Attack of the Conscience

On the icy terrain of Starkiller Base, a training simulation unfolds, mirroring the Imperial assault upon the rebel base located on Hoth. This exercise involves various First Order forces, including stormtroopers, AT-AT walkers, TIE/fo space superiority fighters, and AAL-1971/9.1 Troop Transports. Two stormtroopers, FN-2003 and his comrade FN-2187 (later known as "Finn"), are participants. The narrator highlights this moment as the initial stride towards Finn's significant future.

FN-2003 proudly brandishes his blaster rifle, while FN-2187 remains seated, enthusiastically supporting his fellow troopers. Captain Phasma, displaying her disapproval, instructs him to maintain silence, emphasizing the nature of the exercise. FN-2187, in a cheerful manner, points out a simulated cluster of enemy fighters in the corner to FN-2003. FN-2003 proceeds to eliminate the cardboard targets and then launches a detonator at a replica of Echo Base's deflector shield generator. However, the detonator ricochets off the cardboard structure, resulting in an explosion that causes FN-2003 to fall. Subsequently, Phasma directs FN-2187 to engage in the exercise, tasking him with planting the First Order's flag. FN-2187, filled with enthusiasm, pledges to fulfill her expectations, to which Phasma responds with a skeptical "we shall see."

Following the completion of the training drill, FN-2187 and FN-2003 are officially inducted as stormtroopers and attend a rally conducted by Kylo Ren, who proclaims the day as a momentous occasion for the First Order. The two troopers exchange jokes regarding Kylo Ren's volatile demeanor until Phasma demands silence within the ranks. Kylo Ren then declares the stormtroopers' imminent assault on the inhabitants of Jakku, eliciting cheers from the assembled troops. Finn questions the justification for targeting the people of Jakku, prompting Phasma to explain that they possess something of value to the First Order. While FN-2187 remains puzzled, FN-2003 asserts that the First Order does not challenge directives. Phasma then inquires whether FN-2187 struggles with obedience, to which he denies.

Kylo Ren subsequently commands the stormtroopers and TIE fighter pilots to mobilize. FN-2187 is left behind, and Captain Phasma sternly urges him to hasten. As he departs, FN-2187 mutters that the First Order did not address this matter during the orientation. After boarding an Atmospheric Assault Lander, Phasma instructs her subordinates to prepare their equipment for an assault in two minutes. While FN-2003 and the other stormtroopers express their enthusiasm, FN-2187 remains uneasy about the mission and requests FN-2003 to reiterate the mission's significance. FN-2003 silences FN-2187, advising him to keep his helmet secured to avoid reprimand. However, FN-2187 complains that his helmet impairs his vision.

As the lander descends into Jakku's atmosphere, a reluctant FN-2187 moves towards the rear of the stormtroopers, only to realize that it is the front ramp. Captain Phasma commends FN-2187 for his initiative in leading the assault, much to Finn's dismay. As the ramp descends, FN-2187's helmet hangs loosely, and he observes Tuanul village in the distance. Phasma then declares that his destiny awaits him.