Epilogue
Cestus was tired. He quietly boarded the shuttle wrapped in a shell of Force Suppression so that Vader would not see through the illusion. He knew his allotted lifespan was nearing its end and wanted nothing more than to see his wife and son once again. The journey to where his family waited for him was a long way off, by intent this was so.
Along the way, Cestus changed identities five times, taking more miscellaneous routes than anyone would consider looking. Each time, with each identity and in each direction he went, he kept himself cloaked in a Force shield of unremarkability. To anyone who looked, he would appear as a plain man, not handsome or ugly, rich or poor. Just another sentient trying to make his way in the galaxy.
The reunion with his wife was a joyous occasion after which they settled into their lives.
Several Years Later
Cestus was awakened by a gently touch on his shoulder. Qui Gon Jinn's voice said: "Are you awake old friend?" Cestus opened his eyes and saw his old Master standing over him just like he had so many times before, long ago when Cestus was a Padawan. "Master?" mumbled Cestus. "What are you doing here?"
Qui Gon looked down at his former Padawan and said: "I'm here to take you back to the Temple." Cestus, awake now, sat up and said: "But Qui Gon, the Temple is no more. The Emperor razed it long ago. How am I able to speak with you again?"
With a smile Qui Gon said: "Look at your hands my friend and you will have your answers." When he did, Cestus saw a bright blue nimbus around hands no longer spotted with age, but smooth and supple once again. Looking himself over, he found he wasn't in bed next to Tala but standing up, dressed in traditional Jedi robes and the blue nimbus all around him.
As Qui Gon had promised, the answer came to him. "I must have died then. I knew my time was short but I couldn't have guessed how short. I hope Tala will not be too disturbed." Qui Gon looked on and said: "Only your physical shell has died. The luminosity that is truly you is eternal. Besides, she too knew your time was near. She will find you shortly, bring your son to say goodbye, grieve, as she should, then heal and move on. Your body will vanish due to your oneness and understanding with the total Force. This understanding has granted you the ability to retain your identity in the netherworld of the Force. For appearances sake, a grave marker will be erected near your home and life will move on. It is time for us to leave now. When Tala's time is done, you can come back for her but for now, come with me old friend. We have waited for you to take your seat on the Jedi Council . . ."
Many Years Later
Tala was awakened by a gentle touch on her shoulder and a good morning kiss on her cheek as a dearly remembered and sorely missed voice said: "Are you awake my love?"