Dear readers,
I want to extend my deepest apologies for what I am about to announce regarding the story of Eli Kaen.
As the author, I've spent a great deal of time reflecting on the current trajectory of the novel. While I've deeply appreciated the journey we've taken so far, I've come to realize that the direction the story has taken no longer aligns with my creative vision. There are ideas, ones I feel passionate about and believe would enrich the narrative, I have not yet found a proper way to incorporate. Because of this, I've made the difficult decision to retcon much of the existing plot and rewrite the chapters up to the current point.
One of the core changes will involve Eli's ability. The original concept of him dying and resetting to the day before the Temple attack has, over time, become too limiting, both narratively and structurally. I've come to recognize that confining the story to a single day has placed Eli's development, and my own storytelling, into a corner.
Moving forward, I'll be shifting the concept toward a simulation-based narrative. Rather than physically resetting upon death, Eli will gain the ability to simulate future events. Experiencing outcomes and learning from them without real-world consequence. This change will allow for more dynamic storytelling and greater depth to Eli's growth as he begins to understand the weight of choice, responsibility, and the Force.
Additionally, the timeline will be expanded. Instead of beginning just one day before the Temple attack, the story will now take place roughly a week before that pivotal event. This adjustment will allow for more breathing room in the plot and a deeper, more meaningful exploration of the characters, especially Eli.
I also want to be honest about another major change: I will be removing the concept of Eli being a reincarnated person from Earth. While I initially wanted to explore that idea, I now believe that Eli's journey will resonate more powerfully if he is written as a native of the Star Wars universe, someone discovering the Force and his identity within it from a more grounded and organic place. This change, I feel, will allow for a cleaner and more immersive narrative experience.
Please understand that none of these decisions have been made lightly. I know many of you have invested your time, thoughts, and emotions into this story and Eli's journey. I do not take that for granted. This rewrite is not meant to break the trust we've built together, but rather to rebuild the foundation of the story in a way that will allow it to flourish moving forward.
The heart of the story remains unchanged: Eli will continue to grow, to struggle, and to learn what it truly means to be a Jedi. The Force will remain a central theme, mysterious, powerful, and deeply spiritual. And with this new structure, I hope to finally bring the vision I've carried all along to life.
I sincerely hope you'll bear with me through this process and continue walking this path with me. Thank you for your understanding, your patience, and your support. It means more than I can say.
With gratitude,
FallenNebula.