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Chapter 7: Ceremonies

After hours of talking and drinking with Jolee in the cantina, Revan departed bid farewell to him and returned to the Ebon Hawk. Upon arriving he found Bastila and Mission had already fallen asleep, and he decided to do the same. Revan thanked the force that he was able to sneak Bastila's "present" into the ship so easily.

With everything that had to be done the next day, Revan decided to wake up early. Mission and Bastila hadn't awoken yet, so Revan left a message in T3 telling them where he was going. After leaving the Ebon Hawk he departed on a shuttle toward the Republic enclave, where he hoped to meet with Admiral Onasi. At the Republic enclave he was greeted by a sleepy-looking receptionist at a desk.

"What is your business here, Master Jedi?" he asked groggily.

"I seek to speak with Admiral Onasi, if he is able."

"Yes, he's been expecting you – Revan, I believe?" The clerk spoke his name while trying to mask a mixture of awe and fear. Yes, the scars of the past ran deep.

"I am he," Revan told him, trying not to sound imposing. He had no desire to instill more fear in this man than he already had, but on the inside Revan smirked at the benefits of being a former Sith. Some people, although definitely not most people, treated you with unusual respect.

"I'll notify him of your arrival. Uh, you may have to wait a few minutes, though. He's a little busy at the moment. You may take a seat until he's ready to speak with you."

Revan sat down in one of the nearby seats and waited patiently for Carth to call him in. Revan noticed the clerk shifting uneasily in his seat and sensed his nervousness. It seemed that being in the same room with a former Sith Lord was not something the clerk was accustomed to. Minutes passed by, and Revan began to wonder what Carth was doing that held him up so long. Finally, after half an hour of waiting, Revan was summoned.

"Admiral Onasi is ready to see you," said the sleepy clerk. "Hey – are you asleep?"

"Hmm…what?" asked Revan, who had indeed almost drifted off. "I'm awake."

"Sure. This guard here will escort you to the Admiral." An armed Republic soldier had stepped into the room. "Sorry for the inconvenience."

Revan replied, "No problem," and left the room with the guard. He was lead down the wide corridors of the enclave, passing Republic soldiers and utility droids along the way. At last they arrived at a large doorway. Revan stepped through the door and beheld a fairly large room with moderate furnishings. At the other side of the room was a large desk in which sat Admiral Onasi. He regarded Revan with a nod and motioned for him to sit down in a chair across from him. Revan complied and sat down across from his friend.

"Well, you look cheerful this morning," Carth remarked.

"Look who's talking," retorted Revan.

"Sorry I kept you waiting so long, but I kind of had my hands full with something."

"Telos," guessed Revan.

Carth nodded. "Yeah, things aren't looking to good right now. The destruction of Peragus by these new Sith has put a dent in our plans. We still have a moderate fuel supply left, but I doubt it will be enough to continue the project for long. The fights between Czerka and the Ithorian diplomats doesn't help, and thanks to the situation with the exile I've found out that the Telosian authorities are barely competent enough to properly handle things down there."

"I'm sorry, Carth. I wish there was something I could do."

"Well, let's not talk about that right now. We have other things to worry about." He quickly changed the subject. "So, I guess you're here because the Jedi council said we needed to talk, right?"

"Yeah. With everything going on we need to start preparing for another armed conflict, it seems."

"As if we needed another one," sighed Carth.

"First, before we go on, I want to ask you something, Carth."

"Shoot."

"I have met with the exile and Master Kreia, but I have yet to see this one called 'Atton Rand'. Why is he still being held?"

"Well, it's kind of complicated. You see, he has a record."

"A record?" asked Revan.

"Well, you see, unlike Kreia and the exile, we know this guy committed a crime. He was arrested at Peragus for trying to smuggle fuel out of the system. Apparently, he had made a deal with some gang on Nar Shadaa to sell them fuel for credits. It didn't really work out, though. We're keeping him here long enough to charge him."

"Any idea what his past is like, Carth?" asked Revan, remembering what Juhani had said of her suspicions regarding Atton.

"That is the peculiar part. He has no files dating after the end of the Mandalorian wars. He was a soldier, alright, but we have no idea what he was doing during the Jedi Civil War. After the war, however, he decides to show up when he's arrested for smuggling."

"So let me guess," said Revan, "You believe he may have worked for the Sith during the Jedi Civil War?"

"Yes, that's pretty much it, although we have no proof of it, and he denies everything. He claims he was just traveling the Republic to get away from the war. Without enough evidence, we may have to release him with smuggling charges instead of treason."

"I don't understand, Carth. Haven't the Jedi helped you determine whether he was a Sith or not?"

"Well, as you already know they've had their hands full with everything that's been happening. Besides, they tend to have this 'moral' objection against forcing others to their will. It's too bad, that force-persuasion technique can really come in handy."

"Maybe I can look into him for you, Carth"

"Are you sure about that, Revan? You probably have a lot on your hands already."

"Not any more than you do. Don't worry, I can manage it." Revan felt a nagging suspicion that there was more to the story than either of them knew.

"Thanks a lot, Revan. You know, I wish more Jedi were like you and Bastila."

Revan rolled his eyes. "Aw, you flatter me."

"No really, I mean it. Oh by the way, I hear Bastila's getting knighted today. I'll try and make to her ceremony, but if I don't, you can tell her I said congratulations."

"Will do, Carth. You know, I ran into Jolee yesterday."

Carth's eyes perked up a bit. "You don't say? I thought the old coot was out wondering the outer rim or something."

"I guess he ran out of credits and decided to leech off of me again," Carth chuckled at Revan's jest. At least Carth still had his sense of humor. "Seriously, though, he's staying on Coruscant for the time being. Maybe you two can talk at Bastila's ceremony if you make it."

Carth shrugged. "Well, I'll try to make it if I can. Sorry to ruin the conversation, but we should discuss what we were supposed to be talking about."

"About what?"

"We are supposed to be coordinating strategy, here, to deal with these Sith. We don't have much time to talk, so let's at least get something accomplished."

Revan grudgingly agreed. After over an hour of discussion, Revan and Carth finally decided to part.

"Well, meet up with me tomorrow and we'll talk some more," said Carth. "I have some more things to do with the damn Telos project, now."

"Very well, Carth. I should be going back to the Academy, anyway." Before he could leave, however, Carth stopped him.

"Hey Revan – can I ask you a question?"

Revan looked back over his shoulder. "Go ahead."

"Are you planning on doing something special for Bastila after her ceremony? I thought it'd be appropriate considering she's going to be knighted, and all."

A smile slid over Revan's face. He faced Carth. "I'm taking her out somewhere tonight, sure, but that's not all I'm doing."

"Come on, what are you planning?"

Revan just remained silent for a moment. Finally, "I have it, Carth."

"Have what?"

Revan took the thing he bought yesterday out of one of his pockets and showed it to Carth. The Admiral seemed to be in awe as he stared at it. He then looked up at Revan and nodded understandingly.

"Well, I wish you good luck. I'm behind you all the way, believe me. I've done this myself," he told the Jedi. Revan slid the object back into his pocket, said farewell to his friend, and left.

Bastila's knighting ceremony attracted more attention than Revan had expected. Jedi from all around the academy had gathered to watch, and Revan noticed many non-Jedi there as well. It took place in the great hall of the Academy, and every Jedi Master was present. Even Master Kreia was there as well, but she stood apart from everyone else and watched with faint interest. As Revan had hoped, many of Bastila's friends were able to make it. Juhani, Jolee Bindo, and Mission were there along with Quaid Darin, the exile. As Revan peered through the crowd he noticed a familiar man in a Republic officer suit.

"Carth! Hey, Carth!" Revan called out to him. The admiral turned to see where the voice had come from and spotted Revan and the rest of the crew. He hurried over to them wearing the first smile Revan had seen on him for a while.

Jolee was the first to respond. "Hey 'Admiral'. Glad you could make it!"

"Hey, I'm never one to miss out on these things. Work has been very boring, anyway." Carth shifted his gaze to Quaid Darin. "So you're the one Revan told me all about." Carth extended his hand to the exile. "I'm Carth Onasi. You've probably heard of me more than once, but I don't believe we've ever met in person."

Quaid accepted the gesture and shook Carth's hand. "It's an honor to meet you, Carth. I think I do remember you vaguely from the war, though. You know, Revan's told me a lot about you, too. A big war hero, from what I hear."

"Yeah, well, being a war hero isn't all it's cracked up to be. You above all people probably know that."

"Very true," responded Quaid with a sigh. "Oh well. Let's not dwell on the past just yet."

"Hey, Carth!" Mission cut in. "When this is over with, do you want to come out with us and celebrate?"

"Uh…I don't know, Mission."

"Oh come on, Carth," Revan responded. "You've been working yourself like a bantha, lately. You need some time to relax."

Jolee added his own advice. "Junior here is right, Carth. If there's one thing I learned, it's that you need to strike a balance between work and play. Come on, you're way too young to be letting yourself get overwhelmed with your responsibilities. You need to take time to relax, you know. Find some joy in your life, for crying out loud!"

Carth seemed uneasy as he thought of what to do. "Well, I guess I can come with you guys."

"Trust me, Carth, you'll be glad you did," said Revan.

"Hush! It begins!" Juhani pointed toward the end of the hall. The crowd fell silent as the Jedi council arranged themselves in a semicircle and the small form of Master Vandar stepped out into the center.

"Padawan Bastila, step forward!" he called out.

Revan peered over the crowd and spotted Bastila emerge from the shadows and into the crowd. She was wearing the customary Jedi robes instead of her usual form-fitting attire Revan liked. She strove silently toward the crowd of Masters. Her face appeared calm and confident, yet he could feel her nervousness through their bond.

"Don't choke," Revan communicated to her through the bond. He noticed Bastila glance briefly at him. A smile so feint you could barely see it spread on her face.

"If I do, it will be your fault," she retorted sarcastically. Bastila refocused her attention on the crowd of Masters before her. As she slowly ascended the steps she ran through every force technique she could to control her nervousness and excitement. She noticed briefly the expressions of the Masters as she approached. Vandar, Kavar, and Vash wore expressions of contentment and satisfaction. Even Master Atris had managed a weak smile, although Vrook's face resembled an angry kath hound. Bastila stopped before Master Vandar, stooped to her knees, and bowed her head.

"Padawan Bastila," began Vandar, "as a member of the Jedi council it is my greatest honor to welcome you into this ceremony today. Throughout the trials of your life you have learned and accomplished much. Your deeds for the Republic and the Jedi alike will always be remembered in the heart of our order. As such, it is my honor to welcome you into the path of knighthood."

His speech continued for a few minutes while Revan waited impatiently.

"Your achievement of attaining your rank is recognition of your experience. You have grown strong in your abilities in the force and in you own wisdom. This, however, is but another step on your long journey through the force. As you continue, you will only grow stronger and wiser in your ways."

Master Kavar walked up holding a neatly folded, blue set of Jedi robes. He presented it to Bastila and she slowly took it with gratitude. At last, Vandar finished the ceremony.

"Bastila, I now proclaim you a full Knight of the Jedi order. You may rise."

A ring of applause erupted throughout the hall. Revan, Quaid, and the rest of Bastila's friends clapped and cheered the loudest. A short while after the ceremony, as the crowd dispersed, an ecstatic Bastila rushed to greet her friends. Her first action was a graceful leap into Revan's waiting arms.

"Congratulations, Bast," said Revan as he hugged her back. Finally she broke away. Greetings, congratulations, and hugs were exchanged between Bastila and the rest of the crew. Quaid stood off to the side a little, not sure how he should respond to the woman he had not seen for so long. This was the first time in years they had even seen each other. After Bastila was finished receiving congratulations from the rest of the crew, she regarded him with a mixture of awe and compassion as she approached.

"Why, hello Quaid," she said slowly. She stopped just a foot short of him and stared him in the eyes. She, too, was unsure of how to react. The rest of the crew regarded the situation with curiosity. Finally, after moments of hesitation, the two Jedi melted into a friendly embrace. Revan silently thanked the force and was relieved to see them being so accepting.

"It's great to see you again, Bastila. Congratulations," said the exile as they hugged. Bastila broke apart and looked at him warmly.

"Thank you. It's wonderful to see you, too," she said. "Where have you been all these years?"

"It's a long story, as I told Revan. Why don't we talk more about it when we all leave to celebrate?"

"Yes. I'd like that."

Revan stopped beside Bastila and placed on arm on her shoulder. "Well, what do you say we go and celebrate? The sooner we leave the academy the better."

"Hold on!" Mission interrupted. She ran up to Revan and Bastila holding two miniscule packages. "I told you guys I had a surprise for you. Here they are!"

Revan and Bastila each took a package. They looked at each other and then at the small gifts with confused faces. "What are they, Mission?" asked Bastila.

Mission's smile only grew wider. "Go ahead. Open them!" The two Jedi each unwrapped the small gifts. As the brown wrapping paper was torn off it revealed two small holocrons. Mission took a step back. "Now please, don't be mad at me. I just couldn't resist."

"Resist what?" asked Revan as he pushed the button to activate the holocron. An image flickered to life, and he and Bastila gasped at what they saw.

The image showed the two Jedi. They were both sleeping, and Bastila was lying peacefully on top of her lover. It was no doubt taken of them on Dantooine when Bastila had fallen asleep on top of Revan. Carth and Jolee both suppressed a laugh. Juhani and Quaid both looked at the image dumbstruck.

"Mission…" began Bastila. She activated her holocron, and it showed the same.

Mission raised her hands defensively. "I just couldn't resist it. You two just looked so cute! It would have been a waste to not have saved that moment." She paused nervously. "Do you like them?" She was expecting an angry response from the two Jedi.

"Like it? Oh, Mission, I love it!" exclaimed Bastila.

Revan was beaming. He looked up from the image to the little blue twi'lek. "So this is what you were doing with T3, huh?"

"Yeah. When I saw you two asleep I asked him to take a picture for me. After that, he and I both built them for you. I just thought you'd like to, you know, carry around a picture of each other when you're not together."

"Thank you, Mission. This was a wonderful gift," Revan told her.

"So, you're not mad at me?" she asked, sounding rather relieved. The two Jedi both shook their heads.

"No," assured Bastila, "This was a great idea. Thank you."

"Just one request, Mission," said Revan. "Please try to avoid taking more 'intimate' photos in the future."

Mission laughed and nodded understandingly. "Will do, Rev. Whew! I'm glad that's over with."

"Well, people, let's not stand around here talking all day. My legs are starting to atrophy," moaned Jolee.

"Very well. Let's go!" Bastila exclaimed. As the crowd of friends left the academy, Revan sent another thought communication to Bastila.

"Bastila, how about we go out later tonight – just the two of us?"

Bastila responded, "Just the two of us?"

"I was thinking of taking you out somewhere special, without the rest of the crew."

"Alright, then. What do you have in mind?"

"I know the perfect place. Trust me, you'll like it."

"Going secretive on me? Very well, I'll play along."

The group of friends went off and celebrated Bastila's ceremony in one of the fancy cantinas of Coruscant. For hours, stories were told, jokes were exchanged, and a wonderful time was had by all. The focus of the conversation seemed to shift from one focus to the next. Juhani and Mission told tales of Taris, before and after the war; Jolee spun stories of his early days as a Jedi; and Carth, Revan, and Bastila all recounted interesting moments of their lives, not the least of which was the quest for the Star Forge.

Even Quaid Darin -- to Revan's relief, -- took part in much of the talking. Thankfully, they left Malachor out of the conversation. Quaid and Bastila spent time talking with each other about what each had been doing since the Mandalorian Wars. A wonderful time was had by all, and despite the amount of uncertainty which lay ahead, all was right with the galaxy.

After hours of celebration, the crew finally parted ways. Jolee decided to return to his ship. Quaid and Juhani returned to the academy, Carth returned to his duties, and Mission, Bastila, and Revan returned to the Ebon Hawk. Feeling rather tired, Revan and Bastila took some well-needed rest before their evening out.

At nightfall, Revan stepped into the port dormitory and beheld Bastila wearing her new set of blue Jedi robes, examining her appearance.

"They suit you well," Revan said as he approached her. Bastila looked over her shoulder at him.

"You think so?" She actually seemed concerned.

"Of course. You wear blue rather well."

"I suppose, although I really shouldn't be making a fashion statement out of Jedi robes."

Revan threw an arm around her. "Are you ready to go?"

Bastila suppressed a gasp. She had almost forgotten about it. "Alright. Just let me change and I'll be ready."

Within moments she emerged from the dormitory wearing a set of normal clothes. Both Jedi decided to dress in civilian garb instead of their Jedi robes.

"Hey, Mission," called Revan.

"Yeah?" came her response from the main hold.

"Bastila and I are leaving. If we receive any transmissions, tell them we've left."

"Sure, Rev. Bye! Have a great time!"

Bastila and Revan slipped out of the Ebon Hawk and into the night. Shortly thereafter they arrived at a rather large cantina/restaurant. A sign in bright neon colors read: "The Crystal Den."

"So this is what you had in mind?" asked Bastila with her hands on her hips. "I must say, Revan, you know how to choose."

"Wait until you see the inside." He gave her a sly wink. At the entrance they were greeted by a green twi'lek.

"May I ask if you have a reservation here?" he asked them. Revan cleared his throat.

"I believe you have a reservation for a Master Revan and Miss Bastila?"

"Oh, yes! We have you right here. Step right inside." He motioned with his hand toward the inside. "If you don't mind me saying, we are quite honored by your visit. We certainly don't receive Jedi here very often."

"Well, we're not your average Jedi, if I may say," Revan responded.

He and Bastila stepped inside as they were led to their table by the twi'lek. What they saw earned an "Ooh" from Bastila. The inside was wide and spacious, and dimly lit. Scattered around were various tables, most of which held couples. Waiters and waitresses moved among the tables serving the various customers. At the side against a wall was a Bith band playing a soft romantic number. In front of the band was a square tile surface on which couples danced slowly. Clearly, this place was designed to specifically accommodate couples.

Finally they stopped at a small, round table not too far from the band. After taking an order of drinks, the waiter handed them each a menu and left. "You planned this!" exclaimed Bastila as she sat opposite of Revan.

"Are you surprised? I guess now you know what 'errands' I've been running."

Bastila sighed. "Revan, you didn't have to go through such trouble for me."

"I'll pretend I'm not insulted by that." He leaned toward her. "I assure you, you're worth the trouble, beautiful."

"Heh. You never cease to remind me why I'm still with you. Thank you. (sigh) I just wish there was something I could do for you in return."

"Ah, don't worry about it."

It did not take long for the two Jedi to start talking. Within moments they were buried deep in conversation as the soft music played in the background. All that time they talked about practically anything came to mind. At one point Bastila talked about the times she spent with her family before she had to leave them. At another time Revan discussed the times he, Malak, and Quaid spent together during the Mandalorian Wars. They did not talk about the new Sith, as they would have plenty of time to do that the next day. For them, this was their one chance to escape the burdens brought by the outside world.

Eventually, they began reminiscing about their times together during their quest for the Star Forge.

"Bastila, do you remember the time we first met? I mean, after Taris?"

"I remember I thought you were the vainest, most arrogant man I had ever met," she told him as she sipped her wine.

Revan laughed. "And I thought you were the most stuck-up, prissy little woman I had ever come across." Now it was Bastila's turn to laugh. "And look at us now," he finished.

"Strange, isn't it? The force works in mysterious ways."

"Indeed it does. Do you remember the time on Manaan – when we first kissed?"

Bastila's eyes wandered wistfully. "How could I ever forget? Never before in my life had I felt so nervous, excited, happy, and afraid at once."

"Mm-hmm. I'm just thankful it wasn't the last one we were able to share." He paused. His tone grew more serious. "You know, I thought I had lost you for good when you confronted me on the Rakatan temple. I'm just so thankful I was wrong."

Bastila gazed downward and she took his hand in hers. Her eyes shifted so they met Revan's. "Me too. And I can never thank you enough for what you did, Revan; for saving me. Now that I look back, the very fact that I ever wanted to hurt you is just…frightening."

Revan cupped his other hand over Bastila's. "But you didn't go through with it. You knew where your heart truly lay, and you made your choice. That is what is most important."

Revan's head turned as he took notice of the Bith band. He turned back to Bastila. "So, do you like this place?" he asked her.

"Revan, it's wonderful! I love it! Although, how did you ever find out about it?"

"Err, Carth recommended it to me. He said he and his wife had been here before."

"Well, this place is great. I can certainly see why he recommended it. Thank you for taking me here." She turned her head to the Bith band. They noticed a female twi'lek step up to the stage and take the microphone in her hands. The band began playing a new song, and she began to sing a slow melody in tune to the music. Revan and Bastila instantly recognized it as a romantic number.

Revan shifted his attention to the woman across from him. "May I have this dance, Bastila?"

She snapped her head in his direction, appearing somewhat astonished. "Why of course, Revan. Only…"

"Only what?"

She drew a deep breath. "Well, its just that…I've never really danced before."

Revan smirked. "It's okay. Neither have I, but it's never too late to learn, right?"

"Heh. Alright, but you've been warned."

They stepped onto the dance floor and grasped each other. Their first attempt was mediocre, at best. More than once one tripped over the other's foot or was too slow or fast for the other. This earned a few laughs from the two Jedi and some glances from the other dancers as well.

However, as the music played on, the two Jedi became more unified. They reached out to each other through their bond and unified their movements. Soon, they glided gracefully across the floor as practically one; their movements matching each other's as the twi'lek sang her romantic melody.

The two lovers held each other as they moved. Through their bond their minds touched, and their love flowed between the two of them as they danced. Their minds relaxed as they gazed lovingly into each other's eyes. Bastila felt herself drifting off into pure ecstasy. This was the most wonderful day she could remember in a long time. Her eyes were half-closed, yet the blue inside still shone clearly to Revan.

He leaned close into her and whispered into her ear, "Bastila, come with me after this. There is something I want to show you."

Later, after they finally left the restaurant, Revan took Bastila to a shuttle which transported them to a nearby sky ramp. There they were let off and Revan lead Bastila along the sky ramp.

"Do me one favor, Bastila. Close your eyes."

"What?" she asked skeptically.

"Just close your eyes. Trust me. It's a surprise."

"Alright, I'll play along." She closed her eyes. Revan got behind her and led her by the shoulders along the walkway. At last, he came to a familiar balcony and led Bastila up to the rail.

"Okay, open your eyes." She opened them and let out an awed gasp. Before her lay the sprawling city of Coruscant. The view stretched on for miles, and the brilliant lights emanating from the buildings resembled a starry night. The ships and speeders flying through the air resembled bright comets streaking through the sky.

"Revan, it's beautiful," she muttered wistfully. It was a magnificent view. He affectionately threw an arm around her.

"I know you're more the 'nature' type, but since there's not much nature on this planet I decided to go for the next best thing. I know you liked to stargaze and I thought this might be a good spot."

"Revan…" she stammered, "Thank you. It's so beautiful."

Revan gathered his courage. The entire purpose of this night was all built upon what he planned to do next. He tried to control his nervousness and excitement. He was so uncertain, yet he had to do it. He patted his robe one last time to make sure he still had her "gift". When he felt it, he breathed a sigh of relief and focused on Bastila.

He turned her so their eyes met. "Bastila, the real reason I brought you out hear was because I wanted to ask you something." She looked at him confused. "Bastila, we've been together for only a couple years, yet in that short time we've grown so close. We are bound in mind. Our thoughts, emotions, pains, and joys become each other's. And so, I need to ask you, would you have it any other way? Do you love me?"

Bastila was quite taken aback by his question. She struggled to find an answer as he looked at her eagerly. Finally, "Revan, you are like no other man I've ever met before. You are unique! After all that we've been through, how can you even ask if I love you? There is no man in the entire galaxy who could ever replace you! There is no one who could ever make me feel as you do. Our minds are linked, but it is a bond I gladly share with you, for I can imagine sharing my life with no other man but you. When I call you 'my love', I mean it. Nothing could make me feel safer or happier to be loved by you! With all my heart, I love you, Revan."

He closed eyes and smiled. "Thank you, Bastila." He opened them and looked her straight in her own ocean-blue eyes. "And I feel the same way about you. My feelings for you run deep, but I need you to see the scope of my feelings. I need you to see how deep my love for you goes. The more I look at you, the more I am convinced that you are the only one. No force can separate us, not even the force that bound us in the first place, and as such, I just need to do this. I'm sorry I'm doing this now. It probably is not the best time for it, but I can't hold it in any longer."

Tears started swelling in Bastila's eyes as she realized where this was leading. She struggled to say something, but all that came out was: "Revan…"

Revan reached into his robes and took out a tiny box. Upon seeing this Bastila cupped her hands over her mouth as she tried to hold back her tears. Revan smiled at her reaction. He opened the box and the inside lit up, revealing a small, golden ring. In the center was a set a brilliant blue gemstone. Revan knelt down on one knee in front of her and held the ring up to her.

"Bastila Shan, I love you. Will you marry me?" he asked as he gazed up at her.

It was now a struggle for Bastila just to speak; she was so overcome with emotion. "I…you…we…I don't…I mean…Yes, Revan! Of course I will." She bent down and embraced him tightly. She smiled through her joyous sobs. Revan stood up with her and slowly slipped the ring on her finger.

"It matches your eyes," he whispered softly. He gazed lovingly into her eyes. She seemed to glow in the moonlight.

She met his gaze. "Thank you, Revan. I love you." Her face started inching slowly toward his.

"I love you too, Bastila." Their faces finally met in a long, deep, passionate kiss. It was one of the most powerful they shared in a long time, almost as powerful as the one they shared on the Star Forge.

The two Jedi hugged and kissed passionately in the moonlight. They were now all but ready for anything the future held for them. Yes, there was a threat, but whatever this threat was, they would face it together and emerge victorious, one way or another.

Was the last scene mushy enough for you? (lol) This chapter was way longer than anticipated, and I didn't get it posted as soon as I wanted to. It's amazing how fast these stories get buried in the back pages! Credit goes to Barachiel for the whole "Bastila stargazing" idea. PLEASE read and review! The next chapter will introduce the long-anticipated Atton as well as more of the exile. Wait until you see what I have planned for our heroes in the future. (laughs diabolically)

BTW: I have two other stories docked in my profile. They are "The Knight and the Princess" and "HK-47's Song". If you have time, check those two out as well. This story is my main one but I'm eager for opinion on the other two. Anyway, until next time!