The beach on Ember Island's north side was filled with day-to-day vacationers and tourists. Taran and Ahsoka were basking in the sun, Taran wearing red trunks while Ahsoka had on a black two-piece bikini. Occasionally a passerby would look at Taran and realize who he was, but they respectfully left him to his privacy. Ahsoka took the time to notice all the beachgoers around them, happy and relaxed faces all around.

"Everything okay?" said Taran, noticing her look.

"Here, you kind of forget there's a war going on,"said Ahsoka. Taran understood her meaning. In Coruscant and other worlds, the war had seized the public to the point where they had rarely seen smiling faces. Here before them was a a rare example of a planet that had been touched by the war, but wasn't letting it dictate their lives.

"Can every world really get like this when it's all over?" she asked. Taran thought about her words, pondering them for a few seconds before he answered.

"It might take a long time to heal, but in the end, life will continue, even if it's just a fragment of it was before," said Taran. He looked out over to the water, his eyes fixed on a spot. Ahsoka saw he was looking in one certain direction and turned her head to what he was looking at.

Near the shoreline was a male of Fire Nation origin with golden eyes, and beside him was a orange Twi'lek woman. Playing in the sand in front of them was a half-Human/half-Twi'lek boy with pale orange skin, his lekku slightly shorter and smaller than one for a boy his age. He had the man's golden eyes and was happily building a sand castle, failing to do so due to the water progressing and receding tide. The family of three looked happy, and others around paid them no mind or stared with curiosity or question at them. Taran's hand gently took Ahsoka's hand, lacing his fingers with hers. She squeezed his hand as she smiled at the sight.

They were fully aware of the Humanocentric politics and individuals who saw Humans as superior to other species, and who heavily saw hybrid children as a disgrace and an abomination, but they were a small minority. On Elementia, the thing was near unheard of. Taran had explained this to her before, Elementians viewing all living beings no matter what form or species the same. As such, inter-species relationships were present in the society.

"Can Humans and Togruta have children?" said Ahsoka. Taran didn't know. Though when it came to sex they stayed safe in case it was possible, they still didn't know. Human/Togruta pairings were rare, and children from these pairings weren't always recorded. In the long and short of it, no one knew.

"I'm not sure, but maybe," said Taran. "I'd like to see if we can one day." Ahsoka smiled, kissing him softly before laying her head on his shoulder as they looked out to the blue ocean before them.

"Ahsoka, there's something I need your help with, but it's dangerous," said Taran.

"What is it?" said Ahsoka.

"It's about the power inside me. I need to learn how to control it, but I don't want to risk hurting you," said Taran.

"You won't," said Ahsoka.

"How do you know?" said Taran.

"Because I know you," said Ahsoka.

His eyes flashed between yellow and green as he willed himself to tap into the energy.

"Keep focusing," said Ahsoka, a few in front of him. .

"I'm trying," said Taran, closing his eyes in concentration. A few droplets of sweat ran down his face as he tried to focus on getting into the state.

"Put every negative emotion you have into it," said Ahsoka. They were outside their beach house, still in their swimwear, in a secluded spot that led to a hidden waterfall cove along the path behind them. Taran focused his anger, fear, and rage to try and trigger it. However, it wasn't working well enough. He had been able to enter it once before, but it only lasted a few seconds before he went back to normal. Ahsoka knew drastic measures had to be taken. She walked up to Taran and slapped him. The sound resonated from the spot.

"Ahsoka?" said Taran, holding his cheek. She slapped the other one.

"Get angry," said Ahsoka. She hit him again, seeing the desired effect happen. Slowly, his eyes were morphing to yellow. One more slap from her turned them completely. He was in it. His expression darkened at her, his eyes glaring menacingly.

"Can your hear me Taran?" she asked.

"Yes," said Taran, his voice slightly more menacing than its usual tone. He moved towards her, her moving back slightly before she stood her ground. Taran stopped right in front of her. His hands came up until they gripped her shoulders. He continued glaring at her until a small smile began to form.

"That was a little uncalled for," said Taran.

"Had to be done," said Ahsoka. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath before he opened them again, green eyes.

"Want to take a break?" she asked.

"Yes please. Didn't mean to alarm you when I grabbed you like that, it was all I could do to not lose control," said Taran, sitting on the soft grass beneath them, Ahsoka following him and sitting in front of him

"At least we know how to trigger it. A bit more practice and you can go in and out at will," said Ahsoka.

"Let's hope I don't have to use it again," said Taran. "For now, control is the most important thing."

"I've always wondered, aren't you closest to the dark side when you go into that state?" Ahsoka asked.

"I am, but ultimately the choice of whether I want go down that path or not is entirely up to me. Although I will regret the actions I take when in there, I no that deep down it's not truly who I am. Actually, it's having this power that makes me wonder whether the light and dark side are as separate as the seem, or are they two sides of the same coin?" said Taran.

"It's saying things like that they made me remember how much you've grown up," said Ahsoka. "In my mind I still see the same boy who used to fly around in an air scooter and used his waterbending to make snowmen." Taran smiled.

"Let's try again," said Taran, standing up.

(Four days later)

After four days of doing this training, Taran was able to gain more control over his power, though total control was still slightly beyond his grasp. It definitely helped to have Ahsoka help coach him through it. Over the past four days, they continued to bond even more so than ever before. It felt so right to be able to hold each other and kiss without the fear of discovery. Despite their hormones and desire, they didn't have sex every chance they got, rather taking the time to cuddle or other bonding activities. However, this night, they succumbed to their desire.

Taran and Ahsoka lay gasping for breath, him on top of her, after another thrilling night of passion. Taran lay his head on top of her breasts, his breath tickling them as he tried to regain his breath. Ahsoka was the same way, her head laid back on the pillows as she held him to her. Once he felt he could move on his own will, he moved up to kiss her warmly. She returned, their lips staying in place for a few seconds before they pulled back.

"This past week has been indescribable, almost like a dream," said Ahsoka.

"If it is, I don't want to wake up," said Taran.

"That was extremely corny, but I like it anyway," said Ahsoka, the two laughing softly. Taran rolled onto his side as Ahsoka turned to face him. He used two of his fingers to stroke up and down her lekku, having her sigh from the care and good feelings that went through her body from the pleasurable sensations

"Three days left," said Taran.

"Something on your mind?" said Ahsoka.

"I'm going to have to tell the Council when I get back," said Taran. Ahsoka looked into his eyes.

"Are you sure?" she asked.

"I am. I'm tired of hiding us behind closed doors, even if it costs me being a Jedi," said Taran.

"I know how much being a Jedi means to you," said Ahsoka.

"And I know you did too, but you gave it up to live your life," he said, moving up to her montrals. "Did you regret leaving the Order?"

"Only because it kept me away from all of you, and all the friends I made. There was also more I could have learned about the Force, but other than that, I don't view it as a mistake," said Ahsoka.

"If there was anyway you could get back in, would you?" said Taran. Ahsoka thought longer about it.

"I don't know," she said. They stayed silent, him stroking her lekku now. Her hand came up to his cheek, rubbing it slightly.

"On the ninth day, there's one more thing I have to do," he said. "Which I should have done immediately, but there wasn't time."

"What is it?" said Ahsoka.

"I have to check on Kara, like Ceran wanted me to," said Taran. Ahsoka nodded, understanding.

"There's also one more thing we have to do as well," said Ahsoka.

(Republic City)

The sprawl of Republic City was characterized with traffic similar to Coruscant in the sky. In the harbor, the statue of Aang still stood proudly in the harbor. Taran and Ahsoka were walking through the apartment areas that lines the streets.

"This is the address," said Taran. The area they were in wasn't a rough area, but it wasn't the ritzy area, just comfortably middle class. Taran and Ahsoka climbed up to the apartment, going up the staircases inside the building. A few flights later they came up to her apartment number. It was a green door with the number on the outside.

Taran took a deep breath, calming his senses. He knocked on the door, waiting for her to answer. Ten seconds passed before they heard someone unlocking the door and it slid open. She had amber eyes, but dark skin attributed to the Water Tribe. Her hair was dark-brown and let down. She was wearing a grey robe that hid her figure. When she saw, her eyes shot open.

"Ceran?" she said softly.

Taran shook his head. "No, I'm Taran, his brother." Her eyes dimmed a little.

"I'm guessing you heard what happened?" said Taran.

"I know he died, but how?" she asked.

"Can we talk inside?" said Taran. She nodded

They came out three hours later.

"Let me know if there's absolutely anything you need," said Taran.

"Thank you Taran, and you too Ahsoka," said Kara. The two girls hugged before they quietly left.

"I can't believe it," said Ahsoka. "Did he know?"

"I doubt it. There's no telling how much stress she's under in her condition," said Taran.

"Should anyone else know?" said Ahsoka.

"I think it should be safer that only we should know," said Taran. "Maybe Long, but no one else." Ahsoka nodded.

Kura Tano was coming back from the hunt with a group. Her piece of the akul beast, the flank, was reward after they had hunted. She had the piece slung in a leather bag on her back as she walked back through town to her house.

"Good kill today Kura?" said a woman caring for her children.

"Yes, but we did burn off quite a few calories chasing it down," said Kura. Kura kept making her way back home, finally coming to a stop at her house. She out the pack down and began to unlock the door. She didn't notice the two shadows emerge from her left.

"Mom." Her breath caught in her throat as she recognized the voice. She turned to her left to see her daughter standing a few feet away. Taran stood next to her, holding her hand. Taran and her were in their original Jedi outfits.

"Ahsoka!" said Kura. She immediately went over, stopping just short of her daughter, still not believing that she was in front of her before the two women threw their arms around each other. They hugged, tears slowly flowing out of both women's eyes.

"I'm so glad you're safe," said Kura. She looked over to Taran. "Thank you so much Taran." Taran smiled.

"I did make a promise," said Taran. "I always keep them."

"Come in, I'm about to make dinner. We brought down an akul today," said Kura.

"My favorite," said Ahsoka.

"Have you ever had akul before Taran?"

"Well I did kill one last time I was here," said Taran, rubbing the back of his head.

"Wait, you mean that dead akul another village found the day after you left was from you?" said Kura, astonished. Taran grinned, rubbing his head in embarrassment.

"Hmm, well I guess I can't be too surprised," said Kura, laughing a little.

"That was delicious Mom," said Ahsoka.

"Thanks. I had some thimiar meat, but I know it makes you gassy," said Kura.

"Mom!" Ahsoka exclaimed, embarrassed.

"Sorry, just being honest," said Kura.

"Don't worry, I found that out the hard way," said Taran. Ahsoka punched him in the shoulder, Taran laughing as Ahsoka gave him her death glare. Kura smiled, amused at the two of them.

"So, what's next for you two?" she asked.

"Well, I have to go back to the Council tomorrow," said Taran, "then I have to tell them everything, including about us."

"And the outcome?"

"I'll get some kind of disciplinary action but be allowed to remain in the Order, or they just kick me out altogether," said Taran.

"So if they kick you out?" said Kura.

"I-we'll live on Elementia," said Taran. "I'm still the Avatar, and my first duty is to the people." Kura nodded.

"And if you can still stay?" said Kura. Taran looked down.

"I...still don't know," said Taran.

Kura put her hand on top of his. "I'm sure you'll know what to do when the time comes. Just follow your heart."

Taran smiled. "Now I know where Ahsoka gets it from."

"Just take the night to think it over," said Kura. Taran nodded.

Barriss Offee sat huddled in the corner of her prison cell. Her knees were pulled up to her face. She was deep in thought as she brooded over the many thoughts in her head. As she brooded, she felt a familiar presence from outside her cell. She looked up to see Ahsoka standing in front of her cell block, looking down on her.

"Hello Barriss," said Ahsoka. Barriss shifted her gaze away.

"You're alive," said Barriss. "I'm guessing Taran is here too?" Ahsoka nodded.

"Why are you here?" said Barriss.

"I came to see you," said Ahsoka.

"What for?" said Barriss.

"I needed to know," said Ahsoka, kneeling down onto her knees to get at eye level.

"Oh," said Barriss, refusing still to meet her gaze.

"Why did you do it?" said Ahsoka. Barriss did not answer.

"You were my friend, probably one of my dearest. Why, after all we went through, would you try and do that to me, to everyone?" said Ahsoka.

"I had to get them to see reason," said Barriss said simply.

"By killing innocent people? Having a wife let her husband get killed? Framing me? What could be so reasonable to let you have a clear conscience about this?" said Ahsoka. Barriss still did not answer, and was making no movement to.

"I'm not here to chastise you. I just wanted to let you know I was okay. Taran and I are going to Council now," said Ahsoka.

"What for?" said Barriss.

"I'm sure you've figured out what we are," said Ahsoka, though they had never outright told her.

"So you've decided to come out then?" aid Barriss. Ahsoka nodded.

"Then I wish you two all the best. Maybe this is the best way for you to get out of the Order while you still can," said Barriss.

"What are you talking about?" said Ahsoka.

"Something's going to happen. The entire Order is in terrible danger. Don't trust those closest to you," said Barriss.

"You mean like what you did?" said Ahsoka. Again, Barriss did not answer. Ahsoka stood up, making to leave.

"I still can't forgive you for what you did, but I don't hate you," said Ahsoka, walking away. Barriss watched her leave before her eyes went back to the wall.

Taran stood at the end of the hall, waiting for Ahsoka.

"You okay?" he asked.

"Yes, just needed to get that off my chest," said Ahsoka.

"You ready?" said Taran. Ahsoka nodded.

Climbing up the stairs back to the Temple was the longest climb ever. Taran felt his heart going nuts as they took the climb. His hands were clenched, including the one holding her hand. His palms were sweating as well. Ahsoka noticed this.

"It'll be fine," she said to reassure him. He nodded, though the feeling still didn't go away. Up ahead, they finally made it. Gate Master Jurokk hailed them in.

"Taran, the Council is expecting you, and it's good to see you again Ahsoka," said Jurokk.

"It's good to see you as well Master Jurokk," said Ahsoka. "Am I permitted to accompany Taran inside?"

"You may," said Jurokk. They went past him into the Temple complex. To Ahsoka, it was like she was coming back home. She saw Jedi of various ranks walking through the first level. She missed it all, practicing near the fountain, going to the library to study, helping younglings use the Force. She wished they would run into Bruck, Tia, Katooni, Petro, Zatt, Ganodi, Byph and Gungi on the way there, but sadly that didn't happen.

They stopped right outside the Council entrance. Taran was steadily breathing hard. His hands were clenched tight as an unending aura of fear resonated through him. Ahsoka let go of his hand and turned to face him.

"Relax," she said softly. Her hands went to his chest. "It's going to be okay. I'll be right there by your side. You're not doing this alone." She softly kissed him again. He took a deep breath, closing his eyes. When he opened, a determined look was in them. She got out of the way, stepping to his side. He clasped her hand with his. He opened the door to the council chamber. Inside were Master Yoda, Plo Koon, Mace Windu, Saesee Tiin, Kit Fisto, Agen Kolar, Shaak Ti, and Stass Allie.

"Enter may you, Taran Cyneran and Ahsoka Tano," said Yoda. The two walked in until they stood at the center.

"Tell us everything, from the beginning, and be as clear-cut and honest as you can," said Saesee Tiin.

When they were finished, the council room was dead quiet. The Jedi Masters around them were in thought. Windu spoke first.

"As you do know, this is a breach of the Council's policy," said Mace.

"I understand," said Taran.

"Cyneran, know you why the rule was placed, do you not?" said Yoda.

"To forgo all attachments, and to ensure that none fell to the dark side in case their loved one were killed," said Taran.

"And did you not react violently twice from your telling of the events when she was in danger," said Agen Kolar.

"Yes," said Taran.

"Not to mention how your actions also endangered the lives of two padawans and four younglings, as well as the senator from Onderon and four Mandalorian youths," said Shaak Ti.

"In his defense, all who accompanied him did so of their own will," said Plo.

"Thank you Master Plo," Taran thought.

"And his actions did not only rescue Ahsoka, but also more than 800 prisoners from the Fortress," said Fisto.

"I know what I did was wrong, and I'm not going to try and justify everything I did. I did it because if there was a chance my visions were right, I couldn't let Ahsoka die, not when I had a chance to save her," said Taran.

"Deliberate on this, we will. Decide what, the action to undertake, we will," said Yoda.

"Until then, you are to stay in the Temple at all times. Ahsoka, do you have anywhere you can stay at?" said Mace.

"I can stay at Senator Amidala's apartment, if she allows it," said Ahsoka.

"Very well. Taran, you may escort her there, but make sure that you are back immediately after. We will have this settled by tomorrow morning, and you are allowed to come if it seems fit. You are both dismissed," said Mace. The two bowed respectfully before they left. Taran closed the door behind them.

Taran and Ahsoka had reached the hangar of the Temple. As they walked in, a series of beep and the sound of an astromech droid had them turn to see a familiar green droid hurriedly carting towards them.

"R3!" said Taran. He knelt down, hugging the little droid. Ahsoka also knelt down, rubbing the droid's dome.

"I owe you so much," said Taran. The little droid happily beeped, spinning his head to their enjoyment.

"I can't thank you enough R3," said Ahsoka.

"Taran! Ahsoka!" said multiple voices behind them. They both turned around to see the seven familiar faces they all wanted. The five younglings ran over to them, hugging them both fiercely whilst Bruck and Tia came forward as well.

"I'm so glad you're both okay," said Katooni.

"What happened when you were on Elementia?" said Petro.

"What happened with the Council?" said Ganodi. Byph and Gungi both asked a question in their native language.

"Whoa, one at a time," said Ahsoka, laughing a little. They were able to answer all their questions, leaving out the more private details.

"So you don't know then?" said Bruck.

"No, I will tomorrow though," said Taran.

"Is there nothing we can do to help them change their mind?" said Petro.

"I'm afraid not," said Taran. "But it'll be okay."

"What are you doing now?" said Tia.

"I'm taking Ahsoka over to Senator Amidala's and then coming back," said Taran.

"I wish we could stay and talk though," said Ahsoka. "You all be good. Hopefully I can see you all tomorrow."

"We will," all five said.

"We'll be waiting till then," said Bruck.

"I still can't thank you all enough, for everything," said Ahsoka.

"We'd do anything for our friends Ahsoka. Always remember that," said Tia. Ahsoka smiled, the two old friends hugging.

"It's so good to see you safe and sound Ahsoka," said Padme, hugging Ahsoka.

"It's good to see you too Padme," said Ahsoka, hugging back the senator of Naboo.

"It's no problem staying here with me. You can stay as long as you want," said Padme.

"Thank you Padme," said Ahsoka.

"Have you heard from Anakin or Obi-Wan?" said Padme.

"We had an update that they're at Neivaan, but that's all we know so far," said Taran.

"Okay. I'm sure they're fine," said Padme.

"When those two are together, things usually are alright. Well I'll leave you two ladies alone for the night," said Taran.

"I wish you didn't have to go," said Ahsoka.

"I know, but it's only till tomorrow," said Taran. They both lightly kissed, gazing longingly at each other before Taran turned and went back to the elevator, opening the door and closing it, the elevator going back down to the ground floor.

"You two seem happier now. Anything happen on Elementia I should know about?" said Padme. Ahsoka blushed, embarrassed a little.

"I won't pry into it," said Padme, smiling warmly, "make yourself at home."

"Will you need anything Ms. Tano?" said C-3PO, reappearing from the kitchen and handing Padme a cup of tea.

"No thank you 3PO," said Ahsoka. "How are you feeling Padme?"

"About what?" said Padme. Ahsoka's eyes drifted down to her stomach.

"Oh." said Padme, setting down her tea. "We have a lot to talk about."