of the following:

1. An exaggerated sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)

...in public, saving their conceit and autocratic opinions for their nearest and dearest. Common conspicuous grandiose behaviors include expecting special treatment or admiration on the basis of claiming to be extraordinarily intelligent or talented. For Jacen this would be leading Rogue Squadron and ordering Jaina to do something ethically questionable.

2. Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love

Well this one is easy...unlimited power. Making peace in the galaxy.

3. Believes he is "special" and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)

Translation: Narcissists think that everyone who is not special and superior is worthless. By definition, normal, ordinary, and average aren't special and superior, and so, to narcissists, they are worthless. For Jacen: this is the analogy of the Gardener

4. Requires excessive admiration He's a media darling and handsome to boot!

5. Has a sense of entitlement
Translation: I am the Chosen One

6. Selfishly takes advantage of others to achieve his own ends Where to begin...Tenel Ka and the Hapan Fleet, way back to Ganner's sacrifice? Lately he uses the World Brain and the Ferals...I'm sure I could think of more.

7. Lacks empathy He used to be empathic with animals which empowered his Vongsense, but he doesn't genuinely feel. I think Jacen has to act out feelings and emotions, but I don't think they come to him naturally.

8. Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him We haven't seen this blatently yet, but it has potential.

9. Shows arrogant, haughty, patronizing, or contemptuous behaviors or attitudes " I'm a Jedi, my ideas are right, that's all you need to know."

Props to the real people

I use a lot of real people on these pages for my images. I just wanted to take a moment to give them credit and thanks for the inspiration:


Zekk: Travis Fimmel
Jaina: Kate Beckinsdale
Kyp: Billy Crudup
Jag: Olivier Martinez

Tenel Ka: Lynn Collins
Allana: Anna Popplewell
Jacen : Tom Welling
Ben: Patrick Fugit

Mara: Kristin Scott Thomas
Luke: Mark Hamill
Han: Harrson Ford
Leia: Carrie Fisher

I love Ben Skywalker

I think this has a lot to do with me being a Middle School teacher and Ben being the age of an 8th grader. Ben is really a great character. The authors have gone through great lengths to make him a believable 13 year old. He's confused, at once a man, and then a boy. He sees the world in absoultes, but he questions what is happening around him. He loves those he knows like Jacen his mentor/cousin/father and his own parents. He wants approval of the Galactic alliance Guard, he wants to prove himself. and when things go wrong he needs the affirmation of those around him to tell him he's okay. Yet he is independent and strong. He is 13, practicing adulthood, and doing the best he can.


Let me just say I adore Ben S. Never before has SW undertaken such a bold step to take a child and press him into adulthood. I don’t think they ever had anyone as young as 13 kill. I think that is likely why KJA changed Kyp’s age between the two books from 16 to 18 because he didn’t want flak about a mass murdering child. Poor Ben, he killed two Corellians during a raid who likely didn’t need to be killed. I think the scene was written from his point of view so you have to read into it that the Corellians could have been subdued but not killed and that Ben panicked a bit and it may be said he was in over his head with the amount of responsibility Jacen put on him.

Ben will believe e is tainted and thus be more susceptible to Jacen’s Sith influence because he will feel soiled and unable to be a perfect Jedi like his dad would want. He already feel s alienated from his father and he hates the idea of the Skywalker legacy. He will want his own path and he will think he will find it with Jacen.

Luke has very limited control over Ben, very! He has no idea how to intervene. I get a bad feeling we are at a cross roads in time and if Luke had gotten Ben to the academy at this point in Bloodlines time it would have been okay, but now Ben had killed and he has crossed over in his mind. He is still at an age of absolutes.

For the Love of Kyp !!!

So Kyp gives Luke a bit of parenting advice. Luke’s in deep with the screw up’s with Ben. The kid’s just started his teen years and he’s apprenticed to a Sith Adept and has been raised by this Sith since he was nine. I think this is the pivotal point where Luke could still exercise some control over Ben, but past this, I think we’ll see trouble.

People who hate Kyp are likely going to say him recommending Jacen as Master was really dumb and proves he is a fool blinded to Jacen’s evil. I don’t think Kyp is acting the fool. I think Kyp recognizes there is a multi layered situation going on. One, Jacen is popular with the public and any action towards him by the Jedi Order will be scrutinized. Two, he is definitely beyond the Order…”we all know what he can do.” Three, it’s best not to alienate those who might oppose you. [point the old order never got with Anakin Skywalker].

Kyp remembers Luke’s gesture of placing him on the advisory Council and how that reconciled the two men. And I think maybe, but I am not sure, we see some Jedi compassion on Kyp’s part. He knows the benefit of Skywalker welcoming him home after his dark side. He wants to extend that to Jacen preemptively.

Later we see two other references to Jacen as Master. One from the media and the other as Jacen is thinking. So perhaps it will happen in the next book. All Sithliness aside, Jacen is a master of the Force and is older than Kyp was when he was made a master.

So maybe Jacen is not a sociopath...

...he's just a narcissist. I did a marathon reading of bloodlines last night and I am too tired to post my reactions yet. Suffice it to say Karen Traviss did NOT ignore the Jedi, but she writes an entirely human story. It didn't feel like Star Wars at all and I don't know why yet, let me ponder that. I mean after all, what the kriff does SW "feel" like?

My instant reaction was to like the book. I think I like the idea of war not being a black and white issue (wrong/right whose side you on). I liked seeing Ben's thoughts, I'm intrigued by crazy Jacen. I feel real pity for Luke and Han. Han should retire, and he can't and it is ridiculous and embarracssing. Luke is dithering, but htis time it makes sense. Mara is still failing to win me any simpathy and Jaina's part is too small.

I will write a complete review later when more awake! Oh and Jacen does mind wipe during a torture session; so the picture I made is accurate.

Levels of Insanity

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sociopath

This should help others who fully believe Jacen Solo is normal to find the true light.

Jacen Solo is not normal and this is one link to help define that insanity. He is cold and he has choosen the dark side rather than fallen to it. From another site:

List of Common Psychopathic Traits
Glib and superficial charm; Grandiose sense of self-worth; Need for stimulation; Pathological lying; Conning and manipulativeness; Lack of remorse or guilt; Shallow affect; Callousness and lack of empathy; Parasitic lifestyle; Poor behavioral controls; Promiscuous sexual behavior; Early behavior problems; Lack of realistic, long-term goals; Impulsivity; Irresponsibility; Failure to accept responsibility for own actions; Many short-term marital relationships; Juvenile delinquency; Revocation of conditional release; Criminal versatility

Obviously some of this fits and other pats do not!


Anakin Skywalker "fell" to the darkside due to weaknesses he had from his enslaved childhood onward. In the end we see a delusional and psychotic Anakin who becomes fueled by hate as Vader, but he is neaver fully evil. The good remains, why? He has feelings...he is not a psychopath like his grandson.


And while we are on darkside "falls" let's talk Kyp. More similar to Anakin than anyone else. Kyp falls due to PTSD being left untreated. He needed some serious intervention following Kessel and instead he goes to Yavin and gets put in a room where a Sith Lord's ghost easily seduces him. He acts in passion and emotion, he is delusional, thinking he can use evil to create good, but never is he psychotic. He is always fully aware of what he is doing. He never looses sight of love (he is at Carida trying to locate his brother..he is moved by Han's words). His story is tragedy, but you can see he is really a good person. More so than anakin.

The Skywalker's have messed up genes and I am hoping the new series answers why!!!!!

Real world quotes apply

We had to destroy the village in order to save it.... that came from another blog spot, but it made me think of how crazy people think sometimes. It is as real in life as in fiction. Bush certainly seems to agree with hits sentiment in regards to Iraq.

And here in this SW page it is the folly of Jacen's thought.

Of course Jacen is a sociopath...is bush?

So Jacen the fiction boy has an excuse for wanting to destroy the village. but how many times in human history has a leader done the unspeakable? And here is another quote:

I am death the destroyer of worlds...from the Bhgivad Vita(sorry 'bout spelling) Oppenheimer supposedly quoted that about the atomic bomb! Hello!

So that's wher ethe Kyp Durron Destroyer of worlds thing came from. there is nothing original in Stat Wars, but it is intersting to find the real source.

Ok, I've read some spoiler stuff on NJOE. Kyp is mentioned in the new book! Thank the Maker!

He makes a dumb comment at a Master's Meeting (well it sounds dumb out of context, we'll see how it sounds when te entire scene is played out).

Jacen gets progressively worse and Sithly! Of course that isn't a shock.

I can't wait to get this book! It is driving me crazy waiting for it.

Trying to Understand Jaina

Jaina Solo





Please Jaina, you're our only hope!







No, she's not crazy:



Forget the whole mess with the Killiks, Jaina was just trying to do her objective Jedi duty and got a little carried away.

And no, I don't think she'll ever get together with Kyp, but I'd like to see them act like friends and not strangers. Will it be Zekk or Jag? I don't know.

I think I am beginning to understand Jaina now. She tries to be detached from the situation, but she is really an emotional and passionate woman. She is more hot than cold. She has strong convictions and she will stand up for what she believes. She is what Leia had not yet grown into during the rebellion. Strong in many outward ways, whereas Leia is stronger internally.
Like Jacen, Jaina is detached, like Anakin she is fiery.

And how can we forget: This woman is an awesome pilot!!!! In fact she is now listed as better than Luke! (likely it's her younger reflexes..but is she better than Kyp now too?)

And I am reminded that my father’s death anniversary is coming. And I hate to observe those things. It makes me wonder then. Thinking about Jaina’s behavior after Anakin died I wonder: Am I like Jaina? I kept thinking I was more like Jacen (ugh, the truth hurts). Even though Kyp is the bomb, I am not as much like him. I find they all are confident in their ideals and I would agree that I am too. So I am like Jaina in that I think the whole pilot...kick ass thing is cool, she is powerful, passionate, and stands up for what she believes in.

Alpha Males

I think Kyp is an alpha male. He is definitely a leader and someone who people look up to and are willing to follow. He easily puts together squadrons of non-Jedi, which I think shows he is in touch with the common people. Remember in Rebirth, after destroying the world ship, his squadron cheered and looked at him “as some master of old” as Jaina put it sarcastically. He also has many followers among the Jedi. At least half the order was ready to follow him and possibly even leave the order if he pushed it (at least that’s how a few novels seemed to state it). Didn’t even Denning state “those who supported Kyp on one side of the room” giving me the impression that even after the war he had at least half a room of supporters. Although he respects Luke, he definitely sees himself as Luke’s equal, however he does not plan on usurping that role.

I couldn’t agree more that Luke is not an alpha, but has been forced to assume that role. I worry that he has set himself up as a dictator now. I am thinking perhaps this has been written that way on purpose, and perhaps that will cause conflict later in the series. In Betrayal you get the feeling Luke is the only Jedi who attends meetings with Omas and that what is discussed is classified. This is a big change over the NJO and even over how things were done in the Old Order.

Troy Denning's Glimpse of LOTF

What we learned from Troy Denning (in the Dark Nest Trilogy) that will likely play out in LOTF.

Jacen was so powerful no one could control him. “Even we can’t control Jacen.” Raynar Thul

The Myrkr survivors (including Jaina) were so weak minded they could be persuaded to do anything.

Luke was the Boss. No one could match his skills such as cloaking the ship, creating an illusionary ships, and breaking free from Lomi’s Force Net.

Luke and Mara will cross the line when pressed in battle. Mara fires Force lightening and Luke nearly Force chokes Raynar.

All the other Jedi Masters are useless, dithering, arguing fools who can’t get half of what Luke accomplishes done. They are shown as less important and unable to agree. Corran is sanctimonious, Kenth is the government, Kyp is impatient and contemptuous, even Cilghal realizes there is chaos. Without Luke, the Order falls apart. [this could prove to be a key point]

Leia and Han must be involved in every battle. They must save the day and be the heroes.

Leia proves she is ruthless when protecting her family when she shoots down Jag Fel.

Ben trusts Jacen.

Tenel Ka is willing to use someone to get what she needs.

The authors and Kyp

Kid looks like this, and he hasn't been slashed yet! Pouty Little Jedi Boy! Weird. I forgot where this is from, but I think the artist was trying to show Kyp when he escaped the Maw by posing as a stormtrooper. He looks pretty pissed off if you ask me.

I wouldn't necessarily say his "father" KJA made him pissed. He felt wronged. He was bitter to have had the Empire take so much from him. But mostly he was on a vendetta. He felt self rightous, he was right and he was justified to use an means neccessary to destroy the Empire. He felt omnipotent. And who wouldn't if you just learned to utilize magic powers and had the greatest superweapon at your disposal? KJA gave us impatient Kyp, eager, intrepid, thoughtful, free thinking, over confident, proud, zealous and after he knew he was wrong....contrite, proud, a little afraid of himself, but still all of the above. Even when taken by the darkside he wasn't crazy or manically mean. He was on a mission and fueled by the darkside's power more than anything.

Then we have Simple Tricks. Kyp's had a little time to think about what happened. Probably had a lot of time while recovering in the hospital with all those broken bones (and don't tell me it was the lightside that saved his skinny ass...he tapped the dark to stay alive and mend himself). But I do digress. So in ST, Kyp is a bit passively suicidal. He is quiet, remorseful, and he longs for society to just forgive him and let him do the good he longs to do as a Jedi. He is strong, skilled, helpful, non-judgemental, full of the Force in a good way, and true to himself. He respects life and tries his best to protect all. Mostly he craves acceotance. He's still young and even carries an air of innocence to himself.

In Darksaber, KJA continues his personality. Impatient and impetous...and again in Leviathan more of the same. We also see some empathy going on

Now we jump forward to Vector Prime and the NJO, let's see if I can abbriviate:

VP: arrogant, daring, flirty, powerful, resilient, protector, active, agressive, independent

Dark Tide: Sithly...sneaky, snarky, spoke strangely to Luke (As you wish it, my Master), organized council of war, still indpendent and big advocate of aggression, hinted it would be better to use the darkside than do nothing...calls Luke, "greatest among equals"

Agent: helpful, much more back to VP style, Rescue is our mandate

Edge of victory: more agressive at those Jedi meetings, went against Luke, but had many followers, Luke worried about the darkside and tracked him. got really snarky & manipulative with Jaina, lied, but only to get the job done. Doesn't do anything for his own glory, but he does think what he does matters and that others should emulate him.

SBS: so independent nearly was no longer a jedi, impatient and wanted to rescue kids, arrogant, sneaky, full of his skills. Denning wanted to kill him, but could not so he tried to put him down by creating "Crusty Kyp":
Crusty Kyp was truly funny. I had forgotten how Denning hated Kyp and wanted to kill him. So Denning wrote about the dirty stinkiness to “get back” at the character. That of course is why he turns up all hygiene impaired in DNT. It’s really quite funny when you think about it. We all know Kyp is the handsomest Jedi in the order!!!

DJ: arrogant, good intentions, powerful, compasionate , patient with Jaina helpful, ready to pay his debt, a little dark, learns about self

RD and RS: team player! compassionate, reflective, patient

Destiny's way: leader, has squadron again, joins council, honest, forthright, suddenly he is the same person, but accepted!

TUF: too weak to beat the enhanced warior's !!! HUH? 5 seed partners, compassionate, worried about Alpha Red, gentle, forgiving of Corran, peaceful

DNT: can't go there at the moment, he lapsed some! Denning was not paying attention!

LOTF: better show up or I'll loose it!

Meet Jagged Fel

This is Jagged Fel, the Corellian by blood, Chiss by disposition, pilot extrordiaire who just may win the heart of Jaina Solo someday.

Or perhaps he has turned to evil after being shot down by Jaina's mother One can specualte. He has not yet been returned to the books in LOTF. I'm sure he will.

Fictional Future Kyp

This was a piece of a story about Ben Skywalker becoming an Emporer. I chose it because I very well can see Kyp attempting to save the Jedi Order such as in this story.

The strange craft floated amongst the rubble formerly known as Alderaan. "Chu'unthor II" had been constructed by the Galactic Alliance shortly after the liberation of Coruscant. A gesture of thanks to the Jedi Order which had played such an integral role in the entire conflict. The ship was intended to be used to help train new classes of Jedi, and to act as a roving embassy for the order. But the decline of the Jedi during the Five Year War had left the ship unable to fulfill its primary functions, and due to recent events, its caretaker had begun refitting it to serve a new purpose.

"This is the legacy of the Empire. Old, New, there is nothing that truly differentiates this one from the last." Kyp Durron looked across the wide empty room and the assembled masses inside. The design schematics for this ship had this room listed as a gymnasium originally, but it was the only space big enough for these sort of assemblies. "Some of you might be asking if the man who destroyed Carida should even begin to lecture on the Empire's history of devastating worlds and butchering the inhabitants. I am here right now to tell you, that there is no one better at this time. Our galaxy has been in a downward spiral of suffering ever since the Clone Wars began, because of the cycle of violence formed by the founders of the Empire. While I make no excuses for my actions in participating in Carida's destruction, I remind all of you, it was an Imperial weapon that was used, it was the result of my brother's Imperial conscription that I was driven to madness, it was the result of my enslavement by the Empire in Kessel that I did not receive the proper training to resist the temptations of vengeance."

Kyp sighed, no longer did the pain of these memories affect him as they used to. The thought of becoming impervious to atrocities such as Carida was sickening. But he couldn't let that show, today he was here to inspire, not to grieve. "I stand before you today on this ship, which was one heralded as a new beacon of hope for us all, to ask for your help." Kyp turned on his lightsaber, a new one fashioned only recently, from the combined parts of fallen comrades. The blade burned with a birght orange light as if a flame bent itself to Kyp's whim. "The light of the Jedi will always shine, no Sith, no Vong, no one can ever extinguish it. But the light alone has never been enough to gain freedom, for there is an even more powerful feeling that exists within the hearts of all good beings no matter their affinity for the Force. It is the sense of justice and liberty that powers the hearts of sentient beings. When the hearts of the righteous are joined as one they create an unstoppable flow that glows brighter than any shadow, even the depths of space itself. If we are to restore the nation that was stolen from us then we must join together! Not for the name of a Republic, and not for the people who would lead it, but for the freedom of all living things! For all species! To fight a true and just cause that will not be beaten! Will you join me?"

Kyp's audience roared with applause, much to his surprise. Many of these men had served opposing factions during the Five Year War, now the joined in unison as one cause united them. Outside of the ship, many more ships joined to listen to Kyp's message, which was being broadcast over local channels via the holonet. In time the Empire would hear of this and move to stop the meeting, but by then there would be nothing left but the Graveyard. Dozens of small to large size capital ships flooded the area. Although there were tensions as Bothan Assault Cruisers and Mon Calamari Cruisers entered from opposing vectors, those soon broke as Kyp gave his speech from his command ship.

"Fellow comrades of all species, I welcome you to the Rebel Alliance." And as he spoke he could feel the Force flow through him like a great river, connecting him to the universe as a whole.

Some drabble from Another site

Should Kyp be with Jaina...or should he be with someone else?

I had to really think on this….I think Kyp needs someone who is his equal. That means someone very strong emotionally, intelligent, confident, with a strong sense of who he/she was. That could be Jaina, but she keeps getting written like an adolescent although she is 31! I do agree that she was too young at 18 or 19 and they just weren’t in the same place at that time. My favorite Kyp thought from Allston: “He could make her happy.“ (RD, p. 278). Poor Kyp, she chooses Jag and Kyp is so tolerant of it...he saves the guy’s life and then has to go rest while Jaina and Jag probably had sex! Ahhh poor Kyp! His behavior during that time was so noble despite it being a fairly uncomfortable triangle.

Kyp sort of got stiffed from the get go. He was only a teen while at the Jedi Academy, but since the Academy had just started there wasn’t anyone else his age. Kyp was sort of shut out of the love loop by being too young and then later too old as a Jedi. There were no Jedi in his age range when he was younger for any silly academy crushes like Jaina shared with Zekk. So then Kyp probably would have turned to non-Force sensitives who would either like him for his “bad boy” reputation or be frightened to death by him. Either way, that’s not how to build a lasting relationship. And while in his 20’s Kyp would still probably be learning about himself and not as mature as needed for something lasting. So by the time he is ready to “settle down” in NJO, Jaina is at the stage he had just grown out of! So perhaps their ages are a factor. Now at 31 and 45, maybe not anymore. But I certainly don’t think he is a virgin or a goodie goodie. I am sure he gets what he needs! But I bet Kyp would love a “normal” life and a “legacy” of his own.

Does Kyp like men? Would Kessel have traumatized his sexuality? I won’t venture an opinion here. I just don’t know. Would men find him attractive? I’d say yes, especially when he was younger because I do picture him having a beautiful face and a hot body (not he-man muscled, but toned). So if Han can get slashed (never read any slash, but now I am curious) why not Kyp? I would think Kyp with either Luke or Jacen would make sense. Why? Because Luke was his “teacher” and they were both single during the JAT days. Jacen is just the homosexual version of the Jaina ship. I can see Kyp being his master etc…

Has anyone written J/J/K as a threesome based on that whole partners thing in the Allston books? That would be one lucky Jaina!

The Happy Family of LOTF

The Unfortunate Skywalker Family

Luke: "Once you start down the dark path.... "

Mara: Remember: Hell Hath No Fury Like A Dark Side Mother

Ben: Saviour of the Galaxy

The Tempest Snippet

And here is the backcover of "TEMPEST" (by Troy Denning)

As civil war threatens the unity of the Galactic Alliance, Han and Leia Solo have enraged their families and the Jedi by joining the Corellian insurgents. But the Solos draw the line when they discover the rebels' plot to make the Hapan Consortium an ally--which rests upon Hapan nobles murdering their pro-Alliance queen and her daughter. Yet the Solos' selfless determination to save the queen cannot dispel the inescapable consequences of their actions that will pit mother against son and brother against sister in the battles ahead. For as Jacen Solo's dark powers grow stronger under the Dark Jedi Lumiya, and his influence over Ben Skywalker becomes more insidious, Luke's concern for his nephew forces him into a life-and-death struggle against his fiercest foe, and Han and Leia Solo find themselves at the mercy of their deadliest enemy... their son.

I'm telling you...no holding back on this baby. the Sith is going to hit the fan. Tenel Ka may find herself wishing she never fucked hot Jedi boy!!!

Poor Han and Leia, to loose one son to death and the other to the darkside. Ouch!!!! Please Jaina, save the day!!!!

And Luke's fierest foe? Hummm will that be Lumiya or his own dark side? I'm hedging his dark side. We shall see!!!!

Meet Jedi Zekk

Zekk is such an under used and poorly written guy...it's almost as bad as poor Kyppie, but at least Zekk has had some screen time in LOTF.

I found this picture while looking for one of Anakin Solo.

Who is Baret Saiy ?

Well he is a corellian male according to the DP for Bloodlines. All the other characters get more of a description and let me tell yuou last time they were this vague Brishya Syo turned out to be Lumiya. My point is this unknown male is probably either a cloned Anakin Solo or Jag Fel.

Why?
Bloodlines features Lama Su the Kimonian cloner. Maybe....
Jag Fel's mom is Corellian and he dishonored himself among the Chiss, so perhaps he is living under a fake name in Corellia

This new series isn't holding back at all. It is moving at hyperspeed. I thought they would draw out Jacen's turn, but he went right away. So I don't expect anything to go slowly.

This is from the book jacket:


Jacen, now a complete master of the Force, has his own plans to bring order to the galaxy. Guided by his Sith mentor, Lumiya, and with Luke’s young son Ben at his side, Jacen embarks on the same path that his grandfather Darth Vader once did. And while Han and Leia watch their only son become a stranger, a secret assassin entangles the couple with a dreaded name from Han’s past: Boba Fett. In the new galactic order, friends and enemies are no longer what they seem. . . .

And there is the line about:

mother versus son and sister versus brother as Luke faces his deepest fears.

okay so we know whose facing who...but Luke's greatest fear to me is the Darkside. Does this mean he feels he has to tap inot it to beat Jacen?

Luke...you poor deluded master

"You don't know my students. You don't know how impulsive and reckless they are. Don't judge them all by Jacen. Kyp Durron killed millions. And this was your responsibility. The situation was complex. I was paralyzed, and Kyp was under the control of...."

"- You mean to say that it was not your responsibility. "

"I could have been more aware of the situation. There's so much I could have done"

"- So it is your responsibility."

" The next time it will be! The next time one of my students is swept away on a dark whirlwind and catastrophe results, it will be my fault!"

" Of course it would not be your fault. You are a Jedi Master, not a nursemaid! "

-Luke Skywalker, Jedi Master of the New Republic, and Vergere, Jedi Knight of the Old Republic

Those Tassels and Their Meaning!!!

Let's interpret the tassels:

He will remake himself

Jacen has already done this in a sence by going on his Force journey

He will ruin those who deny justice

Ben even says that's what Jedi do. Jacen will ruin those who stand in the way of what he considers justice

He will choose the fate of the weak

Vergere told him to be the gardener and choose the weds and the flowers.

He will be drawn from peace into conflict or his life will be balanced between peace and conflict

This was the Sith specific tassel that only Jacen could read. I prefer the balanced level of this as I think Jacen's Sithliness might be a little different from what we expect...


He will choose how he will be loved

Meaning he will have a messed up relationship with his family, possibly Tenel Ka (if she doesn't die) and definately Allana

He will win and break his chains

OK, pretty much this has happened. He doesn't follow the dogmatic view of the Force

He will shed his skin and choose a new skin

This will be when he is "outed" ???

He will strengthen himself through sacrifice

Hmmmm...perhaps in "Sacrifice"

He will crawl through his cloak

He will slowly emerge as a public Sith

He will know brotherhood

Others will join him. No more rule of two. A new Order? Who would support him? I really don't know.

He will make a pet

He will create something? Is that what Yoda was...a Sith creation? LOL!


He will strengthen himself through pain

Already happened!!!

I found this and it's funny...I did not write it...I just like it...

Strange Meeting

They were in some state that wasn't quite southern and wasn't quite midwest, probably northern Kentucky or southern West Virginia by this time, just passing through. But at the full-service gas station a toothless attendant had started telling Sam all about a meteorite crash and the poltergeist (he said "powddargahst," but by now Sam was an expert in translating yokel) that had taken up residence in the area. Apparently things had been just rising up and floating away for a week or more, and people who tried to follow the objects tended to forget what they were doing very quickly.

And so they were still here, two nights later, in a crappy little town in northern Kentucky (or southern West Virginia) with one barely decent bar. And Sam had decided that it was a good time to go powddargahst-hunting. Telekinesis reminded him of Max, of his own newfound skill at mentally rearranging the furniture. Maybe they'd find something of importance out here.

They headed out to inspect the meteor crash site. The woods were so quiet that birdsong echoed. Dean crept up next to Sam and informed him that if they heard so much as a note of "Dueling Banjos," he was going to kill him. Or just trip him and leave him for the rednecks.

They'd been walking for more than an hour when they came upon a long patch of downed trees; further ahead, it turned into a jumbled mess of trees and plowed earth, like a giant had been skipping stones over dry land. In a clearing to the right, there was a glimmer of firelight.

Sam nodded his head in the direction of the thickest underbrush and the two of them took cover behind it, guns held ready. They cut a wide circle through the woods, bringing them much closer to the firelight. They stopped in a crouch only a few yards away from what looked like a makeshift campsite. There was a dark shape sitting beside it, facing away from them.

And abruptly, the shape spoke. "Why don't you gentlemen come out?"

Sam and Dean exchanged surprised glances, then shrugged and stood up, guns aimed in the direction of the voice. The shape unfolded into a lanky figure, then turned around slowly.

He was completely human, wearing a black jumpsuit that looked kind of like a fighter-pilot outfit. Dean was pleased to note that he was himself a couple of inches taller than the guy in front of them. He was even more pleased to note that the guy appeared to be unarmed. "You the one controlling this poltergeist?" he demanded, shifting his aim.

"I beg your pardon?" He looked maddeningly relaxed, considering two larger men had two very well-cared-for guns pointed in his face.

"There's a poltergeist hanging around the town, making things move, knocking out lights. Is it you?" Sam asked.

The man flicked his eyes from one man to the other. "I don't know what a poltergeist is, but I'm not one, nor am I controlling one, and if you two don't get those pop-guns out of my face right now, you're going to find them in your mouths."

Dean cocked his shotgun; the noise rang loud in the silent clearing. "That's not really convincing."

Sam, ever the diplomat--he really would have made a good lawyer--took a less offensive stand. "So if it's not a poltergeist, what is it?" he asked. "Are you a telekinetic?"

"I'm a Jedi," he snapped.

Dean chuckled and adjusted his aim. "Yeah, right. 'S that a lightsaber in your pocket, or are you just happy to see--"

Suddenly their guns were yanked out of their hands. There was a crackling, hissing sound, and then there was a beam of purple light pointing at Dean's chin.

"Holy shit," Dean said.

Sam stood gaping, apparently stunned, but the guy--the Jedi--shot him a sharp glance. "Don't even think about it, Sammy," he said.

Sam started. "How did you--"

"Jedi," he repeated impatiently.

"Right, right."

Dean was still staring warily at the tip of the lightsaber blade. It was very close to his face, which made him go slightly cross-eyed. "Uh, hey, college boy? Why don't you give me a hand with some of that weaselly lawyer-speak you were learning. Defuse the situation? Get the lightsaber out of my face?"

"Yeah, um...dude? Jedi Master...sir? Please don't kill my brother. We're not...bounty hunters or Sith Lords or anything. We swear."

Dean rolled his eyes. "Thanks, man, that was brilliant."

The Jedi eyed them both one more time, then shut down the lightsaber and returned it to his belt. "If you were dangerous, I'd have sensed it. You're remarkably difficult to distract, though; I've been keeping the locals away for a week." He paused for a second, apparently sizing them up, then held out his hand. "Jedi Master Kyp Durron."

"Nice to meet you. We're--"

"Sam and Dean Winchester."

Dean rolled his eyes again. "Yeah," he sighed, but his handshake was more or less friendly. "So no offense, but what the hell are you doing here?"

"I crashed. Got winged by a gravitic anomaly and lost all my nav systems. I sent a message back to base and they've dispatched a cruiser to pick me up." He sighed. "Jaina's never going to let me live this down."

"So you've been stealing supplies using telek--using the Force," Sam finished. "Right?"

Kyp shrugged. "Man has to eat. I ran out of rations a few days ago, and had to turn to the, uh, kindness of strangers. My turn. What are you two doing out here?"

"We thought--" Sam began. "We thought you could help us. But I--we were expecting something else."

"Sorry, the guru-stuff is Skywalker's business. And I'm not looking for an apprentice."
Sam just stared at him at the mention of Skywalker--God, what a nerd--so Dean picked up the slack. "Hey, maybe you're a Jedi, Sammy," Dean smirked. "But if we find out that Hayden Christiansen is your dad, I'm totally killing you."

"If Hayden Christiansen is my father? I'll totally let you."

Dean turned back to Kyp. "Hey, speaking of killing people, can we have our guns back?"

"Will you keep them out of my face?"

"Yeah," Dean admitted grudgingly.

Kyp gestured with his hand, and the two guns floated gently off the ground and into their hands. They took them with a nod of thanks.

"Well," Dean said. "Sorry about the whole ambush thing. No hard feelings?"

"I'm not going to stab you when you turn your backs," Kyp promised with a lopsided grin. "That wouldn't be sporting."

Not quite reassured by this, they turned to go. It was getting cold, and a clammy fog was rolling up from the valley. Dean hesitated, then turned back. "It's damn cold out here. Want to go for a drink?"

Kyp grinned, dousing the fire with another sharp hand gesture. "Find us a nice, weak-minded barkeep and I'll keep us in drinks all night."

Dean grinned back and almost slung an arm over the Jedi Master's shoulder. "I think I know just the place."

Some quiz said MY lightsaber color was purple!

Kind of silly since the two most prominent Jedi with purple lightbabers are the most likely TO be fighting in the conflict.

Crazed Speculation

This one is crazy:

What if Nelani was Kyp Durron's daughter? I mean she just came from no where and was recently knighted. So she'd be around 20.

Perhaps Kyp only recently discovered she belonged to him. Now he finds out she is killed.

What will he do?

This would work in Bloodlines, might drive his character motivations some and certainly fits in with the "he was meant to suffer theme...."

OMG I just re-read my dream. I forgot that I had said in the dream..".you could give him someone and then kill them off!" That fits with Nelani.

I just stumbled over someone's musings, but they made sense and finally allowed me to understand why Corran does not like Kyp:

Corran believes essentially that the Dark Side is just like any other criminal mindset. It effects only those who are already messed up in the head to some degree. As a police officer, there are just "good" and "bad people" to a certain extent.

So he would think that Kyp had a criminal mind which caused him to desire vengence and would make him always be corruptable.

Review of Betrayal

Aaron Allston wirtes books you can enjoy. He does not write literature, nor will reading his books increase your vocabualary. However, you will laugh and you will have moments of extreme joy while reading Betrayal. This book satisfies on many levels.

Our basic plot is the disillusionment of Corellia with the GA. Corellia prepares to defect from the alliance and the alliance offers a counter strike. At the brink of war, families are suddenly forced to decide their own personal alliances. Of course this is a problem for Wedge, whose daughter is in the GA military. Han, whose family is Jedi and somehow sworn to the GA. Corran, who previously was practically married to the GA, now has a huge decision ahead of him also.

Allston moves fluidly through the story. There aren't many characters or locations and that keeps things easy to follow. Of course Jacen and Ben travel to Lorrd where they meet with Brisha Syo (who is Lumiya). Lumiya has a nice chat with Jacen and he fully accepts what he already was becoming...a Sith. If we go through the stages...we have denial before we have acceotance. Jacen's motivations will compel readers to follow the series through to the end.

Characterizations are interesting: The strongest is Han. He reflects on his choices, his duty, his family. He has fabulous inteactions with others, both humor and sadness. I think we are poised to have some really sad interaction with Jacen down the line. You get the feeling that Han was just starting to get Jacen and then the kid turns Sithly. Poor guy...surrounded by Force-sensitives, father-in-law was a Sith; now his son.

Ben has been written very cool, strong, precocious, but still 13. Ben Skywalker may slowly but surely become the same character Anakin Solo was in the first couple NJO books. He watches Jacen and feels for him in the Force. I can't wait to see how he discovers what Jacen is up to. I thnk he'll follow a dark path for awhile and then escape (hopefully to Sekot) and return a Scion of light.

Luke was most annoying. He is the GRANDMASTER DICTAOR. He meets with Omas, no other Jedi. No other masters are mentioned. He tells everyone what to do. He clears the missions. There are a few scenes where is strength is awesome and I like them, but too often he was boss man. Jaina wants to run who investigates the tassel by Luke and Jacen responds: "Let's not. He's been second guessing a lot of my instincts lately...even though he keeps telling me to trust them. " Jaina lets it go, but that is the essence of Jacen.

Jacen our dark and lovely who can stop blaster fire with his bare hand, who sees the future (so he thinks), who is all cold inside (according to Ben).

Satisfaction level: 9/10 Writing ability: 8/10 (humor and references save it)

Just a dumb rant

I am reading all the forums on the Betrayal book. while most of the comments are sensible the dumbest ones have to do with how absolutely infantile some people see the issues. I think a lot of people suffer from Yoda Syndrome. I absolutely hate the sanctamoneous green troll! He (read: Lucas) tried to make the complications of life into a few simple words. Well life isn't simple or black and white and that is what makes the new book a cut above. And yes what makes people say: "It lost the spirit of the moview". Well yeah and it should. Lucas is a twit. He once said he madethe movies for the "kiddies". Well that expalins Jar Jar Binks and all the other stupid shit he layers in.

I want the story of choices, family, redemption, sacrifice, love, honor. I want the thoughts of people and I want action that drives the plot, not just there to be eye candy. And I want Jacen to be a Sith and not come back to the light and dammit! Yes, it is possible to be stronger than Luke Skywalker!

More Musings on Evil

WWJD ? What Will Jacen Do?

He doesn't want to kill Luke. He wants power to keep peace and thinks power will not corrupt him. He is much like Exar Kun seeking knowledge in all directions.

In response to a question regarding his strength versus Luke's :

"No just educated in different directions."

Jacen rests after killing Jedi Nelani, which if he believed in the darkside, would have been his turning point.

Dark Lord of the Sith?

Is this the face of Jacen Solo?

He is described as handsome: "his lean, brooding, and handsome looks."

Isn't it more fun to have a handsome Sith than some masked weezing dude, or the Tatooed Darth Maul or crumbling Sideous?

I mean, it's like Dracula. The whole allure is that there is underlying sensuality that compels you to this evil even though you know you should not!

My collection of possible foreshadowing in Betrayal

Here are strange foreshadowing quotes:

p.27: Han: “They say the force can have a profound effect on people who don’t want to believe the truth.” Luke replies: “No, they don’t”.

They were joking about Jaina, but think how that applies to Luke, his vision, and Jacen.

p.30 Han: “Next thing you know, we’ll have Jedi walking the government halls on Corellia and telling us what to do.”

Well, could Jacen defect to the Corellians ?

p. 34 Mara: “Do you have a favorite prosthetics manufacturer? I can preorder you one.” She is joking with Jacen regarding why all the “kids” have smart mouths and who they inherited them from.

Hmmmm…need I say more.

p. 117 Luke thinks: “Sometimes he bitterly regretted the oaths and traditions that bound the Jedi Order to the Galactic Alliance.”

First off, I am confused. When did the Jedi take an oath to the GA? Sure they feel tradition bound and duty bound to serve democracy, but an actual political entity? Wasn’t that the whole argument in the DNT? So does that mean that Luke, as grandmaster, has decided to tell the Jedi they must support the GA?

I put this in foreshadowing for two reasons. One, Luke “regrets” this…will he end up turning his back on the GA? Two, what do the other masters think of this? Do they agree with him?

p. 326 Lumiya states about Ben:

"He's not yet strong enough to face a Sith." Ben replies: "I'll just resist al temptation."

Will Ben grow older and face Jacen? I think so. Will he resist temptation? Most of the time, but he'll follow darkness before the dawn!

My first reaction to Betrayal

Here's a break in all things Kyp. Betrayal has NO Kyp, which is a bit hard to swallow, but I think he will show up in the other books. I think there is still unresolved relationship between the GA and the Jedi. So far the new book ties into the previous books only by allowing that Jaina and Zekk continue to work together (but are only hinted at romantically), and that Jacen continues his Sithly behavior. Nothing else from the other series is really dealved into.

So where do we go now?

Jacen Solo is a Sith.

I mean he’s only a little more a Sith than he was in Dark Nest. In those books he lied continuously to get what he needed, he believed the ends justified the means, he once stated power unused is power wasted (which was thought by Darth Maul in some book). Yes, Jacen attacked T’aa Chume, but she was evil and tried to kill his daughter. That act of revenge could be somewhat justified by a modern Jedi. Jacen mind wiped Ben also. Lastly Jacen agreed and admired Anakin Skywalker after his Darkside turn! So one might say Jacen was already a Sith.
In Betrayal Jacen acts the same way, but by the end he openly accepts Lumiya’s tutoring and he kills Nelani in cold blood. So at the end of Betrayal there is nothing to doubt or debate: Jacen Solo is a Sith! And that is way more cooler than being some Darkside dabbler.

Fallen Jedi

I just read Dark Lords of the Sith, which despite not so great drawing (though nothing is as bad as Dark Empire) had a good story. So Exar Kun fell because he wanted to know everything. He was on a quest for the ultimate knowledge. Ulic Qel-Droma fell becasue he thought he could suvert the darkness from within, b ut was beaten by it anyways. And Anakin Skywalker feel becasue he wanted to be able to control situations and became possessive in his loove.

Okay, so Jacen isn't really dark, but he is on a quest for knowledge. After 5 years of traveling he had to have learned some Sith stuff, he had to have visited Korriban, I simply refuse to believe he did just happy lightside stuff. How that plays out later remains to be seen, but still!

Luke never really fell to the darkside. In Dark Empire he did just a little, but his whole point was subvert from within! He only wanted to understand his father better.

Anakin's fall was the lamest only because it should have been more complicated. He was a former slave and way to exceptional. He really needed to control the situations around him. This likely came form the lack of control from childhood, but really he should never have been so easily turned. His love for Padme was obsession with a huge possessive streak.

Kyp, former slave....need I say more...give him a girlfriend and a family and he'll show you over protectiveness bordering on possessive!

Kyp's personality was formed through the infinite sadness

"What good is being a Jedi if we don't act?"
He wouldn't have been who he was in the Old Order. there he would have been taken as an infant and trained away from his parents. He would have become an ordinary Jedi. This would have been a NR time and thus his parents wouldn't have be dissidents and wouldn't have been mprisoin ed or killed. So thus Kyp would not have known Kessel, imprisonment, and the sheer hopelessness of an uncertain fate and indefinate slavery. With none of these things to build on and no mistraining by Luke he would have been a very differenent person. He most certainly would have lacked the anger and thus even the level of passion of Mace Windu.

Think about what shaped him:

1. Being raised by dissidents during an oppressive empire
2. Arrest and immprisonment at age 8
3. Working in a spice mine with your parents who can't protect you
4. Losing your parents at age 9, opossibly seeing their murders
5. Spending 7 mnore hopless years imprisoned, starved, beaten, mentally abused and uncertain if you would live or die
6. Escaping to only find that you are interrogated and sentenced to death by Imperialists

All these things would lead you to feel helpless and one way to combat the helplessness is to find empowerment. How?

As a Jedi Kyp could help the enslaved, the oppressed, the exploited and the helpless. So he might be zealous about it, but he feels it is his obligation. It is likely he would be behaving this way even if he had never turned dark. Kyp acts out of a need to protect the galaxy, not to neccessarily atone for his crimes. Having once been so limited with little hope , it is understanding that Kyp would develop the mindset:

"What good is being a Jedi if we don't act?"

He'll carry this ideal throughout his life and choices.

Destiny's Way

Well this book had a lot going on at once. We will focus basically on Kyp of course.

p. 47 "Kyp's reflex..was to project concern. Since Jaina's involvement with Jagged Fel, Kyp had been a nurturing presence, almost parental, and neither he nor Jaina knew how to reconcile his new persona with his earlier smoldering identity as the angry young man of the Jedi."

So Kyp had to just step back and let the younger guy get the girl!!! Poor guy! Yet, he's still her friend.

p. 190 Jaina and Kyp discuss Jacen's return and Jaina asks how does she explain her fall to the darkside to which Kyp responds, "you may as well tell him the truth". Good "Be true to yourself Kyp. He may be a murderer and aggressive, but he tells it like it is. That's why he irritates everyone and disagrees with Luke. Not to be a jerk for jerkiness sake, but becasue he is honest to his conscience. "Anger is dark, but the love of justice is light." Kyp is using an analogy to drive home the point that aggression can be justified.

Luke asks him to be on the Jedi council. I thought that was the best! Finally the man gets the respect he deserves. Of course Luke's motive was more to keep an eye on him because it is easier to have control when you let the enemy into the inner circle rather than alienating them.

p.259: "Wouldn't it be greivous to have Kyp running around loose where the council can't control him?"

Kyp is called in to the first council meeting and is surprised. He asks why he is there, but once he realizes he is on the council he begins to do a good job, though there is the oner funny point where Luke admits he needs to be more aggressive and Kyp says: "Am I the only one here who simply wants to punch Skywalker in the nose?"

Kyp is justified in his anger, though by the time he says this statement he has cooled down and is half joking. Luke had been so adament that agression was darkside. The nhe totally changed. Here's Kyp thinking he was wrong and sliding more towards Luke's way of thought. As he saus, "Being a good little Jedi"

Luke defines agression as an unprovoked attack, taking something that is not yours or helping someone take something that is not yours.

By definition Kyp's actions against the pirates and smaugglers were not agression because the pirates were attacking others too weak to defend themselves and Kyp only defended the innocent.

Finally this story has the knighting of the younger Jedi. Kyp knights Jaina becasue she and he are pilots (and well he was her master) and he and Luke knight Zekk because all three knew the darkside.

Overall I liked this book because Kyp was in character as a more mature person who still voices his opinion yet is honored to have his opinion sought after. He is somewhat thoughtful and mentors Jaina.

Rebel Stand

Poor Kyppie! He will never be lucky in love. In Rebel Stand he contemplates his feelings for Jaina and thinks:

He could make her happy.

I have always found that line so sad because he isn't all that happy himself and yet she's in even worse condition. They are sort of two of the same kind.

I love how they fly together in this novel. It shows that Kyp is really a good guy because Jaina clearly likes Jag better and yet Kyp thinks he doesn't really dislike the other guy. He flies perpendicular to the ground while holding two shadow bombs with the force behind Jag. Jaina is impressed since she can't fly with that much control. So there is Kyp in a physical position to kill his rival and that doesn't even come into his head. He really is not a dark side kind of guy!

I like the idea of Kyp as the awesome pilot. I love the idea he won't fly under military command and he won't wear military clothing. He prefers that the government has no say in what he does. He's his own man and I like that in people in general.

I love his loyality to Jaina and his willingness to sacrifice to help her and Jag. This was truly the pinnacle of Kyp's character arc. I think after this point he was Kyp like, but never again did you question his motives and think he would fall to the darkside.

The Beginning of "Partners Whatever that Means"

When they land at Borelias Luke remarks, “You look tired.”
“Not tired, just different. “ Answers Kyp. Han and Leia notice the difference too. “It looks like Jaina’s not the only one who went through changes.”
“Obviously a fake Kyp, you distract him and I’ll shoot him under the table ,” Han jokes back.

He has been humbled by his experience, which oddly only lasted one month. He decides to fly under Jaina’s command as she plans to wage psychological warfare on the Vong. Unfortunately another green eyed man is going to join them, Jag Fel. The three end up making a team that flies quite successfully tricking and damaging the Vong ships.

Jaina and Kyp use a force meld, but she won’t let herself fully open to him because she is afraid they will grow too close. She believes it is just a matter of time before she is killed and she feels her death would torture Kyp especially if they built too close a force bond. Read it as you want. I think she wasn’t able to fall in love with him because at the time she felt she would die and she couldn’t risk hurting someone. She decided to keep Kyp as her mentor so she could insist he maintain a Master-Apprentice relationship and stop showing her personal interest. So Kyp is abandoned by Jaina. He is abandoned even more later when she decides to try on a relationship with Jag.

First there is some interesting flying in which we see Kyp demonstrate the two things he excels at: piloting and mental control. He launches a shadow bomb and flies it along behind Jag. He does this effortlessly, and Jaina can also, but it isn’t as easy for her. Then Jag is in real trouble and Kyp saves him by turning a dovin basal in on itself which causes the Vong ship to implode. He does this through an incredible amount of Force strength and while he does this he thinks:
He was stronger in the Force than Luke Skywalker. He had known that since they met-that he had more pure power than the legendary Jedi Master. But this was the first time he’d been able to say it to himself without a thrill of pride. He was just stronger and that was all.

A map of the Star Wars Galaxy with the Planets

http://www.personal.psu.edu/jpa117/notwebsitestuff/star_wars_galaxy_map_2.jpg

I liked this map because it was so comprehensive.

Jaina's not so dark journey with Kyp

During Dark Journey Kyp uses the force to move a freighter to destroy a Vong ship. It works, but the ship’s dovin basal pulls several of his pilots into it and kills them. He once again has made mistakes with the best of intentions. This is common for him. He escorts the Falcon to Hapes where he learns that Jaina is landing with the stolen YV ship. He escorts her down as a favor for Leia and Han, but also because he greatly admires Jaina.

Kyp’s first really interaction with Jaina is when he shows up at the palace to escort her to Anakin’s funeral. He shows his desire for her when he sees her in the sexy red dress and states, “You couldn’t channel the force in that dress. There’s no room for it to squeeze through.” After the funeral a grieving Jaina avoids her friends by stating Kyp has asked her to be his apprentice. This fully repulses Zekk who basically flees the planet. Kyp and Jaina work together to figure out how to use the stolen ship to create tricks that will fool the Vong and perhaps strike a blow.
Jaina is turning to the Darkside slightly and is fueled by grief, despair, and anger. She needs to do some very questionable things to get information. She wants to use a pirate in prison who has an implant. She asks Kyp to help her. He teaches her how to mind wipe so others don’t know what happened and they can keep it a secret. Since the guy is a pirate Kyp has no problem using the force to overpower him. Jaina on the other hand is more cruel than he. At one point she is so mad at him she tries to shoot him with Force lightening, but he is able to make it fade. “If I can summon it, I can dispel it.” he says.

Later, Jaina is sending up missions and Kyp is angry. They duel and he flies for her. Then they fly together and she has a vision. Kyp intrudes into her visions and brings her back around. It is evident his mind powers are fairly extraordinary with his mind wiping and his ability to get within her visions and bring her back to her senses even though they were in space in separate ships. Despite his toying with the dark, Kyp remains honorable because at the end he realizes:
“Perhaps it is you who is saving me”

Dark Journey marks Kyp’s turning point. He helps Jaina overcome her grief and make safer choices. He faces the Darkside and realizes how close he is to falling to it. They use the battle meld together and become quite mentally in tune with each other. Kyp of course also begins to fall in love with her. At the end they join together to go to Borelias to join up with the rest of the Jedi. Kyp is more willing now to be a team player. He states he wants to help form a Jedi Council.

This One is Trouble

Kyp reappears in Star by Star as an outsider. He is unaware of the mission to destroy the voxyn. When we meet up with him he is getting data from Luke and Mara. Saba is also in attendance. Saba seems to have an incredible ability to read people that has yet to be fully explained in the novels. She seems capable of sensing the Darkside in Jedi. She has a sense awareness stronger than humans. Kyp is described as demonstrating a “flash of hatred showed in his cold eyes.“ Kyp’s outrage was a tangible thing in the force, filling the room with a crackling energy that seemed in danger of blasting the doors off their quiet meeting place.“ Here he is written as very dark and on the edge. “Crackling energy” is usually reserved for those moments when someone let’s loose with Force lightening. Will he go dark or not? Those were the big questions Kyp Durron’s character produced.

There is minor scene where Anakin, Jaina, and the others are watching at an outpost, but under orders to not engage the Vong. Kyp and the Dozen come along and engage the enemy. Kyp uses the shadow bomb for the first time and Anakin can’t figure out what it is. He is even pondering if Kyp used the Darkside to destroy the ship. Then Kyp’s dozen is in trouble and the “kids” go in to help out. Finally Kyp explains how he used telekinesis to propel the bombs into the coral skippers.

Saba Sabatyne states that Kyp is trouble because he is not willing to listen and he is nearly crazed with compulsion to go into action. Can anyone say mania? Here he is written by Troy Denning who seems to find him to be exceedingly agitated, angry, and impassioned. Once again, not very Jedi like behavior. Luke is nearly done with him flying in on occasion and basically posturing. He tells Kyp he needs his promise. Finally Han takes control and gives Kyp his famed lecture:
“An oath of allegiance, what do you think? Han asked, his tone almost angry. “You promise to obey Luke and do what he says as long as he’ll have you. If you won’t do that, pack your bags and get out now.” He paused and his tone grew a little more gentle. “It’s time you started acting like a Jedi knight.”
Despite all this Kyp turns to his Dozen and asks them if they are willing to follow Luke’s orders and fly with them. He is fiercely democratic with his squadron despite the fact that he is a natural born leader. I think this shows he chooses democracy over dictatorship. He chooses free will over control. He would not make a good Sith Lord with this attitude!
The book ends with Kyp flying during the battle before Coruscant. Most of his squadron dies (is that anything new?) and he goes EV. He helps Cilghal out a bit then goes back into battle during the true Battle of Coruscant. Which is where Dark Journey picks up.