28.

(Interlude – Bastila)

Wrinkling her nose in distaste, Bastila rubs her palm across the transparisteel surface of an archaic Rakata monitor in an attempt to clear away the centuries of grime that have accumulated. Even though her hand comes away covered in a layer of filth the security feed remains grainy and indistinct, familiar backdrops reduced to blurry specters painted in shades of blue and white. Even so, she's able to recognize the unique spectacle of Force lightning arcing through the air, shot from the fingertips of a lean figure whose graceful movements are distinctly lethal. A fond smile plays on her lips. "Oh Revan, combat always has been an art for you. I'm glad you've stopped denying it," she remarks, sending a glimmer of amusement through the Force bond. The emotion is met with a jolt of surprise, followed by a cold stream of irritation.

The sharp hum of multiple lightsabers crackles over the ancient speakers, making Bastila frown as she peers closely at the video. Worry creases her brow and she nibbles her bottom lip in contemplation, her fingertips disbelievingly tracing shapes that appear to be Juhani and Jolee as they battle their way through a unit of droids. From what her master has told her, Rakata tradition dictates that only one individual may enter their sacred temple at a time. While Revan managed to circumvent this rule during his first visit, the Supreme Commander didn't expect it to happen twice. "Well," she mutters with a thin smirk. "It seems your powers of persuasion haven't diminished."

A low thrum of challenge shimmers across the bond, the sensation so sudden and powerful that it causes Bastila to tense in surprise. The shriek of blaster fire and crackle of lightning has stopped, drawing her attention back to the bank of monitors where she notes that the complex turrets guarding the upper rooms of the temple have been dismantled. Both Jolee and Juhani seem to be breathing hard, though their postures are triumphant as they bob their heads to each other in silent approval. Revan's back is to his friends as he stares up at the camera with an expression that might be bitter satisfaction. Another burst of emotion travels between him and the Padawan, the message is clear. He's coming for her.

"I would expect nothing less," Bastila murmurs, tensing her grip on the hilt of her dual-bladed lightsaber. With one last glance at the smeared screen she draws a deep breath, the crimson edges of her robe flowing around her legs as she turns to exit the small control room that she's been occupying. The soft material of her boots is nearly silent as she sprints down the familiar corridors of the temple, her mostly-black clothing blending with the deep shadows that line the walls. As she runs she can feel the pulse of three Force signatures moving towards her, two of them nearly eclipsed by the pure, raw strength of the third.

Leaping up a stone ramp, Bastila squints as she enters the open-air courtyard that sits atop the temple's summit. Pressing her back against a stone column she slows her pace, carefully slinking forward as she keeps her attention trained on the darkened doorway that marks the only other entrance to the roof. Despite the tall walls rising up on all sides, the area beyond the temple interior is remarkably exposed when viewed from certain angles. Using this knowledge to her advantage, she positions herself so that she has an unobstructed view of the moment that Revan bursts into bright sunlight, flanked by his companions.

Frustration filters through the bond, reaching a frigid peak as the former Knight snarls, "Bastila, I know you're up here!" His original lightsaber hums angrily as he slashes the air. "Show yourself, you kriffing coward!"

Carefully slipping from her place behind the column, the Padawan holds both hands plus her weapon aloft and in full view as she saunters into the open. "Harsh words," she comments airily. "Am I truly a coward for considering my options, given the situation?" She inclines her head towards the other Force users with a placid smile. "After all, three against one is hardly fair."

"And you backstabbing Carth?" Frowning in disapproval, Revan grits his teeth. "That was fair?"

"I stabbed him in the side, not the back," Bastila clarifies, though her tone quickly grows concerned. "Is he…?"

"He's fine, despite your best efforts," Jolee tuts disapprovingly.

A faint sigh of relief escapes Bastila and her shoulders relax minutely. "Good." A smile tugs at one corner of her lips. "I was rooting for him, in the end."

"You sure have a funny way of showing it." Taking a step forward, righteous anger flares cold and harsh around the former Knight as the same emotion floods the bond, breathtaking in its intensity.

Exhaling heavily, Bastila shakes her head. "Oh, the situation is far more complicated than it appears." Lowering her hands but still keeping them in sight, she hums thoughtfully. "You of all people should realize that there are always multiple sides to every story, Revan."

"Don't call me that." The former Knight narrows his eyes in irritation. "It's not my name, not anymore."

"Fine," Bastila concedes. "Vann, then. But no matter what name you choose to go by, you are Revan. You cannot escape that fact. The way you move, the way you fight, every fiber of your being…"

"Stop!" The pure power of the Force infuses the man's words as he bares his teeth, thrusting one lightsaber at the Padawan. "I'm not listening to your bantha shit anymore!"

Inhaling sharply, Bastila falls still as the blade is aimed at her throat. "I'm not lying," she states. "That's something you can confirm easily enough. We're in each other's mind, after all."

Silent until this point, Juhani furrows her brows as she looks at her leader. "Vann," she warns, "Be careful. She has fooled us all before."

There's a harsh surge of power as the former Knight's consciousness surges through the Force bond and attempts to hammer its way into Bastila's head. When she lowers the mental shields guarding the deeper recesses of her mind, she immediately feels the disquieting sensation of someone skimming through her thoughts. Sharing headspace with Revan had previously been an astonishing experience, and that was before he regained such command of his formidable powers. He's recovered more of his strength since they were forced to part ways and now his very presence threatens to overwhelm her. Fury and mistrust surge through their connection, the emotions so potent that they make her dizzy.

It's a few long minutes before Revan begrudgingly admits, "I think she's telling the truth. Or at least she's not overtly lying."

"Well that's a refreshing change," Jolee quips sarcastically, snorting in contempt. "So, kid, I assume you're here on behalf of your 'master' as a last-ditch effort to stop us from reaching that forge?"

"Ostensibly, yes," Bastila confesses with a sigh. "But I'm not a fool and am under no illusion that I can best the three of you in combat." She carefully tracks the trio of Force users surrounding her. "All I ask is that you hear me out. Allow me to explain the choices I've made and where my true loyalties lie."

Revan snarls as he presses his lightsaber a little closer to the Padawan's skin. "Why should I listen to a liar? Someone who tried to kill my…" There's a brief pause as he carefully considers his words. "My closest friend? Your loyalties have always been to yourself and Malak."

"While I may have pledged my 'saber to the Supreme Commander," Bastila spits, the title spoken like a curse. "My true goals are a bit more… complex."

"Sure they are." As he speaks, Revan's fury surges.

Drawing a deep breath, Bastila is surprised at the conviction in her own voice as she points out, "Consider this, Vann. There were dozens of times during our journey together when I could have destroyed your crew and then used their deaths to my advantage. It's a common tactic for hunting Jedi and Malak has little care if they live or die. Instead, I chose to assist all of you."

It's Jolee who hums thoughtfully at this confession. "I hate to say it, but the girl's got a point. I'm old, but I'm not senile. I can count a least five or six times when she could have killed us all without breaking a sweat." His expression quickly darkens. "Not that I'm congratulating her for that remarkable restraint…"

"But you did try to kill Carth." Revan raises his second lightsaber, a fierce sense of protectiveness and affection accompanying the gesture. "That wasn't your smartest choice."

"I understand your anger, Vann," Bastila hastily reassures the former Knight. "And I do apologize for what occurred on the Leviathan. Truly. But I beg you to listen for just a few moments longer."

"So far I'm not hearing anything that's changing my mind." Revan keeps both violet blades leveled at the Padawan. "You have sixty seconds. Fifty-nine. Fifty-eight…"

"Careful, Vann." Lips pursed, Jolee tightens his grip on his own lightsaber. "She's got a clever tongue and a devious little mind. And for once, those aren't assets in a face that pretty."

Talking over the eldest Force user, Bastila raises her voice to a low shout. "While Malak may be my master, my allegiance has always been to you, whether you call yourself Revan or Vann!" Desperation laces her tone as she admits, "Even before I realized you were alive I wanted to bring your vision for the Republic to life."

"You mean your master's vision?" Juhani asks with a hiss.

"No, I mean Revan's." Shifting her gaze to glare at the Cathar, Bastila continues, "I've long recognized that what Malak has made is a mere shadow of what Revan, of what Vann intended. But as the Jedi Council discovered, it's nearly impossible to stand up to a man with both the Star Forge and an armada at his disposal."

"Thirty-five. Thirty-four…"

Panic rising, Bastila presses on. She can feel the thin thread of Revan's patience as it rapidly frays beneath the weight of his anger. "Ever since I discovered you on Taris I've only wanted one thing for you, Vann. I wish for you to regain your memories and your connection to the Force." She pauses, a terse but genuine smile tugging at her lips. "I want you to be yourself once again."

Shoulders tensing at the implication, the former Knight jerks his head up definitely. "You mean that you want me to be Revan again."

"Perhaps," Bastila offers candidly. "But at its core, my goal has merely been to assist you in reclaiming your sense of self so that you can be complete rather than a shadow of a man haunted by his past and afraid of what the future might hold."

"Alright. Say I'm stupid enough to believe you. What if I do regain my memories but still decide to return to life as a mercenary along the Outer Rim?" The pair of lightsabers lowers slightly, though Revan's irritation still simmers. "What if I decide to let the Republic rot?"

Swallowing hard, Bastila makes no effort to hide her displeasure at the idea. "Then so be it. I'll admit that I would be disappointed, but history has proven that there's little anyone can do to change your course once you've made up your mind."

"Really?" Surprise surges through the Force bond, temporarily overshadowing all other emotions. "You'd just let me… let Revan walk away?"

"Yes, really." Her smile softening slightly, Bastila murmurs, "But somehow I don't think that you'll make that decision."

"And what makes you say that? What makes you think that you know me so well?" Frustration blooms around Revan, though it's not aimed at the Padawan. Rather, it feels directed at himself.

"Because a minute has passed and you're still listening to me." Bastila tilts her head to the side, sending a wave of comfort through the bond. "And because you've always been a good person."

Scoffing at the very thought, Revan rolls his eyes. "Really? What makes you think that?"

"Vann, perhaps it is not my place to say, but…" Clearing her throat, Juhani shifts uncomfortably, though her voice is strong and steadfast when she speaks. "You do not always give yourself enough credit. Revan and Vann Chis have helped many people throughout the galaxy."

"Quiet, you!" Jolee snaps, huffing irritably. "I mean, you're right, but you don't have to agree with the Malak's apprentice!"

Ignoring the bickering, Bastila turns her full attention to Revan. "Think about all of the suffering that you've witnessed throughout your travels. And then recall the fact that you've been unable to stand idly by and allow it to continue. On Taris…"

"I caused an orbital bombardment by attacking Davik Kang. Yes, I know," the former Knight mutters.

"No. Malak caused that bombardment because Taris, particularly its underworld and swoop gangs, were resistant to his rule. Kang was merely a convenient excuse," Bastila assures him, her expression softening. "You saved Canderous, Mission, and Zaalbar from certain death."

"I hate to say it, but you also did a pretty decent job on Kashyyyk." Wrinkling his nose, Jolee can't help but criticize, "Maybe not the way I would have handled things, but you got the job done."

Words gentle, Juhani adds, "And on Manaan you…"

Interrupting the Cathar, Revan winces as he pleads, "Can we never mention Manaan again?"

"Then perhaps we can discuss Korriban? I heard a rumor that you reunited a number of students with their families." Bastila arches a brow, knowing that her words are the truth. "And here on Rakata Prime, or as the Sith call it, Lehon, it seems that you've made peace between Rakata factions who were at war for generations."

Drawing back his 'saber blades, Revan shakes his head and growls. "Alright! So, I did a couple of good things! What's your point?"

"My point is that you've never been able to stand idly by while others suffer." Shifting closer to the former Knight, Bastila wonders, "Do you not remember why you pushed so hard for the Jedi Order to enter the war?"

"The Mandalorians…?" Revan asks rather noncommittally.

Nodding, Bastila quickly explains, "They were slaughtering innocent people. Cities were bombed into glass craters and fires were set that burn to this day. Whole populations were completely decimated upon their defeat."

Juhani's bares her teeth as she whispers, "Like my people."

Offering the other woman a sympathetic smile, Bastila agrees, "Yes, the Cathar. And so many, many more."

"And what did I do that was so wonderful?" As Revan speaks, confusion trickles through the bond, along with a lingering sense of guilt. "All of those people still suffered."

As she sends back a wave of reassurance, Bastila tells him, "You were the only Jedi to stand up to the Council. To state that the Order must enter the war if the Republic was to survive."

"And…?"

"And you won." With a light shrug, the Padawan recounts the details as simply as possible. "You found the proof that the Council demanded and a loophole that allowed the Revanchists to officially join the war effort as the Republic Mercy Corps."

Sorrow paints Juhani's features, though it soon fades to pride. "It was too late for my people, but the actions of the Revanchists still saved millions, perhaps billions of others."

"Yes, at the cost of how many planets? How many soldiers and civilians died in tactics that were just as brutal and utilitarian as the Mandalorians'?" Jolee sounds exasperated as he looks between the other Force users, "Kid, you may have saved the Republic, but you lost yourself in the process."

"Or perhaps he found himself," Bastila slyly counters.

"I know what I said!" Jerking the green blade of his weapon towards the Padawan, Jolee admonishes her, "Don't interrupt an old man holding a lightsaber when he's spouting some damn important wisdom!"

"I apologize, Jolee. But you did touch upon a point that I myself was going to bring up." Bowing her head in contrition, Bastila sighs thoughtfully. "Vann, as Revan, you did what was necessary to ensure there was a Republic left to save. While yes, the Jedi Council questioned the morality of some of your choices, you know firsthand that they are flawed individuals who stubbornly cling to their ancient ways even to their own detriment. After what they withheld from you during your recent retraining…"

A flicker of realization alights in Revan's eyes. "Wait, what are you trying to say? Did the Masters know who I was when you brought me to Dantooine?"

Biting back a grin as the former Knight picks up on her hint, Bastila huffs in disgust. "You spent a great deal of time on both Dantooine and Coruscant throughout your life, long before you adopted the name 'Revan.'" She levels her gaze at the man. "Of course they knew your true identity. They kept it from you in the hope that they could mold you into what they wanted."

"Those kriffing bastards!" Indignation streams from Revan, cold and fierce.

"Of course, the Council has never been able to contain you." Amusement colors Bastila's words. "But that's of little importance now."

"And what is important to you, Bastila? What is your point?" Juhani watches the other woman suspiciously as she adjusts her grip on her lightsaber. "The war is long over and the victor, your master, has become the new conqueror."

"That is exactly my point." Nodding approvingly at the Cathar, the Padawan turns to the man whom she truly wanted to train under. "Vann, you as Revan could have accomplished so much more had you not… I don't want to say 'died,' as you're standing before me right now. But, and I hate to admit this, I still feel as though you lost a part of yourself in that crash."

"You mean all of the memories that I'm still missing? Because if you know of a way that I can get those back…" The former Knight trails off, though it's hard to miss the hope that passes over his features.

"Unfortunately, no. I'm referring to the part of you who accepted the innate darkness that you possess. The part who knew that utilizing the dark side was necessary in order to accomplish great things." Bastila offers an apologetic smile. "Though, perhaps if you accept that part once again you will discover a way to unlock your missing memories."

"Oh, no-no-no." Waggling a finger in disapproval, Jolee warns, "That is not a path you want to walk down, kid. That way lies nothing but trouble, let-me-tell-you!"

"Hush old man! You must sense that she speaks the truth in her own way. Vann possesses a natural connection to the dark side, and denying it has caused more than a little… turmoil." Juhani's voice is low, though her concern is palpable within the Force.

Biting back a laugh, Bastila inclines her head to the side. "'Turmoil' is an interesting way to describe it, though I prefer to think of it as more of an… emotionally charged lightning storm waiting to happen."

"Are you saying that, when I was Revan, I didn't have these…" The former Knight winces guiltily. "These incidents?"

"Please don't misunderstand me. As Revan, you were very powerful, and you were not afraid to wield that power against your enemies." Pausing for effect, Bastila finally explains, "But you also had control, far more than you currently possess."

Scowling deeply, Jolee scoffs, "Kid, you know full well that you lack control because you don't want it!"

"What? Do you think that I like blacking out and slaughtering a dozen people?" Turning to glare at the eldest Force user, Revan snaps, "Because that's what happens! Things get hazy, and when I come to my senses there's a pile of dead bodies and a bunch of people looking at me like I'm a monster."

"You're not a monster, Vann. Not even close. But you are strong with the dark side, and I believe that connection has always resided within you." Thinking back, Bastila can still recall the cold aura of power and command that the man formerly exuded. "When I first met you during the war, I sensed it. As did many others, for that matter."

"So, I did fall…"

"That I can't say for certain. But the man, the Jedi I met had not fallen. He still had a great deal of compassion for the Republic and its people. And he had a vision for their future." The Padawan's expression flickers between nostalgia and regret. "It wasn't one of war and fascism, but rather of peace and prosperity."

"Vann, tell me honestly. When you first met me… did you believe that I was a monster?" Gesturing to herself, Juhani lowers her gaze. "I too have darkness in me. It is the reason that the Jedi stopped training me."

"No, Juhani!" Shaking his head, Revan quickly reassures the Cathar, "While you were, and still are, pretty scary with your 'saber, I never saw you as a monster. I only saw someone who needed help."

"Because that is who you are." Smiling despite the gravity of the situation, Bastila nods to the former Knight. "You have darkness within you, but you still want nothing more than to help those around you."

"You can help people without that darkness. Back in my day, we called that the light side." Waving the others away, Jolee grumbles, "But sure, don't listen to the old man..."

"What is it that you want me to do, Bastila? What do you want from me?" There's a new edge of desperation to Revan's tone, and it extends into the Force bond. "Why are you even here?"

"All I want is for you to stop fighting yourself so that you can focus that energy on something, anything else." Letting her honesty color her words, Bastila adds, "I would like it if you put that energy towards rebuilding the Republic, but if you'd prefer to disappear into the Outer Rim as another faceless mercenary, that's your choice.

Revan studies the Padawan for several long moments, carefully sending tendrils of awareness through the bond to test the truth in her statement. He still sounds disbelieving when he asks, "You… really do think that I can save the Republic, don't you?"

"Yes. I always have." Finally baring the truth that she had been holding in for so long, Bastila all-but blurts out, "When I sensed you on Taris, I still believed that you were the Republic's last great hope. And I was right! Look how much you've accomplished in a matter of months, with only a small crew to assist you. You can deny it all you want, but you will always be a person who can make the impossible a reality."

Hands tensing around his lightsaber hilts, Revan draws a slow breath. "Alright, let's say that I lose my mind and decide that, yes, I'd like to help fix this entire mess and right all of my past mistakes. Beyond killing Malak, how do you propose I do that? Me? An Outer Rim mercenary with amnesia and a tendency to electrocute anyone who pisses me off?"

Glaring accusingly between the former Knight and the Padawan, Jolee declares, "I'll say that you've lost your mind if you're still listening to this nonsense…"

Cheerfully cutting off the eldest Force user, Bastila begins, "Well, to start, I'd ask you to merely close your eyes."

"Huh?"

"Close your eyes, breath, and let go." Opening up her end of the Force bond, the Padawan sends through encouragement, warm and bright. "Accept everything within you, including the darkness."

There are several long seconds of hesitation before Revan asks, "…You want me to fall?"

"No. I merely want you to stop resisting an integral part of you." Exhaling, Bastila continues to let her emotions flow freely through the bond, showing her perspective Master know that she has no ulterior motives other than helping him to reach his former strength. "Accept your darkness and realize that without it you are not complete."

For a moment the Padawan can feel the other Force user beginning to loosen his grasp on whatever it is that separates his conscious mind from the dark power that resides within the deepest recesses of his being. But then he pauses, trepidation swirling around him as he clings to that divide.

The resistance reverberates through the Force as Revan whispers, "I don't know if I can..."

"Think of it this way. How can you expect to defeat Malak and bring peace to the Republic if you cannot find peace within yourself?" Shuddering at the thought of her current master, Bastila hurriedly pushes that thought aside. "Stop fighting and simply feel."

Closing his eyes, Revan breathes deeply and centers himself with more conviction than the Padawan ever felt during his halfhearted meditation attempts throughout their journey together. This is true introspection, and through the Force bond, she can feel him journeying deep within his very being, the walls containing all of those strong emotions slowly dissolving as he surges past the apprehensions and inhibitions that Jedi Council convinced him were necessary. An icy mist is gradually creeping into the Force around him, swallowing his being as it overtakes the brightly flickering static of his uncertainty with a conviction that chills everything it touches.

Alarm suddenly radiates through the Force as Juhani's eyes grow wide, her own awareness flaring around her. "Vann, I do not wish to frighten you, but please proceed with caution." Her earlier confidence fades as unease suddenly taints her words. "You once told me that there is a difference between doing dark things and being a dark… an evil person. What you are currently embracing is not merely darkness, but something far more sinister that will consume you as it has done to Malak!"

"Forget about caution," Jolee scolds. "Stop this now, before you do something that you regret!"

"Don't listen to them, Vann. You know this is right! You know that embracing your connection to the dark side is the only way you'll be strong enough to fight Malak." A flicker of uncertainty travels through the Force bond and Bastila acknowledges it, sending back encouragement. "It's the only way you'll be able to protect those you care about, including these two!"

"Jolee, you said it yourself. It's not about getting stronger. It's about using every tool at my disposal." Revan's eyes are still closed, but his voice has grown steadier and more self-assured. "And the dark side is a tool that I've been rejecting… why? Because the Jedi told me to?"

The coldness within the former Knight is growing and spreading, and the bond lets Bastila experience the moment when the last of his hesitation dissipates as the conflict that was raging within him is consumed by a frigid shadow. No longer does it feel like a violent storm as his conscious mind fights a losing battle with his subconscious fount of strength. Instead there is nothing but perfect blankness, a flat and gelid landscape of raw potential that is almost serene in its utter lack of anything but darkness and unbridled power.

Juhani's worry has morphed into pure fear as she calls, "Vann… I accept that most have darkness within them, including you. But what you are doing is not acceptance, it is surrender!" Her voice rises an octave as she glances desperately between her fellow Force users. "You are standing at the edge of a decision that you may not be able to turn back from. Please, stop now while you still can!"

Disappointment hangs heavy around Jolee as he wonders, "Kid, what are you doing?"

"What I did during the war. What I should have done back on Tatooine!" Revan's Force signature has lost the bright sparks of the confused mercenary, though this complete void of emotion is still vastly different from the man Bastila looked up to for so many years. Yet, he manages to sound like the assertive Knight he once was as he declares, "I'm accepting who and what I am so that I can actually stand a chance at fixing my mistakes."

"And you don't think this is a mistake?" Jolee stares in horror, his brow furrowing in consternation.

"Vann, please. I will tell you the same thing that you told me back in that kinrath cave." Slashing her lightsaber through the air to punctuate her shout, Juhani snarls, "You should be smart enough to recognize the truth of this situation!"

"I do see the truth." Contrasting his companions Revan has grown oddly calm, almost tranquil. His mind is a steadying presence within the Force bond, composed and thoughtful rather than driven by the anger and frustration that formerly lurked just beneath the surface, ready to erupt at any moment. Each breath that he draws is even and measured, though also oddly detached. "To beat Malak, to save the Republic and everyone in it, I need to be me. And that person is dark. Maybe that person fell, and maybe that fall was necessary."

A hollow sense of truth echoes through the Force bond, though that too is quickly engulfed by the dispassionate sense of stoicism that is beginning to signify the man's existence within the Force. Already the vibrancy and unpredictability of his strong emotions are becoming nothing more than a familiar memory, leaving behind something that resembles the calm serenity of a Jedi combined with the cold fury of a Sith. Yet, the sensation is far more frightening in its sheer capacity for the impersonal acceptance of anything and everything.

In a weak, almost resigned tone Jolee begs, "Please don't do this, kid…"

The other pair of Force users seem distant and indistinct compared to the utter power of Revan, and Bastila can't help but bask in his presence. He is still different from her memories of the armor-clad Knight and Republic general, but his connection to the Force is the same unyielding might that it has always been. All of her admiration for the man blooms anew as she tells him, "No matter how this day ends, I'm here for you. You're not alone, and you never have to be alone again."

As the former Knight blinks back to the present and the scene before him, Jolee balks and takes a step back. "Kid, your eyes…"

Revan scowls at the older man, his irises completing their shift from deep brown to a bright shade of golden-yellow. "What color were my eyes behind my mask? What color were they when I saved the kriffing Republic?"

Hesitantly, Bastila asks, "What do you feel? That's far more important than what you look like."

The Force shimmers as Revan reflects inward, a new sense of understanding streaming through the bond. "I feel… calmer. Colder? I'm not sure how to describe it."

"The passion of the dark side is not what should be feared," Juhani murmurs as she recoils knowingly, bringing her lightsaber up to guard her body. "It is cold detachment that is dangerous as it can cause those in its thrall to commit unspeakable horrors."

"Lucky for you I'm not completely detached. What I feel is more like… power, but also control." Revan swallows hard as he admits, "It's a clarity that I haven't felt in a long time."

"And what, exactly, do you plan on doing with all of this clarity?" Jolee demands, using his lightsaber to point questioningly at the younger man.

There's a long pause, and then Revan states, "What I should have done over three years ago."

Respect colors Juhani's voice. "Of course, you wish to kill Malak."

"Yes. But I also I want to fix everything that he broke." Determination settles over Revan's features. "There's a Republic that needs to be saved. And I'm going to save it, even if I have to forcibly seize control of the entire kriffing government to make it happen."

Jolee sounds cautious as he asks, "And what makes you say that?"

"Because I'm Revan and it's my responsibility."

Sighing heavily, the eldest Force user's tone grows heavy. "That's the answer I was afraid of…"

"Vann, I respect what you wish to do, and I am forever grateful that you have already done for me personally. But, do you truly believe that taking control of the entire Republic will improve upon what Malak has created? Juhani grimaces as she acknowledges, "After all, he too started with the best of intentions."

Her own patience finally snapping, Bastila glares at the other Force users. "Do you both have so little faith in the man who saved the Republic? In the only Jedi who stood up to the Council? In the individual who ended the war when he bested Mandalore the Ultimate in single combat?"

"Don't take this personally, kids," Jolee chuckles mirthlessly. "But no one man can fix this mess."

"Which is why I was hoping that you, my friends, would stand with me." His eyes narrowing, Revan carefully asses his companions. Suspicion curls around him as his awareness flows forth. "But right now, it looks like you only want to criticize me when I'm finally ready to actually make a difference."

"You were making a pretty big difference before you started listening to the Sith apprentice and spouting nonsense about taking over the government," Jolee responds, jerking an accusatory finger at Bastila.

"I prefer the term Dark Jedi, but I suppose that Sith will also do," the Padawan quips with a half-shrug.

"Vann, can you be sure that this is you speaking? You have never before expressed an interest in seizing control of the Republic," Juhani insists, her head shaking repeatedly. "This temple, this planet has strange ties to the dark side…"

"What was that, Juhani?" Revan counters sharply, focusing the full weight of his formidable Force presence on the Cathar. "Tell me more about the seductive powers of the dark side while you hold that red-bladed 'saber of yours."

"I…"

The former Knight merely smirks. "That's what I thought."

"I'm going to have to agree with the Cathar. This darkness in this place is corrupting." Using his free hand to gesture to the Temple of the Ancients, Jolee nods towards the nearest doorway. "All of us should get out of here so that we can sit down and think rather than doing something stupid… like trying to take control of the Republic as its new dictator! Which, I repeat, is a damn stupid idea!"

"I'm thinking just fine, but thanks for the concern." Twirling both of his lightsabers to emphasize his threat, Revan orders, "Now either help me or move out of my way. I need to get the disruptor field down so that the Hawk can leave this planet and head for the Star Forge."

"So, now you're giving us ultimatums? No, that's not going to happen." Tutting his disapproval, Jolee swings his own 'saber forward. "We're all going back to the Hawk alright, but only so that you can clear that thick head of yours."

Bastila chuckles as she senses the faint trail of fear coming off of the eldest Human. "I believe that Vann has made up his mind."

"Move, Jolee." The former Knight's tone does soften as he says, "I don't want to hurt you."

"Vann!" Juhani cries, "This is not you…"

"This is me," Revan responds, cutting off the Cathar with a sharp glare. "This is the same person who rescued you from Taris as a child. Now move."

"…No. Jolee is right." Raising her head defiantly, Juhani squares her shoulder. "You are not thinking clearly. Bastila has used the power of this temple to cloud your mind."

"I haven't done anything," the Padawan counters haughtily, keeping the bond fully open so that Revan knows that she's not leading him astray. "I merely gave him the tools to think clearly and be in control of his own life for the first time in years. Something that none of you had the courage or foresight to do."

"Please Vann," Curling her lip back in disgust, Juhani growls as she points the tip of her lightsaber at the other woman. "You cannot choose this traitor over us…"

"Now who's giving ultimatums?" Still startlingly calm given the situation, Revan takes a single step forward, as though daring his companions to challenge him. "All things considered, I think I'm been pretty damn patient. But now it looks like my friends are threatening me."

"Are they your friends?" Bastila wonders, gripping the hilt of her lightsaber just a little harder, her thumb hovering over the button that will ignite the twin blades. "I would think that your true friends would understand that you are Revan, with all of his darkness and all of his might."

"I thought so too. I guess… I was wrong." Hurt flickers over Revan's features, though it's quickly replaced by stoic resolve. "Last chance. Stand aside or I'm going through you."

"You can certainly try, kid." Jolee's feet move with surprising grace as he shifts into the traditional Jedi-ready position. "I may be old, but I still have some tricks up my sleeve."

"I do not wish to hurt you." Juhani's stance is more aggressive, her muscles tensed and ready to launch her skyward. "But I will do what is necessary to get you to safety so that we can fix whatever Bastila has done to you!"

"Sorry, but you can't fix what isn't broken." Anticipation surges through the bond as Revan glances at the Padawan out of the corner of his eye. "Bastila?"

Igniting her own weapon, the woman sizes up her opponents. "My blade is yours to command, Master."

"Good." Approval flows from Revan, surprisingly warm despite his current aloofness. Offering his former companions a slight bow, he sounds genuinely apologetic when he says, "I am sorry it has to end this way."

"Me too, kid." Jolee's voice is heavy with emotion, his sorrow nearly engulfing his Force presence. "Me too."

Juhani executes a graceful flip before Bastila can even blink, catching the Padawan by surprise. Luckily, Revan is even faster and he sends out a strong Force push that catches the Cathar in mid-air, knocking her to the ground before she can attack. The next moment the former Knight is repositioning the blade in his off-hand, wielding it in a defensive reverse-grip as he meets Jolee head-on with enough strength to send the older man stumbling back. For an instant, Bastila is overwhelmed by the rush of movement and the wave of unrestrained emotions flowing through the Force, but she hurriedly composes herself when she sees Juhani leaping to her feet. Swinging her blades into an offensive position, the Padawan smoothly blocks the Cathar's next strikes.

It soon becomes obvious that Revan doesn't need Bastila's help as he proceeds to show both of his former allies why he was, and perhaps still is, one of the best lightsaber duelists of his time. His movements are fast and aggressive, but no action is ever wasted. Each strike and slice that he makes is used to either block a blow or deliver one of his own, every motion carefully choreographed to drive the pair of Force users towards the choke-point that is the entrance to the temple. For her part, Bastila finds herself controlling the rhythm of the battle by distracting the pair, delivering stabs and feints to draw attention and drive both opponents towards her master.

After blocking two overhand chops from Juhani and parrying a slice at her abdomen from Jolee, the Padawan realizes something. While both of her adversaries clearly want her dead, neither is intent on hurting Revan. In the rare instance that either has an opening, they ignore it or resort to diversion tactics rather than true attacks. It's a show of weakness that she immediately uses to her advantage. Scoffing as Juhani makes another bluff strike at the former Knight, she spots an opening in the Cather's guard. Her lightsaber sizzles viciously as she uses her left blade to knock the other woman's weapon back and then swings her right blade around to slash at a now-unprotected shoulder. The hit strikes true, burning through flesh and producing a yowl of agony.

Sending a thrum of triumph through the bond, the Padawan aims a second, more devastating blow at her opponent's midsection. However, before she can follow through with her swing Revan shouts, "Alright, I've had enough of this bantha shit!"

A wave of raw power flows through the Force, plowing into Juhani and Jolee, instantly knocking them to the ground. Before the two Force users can climb to their feet, a second surge of pure energy wraps around both of them, constricting their throats and cutting off their windpipes. Tightening his fist, Revan stares coldly at the pair. "You were my friends," he says, his voice dangerously quiet. "I trusted you! I thought you would help me, not turn against me." Both of his victims wrestle against the choking grasp, their fingers desperately raking nothing but air. "But I guess I was wrong. I am sorry, you know. It shouldn't have ended like this."

As the Force pulses with a final surge of Revan's might, Jolee's eyes narrowing defiantly just before his eyelids flutter shut. Juhani doesn't put up as much of a fight, having ceased anything more than a token struggle the moment she realized what the former Knight was doing. Silence descends upon the roof as the pair lose their battle with consciousness, collapsing lifelessly upon the stone ground.

Reaching out her awareness, Bastila unintentionally gasps in surprise when she feels the barest flickers of Force signatures coming from their defeated foes. It's little more than a whisper, but it's there. "They're not dead," she mutters, turning to arch a questioning brow at Revan.

"No, they're probably more useful to me alive." The former Knight's jaw clenches. "I want to give them a chance to come around. They can't beat me, and now they know it. If I show them mercy, maybe they'll realize that I haven't completely fallen. Maybe then they'll understand."

Bastila frowns, though she considers this tactic. "You always did prefer winning others over to your side. Still…" Her frown deepens. "There's a good chance that they'll try to prevent you from reaching the Star Forge."

"Which is why we're going to lock them in this temple. They can sit, cool their heads, and think about what's happened." Revan looks down at his former allies, a hint of affection briefly gracing his countenance. "I can come back for them later, or send someone else to do it."

"But these doors don't lock. Or, at least, not from the hallways." Straining to recall the exact layout of the temple, Bastila offers an apologetic smile. "The few locks that exist are on the inside of the various rooms. So, they won't do you much good."

"That's alright, I have an idea." Smirking secretively, Revan taps an item clipped to his utility belt. Like the rest of his clothing, the accessory is rugged and worn, more appropriate for a spacer than a Jedi. "Just help me carry them inside."

A strong swell of energy envelops the two unconscious Force users, lifting them up and slowly moving them towards the entrance. Upon realizing her master's plan, Bastila quickly adds her own Force strength so that the pair are swiftly carried off of the sun-baked roof and into the temple interior. The building is dark and humid beyond the courtyard, the hallways littered with sparking bits of broken droids. The Padawan almost trips over a few of the larger pieces as her eyes adjust to the gloom, and she lets out a soft string of curses.

"Careful," Revan warns belatedly. "We left a bit of a mess."

"I've noticed." Squinting down the shadowy corridor, Bastila gestures to the left. "There's a small room over in that corner. It originally contained a few Rakata artifacts, but it's since been cleared out."

Nodding in comprehension, Revan moves his hands to carefully float the unconscious individuals down the hall. "So, there's nothing these two can use to escape?"

"Precisely."

"Sounds perfect." Pausing, the former Knight allows Bastila to walk ahead of him. "Lead the way."

With the two of them working together, it only takes a few minutes to move Jolee and Juhani's prone forms into the barren little room. The corridor it's attached to is towards the center of the temple, rendering the space completely windowless and limiting it to a single door acting as both entrance and exit. Even a clever Force user will have difficulty finding an exploitable weak spot to break free, provided that Revan has some way to seal the door from the outside.

The former Knight is surprisingly gentle as he guides his former allies onto the hard floor, taking a moment to consider them before looking over at Bastila and nodding in satisfaction. "This should hold them." Without another word he strides out of the room, unhooking two items from his belt as he walks. Bastila is close on his heels, slipping through the doorway with hardly a sound. Without prompting she presses the archaic control panel embedded in the hallway and watches as the door slides closed with the soft groan of metal grinding against stone. Once the room is sealed, her new master wastes no time in setting the items from his belt onto the floor, directly against the threshold.

"Are those… mines?" the Padawan wonders aloud.

With a shrug, Revan pulls two more identical items from his belt and proceeds to set them as well. They blink and beep almost cheerfully, a sharp contrast to the destruction they can cause. "Yes. They're triggered by movement and should go off if the door opens."

"Isn't that a hazardous choice if you'd like to keep those two alive?"

Brushing off his knees as he climbs to his feet, Revan frowns. "They're both Force users, so their awareness should let them know that opening this is dangerous." He raps on the door with one knuckle. "And, if they're smart, they'll stay put for the time being."

"And what if the Force fails them? Or if they should decide to be foolhardy and take a risk?" A thin stream of worry creeps its way through Bastila's mind. While Jolee could often be annoying in his sagacity and Juhani was a bit stubborn once she became attached to an idea, the thought of either of them dying from something as impersonal as a mine is somehow troubling.

"Well, then they won't be interfering with me getting to the Star Forge and overthrowing Malak, now will they?" An expression of grim determination crosses Revan's features. "Come on, let's get out of here. I have a lot to do."

"Of course, Master." Bowing her head, Bastila hurries after the man as he stalks towards the courtyard entrance with confident strides. It takes effort not to glance back at the mines that are still twinkling in the gloom. "We can take my ship to the Forge. It's parked on the roof and can comfortably fit two. It will also be a bit less conspicuous than then Ebon Hawk."

"I'm not going straight to the Star Forge," Revan replies, shading his eyes as he walks back into the sunlight. Pausing, he reaches down and retrieves Jolee and Juhani's fallen lightsabers, tucking them inside of his jacket. "I need to head to the Hawk and get some supplies. Grenades, medpacs, maybe H-Kay," he explains as he heads to the ancient terminal that controls the temple's electronic functions.

"Are you sure that's wise? After all, your crew may have some questions about what's occurred." Bastila presses her lips into a thin line, glancing down at herself as her fingers straighten the edge of her robe, the crimson-and-black design partially inspired by Revan's own battle armor. "They may also object to your plan to usurp Malak's control of the Republic and claim it as your own."

Chuckling to himself, the former Knight taps some commands into the console. "Oh, I'm sure there will be some objections."

"While I would like to accompany you, if you fear my presence will only complicate matters I can stay here…" Grinning half-heartedly, Bastila concedes, "Or you could always lie. You're rather talented at that, after all."

The console beeps, and a moment later the entire sky seems to shimmer as though a million tiny sparks have all erupted at once. Revan nods in satisfaction. "No, I'm done lying. At least about this." He turns to the Padawan, his yellow eyes staring at her intently. "You said it yourself, if they're really my friends they'll understand that I am Revan. And that I'm the only one who can finish what I started during the war."

"Even if they don't understand, I do." Bastila smiles at this, the gesture soft but genuine. "I'll be with you till the end, Master."

"Good. That's what I like to hear." Nodding to the sleek silver craft partially hidden by the walls of the roof, Revan says, "We can take your ship in-atmosphere to the Hawk and then load it with any additional supplies before heading to the Forge. Like you said, using a ship that Malak recognizes should give us the element of surprise."

"That's a sound plan." Arching a curious brow, Bastila can't help but wonder, "Though, if we're taking my ship, why disable the disruptor field? All of Malak's vehicles are equipped with Star Forge technology which allows them to pass through the field at will."

Scoffing playfully at the question, Revan responds, "It's practically a crime to keep a ship as nice as the Ebon Hawk rusting away on that beach any longer than necessary." His expression grows more serious as he adds, "Besides, if I need back-up it's good to know that anyone who's still on my side can get off this planet and help me."

"Ah. A valid point I suppose." Sprinting on ahead, Bastila calls, "I'll start the engine."

The moment she enters the tiny cockpit, the Padawan slides into her seat and begins the launch sequence. Revan boards a few moments later, and soon the pair is lifting off from the roof. As they hover in the air but before they can soar into the clear blue sky there's an audible bang within the temple, the sound loud enough to rumble the entire the exterior. A few clouds of dust shake loose from the ancient stonework and the foundation of the towering building seems to shudder for just an instant. Bastila jumps at the commotion, even as her master merely grows somber.

"Well," he breathes out, his teeth clenching tightly. "I guess that's two less individuals we have to worry about convincing."

Gripping the controls until her knuckles turn white, Bastila swallows a whimper of sympathy. "I'm… sorry this ended so poorly."

"Don't be." Revan shakes his head as he stares at the transparisteel viewport, his expression void of any emotion aside from a subtle tensing at his jawline. "They made their choice. Just like I made mine."

"Still…" Reaching through the bond, Bastila tries to send forth a swell of comfort. Unfortunately, her master's side of their connection is almost completely closed. She's able to sense a few stray emotions, though they surprise her. There's no mourning or sadness within his mind, merely a cold sense of determination. She briefly recalls Juhani's warning. 'It is that cold detachment that is dangerous. It causes those in its thrall to commit unspeakable horrors.' Could the Cathar have been correct?

Blinking hard, Bastila pushes aside that thought. She can't allow doubt to unsettle her, not now. Not when she finally has everything that she's wanted for so many years. Glancing over at Revan she manages a smile, reminding herself that it's a miracle of the Force for this man to be sitting here allied with her, ready to topple Malak and take back control of the Republic.

There must be a chill running through the cockpit that causes Bastila to shiver. At least, that's what she tells herself even as she averts her gaze from Revan's coldly impassive visage.


(Interlude – Bastila)

There's a loud commotion on the beach as Revan marches towards the Ebon Hawk, his back straight and his gaze focused as he navigates the shifting sands with practiced ease. After drawing several calming breathes the Padawan slowly begins to trail her master with noticeably less grace, her lingering guilt causing her steps to slow and falter as she braces herself for the confrontation to come. After all, she betrayed these people. It was out of necessity, but that doesn't change the essence of what she did or the trust that she's broken.

No, Bastila scolds herself. I can't think like that. One in my position should never apologize for betrayal. Gluing her eyes to Revan's back, she takes comfort in the sheer confidence that the man exudes. He clearly feels no remorse, so neither should she.

"V-Man, you're back!" Mission shouts, hurrying across the low dunes with Zaalbar close behind. The young Twi'lek is a bright spot of joy and energy within the Force. "Geeze, that took forever."

"Welcome back. I'd ask if the disruptor field is down, but your astromech droid has been beeping like crazy for the last several minutes." Canderous jerks a thumb towards the freighter as he follows the large divots left behind by the Wookiee. "Supposedly it's because the ship's sensors are finally working properly. Or, so your boyfriend claims."

Boyfriend? Bastila arches a brow at the term but says nothing.

"Yep," Revan confirms with a curt nod. "The field's down."

A moment later Carth comes jogging down the landing ramp, breaking into a wide grin when he spots the other man. Much of the bitterness and desire for vengeance have left his presence, replaced by affection and lightness that only glow brighter the closer he gets to the former Knight. "Great. Fantastic! So, what's the plan from here? I assume that we're heading to the Star F…" The smile immediately fades as suspicion chills the Force around him. "Vann, why is Bastila here?"

Glancing over his shoulder at the Padawan who's just coming into view from behind the rusted skeleton of a shuttlecraft, Revan calmly states, "Because there's been a change in plans."

"You little kriffing kath hound!" Canderous roars the second he spots the woman, the unrestrained strength of his rage causing her to recoil slightly as he reaches for one of the many knives concealed on his person. "They told me what happened back on the Leviathan and if you think that I…"

As the Mandalorian yells, the rest of the crew immediately go on the defensive, drawing their various weapons and aiming them at their former ally. All of their levity seems to vanish, the Force becoming thick with the creeping coldness of their combined fear and anger. Zaalbar quickly moves to shield Mission despite the fact that the Twi'lek is expertly wielding a heavily modified blaster pistol.

Holding out one hand, Revan stares at his crew as he orders, "Everyone stand down so that I can explain what's going on!" His voice isn't as booming as the Mandalorian's, yet it carries further, aided by the natural air of command that he exudes. It takes a moment but almost everyone lowers their weapon a fraction, many of them clearly torn between distrust and curiosity.

Surprisingly, it's Carth who keeps his pistols raised. "Are you going to explain why your eyes yellow again? I know they were brown this morning. Now tell me what's going on or…"

"What color were the Revanchist's eyes, Carth?" the former Knight interrupts, his tone scathing as his irritation rises around him like frozen flames. "It's funny how almost nobody seems to know the answer to that question, isn't it?"

"Can you maybe have this lover's quarrel some other time?" Canderous asks, sounding more bored than concerned. He even chuckles briefly before changing the subject. "Anyway, the plans have changed? I can't say I want to work with the turncoat, but if she has inside information that makes it easier to reach Malak, I'm all for it."

Flinching at the well-deserved insult, Bastila clears her throat awkwardly. "I do have a bit of access to places within the Star Forge that may allow us to approach Malak without attracting as much attention. But that's not the main reason I'm here."

"Oh, so it's 'Malak' now and not 'master'?" Carefully training one blaster on the Padawan and one on Revan, the pilot sneers, "It's nice to see that you're as loyal as ever. Now Vann, tell me what's going on!"

"Carth, I'd appreciate it if you didn't insult my apprentice." The former Knight's tone is clipped in annoyance.

"Your what?!" The trepidation and frustration simmering in Carth finally boil over, sending out a chilled tidal wave of emotion.

"Bastila and I had a talk in the temple. We worked out a few things. It was… how did Dustil put it?" Revan's brow furrows thoughtfully. "Cathartic."

Visibly tensing, Carth's voice is dangerously low as he warns, "Leave my son out of this."

"Okay, fine. That was an overstep." Holding both hands up placatingly, Revan bows his head in contrition. "But that doesn't change the fact that Bastila showed me how to fix the mess that I caused when I disappeared. Actually, the answer is surprisingly simple. See, right now the problem is Vann Chis. He's just a mercenary who can't fix anything. But Revan? He's a hero, respected by the Jedi, the Republic, and the Mandalorians. Revan is the answer I've been looking for."

There's a general murmur of surprise that ripples through the Force as the crew absorbs this statement from their leader, though no one looks more shocked than Carth. He takes a step back, muttering, "I don't like where this is going…"

Canderous, however, is grinning widely as he proclaims, "Hey, speak for yourself flyboy."

"The good news is that I am Revan," the former Knight declares, using one hand to point to his chest. As he takes a few steps forward his expression grows harder and colder. "Or, at least I will be soon enough. All I have to do is embrace everything that made me so successful during the war, like rejecting weakness and indecisiveness. This isn't about compassion or protecting a few individuals, it's about the greatest good for the greatest many across the entire Republic. And to achieve that goal, I need all of the tools at my disposal… including the dark side. I need to be at my best to save the Republic and to give it the future that it deserves. And my best is dark."

"Vann, I'm sorry but you…" Carth is shaking his head in disbelief, his eyes glued to the man he so obviously cares about even as horror creeps into his voice and surrounds his body. "You're scaring me. Stop it. This isn't funny."

Revan merely blinks. "Do I look like I'm joking?"

Looking around at the debris-covered beach, the pilot seems to be counting something silently to himself. As realization dawns across his features, his alarm only grows. "Where are Jolee and Juhani?"

"They're back in the Temple of the Ancients," Revan explains almost airily. "Or at least, what's left of them is." While his words are vague, the pride that tinges his voice affirms the implication that he is responsible for all of the harm that befell the other Force users.

The silence is almost palpable as the crew processes what's just been said, a mixture of shock and unrestrained fury painting many of their faces. The thick cloud of emotion that settled uneasily around them suddenly flares back to life, jagged shards of frigid anger shivering within the Force. There's hurt there as well, less violent but just as bitter and bleak. It's Carth whose reaction is the most telling as his arms drop to his sides and he gapes at the former Knight, his voice barely a whisper as he mumbles, "…What did you do?"

"You absolute scum!" Mission screams as she raises her pistol again, this time aiming it at her leader. Unadulterated rage surges forth in a torrent that engulfs her as her finger hovers over the trigger. "If you hurt Juhani or Jolee I'll, I'll…"

With a flick of his wrist, Revan yanks the blaster from the teenager's grasp, calling it into his own palm. Flipping on the safety he tucks it into his waistband before hissing, "Mission, stand down. You do not want to fight me, especially right now."

Tears well up in the Twi'lek's eyes and she clenches her teeth to hold back her sobs as she demands, "Why are you doing this, V-Man? I thought you left all of the Revan stuff behind…"

Refusing to dignify the question with a response, Revan instead turns to the Wookiee. "Zaalbar, you swore a life debt to me." Upon receiving a small, cautious nod of agreement he continues, "You know I don't usually do this, but I'm going to give you an order and I expect you to follow it. Take Mission into the crew quarters and stay there with her. Make sure she doesn't come out until I give permission. Understand?"

Bastila can't comprehend the growled response, but she can feel the confusion and disappointment crashing around the speaker. Whatever is said makes her master breathe deeply to carefully gather his rapidly-fraying patience before responding. The bond is still mostly closed on his end, but she can feel wisps of his mounting frustration seeping through. As much as she wants to send back encouragement and comfort, the situation is also straining what little calm she has remaining.

"Why?" Revan must be repeating the question he was asked if his sarcasm is any indication. "Because if she gets in my way, I'm going to have to handle her the same way I handled Jolee and Juhani, and I'd prefer not to do that. So please, do both of us a favor and keep her contained. We can discuss all of this later when she calms down."

After a few more seconds of roaring the Wookiee turns to his friend with obvious reluctance, his fear a twisted ball of ice as he begins to gently push the Twi'lek towards the Hawk's landing ramp. At first, she resists, twisting away from the larger figure with a furious jerk of her arm.

"Come on Big Z, don't do this! Just 'cause you pledged a life debt doesn't mean V-Man gets to act like a total asshole to both of us!" As she's given another, slightly more forceful shove towards the freighter, Mission's tone grows more desperate. "Please? Are you really going to do this big guy? Hey, watch it!"

After another few brusque pushes, the teenager is unceremoniously ushered back into the ship amid numerous complaints. However, her voice quickly fades away as her slender form disappears within the metal hull.

Still watching the scene in horrified disbelief, Carth's jaw tenses as he yells, "You're threatening children now?"

"Last I checked, children don't point blasters at people," Revan smirks as he pats the spot where the pistol is safely stowed before he rolls his eyes. "And if it makes you feel any better, all I did was send 'the child' to her room."

"It doesn't." His voice flat with simmering rage, Carth snaps back, "If anything, it terrifies me that you think imprisoning a teenage girl is… what? Some sort of good parenting technique?"

"Look, I did what needed to be done." Letting both hands rest atop the hilts of his lightsabers, Revan gently taps the deadly weapons as he wonders, "Would you have preferred the other option?" His presence is still disarmingly calm despite the growing tension of the situation.

"No!" For an instant, Carth is at a loss for words as he tries to comprehend the threat that was just made. When he finally finds his voice, it's thin with desperation. "And let's be honest here, you're not doing what needs to be done. You're back to doing whatever the hells you want thanks to your unrivaled ability to be a complete and utter piece of bantha shit when you get some sort of crazy idea stuck in your head! And this, whatever it is, clearly takes the prize for crazy ideas."

"Calm down, it's fine." Watching the pilot as though he's nothing more than a petulant child throwing a tantrum, Revan assures the man, "This isn't another suicidal, nerf-brained plan. If anything, I'm actually thinking tactically for the first time in years."

"Vann, this is anything but fine!" Carth looks around at the remaining crewmembers, noting the contemplative expression on Canderous's face with a grimace. "This entire situation is once again the complete opposite of 'fine'!"

"Carth, I care about you a lot. More than anyone else on this ship. Maybe more than anyone else in this entire kriffing galaxy." Revan walks slowly towards the other man, careful to keep his hands aloft and his posture non-threatening. His tone is affectionate, even caring, a sharp contrast to the blankness of his presence within the Force. "So, I'm going to say this as simply and clearly as possible. Right now, you are pissing me the hells off."

"Why? Because I'm not a teenage girl you can push around?" The pilot takes another step back, raising both pistols defensively. "Are you going to kill me for disagreeing with you? Is that what happened to Jolee and Juhani?"

"Yes. In fact, these are their lightsabers that I took after my apprentice and I beat both of them in a duel." Opening his jacket, Revan reveals the two 'saber hilts that he collected from the ground after the short-lived battle. "If you don't believe me, you can go check for yourself. All of the proof you need is right on the top floor of the temple. I took down the shield while I was disabling the disruptor field so you can walk right in."

Bastila can't quite hold back her gasp of surprise at this admission, though she has to admit that she wasn't watching her master closely when he was using the Rakata terminal on the roof of the building. In truth, she wasn't aware that the shield could be taken down manually, mostly because she never needed the natives' assistance thanks to Malak's wealth of Star Forge technology. A little goes a long way when it comes to bypassing the various electrical barriers on Lehon.

"I can't believe you're doing this…" Carth is murmuring, his gaze wide as his weapons falter. "Remember when you asked if you were a monster? I should have said yes."

"I think we'd be better discussing this when we're both a little calmer. After all, I wouldn't want either of us to do something that we regret." Two long strides bring Revan directly in front of his apparent lover, and he gives the other man a terse smile that's immediately rebuked with a snort. That doesn't deter him, and he carefully reaches out to brush a few locks of hair away from the pilot's eyes, his fingers trailing tenderly as he softly remarks, "But for right now, get out of my sight and go to the Temple of the Ancients to find what's left of Jolee and Juhani if you want proof of what happened." He punctuates this order with a slight shove through the Force, his power rippling out around him.

Almost too stunned to move, Carth stumbles to the side as he viciously sneers, "I'm going to get out of your sight…"

Delivering a second push that nearly sends the pilot to his knees, Revan drowns out the rest of the man's words as he shouts, "Good, go! Get the hells out of here!"

Blinking rapidly, Carth shakes his head one last time as he takes off running down the beach, not bothering to look back. The former Knight stands and watches him go, attention glued to his form until he's nothing more than a dark blur on the horizon, the oranges and browns of his clothing nearly camouflaging with the surrounding sand. Even through the closed bond, Bastila can feel the heavy sorrow weighing on her master's mind, and she can't help but take comfort in the sensation. He's not completely blank inside after all. While the Jedi would frown at such attachment, Revan's affection for his lover assures her that he's still capable of feeling something other than the frigid indifference that he's been demonstrating since he accepted her assistance.

"Well, I'm no relationship expert, but that could have gone better," Canderous finally declares once the pilot is completely out of sight. Eyeing the former Knight, he chuckles as he adds, "Granted, having seen you in battle it also could have gone a lot worse."

"Uh-huh," Revan grunts noncommittally.

Undeterred, Canderous nods in hearty approval. "I never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad you're back to the man you were during the war. The mission that we're about to undertake won't be easy, and it's good to know that you won't go soft on anyone once we're in the thick of things."

Sighing heavily, Revan turns to the Mandalorian. "Like I said, Bastila helped me to realize a few things."

"Please Master, you give me too much credit." The Padawan can feel a faint blush creeping over her cheeks as she waves her hand dismissively. Even so, the bond opens enough for a fresh stream of approval to flow through it. "I merely accepted you for what you are, something that the others have refused to do."

"Hey, I've always been supportive of Vann no matter what name he goes by. It's the rest of the idiots who keep getting mad when he saves their asses with lightning." Sneering at the notion, Canderous squares his shoulders. "Anyway, what's this plan of yours?"

"I'm still going to take Malak down, but once he's gone, I'm taking charge of the Republic. Knowing that they suffered defeat after defeat at the hands of the Mandalorians…" Revan trails off, quickly adding, "No offense Canderous."

"None taken." The Mandalorian grins, his chest puffing out with pride that shines around him. "Coming from you it's a compliment."

"My point is that Republic almost fell from a threat that they should have seen coming. It's not ready for whatever new dangers that lie ahead." Revan's next words are surprisingly quiet yet utterly determined, even as his emotions fade back out to the cool and misty wall of grayness. "But I am. And I'm going to make sure that the Republic is prepared, even if I have to seize control of the government with my own hands."

"While I'm all for your return, I'm not sure how the rest of my people will feel about this," Canderous admits almost sheepishly, one large palm rubbing at the back of his neck.

"I've seen and done a lot since the war. I've worked with more than one Mandalorian mercenary, and I realize that I made some mistakes." Meeting the taller man's gaze, Revan tells him, "If I control the Republic I can lift the sanctions imposed on your people at the end of the war, provided that you don't use the opportunity to take up arms against us again."

Nodding in approval, Canderous sounds as utterly grateful as he feels when he states, "That would go a long way in earning my people's support."

"Good." Revan lets out a soft sigh of relief. "So, I assume this means you're still with me?"

"Revan, I've always been with you." Adopting a more formal tone, Canderous informs them, "One of the six tenants of my people is to rally to the cause of the Mand'alor when summoned. Since you defeated us there has been no Mand'alor, so in their place, I rally behind you." Bowing respectfully, he taps one fist against his heart. "I'm your man until the end."

"That's more than I expected, Canderous." Revan bows back, not quite as low but still decidedly gracious. "I'm honored."

"It's my honor to serve you." Straightening, Canderous dons his usual pre-battle smirk. "Now, let's get this ship in the air so that we can storm the damn Forge already!"

"Actually, I want the Hawk to stay here for now."

Canderous's expression immediately falters. "Wait, I'm confused. She's the fastest ship in the Outer Rim and your best chance at reaching the Star Forge safely."

"Second best chance, actually," Revan corrects the Mandalorian.

"Um, yes," Bastila begins, doing a poor job at not tripping over her words. "You see, Canderous, I also have a ship. One that Malak recognizes as being part of his own fleet. Revan thinks that if we take my ship we'll have less of a chance of being detected prematurely."

"If I take Bastila's ship, I'll have stealth and the element of surprise on my side." Succinct in his analysis, Revan adds, "I won't if I take the Hawk."

"Alright!" Canderous rubs his hands together in anticipation, his excitement palpable. "Let's get on that ship, then!"

Wincing, Bastila quickly mumbles, "Unfortunately, it can only fit two people."

"Oh. I get it. This is a Jedi-thing, isn't it? Or a Sith thing?" Gesturing between the pair of Force users, Canderous admits, "I'll be honest, sometimes I can't tell the difference with you people."

"It's more of an… I'll probably need backup thing." Exhaling heavily as he considers his strategy, Revan assesses, "Stealth won't take us all the way to Malak. And once my cover is blown I'm going to need you and H-Kay to come in and shoot anything that moves."

Enthusiasm restored, Canderous claps the former Knight on the shoulder. "Now that's what I like to hear! Alright, I can do that, no problem."

Upon hearing his name, the assassin droid appears with surprising swiftness, seeming to melt out of the shadows of the Hawk's entryway. Bastila can't help but shudder a little when she realizes that he was probably listening to the entire conversation without anyone but Revan knowing he was present.

"Observation: Oh Master, it seems that you finally have someone you would like blasted." HK-47's eyes glow in appreciation. "Suddenly I am in an excellent mood!"

"Yes, H-Kay. I want you to assist Canderous for the rest of this mission." Smiling fondly at his droid, Revan orders, "If he tells you to shoot something, make sure it stays down."

Seeming positively delighted, HK-47 declares, "Observation: Master, you are sounding far more like your old self. This gives me great hope for the violence that we can achieve together."

"I'm glad that your psychotic droid is on board." Jerking a thumb towards the Hawk, worry worms its way around Canderous's presence as he wonders, "But, uh, what should I do about the kid and the carpet? And your boyfriend, for that matter?"

"Keep Mission and Zaalbar in the crew quarters, at least until you reach the Star Forge. After that, do whatever you think is best." Turning to glare warningly at the droid, Revan's voice is severe as he instructs, "And H-Kay, you do not have permission to kill any of them, Carth included."

"Statement: Master, your attachment to all of these meatbags is the only thing standing in the way of you achieving droid-like efficiency." Heaving a weary mechanical sight, HK-47 mutters, "But very well, I will comply."

"Forgive me, Master. But what about Carth? I noticed that you and he seem to be…" Bastila pauses, carefully choosing her words due to the sensitive nature of the situation. "More intimate than I remember."

"Let's just say that something good came out of your attempted murder back on the Leviathan. Near-death experiences are weird like that." A strange, almost wistful expression crosses Revan's face, though it only lasts an instant. Yet, it's long enough for fleeting wisps of affection to curl around him in warm rays. "Anyway Canderous, I'm pretty sure Carth will be back and that he'll… have a lot to say. Hear him out if it sounds important. Other than that, handle him the same way you're handling the other two."

"Understood," the Mandalorian replies with a grin and a wink, mirth alighting around him. "I'll make sure that he doesn't try anything stupid."

Relief colors Revan's words, the sensation traveling through the bond and flowing over his being. "Great, I knew I could count on both of you."

Sounding distinctly annoyed at the admiration, HK-47 complains, "Statement: I am far more reliable than this slushy organic. But, I suppose I can accept that as a compliment."

"Shouldn't everything be a compliment if it's coming from me?" Revan wonders, eyeing the droid accusingly for a moment before exhaling sharply and adopting a more serious tone. "Anyway, both of you have your orders. I trust that Tee-Three can handle the rest of the ship, at least until Carth comes to his senses."

Sucking a breath through her teeth, Bastila quietly mutters, "Master, he may never…"

Revan hastily cuts his apprentice off. "Just… give him time." Turning to the Mandalorian and the droid, he withdraws a small commlink from his pants pocket. "I still have the distress signal we set up on Manaan and I'll use it once I need the Hawk's assistance. There's a large green light in the upper left-hand corner of the comm unit that will start blinking once I activate this. It will also raise an alarm throughout the ship. While I don't think you can miss the sound, stay alert for my signal."

"You may wish to get off of this planet and into orbit before then," Bastila suggests. "It will certainly make things easier on our end."

"Just… wait for Carth if you can." A faint spark of hope flutters about Revan for a heartbeat, momentarily outshining the cold blankness his presence has acquired. "Please."

"Don't worry, I can handle things from here." Shooing the Force users away with a wave of his hands, Canderous exudes confidence as he insists, "You two get to the Forge. And if you see Malak before I arrive… make sure you get the whole thing on video."

Giving the Mandalorian a firm pat on the shoulder, Revan's gratitude is a warm burst in the Force. "Thank you Canderous. For everything."

"You said that you needed to acquire some extra supplies?" Bastila asks, nodding towards where the Hawk is sitting.

"Yeah, I have most of them packed and ready to load." Gesturing to the freighter, Revan hurriedly strides over the dunes and towards the landing ramp. "Help me grab the bags and then we can head to the Star Forge."

"Of course, Master." Bowing obediently, Bastila falls into step behind the older Force user. Closing her eyes for a moment, she lets her awareness drift out into the greater eddies of the Force surrounding the planet. Everything here seems to thrum with power, a dark array of ancient energy that practically reverberates with possibility. She lets the gravity of the moment wash over her before declaring, "I sense that something great is awaiting you there."

"That something is my past." A chill moves through Revan, matching the lingering sense of dread that drifts across the bond with icy tendrils. "It's finally time to confront everything I left behind."


Author's Notes:

Thank you readers! Comments and (constructive) criticism are always welcome. I like to know what I'm doing well, and what needs more work.

A few notes:

1. Juhani's quotes and warnings to Vann actually harken back to their first conversations on Dantooine in chapters 6 and 7. A lot has happened since then, so I figured a reminder couldn't hurt.

2. I understand the in-game reason that Bastila's ship can only hold one person. However, that never stopped me from being annoyed about it. So, in this story her ship can hold two plus a small amount of gear.

3. The six tenants Canderous refers to are the Resol'nare, which is the central code of Mandalorian life and culture (at least in Legends/the EU).

4. I was originally going to present this chapter without comment. Either way, we're headed to the Star Forge!

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