A Sith acolyte slammed into the wall with a bone cracking thud. Crumpling to the ground, he moaned in pain. The acolyte's whimpering became a strangled gasp as he was lifted from the ground. His neck snapped, and his body was tossed aside like a discarded toy.

Revan casually adjusted his gloves and looked around the crowded training room. He was surrounded by a ring of thirty apprentices and acolytes all armed with lightsabers. There was a hundred more spread out further around the room, watching and waiting in the shadows for their turn to face the Master. Two hundred fledgling dark Jedi had started the day's training session, but the Sith Lord's brutal methods consistently thinned their numbers.

He motioned them forward and the ring of dark Jedi closed in around him. Revan shut his eyes, and let the Force guide his motion. His own lightsabers remained clipped at his belt, much to the surprise of those watching. Twisting and weaving, the Sith Lord evaded strike after clumsy strike that was aimed at him. He dodged and swerved, feeling the pulsing rhythm of the Force surging through his mind. An acolyte struck high toward his chest and Revan arched backwards, bending like a stand of Xosha grass in the wind. Stepping away as the blade passed by, he turned and sidestepped two others. With his eyes closed, the Force showed him every blade, every step as his opponents sought to catch him. Revan could hear the grunts and groans, the tired panting as the acolytes and apprentices struggled to keep up or accidentally hit each other as they missed him.

Finally, striking like a Corellian Dire-cat, the Dark Lord attacked. He leapt over one apprentice, only to spin around and deliver a vicious kick to the apprentice's back. His fist connected with another apprentice's face. Dropping into a low crouch, he swept the feet out from under three acolytes. Revan spun around, kicking another in the chest and sending that acolyte into two others who also fell. The rest panicked and scrambled back away from him. Straightening up, he looked at them all. His lips curled into a disgusted snarl beneath his mask. The Sith Lord's anger erupted in a vicious wave of lightning.

"You are all pathetic. I should save myself the trouble and just kill the lot of you. We will continue the training tomorrow and maybe some of you will survive to actually learn something."

He walked out of the room, still seething at the ineptitude of the majority of his forces recently. It had been four days since the attempt was made on Bastila. During those four days, Revan had been exercising his pent up emotions in the process of "training" the soldiers and dark Jedi aboard the Star Forge. There had, of course, been casualties. One hundred and seventy-five soldiers and dark Jedi had died over those four days. As the days had passed, Revan's mood had deteriorated to seething fury and the deaths became an increasingly expected occurrence during the training exercises.

Revan prowled the corridors of the Star Forge walking off the anger that had built up during the latest training session. Breathing deeply, he fought to rein in the rage that threatened his self-control. Slowly, the rational, calmer part of his mind prevailed. Revan knew the anger he felt was constantly being amplified and fueled by the Star Forge. As he distanced himself from the training room, Revan's resistance to the Star Forge's dark influence returned and the shadows retreated once more.

He had seen very little of Bastila over the last four days. She had become increasingly frustrating, resisting his efforts at every turn. No matter what he tried, she refused to give an inch. Beyond that, he found himself becoming distracted by her- too easily distracted. That bothered him more than anything. As the Dark Lord, being distracted would be fatal if anyone became overly ambitious. The Star Forge's dark whispers returned to gnaw at his mind, trying to convince him that Bastila was a threat to him, weakening him with her presence. Revan growled and blocked out the incessant whispers. He had taken the opportunity to distance himself from her. Over the last four days, he checked in with HK-47 to ensure she was still safe and being cared for, but decided to just leave her alone for a while.

He felt a presence in the Force but kept walking. A young female Twi'lek fell into step beside him. He glanced over at her, a smile crossing his lips. The dim, unnatural lighting in the corridors muted the golden hue of her skin.

"It amuses me, Rylla, how you are always able to find me. You're getting as bad as HK."

She paused in mid-stride, "Forgive me, my Lord."

He waved one hand nonchalantly and never slowed his pace, "It's alright. I assume, since you are here that means the Talon has docked?"

She nodded and caught up to him again.

"So, I suppose that means you are mine for the time being?"

"Yes, my Lord. Master told me to attend to you." Her warm, amber eyes watched him, expectantly.

"There is actually something you can do for me."

She smiled and looked up at him, "Anything, Lord Revan."

"I have a guest, and I must admit I have been a very poor host. My duties have been keeping me rather busy, and unfortunately that means I have been neglecting my guest. I would appreciate it if you would check in on her. See if there's anything she needs and maybe keep her company. I would imagine she'd enjoy having someone near her own age to talk to."

Rylla bowed, her lekku twitching with disappointment. "As you wish, Lord Revan. Where is your guest?"

"She's staying in my quarters. I trust you remember the way there?" He glanced over at her with a smirk as he caught hints of her desire in thoughts she made no effort to conceal.

The girl blushed slightly, "Yes, my Lord."

Hours later, Revan stood gazing out the view-port of the observation deck of the Star Forge. It was a quiet place, and he found himself spending a lot of time there. He began pacing, and thinking. Revan looked out at the stars again. He was reminded sharply as the cold stars winked back at him, that despite all his planning and maneuvering, the galaxy would continue to move to its own rhythm. A short beep from his com link brought a scowl to his face.

"Yes?"

"Lord Revan, Admiral Blair is requesting to see you."

"Let him in."

Revan glanced at his faint reflection in the glass of the view-port. His mask was tucked into his belt, hidden by the folds of his cloak. He didn't bother putting it on. Admiral Blair had served with him since before he ever started wearing it, and there was nothing to hide between them after so long. The door into the observation deck opened and Revan could hear the Admiral's steady footsteps as he approached. The Sith Lord turned and met the Admiral's hazel eyes.

He bowed slightly, "Lord Revan."

Revan inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Admiral. What brings you here?"

"You had asked me to send out scouts to check on the Republic."

Revan sighed, "Ah, yes. Anything to report?"

"Nothing of great interest. The Republic seems to be licking its wounds right now. Their fleet is too small to really commit to any offensive strikes against you."

Revan nodded as he stared out at the stars. "Thank you, Davon."

Admiral Blair tilted his head, watching Revan. "Permission to speak freely, my Lord?"

"After all these years, Davon? You don't need to ask."

A faint smile crossed Davon's face. "Thank you, Revan. However, old habits die hard for an ancient man like me."

Revan turned to face the Admiral and chuckled, "What's on your mind?"

The older man's calm hazel eyes met the icy blue gaze of the Sith Lord. "Why are you still keeping that Jedi?"

Revan's brows furrowed slightly as he regarded Davon. "She was the Republic's best pawn. As long as I have her she's not being used against us. She may also turn out to be useful to us."

The Admiral expression grew serious, "What are you going to do with her? Do you really expect her to turn like those other Jedi?"

His scowl deepened as he looked over at the old officer. Images of Bastila's fierce defiance came to mind as he thought about her. "Honestly, I'm not sure anymore; things have... changed."

Davon nodded, "A word of advice, if I may?"

Revan's eyebrow arched upwards.

"Decide soon, Revan, before that choice is taken from you. You, above all others, know what this place does to people. I'm not sensitive to your Force, so it has no effect on me. But for the likes of you, and even more for her, it's different. She hasn't truly seen war. She can't understand the dark places you've had to walk, what you've had to do. It's not my place to question your intentions, Revan, but this place is not good for her."

Revan looked away, but he understood what Davon meant, and the old Admiral was right. "What would you suggest?"

The Admiral smiled, "You honestly want me to answer that?"

"Yes."

"She doesn't belong here. That's all I'm going to say about that." Admiral Blair looked thoughtful for a moment before continuing, "Something my father always told me- a man is never truly old until he's traded all his dreams for regrets." He glanced at back Revan. "I'd wager a guess we each have our share of both. You're still a young man, Revan. Don't let it take that from you."

"Thank you, Davon."

The officer nodded, "I'll be on the Vengeance. At least it feels like a proper ship."

Revan sighed heavily as he watched the Admiral leave. He knew the truth behind the old Admiral's words, a wry smile tugged at his lips. He was always amazed at how well Davon could understand him. He looked back out at the timeless stars. He could feel the weight of every day of his twenty-six years resting on his shoulders, yet he felt even older.

He had traded many of his dreams for regrets that now gnawed at his soul. He closed his eyes, wondering if he actually had any dreams left. His thoughts turned to Bastila, and Revan questioned if he even deserved to dream.

Bastila sat cross-legged in the middle of the floor in Revan's quarters. She had been somewhat surprised that Revan had left her alone so much. But then, she expected he had many things to attend to, and honestly didn't mind him not being around. The collar still annoyed her immensely and she tried frequently to find some way to get it off.

She tried to meditate, but it felt wrong without being able to touch the Force. She was too disturbed to center herself. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door opening. She looked up, expecting Revan, but the scantily clad female Twi'lek that stepped into the room was a surprise. She was young; Bastila guessed that the girl was near her own age.

The Twi'lek bowed low, carrying a tray. "Forgive the intrusion, my Lady. My name is Rylla. Lord Revan requested that I should attend to you, if you need anything."

Bastila stood and moved over to settle down on the sofa. "I'm Bastila; it's nice to meet you."

Rylla sat the tray of food on the small table by the sofa and looked up, a shy smile on her face.

Bastila noticed the metallic collar against the golden yellow skin of the girl's neck, and swallowed hard as the one around her own neck suddenly felt tighter. "I wasn't aware that Lord Revan kept slaves."

The Twi'lek's amber eyes widened, "Oh, no. He doesn't." Her tone became sad. "I am not owned by Lord Revan. My Master is Admiral Narith, of the dreadnaught Talon, which is docked here."

Bastila's eyebrow rose, "I'm sorry, I thought you said that Revan had sent you."

Rylla nodded, "He did." She took a deep breath, "My Master seems intent on pleasing his own Master, so he gives me to Lord Revan, to use as he wishes while the Talon is here."

Bastila felt her mouth go dry as she looked at the girl. Clearing her throat, she tried to sound convincingly unconcerned. "Oh? What does Revan have you do for him?"

Rylla's yellow cheeks turned almost bright orange as she blushed, "Usually very little. He asks me to deliver messages or to fetch things for him. Today he asked that I come here to see if you needed anything."

Nodding, Bastila regarded the Twi'lek. "So Revan has never…"

The girl shook her head firmly, causing her lekku to sway. "No. Never." There was a hint of disappointment in Rylla's voice.

"I see. So what do you think of him?"

"I don't know him very well. I know he can be brutal and fierce. He is a strong leader, and that is necessary. He demands obedience and has little tolerance for failure. But he doesn't abuse his power."

"You don't think he abuses his power?" Bastila asked with a snort of contempt.

"No, I don't. He has always treated me fairly. I would be glad to have him as my Master."

Bastila took a moment to look at the tray of food. It was a light arrangement of various fruits, cheeses, and fresh bread. Looking over at Rylla, she considered the girl's words. She did present an interesting perspective on the Sith Lord. "Why's that? What is your Master like?"

"My Master is a cruel and wretched man. He has a dreadfully sour temper. I think he beats me just for something to do, that or he forces himself on me. He's worse when he gets drunk, which he does often."

Bastila felt the blood drain from her face, and she regretted not being able to help the girl. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean…"

Rylla smiled softly, "It's alright. He's actually not as bad as my first Master. I was born a slave, owned by a Hutt."

Revan stepped through the door into his quarters and was greeted by the sight of Bastila and Rylla sitting together, chatting. They both looked up at him as he entered the room. The pair blushed and glanced at each other, like children caught in the act of some great mischief. He smirked and assumed that he had been the topic of their conversation.

Rylla stood and approached him, dropping to her knees in front of him. "My Lord."

He shook his head, "Rylla, you know what I've told you. Stand up, child."

She stood, keeping her eyes lowered. "Forgive me, Master."

He placed a hand lightly on her shoulder and his voice was calm. "Hush, I am not your master, and I will not have you groveling at my feet. Admiral Narith, however, would be a different story."

Rylla glanced up, "My Master has displeased you, Lord?"

Revan sighed, "Immensely, and for many reasons. But you needn't concern yourself with that. He was unhappy after he left me, so he's likely on his way to getting drunk."

Revan glanced over at Bastila, who had regained her composure and was watching him closely. The Twi'lek swallowed hard, and he caught the fear in her deep amber eyes.

Her shoulders sagged, "I should go. Master will be wanting…"

"No, you will stay Rylla. I don't particularly care what your master wants. His previous order still stands."

She blinked up at him. "My Lord? I don't understand."

Revan smiled, "He instructed you to obey my orders did he not?"

She blushed, "Yes, my master said I was to attend to your needs."

"As I recall, I asked you to see to the comfort and well being of my guest." He nodded toward Bastila. "That is a very intensive occupation, so I don't expect you to be free of your duties to me until…" he spread his hands, "maybe sometime tomorrow morning?"

Looking up at Revan, there was a new glimmer of hope in her eyes. "My Master should be sober by then."

"For his sake, I should hope so. Until then, I expect you to keep Bastila company."

Rylla's lekku nearly twitched with joy. "Thank you, my Lord."

He nodded and crossed the room to his desk. Keying in a few coded commands, he pulled a few data chips out of the small compartment that opened. Tucking them into his pockets, he relocked the compartment and turned back to the two girls.

"You're welcome, Rylla, and I do apologize if I interrupted anything." He focused his gaze on Bastila. "I trust Rylla is capable of seeing to anything you need, Bastila. However, is there anything specific you require while I'm here?"

"No, thank you, Revan. I do not need anything from you."

Revan caught the haughty tilt of her head as her grey eyes studied him coldly. He tensed, stung by her words. He nodded, bowed gracefully, and turned toward the door.

"Very well, I shall leave you ladies to your idle gossip."

Sleep had eluded him once again. Revan let his mind drift and wander. Here, on the quiet observation deck with its massive view-ports looking out on countless stars, Revan sought to calm the chaotic storm of his own thoughts. His internal clock told him it was nearly mid-morning, but in the never-ending dark of space, morning was a relative term.

His eyes were closed, but the low hiss of the doors opening and closing pricked at his awareness. He caught the soft footsteps that came to a stop at a respectful distance from him. He opened his eyes and saw the Twi'lek standing before him. He could see her body trembling.

"Forgive me, my Lord, I didn't mean to disturb you." Her voice shook and was barely above a whisper.

He motioned to her, "Come here, Rylla."

She approached, bowing low as she stopped only three feet from him. He stepped closer and gently placed his hand under her chin, making her look up at him. He noticed the numerous bruises that spread over her skin.

"What happened?"

She closed her eyes, choking back a sob. "Master was still… very drunk when I returned. He was very angry that I… kept him waiting."

"I see." Revan stepped back, letting her go. "Go now, keep Bastila company."

She nodded and left the room. Revan watched her go, one hand tightening into a fist. He crossed the observation deck to the communication console and keyed in a command. A moment later the holographic image of Admiral Narith appeared.

"Lord Revan," Narith slurred, "What can I do for you?"

Revan snarled in disgust. "Admiral, your presence is required in the command center on the Star Forge. There are matters which I need to discuss with you, immediately."

The Admiral bowed and nearly fell over. "Yes, Lord, right away."

Revan studied the many displays that lit up the command center of the Star Forge as he waited for Admiral Narith. The door behind him finally opened and he heard the shuffling steps as the drunken officer staggered toward him. Revan's eyes narrowed and his left hand shifted to rest on the lightsaber at his belt.

"Narith, your continued incompetence has exhausted my patience. I cannot allow such an inept child to remain in command of one of my dreadnaughts."

"B…but you said you gave me another chance," the officer stammered.

"Indeed, and it seems you've managed to throw away that chance as well." Revan's right hand slipped beneath his cloak to pull a vicious looking whip from its place on the back of his belt. "It has been a very long time since I've had an occasion to use this. I must thank you for giving me the opportunity to use it again."

Revan flicked his wrist and the whip unfurled with a sharp crack. Admiral Narith's eyes widened and he backed up a step.

"You can't do this!" He shrieked.

Revan growled. "Admiral Narith, in your pathetic state have you truly forgotten who I am?"

The whip lashed out and wrapped around Narith's leg. Revan jerked the whip back to himself and the Admiral crashed to the floor with a thud as his leg was pulled out from under him.

"No, Lord Revan, but p…please, c… can't we be reasonable about this?"

Revan shook his head, "I am afraid you are in no position to negotiate. Now, stand up."

Narith stood up shakily. Panic fully gripped his mind and he tried to run. Revan gestured with his left hand and the Admiral was locked in a stasis field. Revan circled around him, a sneer forming on his face. In a matter of minutes, Narith's uniform was shredded and soaked with blood from the sharp barbs embedded in the last few inches of the Dark Lord's whip. Revan took a deep breath and slowly re-coiled the whip and returned it to his belt.

The stasis field vanished and the officer collapsed the floor, whimpering and crying in pain. Narith's control over his own body vanished and he passed out in a soiled, wretched heap. Revan signaled the guards who stood at the door. They stepped forward and bowed. Revan waved one hand at the wilted officer.

"Take this putrid, pusillanimous pile of bantha fodder and throw him out the nearest airlock."

Revan strode into his quarters and stopped. Bastila and Rylla were seated at opposite sides of his Dejarik table, in deep concentration. He smiled softly, his eyes drawn to Bastila. He noticed her hair was pulled back in two short pony tails which exposed and accentuated the lines of her neck. Revan's eyes followed the graceful arch of Bastila's neck as she studied the board in front of her. He allowed his gaze to flicker upward to her face, noticing the way her lips were pursed in concentration. Reluctantly, he cleared his throat and stepped forward.

"Who's winning?"

They both flinched at the sound of his voice, and looked up. Neither had noticed him come in. He chuckled and settled down on the sofa.

"I think she is, my Lord." Rylla nodded to Bastila. "I'm still not very good at the game."

Revan smirked, "I suppose I'll need to give you a few more lessons, then?"

Rylla blushed lightly, "My Lord, you have so much to do already, I wouldn't want to take up your time."

He glanced at Bastila, her grey eyes watching him closely. A grin spread across his lips. "Oh, I'm sure I can find the time one of these nights."

He saw Bastila stiffen uncomfortably. Standing back up, he motioned to Rylla. "I actually did come here to speak to you, Rylla."

She stepped over to him and bowed, "Yes, my Lord?"

"Well, it seems your Master has expired."

She blinked, "Oh?"

Revan nodded. "Strange really, but apparently in his drunken stupor, Admiral Narith somehow managed to stumble out an airlock."

She looked down, "But that would mean…"

"It means you now belong to me, yes."

Rylla rushed forward and hugged him. Looking over Rylla's head, Revan watched Bastila as he slipped one arm around the girl, returning the embrace gently. His smile grew as the Jedi tensed and turned away, her cheeks reddening.

"Thank you, Master." Rylla was beaming with joy.

"Of course."

"Is there anything you need, Master?" Her eyes sparkled with hopeful expectation.

Revan lowered his voice, but knew that Bastila would still be able to hear him. "Not at the moment, we can discuss matters later, privately. I have other things I need to attend to. For now, you're free to stay with Bastila, finish your Dejarik game."

He stepped away from Rylla, and turned to Bastila. "I apologize for interrupting. If you'll excuse me, I'll be on my way."

"I don't care what time it is, or where he's at you incorrigible hunk of scrap metal. You find Revan and take me to him, now." Bastila's grey eyes flashed angrily as she faced the rust colored droid.

"Statement: The Master informed me that he would not be on the Star Forge until mid-day."

Crossing her arms over her chest, Bastila's temper had been simmering slowly all night, and this news only infuriated her even more.

"Fine. As soon as he sets foot back on the Star Forge, I expect to be notified and I want to see him."

"Condescending answer: Of course, I will inform the Master that his pet Jedi has politely requested his immediate attention the instant he returns."

Her nostrils flared and her jaws tightened as her anger grew. Miserable, wretched droid. The indignation sparked by HK's words only darkened her mood. Revan's pet Jedi, indeed. Turning, Bastila stepped back into the room and scowled. His quarters. The thought further frustrated her. He had left her in his quarters for five days, and she still hadn't been able to get rid of the horrible restraint collar. The lack of the Force's soothing presence was getting to her. She felt her control weakening, and she refused to give him that satisfaction.

Dark Lord of the Sith or not, she was not about to tolerate him treating her like some mindless pet or a new toy to be discarded when he got bored. As soon as he was back on the Star Forge, she intended to see that things changed.

Revan slipped out of the Sith fighter as its engines gave off one last whine as they shut down. He was pleased that the training exercises with the first wave of fighter pilots had gone well. Only two had actually hit his fighter. He knew they would rarely be fighting a pilot like him, and had chosen not to hold that against them.

The long hours spent training had improved his mood as well. It had been several years since he'd actively flown a fighter in combat, and he was happy that his reflexes hadn't been dimmed by time. Revan straightened his cloak, and headed toward the elevator off the hangar deck. His com link beeped as the elevator doors closed.

"Yes?"

"Statement: Master, the female Jedi is demanding to see you. Amused observation: She appears to be rather upset."

Revan chuckled, "I'm sure she is. I'll be on the observation deck in about three minutes. Take her the long way. The walk will do her good."

"Observation: Perhaps she is malfunctioning. I could just blast her for you, Master. It would save you the trouble of listening to her emotional, irrational ranting."

Revan sighed. "No, HK. If I wanted her dead, I would have already killed her myself. Just bring her to me, and I'll deal with her."

"Disappointed answer: As you wish, Master. I just don't see why you're so concerned about the Jedi."

Revan made his way to the observation deck using shortcuts that only he knew. He grinned to himself as he imagined Bastila's reasons for wanting to see him. He heard the door slide open behind him as he leaned against the railing along the upper catwalk. Revan noticed that HK stopped just inside the door, leaving him to deal with the obviously irate Jedi storming towards him.

Bastila came to a stop about six feet from him. He turned to face her. Her grey eyes sparkled with simmering anger. Revan smiled as he noticed she'd left her hair loose again.

"I understand you wanted to see me?"

"HK told me you weren't on the Star Forge. Where have you been?" Her hands rested on her hips and Revan caught the stubborn gleam in her eyes.

He shrugged and turned his back to her, looking out at the stars. "Bastila, you are my guest. However that does not mean I am required to tell you my whereabouts at any given moment. What I do with my time is my business." He glanced over his shoulder and saw her watching him. "Besides, I doubt you'd really want to know what I was doing."

She scowled at him. "I would like to request new accommodations."

He turned back to her, "My quarters are not adequate?"

"I don't like the room, and after being stuck there alone for nearly a week, I'm sick of it. You have absolutely horrible taste in furnishings."

He saw the fierce defiance in her stance, and he stepped closer. "I do apologize, Bastila. I was not made aware that you required my presence for any reason. I was merely respecting your wishes for privacy. Contrary to what you might believe, I do have many things needing my attention. My empire doesn't run itself. There are dark Jedi, soldiers, pilots, and officers that require training. At least one of my ships is in need of a new commanding officer. There are matters of supplies and trade that need to be dealt with. Bastila, you are my guest, and I will listen to your requests. However, your requests simply cannot be my top priority."

She took two steps backward as he had moved closer. She tilted her head slightly to meet his gaze. "I will not spend another day in that room, so you find someplace else for me to stay."

Revan bristled at the imperious tone in her voice. He growled, and took another step toward her. Bastila moved back, but was stopped by the thick transparisteel view-port. He was easily six inches taller, and as he pressed closer, she was forced to look up at him. He placed his hands on either side of her shoulders, trapping her against the view-port.

His voice was low and menacing as he looked down at her. "Do not presume, Padawan, that my hospitality grants you the right to make demands. I could just as easily kill you as not. However, if you truly insist on testing my patience, I will be happy to revoke your status as my guest and throw you in the brig."

He saw her tense, and she shoved his left arm out of her way, quickly distancing herself from him. He whirled around, feeling the power of the Star Forge flow around him. The whispers eagerly pushed against his mind, begging him to draw on its dark energies. She dares to challenge you. Destroy her. Bastila stood defiantly as she faced him. Even without her lightsaber, he knew Jedi were capable fighters.

"If you want to kill me, Revan, go ahead!" Her fury blazed in her storm grey eyes, "It would be preferable to being slowly driven insane by this damnable collar, and the Star Forge, and you. Go ahead, kill me!"

The darkness closed in around him, seeking to break through the walls of his self-control. The Star Forge's power surrounded him, encouraging him to use it. Revan's jaws clenched tight and his fingers curled into fists as he glared at her. He raised his right hand and sparks of lightning danced at his fingertips. Bastila's eyes widened and she took a step back.

The Sith Lord hurled the ball of lightning at her, but at the last second its course was altered. The lightning slammed into the large durasteel support frame beside her as a deeper part of him fought to regain control. The lightning missed her, but was still close enough that she winced.

"HK-47, get her out of here, now!" Revan turned away from her, his eyes closed as he struggled to block out the Star Forge's influence.

The droid ushered Bastila out and as the door closed behind them, Revan sank to his knees, shaking. He heard the Star Forge's laughter rippling through his mind and growled. "Stay out of my head!" The darkness retreated only far enough to hover at the very edge of his mind, waiting for another chance break him.

Bastila sat on the sofa in Revan's quarters, her feet tucked up under her. She took several deep breaths as she tried to calm herself. She was still trembling. The realization of how close she had come to provoking Revan into killing her hit hard.

She glanced up at the large painting of a Greater Krayt Dragon that covered a large portion of the wall above Revan's bed. "I suppose it was a mistake to go poking at a sleeping Krayt in his own lair."

Bastila was just beginning to relax when the door slid open. She tensed as Revan stepped through the door. She started to stand, but caught the casual wave of his hand and felt herself being pushed back on the sofa. The memory of their last encounter was still seared into her mind; she considered it better not to object.

He crossed the room silently, and she watched as he unfastened his cloak. He draped the cloak over the chair by the desk. He pulled off his gloves and the mask, laying them on the desk. Bastila felt her breath catch in her chest. He removed his outer armor and dropped it on top of his cloak. He turned around and Bastila found herself caught in his gaze.

He walked toward her, settling himself down in the chair across from her. She realized she had never seen him without his mask, and it was disconcerting to look at him now. She had been aware of the typical tell-tale signs of the dark side and how it affected people. Bastila blinked and then stared at him, realizing that he looked nothing like the Sith Lord she expected to see. His eyes were a surprisingly clear deep blue, and for a moment she was reminded of the fathomless oceans she'd seen on a visit to Manaan. She swallowed hard, realizing it would be easy to lose herself in those sapphire eyes.

Revan turned his head slightly, casually glancing around the room. Bastila noticed that a few strands of his dark brown hair fell forward, just lightly eclipsing the outer edge of his left eye and resting lightly on his cheek. His sharp cheekbones gave him a rather severe look. Her eyes were drawn to the fullness of his lips and she tried to imagine him smiling. Bastila took a deep breath and felt herself blush as he looked back at her and she realized she had been staring at him. She looked away.

He chuckled, and she looked over at him. The amused smile that played across his lips was completely disarming. She caught the slight movement as his left eyebrow arched upwards, part of it disappearing behind the unruly hair.

"Well?"

She blinked, "What?"

The smile on his face shifted to a confident smirk. "As long as you've been staring at me, I assumed you might have some opinion on what you see."

Bastila felt her cheeks burning and turned away from him. "What do you want, anyway?"

He laughed and his smile grew. "I wasn't aware that I needed a reason to come to my own quarters."

"You've been fine not showing up for the last five days, and considering that you tried to kill me…" She glanced back at him, and was met by his smug smirk. Force, if he's not the most infuriating man.

Revan reached up and ran his fingers through his hair, brushing the strands back into place, and nodded, "True. Actually, I came to apologize for that, and for disregarding your request. Whenever you're ready, HK-47 will escort you to your new accommodations."

Bastila's grey eyes narrowed suspiciously as she looked at him. "Oh? Some dusty corner of the brig for defying you?"

He sighed and she saw his eyes darken and the corners of his mouth twitched into a frown. "Would you rather stay in the brig?"

"No, thank you. I should go." She took a deep breath and turned toward the door.

He stood, "If the accommodations are not to your liking, let me know. I trust you can find your way out."

She glanced back at him as she stepped out of his quarters and caught just a glimpse of his broad, muscular back as he pulled off his shirt before the door closed. She shook herself hard and followed the droid as he moved off down the corridor. Bastila are you out of your mind? You're a Jedi, he's a Sith Lord. Pull yourself together!