From Starkiller to Starbird

by BH52

Foundling Galen Marek walks the path of a Jedi and Mandalorian. (also published on AO3) Note: OP Galen Marek

2. Coming to the temple

4 years after Galen's parents' death.

Exterior: Tatooine, Mos Espa, outskirts.

As he was in the midst of fighting a familiar dark warrior, Qui-Gon Jinn's emerald blade had been parried, leaving an opening.

But a lethal strike from the Zabrak was prevented by a yellow blast of electric judgement knocking Maul off his feet as others joined the fight.

Caught off-guard, Maul and Qui-Gon saw Galen wielding his bronze shoto blade alongside Aurra with her lightsaber, and Jango with Kento's saber.

As he, Aurra and Jango easily fended off Maul, Galen used the Force to throw sand at him while casting lightning, turning the sand into glass, sending Maul flying back.

Then Aurra and Jango clashed blades with Maul several times before a barrage of laser fire from Slave 1, piloted by Silas, hit Maul who was forced to retreat.

Qui-Gon hurried onto the Naboo cruiser which closed the boarding ramp, ascended into the sky, and flew away.

Momentarily thereafter.

Interior: Naboo cruiser.

Obi-Wan and Anakin rushed over to Jinn.

"Are you alright?" asked Anakin.

"What was it?" inquired Obi-Wan.

"I'm not sure, but it was well trained in the Jedi arts," answered Qui-Gon who went to the comms room as they were hailed by Slave 1.

Via viewscreen, the older Jedi self-introduced, "I'm Qui-Gon Jinn, and this is my Padawan, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

And who might you be, my friends?"

"I'm Jango Fett, this is Aurra Sing, Silas Ordo, and my son, Kane."

Though intimidated by Sing, having nearly been killed by her once or twice, Obi-Wan's eyes widened at the sight of a familiar hilt, "Where did you get that!?" whilst silently praying to the Force that it wasn't another trophy she'd taken after its owner's death.

"It belonged to Kane's deceased biological father," answered Fett, "Kento Marek."

Obi-Wan asked, "Pardon, did you say 'Kento Marek,'?"

Jango nodded, "Yes. My boy's birth name is Galen Marek.

His parents, Kento Marek and Mallie Qel-Droma, were murdered by the same Sith who persues you now."

"Kento was like my brother, and I loved Mallie as a sister."

"Then we offer our condolences, Kenobi."

Looking at Galen, Qui-Gon asked, "We're on our way to Coruscant, do you wish to come along, young one?

With your buir's permission, of course."

After some discussion with his companions, Galen answered, "Yes, sir."

"The Force's unusually strong with both Galen and Anakin. Very interesting."

Silas rolled his eyes behind his helmet, "One of your disturbances in the Force?"

"Indeed. Far beyond anything I've felt before."

Sing chuckled, "I could've told you that, Wayseeker."

Qui-Gon nodded, "Aurra, while you may wish to strike my Order down for failing you, I bear you no ill will.

I wish you well, that good fortune comes your way, and your future is a bright one."

Aurra gave a small smile, "Thanks, Qui-Gon."

Uncertain, Obi-Wan chimed in, "The Council's not going to like where you're likely going with all this, Master."

Fett, Sing and Silas interjected, "Not entirely sure if we will either."

Later.

Exterior: Coruscant, floating landing pad, day-time.

As they disembarked from the ships, Galen sensed something off, "Buir, I feel cold. It's Maul. He's here.

I think I sense his master, Darth Sidious, and maybe even Darth Plagueis, too."

Jango, Sing, Silas, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan exchanged looks before the Huntress went elsewhere and Senator Palpatine approached.

As he drew his shoto, Galen growled, "You! Darth Sidious!" raised his other hand, and slowly choked Palpatine with the Force.

Present company was shocked by the boy's hostility towards the politician.

The 2 Jedi exchanged startled looks of confusion and caution.

Placing a hand on Galen's shoulder, Jango calmly said, "Stand down, ad'ika, don't kill him out of anger."

Reluctantly turning off the saber and releasing Palpatine, Galen stared at him in contempt, "I don't trust you, shabuir.

I see through your illusions, Dar'jetii. I see the deformed, raspy voiced, yellow eyed monster hiding behind your faux face, Sidious."

Masking his astonishment and disdain, Palpatine thought, "Wretched child."

A day later.

Interior: Jedi Temple, Council chambers, evening.

Regarding Anakin, Qui-Gon asked, "He is to be trained then?"

Mace Windu coldly answered, "No, he will not be trained."

"No?"

"He's too old."

"I will train him then," said Qui-Gon who placed his hand on Ani's shoulder, "I take Anakin as my Padawan learner."

The Council looked at each other, then back at Qui-Gon.

"An apprentice you have, Qui-Gon. Impossible to take on a second," said Yoda.

"The code forbids it," said Mace, bluntly.

Galen innocently interjected, "Only one apprentice at a time? That's a Sith thing."

The surprised Council looked at Marek.

"Anakin is the Chosen One. You must see it," protested Jinn, getting back on topic.

"Choose One? What are they talking about?" thought Anakin and the Mandos.

Silas interjected, "Don't know what your 'chosen one,' is meant to be, but you shouldn't put that kind of burden or pressure on a child.

That's just asking for trouble. It'll be your own fault if he turns on you because of it."

Some of the Council nodded in agreement.

Plo Koon chimed in, "I agree with the Mandalorian."

Placing a hand on his current protege's shoulder, Qui-Gon firmly declared, "Obi-Wan is ready,"

Agreeing with enthusiasm, Obi-Wan keenly insisted, "I am ready to face the trials,"

"Our own council, will we keep on who is ready." rejected Yoda.

Galen interjected, "I'm sorry to interrupt, Yoda, sir.

But Darth Maul, the Dar'jetii Qui-Gon mentioned, was looking for a Chosen One when he killed my kin.

He mentioned a very specific gai."

Master Shaak Ti turned her attention to Galen as they recognised each other but showed no indication of it.

The Togruta wore a cream sleeveless top with a deep V-front that went down her cleavage and just past her navel, light gauntlets.

Light skin-tight shorts, a short cream coloured battle skirt, a dark coloured patterned sash, and an Akul tooth headdress.

Serene but concerned, Shaak Ti asked, "What name, young one?"

Solemnly, Galen answered, "'Skywalker,'."

Little Ani turned to Galen in horror, "Wait, your family was killed because someone was after me?"

"I guess so," exhaled Galen before Anakin hugged him.

"I'm so sorry," apologised Ani.

"It wasn't your fault. It was the Sith."

The present Jedi exchanged mixed looks and reactions. Mostly of horror, alarm, condolence and concern.

Marek turned to the Council, "Also, if you don't accept Ani, you don't get me either.

We're a package deal," then heard Windu quietly yawn, "Am I keeping you awake?"

Caught off-guard by a kid calling him out, Mace wasn't sure whether to be pissed or furious.

"The fate of the boys will be decided later. Queen Amidala is returning to Naboo. Go with her and draw out her attacker.

Qui-Gon, this could be the key to unraveling the mystery of the Sith." grimly instructed Mace.

"My son told you the name of three Dar'jetii. I thought there could only be two.

You'd be wise to investigate Palpatine." said Jango, "One doesn't need your powers to know something's off about him."

Silas added, "The banking clan's leader seems rather shady too."

Ignoring the Mandos, Mace stoically continued, "Qui-Gon, even if you get your way, you can only train one Padawan at a time."

Galen groaned, "We get it, Winnie the Du. You're stoic, moody and broody." causing some of the present company to laugh.

Especially a Nautolan man with an optimistic aura about him.

"What'd you just call me? And if you call me out again, I'll-"

"Follow the yellow brick road to the Emerald City, and ask the Wizard for a heart?"

Unable to stop herself, a Rutian Twi'lek woman, who'd just walked in, innocently laughed.

She was voluptuous, curvy, athletic, gymnastic, acrobatic, busty, beautiful, sexy, dreamlike and breathtaking with well toned, smooth blue skin, and hazel eyes.

Garbed in a dark brown, low-cut, single-sleeved, halter crop-top exposing her taut tummy, form-fitting pants with a belt, and leather boots, with a net-like headpiece around her lekku.

In awe of her and calmed by her soothing presence, Galen beamed very fondly at her, and she smiled back as they made eye contact, then he super sped up to, and warmly hugged her.

Kneeling down and gently hugging him back while very surprised and curious, she couldn't help adoring the youngling in her arms, "Awww, this little treasure's precious and so full of life, light, and the Force," then innocently asked, "Can I adopt him?"

Straightening up and removing his helmet, Jango politely greeted her, "Jango Fett at your service, my lady. And whose acquaintance do I have the honour of making?"

"Aayla Secura."

Galen sweetly told Secura, "You're the most angelically, divinely beautiful woman in the history of all the galaxies and the multiverse."

Everyone present, except no-fun Windu, Tiin and Ki-Adi, smiled.

"Thank you, sweetie," appreciated Aayla who kissed his cheek, "what's your name, darling?"

"I'm Galen Marek."

"It's wonderful to meet you, Galen."

"Likewise, Aayla. Love you," sweetly said the little boy, melting almost everyone's hearts.

"Love you too, Galen," Secura softly returned.

As the hug came to an end, Galen and Aayla exchanged affectionate smiles.

After quickly hugging each of the female council members and Yoda whose hearts melted, Marek left with Silas, Ani, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan.

Jango stayed a few minutes longer to talk to the Council.

"A short while ago, I was hired for a job by Jetii Master Sifo-Dyas.

I thought it was an alias until I actually met him in person."

The Council looked to each other, then to Jango.

"For his increasingly radical views, no longer on this Council, Sifo-Dyas is.

Telling us this, you are, why?"

"I'm only telling you this for Galen.

If I'm letting the Jedi help raise my boy, I'll have to trust you." replied Jango, "and that's near impossible for me. Both of us were at the battle of Galidraan.

Next to Galen who didn't participate, I was the sole survivor of ner aliit that was present."

Mace, Seasee and Ki-Adi glanced at each other.

"For what happened to your clan, truly sorry, we are," apologised Yoda, remorseful, "on behalf of this Council, and the Jedi Order, offer our most sincere apologies, I do."

Jango nodded to the little green Jedi, "Galen's suffered worse from it. Death Watch abducted, brutally tortured him, and put him into slavery while trying to weaponize him after they saw his powers."

The revelation hit too close to home for some of the present company.

"Happened next, what did?" inquired Yoda.

"After we rescued Galen and about 200 other hostages, we were pointed towards Tython to find him a proper teacher."

"Regarding the boy, more to say, have you?" asked Yoda.

Jango answered, "When I got him back, he had these," and revealed an opened holocron, and a shoto lightsaber, causing the council to rise to their feet in alarm.

"A Sith holocron?" asked Mace, disgusted at the sight, "and the boy opened it? By himself?"

As she examined the lightsaber and ignited its blade, Depa Billaba went pale, "This is Freedon Nadd's lightsaber."

Adi asked, "Anything else?"

"He's psychometric and naturally a fast learner. The first time I saw him was from a distance, and he was glowing."

"Like a little star?" asked Aayla.

"Yes… He's a foundling in my care. I'm staying in contact with him after you accept him into the Order."

Ki-Adi asked, "What makes you so sure we'll allow the boy to join us, Mandalorian?"

Shaak Ti interjected, "Talent without training is nothing short of dangerous, both to one's self and others.

We must train Galen and Anakin. They won't be safe until they've mastered their abilities.

Also, the former's quite adorable, and I owe him a debt. He's also made it clear they're a package deal."

"Thanks to Galen having visions, we'd picked up the occasional habit of saving younglings or Jedi.

The first time, it was a little Togruta girl from Shili who was in danger from Zygerrian slavers impersonating Jetii.

But we kept our distance for discretion.

Another time was a Twi'lek named Eldra. Both were before Galidraan."

The Council and Aayla exchanged looks.

Plo mused, "The little girl is my little 'soka."

With a small smile, Jango asked, "Your daughter?"

"I like to think so."

"Galen's been studying his birth parents' holocrons, so he's not going to need a crash course in the Force."

Shaak Ti casually mentioned, "If the Council denies Galen training, I'm going to take a page out of Qui-Gon's book and take him as my Padawan anyway."

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, halls.

Turning to Aayla as the two left the council chamber, Jango asked, "When Galen's accepted into the Order, will you please watch over and take care of him?

He already adores you."

"Yes, I will, and I adore him too. You have my word, Jango."

"Thank you, Aayla."

A few days later.

Interior: Jedi temple, clan common room.

As she and Shaak Ti escorted Galen in, Padawan Xiaan Amersu said, "Attention everyone. Our family has a new brother,"

Shaak Ti introduced, "Galen Marek, meet Bardan Jusik, Etain Tur-Mukan, Barriss Offee, Ara Barotta, Trilla Suduri, Ahsoka Tano, Sha Koon and Maris Brood."

The clan, who were Galen's age at the youngest, either shook his hand or hugged him.

As he looked at Maris who seemed shy, Galen began, "Wow… you're-"

"A freak? Scary? A monster?" nervously asked the Dathomirian girl, who was a year or two older than him.

Maris had pale skin, yellow eyes, short dark hair, and crimson red horns on her head, and wore basic Jedi initiate robes.

"No… you're very beautiful, Maris," kindly answered Galen as he gave a friendly smile.

Maris smiled back and tightly hugged him, "Thank you… no-one's ever told me I'm beautiful, before."

"Well, I really do think you're beautiful, Maris." said Galen who turned to Shaak Ti, and asked, "There're some subjects you're an expert in that I might struggle with.

Can you please help me with them, outside of class?"

"Of course, I'd be happy to tutor you."

"Thank you, Shaak." cheerfully said Galen who hugged the Togrutan Jedi Master.

"You're welcome."

The next day.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, classroom, morning.

A tall, slender human woman with tanned skin and hazel eyes introduced, "Good morning, younglings. My name is Cere Junda.

I'll be your music teacher from now on. I know it's not everyone's passion, but you all deserve the opportunity to try it."

Selecting an ocarina from a variety of instruments, Galen felt an echo in the Force as he closed his eyes and played Ahsoka's character suite.

As Marek finished the tune, Cere smiled and gave a small round of applause, "That was beautiful. I don't believe we've met before, young one."

Galen nodded, "It's nice to meet you, Cere. I'm Galen Marek."

"It's nice to meet you too. Are you new? Where do you come from?"

"It's ner sol'yc day. I'm from Concord Dawn, and I'm a Mandalorian."

"Welcome to the Jedi Order, young one."

"Thank you."

As she came over, Eldra asked, "Aren't you the boy who was with the Mandalorians when they curiously came to my rescue?"

"The Force gave me a vision of you in trouble, so I asked ner aliit to intervene."

"Thank you for that, little one."

Later.

Exterior: Jedi temple, courtyard, by the great tree, mid-day.

Sitting on the grass with the little boy, Aayla brought him into a warm hug.

Out of nowhere, Galen asked, "Do gar kar'tayl Kit darasuum?"

Her cheeks flushed, "Yes, Ni kar'tayl Kit darasuum ti all ner heart."

As if on cue, Kit appeared and fondly admitted, "I love you too, Aayla."

As he and Aayla stood up, Galen encouraged, "Go on, gar t'ad, kiss. You know you want to.

If you don't do it willingly, I'll see if I can use a mind touch on both of you."

Sharing an endearing smile, the Twi'lek and Nautolan gently pressed their lips against each other's whilst closely embracing, and Galen snuck a holopic.

"Are gar t'ad going to get married?" innocently asked Galen, making the two Jedi blush.

"That'd be amazing," replied Fisto before he was called elsewhere.

Aayla ruffled Galen's hair, then hugged him, "Thanks for encouraging us, sweetie."

"Connection cuyir te Jetii way. I sense the bond gar share.

I think the Force wants you to be together."

"I don't imagine the Council will see it that way."

"Unless it's Yoda, Kit, Plo, Shaak Ti, Depa ra Luminara speaking, does anyone ever listen to the council?"

Secura chuckled, "Good point."

"Heard that, I did!" called a nearby voice.

Turning to the little, green Jedi standing nearby, Galen greeted, "Su'cuy, Yoda."

The Grandmaster raised an eyebrow, "By some of their ranks and titles, address your peers, you do not?"

"This is why," said Galen as he lowered his surprisingly powerful mental shields so Yoda could read his mind.

Overwhelmed by what he saw and felt within the boy's memories, Yoda shed a tear as his cane dropped to the ground, unusually loudly.

"In the light, how do you stay?" asked Yoda, aghast at what he felt from inside the little boy's mind, "so much anger in you… much sadness… much pain… much loss."

"That's the thing. I don't know if I do, which is why I'm here. I need help, and I didn't know who to turn to." admitted Marek before the Twi'lek hugged him tightly.

A month later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, training room.

As his class was introduced to a large four-armed brute with two saberstaffs, Galen thought, "I've got a bad feeling about this."

"Alright, you wretched little brats, I am Master Pong Krell.

I only teach those worthy of being trained to fight," self-introduced the jerk, "That means I'm not wasting my time teaching silly little girls.

Females are too weak, stupid and fragile to learn combat."

The whole class was disgusted by Krell's remarks.

Taking a stand, Ahsoka drew her saber, "Take that back, you jerk!"

"You dare talk back to your superior, whelp?" hissed Krell who drew his sabers, "perhaps a demonstration of consequences is in order."

"You're not my superior."

As Ahsoka stepped into the centre of the room, she readied her stance before quickly evading unnecessarily aggressive slashes.

The match was heavily one-sided against Ahsoka who was suddenly caught by her leg and thrown to the ground, lifted into the air by the Force, and punched in the stomach making her gasp loudly in pain.

"Insolence and insubordination will not be tolerated," snarled Krell before slamming her to the ground and kicking her in the ribcage.

The rest of the class watched in horror as the bastard kept hitting Tano. They weren't being taught anything, he was just hurting their classmate.

Stubbornly getting back up despite having several broken bones, Ahsoka called her lightsaber back to her, but the brutish giant slapped her in the face, threw her against and pinned her to a neighbouring wall.

Then held his blades against her form, burning her and making her scream and shriek in pain.

As he raised one of his lightsabers and motioned to strike her down, he was sent crashing through several walls by a combined Force push from Barriss, Trilla, Ara, Sha, Etain, Maris, and everyone else in their class.

Rushing in, Qui-Gon, Plo, Shaak Ti and Aayla were horrified by the state of Ahsoka who was immediately brought to the halls of healing.

Shortly thereafter.

Interior: Jedi temple, halls of healing.

While Luminara tended to Tano's injuries, she asked, "What happened?"

"Krell's a brutish, sexist, psycho." answered Galen, "He was bullying, brutally beating and kicking Ahsoka. Then he started burning her with his lightsaber." making Luminara tense up and flinch.

As he entered and froze in horror, Kit said, "He's definitely forbidden from teaching ever again.

And he's having the rank of master taken from him. He will answer to the Council for this."

Galen casually asked, "Shouldn't someone like him be locked up in the Citadel?"

Kit's eyes widened, "How'd you even know about that place?"

"I'm psychometric, and people say there's a wing just for people with foresight inside Jetii Azkaban."

"Oh… that is a worrying thought."

"Also, the maps should be updated. In case we ever need to rescue someone from there, or raid it."

"Did you have a vision about that happening?"

"I didn't even know the place existed until after having a vision about it.

Also, they need to be more specific about what they mean by Jetii who've 'lost their way,'.

Or is that where you're sent if you leave the Order?"

"Agreed. and I should hope not."

"Visions from the Force should always be taken seriously, not earn you a trip to Jedi Azkaban."

"Agree with you, I do." said Yoda who appeared in a floating chair.

Galen requested, "Luminara, will you please teach me to use the Force for healing? I know people see ni as a potential weapon.

It's a jate idea to make sure I can build more than I can destroy. Heal more than I can harm."

"I'd be glad to, young one." answered Luminara who smiled, "and that's quite sound reasoning."

Galen warmly smiled and hugged Unduli, "Thank you, Lu."

"You're welcome." said Unduli who curiously looked at him, "also, 'Lu,'?"

"Is it ok if I call you that? If it's not, I won't."

"It's alright, Galen. Albeit informal, I'll allow it."

"Great, 'cause I really like and care about you. I'm trying to give you a nickname, as a sign of affection." innocently said Galen, "also, you're really, really pretty.

I hope you know that, because it's true. You're one of the most beautiful women in the universe."

Luminara smiled at him, "You're very sweet, Galen."

"Thank gar, ner cyar'ika Lu."

Unduli chuckled, "May the Force help us all when you go through the phase that comes with being a teenager."

"You could try using the Force for healing now, if you like." added Luminara, "your connection to the Force is quite raw, pure, and powerful so it may guide you through the process in the moment."

"Okay… also, I noticed your reaction when I told you how Ahsoka was hurt," noted Galen who looked concerned for the Mirialan Jedi, "Did something similar happen to you?"

"I'll deal with it." exhaled Luminara as her face saddened.

"Someone hurt you, didn't they? Who was it?" asked Galen whose expression turned serious, "Whoever it was that hurt you, they'll answer to me, for it.

I won't let them get away with this."

"It was my former Master. A cold-hearted, cruel, abusive, sexist authoritarian.

It was his favoured method of discipline and punishment for me growing up." answered Luminara, "It's why I may come off as detached or distant."

"What'd he do?"

"He'd burn me with his lightsaber if I tried to express myself, or spend time with friends when I was a youngling.

Or if I smiled at a boy I liked. Or laughed at something I found amusing.

Because of him, I don't know how to process, show or handle some emotions and feelings."

Immediately bringing Unduli into a comforting hug, Marek promised, "He'll never hurt you again, and I'll bring him to justice.

We Mandalore take care of bal protect cuun aliit. And you're a treasured member of mine.

I already love you, Luminara, and I'm here for you whenever you need me."

Shedding long overdue tears, Luminara knelt down and closely embraced Marek, "Thank you so much, you dear, sweet, precious child.

By the Force, I love you too, you darling boy."

Everyone's hearts warmed.

Gently bringing his right hand to Ahsoka's burnt stomach causing her to flinch, Galen continuously chanted, "Ni cuy' solus ti te Force, bal te Force cuyir ti ni.

I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me." and created a small glowing aura around his hand and her entire body.

The present company watched in curiosity, fascination and intrigue.

As she felt her pain going away, Ahsoka found herself in a warm glow.

Broken bones repaired themselves. Dislocated ones shifted back into place.

Her damaged skin cells and tissue had regenerated. Burns completely healed. And her bruises went away.

Feeling a relief all over her body after a quiet whimper in pain, Luminara raised her shirt and looked down to see several old scars on her taut stomach had healed themselves on a sub-molecular level, to the extent it was as if they'd never happened.

Every injury she'd ever taken was completely healed, and improperly healed injuries had corrected themselves.

Every comatose and critical condition patient in the halls of healing made a miraculous recovery, as did sick patients.

After a few moments, the glow faded and Galen, feeling light headed, staggered for a few moments before falling into a nearby chair, and drifting off to sleep.

"Excess energy, used much, he has. Exhausted, he is." observed Yoda, "but done what he sought to, he has."

Kit noted, "I'd suggest he practice controlling how much energy he puts into using his powers."

"Aid him in this, I will."

"He may also need to work on his linguistics. Not everyone knows Mando'a, which he often switches to.

And his protocol droid scares the other younglings."

Luminara chuckled, "What'd you expect from a HK unit?"

Ahsoka smiled at her friend, "Galen looks so cute when he's sleeping."

"He certainly does," agreed Luminara, "and I think I know where the excess energy he used went.

You're not the only one he healed. It seems he's healed everyone in the Halls of healing."

Later.

Exterior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, courtyard, afternoon.

Radiating righteous fury, Galen drew his lightsaber upon seeing who he was looking for, "Krell!"

Turning to the boy, Krell asked, "Well, what's this? A tiny Mandalorian?"

"You'll pay for what you did to Ahsoka."

"Who? Oh, that little tail-headed brat who wouldn't stay in her place."

Drawing both his saberstaffs, Krell prepared a stance, "Come on then, child," before he suddenly found himself on the defensive.

Using Soresu, Galen parried each strike before cutting Krell's oversized saberstaffs in half which made the brute use 4 lightsabers as they were cut clean in half.

"Should've seen that coming," groaned Marek before combining Shien with his Soresu.

5 mins later.

Ending it, Marek ripped the crystals out of Krell's damaged sabers, causing them to overheat, and stabbed him in the lap before sending him into a wall with electric judgement.

Then Galen heard his comlink beep.

Via comlink, Shaak Ti said, "Galen, we have a tutoring session together, in the archives.

It starts in a minute."

Interior: Jedi temple, library.

Marek sped to the archives faster than a pod-racer before stopping and sitting across from Secura and Ti, "Made it just in time."

"Shall we begin?" asked Ti.

"Yes, please."

"Which subject shall we cover? History? Philosophy? Culture? Art?" asked Aayla.

"Or shall we head to the kitchens and practice some cooking?" suggested Ti.

"I think it's a jate idea to learn how to cook. Will gar help ni ti te stove bal oven?" asked Galen.

"Of course. What would you like to make?" inquired Shaak.

"Ahsoka loves chocolate cake.

She's in the halls of healing, and I sense her sadness.

I wanna make one for her, to help cheer her up."

"Awww, you're so sweet and thoughtful." fondly said Aayla.

Later.

Interior: Jedi temple, halls of healing.

As they were granted permission, Galen, Aayla and Shaak Ti entered Ahsoka's room and brought in a perfectly cooked cake via trolley.

Upon seeing it, Tano's eyes lit up, "Is that for me?"

Shaak nodded, "Galen's idea."

Gently hugging his friend, Galen said, "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Ahsoka Tano."

"You're the best, Galen." appreciatively, said Ahsoka who asked, "also, what does that mean?"

"It's Mando'a for 'I love you,'."

"Yay!"

Cutting them each a piece of cake, Aayla handed a plate to Ahsoka.

"He really is a sweetheart." fondly mused Luminara.

Taking a bite of her slice, Ahsoka smiled brightly, "This is amazing! Thank you so much, Galen."

"Anything for you, lil 'soka." sweetly said Galen, making the young Togruta blush.

Finishing her slice and wiping her mouth with a napkin, Ahsoka put her plate on a bedside table whilst giving him an affectionate smile before hugging him.

Shaak Ti, Luminara and Aayla sensed waves of life and warm feelings radiating from the two kids.

As he entered, Obi-Wan greeted, "Hello there."

Galen introduced, "Obi-Wan Kenobi, this is Ahsoka Tano."

With a friendly smile, Kenobi said, "It's a pleasure to meet you, young one."

Tano smiled at the ginger, "Nice to meet you too, Padawan Obi-Wan,"

"It's actually Knight Kenobi now."

"Awesome!"

"I heard what happened. Are you alright?"

"I am now, thanks to Galen. He healed me all by himself."

"Really?" asked a surprised Obi-Wan.

"Cutie fell asleep as soon as he finished healing me, plus everyone else in the halls of healing."

"I'd imagine that'd take quite a toll."

Galen noticed the healer's eyes light up whilst her smile brightened upon Kenobi's arrival as she eyed him with interest.

Noticing flowers in Obi's hand, behind his back, Galen knew who they were for.

Presenting the flowers to Luminara, Obi-Wan said, "These are for you," and closely embraced her whilst giving her a gentle kiss.

Enthralled by the display of affection, Unduli kissed him back whilst returning the warm embrace.

"Awww," said the two younglings, Shaak, and Aayla.

Obi-Wan and Luminara slowly parted lips and stepped back from each other.

"Oh my goodness, you are a bold one." said Luminara with a smile and flushed cheeks, "And that was quite a lovely surprise, Obi-Wan.

Thank you for such a pleasant surprise."

"Anytime, my dear."

Secura and Ti smiled.

"By the way: Lu, I had a vision of you in a white dress and Obi in a fancy tux.

You were standing by an altar, holding hands, in front of your friends and family." Marek casually mentioned, "You were wearing matching gold rings, and kissing."

Unduli blushed, "That sounds quite lovely."

With his cheeks flushed, Obi-Wan was now imagining what it'd be like.

"I'm shipping it," said Secura who beamed at Kenobi and Unduli, "Invite me to the wedding, you two."

Seeing what was in another hospital bed, Ahsoka adoringly smiled, "Awww, it's a baby Yoda. He's so cute."

The present company smiled in amusement.

"My name, did I hear?" asked Yoda as he walked in.

"Now I wanna see photos of Yoda when he was a kid." declared Tano.

Turning to the little green Jedi, Aayla asked, "How can we help you, Master Yoda?"

"To borrow young Marek, I need. Practice using his power, his energy distribution, and his control, we must."

"Yes, sir." agreed Galen.

A few weeks later.

Interior: Jedi temple, corridor, dorms.

As he was walking past Maris's room, Galen heard crying so he knocked on the door.

As he was allowed in, he saw her sitting on her bed, looking down at the floor, crying.

Sitting next to her, he, in a concerned tone, asked, "Maris, are you ok? What's wrong? Please tell me."

Turning to face him, she sobbed, "I- I just never feel good enough. People think I'm a freak because I learn differently and on a different level to them.

They say no-one cares about me. And that I have no friends."

He empathised, "I've been there. Those people are wrong. You're not a freak, you're gifted and talented.

I care about you. You're my friend."

"I feel so lonely."

Gently holding her hand as he looked into her eyes, he comforted, "Hey… I'm here for you. You're not alone anymore."

As her tears stopped, she tightly hugged him, "Thank you."

"That's what friends are for," said Galen who smiled, "I'm kinda hungry. Would you like to join me?"

Her eyes lit up, "Yes please. And let's invite your friend, Anakin, too.

I noticed barely anyone seems to hang out with him. And I don't want him to be lonely."

"That's a great idea."

"Who should we ask to supervise us? Younglings aren't allowed to leave the temple grounds without at least a senior Padawan as a guide or the clan leader."

"How about Qui-Gon?"

"Let's go find them."

Interior: Jedi temple, dorms.

Knocking on Ani's door, Galen heard his friend answer, "It's open."

As the two younglings entered to see Skywalker putting down a handcrafted model of his blue and yellow pod-racer, Maris greeted, "Hi, Anakin."

"Maris, right? Hi." greeted Ani who asked, "What's going on?"

"We're going out for some real food. Will you please join us? We'd really like you to."

Ani's eyes lit up, "That sounds totally Wizard."

Admiring Anakin's handiwork, Maris mentioned, "These are really cool."

Smiling, Skywalker appreciated the praise, "Thanks, I made them myself."

"That's awesome. Maybe we could build something together, some time." suggested Brood.

"I'd like that."

Shortly thereafter.

Interior: Coruscant, Dexter's diner.

As the 3 younglings entered with Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon, good ol' Dex personally greeted them and took their orders.

Ani asked, "So, can you tell me a little about yourself, Maris? What's something you'd like to do or become?"

"I wanna be more confident in myself and my abilities. See new worlds and learn about their cultures.

I also wanna be able to heal and empathise with people.

I can get really lonely, so I wanna be there to help others when they are." admitted Maris who asked, "How about yourself?"

Knowing how hard it must've been for the shy Dathomiri girl to share, Ani answered, "I want to return to Tatooine so I can find my mum, and make sure she's safe.

Slavery still plagues the outer rim, and I want to end it.

When Qui-Gon brought me to the temple, I had to leave mum behind.

I had to leave my mother in slavery."

As a tear trickled down her cheek, Brood tightly hugged Ani, "I'm so sorry. I can't imagine how you must be feeling."

Qui-Gon joined the hug as well, "Thank you for sharing, Ani. I can tell this was very difficult for you."

Taking his turn, Galen shared, "I want to reclaim the darksabers. I know where one is: in the wrong hands."

Curious, Obi-Wan asked, "The wrong hands?"

Galen answered, "The hands of the Death Watch, a splinter group of bastards."

"What's so special about the darksabers?" asked Maris, fascinated.

"The Jetii who built them was a Mandalorian who later became Mand'alor.

After his passing: they became symbolic of the mantle to the Mandalorians."

"Why do you want them?"

"To do right by the legacy of the Mandalorians who saved bal raised me.

They came through for me when I needed them the most. I wanna make ner aliit and ner people proud."

"That's an admirable aspiration." said Qui-Gon.

Maris suggested, "Hey, why don't we go visit Ani's mum?"

Qui-Gon began, "We may not be able to bring her to Coruscant and the temple because of the no attachment rule."

"But we can at least put Ani's mind at ease by making sure she's ok." finished Kenobi.

Ani smiled, "Let's get going."

Later.

Exterior: Tatooine, Mos Espa, markets.

Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan and the younglings tracked down Watto.

Surprised, Watto asked, "Ani? And… you! Outlander! You're a Jedi!? Agh, whatever it is, I didn't do it."

"We're looking for Shmi Skywalker," said Obi-Wan.

"Ah, she's not mine, no more. I sold her."

Concerned, Ani asked, "You sold my mother?"

"Sorry, Ani, but business is business. I couldn't afford to shelter, take care of, and provide for her.

So I sold her to someone who could take care of her and would treat her well."

Qui-Gon inquired, "Who?"

"First of all, I assure you it was no-one vile.

It was a moisture farmer named… ah, 'Lars,' or something like that.

Believe it or not, I heard he freed her, and married her! Can you beat that?"

Skywalker asked, "And Threepio?"

"That droid you were building? She has it with her.

I let her keep it as a parting gift," answered Watto who asked, "How are you? You doin' ok?"

Young Skywalker smiled, "I'm ok."

Galen asked, "Can you please give us the coordinates of this moisture farm?"

"Absolutely, let's have a look through my records. It was recently so it should be easy to find."

Shortly thereafter.

Exterior: Tatooine, moisture farm, Lars homestead.

As the Ebon Hawk landed, the Jedi disembarked to see a droid and a middle aged man.

Weary, the man greeted, "Hello,"

Qui-Gon asked, "Cliegg Lars?"

"Yes… how can I help you?"

Ani said, "I'm Anakin Skywalker. Is my mother here?"

As she came up the stairs out of the homestead, Shmi asked, "Ani?" then ran up to and hugged her little boy.

Cliegg noticed the lightsabers, "You're Jedi… is something going on?"

Obi explained, "No, we came so Ani could visit his mum. He's been very worried."

Shmi smiled as she looked at them.

A few weeks later.

Exterior: Pasaana, forbidden valley.

As Proxy parked the Ebon Hawk, Galen said, "We're here!"

As she disembarked alongside Galen and Ahsoka, Aayla asked, "Here as in?"

Seeing thousands of people at a celebration, Galen said to Aayla, "Welcome to the Festival of Ancestors.

And happy birthday," before the Rutian warmly hugged him and Ahsoka.

"Thank you so much, you two," gratefully appreciated Aayla who beamed with joy.

"Anytime." brightly said the kids as they joined the masses attending the Festival of Ancestors, and made sure not to miss anything.

Later.

Interior: Ebon Hawk, quarters, evening.

As she tucked herself into bed with the kids after they changed into their pjs, Aayla beamed with happiness, "Thank you, both of you, for giving me such a memorable and special birthday. You're the best."

Ahsoka smiled back, "It was our pleasure,"

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Buir," sweetly said Galen, making Aayla's heart melt, "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum ti all ner ka'rta."

Beaming with affection, Aayla gently hugged her little boy, "I love you too. I love you so very much, my precious Star'ika."

With a bright smile, Ahsoka joined the hug, "I love both of you as well,"

"We love you too, Ahsoka."

A few weeks later.

Interior: Coruscant, temple, training dojo.

While closely watching in interest as Shaak Ti practiced, Galen memorised each of her movements and began performing them himself, with little to no difficulty.

Within 3 hours, he was so focused on learning the movements, he didn't realise she was now watching with a fascinated smile.

"Impressive, most impressive," praised Shaak Ti as the youngling quickly finished practicing.

Surprised, Galen turned to her, "Oh, Shaak Ti. I didn't know you were watching."

"You're using your father's lightsaber?"

"As you know, the Council confiscated my shoto. That was unfair, but at least I got to keep my dad's.

This's been like a good luck charm. And Jango used it to fight Maul after Kento was killed.

Like it was passed down from one Buir to the next."

Sensing his thoughts, she noticed, "You have a lot on your mind. Would you like to talk about it?"

"Ni had another flashback to ner kin's kyr'am."

As her eyes widened, a concerned Shaak Ti knelt down and comfortingly embraced him, "Are you ok?"

"I'd be worried if I was," said Galen who returned the embrace, "I've already lost two families. I don't want to lose another.

Even if it sounds selfish, I'll cabuor ner aliit ti everything Ni have."

Shaak smiled, "That's not being selfish, that's being a Mandalorian."

"Will you please spar ti ni? The droids here are a bit slow, and I haven't finished updating Proxy."

"Of course, I'd be glad to." answered Ti before they began dueling.

An hour or so later.

As she entered to see the Togruta and Mando finish sparring, a relieved Aayla asked, "There you are, Galen. Where've you been?"

"Shaak Ti was showing me some new moves," answered Galen, who was worn out, "we lost track of time while practicing."

With a smile, Shaak Ti confirmed, "It's true."

Aayla knelt down to Galen, "I was worried about you, sweetie. Quinlan says you were fighting some of the Padawans, outside of sparring matches."

"They were bullying some of ner friends. They wouldn't stop, and they hurt them," explained Galen, "I had to do something."

"Galen, you can't always control some of your abilities," softly said Aayla, "but your progress is really amazing.

You've done in days and weeks what many cannot do in years."

Shaak Ti neutrally chimed in, "Even though you're handling them better than most knights and masters, some of your powers are developing and growing faster than you're initially managing to control them.

And some of the ones you have a natural affinity for are quite dangerous to use so casually."

"Ni just wanted those jerks to stop hurting ner friends."

"We know you meant well, sweetie." softly said Aayla as she gently hugged him.

Little Galen admiringly declared, "When I grow up, I wanna surpass both of you, Qui-Gon, Yoda, Ulic Qel-Droma, Exar Kun, bal Revan in kad skills.

I also wanna be as brave as Jaster, Buir, bal Mand'alor the Preserver.

And be as kind-hearted as both of you," earning a smile at his enthusiasm from Shaak Ti and Aayla.

"Should we be worried that you think so highly of ancient Sith Lords?" chuckled Secura.

"Revan, Ulic bal Exar's skills with a lightsaber are legendary, so I respect them for that.

And how does someone not think highly of Revan?"

"I know, darling," said Aayla as she hugged him.

A few months later.

Interior: Dexter's diner, mid-day.

As they reached over to feel Aayla's lekku, a Gamorrean was sent flying into a wall by Force push without anything or anyone being knocked over or damaged in the process.

"Bad piggie," scolded Galen who threatened, "try that again, I'll cut you into chops, and feed you to a Loth-Wolf, or maybe a Kath Hound," making the pig flee.

"Were you serious?" laughingly asked Depa.

Galen cheekily grinned.

Ruffling Marek's hair, Aayla giggled, "During the recent excursion to Lothal, Galen came to me with a Loth-Wolf cub, and asked if he could keep it.

It was adorable, but the poor boy was devastated when he couldn't bring the 'puppy,' home."

"What cheered him up?"

"I shared his bed with and held him in my arms until his nightmares stopped," answered Aayla, "which took over a month, but sometimes I'm the one having bad dreams.

I guess we protect each other in the dream world."

"That's a good idea," praised Shaak Ti, "I remember we did the same thing for each other, when we were growing up. We occasionally still do."

"Cheeky boy learnt how ticklish I am on the first night so we barely got any sleep, but we had lots of fun."

"He already takes after you, Aayla," chuckled an amused Shaak Ti, "we used to do the same thing to each other all the time, and we still share a dorm after all these years."

"Wouldn't have it any other way, Shaak."

"Agreed."

Depa smiled, "You're all so adorable.

Hey, Shaak, what was that nickname Si gave you when we were younglings?"

The radiantly beautiful Togrutan Jedi Knight slightly blushed, "Sifo used to call me 'Ti-ti,' which we knew wasn't a double meaning, but some of our peers made dirty jokes."

Galen suggested, "Was kaysh nervous te sol'yc time kaysh called gar that?

Kaysh might've been stuttering teh shyness teh having a crush on gar."

"Perhaps."

Marek smiled fondly at Shaak Ti, "Gar as mesh'la as an Angel, Shaak."

"Thank you very much, Galen. You're very sweet." appreciated Shaak Ti.

Smiling at her little boy, Aayla asked, "Galen, honey, since you've appointed me your new mommy, can I adopt you?"

"I'd kar'tayl darasuum that, Buir."

Aayla recited, "Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad."

A few months later.

Exterior: Ilum, Jedi temple, crystal cave.

Having disembarked from the Crucible, Galen and some younglings were accompanied by Luminara who led them to Master Yoda.

"Welcome to Ilum, younglings," said Luminara, "Here, you'll find your kyber crystals, but be careful. There shall be tests,"

As a dark chill ran down his spine, Galen staggered and brought his hand to his forehead, then suddenly drew his father's saber and held it up, ready to defend himself.

"Galen? Are you ok? What's up?" asked Bardan who rushed to his friend's side.

"There's something familiar… I feel cold," answered Galen, surprising the present company.

"We are on an ice world," pointed out Sha Koon.

"Not cold like that. It's the dark side…" replied Marek, startling his fellow younglings.

Yoda and Luminara exchanged looks of concern.

As they were about to enter, Galen sheathed his blade, "What's in there?"

"Only what you take with you," answered the Sage, "be tested, you will. Learn you will."

Taking his dad's saber off his belt, Galen gave it to Luminara, "If I'm truly meant to pass, Ni can't take this ti ni."

"I'll take good care of it. May the Force be with you, Galen Marek."

Shortly thereafter.

Interior: Ilum, Jedi temple, crystal cave.

As the younglings went in separate directions, Galen heard a chorus along with a soothing melody, so he followed it whilst it slowly grew louder.

As he entered a dimly lit tunnel, a white fog clouded the room whilst an ice-formation at the end of the tunnel began to glow a rainbow of colours, hues and shades.

Approaching the formation, he stopped dead in his tracks upon hearing a chilling breathing sound whilst a shadow loomed over him.

As it ignited a crimson blade, a Dark Knight in ebony black armour advanced towards Galen.

The boy narrowly avoided some saber strikes before being caught by the arm, and thrown across the room, hitting a wall.

"I sense your fear… your anger… you foolish child. You're unbalanced… unfocused and undisciplined.

For that: your new family will die," taunted the shadow, in an ominous modulated voice, as the form of several injured Jedi lay scattered around them.

Breathing shakily, Galen rose to his feet, "No… I'm not afraid."

"Then what are you, child?"

As he evaded an attack, Galen breathed deeply whilst he calmed himself down and thrice recited, "Ni 'cuy solus ti te Force, bal te Force cuyir ti ni.

I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me."

The darksider slashed at him, only to be blocked by a silver blade.

Having no idea where it came from, Galen now held a gleaming pure beskar sword with a small cross-guard and a small mythosaur skull signet on the hilt.

Pushing the shadow back, Galen closed his eyes, breathed slowly, and held up his blade as his mind cleared before his opponent went to slash at him, then the illusion faded.

As he reached the ice formation, Galen retrieved a collection of crystals before the tunnel began to seal itself, so he ran for it, using the Force to increase his speed.

Exterior: Ilum, kyber crystal cave.

Upon the younglings exiting the cave, Luminara asked, "How did you go, younglings?"

"I'm not sure how to explain this," answered Galen as he held out over a dozen kyber crystals, making Yoda chuckle, while his peers looked in awe.

"Wow!" exclaimed Ahsoka.

"Cool," said Maris.

"Nice," commented Bardan.

"Curious," said Offee.

Revealing the sword, Galen mentioned, "I also found this. It's a pure beskar Force-imbued sword." as he held it aloft, shocking his peers.

"Keep that sword, be able to, you may not." said the ancient sage, "With the council, discuss this, I will."

With a chuckle, Galen nodded, "If they want it, they'll have to take it from me. And Ni might nau'ur kad ner own Force-imbued kad at some point."

"Allow this, I will, under strict supervision, when older, you are. Curious it is, that reveal itself, such a weapon did. Perhaps another path, this rite of passage reveals with the blade."

"Jetii Knight and a Mando'ad. Maybe I'm destined to be some kind of Mandalorian Knight."

Changing the subject, Luminara knelt down and praised, "Congratulations on finding your crystals, Galen," then gasped in surprise as the boy hugged her, smiled, and returned the embrace, "What's this for, little one?"

"Even though it's hidden and buried deep down, I sense great sadness from you. I thought a hug might help cheer you up."

"Thank you, Galen." appreciated Luminara, "That's very sweet of you, dear child."

"Anytime."

Shortly thereafter.

Interior: Ilum, Jedi temple, lightsaber construction chamber.

Guiding the younglings, Luminara recited, "The crystal is the heart of the blade.

The heart is the crystal of the Jedi.

The Jedi is the crystal of the Force. The Force is the blade of the heart.

All are intertwined: the crystal, the blade, the Jedi. You are one."

Meditating whilst constructing his first lightsaber, Galen began to levitate as the pieces of the hilt assembled and joined with a bronze crystal.

Opening his eyes to see literally everything and everyone else in the room, and throughout the whole temple though he didn't know it, floating, Galen finished his meditation.

As everything gently landed on the floor, he lightly chuckled and ruffled the back of his hair, "Sorry,"

Eager, Ahsoka asked, "That was fun! Can we do it again?"

"I wonder if everything floats like that when Master Yoda meditates," mused Etain.

Barriss lightly blushed, having held her skirt down to keep it from floating up despite wearing pants as well.

"May we please see your saber, Galen?" asked Luminara.

Holding aloft his hilt, Galen ignited a thin bronze blade with a slightly curved pointed end, making it look more like a traditional sword.

"Woah!" exclaimed Tano.

Luminara noted, "How Mandalorian of you, Galen. And your design aesthetic is similar to the darksabers."

Marek suggested, "Maybe I can build ones double bladed, shoto or with a hue to distinguish from the originals."

"That would be fascinating to see.

And I see your blade colour's a nod to the shoto you came to the temple with."

"Since the council won't give it back, I made a cooler one."

"It was an artefact of the dark side, to be fair."

"Nadd's Holocron, I understand locking away. But his shoto was just a cool kad."

"True, although you being able to open a Sith Holocron at your age, in the first place, is troubling."

"Mine are done!" excitedly said Maris who'd built dual green bladed shoto, tonfa, lightsabers.

"Gar kad'e are unique and awesome, Maris," complimented Galen, "just like you," before the young Zabrak hugged him.

"Thanks, Galen," appreciated Maris who added, "Also, thank you for saving me, the other night. You're the best."

"I can share ner room ti gar if anything like that happens again.

You can always sleepover if you want or need to. Bal move in ti ni if you like."

"Yay!"

Concerned for the Dathomiri youngling, Luminara knelt down and looked her in the eyes, "What happened, Maris?"

"Someone set my room on fire and jammed my door shut while I was asleep," sobbed Maris who dropped to her knees, "when I woke up, I was surrounded and trapped by fire and smoke."

Everyone exchanged horrified looks.

"Then the door was torn off by Galen who used the Force to put out the fire whilst opening the window too.

He cleared my lungs of some smoke that I'd inhaled. And made sure I was breathing right.

Then brought me to the halls of healing, and stayed with me the whole night." revealed Maris who was immediately hugged by her peers, starting with Luminara, Galen and Ahsoka.

2 years after arriving at the temple.

Interior: Jedi temple, briefing room.

Innocently looking at some of the Council, Galen asked, "Can I please go too? Please?"

Mace dismissed, "What help could you be on an undercover infiltration op?

You're just an impulsive little delinquent."

"Never underestimate a Mandalorian. I have psychometry like Vos does, but mine's more powerful.

Plus, I think outside the box, bal Ni liser get into places an adult can't."

Depa interjected, "Aayla's going to Anzat. It's not the best place to bring a child, no matter how prodigious.

Especially not a Force adept."

"I've been there before," said Galen, "Buir says the Anzati are vampires who feed on the mind.

They specialise in illusions, telepathy and mind tricks on val prey.

Ni see through their illusions."

Placing a gentle hand on Marek's shoulder, Aayla chuckled, "C'mon, my little star, let's find you something to wear for the mission."

"Just gotta do one thing, sol'yc," said Galen who turned to and warmly hugged Depa, Adi, Stass, Shaak Ti and Luminara, "Please be safe,"

Smiling, the 5 women hugged him back, "You too, Galen."

Halfway out the door, Galen turned back, and called, "Love you, Depa. Love you, Luminara. Love you, Shaak Ti. Love you, Adi. Love you, Stass."

Heart warmed, Billaba, Ti, Gallia, Allie and Unduli returned, "Love you too, Galen."

"May the Force be with you." Marek said as he left.

Windu raised an eyebrow, "Why are we letting this happen? He's not even close to ready."

Luminara observed, "You underestimate him far too much."

"And you're encouraging and indulging his affectionate side too much."

"At least he has one." pointed out Depa, "It's refreshing and adorable."

Shaak added, "He's certainly making things interesting."

Interior: fitting room.

Galen emerged in dark green Mando armour and helmet, and dark red pauldrons and vambraces with a black armor-weave suit underneath.

The True Mandalorians crest emblazoned on his right pauldron in gold with a black outline.

Jaster's crest on the top right corner of his green chest plate.

He was armed with twin laser-knives, his saber, a small jetpack, and dual westar-34s.

Aayla wore dark brown goggles and a headpiece on top of her head, and a black, single-sleeved, low-cut halter top.

Jeans, gloves, boots and belt, with a blaster pistol holstered on her thigh.

"Looking good, Mando," mused Aayla who asked, "also, what's this persona's name?"

"Meet Kane Fett. When Death Watch had ni, Ni used te gai to cabuor myself.

It's been ner other gai since then. It's my name as Mandalorian mercenary.

I'm also wearing ner aliit's crest to send a message: the True Mandalorians are back with a righteous vengeance."

"Great, now let's get going."

"Let's take the Ebon Hawk."

Later.

Interior: Ebon Hawk, cockpit.

"Where did you even get this old ship?" asked Aayla.

"I found it with T3-M4 and HK-47, not long before coming to the temple.

I wasn't letting some classics go to waste or be dismantled by scavengers so I got them restored and updated with help from the Mandalorians." answered Galen.

"Good call, son," approved Aayla, "though I can't say I condone you having a personal assassin droid,"

"I didn't know he was an assassin droid at the time." replied Galen.

"I'm flying," said Aayla.

"But Buir, it's ner ship," protested Marek, "Ni wanna fly,"

"Don't worry, sweetie. We'll let Proxy handle most of the flying.

You can fly us home later. Now c'mere," assured Secura as he sat in her lap.

"Ok, mum,"

"You're so cute, and so full of light. You're my Star'ika," softly said Aayla who closely hugged her little boy.

"I love you, mum."

"I love you too, my precious Star'ika."

"Commentary: your relationship is adorable, Mistress." chimed in HK-47, and T3-M4 beeped in agreement.

Later.

Interior: Anzat, spaceport, Maggot's Cantina, evening.

Kane, Jayzaa and HK entered.

Buying drinks for patrons, Jayzaa put her arms around a few of them, "My round, boys! So, I've got a little problem.

Maybe you boys could do us a lil favour? I'm s'posed to meet with this Weequay, right?

So I came all the way here, and where is he? Dunno, can't find him.

And you ask me, snooping outside the spaceport's not healthy."

A Houk, a hulking creature with yellow skin and large teeth, named Gort replied, "I know him. I've seen him. Ship's docked over at a private landing pad."

"Oh, did ya, now?" asked Jayzaa.

"Uh, huh, but this guy don't fool around. Don't talk to anybody but Anzati.

Nice li'l Twi'lek girlie like Jayzaa don't wanna mess around with a guy like that," cautioned Gort who added, "and Gort don't want you to get hurt,"

"Aww, you're sweet, hun. Good thing I'm under the protection of a Mandalorian." chuckled Jayzaa who gestured to her companion, "Kane Fett here already takes after his Buir, Jango. And HK-47 may be old-school, but he's still got it."

"Sorry, I'm not sayin' where he's at, so there," replied Gort who asked, "Jayzaa, stay here with Gort! Yah? Where she can be safe."

Rolling his eyes behind his helmet, Kane thought, "Oh, brother." before noticing the adoring looks he was getting from some of the female patrons and staff.

"But, Gort... sweetie. It'd really be a big help if you told us where to find this guy!" brightly insisted Jayzaa who cutely looked him in the eyes with a pout as she softly added, "And I'd be so grateful…"

"Well… if you put it like that," conceded Gort who looked her up and down, then whispered to her before she hugged him.

"Thanks, darling," appreciated Jayzaa who kissed his cheek, and bought another round of drinks.

"Gort is always happy to help an Angel like Jayzaa."

"I'll keep that in mind, sweetie."

"Commentary: I could've just tortured the meatbag for the information." said HK who added, in a synthesized sad tone, "Dejected statement: it's been so very long since I've had the pleasure of interrogating and torturing a meatbag."

"Maybe next time." Kane chuckled.

As he approached, a certain Pirate called, "Can it be!? Jayzaa! My darling! So good to see you.

Ah, you're as beautiful as ever!" and bowed, "It is I, Hondo Ohnaka at your service once again."

Hondo was a Weequay male with brown leathery skin, grey eyes, black hair in dreadlocks, and wore a long sleeved white shirt, dark brown jeans, black boots, a helmet-like hat, green tinted goggles, and a red sleeveless coat.

Turning to Jayzaa, Kane quipped, "This is not the Weequay we're looking for… yet."

"Ah! You wound me, my boy." melodramatically gasped Hondo who clutched his heart and pretended to stumble.

"Innocent question: Master, can I please torture this annoying meatbag?" asked HK, with synthesized enthusiasm.

"Just because you say something's an innocent question doesn't mean it is," chuckled the boy, "stand down, beskar'vod."

Jayzaa pulled Hondo into a hug, "Hondo, sweetie, you may not be the one we came for, but I'm sure you're the one we need.

How about we discuss business over a drink, hun?"

"Ah! Yes, that is an excellent idea! And, surprisingly, it didn't come from me." agreed Hondo who cheerfully sat down with the Twi'lek and Mandalorian.

As Kane took off his helmet, Hondo looked at him curiously, "You know you remind me of a great man I know, besides myself.

Kane Fett, was your name, child? Any relation to my good friend, Jango Fett?

You're both Mandalorian, and you sport the same crest."

"Jango's ner Buir." answered Kane, "Bal Jayzaa's ner Buir."

"Ah, so it is you, my young friend.

And I take it we'll get along if I keep my hands to myself unless I have permission, and mind my manners around your dear mother?"

"Yes, that's the deal, Jack Sparrow. Break it, and I'll collect your bounty, myself."

"Very good, very good. It's a dangerous galaxy, so this Rylothian Angel is fortunate to have you with her."

Later.

Exterior: Anzat, spaceport, private landing pad, evening.

After sneaking into a ship and downloading its computer logs, the two agents disembarked before Jayzaa was suddenly attacked by Bok, knocking her off her feet.

"I remember you, Twi'lek! You took my arm! Now I'll take your life!" vowed Bok before being defeated in a brief duel.

Kane and Jayzaa hid themselves and Bok's body under some grates as they heard someone coming.

Overhearing a conversation, Kane recorded using his helmet as someone's voice stood out.

A familiar female voice asked, "Who's my target? And you better give me a deposit."

"Queen Amidala. She's attending a dinner party tonight.

She's friends with Anakin Skywalker, a Jedi who is attending.

He will suffer most severely from her death.

The dogmatic Jedi Council's lack of sympathy and empathy, and inability to comfort him will push him towards the dark side.

With careful grooming, I will turn him into my new apprentice.

And with the Chosen One as my apprentice, the Sith shall finally have our revenge."

"I really don't care about your agenda, creeper. Politicians and kids cost extra."

"Kill Queen Amidala and you will be well rewarded."

"Yes, Lord Sidious ." replied Aurra Sing, with a subtle hint of resentment, before she cut the transmission.

Silently sneaking up on her, Kane appeared a few metres behind the bounty huntress with his blasters drawn, and said, in a modulated voice, "Aurra Sing, Ni liser bring gar o'r warm, ra Ni liser bring gar o'r ciryc."

Turning around, Sing laughed, "Hahahaha, oh, you're adorable," before reaching for her blasters which were suddenly shot out of her hands.

"Quite a little quick-draw, aren't you?" praised Aurra.

"Ni had a jate teacher."

As Kane suddenly fired a grappling hook from his vambrace, tying her arms to her sides, she asked, "Really? You think tying me up a little will stop me?" before cutting herself free with a lightsaber she called to her hand with the Force.

"Jetii! Ra are gar Dar'jetii?" snarled Kane as he detached the cable and shot stun bolts at her.

Deflecting blaster bolts, Sing questioned, "I'm neither, and are you insane?"

"Possibly," replied Kane who holstered his blasters, drew his saber and took a stance.

Sing fiercely slashed, swung and lunged at him, only to be blocked each time by Kane's use of a reverse gripped Soresu and Niman.

20 mins later.

"What the hell is happening right now?" asked an astonished Aurra between strikes, "How're you doing this?"

"Again: Ni had a jate teacher," replied Kane who cut off her utility belt, harness, holsters and antenna, then used a flamethrower which Sing narrowly dodged but her outfit caught fire.

To her frustration and irritation, Aurra had to shed her orange, low-cut skin-tight outfit, leaving her in nothing but her bra and briefs.

"Blast! This has to be a spice dream," hissed a pissed Aurra, "This can't be happening," before being hit by electric judgement, frying her cybernetics, "Ahh!"

Securely stun-cuffing an unconscious Aurra's hands and elbows behind her back, Kane sighed, "I'm sorry, Aurra."

He searched his quarry for any additional gadgets and tools whilst downloading her communication logs which he then verified the authenticity of.

"Wow… you just captured Aurra Sing. Also, we should get going. Don't need a scene, do we?" asked Jayzaa.

"No, we don't… Now let's get back to the ship, and lock her in the brig."

Feeling cheeky, Jayzaa looked their prisoner up and down whilst doing a full pat down search and copping a feel, "She's pretty damn hot, isn't she?

Got curves in all the right places."

With a raised eyebrow behind his helmet, Kane tilted his head slightly, "No comment," then asked, "can I go back to the cantina?

I have some unfinished personal business to take care of."

Hesitant, Jayzaa nodded, "Ok, but be careful, lil 'un."

Momentarily thereafter.

Exterior: Anzat, maggot's cantina, evening.

Standing a few feet away from an old enemy and various patrons including bounty hunters, Kane called him out, "Traitor!"

Turning to the boy as he rose from a seat, Montross asked, "Haven't seen that crest in a while. What do you want, kid?"

Kane tossed a bounty puck onto a nearby table which projected a hologram.

"Easy there, little one." taunted Montross as he stood over the boy.

The young Mando said, "Ni liser bring gar o'r warm, ra Ni liser bring gar o'r ciryc."

Onlookers backed away to give the hunter and his quarry some space.

"So, it's just you and me… Kane Fett."

Drawing his westar-34s a split second faster than Montross, Kane gunned him down but took a blaster bolt to his helmet, leaving it dented and knocking him over.

But he recovered mid-fall and landed on his feet whilst he twirled his guns and holstered them.

Rako Hardeen chuckled, "Damn, the kid took out Montross."

"That's no ordinary kid. that's Kane Fett." said Bossk, "Jango Fett's son."

"I heard he messed up the Death Watch." gossiped Dengar.

Soon thereafter.

Interior: Ebon Hawk.

Dragging Montross's carcass aboard with a little help from the Force, Galen informed, "Ni have some business on Nevarro bal Concord Dawn."

As her eyes widened, Aayla asked, "Who's he?"

"This scum is Montross. He's an ally of Death Watch, and a traitor.

There's a t'ad million credit bounty on kaysh head, from the Guild."

"Great… also, do you want the dent fixed?"

"No, I'll leave it. I think it looks badass. Bal he's ner sol'yc solus quarry. And other bounty hunters saw me kill him."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, council chambers.

After hearing the report and seeing the footage, Mace criticised, "Marek, you are the most reckless little brat in the Order.

You really saw fit to confront a professional Jedi killer like Aurra Sing? Alone?"

Luminara pointed out, "Keep in mind, he's already one of our most prodigiously gifted, skilled and fastest learning duelists since Cin Drallig, Exar Kun, Ulic Qel-Droma, Dooku, Shaak Ti and Revan."

Galen casually stated, "Ni know Aurra personally. Ni used bah sleep ti kaysh." earning strange looks from the Council.

"Come again?" asked the Mirialan Jedi Knight who blushed.

"She often stays ti ner aliit. There's always something Ni found calming about her.

When I'd have nightmares, she'd stay ti bal comfort ni," explained Galen, "like a Buir does par val child.

She was ner first adoptive mum. Bal Ni kar'tayl kaysh darasuum as solus."

Several Council members sighed in relief.

Raising an eyebrow, Galen uncomfortably asked, "Do I even want to know what some of you thought I meant?"

"No, you really don't. You're also far too young to know."

"Are some of you perverted creepers like Palpatine?" nervously but jokingly asked Marek, earning some blushes and snickers.

Getting back on topic, Windu ridiculed, "What kind of idiot uses a reverse grip for Soresu?"

"The adorable one who single-handedly defeated Aurra Sing, when you couldn't," replied Aayla who protectively wrapped an arm around her little boy.

Plo asked, "Master Windu, do you have any idea how to praise someone?

Young Galen has shown great skill and control, and in response you've insulted him."

"I suppose he didn't do that bad, but his saber skills have room for improvement. And she got away."

"Soresu is a defensive form. The reverse grip is quite effective for the defensive forms." interjected Depa.

Even Piell pointed out, "She escaped from transport to prison, as she always does."

Looking at the little boy, Shaak Ti praised, "Defeating Aurra Sing is quite an impressive feat, especially for one so young," then added, "Though I can't condone putting her in a state of undress."

Galen innocently shrugged, "The last part was an accident,"

Mundi changed the topic, "It seems that Darth Sidious is real, after all.

Not just a figment of a frightened child's imagination."

"Dank farrik! Ni didn't make kaysh up!" snapped Galen, "Maul mentioned him before killing ner father!

Gar have t'ad brains, why aren't gar using either solus?"

The present company wasn't especially surprised by his outburst, but were by his choice of words.

After a brief pause as he calmed down as a disembodied voice heeded him to, Galen asked, "May I please be excused? I have a test coming up, bal Ni need to finish studying for it."

Kit nodded, "Go on, Galen. And good luck on your test."

"Thanks, Kit."

Mundi bluntly interjected, "There's no such-"

Holding up a silencing finger, Galen cut him off, "Do not finish that sentence."

"We are going to have a stern talk about your manners, youngling."

"Don't you mean you'll hypocritically drone on for hours while I try not to fall asleep?" innocently asked Marek.

Yoda chimed in, "Do or do not. There is no try."

Depa, Kit, Aayla and Shaak Ti erupted into laughter.

Adi and Luminara covered their mouths to muffle giggles.

Even Piell chuckled.

Plo smiled behind his mask.

Mace clenched a fist so hard his hand might've been bleeding.

Eeth sighed as he facepalmed.

Oppo and Seasee didn't even bother to comment.

Turning to Yoda, Marek asked, "Am I dismissed?"

"Before something else happens, dismiss you, I do. And well on your test, I hope you do."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, archives, library.

Having fallen asleep while studying, Galen sensed someone sit across from him, and opened his eyes to see Aayla.

"Would you like some help with your studies, sweetie?"

"Yes, please."

Observing his notes, Aayla asked, "How are your classes going?"

"So far so good. Having psychometry helps me a bit.

I was learning from ner birth parent's holocrons before coming to this temple.

Ni thought Ni had an advantage by using what Ni learnt from them in the real world.

Not just theoretically from the safety of a classroom."

"Have you been to other temples?" asked Secura, fascinated.

"After being rescued from Kyr'tsad, Ni went to Jheda, then to Tython.

A Guardian of the Whills suggested I do, to find a teacher.

It took a lot of exploring to find the right temple, and the seeing stone."

"Did you figure out how to make it work?"

"Ni know it did, but no-one came… Not solus Jetii came."

"Maybe the Jedi who sensed you were undercover, weren't sure how to respond, or couldn't come."

"Makes sense. Also, Tython is so much better than Coruscant, when it comes to Jetii temples.

The Order should relocate back there.

The only thing it's missing is Dexter's diner. But other than that, it's perfect.

Unlike Coruscant, Tython still feels alive in the Force, bal it has a pure connection to the Ashla.

There's no dha side aura, and the air's not filled with pollution like here on Coruscant."

"I'll tell the Council you said that. And the Order moved to Coruscant to be closer to the Republic."

"They closed the other temples and enclaves spread throughout the galaxy.

The only thing we're closer to is the Senate. Not the people of the Republic.

Jetii are seen as no more than myths bal fairy tales on some worlds.

Magic wielding enforcers by others. Or glorified, private police for the Chancellor.

Not the Senate, just the Chancellor."

"You're not wrong."

"Also, I don't get why the corporate alliance and commerce guilds have seats in the Senate.

They're not diplomats. They're corrupt bureaucrats in the Senate's way, slowing down the process."

"Agreed."

Later that day.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, classroom.

Whilst teaching history, Eno Cordova asked, "Now, which Jedi Knight was not a Mandalorian himself, but wore the mask of one?" then Marek raised his hand, "Galen,"

"The Revanchist who later became known as Revan. Revan: the Butcher. And Darth Revan.

He also held the military rank of 'Supreme Leader,'."

"And where did the final battle of the Mandalorian Wars take place?"

"Malachor V, home of the Trayus Sith academy, and where the Sith Triumvirate was formed."

"Very good, my young friend. Now where was one of the most strategically placed strongholds from the Mandalorian wars?"

"Onderon's demon moon, Dxun, was the headquarters and fortified backbone of Mand'alor: the Ultimate's war effort.

It's also the final resting place of Freedon Nadd."

"Bonus points for the additional details." said Eno, "And who can tell me the homeworld of the Nightsisters?"

Holding Galen's hand for reassurance, Maris, who usually kept quiet in class, raised her free hand, "Dathomir."

"Very good, Maris." praised Cordova, "And who else dwells on Dathomir?"

"The Nightbrothers," answered Maris.

Curious, Galen asked his friend, "Was Darth Maul one of them?"

Maris hesitated to answer, "Yes," then revealed, "and we unfortunately have the same mum.

He's my half-brother by kin. But he's not my family, and never will be."

With a reassuring smile, Galen promised her, "That doesn't change how much I care about you.

And if you ever fall to the dark side like he did, I'll be there to bring you home to the light."

As a tear ran down her cheek, Maris tightly hugged Marek who returned the embrace, "Thank you,"

"That's what family's for, Mari." said Galen.

Having overheard as she appeared at the door, Luminara greeted, "Hello, younglings."

"Hello, Master Luminara." replied most of the class, but Galen had left out the title.

"May I please borrow Galen?" requested Luminara.

"Of course." permitted Eno.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, council chamber.

As he stepped into the room, Galen asked, "Am I in trouble?"

"Not this time, young one. We'd like you to recount some of the details of your encounter with Aurra Sing.

Given it relates to Anakin."

"Oh… ok,"

As the session was called to order, Plo asked, "Galen, can you please recount the conversation you overheard between Sing and Sidious?"

Replaying the recording, Galen firmly said, "I won't let this happen."

"Oh, of your friend, protective, are you?" asked Yoda.

"Yes, if any Sith wants to get to Ani, they've gotta get past me first," answered Marek.

"Ugh, childish sentiment," groaned Mace.

"It's not childish, it's being a good friend.

It's really sweet that he's looking out for Anakin," replied Shaak Ti.

Inquisitive, Galen asked, "The Chosen One's meant to save te universe, right? Who says he won't need saving too?

You literally just heard a Jen'ari say he wants to turn Ani to te dha side."

Yoda, Kit, Aayla, Luminara, Evan, Shaak Ti, Adi and Depa smiled at the youngling in agreement.

"And if you both fall to the dark side?" questioned Windu.

Galen rolled his eyes, "Asks you who's already falling. You're always so kaden bal ciryc.

You already use te dha side to fight.

Gar duraan bal or'parguur Jetii who question, differently interpret, bal take more relaxed approaches to the code.

Jetii like ner parents, Dooku, Quinlan, Sifo, Qui-Gon bal Djinn." and had HK translate for him.

"He's not wrong," interjected Depa.

"Marek, get out!" shouted Mace.

"Calm down, you must, Mace." advised Yoda.

"I concur." the rest of the Council agreed.

"I will tolerate Marek to an extent as long as I don't have to train him," stated Windu, "he's not being my Padawan."

"Why would I wanna be trained by a stoic shabuir like you, anyway?" scoffed Marek who scowled, "Ni'duraa, hut'uun."

"Believe should train you, who do you, young Marek?" asked Yoda, interested to know who the boy thought was up to the challenge.

"Not An'ya Kuro . That's for sure."

"The Dark Woman?" inquired Ki-Adi, "I'd think you'd be a suitable challenge for her.

Many of her students were special cases or especially difficult."

"After what happened to Aurra because of that shabuir? Ner psychometry showed me otherwise.

Bal te seeing stone on Tython worked, but no-one came par ni."

Mace coldly dismissed, "That's the Force saying you're not worthy of or worth training as a Jedi." causing everyone in the room to glare at him.

"Shut up, you should, Winnie the Du." scoffed Galen, in Yoda's voice, earning amused expressions, and a chuckle from the real Yoda.

"I'll train Galen," firmly said Aayla, "he'll listen to me. He can get rather intense nightmares which I can comfort and calm him down after.

Also, he confides in me when he needs someone to talk to."

"Can you please summarise?" asked Luminara.

"This precious little boy's appointed me his new mommy. And if there's one person a little boy will listen to, it's his mommy."

Most of the Council smiled, including Yoda.

Unduli's heart melted, "Awww."

Kit grinned, "That's so sweet."

Galen smiled at Fisto, sensing the Nautolan's affection for the Rutian.

Ki-Adi frowned, "That is a dangerous attachment."

"Quite the opposite. It's a healthy connection. An essential part of the Jedi way is to connect with others.

To love all things. And to be compassionate." corrected Shaak Ti who pointed out, "A relationship without connection can lead to hatred, coldness and resentment.

To the dark side."

Plo added, "Master Mundi, yours and An'ya Kuro's lack of connection with Aurra Sing is undeniably strong proof of that."

Even Piell agreed, "Master Mundi, keep in mind, you have five wives with each of which you've fathered at least seven children.

For you of all people to judge this boy for having a mother and son connection isn't fair."

"Master Piell, they're only my kin. They're neither my family nor my responsibility."

Galen innocently asked, "Ki-Adi, do you love your wives bal children?"

With everyone paying attention, Ki-Adi dismissed, in a deadpanned tone, "Not in the slightest.

Attachments are forbidden, Marek.

Attachments, feelings and emotions have nothing to do with it.

I have no use for such things, nor do I indulge or acknowledge them."

Kit wasn't impressed.

Marek frowned, "So, you really don't care about them? About anything or anyone?"

"Again: attachments are forbidden. They're dangerous.

Furthermore: they can and have turned naïve children like yourself to the dark side.

Into agents of evil."

"You're the naïve one. You literally just said you have no heart.

You're so stoically detached you've forgotten compassion.

I guess Mace's not the only one off to see the Wizard for one.

You could give the scarecrow a brain while you're there, since you have a spare."

The Council looked at each other with mixed thoughts.

Yoda decreed, "Aayla Secura and Galen Marek. Master and apprentice, teacher and student you are.

Rare for one at such a young age, to become a Padawan, it is, young Marek.

But learning much faster than most, you are.

To your head, let this achievement go, do not."

Beaming with joy, Galen energetically ran up to and hugged the Sage, "Thank you, Yoda. You're the best."

The Council immediately sensed sudden waves of life, energy, light and joy radiating off the little boy.

"Your first mission, to Ryloth, go you will. Accompany you, Quinlan Vos will."

"Ryloth? Cool. And does that mean Quin's still training Aayla as his apprentice?

Which makes me like the Padawan of a Padawan?"

"One way to put it, that is. Though Knighted, Aayla Secura has been."

"Okay. And I already know I'll appreciate the extra guidance and support."

Mace interjected, "I must protest. I strongly disagree with this. This boy's not ready to become a Padawan."

In Yoda's voice and tone, Galen countered, "Ready? What knows you of being ready?

For 800 years, have I trained Jedi. My own council, will I keep on who is ready. On who is to be trained."

The Council exchanged looks and a few chuckles.

Amused, the Grandmaster said, "Something I would say, that certainly is."

"Master Yoda, it was disrespectful." interjected Windu, "Surely we can't allow this child to be disrespectful without consequences."

"Oh, from him, demand respect, you do. But with respect, treat him, do you?" asked Yoda, "hmmm?"

A month later.

Interior: Ryloth, Pol Secura's residence.

Every meal Galen had been given since arriving on Ryloth with Aayla and Vos contained a dangerously high dose of glitteryll, which erased his memory.

Though his spirit, willpower, psychometry, and strength in the Force made it extremely difficult to keep erased.

His powers lay dormant as he was mentally blocked on how to use them from the amnesia, at least initially.

But all of his knowledge and skills related to combat were unaffected.

The only things Galen and Aayla remembered about themselves were their names, they loved each other, and they were mother and son

The two were now on the run from a stranger who'd almost killed the now comatose Pol Secura who was saved by Galen just in time.

Later.

Interior: Kiffex, surface, tomb-like prison.

As a voice led them to a chamber, they found themselves looking at a tall, muscular Anzati man in dark robes suspended in a red stasis field, and a lightsaber displayed nearby.

Galen felt a chill in the air, "I've got a bad feeling about this, Buir."

The man telepathically guided, "Turn, little Jedis. Turn this way. Look at me!

From the moment you stepped foot on this planet, I sensed you both… your scattered thoughts.

I sent out my thoughts… my will.

I drew you both to me… for I have need of you, little Jedis. Great need."

As the man was freed by Aayla, she asked, "Sir… Master, do you live?" before being caught by the throat and struggling for breath.

"Yes, I still live. And I hunger! But not for you! Not yet! Others will come, then I will feed!

Others will come when they learn that Volfe Karkko wakes." answered Volfe as his bright purple eyes opened and he stood up.

"Will Volfe Karkko let go of ner Buir?" asked Marek, whilst instinctively drawing his saber, "or will he lose that hand?"

Gently releasing Secura from his grip, Karkko strode over to Galen, then tried to feed on and peek inside his mind, only to be completely shut out and experience a burning pain.

Recovering after 2 minutes, Volfe praised, "You're very powerful, my boy… very powerful indeed

I assure you, I bear no ill will towards you or your sweet mother."

"For your sake, that better be true. You're the Anzati, but I can feel your own fear."

Curious, Aayla asked, "What do you desire from me, Master?"

Whilst using his mind-dominating powers on the amnesiac Twi'lek, Volfe extended his hand, "Join me… and I will teach you the true nature of the Force.

Become my Queen, and together we can rule the galaxy."

Falling under Karkko's spell after a short pause as her willpower was overcome, an enthralled Aayla Secura submitted, "Yes, my Master.

I pledge myself to your teachings."

With a menacing yet benevolent gaze, Volfe turned to the boy, "And you, boy? Will you join us?"

Aayla gave her son an encouraging smile and gestured with her hand, "Galen, son, come… it's alright, Star."

Though he didn't feel he could trust Volfe, Galen ran into Aayla's arms and hugged her, "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Buir. I won't leave you."

"So, my Queen is how I control this boy," thought Volfe who said, "You're making the right choice, our young Prince. Now Darth Starkiller."

"Ni hope so. I just wanna do right by bal cabuor ner Buir."

Volfe knelt and placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, "And you will, Son,"

Retrieving several small pyramids glowing crimson, Volfe said, "You both have much to learn." and held them out to the boy whose psychometry allowed him to instantly take in and absorb all of the knowledge and teachings within the Sith Holocrons.

Staggering back, falling into a chair, and rubbing his forehead, Starkiller sighed, "Now I know how it feels to download information like a computer."

"You have psychometry, my boy?" inquired Karkko, "that is a rare gift."

"I call it vibing." shrugged Starkiller.

Several months later.

Interior: Kiffex, Karkko's quarters.

Furious, Starkiller, wearing a Revan style mask, growled, "I've given everything to te dha side. Bal gar dare try to force yourself upon ner Buir!?"

As his eyes burned bright yellow, Starkiller, using both Juyo and Vaapad, furiously repeatedly slashed his saber at Karkko who was quickly put on the defensive.

Furious, Starkiller, wearing a Mandalorian neo-crusader mask, growled, "I've given everything to the dark side. And you dare try to force yourself upon my mother!?".

As his eyes burned bright yellow, Starkiller, using both Juyo and Vaapad, furiously repeatedly slashed his lightsaber at Karkko who was quickly put on the defensive.

An hour or so later.

Interior: Kiffex, Karkko's fortress.

As he was sent to confront intruders in the entrance, the young Prince came face to face with a battle hardened soldier with dark hair, wearing armour, wielding a green lightsaber, and a short Jedi from a species he didn't recognise.

In absolute disbelief, the soldier scoffed, "Oh, ha, a boy? Karkko sends a boy to fight us?"

Starkiller ignited a red blade from his lightsaber, having swapped the crystal from its usual bronze.

As Kazdan Paratus attacked the boy, Starkiller blocked and parried a series of clumsy attacks, whilst using his skills with a lightsaber and Paratus's obvious lack of to his advantage.

Disarming, then catching Kazdan by the wrist, Starkiller forced it back, surprising both older Jedi, then cast purple lightning, sending his attacker into a wall before countering another series of sloppy, amateurish strikes from Kazdan, then initiated a bladelock.

Having so far stayed out of their duel, Kota was amazed by the little boy's unprecedented skill and power, as was Vos who'd just arrived.

As Kazdan's lightsaber dropped from his hand, he looked down to see a red blade through his chest, then looked up and saw not the eyes of a cold-blooded murderer.

But those of a boy whose mind and heart were confused, unbalanced and conflicted.

Withdrawing his blade from Paratus's chest, Starkiller sent him flying back with Force push before slamming him against several walls then the ground, and incinerating him with lightning.

Aghast, Vos and Kota's eyes widened before they drew their sabers and began dueling the boy.

20 mins later.

Between strikes, parries, slashes, lunges, Force attacks, counters and blocks, Kota found himself on the defensive though they seemed evenly matched, despite Vos aiding him, "You're stronger than I thought, boy,"

"Shut up and fight," replied Starkiller who used Juyo, though Vos and Kota had no idea how the kid knew the forbidden form.

"Why are you doing this?" asked Vos who was blocking repeated slashes.

"Ni only remember solus thing: ner Buir. Ni will cabuor kaysh."

"Ok, that's really sweet of you, boy," understood Rahm as he narrowly blocked a strike before Starkiller knocked his opponents back with a mighty Force push.

Initiating a bladelock with the boy, Kota was aghast as he foretold, "Karkko thinks he's turned you, but I can sense your future… and Karkko won't always be your Master. But I can sense… me?"

Kota narrowly avoided being blinded as the young boy hesitated to push his blade towards the old man's eyes before leaping back, cutting off a bronze kyber crystal necklace and Mando pendant Starkiller was wearing, and telekinetically pulled them towards them.

Then let go as Starkiller pulled them into his empty hand, triggering his psychometry, making the dark prince fall to his knees and shriek in pain as he remembered everything.

It all came back to him at once, overwhelming him as he screamed into the Force and crushed almost everything in the room.

Extinguishing his green blade, Vos slowly approached the wayward Padawan, "Galen? Are you ok, kiddo?"

Rising to his feet, Starkiller looked up at and slammed Vos and Kota into a neighbouring wall using Force repulse, but only knocking them unconscious from the amount of power he'd chosen to put into it.

Breathing slowly, the boy turned to see Aayla enter.

As she knelt down to him and took off his mask, Aayla looked into his eyes, "Sweetie? What's wrong?"

Starting to shake, the boy stammered, "I'm being torn apart… Ni want to be free of this pain.

Ni know what Ni have to do, but Ni don't know if Ni have the strength to do it."

Aayla gently embraced him, "You do… you do, my precious little Star," and kissed his temple before Karkko entered the room, with a bound Ahsoka and Shaak Ti.

"Let us go, you son of a- Galen? Aayla? What? What's happening?" asked a frightened Tano as Aayla looked at the two prisoners.

Shoving the two Togruta to their knees, Karkko praised, "Well done, my Prince, Darth Starkiller. Son of darkness… heir apparent to Lord Revan.

My worthy apprentice, where there was conflict, I now sense resolve. Where there was weakness, strength.

Now complete your training."

"Strike true and fulfil your destiny. Kill your true enemy." ordered Karkko.

Looking up, Ahsoka shed a tear, "Galen, please… help us."

Looking into Ahsoka's fearful eyes, Starkiller… no… Galen Marek felt the spark ignite an internal fire he never knew was there.

With his mind cleared by the Force as his eyes completely returned to their natural ocean blue, Galen knew what he had to do.

Towering over the small Togruta, Karkko turned and cast his red Sith lightning at her, but Galen got between them, taking the blast himself and falling to the floor.

"You insolent boy! We could've ruled the galaxy together. Yet you'd throw it all away for a girl? So be it.

You will pay the price for your lack of vision!" vowed Volfe as he cast the full power of his Sith lightning at Marek who writhed in agony and cried out in pain.

As he slowly began rising to his feet, Marek felt the pain begin hurting less and less, then he absorbed the lightning into his outstretched hands raised at shoulder height.

As energy flowed through Galen, a thunderstorm began and lightning struck outside a window he stood in front of.

Suddenly, the Padawan's eyes turned a bright fiery blue as he unleashed a mighty roar whilst glowing with a golden aura.

Everyone looked in shock.

Ceasing his attack, Volfe trembled, having never felt such tremendous strength, "What is this!?"

Breaking free of Volfe's influence, Aayla felt her memories flood back to her, then she quickly freed Shaak Ti and Ahsoka.

Unleashing the full power of his lightning, Volfe asked the boy who'd donned his helmet, "You… what are you?"

"I am Revan Reborn! And before me, you are nothing!" answered Galen, using psychological warfare, whilst deflecting the attack back at Karkko and cutting him off from the Force with a wall of Light, instantly disintegrating him, leaving the Jedi speechless.

Returning to his natural state, an exhausted Galen removed his mask and closely hugged Ahsoka who impulsively yet gently kissed him on the lips despite their young age.

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Ahsoka Tano," said Galen before passing out, then Aayla lifted him up into her arms.

As he chuckled, Kota smiled and slowly got up with a grunt of pain, "Ok, that was adorable."

"Isn't it always?" asked Vos as he got up while grunting in pain, himself.

Surprised to see her fellow Jedi, Shaak Ti asked, "Master Kota, you've looked better after a massive hangover from being completely hammered.

And Quinlan, you don't look too bad compared to some other missions.

What happened to the two of you?"

Kota gestured to Marek, "He did," then turned to Ahsoka, "And what's your name, little one?"

"I'm Ahsoka Tano."

"You know… I have a feeling the boy likes you."

"I love him too." replied Ahsoka.

"Aren't you too young to properly fall in love?" asked Kota, in disbelief.

Vos chuckled, "It's the will of the Force, Rahm. And you're a hypocrite."

"Yes, I am... and I'm also in need of a drink, or twenty."

"Galen Marek is the boy's name," clarified Aayla.

"Marek? As in the Wayseeker, Kento Marek?" asked Kota.

"He's Kento's son. Jango Fett and I are his new parents." answered Secura.

"Fett? How'd a Mandalorian come into the-" thought the soldier, "Oh, no… it's that boy."

Vos turned to Aayla, "Do you remember who you are now?"

"Yes, Quinlan, and I'm sorry," apologised Aayla, "You've always been a father to me, and I almost killed you."

"I'll be ok as long as you are. I love you too, my daughter."

"This is all very heart-warming and touching. But can we please get the hell off of this damn planet?" whined Kota who asked, "Also, how in blazes did Karkko capture you, Shaak Ti? You're one of our best duellists."

"I actually had him beaten in a lightsaber duel, but he suddenly had his blade to Ahsoka's throat while using his illusions to cloud my senses.

If I didn't yield, he was going to feed on then kill her."

Aayla inquired, "Why did he want you alive?"

"He planned to turn us to the dark side as well. With his natural Anzati mind dominating powers. His affinity and mastery for both telepathy and mind touch.

And his strength in the Force, he might've succeeded given enough time."

"Dank farrik, that son of a mudscuffer!" growled Kota, "That's the cheapest move in the galaxy."

"Younglings present, watch the language." scolded Secura.

"Sorry, ma'am. Also, are you taking the boy's mask back with us? Could be a nice souvenir."

A little over a fortnight later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, Council chambers.

Having been given the all clear from the healers after a thorough assessment, Galen and Aayla were summoned by the Council.

"How, feel you, young Marek?" asked Yoda.

"Remorseful, ashamed bal sad," admitted Galen who couldn't bring himself to look the Sage in the eyes as a tear trickled down his face.

The whole Council could sense his sadness.

Concerned, Yoda asked, "On your mission, something bad, you did? Something you regret?"

With Aayla comfortingly holding his hand, Galen briefed the Council.

Sceptical after hearing the report, Ki-Adi said, "Karkko being burnt upon trying to feed on your mind is not possible, youngling."

Galen folded his arms, "That's 'Padawan,'. Bal gar said the return of the Dar'jetii was impossible too."

"Touché," conceded Mundi.

With a frown, Galen sighed, "Ni have a feeling some of gar won't trust ni, par a while, after this."

Clenching a fist, Mace frowned, more grim than usual, "On the contrary, you little brat. You never had my trust to begin with!

This incident only proves you can't be trusted at all! You shouldn't even be here!"

The present company wasn't impressed by Mace's response, especially when they saw the misery on Galen's tearful face, read his body language, and sensed his emotions.

Protectively hugging her little boy and gently patting him on the back, Aayla scolded Mace, "Don't you dare yell at him like that."

Ahsoka comfortingly hugged Galen.

Yoda added, "Comfort, young Galen needs. Not to be yelled at."

"Mace, that was completely uncalled for and unnecessarily harsh," scolded Depa, "remember Galen Marek's still a very young child.

Consider the long-term effects outbursts like that may have on his mental health, growth, development, personality, confidence and self-esteem."

"What Master Depa said," agreed Kit, "and I'll always trust Galen."

Luminara added, "Galen resisted the mind dominating powers of an Anzati as powerful as Karkko and the draw of the dark side.

Most would consider resisting the dark side, drugs, an Anzati, and a Sith's influence, individually, at his age to be impossible.

Even more so all four at once.

And he broke free from the reinforced mental conditioning he was subjected to."

"Something's only impossible until it's been done," chimed in Plo.

"Innocent question: Master, may I hit the meatbag Windu, for you?" asked HK before proceeding to punch Mace in the face anyway.

Frustrated, Marek asked, "May I please go, now? I've had more than enough of Windu's BS par solus day." and added, "I trust the Pirate Captain Hondo Ohnaka more than I'll ever trust Windu.

And that's not really a good thing. Hondo's a wildcard, and a Weequay Jack Sparrow."

Aayla held her Padawan's hand, "Let's go, my little Star. And c'mon, Ahsoka."

3 hours later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, training chamber.

Whilst he and Bardan were facing a platoon of training droids, Galen heard him get knocked to the floor so he whipped his head around, Force pushed the droid into a wall, and proceeded to finish off the last 4 droids before extinguishing his blade.

Firmly gripping each other by the forearm, Galen helped Bardan up before noticing they had an audience.

"Thanks," appreciated Bardan.

"That's what friends are for. We have each other's backs."

"One of these days, I'll be helping you up after you get knocked down."

"I'd welcome that. You know, you'd make a good Mandalorian."

"Is that a compliment?"

"From my point of view, it is. Since I'm a Mandalorian.

And I'd be glad to have you as part of ner aliit, ner vod."

"What does 'ner vod,' mean?"

"In this context, it means 'my Brother,'."

Bardan smiled, "Thanks."

Qui-Gon, Aayla, Obi-Wan and Kit smiled approvingly at them.

A jealous Padawan said to his friends, "Get a load of the little freak thinking he's so good. Marek's just an orphan pity case."

Ahsoka turned to the Padawan, "Shut up."

"Or what, you filthy little tail-head?"

Ahsoka showed her fangs, threateningly.

Having overheard, Galen called the jerk out, "Mardon, back off. Or you'll have to deal with me," and ignited his saber.

Drawing his saber, Mardon, a senior Padawan, charged and slashed at Galen who gracefully evaded.

"C'mon! Fight back, you little brat!" hissed Mardon, getting pissed.

"The fight hasn't started yet. I'm just seeing your technique… or lack of.

A broken protocol droid can do better than you."

Watching from nearby, Ahsoka chuckled.

"For kriff's sake, fight back, you little prick!"

"Language," responded Galen.

With a simple flick of the wrist, Galen nonchalantly disarmed his opponent, then swipe-kicked him to the ground, and pointed his saber towards them, "You're beaten."

"Screw off, freak," hissed Mardon as he stood up, called his saber, and angrily went to strike at Galen but became completely immobilized.

Using the Force to freeze Mardon, Galen asked, in a bored tone, "Are you done?"

With a slow clap, Kota asked, "You've made your point, boy. Mind releasing the punk so he can get his ugly mug outta here?"

With a two-finger salute, Galen replied, "Ten-four," and threw Mardon across the room before the jerk fled.

As the audience disbursed, Galen noticed Kota was still watching him, "What're you staring at? You want a rematch, or something?"

"If you think you can handle it, boy," chuckled Rahm as he took his stance and ignited his saber.

"The question is if you can handle me," said Marek as he took a backhand gripped Sith Shien stance.

"You know that reverse grip looks utterly ridiculous?"

"Well, it works for me." replied Marek as he began duelling with Kota.

Between strikes, Rahm said, "Impressive, you can actually keep up with me."

"Is that praise or arrogance?" asked the young duellist as he blocked yet another strike.

"Bit of both." admitted the soldier.

"Typical."

Galen switched to Niman and studied Kota's technique while they duelled.

"Are you going easier on me than last time, boy?"

"Obviously."

Between strikes, Marek asked, "What'd gar mean about ner future? And Karkko was never my master.

I'm not a slave. I'll have teachers, but not masters. So your foresight's a bit off."

"In that case, I guess over time you'll have a few different teachers, me being one of them."

"As long as I don't end up killing gar predecessors," chuckled Galen before narrowly dodging a slash, "Ni doubt te council would be happy about ni killing more Jetii, even if they deserve it."

"I'm surprised you weren't expelled after the first time."

"Windu and Ki-Adi heartless excluded, do gar really think the full council would unanimously agree to do that to a child?"

"Oh, Force, I should hope not," replied Kota who wondered, "How'd you get involved with the Mandos?" and narrowly parried a well timed lunge.

"My family was murdered in front of ni by Darth Maul. Te Mandalorians saved ni, then te Jetii murdered ner aliit, on Galidraan, while I watched.

As soon as te Jetii left, te Kyr'tsad abducted, tortured, bal tried enslaving ni."

Stepping back, Rahm asked, "How did you get away?"

"Ner Buir, Ba'vodu Silas bal Aurra'buir rescued me with the help of other Mandos.

Between time in captivity bal rescue, I befriended Freedon Nadd.

He was one of ner first non-Mando mentors."

"Wow, you've already had a really screwed up childhood.

And I know it's late, but I'm truly, deeply sorry for what happened on Galidraan."

After taking a moment for the words to sink in, Galen nodded, "I forgive you."

As their duel resumed, Marek imbued his saber with lightning and slashed at Kota who was caught off-guard and knocked onto his back.

"That was shocking." chuckled Rahm whilst getting up.

"And that was a terrible joke."

Sensing a coldness and hearing slow clapping, Galen clenched a fist as he turned to see Palpatine approaching.

"Impressive… most impressive, my boy." said the Chancellor as he reached to place his hand on Galen's shoulder.

With his eyes suddenly burning yellow and his breathing heavily, an infuriated Galen suddenly cut off the offending hand, stabbed Sheev in the lap, and sent him and his dismembered hand flying across the room, into a wall using a masterfully controlled Force push.

"Don't gar dare touch ni, Dar'jetii scum! I'm not gar boy, Darth Sidious!

Bal ni never will be!" shouted Marek, "You sent Darth Maul to ner home bal kaysh killed ner kin! I'll never forget that."

Several onlookers were aghast, alarmed, mortified and worried by Marek's eyes, change in Force presence, words and actions whilst several temple guards warningly ignited their lightsabers.

Hiding a scowl, Palpatine thought, "Insolent brat… it's a shame he cannot be tamed. He could've been a great asset."

Aayla and Ahsoka rushed over to Galen whose eyes immediately turned back to their natural blue as they warmly hugged him, and he returned the embrace.

A few days later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, council chamber.

"To a humanitarian summit, escort Senator Organa, you will." informed Yoda, to Galen and Aayla.

"Senator Organa? The really nice man from Alderaan?" asked Galen.

"We'll make sure he's well protected," said Secura, "and maybe he can teach my little star a few things."

Later.

Interior: blockade runner: the Sundered Heart, bridge.

On his best behaviour, Galen greeted, "Senator Organa, it's a pleasure to meet you, your highness."

"It's good to meet you too, my young friend," returned Organa who insisted, "And please, just Bail."

"I'm Galen Marek, bal this cuyir ner Buir, Aayla Secura." introduced Marek as he and Bail shook hands, triggering the boy's psychometry which taught him a few things.

Organa smiled to Aayla who returned the smile, "It's a pleasure to have you both aboard."

"Star, can you please tell the pilots we're ready to depart?" asked Secura.

"Ok, Buir," replied Galen who smiled before heading to the cockpit.

"Is he your son, Master Jedi?" asked Captain Antilles.

"He certainly is, and I love my precious little boy very much."

"I thought Jedi weren't allowed to love or have families,"

"A common misconception. We're encouraged to form connections.

Compassion is essential to a Jedi, but attachments are forbidden."

"That's just confusing."

"Agreed. The line between connection and attachment is hard to distinguish."

Interior: Sundered Heart, cockpit.

As he entered, Galen informed, "Excuse me, pilot.

I've been sent to tell you the Senator's ready for take-off."

Pilot smiled, "Thanks," and gestured, "C'mon up here.

I'll show you the controls while you're here."

"Thanks."

"You're welcome, kiddo."

Later.

Exterior: Alderaan, Organa residence, landing pad.

As everyone disembarked from the Sundered Heart, Galen sensed something off, "I've got a bad feeling about this."

Sensing it too, Aayla asked, "What is it?"

Suddenly levitating the blockade runner with one hand, Galen threw it into the air, almost into orbit before it exploded, alarming everyone.

Noticing a reflection from a nearby rooftop, Galen ignited his saber, leapt between the trajectory of the reflection and Bail, deflected a blaster bolt, then pointed to the rooftop, "Sniper!"

Indicating to a nearby building, Aayla said, "Get the Senator inside,"

"Get Bail outta here! I'll be right behind you."

"We're gonna have words about who's in charge, later, my very young Padawan," authoritatively said Secura before leading Organa to safety.

As she appeared, Sing asked, "That lightsaber… You again?"

Taking off his helmet, Galen replied, "Nice to see you too, Aurra."

"Well, this is awkward, isn't it?"

"Yeah… is this just business, or am I now off your life day card list?"

"Just business, and I'll always love you, Honey. I was offered a hefty sum just to send a message.

Your lightning fried my bio-implants which weren't insured. So, lightsabers only?"

He put his helmet on, "Challenge accepted, and you didn't need cybernetics to be a badass."

The two of them drew their blades, readied their stances, and began duelling.

Between strikes, she asked, "Did you forget me and Jango were amongst your first combat teachers?

Although you've improved, and learnt new styles so I was caught off-guard last time."

Blocking a ferocious slash, he replied, "Didn't forget, and knowing your fighting style helped."

"Also, you're already a Padawan? I never even properly became one."

"Believe me, Winnie the Du's not happy about it."

Between well timed strikes, she chuckled, "'Winnie the Du,'?"

"It's what I call that shabuir, Mace Windu,"

Parrying a slash, she laughed, "Hahahaha, ok, that's hilarious,"

"If you're the messenger, who's sending it?" inquired Marek whilst switching to reverse gripped Shien.

"Can't say."

"By the way, via psychometry, I learnt Darth Sidious is behind everything that turned you against the Jetii.

He's behind every bad day you've ever had."

Sing knew he was telling the truth, "Bit late for that revelation, isn't it, honey?"

"That's up to you, but I don't think it is."

As they kept duelling, she managed to knock him off his feet.

Using the Force to lift himself into the air, he somersaulted, landing on his feet with his saber in hand.

Then he sensed imminent danger so he turned and deflected a dozen or so blaster bolts.

"Quick little brat, aren't you?" asked a Duro in a brown coat and hat as he emerged.

"I don't think we've met,"

"Name's Bane… Cad Bane."

Galen cautiously circled around the landing pad so he had a clear view of both bounty hunters, "Bad news, there's a new Journeyman Protector in the sector, today."

"Well, any law man who gets in my way is my enemy. But your precious Jedi code prevents you from doing what needs to be done."

"Good thing I'm not a Jetii yet," dismissed Galen before engaging in battle with both bounty hunters, but Bane managed to grapple around his arm and send electricity through it.

Unfazed as he cut himself free, Galen sent his own electricity at Bane which fried the bounty hunter's tech.

Frustrated, Bane grunted whilst shooting at the youngling who deflected every shot, "The amount I used on you would've killed a bantha."

"Ok, firstly: that's rude. Secondly: stand down," advised Galen who narrowly parried a flurry of jar'kai strikes from Aurra who used two lightsabers.

"Surrender to a child? Never," scoffed Cad before being thrown over the edge of the platform by a Force push.

Galen sighed, "Dank farrik," before racing to the edge of the pad as he saw Cad lose his grip and fall.

Using telekinesis, Galen caught Bane mid-fall and lifted him back up to the platform as security arrived and thoroughly searched and secured the scum in a cell.

Later.

Interior: Alderaan, Organa residence, ballroom, evening.

As he and HK-47 were escorted inside by Captain Antilles, to see Aayla, Bail, and other guests safe and sound, Galen informed, "Gar highness, the bounty hunters, that I knew about, have been taken care of."

"Hunters?" asked Aayla, "You fought off more than one?"

"Mhi have Cad Bane, assuming kaysh hasn't escaped custody by now." answered Galen as he removed his helmet and put it on a hat stand, "Did I miss anything?"

"Well done, my young Padawan," praised Secura, "We have Cato, Hardeen and Dengar in custody."

"Is anyone hurt?"

Bail answered, "Thankfully not," then gestured to some of the present company, "Padawan Galen Marek, this is Senators Mina Bonteri, Mon Mothma, Garm Bel-Iblis and Onacanda Farr. And student Riyo Chuchi."

Galen greeted, "It's a pleasure to meet you all," then saw Queen Amidala enter with her handmaidens, "Gar highness, it's a privilege bah haa'taylir gar again, ner lady.

Bal Anakin sends kaysh kar'taylir darasuum."

HK said, "Translation: your highness, it's a pleasure to see you again, my lady. And Anakin sends his love."

"Galen, it's so nice to see you again.

Please give my warmest regards and my love to Ani." warmly replied Padme, confirming to Galen that it was her, not one of her decoys like Sabe, Corde or Dorme.

"As you wish, my fair lady."

Aayla didn't need the Force to figure out Anakin and the young Queen shared feelings for each other, and she smiled at the thought.

As he came over to Aayla, Galen apologised, "I'm sorry for acting like I was in charge and telling people what to do."

"Thank you, sweetie." said Aayla who hugged her little boy, "and now that I think about it, I have a feeling you were talking to the guards when you were giving orders."

"When I said I'd be right behind you, I meant I'd be covering your six after making sure we weren't being followed."

"That actually makes sense, but please be more careful, you darling boy."

"Yes, mum."

Turning his attention to the young Pantoran girl whom he approached, Galen greeted, "Su'cuy, Riyo,"

She smiled cutely and hugged him tightly, "Hi, what's your name?"

"I'm Galen Marek, but I also go by Kane Fett."

"I like those names."

"So, what're you doing here?"

"I'm studying to become the Senator of Pantora."

"That's really cool. I'm sure you'll be great." encouraged Galen with a friendly smile.

"And I'm sure you'll be a great Jedi." returned Riyo.

"Maybe we'll see each other around. Jetii do work with the Senate, for better or worse."

"For better or worse?"

"Some Jetii feel we're more devoted to the Senate, than the will of the Force.

Sacrificing our religious beliefs for the benefit of politicians."

"What's the Force?" asked an intrigued Riyo.

"The Force is what gives a Jedi their powers. It's an energy field created by all living things.

It surrounds us and penetrates us; it binds the galaxy together." quoted Galen, "Or at least that's how Grandmaster Yoda put it."

"I'm not sure I understand. Would it be ok if you demonstrated using it?" asked Riyo as the two stepped outside.

Exterior: Alderaan, Organa residence, rooftop terrace, garden, evening.

Gently using the Force to pick a rose, he slowly levitated it over to her whilst simultaneously growing a new one in its place.

As she accepted the flower, she smiled whilst blushing, "Thank you,"

"You're welcome." said Galen who received a hug, but accidentally fell backwards onto the grass, with her landing on top of him and their lips pressed against each other's.

As their cheeks flushed, they laughed at what'd just happened.

"That wasn't quite how I'd imagined getting my first kiss," giggled Chuchi.

"Fair enough." replied Galen as she smiled at him and their eyes met.

"You're adorable, Riyo," softly said Galen.

Then they lay on a nearby outdoor fold-out couch, gazing up at the stars and full moon, and hugging whilst she rested her head on his shoulder.

3 hours later.

Exterior: Alderaan, Organa residence, rooftop, late evening.

Finding Galen and Riyo sleeping peacefully, arms wrapped around each other, and her head resting on his shoulder, Bail, Breha, Aayla and Padme couldn't bring themselves to wake them up, but discreetly took a few photos and carefully put a blanket over them.

After gently kissing her son's forehead, Aayla quietly slipped away, but not too far.

The next day.

Exterior: Alderaan, Organa residence, rooftop terrace, late morning.

Slowly waking up to find themselves snuggled up to each other, the two kids blushed, burst into innocent laughter and smiled.

"Morning, Riyo. Sleep well?" casually asked Galen.

"I slept very well in the safety of my Mandalorian Jedi protector's embrace," cutely answered Chuchi who kissed his cheek, then he helped her to her feet and held her hand.

Interior: Alderaan, Organa residence.

Whilst he escorted her indoors, the two kids were met with some amused and smug grins.

The only unimpressed person in the room was Pantoran Chairman Cho, "Where have you been, you little brat?"

Galen got between them, "It's my fault, Sir, please don't be mad at her."

Bail interjected, "Ms Chuchi's been with me and Galen. I was personally giving them a tour of the grounds, and assigned Galen as her bodyguard for the duration of the tour."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, Galen's quarters, mid-evening.

Quietly reading the Qel-Droma Epics, Galen was lying on his bed when Maris and Ahsoka exited the bathroom in their pjs, "Su'cuy,"

"Hey, Galen." said both girls who hugged him.

Curious, Ahsoka asked, "Whatcha readin'?"

"I'm studying Ulic Qel-Droma, since Eno's given us the assignment on fallen Jedi."

Maris asked, "I'm doing Exar Kun for the assignment. What form'd he specialise in?"

"He's credited as the true Master of Niman, and an unorthodox variant since he has that special saberstaff. I have an advantage on insight into him and Ulic."

"You study too much," chuckled Brood, "you're like a cute nerd with mad skills." who snatched the book.

Trying to get the book as Maris kept it just out of reach, he had an idea as he saw the Zabrak's pj shirt had the bottom 3 buttons undone, partly exposing her stomach.

With a cheeky grin, Galen advised, "Mari, gimme the book,"

"Or what, Star?" cutely asked Brood before bursting into giggles and squirming as he gently tickled her until she conceded and gave back the book.

As he put the book down on a table, he asked the Zabrak, "Mari, did you know you have the laughter of an Angel?"

Maris's cheeks flushed, "Thanks," then they had a group hug before getting into bed and snuggling up to each other.

"G'night, lil 'soka. G'night, Mari."

"Night, Galen," returned the Zabrak, "night, 'soka,"

Ahsoka smiled, "Night, Star, night, Mari."

A week later.

Interior: Kamino, Tipoca City, cloning facility.

As he, Shaak Ti and Jango explored the facility, Galen was in awe, "Woah, it looks like I have lots of vode!"

Jango smiled at his eldest son, "Speaking of, Boba's doing well."

"Awesome," said Galen who picked up on something, "If they're meant to look exactly like you, how do some of them have different coloured hair and eyes?"

"They have ner genetics, but some details like hair colour aren't guaranteed to be the same." explained Jango who asked, "Would you like to say hi to some of your vode?"

"Yes, please, Buir. Also, does the faster growing thing stop, then slow down when they're in their prime? I hope so."

"Yes, it does."

"I wonder how Jaster would feel about this. I'm not sure the other Mandos would approve."

"He'd feel like making sure they're raised with the strong moral compass he raised me with. To make sure they become good men."

"He'd also be looking at the morals of this. In some ways, this is wrong."

"I know there's a mess of things to consider, but we'll eventually know if this was the right choice in the long run."

"How do you personally feel about it, Buir?"

"While everyone pats me on the back and tells me I should be proud of this, I'm not proud to have sold my DNA to breed cannon fodder."

Turning to Nala Se, a fascinated Galen asked, "How do you feed everyone? I didn't see anywhere to grow crops.

Do you import food and other supplies? Or do you clone those too?

Where do you get your medical supplies? Do you clone the ingredients used for medicines and manufacture them yourselves?"

The Kaminoan smiled, "Something like that."

"If you let people know you can clone more than people, you'll get a lot more clients.

Some worlds have suffering ecologies, and some natural flora and fauna of other worlds are nearly extinct.

Kaminoan science could save them."

"What do you suggest, young one?"

"Show people what else you can clone. You might gain permanent contracts if you help save or restore a planet's environment.

Ithor did it for Telos. Kamino could do it better."

"A noble suggestion. I shall discuss it with the Prime Minister."

"I'm also not in favour of the part about making clones more obedient, and less independent."

"Few are."

Shortly thereafter.

As he approached a dark haired clone cadet with a buzzcut wearing an orange crest, and one with short blonde hair wearing a blue crest, Galen said, "Hi, I'm Galen, your non-clone vod."

"It's nice to meet you. I'm 7567, Rex," said the blonde cadet.

"And I'm 2224. Cody." said the other.

"It's nice to meet you too."

As she approached Jango, Taun We asked, "What is Galen up to?"

"He's making friends."

"Curious."

"They are part of the family. They're individuals with their own names." chimed in Shaak Ti.

"An admirable sentiment, though you may be a little too compassionate," said Lama Su, "and I worry he may interfere with our education programs."

"Social skills can't be properly taught without diversity.

And letting the kids have a childhood's not a bad thing.

The conflict you're apparently readying them for may never come.

And we can't rob them of their right to a childhood."

"You are correct, of course. Shall we see if he and some of his… brothers would like to practice some of the simulations?"

"It would make an interesting test for him. And he could learn a few things about teamwork."

"Would his team know he has the powers of a Jetii, or see him as another vod o'r arms?" asked Kal Skirata.

"The latter will be more helpful to himself and others. Training without powers and you'll be less dependent on them later on."

Jango turned to Shaak Ti, "By the way, how horrified was your Council to learn that Aurra helped train Galen?"

Shaak Ti admitted, "I almost passed out from laughing so much at the looks on their faces."

As a pair of young clone cadets ran up to and warmly hugged her, one innocently asked the Togruta, "Are you gonna be our Mommy?"

Another little clone pleaded, "We'd all really love you to be our Mommy. Please? Will you please be our Mommy?"

Shaak Ti beamed with affection, adoration and happiness as her heart melted whilst she returned the embrace, "I'd love to be your Mommy. And what are your names?"

"I'm Fives,"

"And I'm Echo."

"Fives, Echo, it's lovely to meet you both. My name is Shaak Ti."

"Love you, Ti'Buir," said the little clones.

"I already love you too, little ones."

With an amused chuckle, Kal smiled, "Well, this should be interesting, Shaak. And you're one of the most beautiful women I've ever met.

They say Angels are born on Iego, but I'm looking at one born on Shili."

Shaak Ti smiled at the Mandalorian, "Thank you, Kal."

To Jango's amusement, Fives and Echo innocently asked, "Are you going to kiss mommy, now, Kal'Buir?"

Having a feeling the kids were going to keep insisting until it happened, Skirata asked, "May I please have permission to kiss you, milady?"

Chuckling at the formalities, a lightly blushing Shaak Ti went with it, "Granted," before bringing the gold armoured Mandalorian into a gentle kiss which they mutually found themselves enjoying.

As their lips parted, Skirata casually asked, "So, are you still allowed to be a Jedi, now you've kissed someone?

Isn't there some law or rule forbidding Jedi from kissing people?"

Bursting into laughter, Shaak Ti grinned, "That rumour always cracks me up."

"Fair enough, and I have to admit I never imagined myself kissing a Jedi. Let alone enjoying it."

"Likewise for a Mandalorian."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, classroom.

As it came to him during a history lesson, Galen asked, "Has anyone been keeping an eye on Korriban?"

Surprised, Madame Jocasta inquired, "Why do you ask?"

"Sifo-Dyas keeps warning us about a coming conflict. It could be against a reborn Sith Empire.

Also, Kreia warned Meetra Surik, the Exile, about all this too.

A revenge of the Sith that'd take thousands of years of planning.

It's been a few thousand years and there are Sith Lords out there right now."

"Be mindful of how much you believe some of these things. You could become paranoid."

"Ra blind and deaf to a solemn truth we neither want to see, nor hear, nor believe."

"Fair point… and Cordova had similar visions recently."

Changing the topic, Galen asked, "How do you feel about Dooku's resignation from the Order?"

"It was a loss to the Order. He was very independent of the Council, a trait he's passed on to Qui-Gon Jinn."

Completely innocent, Galen asked, "Did you love him?"

After a moment, Jocasta answered, "Yes."

8 years after Galen's parents were killed.

Interior: Coruscant, Dexter's diner.

As he and Aayla were having lunch with Ahsoka, Shaak Ti, and Depa who'd brought 3 month old Caleb Dume, Galen innocently asked, "Depa, cuyir Caleb gar ad? Are gar kaysh Buir?"

Caught off-guard by her secret being discovered by a youngling but relieved he was speaking mando'a for discretion of the topic, Depa confessed, "Elek,"

Shaak Ti came clean, "Bal lil Soka's ner ad," and hugged her baby girl.

Adoringly hugging Aayla who'd initiated the hug, Galen said, "Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Buir,"

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum too, ner precious Star'ika," returned Aayla.

"Awwww," thought Dex.

Interior: Ebon Hawk, cockpit.

Enroute to Naboo for an excursion with Aayla, Depa, some younglings, Proxy, T3-M4 and HK-47, Galen sensed someone else, "Su'cuy, Ahsoka."

Slowly turning to see Ahsoka peeking out of a hiding place, Aayla giggled, "It seems we have ourselves a cute little stowaway."

As Tano sat with them, she asked, "Am I in trouble?"

"Not at all," replied Secura.

Galen turned to Ahsoka, "Cuun invitations each have a +1. Would gar like to come ti ni?"

"It's a date." replied Tano with a cute smile whilst sitting next to him.

Later.

Exterior: Naboo, Theed, palace, afternoon.

As he gestured to an orange robed handmaiden, Galen introduced, "Padme, meet Ahsoka Tano."

"It's nice to meet you, Padme," greeted the young Togruta.

"It's lovely to meet you too, Ahsoka." replied Amidala before the young Togruta pulled her into a warm embrace.

With a friendly smile, Padme warmly returned the hug from Tano, "Awww, she's so cute.

Have you been taking good care of her? You'd better have been."

Ahsoka blushed with a smile, "He's been taking very good care of me.

He even slew a Sith for trying to hurt me."

"Wait, what?"

"A Sith tried turning him to the dark side when he had amnesia.

Killing me was a final test. Galen came back to the light instead.

Afterwards, we kissed, and he told me he loves me."

"You two are adorable." approved Padme.

"So are gar bal Ani," noted Galen, "also I took an idea from Count Dooku."

"What kind of idea?" cautiously asked Amidala.

Galen held out a very small object, "He used a twin set of these to keep in contact with his sister, on a secure channel.

Ni built a set par gar bal Ani."

Amidala smiled, "Thank you, Galen. That was very kind of you."

Ahsoka beamed, "I'm already shipping it, and I don't even know who Ani is yet." before bursting into innocent giggles as Marek tickled her tummy whilst hugging her.

Padme suggested, "Wouldn't it be adorable if Ani and Ahsoka were put together as Master and Apprentice? When he's a Jedi Master."

"Oh, I can imagine the mischief they'd get up to." chuckled Marek.

Later.

Interior: Ebon Hawk, bridge.

Sitting in a circle around the holotable with Aayla, Ahsoka, Shaak Ti, Luminara and Obi-Wan, Galen asked, "Truth or dare, Kenobi?"

"Truth." carefully selected Obi-Wan.

"Are you in love with Luminara?"

"With all my heart and soul." admitted the ginger whose cheeks flushed.

Shaak Ti turned to Luminara, "Truth or dare?"

Unduli replied, "May the Force protect me as I pick dare."

"I dare you to kiss your darling Obi-Wan." said Shaak Ti, earning a few mixed looks.

Going along with it, Luminara passionately kissed Obi whilst closely embracing him.

Then Kenobi tripped backwards, landing on the holo-table bringing Unduli down on top of him with her perky breasts in his unintentionally raised gentle hands.

"Oh my!" gasped Aayla, "this has become far steamier than expected. Shall we give you two some privacy?"

Galen teased, "If you lovebirds wanna get busy, do it on your own ship." earning laughter from his peers.

Blushing, Luminara and Obi-Wan got up, fixed their hair and headdress, and sat back in their seats.

A fortnight later.

Interior: Yavin IV, Massassi temple, afternoon.

Cordova, Mace, Shaak Ti, Obi-Wan, Aayla, and a class of Padawans and younglings neared the end of an excursion.

A disembodied voice, "At last…"

"I've got a bad feeling about this," said Obi-Wan.

"I am Master Mace Windu of the Jedi Order. And I order whoever you are to show yourself!" bellowed Windu.

As a spectral form of a man in dark armour manifested, the Jedi backed away.

"Who are you!?" asked Windu, in a confrontational tone.

Weary, Galen sighed, "That's our host."

Cordova was nothing short of fascinated, "A ghost? How interesting."

Etain turned pale, "This can't be good."

"Calm yourselves, ghosts aren't real," dismissed Windu.

Cautious, Marek replied, "I've seen otherwise."

Summoning his lightsaber, Exar Kun declared, "Jedi, I sensed such power in the Force. Your arrival has awakened me."

"My Lord, it's our duty to inform you that your return has been cancelled," announced Aayla.

Not noticing Secura's lightsabers, Kun dismissed, "My dear, I shan't be denied my return by a Twi'lek slave girl, no matter how beautiful she is."

Igniting her lightsabers and taking her stance, whilst everyone else did the same, Aayla replied, "How about by a Jedi?"

"Please pardon my most ignorant and presumptuous mistake, my fair lady.

To whom might I ask, am I speaking?"

"Aayla Secura of the Jedi Knights." answered the beautiful Rutian.

With a courteous bow, Kun replied, "That is one of the most beautiful names I've ever heard, Aayla Secura.

And it's lovely to meet you."

"You're surprisingly well mannered for a Sith Lord." observed Aayla.

"And you're unbelievably beautiful for a Jedi. Now, you'd be wise to kneel and swear your loyalty to me."

"And why would I do this?"

"For the greater good of the galaxy. I have the power to save your Jedi Order.

I will share it with you if you join me. I can give you so much more than what your Council offers."

Cautiously advancing towards the ghost, Galen held his blade ready as he questioned, "What could you give me?"

Exar Kun foretold, "Insight into the future. I see a great conflict on the horizon: the Clone Wars.

It ends with a great Jedi purge. The Jedi shall be betrayed by those they trust and swore to protect.

Your corrupt Republic shall be remade into an Empire by the one you call 'Darth Sidious,'.

He already controls the Senate. His influence and corruption runs from the highest levels of government to the deepest, darkest sewers.

But it's not too late. Together, we can stop him."

The Jedi exchanged looks of alarm.

"Who is Darth Sidious?" questioned Marek, "Give us his name, Kun."

"You already know who he is, but the Council didn't believe you, an honest boy, about the identity of Sidious.

What credibility would I, a Sith Lord, have if I spoke the name?"

"Good point."

"Join me… become my apprentice, young one. Learn to wield the dark side," invited Kun, "We can begin anew. The dark side is in our nature. Embrace it."

With a yawn, Galen declined, "Hmmm? Oh, I'm sorry, my Lord. I stopped listening as soon as you said 'join me,'." earning some snickering from his peers.

Slashing at Galen with one of his blades, having not ignited both, Kun was quickly blocked by Marek's bronze blade.

Testing the boy's reflexes, Kun performed a series of strikes, slowly picking up the pace, each of which were blocked, "Who are you, child?"

Galen answered, "A simple man making his way in the galaxy, like my father before me."

Exar turned his gaze to Anakin, "Has the Chosen One been found?" then returned his gaze to Marek, "If you will not join me… if you will not turn to the dark side, then perhaps he will."

"No," replied Galen as he stood between his friend and the spirit.

Taking his vaapad stance, Mace interjected, "Marek, stand aside. I'll handle this."

"Oh, will you, Jedi?" asked Exar who repelled Windu's attacks with ease, worrying the Master Jedi's peers, before disarming him and launching him into a wall with Force lightning.

"You cannot fight darkness with darkness. I believe the Mandalorian was my challenger," reminded Kun, "Has he anything to say before we begin?"

Galen called out, "For Mand'alor!" and took a stance.

"How nostalgic." chuckled Kun before the two slowly began duelling, studying each other's technique with each strike and picking up the pace.

"Interesting boy… if you last long enough, I'll give you my lightsaber and my sources of knowledge."

"Yours is epic, but I've already got a pretty jate one. Might look into building ner own version of gar design, though."

"Well, at least the future generations have good taste in their weapons," said Kun.

Galen imbued his saber with Force energy and slashed at him whilst using super speed to the extent he created an afterimage and found an opening.

Then Exar stepped back and ignited his second blade, "You sought to fight me, so prepare yourself.

You should be honoured, very few have faced both of my blades at once," then conjured a shroud of darkness, making everything pitch black.

"Ah, karabast!" exclaimed Galen.

"Can you fight in the shadows, child? Can you fight what you can't see?" questioned Exar, toying with the child.

Managing to keep up, Galen reached into the Force, "I don't need to see you to fight you.

Eyes can be deceived, the Force can't."

2 hours later.

"Foolish boy," whispered Exar as his shadow moved soundlessly around the young Jedi, "Without your armour to protect you, what are you if not just a child in a mask?"

Galen answered, "Ni cuy' solus ti te Force bal te Force cuyir ti ni."

Between strikes, Kun taunted, "Are you afraid of what dwells in the shadows and the dark?"

"Not anymore, because I know I'm not alone."

"Don't waste your potential as a pawn of the Jedi Council or the Senate.

Join me… I could be like a father or a brother to you."

"No, I have an aliit. I don't need anything from you."

With his eyes burning hateful yellow, Kun vowed, "Then you will die." and stopped playing around as the illusion faded.

Marek's peers were absolutely astonished.

As the young Mando was disarmed and knocked down, his helmet came off, but he stubbornly got back up.

Levitating and Force choking a terrified Barriss, Kun asked, "Mandalorian, are you strong enough to save this girl?"

"Let her go, Exar!" growled Marek.

"Give me a reason, Jedi."

As lightning surged through Galen generating an aura of Force energy, he let out a mighty roar as his eyes burned fiery blue, shocking the present Jedi.

"You will let her go!" bellowed Galen as his voice clearly projected itself, then the form of a Blue-Eyes White Dragon manifested through a Force illusion with a fierce roar and blasted Exar Kun with energy before disappearing.

Caught off guard as he was knocked back, Kun dropped the girl before resuming the duel against the Mandalorian.

Another 3 hours later.

Tiring, Marek was on the defensive as Kun disarmed him and blasted him with pure dark side energy and Sith lightning, before he could block it with the Force, whilst his peers were frozen in place by Force stasis.

Shrieking in agony, Galen felt the pain begin to numb as he slowly started getting up.

Ceasing his attack, Kun asked, "Still have some fight in you? You just don't know when to give up, do you?"

Despite being exhausted and low on stamina, he stubbornly rose to his feet, and summoned his saber, "I can do this all day."

As the Padawan slashed at the Sith Lord's ghost, he was parried before he felt a burning pain in his chest as his saber fell from his hand.

Everyone looked in shock and horror as Kun's blade pierced Galen's abdomen before being extinguished as he stepped back.

Then the spirit of a very beautiful, graceful, dreamlike human woman with fair skin, brown hair, and ocean blue eyes appeared, "Galen, together."

Sensing a familiarity, Marek knew to trust her.

Onlookers had no idea what to make of the unfolding events.

Casting a wall of light, the two Force wielders cleansed Exar's saber of its dark side taint as it came flying into Marek's outstretched hand.

Kun roared, "Nooooo!" in a vain effort to stop the young Jedi and his ally.

Guided by the Force and aided by the other spirit, Galen managed to banish Exar's spirit for good.

Placing a hand on Galen's cheek, the spirit of Meetra Surik smiled, "You look so much like Revan when he was a child," then kissed his forehead and cheeks, "Remember: the Force will be with you… always," hugged him, and disappeared.

Shocked, everyone looked at Marek in a stunned silence as he collapsed.

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, halls of healing.

Slowly waking up to find himself lying in a bed, Galen gazed into the cobalt blue eyes of a smiling Luminara, who wore a white version of her robes and headdress, with her olive skin glowing from the lighting, "Are you an Angel?"

Luminara's cheeks flushed as she had deja vu.

(Begin flashback.)

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, room of a thousand fountains.

As they laid eyes upon each other for the very first time, as mini Quinlan introduced them, chibi Obi-Wan shyly asked, "Are you an Angel?" making little Luminara blush deeply.

(End flashback.)

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, halls of healing.

"It's me, Luminara." answered Unduli.

"That's a yes." said Galen who cutely added, "you're ner cyare Angel from Mirial." who surprised Lu with a kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you very much, you sweet child," appreciated Luminara who kissed his temple.

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum," said Galen, softly.

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum too, Galen." returned Luminara.

As a sudden sense of worry came to him, he asked, "Is Barriss ok?"

"She's fine now, but she was a bit shaken.

Also, you now own Exar's saber. And he gave you his scrolls, schematics and holocrons." answered Aayla who hugged him gently.

A little too quickly, Galen keenly asked, "Can I see?"

"Since we don't know what's in them, the Council wants to assess whether they're safe before they even consider allowing it, or if they need to lock them away,"

"Okay. And I don't think Exar was lying about his warning."

"What makes you think so?" asked a fascinated Luminara.

"He literally told us how the war, Sifo-Dyas says is coming, ends.

We can't just ignore that."

Ruffling his hair, Aayla asked, "Shall we find you something to eat? I imagine you built up quite an appetite."

"I'll eat later. I just wanna see Ahsoka bal Maris." answered Galen, "and make sure they're ok."

After a final check-up, Luminara informed him, "It seems you're all clear and in good health, so I can discharge you."

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, shared quarters.

Entering with Aayla, Galen sat on one of the beds with Shaak Ti, Ahsoka and Maris.

"So, how'd it feel going head-to-head with Exar Kun's ghost?" asked Ahsoka.

"Nowhere near as exhausting as putting up with Mace," quipped Galen, making the present company laugh.

Shaak Ti chuckled, "Agreed."

"Ni knew Exar Kun's ghost wasn't as powerful as he was in life.

If I faced him, at this point in my training, while he was alive in his prime, he'd have beaten me easily.

Maybe even killed me if not for ner guardian Angel."

Secura asked, "Do you know who she was?"

Galen answered, "It was Meetra Surik. Now known as The Exile.

She rebuilt the Jedi Order after the Sith Triumvirate destroyed what was left of it from the Jetii Civil War."

Curious, Brood asked, "Were you scared when you faced Kun?"

"Not as much as I probably should've been. I wasn't surprised to see another ghost."

"Another?" asked Shaak Ti, concerned.

"Solus of ner sol'yc Force sensitive friends and mentors was Freedon Nadd's ghost."

Present company froze.

"What'd you two get up to? Plotting galactic conquest?" joked the beautiful Togruta Jedi Master.

"Nothing sinister since he led ni to believe he was a Jetii, at first. He told me history bal stories of past Jetii bal Dar'jetii.

Especially himself, Nomi Sunrider, Ulic Qel-Droma bal Exar Kun.

He taught me some languages. bal he gave ni his Jetii'kad bal holocron, te latter of which Ni opened ti ease."

Maris noted, "Sounds like you were informally a Sith youngling."

"Ni was a little over five. Ni didn't know any better. He was solus of te only nice people on Dxun.

Bal when Ni was rescued, I used his jetii'kad to cabuor others."

Shaak Ti observed, "Given the timing of his first encounter with Nadd, Galen not falling to the dark side is a testament to his resolve."

Marek chuckled, "So, I'm too stubborn for the dha side?"

"That's one way to look at it," sighed Shaak Ti who complimented the Twi'lek, "You're always so beautiful, Aayla."

"I was thinking the same thing about you, darling," endeared Secura before kissing Ti on the lips.

Galen innocently asked, "Buir, are gar bal Shaak Ti lovers? If you are, I approve."

With a smile, Aayla admitted, "We tried that in our teenage years. But we mutually agreed to remain very close friends."

The 3 younglings smiled.

"That's so cute," said Maris.

Bringing up a holopic, Aayla replied, "So is this."

Shaak Ti smiled at the adorable image of Marek and Chuchi.

"Awww, is that you and Riyo?" asked Ahsoka as she turned to Galen, "We met recently, and I can already tell we'll be good friends."

"Yep, bal speaking of friends," began Galen, "C'mere," as he brought Tano and Brood into a warm hug.

Shaak Ti mentioned, "On one of the rare occasions I had to go undercover, it went awry.

I ended up on Dxun at the same time as Galen."

Aayla asked, "How'd you meet while you were there?"

Ti admitted, "He came to my aid, defended my honour, stood up for me, and was very chivalrous.

He saved me from being the victim of acts too vile for the ears of younglings."

Secura smiled proudly at her little boy.

"It was rather embarrassing. A Jedi Knight being protected and saved by an untrained youngling Force adept.

And Force suppressors don't work on him."

Aayla asked, "Were you wearing anything special?"

"I was completely naked. But he didn't pay attention to that. Nor did he try anything illicit or unspeakable."

Maris asked, "Were you scared, Shaak?"

"Yes. I was terrified to be in such a position.

Especially since Togruta are predatory by nature.

It was the one and only time the council used an experimental Force suppression chip.

Not to mention there were Force dampeners and those lizards that block the Force around."

Marek asked Ti, "Ni heard Freedon Nadd calling to ni on Dxun, talking to ni. Encouraging me.

Could gar hear him? Ra sense his presence?"

"I couldn't, but I was quite shocked to find such a powerful Force adept as a prisoner of Death Watch."

Marek noted, "Ni was just as surprised to learn the gorgeous Togrutan woman I'd saved was a Jetii."

Shaak mentioned, "To my shock, he recited the Sith code but thought it was a Jedi code.

That was worrying."

"Ni had an Ashla interpretation, but I only recited its basic version."

"A light side Sith code?" asked Maris, "can you tell us in basic?"

"Peace of mind is a lie…

There's only the burning fires of passion and love in the heart.

Through the passion and love I feel for those I care for, I gain my strength.

Through the strength I gain from not being alone, I gain the power and will to endure.

Through power of will, I gain victory.

Through victory over my demons, my chains of guilt are broken.

As its light guides me through the darkness… The Force shall free me."

Aayla smiled in pride, "That's a very beautiful interpretation."

Maris chuckled, "He wasn't kidding when he said he'd done a light side version.

That sounds more light side than the Jedi code."

Aayla noted, "Galen, sweetie, we're also going to work on how fluently you speak basic.

Sometimes you change languages mid-sentence."

"Mum, I can actually do it pretty well. I just like confusing some people, and sometimes I want to be discreet with topics or what I say.

And sometimes it's a force of habit."

"Fair enough."

A few days later.

Exterior: Shili, Ahsoka's village.

Being greeted by a tribe leader, Galen, Ahsoka and Shaak Ti nodded respectfully.

Inspecting Galen's armour while Ahsoka was on the hunt, the Togrutan chieftain asked, "You're a Mandalorian, little one. Do you hunt as well?"

"I've slain beasts from Dxun, the Demon moon of Onderon, believe it or not." answered Galen who gestured to some fangs he'd added to his Mando pendant.

Shaak Ti confirmed, "I know that for a fact. We were both there for a duration of time before Galen came to the temple.

But I knew him by another name: Kane Fett."

The chieftain chuckled, "I've heard the stories about him from rescued slaves that returned here after being held there.

He's a lot younger than I thought he'd be."

Curious, Galen asked, "Has a human ever taken The Hunt rite of passage?"

Shaak Ti gasped, "Galen, don't even think about it. An Akul would surely kill you.

They say the scent of its odour alone is toxic to most species.

And the poison from its bite will instantly kill most species, and their bite will break their bones."

Marek raised his hands defensively, "I wasn't asking to undergo it… yet.

I was just seeing if it was a Togrutan only thing."

The chieftain said, "Only three humans in our history has dared face the dreaded Akul, and survived.

Their names are remembered to this day: Exar Kun, Ulic Qel-Droma and Revan."

As if on cue, the village came under attack by a large pack of Akul.

"Galen, protect the villagers!" instructed Ti.

Seeing 30 Akul circling trapped villagers, Marek called an ocarina to him and began playing it, which caught the attention of the beasts.

As they turned their attention to him, Galen noticed they smelt bad, but he was completely unfazed.

Drawing his beskar sword, Galen gracefully dodged between the creatures, and used a repulsor to knock another back whilst burning them with a flamethrower, then used his wrist gauntlet to fire whistling birds.

As he used his blade to fend off their claws, he suddenly gasped as one got lucky, piercing his stomach with a claw after tearing off the plates of his cuirass before biting his torso, "Agh!"

Turning to see the young Mando thrown to the ground with 3 Akul claws stuck in his abdomen and his helmet off, Shaak screamed, "Nooooo!"

Suddenly, Galen broke free of an Akul's jaws with a Force repulse, then pulled the claws out of his torso as the wound healed instantly but he was immune to the poison.

Whilst the ground shook, the Mandalorian let out a mighty roar as his eyes burned fiery blue.

Encasing himself in a barrier of pure energy, Galen glowed and his sword flew back into his hand.

All of the Akul suddenly turned to him, some of which cautiously backed away much to the surprise of the villagers.

To everyone's shock, Galen gracefully and perfectly blocked the Akul's follow up attacks as he cut them down with swift precision and speed whilst incorporating his gadgets and combative Force powers into his fighting style.

The villagers and Shaak Ti were both in awe and aghast at such a display.

Finding herself trembling before returning to her neutral, serene demeanour, Ti looked at the young Padawan.

As he turned back to normal and sheathed the sword, Marek received a scared yet proud look from Shaak Ti who hugged him.

Not letting him pull away from the embrace, Shaak Ti asked, "When I told you to protect the villagers, attacking thirty Akul isn't what I had in mind.

You could've been killed. Do you have any idea how terrified I was for you, just now?"

Galen apologised, "I'm sorry, Shaak. I really didn't mean to scare you."

Shaak Ti sighed, "Galen, you had me so worried, you poor boy.

How do you think it would've affected everyone if you'd died just now?

And not even a Togrutan Jedi Master like myself has killed that many Akul in a lifetime."

"At the time I was scared, but I didn't let that compromise my duty to the people I'd been tasked with protecting.

I was more focused on the group than I was on myself."

"If the Council thought you facing Aurra was reckless, they'll think you have a death wish after this.

You were undeniably very brave. Reckless, but brave."

After picking up his helmet, Marek innocently looked into her eyes, "Can we please stop by Concord Dawn on the way back to Coruscant?

The Mandalorians are the only ones who know how to repair my armour."

Shaak Ti smiled, "Of course, Galen."

"Thank you, Shaak Ti." said Galen as he claimed the teeth of the Akul's he'd slain and retrieved the pieces of his armour that'd been torn off during the fight, and packed them into a duffel bag.

Turning to the chieftain as he held out the ocarina, Galen requested, "May I please keep this?"

"Yes."

As she returned with the teeth of an Akul, Ahsoka's jaw dropped at the sight of Galen in his torn and ripped attire with some of its plating torn off.

Later.

Interior: Rogue Shadow, bridge.

Curious, Tano asked, "So… what happened to you, back there?"

Galen humbly replied, "Let's just say there were complications."

"Okay," said Ahsoka, "and it looks like you're lucky to be alive."

"Fauna always tries to kill me or befriend me."

Shaak Ti chimed in, "Using that flute to divert their attention was an interesting tactic. And it worked a bit too well."

As his holocom beeped, Galen asked, "Yes?"

"Is this Kane Fett? I have a job for you."

"I'm listening."

"A team of historians and archaeologists were investigating some ancient ruins to the east of Anchorhead.

We've lost contact with them, and our previous search party went missing too.

We can pay you handsomely if you can find out what happened to them, and bring back their notes and artefacts."

"My price is high."

"There's a million credits, 5 crates of pure beskar ingots, and what we believe to be a small collection of Holocrons waiting for you upon delivery of the assets."

"I'm on my way. I'll meet you near the spaceport to verify the authenticity of what you're offering." acknowledged Galen/Kane who ended the transmission before changing into his spare armour.

Later.

Interior: Tatooine, Anchorhead, hangar bay.

Meeting with the client, Kane checked the payment was legit, and asked, "What can you tell me about the exploration team?

Should I be on the lookout for anything besides sand people?"

The client hesitantly answered, "There may or may not be a live Krayt Dragon guarding the ruins."

"A Krayt Dragon? Oh, this should be interesting."

"Does that mean you'll take the job?"

"This is where the fun begins. And I'm keeping the Krayt Dragon's pearls if I kill it."

Shaak Ti turned to Kane, "My, aren't you getting ambitious as a hunter?

First the fauna of Dxun, then the Akul, now Dragons."

Soon thereafter.

Exterior: Tatooine, Eastern Dune Sea, abandoned sarlacc pit and caves, ancient ruins.

As he neared the coordinates after taking a landspeeder, Kane sensed a strong dark side aura and 3 Krayt Dragons, one of which was a Greater Krayt dragon, "Oh, this won't end well."

Two hours later.

Interior: Tatooine, Eastern Dune Sea, ancient ruins.

Having somehow survived and slain the beasts, an exhausted Kane entered the ruins and retrieved what he was after before approaching an ancient structure.

It was free-standing with three arms which unfolded, revealing a map of the galaxy.

Observing some highlighted planets on the map, Kane said to himself, "Tatooine, Kashyyyk, Dantooine, Manaan and Korriban.

I guess the dragons were guarding this place… wait, I've seen this place before… in dreams."

After downloading the map onto his datapad, Kane returned to Anchorhead.

A day later.

Exterior: Concord Dawn, Mandalorian stronghold.

Entering the front gate in what was left of his spare armour, Galen greeted, "Su'cuy, Ba'vodu Silas. It's jate to see you."

"Su'cuy, lil' un." greeted Silas, "what happened to you?"

"A hard job." replied Marek.

"Let's get you to the armorer."

"Fair warning: I need both suits fixed."

"What's in the crates?"

"Reclaimed beskar. I doubt my last client expected me to survive something so poetic when they offered enough beskar to make armour for a platoon."

"Poetic?"

"This Mandalorian Knight slew Krayt Dragons. I have holopics and footage as proof."

"You couldn't wait till you were older and more experienced to hunt that prey?"

"It was a complication on the job."

"You basically took the rite of passage, unsupervised."

Interior: Concord Dawn, Mandalorian stronghold, forge.

Entering as a woman in red and grey armour turned to him, Galen greeted, "Su'cuy,"

"Su'cuy, Galen Marek, Kane Fett."

Galen requested, "Both ner suits of armour have sustained heavy damage. Ti gar kind permission, Ni need them repaired." and unloaded his bag onto a table.

"Indeed."

As the crates were hover trolleyed in, Marek said, "As payment for ner last job, Ni was paid o'r pure beskar mhi liser use par upgrades."

Three hours later.

Exterior: Concord Dawn, Mando stronghold.

Wearing one of his repaired and upgraded suits, Galen approached his companions, "Su'cuy."

Ahsoka looked in awe, "Wow, you look great."

Shaak observed, "I see you kept the dent in your helmet.

And you have a new symbol on one of your pauldrons."

"It's a Greater Krayt Dragon since I ran into Krayt Dragons on that last job."

"Are you like a Dragonborn?"

"Heck if I know," shrugged Galen who held out the Krayt Dragon's pearls.

Ahsoka gasped, "They're beautiful,"

Galen smoothly said, "As are both of you." making Tano blush and Shaak Ti beam.

"Let's get some drive-thru on the way back to the temple," said Ti.

"Or we could go to Dex's," suggested Ahsoka.

"We have time for both, sweetie," replied Shaak Ti.

Galen asked, "So, what do I do with my Akul teeth?"

Ahsoka questioned, "What do you want to do with them?"

"I'll have to get back to you on that, little 'soka,"

"Where did you even hear that nickname, the first time?

That was originally Papa Plo's nickname for me."

"If I'm allowed to call you that, you can give me a nickname."

"Deal, Starguy."

Galen chuckled, "You're cute," then turned to Shaak Ti, "and I'm sure she gets her cuteness from you."

Shaak Ti smiled, "C'mere, you two." and brought the kids into a hug.

A few days later.

Interior: Coruscant, Dexter's Diner, early afternoon.

Galen, in his Kane Fett armour, managed to convince Barriss and Luminara to join him for lunch.

Having never eaten fast food before, the Mirialans were pleasantly surprised.

Lightly blushing as she let Galen record her having her first burger and milkshake, Luminara found herself relaxing as she enjoyed it along with the company.

Having finished a sip of her drink, through her straw, Barriss abruptly giggled as he playfully tickled her tummy, "Hehehe Star, hehehe as hehehe nice hehehe and hehehe relaxing hehehe as hehehe that hehehehe feels, hehehe please hehehehe not hehehe while hehehe I'm hehehe eating, hehehe."

"Ok, Barr." said Galen who got back to his own food.

Wiping her mouth with a napkin, Barriss smiled at her friend, "Thank you for this."

"My pleasure," assured Galen.

Luminara chuckled, "If my old Master saw us eating this, he'd be furious. Which makes it all the more satisfying.

The best revenge to take on someone who makes your life hell is to have as much fun as you can."

Barriss smiled, "Agreed."

Shortly thereafter.

Finishing her meal, Barriss warmly hugged the Mandalorian, "Thank you for treating us to lunch.

You're a good friend."

"Anytime," replied Marek as he smiled at her.

Luminara couldn't help but smile as she finished her meal and wiped her mouth with a napkin, "Perhaps Quinlan can make some venue recommendations."

Barriss nodded, "I'm sure he has some interesting places to recommend. Unless I'm mistaken, he was one of your best friends growing up."

"Indeed, though due to him always being on assignments far away, it's been quite some time since we've properly caught up with each other."

"You could get Obi-Wan to propose to you, and have Quin be the best man or minister." suggested Offee.

"Marrying Ben does sound quite lovely."

Galen asked, "Ben?"

"Obi-Wan and I sometimes sneak out of the temple for dates.

Ben is a very common name which suits him, so we use it as his nickname.

And he calls me Lilly."

The two kids smiled, "Awww."

Marek mentioned, "Ner gai, outside the Order, cuyir Kane Fett. For various purposes."

Unduli nodded, "So I've heard."

As a certain ginger walked in, he greeted, "Hello there."

Rising from her seat, Luminara smiled, "Ben!" and warmly hugged Obi-Wan who returned the gesture.

Marek winked to Barriss as Unduli and Kenobi quickly shared a kiss while nobody was looking.

Obi smiled, "What brings you to this fine establishment, Lilly?"

"It was Galen's idea. It's quite a coincidence that we're both here at the same time."

Barriss and Galen innocently suggested, "Or the will of the Force."

Amused, Kenobi asked, "By the will of the Force? Or have we been set up by two little matchmakers?"

In a perfect impression of Yoda's voice, Galen replied, "In mysterious ways, works the Force.

A healthy connection, love is. To live, a reason, love gives us.

Unconditional love, compassion is. If in love, you are, act on it, you must.

Together, the Force has brought you. Overrule the code, the will of the Force does."

The ginger smiled, "If wisdom you share, heed it, we must."

Luminara beamed and giggled, "I hope this is what it'll be like if you two become master and apprentice."

Later.

Exterior: Coruscant, Dexter's diner.

As the Jedi exited, they were confronted by a furious looking Mirialan man in charcoal black robes.

"Just what do you think you're doing, Unduli?" snarled the Jedi Master who ignited a red saberstaff, "It seems you're in need of discipline, little bitch."

Obi-Wan stepped between them, "Leave her alone!" and ignited his own saber.

Exiting with his helmet on, Kane Fett drew his sword, "Stand down, Dar'jetii."

Luminara, Obi-Wan and Barriss carefully backed away.

"What's this? A Mandalorian? You're an endangered species.

Ever been to Galidraan? I have, and I proudly killed some of your filthy kind.

And I knew they were innocent of what they'd been accused of."

Tossing down a bounty puck, Kane said, "Dou-che Baag, I can bring you in warm, or I can bring you in cold."

Taking a form VII stance, Kane parried a series of strikes from the Dark Jedi who'd once trained Luminara.

"This seems personal." said Dou-Che who suddenly found himself on the defensive despite going all out, "but why would Mandalorian scum like you know a Sith fighting style?"

Ignoring the question, Fett used a repulsor to knock Baag off his feet and shot the saberstaff in the crystal chamber just as it returned to its owner's hand, exploding an inch away from the lap.

"Agh!" grunted the bastard.

As his companions watched in surprise, Kane fired a dart at the injured Dark Jedi who stopped it just as it impacted on his chest with the Force.

"Did the power of the Force slip your mind?" asked Dou-che before a small needle shot out from the tip of the dart.

Hovering with his jetpack, Kane charged towards Baag and punched him in the face, knocking him to the concrete ground.

Kane pointed his sword to the bastard's throat, "There's one thing I'm willing to spare your wretched life in exchange for."

"And what is that?" scoffed Dou-che.

"You owe Luminara one hell of an apology for your treatment of her. Apologise to her now, or die."

"I don't apologise," spat Baag, "especially not to women. I enjoyed burning that little sl- agh-"

Young Fett stabbed Baag through the heart and incinerated him with lightning, then sheathed his blade as they sensed a lightening of the Force.

Walking over to Galen, Luminara knelt down and hugged him, "Thank you… both for keeping your promise and defending my honour." and kissed his temple.

"You're welcome," replied Marek.

Slowly shaking his head, Kenobi said, "Galen, the Council's going to be furious with you for using lightning, and killing another Jedi."

Luminara pointed out, "Galen Marek of the Jedi didn't kill that monster.

It was Kane Fett of the Mandalorians. They're different people."

Barriss added, "From a certain point of view. And he's also with the Hunter's Guild, fulfilling a contract."

Galen noted, "Also, that red blade's the type of red that comes from bleeding a kyber crystal.

Douchebag was a Dark Jedi. He'd committed crimes in the eyes of the law, bal against ner aliit."

Obi-Wan chuckled, "I still can't believe that's really his name. The name fits his personality."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, room of a thousand fountains.

Sitting on the grass as he tried meditating, Galen sensed a presence, "Ko-to-yah, Plo Koon."

"Ko-to-yah, Galen. I see everything's not floating.

Are you having trouble meditating?"

"Kind of… it's been a rough week."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"Can I lower my shields so you can see, instead?"

"If it's easier for you." replied Master Plo.

Seeing into the boy's mind, Plo observed, "You carry conflict in you.

Your loyalty to your friends and family vastly outweighs your loyalty to the Council and the Senate."

"I'm a Mandalorian. Aliit cuyir everything to we Mandalore.

Bal Ni kept an old promise Ni made to Luminara, during my first year here."

"What promise?"

"That her abusive old master will never hurt her again. That he'd have to go through me if he tried.

I consider her part of ner aliit, and I promised to cabuor her from him."

"It pains me that one so young had to make such a promise.

Had she come to the Council, we'd have dealt with him."

Galen opened his eyes, "As I understand it, he was once on the Council.

Would the Council believe the word of a child? Or that of a fellow council member?"

"Fair point." said Plo who asked, "Is it true you spoke with the spirit of The Exile?"

Galen replied, "Meetra… kaysh gai cuyir Meetra Surik .

Bal Ni did, briefly, after she helped Ni against Exar Kun's ghost, on Yavin IV.

She told me I looked like Revan when he was a child, and kissed me."

"Very interesting."

As nearly everything began to float, Galen levitated while his mind cleared.

(Begin vision.)

Interior: underground, cave.

Testing new spider-like legs, Maul hissed, "I was robbed of my destiny by the Jedi. By Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Revenge… I must have revenge.

But I shall be patient… And strike when Kenobi's vulnerable.

Even if it takes years, and years, and years, I will have… revenge on Kenobi…

Kenobi!"

(End vision.)

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, room of a thousand fountains.

Breaking the joint meditation as he landed on his feet, Galen gasped, "Obi-Wan!"

Plo looked to the young Padawan, "What was that?"

Solemnly looking up at Plo, Galen replied, "Obi-Wan's in danger. It's Darth Maul… he's alive."

"We must inform the Council of this development." firmly said Plo.

"Will they even listen to me? Or believe me?"

"I will vouch for you, given I saw it too."

"Thank you, Plo." appreciated Galen who noted, "And you kinda sound like Gandalf, which is awesome."

With an amused chuckle, Koon asked, "You have a habit of running into darksiders. Are you looking at the path of a Sentinel?"

"Sentinels hunt darksiders. And at least three have been on the wrong end of my lightsaber.

But the most powerful one I can sense is in a position of influence and power I can't touch without an intergalactic incident."

"You still believe Palpatine is a Sith?"

"Yes. I don't know why no-one senses it. His presence is like a Dementor from Azkaban.

Exar literally confirmed it."

"What would you have the Council do? They can't just march into the Senate and accuse him without hard evidence of any crimes.

Additionally, being a Sith Lord is no longer illegal."

"Speaking of illegal: the Senate's going to freak out when they inevitably find out what Sifo-Dyas did."

"What makes you say that?"

"Two words: 'Ruusan reformation,'."

"I see you've been paying attention in history."

"And my psychometry went off when I picked up the history holocron."

"You absorbed the knowledge of a holocron?"

"It's not like I can turn my psychometry on and off like a lightsaber."

"Perhaps you need to wear gloves so it doesn't go off as much."

"I was."

Shortly thereafter.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, council chamber.

As the meeting was called to order, Adi asked, "Galen, you had a vision regarding Knight Kenobi?"

"Yes," answered Galen, "I believe he's in great danger…"

Bored, Mace, in a deadpanned tone, said, "Define 'danger,'."

"Darth Maul is alive. And he wants revenge on Obi-Wan.

Sounded like Sidious abandoned, and maybe replaced, him since he said he'd been robbed of his destiny."

"And you expect us to believe you, boy?" scoffed Windu.

Plo interjected, "It was during a shared meditation with me. We both saw the vision. To doubt his word is to doubt mine as well."

Eeth chimed in, "I think Master Windu's personal feelings towards Padawan Marek are clouding his judgement."

Adi nodded, "I agree. If Darth Maul has indeed survived and is in hiding, Obi-Wan may have a problem when he resurfaces."

Galen concluded, "I think I know why Mace hates me so much.

He's so stoically, strictly adherent to the code to an unhealthy, narrow-minded extreme.

Meanwhile, I'm the son of two Jetii Masters who lived a full life they chose of their own free will."

"That wasn't their choice to make." hissed Windu, "they had a duty to the Order and they threw it away."

"Do you even hear yourself? They followed their hearts and there's nothing wrong with that."

"It was a reckless accident, just like your birth." growled Windu, disgusting his peers.

Though internally seething with rage, Galen refused to be baited, "Nothing happens by accident. It is by the will of the Force they fell in love, and that I came to be."

"Heeding the wisdom of Qui-Gon, he is." observed Yoda who noticed, "something more to share, you have, young Marek?"

Galen venomously asked, "You wanna know the difference between Mace Windu and the monster who murdered my parents and siblings?"

"Do enlighten us, young one." replied Ki-Adi.

"His lightsaber was red." coldly answered Galen, earning mixed looks of shock.

"Ouch." commented Kit.

Sensing Windu's anger and seeing the look on his face, Marek casually mentioned, "Exar Kun and Freedon Nadd had better manners than Windu."

"To tell us, been meaning to, something you have?" inquired Yoda.

"The reason there's no dark side taint within Freedon Nadd's shoto or Dxun anymore.

It's because, last time he and I spoke, I redeemed him." revealed Marek, earning mixed reactions and looks from the Council.

"How?"

"I didn't see a Dark Lord of the Sith.

I saw a broken shadow of a literal kindred spirit full of regret.

Ba'buir Jaster would've shown such a man compassion, so I did.

I talked to him, and convinced him he could return to the light."

Mundi interjected, "One cannot redeem a Sith Lord. That's impossible."

"Ulic Qel-Droma and Revan say hi."

"Touché."

Months later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, dojo.

"You're doing great, Caleb." said Galen while helping Dume practice his form movements.

"Thanks. Is it true Aurra Sing helped train you before you joined the Order?"

"It sure is, but I'm not using her fighting style against you.

And she's not evil like people claim."

"What is she?" asked Caleb whilst readying a Soresu stance.

"A kindred spirit. If you knew her story, you'd probably try and hug her."

"If you say so," said Caleb who asked, "is it true you fought Exar Kun?"

"I lost that fight, but yes. Although I was able to stop him with help from a guardian angel."

As she approached, a woman with long gray hair and dark robes said, "So there is a Mandalorian in the Order."

Pausing practice, Marek sensed her, "The Dark Woman, I assume? What do you want?"

"Such resentment in your tone. Is that Aurra, I hear?" asked An'ya Kuro.

"What do you want, Kuro?" spitefully asked Marek.

"To train you."

Turning to her with a blank expression, Galen replied, "Go to hell." before resuming practice with Caleb.

"Do I need to be a busty tail-head dressed like an entertainer to be your teacher?" meanly asked Kuro, causing the Padawan and youngling to pause and extinguish their blades.

Resisting the obvious bait, Galen gently ruffled Caleb's hair, "Gar did a jate job, Cal'ika.

Why don't we take a break? I'll buy you lunch and take you to see your first race."

Slightly cheeky, Caleb beamed, "Okay, Dad. Can I bring friends?"

"Sure thing, sport. Let's see if mommy wants to come too." casually replied Marek before leaving the room with Dume.

Stunned, An'ya asked herself, "What the hell just happened?"

"What's wrong with you, An'ya?" asked a disgusted Quinlan, Kit, Kota, Piell and Qui-Gon Jinn.

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, race track.

Whilst getting good seats with Ahsoka, Galen, Depa and Aayla, Caleb chuckled, "I wonder how confused the mean lady is right now."

Aayla inquired, "The mean lady?"

"The Dark Woman. We left her really confused in the Dojo."

Amused, Ahsoka wondered, "What'd you do?"

"We pretended we were a father and son, which was practice for drama class. We recorded the whole thing too.

Since Galen always records his practice sessions for Proxy's database, and so he can check his own progress."

"We're watching that when we get back, Caleb," softly said Depa as she hugged her little boy who sat on her lap.

As the races began, Caleb asked, "Can we bet on the race?"

"Absolutely not." chuckled Depa.

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Dexter's diner, early evening.

Whilst ordering some smoothies, Galen asked, "How much do I owe you, Dex?"

"They're on the house this time, my friend."

"What's my order number?"

"Your number is order 66." said Dex as he handed Galen an order ticket, then, in a concerned tone, asked, "Are you ok? You don't look so good."

As he heard an echo in the Force, Galen's vision blurred before he suddenly passed out with a thud.

"Galen!" gasped Aayla.

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, halls of healing.

Waking up in a medical bed, Galen took in his surroundings, "What happened?"

As she checked on the Padawan, Luminara replied, "That was something I hoped you may be able to shed some light on."

"I heard something through the Force. It was an executive order being given to soldiers… by Sidious."

"What'd it say?" asked Aayla, concerned.

"'Execute Order 66,'." quoted Marek, "I'm not sure what it means, but it might be foreshadowing something terrible.

Maybe it's connected to the conflict Sifo-Dyas says foresaw, or the purge Exar mentioned."

"We'll make note of it for future reference just to be safe," said Unduli.

"Also, executive orders can only be given by the Senate or the Chancellor.

Sidious being in a position to give one only makes me more suspicious of the latter."

"We really need everything we know related to Sidious in a case file."

A week later.

Interior: Alderaan, Organa residence, party, evening.

Galen as Kane Fett, and Aayla in a predominantly purple and black dress with a deep V-neck cleavage window, black nylons, dancing shoes and gold jewelry, met with Obi-Wan who wore his robes.

As he sensed a presence in the Force, Kane said, "Be right back."

Obi-Wan nodded, "Be careful."

"Hey, it's me,"

"That's why we're telling you to be careful." chuckled Aayla.

"Love you too."

Exterior: Alderaan, Organa residence, party, balcony, evening.

Kane asked a cloaked female figure in the shadows, "I know you're there.

It's pretty cold out here. Why don't you come indoors where it's warm?

Want something to eat? Or a hot drink?"

Revealing herself from the shadows, she ignited a pair of green and blue blades and slashed repeatedly at him.

Drawing his sword, he blocked a flurry of attacks, "I'm sorry. Did I offend you, or something?"

"No."

"Why are you trying to kill me?"

"You're Death Watch, aren't you?"

Unamused, he stepped back and answered, "Firstly: I'm a True Mandalorian.

Secondly: I'm not Death Watch, they're my enemy.

Thirdly: will you please stop attacking me? I don't want to fight you."

As she extinguished her blades, she asked, "So… buy a girl a meal?"

"What's your name?"

"Asajj Ventress."

"Kane Fett."

Interior: Alderaan, Organa residence, party, evening.

As they sat together, Kane and Asajj ordered the same thing.

"So, how long have you been a Jetii, Asajj?"

"Since I was four. How long have you been a Mandalorian?"

"Since I was two. What's your story? I'll tell you my tragic backstory if you tell me yours."

"Deal." Ventress solemnly said as she allowed him to hold her hand whilst telling her story, which triggered his psychometry, "what's your story, darling?"

The young Mando told his tale to the Dathomirian.

"Well, aren't we just a screwed over pair of delinquents?" chuckled Asajj.

"Can't argue with that." agreed Kane who noticed the band playing a new song, "May I have this dance?"

"I guess it wouldn't kill us."

Later.

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, council chambers, morning.

"Repeat the name of the alledged Padawan's deceased Jedi Master," said Eeth.

"Ky Narec."

"Has his apprentice fallen to the dark side?"

"No, Asajj Ventress hasn't fallen to the dark side.

Not yet, at least. But I'm pretty sure she's left the Order.

Can't say I'd blame her if she did fall, after what she's been through.

Narec was stranded on Rattatak where they met."

"And how would you know this?" asked Windu, with a scowl and deadpanned tone.

"Quick reminder: I'm psychometric," answered Marek.

"You're psycho-something, all right," muttered Mace, under his breath.

"Stop it, Master Windu!" snapped Plo, "you've been nothing but disrespectful, cold-hearted, bitter and rude to the boy since his arrival.

You're setting a disgraceful example of a Council member."

Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, dojo.

Whilst sparring with Maris, Galen, using Ataru, praised, "You're amazing, Mari."

Between her form V strikes, she smiled, "Thanks, Star, you're really amazing as well."

Galen smiled, then both of them quickly leapt back from each other as a green blade ignited and slashed at him.

Standing before them was a brown eyed human male with fair skin and short brown hair.

Garbed in blue robes, a red tabard and cape, and light bronze gauntlets and boots.

"Ulic Qel-Droma!" gasped Maris as the other younglings and junior Padawans froze in shock as they turned to see Marek duelling the form of pre-Sith Ulic.

Seamlessly transitioning from form Ataru to Sith Shien, Galen closely analysed his opponent's movements, studying them just as Ulic would be studying his own, looking for patterns and trying to anticipate the next move.

But Marek was unprepared for a true Master of Djem So, making him transition to Soresu then Niman.

90 mins later.

As the form of Qel-Droma was knocked back by Galen, his appearance changed to shoulder length brown hair, dark metallic-bronze armour with a black cape, and wielding a yellow blade.

Exchanging blow for blow, the two duellists found themselves nearly evenly matched until they stopped and turned to see Master Yoda with his saber drawn.

Shutting down his projectors, Proxy turned to Galen, "Ah, Master, another excellent duel."

Marek chuckled, "Proxy, you did catch me by surprise. I didn't think Ulic's training module was ready yet."

"I thought using the newest module unscheduled would be a suitable test run."

Yoda approached the droid, "Quite authentic in appearance and movement, your modules are. Perhaps too lifelike in some aspects."

"I believed using a module of someone ancient would have made it obvious it was a simulation."

As she looked impressed by the droid, Depa asked, "Who else do you turn into, Proxy?"

Proxy replied, "With the data I've collected from various sources, I can turn into anyone, wearing anything."

"Turn into an insensitive jerk,"

The holodroid immediately changed into Mace, making everyone erupt into laughter.

Readying a form V stance, Proxy turned back into light side Ulic and resumed sparring with Marek.

Mando'a translations.

Buir - parent.

Mand'alor - sole ruler of the Mandalorians.

Ad'ika - little one, son.

Jetii - Jedi.

Dar'jetii - Sith.

Gai - name.

Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum - I love you.

Ni kar'tayl Kit darasuum ti all ner heart - I love Kit with all my heart.

Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum ti all ner ka'rta - I love you with all my heart.

T'ad - two.

Gar - you.

Cuyir - is.

Ti - with.

Te - the.

Ni - I/me.

Ner - my.

Vod - brother.

Beskar'vod - brother of iron, droid who's like a brother.

Su'cuy - hello.

Cyar'ika - darling.

Bal - and.

Cuun - our.

Kate - good.

Aliit - clan, family.

Ni cuy' solus ti te Force, bal te Force cuyir ti ni - I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me.

Ky'ram - death.

Cabuor - protect.

Kaysh - he/his/him/she/hers/her/.

Sol'yc - first.

Teh - from.

Mesh'la - beautiful.

Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad - I know your name as my child.

Mando'ad - Child of Mandalore.

Ni might Nau'ur kad ner own force-imbued kad - I might forge my own force-imbued sword.

Kad - sword.

Kad'e - swords.

Ni liser - I can.

Ni used te gai to cabuor myself - I used the name to protect myself.

Star'ika - little star.

Ni liser bring gar o'r warm, ra Ni liser bring gar o'r ciryc - I can bring you in warm, or I can bring you in cold.

Solus - one, alone.

Bah - to.

Par - for.

Val - their.

Kyr'tsad - Death Watch.

Dha - Dark.

Kaden bal ciryc - angry and cold.

Gar duraan bal or'parguur - you hold in contempt and hate.

Shabuir - jerk.

Ni'duura - you disgust me.

Hut'uun - coward.

Ni will cabuor kaysh - I will protect her.

Cuyir ner Buir - this is my mother.

Ti'Buir - momma Ti.

Ad - son/daughter.

Par gar bal Ani - For you and Ani.

Jetii'kad - lightsaber.

Cal'ika - little Caleb.