Professor Farnsworth: Good news, everyone!

Whoops, wrong fandom! But still good news XD A new chapter is up. Very glad to see interest is still high and everyone enjoys the intrigue! Much, much more to come.

A couple of quick points: Luke represents a divergence in the Force. Therefore his presence has caused a minor ripple effect. See if you can spot what's different.

Because the Force and love transcend time, there is an inherent connection, however small or large with the people Luke once knew in the old timeline.

Also, we will see Ahsoka in this chapter. It is still unclear based off the current canon whether or not she and Luke actually met so I had to make a judgement call on that. But I still think it works either way.

In any case, I have one more thing to add. For some of my other stories, I responded to reviews via a list on the next chapter but this time I've decided to save time and energy by responding to them directly. So if you give a review underneath your pen name and have open DMs I will reply!

Onwards with our tale!

"Trust not yourself, but your defects to know, make use of every friend and every foe."- Alexander Pope

Chapter 4. Friends and Foes

So deeply did Luke slumber, he went without dreams, which hardly seemed possible given the circumstances but before he knew it he was awakened by a knock on the door of his temporary quarters. Light entered the room, temporarily blinding him.

"Sorry to disturb you," came Obi-Wan's voice. "But I must inform you that you are needed."

Luke lifted his head slightly, shaggy locks partially obscuring his face.

"The Council has made a decision already, eh?"

"Actually, that is not the reason. Given that a Sith Lord has returned to the galaxy and is causing quite a bit of trouble, we will be reporting the incident to the Chancellor. Seeing as you were there, Master Yoda and I felt it necessary to bring you along in order to give a more accurate account."

That immediately jolted Luke awake, eyes widening, temporarily forgetting himself as he slipped from his bed and onto the floor.

"Are you quite alright?"

"Yes, I'm fine...I was just not aware we were going to see the highest office in the land so soon," he hastily recovered himself.

"Understandable. Though you need not fear Chancellor Palpatine. He is a kindly man despite what his position entails and can put anyone at ease."

Luke was sorely tempted to tell him otherwise but resisted that impulse and merely nodded in agreement.

"I'll give you a moment to gather yourself...though you may want to consider a change in clothing," Obi-Wan said, scanning him up and down.

"This is pretty much all I have," Luke shrugged.

"Not to worry, I can fetch some new robes for you. Normally I wouldn't care about such trivial matters but it helps to make a good first impression."

The door shut once more as Obi-Wan set out to do as promised, leaving Luke to fall back on the bed in disoriented, morning haze.

I'm going to talk with the most evil Dark Lord in a thousand years. Great

Not even a day into the past and the fates seemed to already be willing to screw with him.

In the morning sun, several Republic Gunships touched down on one of the military platforms in the middle of Coruscant. From the inside of one of them hopped out several clones, including one decked out in combination Phase I and II blue armor, followed by a tall and handsome Jedi with flowing brown hair, black tunic, and a gloved hand which hid a prosthetic arm.

"All in a good day's work wouldn't you say, Rex?" Anakin Skywalker said with a shifty grin as he walked alongside his long time captain.

"It was work alright," Captain Rex said, taking off his helmet. "I've decided I don't like Trandoshans that much. Tough bunch of lizard people."

"Nothing like sorting a dispute between lizard people and Wookies," Anakin laughed though his face turned solemn. "Of course, in this case it involved preventing the latter from captivity. I can't deny that I'm worried Kashyyyk will face several more attacks before this war is over."

Rex didn't know the full story of his commander's past but he knew enough that Anakin held a tremendous amount of contempt for those who still practiced the barbery of slavery.

"The Seps have targeted that system quite a bit lately," he noted. "I would mention that to the Chancellor when you see him next."

"As it just so happens, he requested I meet with him after our mission was completed straight away."

Rex gave a slight smile.

"He really seems to have taken an interest in you. Even after a smaller mission such as this, he wants to hear everything."

"I'd like to think it's my natural charm," Anakin joked. "Though I can't deny, it is nice when he appreciates some of the things when I do as opposed to the Council."

"They're just looking out for ya. Especially General Kenobi. You two have won more battles than any other Jedi combined. He appreciates you plenty."

"Yeah, he does," the young Jedi uttered softly remembering the affectionate bond between them.

Their conversation was interrupted by a string of Coruscant reporters who flooded the authorized area outside of the hangar. Cameras flashed causing the two men to put up their hands to shield themselves.

"Looks like that's my cue to leave," Rex teased, putting back on his helmet and saluting. "You were always better with the media than myself. Sir."

"Wait I-"

"Echo, Fives! Gather the men, we're moving out."

"Sir, yes sir!"

And just like that, the 501st Legion was off once more leaving Anakin Skywalker to deal with the haggle of writers and newspapermen.

He couldn't resist smiling for them just a little bit.

As promised, Luke was given new robes fresh from the laundry. They were simple enough, dark brown with a cream colored tunic, trousers, and a pair of leather boots. All in all, it wasn't much different than what he was wearing before but he noted anecdotally that it was nice to don attire that didn't constantly reek from isolation.

He met Yoda, Mace Windu, and Obi-Wan before being transported by a Republic transport gunship over to the Senate building which also housed the office of the Chancellor. The former gave him an encouraging smile while Windu, predictably remained neutral and said nothing as they boarded. Despite the night's rest, he still felt quite sluggish (he wondered if traveling time caused a disruption of your body clock) but that was the least of his worries. It wasn't every day you met with the most evil man in the galaxy and keeping his nerves while meeting with Palpatine was absolutely essential. A matter of life and death.

Luke did not necessarily think the Sith would spot him for who he was or jump to conclusions believed to be impossible, even the mastermind of the Empire wasn't that omnipotent. However, he was certain that he would receive some subtle examination. He remembered quite well the memory of the Second Death Star. Sidious's probing was like a black snake, entangling you in its coils with its temptations, leaving open one's most private innermost desires and feelings. At the time, he had only been twenty-two and therefore carried no means to guard himself against this dark art. Now at forty-eight the last of the Skywalkers recognized straight away when someone was attempting to explore the recesses of his mind and body. If Palpatine tried any funny business, he would know it.

Even with all this in mind, it still didn't make him feel any better.

Ignoring the hum of the engines from the gunship and not even bothering to protect himself from the wind that blew back his hair, Luke began to observe Coruscant below and all around. So occupied he was with finding a ship and getting to Obi-Wan, there was little time to take everything in. Of course, he had never cared much for it in the first place but as his master once told him, it was always wise to mind your surroundings.

In this case, what he saw was a sprawling metropolis clearly neck deep in a war that currently showed no signs of abating. Posters were everywhere encouraging people to buy Republic war bonds, security clone troopers in crimson armor marked almost every street in which he looked, while the Separatists were painted as bloodthirsty traitors seeking to undermine democracy. Though the upper levels remained well maintained, no doubt decay and despondency permeated through the poorer underworld, those who suffered the most from a wartime economy that ignored their needs.

It was all very well played. No one, not even the Jedi had a smidgeon that this war was all being orchestrated by a single man. The man he was about to meet.

Soon enough, they arrived at the Senate building and were taken to the upper reaches of the Chancellor's suite, where he was informed that most war meetings took place there between the executive and the Jedi. Unlike the outside of Coruscant, Luke paid little attention to the interior of the Senate building. Leia had shown him enough times and each visit bored him more than the last. He did note however, that the blue robed Senate guards had already been replaced by the Red Guards or what would later become the Imperial Guard, a subtle but ominous sign of what was to come.

Upon entering, he observed a spacious room, decorated in scarlet with multiple comfortable couches for guests to sit on. There was another door in front that no doubt led to his main office, that Luke was well aware was adorned with various artefacts, statues, and decorations that were mysterious and macabre to say the least. He still marveled the Jedi still could not figure out who the Dark Lord was until Sidious literally told his father directly.

But there was little time to dwell on that presently. Standing in the middle of the room dressed in formal robes was none other than Chancellor Palpatine himself, the alter ego of the one and only Darth Sidious.

"Welcome, Master Jedi," he greeted warmly. "Please sit wherever you like."

At once, Luke understood why his forebears had not been able to detect the madman right in front of them. Whatever Sidious's true form, this was a far cry from the wrinkled, twisted, decrepit, manifestation of pure evil he and his father defeated over the Endor moon. His features were that of someone in their early sixties, aging quite gracefully- neatly combed, white hair, a pointed nose, and kindly blue eyes. With their vision clouded by the dark side, no Jedi would ever suspect this seemingly upstanding, charismatic politician of devising a secret plan to kill them all.

"Thank you, Chancellor," Yoda bowed as did the rest of the Jedi present. Luke did so as well, but did not take his eye off the man, noticing full well that the Chancellor did the same with him as well.

"And who is this that you have brought along with you today?" Palpatine asked pleasantly. "I do not believe we have met, Master Jedi."

"We beg your pardon for not informing you, sir," Obi-Wan interjected. "This is Luke Ahch-To. He is not one of our own but he wields the Force the same as we do."

"Interesting," Palpatine said, rubbing his chin. "This is quite a surprise, though not an unwelcome one. And if you are not a Jedi, then where do you hail from Master Ahch-To?"

Luke willed himself to mask his fear and fury, for if it were unleashed he would have cut the Sith Lord down right then and there. Perhaps it was the advantage of foresight no one else in the room possessed but he could hear the oozing silkiness behind that friendly tone, one that indicated dangerous curiosity. Thankfully, he did not have to answer the question and was saved by Mace Windu.

"That is a story for another time, with all due respect, Chancellor."

"Of course, I did not mean to intrude. Let us proceed with the briefing. What exactly occurred on Florum that you wished to inform me of?"

Oh, he was good. Very good. The last of the Skywalkers was receiving a first hand look at how this deceiver operated. Assume a grandfatherly, warm demeanor combined with high public trust and it was a recipe for becoming a dictator. To the citizens of the galaxy, the Senate, and even the Jedi, he was a humble servant. Firm but gentle, direct but evenhanded, decisive but also pragmatic. It did not appear at this point there was any underlying tension between the Chancellor and his generals as it was towards the end of the war.

Obi-Wan gave a quick testimony on Maul and his crimes before unexpectedly handing off the reins to himself.

"Luke may be able to explain his point of view of what happened better than I can. If you don't mind."

Oh, he did mind. He wanted nothing to do with the Chancellor and was aching to get out of the suite as soon as possible. Nevertheless he complied and gave his version of the events.

"...I managed to sever the arm of one of them while simultaneously splitting his lightsaber in half. Afterwards they attempted to escape on the stolen cargo ship before being shot down by one of the pirates. Master Kenobi and I had to do what we could to save Master Gallia's life."

As he finished his tale, blue eyes of politician and Jedi met each other in a temporary stare. Curiosity getting the better of him, Luke reached out with the Force ever so slightly to probe the edges of the Chancellor's essence. At first there was nothing, no hint of any sensitivity to the force much less the hurricane of evil he truly was. A swirling ball of harmless light radiated around him. But quick as a flash, he sensed a brief gleam of the darkness he was searching for, the tiniest amount of pure black hatred and malice; blue eyes flickering yellow for just the tiniest moment in time.

That's him alright

Realizing he had probably gone too far in his probing, Luke immediately ceased his probing, pushed down his fear and anger and once more played dumb, briefly clutching his forehead.

"My apologies, Chancellor. I think I might still be disoriented from the previous day."

Thankfully, this moment was not noticed by the rest of the Jedi nor did Palpatine take any offense.

"You have had a tiring twenty hours my young friend. Please take the day to rest as your Jedi hosts most assuredly will allow."

He turned his attention back to Obi-Wan.

"Master Kenobi, were there any bodies on board the ship the two Sith attempted to escape in?"

"No, sir. Hondo reported no survivors aboard."

"I see. Though this has no doubt been a concerning development I think we have garnered closure on this matter."

The rest of the Jedi shifted on the comfortable couches, Obi-Wan most of all.

"I disagree, Chancellor. Everything we've learned from this is that the Sith are persistent. They will not die."

Luke admired Obi-Wan's insistence. He had the right idea. It was just unfortunate that he was looking in the wrong places.

"I understand your reservations, Master Kenobi. But I am afraid we can no longer allow this personal matter of yours be a Republic concern," Palpatine politely differed. "It does not appear that this 'Darth Maul' is a threat to the Republic. We need to redirect your efforts to the cause at hand: stopping Count Dooku and thus ending the Clone Wars."

Obi-Wan still pressed his case, however.

"Maul was building an army of pirates."

"So let him," the Chancellor shrugged with a lazy hand. "Let him play with the rabble. They're just petty crooks. It is of no relevance to the Senate compared to the Separatist threat. Good day, gentleman."

The somewhat lofty dismissal was a slight departure from the humble manor Palpatine usually conducted himself, but nothing to suggest a deeper, sinister nature. Luke could not help but feel a brush of dark cold as the Dark Lord returned to the confines of his office. It was ominous to say the least.

Meanwhile, the Jedi conferred amongst themselves.

"Something is stirring in the underworld," Obi-Wan stated, his face uneasy. "Crime families have had too much free reign since the Jedi have been distracted by the Clone War. I fear it is a fertile place for Maul to flourish...if he has indeed survived."

Yoda murmured in response, mulling the situation.

"Right you may be, Obi-Wan. But heed the words of the Chancellor, we must. A personal matter this is for you. Clouded your judgement may be. In time, if he lives, reveal himself again, Maul will. Swiftly we shall act."

It didn't seem to assuage Obi-Wan all that much but that was not the chief concern on Luke's mind. The fact that he just witnessed the Grand Master of the Jedi being completely played by the Sith was not unsurprising but still disturbing nonetheless. More than ever he understood the true power Sidious possessed...and the effort it would take to subvert such influence in this timeline.

"Now then, back to the Temple we must go. Several matters we must address, hm?" Yoda said bringing him back to reality, though there was a twinkle in his eye.

"We will convene the masters once more to decide your place among the Jedi," Mace Windu explained.

"Come," Obi-Wan gestured kindly. "At the very least, you'll have the opportunity to explore while we deliberate. It really is a magnificent place though one can't really experience it all in one day."

Luke hadn't a clue what conclusion the Council would come to but one thing was becoming clearer by the hour: he needed to stay involved in this war and the best way to do that was by sticking close to the Jedi. But would they let him?

"I will accept whatever decision you make," Luke bowed slightly.

The four Jedi left the room and began making their way back towards the transport shuttle but not before Luke sent off some silent parting words to the Sith Lord in control of the entire intergalactic conflict.

My Father and I beat you once, Sith spawn. And this time around we're going to do it again

Luke did indeed use the time to explore the temple while the Council deliberated. He frowned at the slow, deliberative process though he supposed it was preferable to outright hostility and rejection. However, he was able to take his mind off the upcoming decision by seeing for himself just how magnificent the home of the Jedi really was.

Many years ago, or into the future rather, the last Skywalker entered these halls after the death of the Emperor and the subsequent fall of his empire. What he witnessed was both melancholic and disheartening. Palpatine had used the old remains as an Imperial Palace, the crown piece in his symbolic victory over his hated foes and the rise of his beloved new order. As a result, the building was covered in Imperial flags, adorned with fancy furniture, and macabre adornations of all sorts in the twenty two years that followed.

For all the redecorating, however, even the Dark Lord of the Sith failed to hide the scars of its destruction and Order 66. Blaster marks and widespread damage remained as a reminder of what had happened there. Once or twice, though he turned a blind eye, Luke thought he saw the mark of a lightsaber strewn across the walls; a testimony to the evil act his father once committed. But most grisly of all was the Force presence that lingered throughout the temple. The cries still echoed all around, a dark memory that permanently stained the prestige of a once proud hall that had stood for thousands of years.

So powerful it was, the young Luke Skywalker knelt down and wept at the time. He didn't need the reminder of a Force ghost to know what occurred.

Of course that future did not exist, at least not yet. For now, he was able to bathe in the full glow of all the Jedi Temple offered. Already he had seen the great halls, vast mezzanine, and magnificent statues. To witness them in their pristine shape felt like nothing short of a miracle. But inevitably, his attention shifted to one of the most incredible sights of all: the Jedi Archives.

In the first decade of his rebuilding of the new Jedi Order, Luke sought to learn what he could from the previous incarnation not only to pass on traditions but to prevent the mistakes of the past from being repeated. Though not a scholar originally, he later came to appreciate Jedi knowledge as though it was the rarest substance in the galaxy. For all their power and grandiose philosophy, to have fallen to their ancient enemy in total ignorance was the mark of archaic dogma and conceit. Despite Palpatine confiscating or destroying much of the old texts and libraries, he had scoured through what was left to salvage what he could. To see the archives unsullied by betrayal and war nearly brought tears to his eyes.

Luke scarcely knew where to begin. Obi-Wan had informed the Chief Librarian Jocasta Nu of his presence and so she welcomed him without suspicion. So in awe he was of the vast collection of texts, he almost didn't sense a presence coming up behind him.

"Need some help, Master?"

Turning around he saw it was none other than Ahsoka Tano, padawan learner of his father, and a key figure in the rebellion that eventually toppled the empire. He did not learn until later that the majority of her assistance was provided through intelligence under the codename 'Fulcrum'. Though considered something a Gray Jedi, the stories of her exploits were legendary. And the affection of which his father spoke of her was practically unrivaled save for his own wife.

The Togrutan of course, was much younger than the older version he knew about but never met. As was typical of her species, her montrals had not reached their full size as they did come maturity, nor were her head tails as long as those of Jedi Master Shaak Ti. Though two years of the Clone Wars had no doubt accelerated her maturity into a savvy and skilled Jedi, Luke also knew that a heavy naive streak still existed in the sixteen year old padawan. He could see it in her bright, curious blue eyes.

"No need to call me 'master' padawan," he told her honestly. "I'm not even a Jedi technically speaking."

This seemed to confuse Ahsoka who was puzzled by his reasoning.

"What do you mean? You're either a Jedi or you're not. I mean you even got a lightsaber. What further proof is required?"

Luke tried to give the most kindly smile without making it seem like a pained grimace. He had honestly forgotten how by now.

"It's complicated. But I can still assure you there's no need to call me any fancy title."

Realization dawned on the padawan's face as her eyes lit up once more.

"Wait a minute...are you that guy who saved Master Gallia from those two Sith on Florum?"

Luke raised his eyebrows in surprise.

"How did you know about that?"

"You'd be surprised how quickly news can spread around here. Gossip exists even among the Jedi."

"Well for once the gossip isn't totally false. I was there when the battle took place. The Council has been informed as I'm sure you're aware. They're deliberating right now."

"On what? How to properly thank you? Because that's what they should be doing."

She's my father's apprentice alright

Headstrong, bold, and with a penchant for speaking her mind, he could see why his dad and Obi-Wan thought so highly of her. The Togrutan was very charming in her own way. He was also aware of the unfortunate incident that was to come, forcing this promising young padawan into exile and thus never becoming a Jedi Knight. He vowed to change that as well, among other things.

"Whatever they decide is not up to me," he spoke diplomatically. "Seeing as I am not one of them."

"You keep saying you're not a Jedi, yet you wear the robes, carry the weapon, and look like every Jedi Master I've ever seen. What's the story there?"

He supposed Ahsoka would be curious as was natural for someone her age. But as it was with everyone he was coming across, the full scope of the truth had to remain hidden.

"It's too long and detailed for me to get into right now."

Thankfully, the padawan did not press further though her features retained that omnipresent look of youthful inquisitiveness.

"Well can I at least know your name?" she asked.

"Call me Luke. Luke Ahch-To."

"Well I'm Ashoka. Ahsoka Tano," she responded kindly and with pride. "Nice to meet you."

"You as well, Ahsoka."

They bowed to each other respectfully before the conversation continued.

"So back to my original question. Is there anything around here you were looking to read?"

"Not particularly. Really, I was just taking the opportunity to see and learn more about the Temple while the Council deliberates. It may be my last day, you know."

Ahsoka seemed to be disappointed at this statement, but then her face lit up with excitement.

"I have an idea then. Why not get a workout in while we wait? It'll help take your mind off it. Plus, I want to see how I measure up against the hero of Florum."

Luke almost said no straight away but considered that indulging her in this could cause no lasting harm. If anything, establishing a good rapport with his father's apprentice only served to aid him in the long run. The competitive part of him also desired to know how his own skill compared to the younger, rawer padawan learner and vice versa.

"Challenge accepted," he told her brightly. "Please, lead the way to our sparring location."

"With pleasure, Luke."

He was led away from the archives and they eventually made their way outside towards the training grounds right by the center spiral.

This was another area Luke had witnessed upon making his excursion into the Temple following the Empire's fall. Though not as eerie or blast marked, the grounds were in a state of decay more so than the rest of the building which had been largely refurbished by Palpatine. Shrubs, weeds, and various other plant life poked through the stone and the sacred Jedi tree which had once stood in the center was removed completely. It was only later that Luke found two seeds preserved in the Emperor's personal lab, one of which was planted on Yavin 4 and the other in his now destroyed New Jedi Temple.

But in 20 BBY, the grounds were in pristine shape and the perfect place for younglings to practice their lightsaber skills with a bit of fresh air involved. It was also an ideal spot for a spar.

"Hey there. My friend and I are going to use this area to practice some lightsaber moves. He's with me."

The Temple Guard nodded silently at Ahsoka indicating they were permitted to proceed.

Luke had never sparred in this temple before but he knew enough about the rules: take your spot twenty feet away from your opponent, bow, and begin.

"I heard you sliced a Sith's arm off and split his lightsaber in half," Ahsoka commented while taking her place at the end of the square. "Is that true?"

"I did what I needed to," Luke said with a noncommittal reply though his opponent could no doubt see the coy smirk underneath his beard.

"Maybe you can teach me a thing or two. I'm not too shabby myself, though. You must know who my Master is."

He did of course, but once more he played dumb, pretending otherwise.

"Haven't a clue, Ahsoka. Who is he?"

It was almost amusing to see the incredulous look on the padawan's face.

"Only the bravest, best known Jedi Knight in the whole galaxy. Where have you been?"

"Everywhere," was all Luke responded with. "And nowhere."

"You're not much for talking are you?" Ahsoka said with a raised brow.

Luke pulled out his lightsaber and ignited the green blade.

"Sometimes it's best to let the sword do the talking."

Ahsoka did the same, pulling out her twin sabers, a flash of emerald issuing forth.

"Very well then. Let's see what you got."

For the first time in what seemed like an eternity, Luke genuinely smiled as the duel began.

"Strange, this is. Out of nowhere Luke Ahch-To seems to have appeared."

The Jedi Council was currently undertaking one of their trickier debates. For all the murkiness clouding the Force, this was perhaps even more confounding. A consensus could not be reached on it nor on the newcomer himself.

"Which makes the timing of his arrival all the more suspicious," Mace Windu said, narrowing his eyes, his mind in deep thought.

"While I agree it is somewhat of a mystery as to his timing, there can be no doubt of his intentions," Obi-Wan voiced. "A dark side user would not have deliberately fought off a Sith while simultaneously saving the life of a Jedi Master."

Master Gallia had awoken from her coma and though the road back to health was long, the Temple healers safely declared she would make a full recovery. It was nothing short of a miracle to say the least. The report had come in that morning.

"The dark side is a confounding and cunning enemy, Master Kenobi," Ki-Adi Mundi spoke. "We still don't fully understand its role in this war. He could have had an ulterior motive for interfering."

"While that is true, I sensed no ill will or intent on his part as we asked him questions. If the dark side exists within him, it is very well hidden. I could see courage, perseverance, and a great deal of control. His power in the force is incredible."

"There was also much pain and sorrow," Sasee Tinn pointed out. "Whatever is true or false about what he told us, there is no question only a person who has seen and done much can carry that kind of burden."

"A result of loss and attachment, pain often is," Yoda murmured. "Also a path to the dark side."

"There was also hope," Kit Fisto countered. "Such as I have not seen in years."

"Pain is something we all carry, like it or not," Obi-Wan said. "It is not the pain itself but what a person decides to do with it and move forward accordingly. Whoever Luke is, he is clearly acting benevolently on behalf of others."

"It's not just his pain that concerns me," Windu commented darkly. "During our meeting with the Chancellor I also sensed a great deal of fear in him."

"Anyone meeting that kind of authority for the first time would no doubt be nervous. Palpatine can be overbearing even when he's not trying to be. He did seem curious about his identity."

"That is another thing that I don't understand," Master Mundi gestured towards his fellow Jedi. "We have records, lists of Force sensitive children that are never inaccurate. Yet he was not discovered by any one of us. How was someone that powerful not brought to the Temple at a young age?"

Yoda clicked his tongue as a kind of reprimand.

"Infallible, we are not, Master Mundi. Not all Force sensitive children are discovered by the Jedi, some never at all for that matter. Assume, we cannot. No lie did I detect in him."

"And what of his master, this 'Ben' he spoke of," Windu asked aloud. "There was no one of that name ever trained here. Not even among the Lost Twenty. Only Jedi have the ability to teach what he has mastered."

"Perhaps a pseudonym. Gray Jedi do exist," Plo Koon half shrugged. "Not everyone in the Force is starkly contrasted between light and dark. Some take a different path."

"And with so much of our focus on the war, it is perfectly feasible we may not have sensed him. If he cut himself off from the Force after the death of his master it would make perfect sense why none of us knew of his existence until now," Obi-Wan commented.

There was a brief silence as the Council appeared to collectively ponder for a moment.

"You seem to like him, Master Kenobi," Shaak Ti observed.

Obi-Wan didn't say anything at first. He was surprised even by himself at the way he defended this mystery man. But there was something about Luke that seemed almost...familiar in a way. As though he were a long lost friend. He couldn't place a finger on it, in fact it almost seemed instinctual.

By the Force, I'm becoming like Anakin

"I believe he's made a favorable impression. He did save Master Gallia at the risk of his own life. At the very least, his skill and power cannot be denied. I believe it would be foolish to turn away what help he can give."

Some of the detractors nodded at this.

Mace Windu, however, was still not convinced.

"That may very well be, but there are elements of this that don't add up. We all felt the disturbance in the Force yesterday and he could be directly related to that disturbance. The Order is stretched thin already as it is. It's too risky to take a chance."

The room again went silent, this time out of deference to the oldest and wisest among them. Though Yoda did not hold absolute authority over the Council's decisions, his input often made a tremendous impact on everyone else. When the Grandmaster spoke, one listened and took heed.

"Hmmm, cloudy the Force still is and dangerous this war has become. But the Force often works in mysterious ways...not always do we understand, nor meant to understand. No deceit did I sense in Luke Ahch-To. An opportunity this is, perhaps."

Rubbing his chin with a clawed hand, Yoda made his final opinion known.

"Trust in the Force, I do. In time, Luke's motivations will be revealed. Best it is, for him to stay for now."

It was time to put the resolution to a vote and Obi-Wan found himself on edge with the anticipation of the result.

"All those in favor of allowing Luke Ahch-To to remain at the Jedi Temple for the time being?" Mace Windu put forward.

Eight hands went up which constituted a majority. Windu and Mundi were among the notables who did not raise their hands, the former not looking pleased at all.

"Very well. The motion passes. He will be granted residency until such time when we decide a more permanent solution."

"But is he to be called a Jedi?" Mundi pointed out. "How will he be addressed by the knights, padawans and younglings? What will the purpose be in having him here? We cannot entertain giving him a legion of clones to send off into battle."

"All questions to be answered at another time. For now, call him by his name, hm? Suffice, that should, yes?"

Yoda's eyes were twinkling at this point and Obi-Wan could have sworn the Old Master looked in his direction before hopping down from his chair and taking out his walking stick.

"If I could Master Yoda, I'd like to deliver the news to Luke. I'm sure he will be pleased."

"By all means, Master Kenobi."

The meeting was officially adjourned leaving Obi-Wan to ponder the ramifications of such a decision and what it meant moving forward. Either way, he was firm in his belief it would work out for the better.

Hmmm, I wonder what Anakin will make of this situation. No doubt he'll find it entertaining to say the least

As it turned out, he didn't have to wait long, Obi-Wan ran into his old padawan learner in the mezzanine both seemingly in search of something.

"Ah, you're back. I wasn't expecting you for another day or so. How are you my old friend?" the master greeted warmly.

"Trandoshans are good but they aren't as good as me or the 501st," Anakin said with a cocky grin.

"Modest as ever. I'm just thankful that Kashyyyk is safe. That is a system we cannot afford to lose….where were you going by the way?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing," Anakin responded, scratching his head. "But you go first."

"Well there's never a dull moment around here. I know you just got back, but have you heard of the events on Florum?"

Anakin nodded grimly.

"The Chancellor actually told me everything after I met with him today. Is Master Gallia going to make it?"

"It was touch and go there for a while but she will be fine, mainly thanks to the efforts of a Force wielder by the name of Luke Ahch-To, which I assume Palpatine also told you about."

"He did. I also heard the Council was deliberating whether to throw him out. Have you come to a decision on that yet?"

Obi-Wan knew from the indignation in Anakin's voice that he was clearly on the side of the newcomer and sought to put him at ease.

"Relax, my friend. The Council voted to allow him to stay for the time being. I was one of his advocates, believe it or not."

Anakin could only give an incredulous chuckle.

"Leave it to the wisest among us to actually consider disowning someone who didn't do anything wrong. Where is he anyway?"

"That's actually where I was headed to now. To find Luke and tell him of our decision. What about you?"

"I was looking for Ahsoka. Promised I'd give her the full story when I got back, tell her Rex said hello...the usual."

A sudden dawn of realization appeared on Obi-Wan's bearded face as he and his former apprentice caught each other's eye.

"You don't think…."

"No way. Impossible."

Whether it was possible or not the two Jedi hurried off to see if their respective hunches were correct.

Luke didn't know what to expect when he agreed to duel Ahsoka but the result was a phenomenon he had not experienced in quite some time: fun.

Something about sparring with the young padawan brought about a kind of mix of raw joy and determination he once thought lost to him. Every strike, every dodge, every blow...it was almost like he was a fresh faced nineteen year old again, only three years older than his current opponent. And she was good. Very good.

Ahsoka, with her two sabers employed a version of combat known as Jar'Kai, something the last of the Skywalkers was not as well versed with. Though he was technically a master swordsman proficient in the use of all forms, he was most familiar with the ones taught by Obi-Wan and Yoda which were forms I, III, IV, and V. The rest he had to learn about on his own from what little he could salvage from lost Jedi knowledge. Favoring Form V himself, its power in offense helped to compensate for lost agility in middle age.

He needed every bit of it, however. Ahsoka's speed and acrobatics combined Jar'Kai with Ataru, which was difficult to defend against. More than once, he had to leap out of the way in the face of that sheer quickness. But he didn't mind one bit. For once, he could just focus on being in the here and now instead of the past and future alongside all the baggage that came with it.

Luke, despite heavy sweat and the onset of fatigue, pressed forward with sweeping strikes that Ahsoka struggled to contain. In a way, their styles were the perfect foil for each other; her agility and athleticism pitted against his raw power and experience. However, the padawan ducked out of the way of the next two strikes, somersaulting through his legs and tried to sweep him off his feet.

Thankfully, he was able to stay on his feet, flipping through the air and coming down over the top with a blow that Ahsoka struggled to stay upright for. But youth once more came into play as she pushed upward, giving her enough time to jump backwards into the air in order to gain a degree of separation.

Luke sent a Force blast her way, which she dodged and zig zagged her back towards the center, temporarily putting him on the defense.

"You're good. Very good," she breathed out as she struck out using her reverse grip, attempting to use her shoto saber to throw him off balance.

He was well aware of the move, however, sidestepping it and blocking the strike from her main saber. With a circular flare, he spun it out of her hand and into the air and for a split second, victory appeared to be his.

Ahsoka was not one to give up easily, as she jumped up on Luke's shoulder, flying through the air and taking back the lightsaber into her custody, landing with a flourish.

"You're not too bad yourself," the bearded Jedi responded. "This is the best workout I've had in years."

"I hope it's more than that by the time it's over," Ahsoka said a cocky smile.

She's quite confident. I'll give her that. No secret as to where she learned it

Luke felt that now was the time to end the spar. A prolonged fight would not be in his favor given his age. They had been at it for half an hour now and keeping the same level of energy for much longer was not feasible. By the same token, he had not summoned the full power he possessed through the Force. It wasn't so much as toying with her per say as it was gauging her power.

He said nothing in response to her playful snark. Instead he brought his blade to heel and formed a Soresu defense position. Sure enough, Ahsoka took the bait, her eyes alight with perceived opportunity rushing forward to press the advantage.

Blow for blow, Luke allowed Ahsoka to drive him back, keeping his footing sound and did not take his eyes off her even for a second. By now, unbeknownst to the two combatants, they had attracted quite a large crowd, including the many younglings already done with their morning training and studies. Even some Knights and Masters dropped by to witness the action as several 'ooos' and 'aaaas' could be heard with each successive move.

Focusing on his breathing and clearing his mind of everything but pure focus on the task at hand, Luke knew he was scaling the edge of the square platform they were on currently. Ducking the next two strikes, he saw that the padawan over extended herself. As both her sabers came upward, he intersected them both using his own emerald blade, throwing Ahsoka off balance and giving him the perfect in.

Summoning his full power he used his gloved prosthetic hand to send her flying through the air, landing on the stone ground in a grunting heap. Before she had time to get back on her feet, Luke used the force to telekinetically summon her lightsabers out from her weakened grip, catching them both with ease.

Leaping into the air, he was soon standing on top of her, the jade colored saber pointed directly at the padawan.

"I win," he said, but his tone was playful and soon enough he was helping her back up, returning the weapons to her. It was only then that the two realized the crowd around them was clapping and whistling. Even the normally emotionless Jedi Temple Guards.

"Are they cheering?" Luke asked aloud, utterly confused.

"For you," Ahsoka said graciously. "You beat me fair and square. There's no question who the better Jedi is, Master Luke."

Painful flashbacks entered his mind from the last time he'd had a student as young as the Togrutan refer to him as 'Master Luke' and it was not a pleasant sensation.

"They're clapping for us both, Ahsoka," he replied though his eyes were watering. "But I'm no Master. Remember that."

Before the intrigued padawan could ask to expound further, two figures emerged from the crowd, the taller clapping as much as the rest, the other looking on with a bemused expression, his arms folded.

"Well that was quite a spectacle," Obi-Wan commented though the tone of his voice was not angry.

"What my master meant to say was: that was some of the finest swordsmanship I've ever seen. You should be proud, my young padawan," Anakin said kindly to Ahsoka. He then turned his attention to the other combatant.

"Your dueling skills are incredible. I'm Anakin, Anakin Skywalker by the way. I'm sorry we never had a chance to meet earlier but I feel like I've heard so much about you already, Luke."

Nothing could have prepared him for this moment. For Luke Skywalker seeing Obi-Wan, Yoda, Ahsoka, Palpatine, and the rest brought about its own unique set of surrealness but this was something else entirely. In place of a terrible, imposing black suit was a tall human male with dashing good looks and a naturally welcoming, warm disposition. He was scarred over his right eye, a mark received from the infamous assassin Assaj Ventress but otherwise held no flaws in his youthful features. Sea blue eyes indicated a taste for daring while also innate kindness and love freely given. His almost shoulder length hair was a shade darker than Luke's own dirty blond/brownish hair and could be considered brown. A classic Skywalker trait. Ben had been blond as a child as well. He could see that physically they resembled each other a great deal.

His attire featured an all black garb which included his tunic, trousers, and boots, while donning a maroon undershirt. On his belt was the lightsaber once passed down to him from Obi-Wan, (he made a thankful mental note of not bringing it into the past) along with a gloved hand Luke knew hid a mechanical prosthetic same as himself. All in all there was no trace of the man who would later become the monster known as Darth Vader, which only made the situation more overwhelming for him.

Father...it's you. Your true self

He could sense that like Obi-Wan and Yoda, there was already a strong force bond between them, far stronger than anything he had yet experienced. He attempted to ignore this for the time being as to not draw any suspicion and make a believable first impression.

"Your praise is too kind," he said bowing low. "It is nice to meet you as well."

"Obi-Wan tells me you saved his skin on Florum. I'm glad someone was there to do it if not myself," Anakin laughed. "Would have been the seventh time as well."

"Sixth," Obi-Wan corrected, rolling his eyes. "How many times must I tell you that business on Cato Neimoidia doesn't count?"

"At least once more, as always Master."

He turned around and addressed the remnants of the crowd still watching.

"Alright, show's over. Everyone go back to what they were doing."

"Indeed. Younglings go wash up and prepare for your next lesson," Obi-Wan agreed.

It was amusing to see his father and Obi-Wan actually become voices of authority in this kind of setting as a chorus of 'awwws' rang out. For all Luke knew, Anakin Skywalker was a pure rebel and jokester rolled into one. Of course that was still easy to see.

"That was quite a duel," Anakin said, resuming the conversation. "You fought quite well my padawan."

"She failed to mention you were her master, though she alluded to it many times. It's quite apparent where her skill and disposition come from," Luke said, giving Ahsoka a wink, causing her to blush with embarrassment.

"Hey! It's not my fault he was the one person who didn't know who Anakin Skywalker was! Besides, I was trying to be humble as you taught me, master."

Obi-Wan gave a humorous snicker.

"Anakin teaching someone to be humble? Now I've seen everything."

"Ha-ha. Very funny."

To see this scene, this playful natural banter between three friends, two of whom he admired beyond anything caused Luke's heart to flutter so rapidly it was all he could do to contain his emotion. This is why he had traveled back in the past; to witness the warmth and camaraderie in moments such as these...and to preserve it. That these three wonderful people were destined for such vastly different paths in life was the most depressing aspect. However, for once, he did not allow that dark sense of dread, that massive ball of anxiety to rule his mind and thoughts. Happiness reigned where it had been absent for many years.

By the Force...I will not fail any of you. I promise

"Hey, Luke do you want to join us in the mess hall for lunch?" Ahsoka asked, breaking his train of thought. "It's been so long since we've all had a meal together."

"Why not?" Anakin said brightly. "The more the merrier, I say."

"Sounds like a plan," Obi-Wan agreed. "Though don't forget you're still paying the next tab at Dex's."

"I remember, don't worry...so what do you say Luke?"

So inviting was the smile and the timber of his voice, Luke could feel his heart fill with pure delight once more.

"I accept, of course."

There was one more pause, however, as Obi-Wan put a hand to his forehead.

"Goodness me, I almost forgot to mention it. Luke, the Council has agreed to let you stay at the Temple. Though I don't know what role they'll want you to fill, it's a step in the right direction."

"I am honored, Master Kenobi. Thank you."

Obi-Wan smiled while Anakin took it one step further.

"And I thank the Force you're with us, Luke. Now let's go grab some grub. I'm starving."

Though being able to live with the Jedi was welcome news to be sure, Luke was far more excited at the prospect of eating lunch with his own father which drowned every other thought from his mind. He could barely contain his joy.

Despite only having been at the temple less than twenty four hours, it already felt like home.

Well then, Luke is officially welcome and accepted by Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Ahsoka. The real question is, what will he do now that he has? What role will the Council have him play?

Stay tuned!

~The Wasp