Avengers: Infinite Wars

by free man writer

The Clone Wars are in full swing with the galaxy divided. The Jedi lead the clone army against the infinite droid army of the Separatists. Yet a wild card enters the fray. The Avengers. From there, newer, more sinister and deadlier threats emerge and The Galaxy, no, the universe, shall never be the same again. Co-written by Jebest4781 and BulletStormX. Now in Season 4.

98. Tython

I didn't do this last time but I need to address this.

Seekinggoodfics and Coldbrace, the two of you finally got it.

Yes, One Piece is a HUGE influence on my writing style. It's why this story is going to be as big as it is. I just love those types of large scale stories while having the small, intimate moments between characters and all. You guys finally figured it out.

Thanks for all the reviews as per usual for the last chapter and the growing anticipation for what's to come in this chapter so let's just get to it.

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.

Avengers Infinite Wars Chapter 98: Tython

It was dark and murky, given the thick fog rolling all around. With the amount all around, one couldn't see a thing beyond a few feet ahead of them.

With fog, one could believe to witness anything. And if you get lost in it, you may hallucinate.

"Anakin…"

Not just seeing things, but hearing things as well.

"Did you hear that, Master Qui-gon?" He said trepidatiously.

The young Jedi couldn't see him but he could hear the shifting of fabric, indicating the nod from his Master's head. "Yes, Anakin. It calls to you."

Looking onward, Anakin could see this large, dilapidated tree stretching far and wide. Vines and other plants grew and covered its bark.

"The tree?"

"Yes. You must enter it. Alone."

"I'm afraid… Master."

This is a bad place. A dark place.

He felt a hand on his shoulder. Glancing sideways, he saw Qui-gon kneeling beside him.

"Control your fear. You are the Chosen One. And you must be tested."

"Do I have to be?" The young Jedi couldn't help but ask and he heard Qui-Gon let out a soft chuckle.

"To confront fear, to be able to overcome your setbacks and not repress or ignore them. That is what will make you a better man as it will a better Jedi."

Looking back at the tree, Anakin voiced a question.

"What's in there?"

"Only what you take with you."

That vague response didn't really make much sense to him. Anakin was rather unsure of this when he looked back at the aged Jedi Master but trusted him.

Walking onward, Anakin heard Qui-gon give him some last pieces of advice before the fog swallowed him whole.

"Your final test is at hand. Trust in the Force."

Venturing into the tree, Anakin felt like he was missing something important to have on hand. He didn't have anything on him, aside from the clothes he wore.

Something was somewhat off about the whole thing.

For instance, he never went on such a trip with Qui-gon -alone- to some swampy location. The closest to such a scenario was when he came to Naboo for the first time years ago, meeting the Gungans at a swampy hideout to plan their next course of action in order to help Padme liberate her planet from the Trade Federation.

So was this on Naboo or somewhere else entirely? And for that matter, now that he took a gander of himself… Why was he a kid again?

Whatever the case was, he kept moving forward.

He needed to follow the path with strength and courage.

Easier said than done in his present predicament.

Some bad places are here to test us.

And this bad place he was walking into… underwhelmed him the minute he stepped into it.

'Is this it?' Anakin thought. 'An empty cave?'

It was… dark to be sure but nothing to give him any sort of fear or trepidation.

It felt like he was being tricked.

Scratching his head, Anakin blinked, having now reverted back to his current age.

"What is going on right-" The Chosen One froze, inhaling sharply.

Wait. Something was in here.

In an instant, the cave that was already dim somehow darkened even further. A dark presence, a pressure came over him, the Jedi Knight now finding it hard to move.

*Ch-ssshhhhhhhhh ch-shshhhhhhuuuuuuu* *Ch-ssshhhhhhhhh ch-shshhhhhhuuuuuuu*

The hairs on the back of his neck stood up on end, his face paling considerably and his eyes widened. There was a brief moment of dilation within his eyes as Anakin released a haggard breath, slowly turning to the darkest part of the cave.

He saw it there.

The imposing specter and shadow.

It was the dark man- no, the monster.

Anakin found himself breathing rapidly, near hyperventilation with a cold sweat coming over him.

Slowly, with measured movements, the figure unclipped a familiar device that hung from his belt and held it up.

*Schvrmmmmmmm!*

The light coming from the red lightsaber greatly lit up the darkness.

Instantly, Anakin reached toward his side for his lightsaber… only to grasp nothing.

Now this was utter Poodoo.

He needed to get out of here!

Using the Force, he sent out a blast to send the monster back. But it did nothing, only prompting the dark figure to trudge forward. He took off into a sprint, trying to find an exit to this place, only to find nothing.

The moment he turned, he saw the red lightsaber coming right down on him.

With a startled gasp, Anakin woke up.

"Whoa! Easy there."

"You alright there, General?"

His vision came into focus and standing over him was his Padawan along with Peter, Barriss and Captain Rex.

With a grunt, Anakin forced himself to sit up to see where he was.

Right… He was here. On Tython.

He took a nap earlier under a large tree, waiting for the other Jedi to arrive. It was all nice and comfy, having him want to relax.

The entire planet exuded the Force so naturally it was almost a serene feeling that was hard to describe.

Hearing some laughter, Anakin turned his head to see Master Plo Koon standing alongside Commander Wolffe, the ARC troopers Boost, Comet and Sinker of the 104th along with Domino squad.

Obi-Wan was… somewhere around here, possibly with Vision given that he was able to pick up on the presence of the two of them rather easily.

Frankly, everything within the Force felt far easier here than anywhere else he had used or experienced it in the galaxy with Mortis perhaps being the only exception.

"What happened?" He groggily asked with Ahsoka kneeling to his eye level.

"That's what we should be asking you, Master." She quietly said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Are you alright?"

"Y-Yeah," Anakin grunted, rubbing his eyes. "Just had a dream too intense for my own liking. What'd you all do while I was out?"

Peter was the one to give the response. "Not much. Holding the fort until everyone else arrives."

Skywalker nodded as he began walking about, glancing at the two Padawans and the young Avenger. "Anything you found so far?"

"We haven't really wandered out that far." Ahsoka said, now plopping down to sit beside her Master. "Masters Plo and Obi-Wan didn't want us to get lost. Not that we can blame ourselves for wanting to explore more than needed."

"Once the rest of the Jedi and fleets come in, we'll be able to have a full planetary scope of Tython." Captain Rex said, getting a nod from his general.

"Rex~" Said a familiar female voice that caused the Clone Captain to momentarily freeze up.

"Deliah." Rex evenly said with the Zeltron bounding up to them. The Clone was mustering all of his advanced discipline to not openly ogle at the wardrobe the woman was adorned in considering how skintight it was and left little to the imagination.

"This place is utterly gorgeous." Blue gushed out, throwing her hands up to take in the air of the planet. "I knew joining the 501st was the best option. You all go to the nicest places."

"And the worst." Ahsoka pointed out, amusement dancing across her expression at the sight of how Deliah seemed to elicit a different kind of reaction from the Clone Captain and friend.

"Well, some excitement is needed." Blue said with a wink at the Togruta, taking Rex's arm and pulling him close, much to his clear uncomfortable embarrassment. "I've been promised that by all of you."

"You might regret that." Anakin remarked in bemusement, a mischievous grin slowly forming on his features.

"Question is, how soon will that come around."

"With our track record…"

Rex merely exhaled a groan of annoyance, which was ignored by everyone else save for the Zeltron who boldly pecked his cheek, making everyone look at the pair in surprise.

"Don't worry, Rex, that track record of yours also shows you guys have survived and taken on the worse. I know I'm in good hands."

Anakin, Ahsoka and Peter all shared looks and grins that could only spell trouble for the Clone Captain formed.

Seeing this, Rex groaned even louder, much to the others' amusement.

"Hello everyone."

The group turned to see Obi-Wan approaching, having returned from his trek around the area with Vision who wasn't with him.

"Master." Anakin greeted. "Where'd you wander off to?"

"Here and there." He answered offhandedly, momentarily glancing at Rex and Deliah before turning back to his former Padawan. "What did I miss?"

"Something-"

"Shut it." Rex snapped at the web swinger who put on a falsely offended face.

"Sheesh, what's eating you?"

"Her, most likely." Ahsoka said, a knowing grin that Deliah returned and Rex only looked away to hide his face that gained a new color.

Anakin only chuckled at his first-in-commands reaction, truly a novel experience in seeing his usually cool and collected friend in such a state.

"Ahsoka." Barriss chastised.

Rex soon gave the Mirialan a thankful smile. "Thank you, Commander-"

"You need better material." Said smile died soon after. "Something far more suitable at this instance. A simple bite won't do. I believe a man of Rex's stature is akin to a full course meal."

"Barriss." Obi-Wan said in surprise, Anakin and Peter only threw their heads back to laugh and from the laughter heard by the other Clones nearby, it appeared they heard the Mirialans comment.

"Full course meal, eh?" Deliah said with a gleam in her eyes directed at Rex.

"...I hate you… so much…"

"I hate you so much…" Anakin rolled his wrist in a gesturing fashion.

"I hate you, sir."

"Oh c'mon, Rexy~ We can have dessert after the meal." Blue said, leaning closer to the Captain's ear.

"...What is happening right now?" Kenobi finally asked.

"Just having some fun at Rex's expense."

"Clearly."

"Everyone."

All in the area saw Vision flying from above.

"They're here." He announced, descending down to them.

From above, with the skies being clear, they all saw multiple Venators and Acclamators joining the original fleet that found the planet.

With a nod, Kenobi gestured for the others to follow. "Better not keep them waiting."

Soon, the designated landing zone, being that of the closest temple they could find, was filled with Jedi and Clones alike.

Several Jedi Council members were also present being Depa Billaba, Mace Windu, Kit Fisto, Shaak Ti and their newest official member T'ra Saa and her party that they had journeyed with.

Black Panther, Scarlet Witch, Merrin, Ilyana, and a new face were with them.

"Hey guys." Peter greeted, tilting his head slightly at the woman standing between Wanda and T'Challa. "And um… you are?"

"Ros Lai." The Dathomiri Witch introduced herself in a kindly fashion. "If you're wondering, Wanda here dragged me along to come with them."

"Oh you, yeah, I remember Wanda talked about you a bunch of times." Peter said a bit excitedly.

"Hopefully the good bits." Ros said with a smile directed at Maximoff.

"Only the good bits." Wanda assured. "Ros, this is Vision and Peter Parker. Our fellow teammates."

"A pleasure to meet more Avengers." Lai said with a friendly smile.

"And why are you here instead of Dathomir?" Vision inquired.

"Being the official liaison between my people with the rest of the Galactic Republic and Separatist Alliance. Vos, Saa and Tholme insisted on it. They believed that perspective was needed though I am uncertain as to how they mean such a thing."

"Everyone."

"Hey Matt."

Master Luminara departed the shuttle alongside several other members of their Order. Wasn't long before she spotted some familiar faces coming their way.

"My Padawan." She greeted warmly, approaching Barriss who bowed slightly. "None of that, my dear." She placed her hands on the shoulders of the younger Mirialan and displayed a wide smile that shone brightly. "Well done, Barriss. Words cannot express the pride I have in you being my Padawan at this very moment."

Said Padawan beamed at the praise.

Skywalker came up and asked Luminara a question. "Any others planning on coming?"

"The rest of the Council shall be here shortly."

"Wait… all of them? Doesn't that seem a bit much?" Anakin asked.

Plo only shook his head. "For something like this, it's an absolute must. All Jedi shall be hearing this and the entire Council must address our Order."

Luminara picked up from there. "As for the others, it'll take all day; few at most. No need to wait for them, given the rediscovery you've done so far with the Ossus library."

Anakin nodded in understanding. "Yeah. Jocasta and the others assigned to that are probably still transporting everything back to Coruscant. Won't see them for a while."

"Same with others who are on their own personal journeys or assignments."

More Jedi, Clones and Avengers arrived shortly after.

Aayla came with her Clone corps along with Captain Rogers and Quicksilver, the pair moving to meet up with the other Avengers already present.

Grandmaster Yoda arrived shortly after with Sam Wilson and the Bad Batch, Thire, Jek and Ryss.

"Quite the vacation spot." Sam said jokingly.

"Eh~ I don't see what's so big about this place." Said Wrecker. "All I just see is rocks… and trees… and more trees…"

"We're not at the more picturesque locations, big guy. We're just at the designated landing zone."

Soon after, a crack of thunder was heard and from one of the ships came Thor Odinson. And he wasn't alone as a LAAT gunship came down and from it was the rest of the Avengers, the thirteen members all having gathered together now.

"A little over the top, don't you think?"

"Over the top? I consider it tame."

"I believe he'd do a thunderstorm if doing so."

The Thunderer gave a boisterous laugh. "Why not? Tis a joyous occasion for our friends and allies. In fact, I should do so now."

Before the Asgardian could do such a thing, a hand kept his arm down.

"I think it's best to save that for later."

"...Why do you have to be such a party pooper, Steve?" Pouted Thor.

Yoda stood in front of Anakin, Ahsoka, Obi-Wan, Barriss and Plo.

"Well done." The Grandmaster praised with a small smile. "Well done."

"Well done?" Anakin repeated. "Come on Master Yoda, is that all you have to say?"

The short Master only shook his head, his smile remaining in place.

"To say, words do not give justice. To convey," Yoda proceeded to close his eyes and allowed the Force to flow freely through him before sending it in the direction of the five Jedi standing before him.

Soon, the planet that had long since been abandoned for over a millennium, thousands of Jedi stood upon its surface with their troopers and Avengers allies.

"To discuss, much we do but now, disperse." Yoda ordered. "Go. The planet, Tython, calls to us, it does. Knowledge to be found, studied, learned."

"Where do we go, master?" A random Padawan asked and Yoda simply held his hand up.

"Everywhere, anywhere, let the Force be your guide or your eyes." The Grandmaster instructed.

Anyone remotely visibly close gave shrugs or nods of understanding as the assembled mass eventually disbursed.

Yoda tapped on his cane, using the Force to amplify its sound.

"The Council, I call." He said. "To discuss much there is."

Congregated at the closest abandoned temple, the Jedi High Council set up an impromptu meeting site for themselves.

All save for one were physically in attendance yet that was soon rectified as a Cerean Jedi Knight approached the Council.

"Appears I'm the last." Said Master Ki-Adi-Mundi, announcing his presence to the others. "Have I missed anything?"

"Not really." Said Kit Fisto. "Yoda called on us only moments ago. We've merely been commenting on how unique this all is in being here."

Mundi only nodded, joining the disjointed circle of the council with Yoda in the middle, standing atop a rock that elevated him to their eye level.

"Anything to share? Any of you?"

"Nothing as of yet." Obi-Wan said. "Plo and I were the first to come here but we didn't want to just wander around this planet. Not until more of the Order arrived."

"Ahsoka, Barriss and Anakin believed that this was a place that needed the full presence of our Order or a good half of it at the very least." Plo Koon added on. "We agreed and waited for everyone to arrive."

"I almost couldn't believe this place when we arrived." Depa Billaba spoke up, looking up at the ruined temple they stood in front of in disbelieving awe. "The Force… the only way I can compare the feeling my Padawan and I experienced upon our arrival was the shockwaves generated by the Force when the Avengers first came here."

"It is beautiful." Their newest member, T'ra Saa said, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply. "The Force is resonating strongly. I don't know if I'd want to leave."

"It is quite an enticing thought." Luminara remarked.

"But I wonder…" Shaak Ti held a contemplative frown to her. "My brothers and sisters… do you think this world… is it our original home? The Force here, the way it moves and almost dances around us-"

"It's as if it is welcoming us with open arms." Windu finished, arms crossed, an unusually serene expression on the usually stoic Jedi Master.

Saesee Tiin crossed his arms, looking out at the horizon, multiple gunships, fighters, vehicles and Jedi with clones simply walking off into the landscape of the planet.

"Is this truly our homeworld?" The Iktotchi Jedi questioned quietly. "Is this where our Order began?"

"We shall find out soon enough." Kit Fisto said with his trademark easy-going grin in place. "But we have to know something about this place, do we not? I know this isn't the first time I've heard of Tython at the very least."

"Records of Tython are well known to us. Its location -however- was expunged from our archives." Stated Plo Koon. "We don't know how far back. And why for that matter."

"Like how Kamino was deleted, it was to cover matters up." Obi-Wan muttered, a troubled look on his face.

"If this is a similar case…"

Silence surrounded the Councilmembers, questions and speculations forming but were unspoken.

"On a different note…" Kenobi began. "Commander Cody gave me a briefing of the mission I gave him in our time waiting for your arrival. Our troops did a planet-wide scan, locating about eight or so large structures spread across the surface. We believe them to be temples."

Questioning looks were made by several others.

"About?"

"Crumbled, from what some guess upon first readings. We've already sent out teams to survey them for better reports."

"Wonder what they hold of our forgotten past." Fisto mused to himself.

"Only time will tell."

"On your journey, Masters Plo and Obi-wan, you not only came across the lost Ossus library, but you also spoke with the Bendu." Windu said, giving the pair a look with Plo crossing his arms, raising a hand to his chin.

"That we did. Rather… interesting, to say the least."

"And what did you discuss?"

"Something quite poignant that has been on my mind since we left Atollon." Kenobi said with a frown. "Something that is quite applicable to what had led up to the start of the Clone Wars. He spoke of the Light and the Dark and how both can blind those who use it to the obvious threats and dangers they willingly ignore."

The council looked between each other with uncertainty.

"Do you believe what he said, Master Kenobi?"

Obi-Wan was silent for a time, mulling it over in his head until he nodded.

"Yes, my friends. I do believe that we have truly been blinded. In our arrogance and certainty of our position in the galaxy, our willful blindness to the threat of not only the Sith but what has transpired across the galaxy, we have become blinded by the light we strive to serve."

There was a palpable tension and overall negative reaction in hearing Obi-wan admit such a thing.

Yet, much as they wanted to, the Jedi Council all found themselves silent, unable to come up with a rebuke or proper response to their fellow Council members.

"Blinded by the light…" Shaak Ti said in a low voice. "Have we truly strayed from our duty?"

T'ra Saa shook her head. "It wouldn't be the first time such a thing has occurred, my friend. This reminds me of what I know of the Zeffo. How they were greatly attuned to the Light. How those who greatly followed the Dark exploited this in order to bring about their downfall."

"Don't we have Master Chiata and Padawan Marseph conducting an archaeological dig there?"

"We do. They're making steady progress in finding several Zeffonian artifacts within the tombs they've come across."

"A pity they've missed out on taking part on Ossus right now."

Plo Koon brought up another matter. "There's also the temple on Lothal, which we'll need to go back and inspect as we know how to possibly access it now."

"Anything in particular about it?"

"The Bendu stated the Mortis Celestials took part in constructing it."

"Sounds interesting, but concerning." Said Adi Gallia.

"Given what we know of them. They have had other influences throughout the galaxy than neither of us would've known."

"What of this temple you spoke of?" Asks Depa Billaba. "Anything significant of it, given how… peculiar it is?"

"Three levels of the temple. The first to test the bond of a master and apprentice. The second is the advanced course, as to what Bendu stated. But the third, he sounded worried and cautious."

"Worried for what exactly?" Windu asked, gazing intently at Obi-Wan and Plo, both shaking their heads.

"He wasn't exactly clear but he can feel it in the Force, a coming danger far greater than our current predicament."

That unsettled the Council and rather than make any efforts of denying such a thing, they knew better than to do so, especially with a being such as the Bendu.

"We'll take his word for it."

Oppo Rancisis spoke next. "And what of how you were able to rediscover this planet? The padawans, Ahsoka Tano and Barriss Offee."

"Credit goes to them for starting the journey and finishing it." Said Obi-wan. "While Barriss thought of the idea of how we can properly find Tython, Ahsoka made it possible to amplify our search."

"It was quite extraordinary." Says Plo Koon.

"And how was that possible?"

"The Daughter." Kenobi breathed out. "She did more to help save Ahsoka back on Mortis. The Bendu said she was blessed by her. But with how it felt, I believe it was more than that."

The Thisspiasian Master stroked his beard. "Curious. Very curious."

"And what should be done with them?" Asks Saesee Tiin. He received some looks, making him cough into his hand. "Pardon. Didn't mean to make it sound like I was being offensive. What I meant to say is how should we proceed with them? Advance their training? Undergo certain trials for advancements?"

"You believe they're ready to become Knights?"

Luminara seemed to agree with this sentiment. "It's arguable, given what both have experienced respectively. Barriss is near the point where she can take up the last of the trials if she is willing."

"And Ahsoka Tano?" Asks Kit Fisto.

Ki-Adi-Mundi shifted in his spot. "Hard to say. Given…"

"Skywalker." Said Mace. "Not just him, but many others we had advanced, courtesy of this war."

Silence befell upon the Council members on this reminder.

They were desperate at one point in the war. Having to deal with the result of General Grievous making his first appearance on the battlefield, fending off against five Jedi all on his own with only Ki-Adi-Mundi, Shaak Ti and Aayla Secura as survivors; but in critical condition. They had to forgo a number of trials for various padawans, in order to have more knights on the field.

Controversial it still is to this day on their decision if every knight promoted were indeed ready for the rank.

"Decided it shall be, by master and by Padawan."

"By Master and Padawan?" Several of the Council repeated.

"Exceptional situation, this is." Yoda said in deep thought. "To be discussed, it must. Between Unduli and Skywalker's Padawans."

"Seems a bit rushed." Oppo commented.

"Wouldn't be the first time we've done such a thing." Plo Koon stated. "Many Padawans were thrust into knighthood at the start of the war."

"We shall have to bide our time then." Mace Windu declared. "We've only just arrived on this planet and the prospect of Padawans Tano and Offee's possible Knighthood can be discussed at a later time. Right now… there is much to be done here."

Various nods and mutters of agreement were sounded off in the impromptu meeting room.

"Before we go about our exploration, if that's what we should call it, on this planet," Shaak Ti spoke up. "Kenobi, Plo, was there anything else that you learned of in your travels? Anything you saw or perhaps heard from the Bendu?"

There was a moment of silence between the two Masters until Plo released a baritone hum.

"There was one other thing that came up, possibly two." Koon stated. "He did have a private word with Anakin and Skywalker was vague as to what was spoken."

Several eyes landed right on Kenobi.

This got him to hold up his hands in response.

"I'm as confused as the others. Anakin was rather tight-lipped about it. Only stating it was a personal matter as he needed to self-reflect on it."

"And the other?"

"He referred to young Parker as a Totem." Plo said. "Does that term mean anything to you?"

"Totem…" Obi-Wan's brows furrowed. "That's not the first time Parker was called such a thing."

"Was he not called that on Mortis?" Depa brought up, recalling the small detail from Master Kenobi and Skywalker's reports on their time there.

"By the Son, yes. Even by the Father, from what Vision and Anakin told me." Kenobi confirmed.

"Any idea what this Totem refers to?" T'ra inquired with intrigue.

All the other Council members got was a shake of the head from Kenobi.

"Our time on Tython, answers may be revealed." Said Yoda. "On this matter and others."

"If we can actually find and resolve them. Or what was acquired from Ossus. It was how we located the Lothal temple in the first place before seeking the Bendu's guidance."

The others nodded with some bouts of silence for pondering.

Mace then cleared his throat, gaining their attention. "With the topic of advancements still up in the air, I would like to discuss…"

Across the planet of Tython, the eight temples that have long since been abandoned suddenly found themselves filled with Jedi and Clones.

From top to bottom, they were explored by many members of the Order.

Holocrons, scrolls, books, data cards and an assortment of other cataloged and inscribed knowledge were found in these temples.

All over, Jedi were sitting down, standing, doing nothing but delving deep into the seemingly endless well of history and knowledge they now all had at their disposal.

In one of the temples that were built within a mountainscape, a particularly large Holocron, the size of a Wookiee was unlocked.

Many Jedi and over half the Avengers were in attendance as the Holocron split itself apart as it was opened.

"Boy, someone is clearly compensating."

"Pietro…"

"What? I'm stating a fact."

"You don't have to be crass about it."

"He's not wrong." His twin sister muttered, getting a look from Aayla.

A spirit with no discernable shape appeared and it began morphing and changing appearance every few seconds.

It went from being a Togruta to a Twi'lek then a Rodian followed by a human and then a Wookiee and so on and so forth, constantly changing its species. The only unifying feature of this ever-shifting spirit was the Jedi robes that it wore whenever it changed its appearance.

Wanda rose an eyebrow when seeing this. "Either there is a design flaw or someone just can't settle with a simple guardian form."

"No," Tholme eyed it analytically. "I believe this was intentionally done."

"Why?" A Padawan had asked aloud. "What even is this Holocron?"

The shifting spirit split off into six more forms and all faced the audience it had gathered.

"Greetings, seekers of knowledge and history." The six spirits had disembodied and echoing voices. "We are the keepers of the story of our Order."

"Fascinating." Jocasta Nu, who was in attendance, spoke up in awe. "By history, what do you mean?"

"We are the collective knowledge that all Jedi have placed into here that details all the history of our Order from its inception 36,453 years ago."

That made many bulge their eyes out, jaws drop upon the floor and have an assortment of shocked reactions to hear such a thing.

"And that would explain the size." Tholme stated. "A large collective database."

"Rather risky if someone or something were to break this."

"But hang on, how is there a Holocron that's this old? Aren't Holocrons like… how old are they actually?"

The disembodied spirits heard this question, addressing all in attendance.

"Holocrons were a later discovery for our Order but this area is known as the wellspring of knowledge. The recorded history of the Je'Daii and Jedi Orders respectively were stored here until this Holocron was constructed to house all the accumulated knowledge that was gained over the many thousands of years that the Order had stood."

There were murmurs and whispers shared between all, many soon speaking aloud, hurling questions at the Holocron until they were all silenced by Luminara and Shaak Ti, using a combined Force amplification of their voices to quiet down the hall.

"Everyone, I understand many of you hold a great amount of excitement in being here." Shaak Ti spoke softly yet her voice was heard by all. "But if we are to be here and learn from this Holocron, we must conduct one question at a time."

There was a pause from all Jedi in attendance when Commander Gree, of all people, spoke up.

"Why not start from the beginning? The very beginning? About the whole Jee die and Jedi Order."

Many looks of surprise were sent in the way of the Commander though they didn't last as the spirits of the Holocron responded, reshaping themselves into the planet of Tython and eight shapes that looked like the crumbling temples scattered across the planet.

"If you are referring to the Je'Daii, then we will be happy to oblige." The many voices of the Holocron said at the same time. "It began with the First Migration when the Tho'Yor brought the first disciples of the Force to this planet…"

The Holocron spirits began to regale all within the chamber about the origins of the Je'Daii Order, of how species from all across the galaxy were brought here. With every scene, and every sequence of events, the spirits morphed to show what it was like when these crucial moments in history took place.

Above all else was the creation of the Je'Daii code with three humanoids where one was a red-skinned species with tendrils from its cheeks that none recognized.

The three figures then spoke aloud the mantra of the Je'Daii order.

There is no ignorance; there is knowledge.

There is no fear; there is power.

I am the heart of the Force.

I am the revealing fire of light.

I am the mystery of darkness.

In balance with chaos and harmony,

Immortal in the Force.

The code was a stark contrast to the one all within the chamber had been raised upon.

Some could claim it to sound arrogant and conceited yet they couldn't find themselves to do so. It was a different time and era.

To Wanda, she knew the two codes of the Sith and Jedi respectively. It wasn't long before she recalled what was considered the in-between.

Leaving the one chamber, Wanda went to a separate room and pulled a pair of Holocrons from her sack. She activated them soon after, having the spirits of Kreia and XoXaan appear.

Wasn't long for the two Sith spirits to glance about curiously.

"This doesn't seem to be your residence on Coruscant." Said Kreia.

"Are we back on Dathomir?" XoXaan drably asks until her face changed, a deep frown visible for Wanda to see. "Wait… this place… It feels familiar to me."

"No, we ain't. I brought you out so we can talk." Wanda stated.

"And where are Ilyana and Merrin?" Kreia inquired.

"Wandering about. Seeing the sites of Tython." She answered offhandedly.

This got quite the reaction out of the two spirits.

"Wait… what did you say we were again?" Asked the Lady of Betrayal, her voice low and not believing what she just heard.

"Tython. That's where we're at right now. Look, it's a long story and-"

XoXaan threw a hand up to her mouth and her body trembled.

"T-Tython?" She whispered in a disbelieving voice. "We're on… we're… we're home."

As much as Wanda wanted to be snarky or do a verbal jab at the Sith Founder, she kept quiet.

It was rather strange to witness the ancient Sith be very emotional.

"Am I missing something?"

"You clearly are, Wanda." Said Kreia. "This is the ancient home of the Jedi Order and any Force sensitives out in the galaxy. To a good portion of us, this is considered a holy world. And I believe this was actually XoXaan's home before her exile."

Seeing the weeping XoXaan, Wanda shifted uncomfortably in her spot. "Should we give her a moment?"

Glancing over to her fellow Sith spirit, the Lady of Betrayal gave a subtle nod.

Leaving the one Holocron where it is, Wanda took the other with her as Kreia spoke.

"Are we truly on Tython?"

"I wouldn't really joke about it. It's a big deal with what happened recently with this Force beacon that went out not long ago and it originates from here."

"Curious. Any idea why it came so suddenly?"

"That's why we're here to find out. Most of the Jedi are theorizing it's a means of rediscovering their roots, not that I'm complaining. With how dogmatic they are, it's best to get a good refresher."

Kreia gave an understanding nod to this unintentional argument.

"I don't know why I feel no rage." XoXaan whispered to herself, the other two in the room hearing her. "I don't understand it. My people, Ajunta Pall, all of us, we were exiled from our brothers and sisters. Thrown into the galactic voice in a vain effort of false repentance. We held nothing but rage and contempt for them all. We wanted our revenge, we wanted to kill them all for ousting us. So why? Why do I feel no rage and anger?"

Wanda shifted awkwardly. "What do you feel?"

The first Sith Lady contemplated on this and hung her head, almost in shame. "Relief to be here but… apathy as well. Tired, even. I just… I don't know how to process this, honestly."

It was a strange sight for the Scarlet Witch, seeing someone she didn't like all that much display such vulnerability.

She wasn't sure if she should say anything. Words of comfort from her may as well be ash in her spiritual mouth.

Kreia was silent for a time before speaking once more.

"What have you learned since coming here?"

"There are a lot of libraries here. And there's a big Holocron in the other room that apparently holds all the history of the Je'Daii Order and their inheritors."

"The wellspring of eternal knowledge." XoXaan spoke up, a reminiscent expression for the pair to see. "There was a time when every Jedi was to go to that well, contributing their knowledge to the endless spring. All knowledge was accepted. All of it."

"At least nothing was discriminated against until Ajunta Pall and his followers caused the rift." Kreia pointed out.

"We wanted to explore the advanced forms that the Force bestowed upon us." XoXaan vehemently argued, her rage returning.

"I don't think mutilating and mutating animals into monsters is something most normal people accept." Wanda deadpanned, feeling whatever sympathy she had for the Sith Lady dissipated considerably. "You have seen Earth movies right? That kinda crap is "frowned upon", in the friendliest way I could say it."

"I haven't seen your culture's forms of entertainment, Maximoff. You keep me locked up in case you forgot."

"Oh yeah, you're right." Wanda smugly said, enjoying the irritation she was causing for XoXaan. "Kreia is a much better watch friend than you could ever be."

"Some of what you showed me was pointless drabble." Kreia flatly said. "At least your teammates had the foresight to show me some philosophical films and shows. I can't comprehend how you can stomach those drab shows regarding romance."

Wanda felt attacked, looking up at her pseudo-mentor with a small fire in her eyes. "They pass the time and are typically guilty pleasures."

"More like boring pleasures. No real development. Everything crammed down within half an hour to nearly two hours and the only accomplishment being the death of intelligence."

Coming from someone like Kreia, Wanda felt a spike through her heart, puffing her cheeks out and turning away in a huff.

"You just don't appreciate true art." She defensively said.

"No, I appreciate-"

"What's going on in here?"

The Avenger and two Sith spirits froze up momentarily at the sudden voice that came from the entrance to the private room. Slowly looking over, Wanda saw Quinlan Vos standing at the entrance with a questioning look on his face.

She opened her mouth to answer him when her eyes widened, realizing something that she failed to register.

XoXaan and Kreia were still out of their Holocrons!

And Quinlan Vos was looking directly at them now.

"Sith Holocrons?" Vos whispered in surprise. "Did you find those here?"

Rather than make an excuse or go along with what Quinlan just asked, Wanda strangely found herself shaking her head at him. "No…"

The Kiffar Jedi looked at the Holocrons and then at Wanda with a peculiar look. "How long have you had those?"

"...Shortly after coming into this galaxy."

Vos was surprised by this. "That long?"

"Yeah."

"Do you know how dangerous they are?" He asked, not in an accusatory manner but one of curiosity. "How they corrupt-"

"Oh please. They ain't corrupting as many of you Jedi are led to believe." Wanda defended. "In fact, they have been quite insightful. Plus, I'm not a Jedi or a Sith. They can't influence me unless I let it."

The Jedi Master saw a look of pride and approval appear on the face of Kreia whilst XoXaan rolled her eyes, a comical glare directed at the Avenger.

Seeing this, Vos found himself huffing in amusement.

"I can imagine." Quinlan mused aloud.

Wanda raised a brow at the sudden change in his attitude, his casual dismissal of her response as he came up to the two Sith Spirits with a look of intrigue.

"So you're the Sith Spirits that reside within these Holocrons, eh? Not simple guardians?" The Jedi addressed the Sith spirits conversationally. "What're your names?"

The First Lady of the Sith puffed her chest out arrogantly, pride riddling her face as she gazed down at Quinlan with a degree of superiority and contempt.

"Listen well, Jedi," She said the word with venom. "I am one of the founders of the Sith Order that shall never perish nor be stamped out. Where your predecessors saw our works as abnormal, we saw ours as a natural progression in the Force, our mastery over it and how we can change the galaxy to serve our needs rather than us submitting to the Will of others and of the Force. I am XoXaan."

Vos gave her a blank look until he responded.

"Right~"

On earth, a certain actor sneezed.

Back on Tython, Maximoff only shook her head at XoXaans over-the-top introduction.

"She's all high and mighty." Wanda said bluntly. "Stroke her ego enough and just the right way, she'd favor you in turn."

"Aren't they all?"

"Yeah, but she just has it in spades."

XoXaan's eyes twitched with a low growl emanating from her lips.

"It's always like this between these two." Kreia spoke up with a heavy sigh. "I sometimes wonder how I get a migraine in my present state."

"Some things often transcend death, Kreia."

"If so, I don't like that in particular."

"Kreia," Quinlan frowned in thought. "That name… where have I heard that name before?"

"In life, I was previously known as a member of the Jedi Order. Later, I became Darth Traya before I was betrayed and struck down by Nihilus and Sion. After that, I trained the Exile."

"You…" Vos looked up at her in awe. "You are the teacher of Revan and Meetra Surik. The leader of the old Sith Triumvirate."

Kreia appeared to scoff at that last part.

"My greatest failures." The old spirit said with a shake of her head. "Only Revan and Surik were the ones who I can proudly say took all of my teachings and reshaped the galaxy for the better. Nihilus and Sion were broken fools, same as I."

The spirit hung her head, a forlorn look coming over her.

"Oh, how the Force loves to play its rhymes over and over again. It's almost maddening when you just look at the great many schisms that have occurred throughout the Order's history, the rise of new Sith Lords that threatened to destabilize everything, the cataclysms around every corner."

"I would say you're exaggerating if it weren't true." Quinlan remarked.

"Same here." Said the Sith Founder.

"Really? You'd admit such a thing?" Wanda said with a raised brow, the tattooed woman scoffing at the Avenger.

"I took part in the earliest known one, which soon led to the Sith Order's founding. Even a number of my collaborators had schisms of our own with how we wanted our Order to function." Spoke XoXaan. "You, Kreia, challenged the Order at your time given the Council's bits of corruption and unorthodox means of taking care of their issues."

"Rather arguable and debatable on how it all went, but yes." Said the Lady of Betrayal. "Revan was the most known, using him to clean up many messes once they tampered with his mind. It was from there that things naturally flowed through Revan's actions in his odd form of redemption."

The Kiffar Jedi released a half breath half laugh, shaking his head.

"Never would have thought that I would be talking to Sith spirits like yourselves today." Vos commented. "Strange life, isn't it?"

It was then that the spirit of Darth Traya sensed something within Quinlan Vos, something she had not sensed before.

"You…" Kreia regarded the Jedi Master carefully. "You have been touched by the Dark Side."

"I fell into it." Vos admitted with a straight face.

"But you came back."

"I climbed back out of that pit." Quinlan said, looking down at his hand. "But I didn't do it alone. The love of my life helped. As did my old Padawan and close friends."

"Love of your life?" XoXaan said in surprise, gaining a roguish grin from the Jedi.

"I'm different from the rest, just so you know." The Kiffar Jedi said with a cocky smirk.

The Scarlet Witch now had a more bemused expression. "Clearly."

"Surprised some Jedi admit they've kept such attachments, one of which involves a romantic relationship."

"It's not known by the majority. Only those who I trust."

There was a gleam in the eye of the spirit, a look of mirth crossing over Kreia's face. "Yes. My former padawan was much like you."

Quinlan eyed the Sokovian. "Does Steve know about this?"

"He does. As does the team. I revealed Kreia and XoXaan to them not long after our reunion."

"Surprised they haven't brought it up with the Order."

"We all decided to keep this private." Wanda admitted. "We are well aware of the Council's attitude towards the Dark Side and its artifacts."

Vos let out a 'pfft', shaking his head. "Tell me about it. Force knows how those old Nerf herders are gonna react to whatever they find here. Already saw a few things clearly not of Jedi make and more in line with the Sith."

"They would be beyond foolish to destroy or ignore such teachings." Kreia said derisively. "Before my fall, I was a historian, gathering any and all relics pertaining to the Force, learning the ancient mysteries. Always, there were more questions when coming across new Holocrons or old texts. I soon learned the Council wished to eradicate and defeat the Sith at every turn yet from nearly every era of the Order, they always failed to know them."

"Well, to be fair, you guys have done the job for us more often than not."

Kreia didn't find a retort in her as she knew this to be true. As does XoXaan given the expression of acceptance she had.

"Kinda curious where you found these two."

"Dathomir," Wanda answered. "It was on a ship that crashed there and it looked really old. They were in these stone caskets."

"Probably taken from Korriban." Vos mused. "Or some other place with the Dark Side. Malachor V?"

"XoXaan's was originally on Korriban. Don't know on Kreia of where she kept hers. Though I did find my lightsaber on the crashed ship their Holocrons were stored."

"Lightsaber?"

Wanda reached into her coat and held out the dual-sided lightsaber, earning Quinlan's look of intrigue.

"That's the Sith language." He noted.

"Yeah. Figured that. Don't know how to read it, but someone pointed out who it previously belonged to."

"...Do I even wanna know?"

"If you wanna get an aneurysm with repercussions."

Vos snorted. "Then no."

"As I stated before, I'm not affected by Kreia and XoXaan's holocrons. So the Sith lightsaber ain't gonna affect me as well. Which I find hogwash." She tossed it up and down a few times. "Besides, I've grown attached to it."

"Yeah, I figured out that much by now." The Jedi said with a smirk.

"Would've thought you'd try to take it."

Quinlan raised his hands. "I'm not that stringent or stingy like the Council and the way they've hoarded all the Jedi and Sith artifacts we have in our temple. Most I understand, given levels of clearance, depending on how one is prepared to handle such items. Others, I find odd at times if they aren't going to be looked over or merely collecting dust."

"Yes. You have several Sith artifacts in your vault. Tell me, have any of you ever bothered to check them out for authenticity? Or to see how dangerous they really are?"

He adopted a serious expression. "We have. Several times over. I even took time to research them, with precaution, so I may know what to expect while out on the field."

"Regular artifacts, I can understand. But what of Holocrons?"

"We don't touch 'em. Don't want another incident of some initiates and padawans getting corrupted like several decades ago."

Several looks were received upon hearing this.

"Rather lax on the security, I say."

"I concur."

"Why ask about 'em?"

"Properly cataloging them. Seeing if they are indeed the Holocron of a particular Sith or something else."

"Meaning… what…"

"They could be fake, do we need to spell it out to you?"

"Why would you assume, Wanda?"

"Sith typically want to one-up the Jedi, for starters." Maximoff said with a shrug. "If I were them, I'd wanna keep an ear out with listening devices and other measures to know them. Some of that I got from Natasha. And best way to do that, planting a bug in something one least suspects."

"So you have learned something." The First Lady of the Sith said with a snide tone.

"I learned from Kreia, XoXaan," Wanda said with an unamused look at the Sith Spirit that bothered her to no end. "All I learned from you is that you're annoying and your Holocron was made by you with a stick up your ass." The pair were glaring at one another again, much to the annoyance of Kreia.

"For Force's sake you two." She groused out, dragging her hand down her face.

Quinlan certainly wasn't expecting such a thing from the spirits of ancient Sith Lords but still, he found himself pitying Kreia's predicament.

"You have my sympathies." The Kiffar said with a strained smile before turning back to Wanda. "What'd Steve say about all this?"

"I already told you-"

"But anything in particular?"

Wanda shook her head. "He trusts that I know what I'm doing."

Quinlan rubbed his chin, releasing a sigh and a shrug.

"Well alright. If he trusts ya know what you're doing, who am I to say anything? Can't exactly disagree with the guy since he's shacking up with Aayla."

Wanda deadpanned at the Jedi. "Did you have to phrase it like that?"

"What? She's with an amazing guy, wouldn't you agree?"

The Scarlet Witch shook her head but still found herself amused.

"Right? Come on, I know you agree."

A sigh escaped the Sokovian's lips. Eyes grew a tad distant on their gaze.

"Are you gonna tell anyone?"

"What? About them?" Vos shook his head. "Not my secret to tell. You can reveal it to the Council and whoever you want in the Order. You're an Avenger so I know my trust isn't misplaced."

The Sokovian was certainly surprised by such a statement.

"That's quite a thing to say." Wanda found herself stating. "You really trust us that much?"

"Hey, my old student found love with your leader and I've worked with a bunch of your friends by now. I know you guys are good people. You having these Holocrons doesn't make you a bad person or a Sith. I ain't worried about all that."

"You seem rather too willing for such a matter."

Quinlan shook his head. "It's just these eyes recognize someone working to undo past regrets and sins. I would know, like I told the old lady, I fell to the Dark Side at one point during this war, Wanda. Khaleen, Delta Squad and Master Tholme pulled me out. If you do happen to "fall" or whatever, you got your friends and family to bail you out."

"You sound so sure." Wanda muttered.

"Experience." He plainly responded. "Besides, I think there will be plenty of surprises in store from you lot in the coming future."

"That remains to be seen."

Quinlan patted her back. "Come on, Avenger. Have faith. When all else fails, faith can help you through the toughest of times."

-Scene Cut-

Elsewhere on the planet, Barriss and Ahsoka were exploring with Peter. A brief shadow crossed their vision, given it came from Morai who flew over them.

The Convor fluttered down to perch herself on Ahsoka's shoulder, nuzzling herself against the Togruta's head.

"She seems to be enjoying herself here." Barriss noted, affectionately rubbing the top of Morai's head.

The owl-like bird hooted in affirmation, puffing her feathers out, moving her head about while Barriss giggled.

Peter looked over at the girls with a smile before turning back to the path they were walking down.

Well, the path would be a polite way of describing the ruined and splintered cobblestone on the ground that was once a proper road that was utilized by the Jedi Order of the past. Then again, the entire planet had ruins littering its surface of bygone eras so there that is.

"So girls, any particular direction the Force is pointing you to?" He asked, hearing Morai release a small hoot, fluttering from Ashoka's shoulder and into Barriss' arms.

"The Force is emanating all over this place in a way I've never experienced." Ahsoka said, taking in the natural beauty of the planet. "Even Mortis doesn't compare."

"We're merely going around blind. I don't know what may happen if we try to really focus." Barriss admitted, lifting Morai up to place her chin atop her feathery head.

"So we're just taking in the sights."

Ahsoka shrugged. "I can be fine with that. Taking the opportunity to relax, de-stress and not worry about the present troubles at a different time."

"We have done much." Said the Mirialan padawan. "As much as I'd want to do more so soon. I need to think about my health and not burn myself out."

"Are you feeling alright?" Peter worriedly asked.

"Yes. I've been seeing Sam's therapy sessions regularly to get a clearer consciousness and feel relieved. And I admit, it's better than simply meditating."

"Keeping everything bottled ain't always the solution. Best to talk it out with someone who you can trust."

"Yes, I've learned that the hard way." Barriss softly said.

Both Ahsoka and Peter leaned on her sides with the former pecking her cheek.

"We're here too, ya know."

Offee smiled at that, leaning her forehead against Ahsoka's before doing the same for Peter.

"I'm thankful for that."

The trio walked along the dirt path, occasionally up and down some hills to enjoy the given scenery. They kept attention to any possible markers for where they might remember for their return trip back to base if they didn't want to call in for transport.

After a while, Peter made a comment about Morai.

"Wonder how long it will be before she gets antsy if she doesn't find any food to poach."

"This place has a lot that she can find to eat, we don't have to worry about that." Ahsoka assured, booping her nose against Morai's beak.

"Hope so. Cuz I don't want to deal with a cranky bird."

"Oh please, Peter, like that could ever happen."

"Tell me that once you've been to New York. Those damn pigeons can be the biggest bunch of douchebags on the planet."

"And what's worse than these pigeons?"

"Oh, there's plenty. I just don't want to find out anytime soon."

Back in New York, a certain individual, using the motif of a predatory bird, sneezed while smuggling some goods back to his warehouse.

"Speaking of, you know what this is missing?" Peter said with a thoughtful expression.

"What?"

"A picnic basket. Or something at least good to eat for this hiking date."

"You consider this a date?" Ahsoka said in amusement.

"Why wouldn't it be? Three of us, all together, just having our time alone without anyone breathing down our necks."

"I wouldn't mind." Said Barriss. "But I see your point. Would be better with the food."

"We'll just have to scavenge if we don't want to use our rations."

"How about hunting?" Ahsoka suggested. "Maybe we can cook something to eat."

"Hunting?" Parker parroted in bemusement. "What could we hunt?"

"Any of the local game."

Peter chuckled at this while Barriss simply shook her head in amusement, leaning her head back on Ahsoka's shoulder, the three teens continuing their walk down their path.

Eventually, the three of them passed in front of a clear, flowing river that made them stop. Looking some distance away, they saw it was connected to a lake.

"Oh, this looks lovely." Barriss said.

"Let's stop here then." Peter suggested, pulling away from his girlfriend's to kneel down, putting his hand in the water and smiled. "Ah, that's perfect."

Ahsoka hummed to herself, walking over to Peter and crouched to place her hand in the water, closing her eyes in a satisfied manner as the water passed between her fingers.

"Now I really do want a picnic basket." The Queens-born superhero remarked. "It would be perfect right now."

"Next time." Barriss stated. "Now that we know this place, we can plan for a proper date here."

"Sounds like a plan." Ahsoka said approvingly.

Reaching the lake, the three enjoyed the sight of the crisp clean water untouched by sentient life in years.

"It's beautiful." Barriss whispered, taking in a deep breath of the cool, fresh air of the lake.

Not only was the air clear but with the Force permeating the air, it felt like a rush that also served to make the Mirialan Padawan relax even more.

Morai took off into the skies, flying around the lake in an almost child-like fashion as she hooted and chirped happily.

Ahsoka had removed her boots and stood in the water, enjoying the back and forth of the water. Feeling some sand between her toes and soles of her feet.

"I wouldn't mind staying here a while." She murmured.

"Me too." Her fellow Padawan said. "Maybe we can set up a cottage here. A nice little getaway when all is said and done."

"That would be nice." Said Peter. "Wouldn't mind the rural retreat every so often. Reminds me of what Natasha and the others said about Mr. Barton's home."

"Hawkeye, yes?" Barriss asked, seeing Spider-man nod. "Perhaps when you reunite with the Avengers on Earth, you can ask him for advice."

"I probably will. I think I'd like the idea of building a home."

"Building a home." Ahsoka said to herself, thinking it to be such a strange concept.

The Jedi Temple was her home and always has been and probably always will be.

But now? With her growing relationship with Peter and Barriss… she wasn't sure what can happen between the three of them but having a place to call home with the two people she loved… sounded nice.

It was hard to think about what may come after the war. After Ultron. The immediate future is one thing, but the distant one is another.

Briefly, the memory of her possibly talking to her future self on Mortis popped up. How she seemed happy with what was applied back then on her relationship and feelings. Yet the vague warning she also got seemed to encompass that by a lot.

"The water temperature is perfect." Peter stated, breaking Ahsoka out of her thoughts. "Care for a dip?"

"I do believe that sounds quite nice." Barriss concurred.

The Togruta simply shrugged in agreement.

Each was disrobing to some level of capacity. Ahsoka didn't do all that much, only taking off most of her equipment while taking off her arm sleeves and leggings. For Barriss, it was quite a lot to be in a similar state, given her attire covered nearly everything from the neck down. She even let loose her hair from whatever confinement there is, letting it briefly flow in the wind. As for Peter, he pretty much got rid of everything. Of course, he would've been completely nude if it weren't for Simby morphing into a pair of black and white swim trunks for him to wear.

"Nice, Simby." Peter said, patting his swimwear.

He felt the gratitude from the symbiote in the back of his head.

The Avenger heard a grunt from the girls and he looked up and immediately felt himself freeze up at the sight of Ahsoka and Barriss stretching out.

'Holy smokes!' Were his internal thoughts at the sight of his two lovers and it didn't take long for them to notice.

"Are you alright, Peter?" Barriss inquired, frowning slightly at his expression.

The teen stammered slightly, fumbling with his words.

"Y-Yeah, I am, I am, I just," He coughed into his hands, feeling his face heat up more, gesturing to the two of them. "Just uh… just… wow. Ahem. You two are… are just… wow… again."

He knew they were lovely just the way they were. What he didn't expect was them developing quite nicely in all the right places. It was worse when the two were stretching when they unintentionally showed off their goods. Not just their assets, but their fit and toned limbs.

Made him realize he wasn't just attracted to their fun and cute personalities, but fit… gorgeous women in general. He can only imagine how stunning they'll be years from now.

Ahsoka and Barriss looked at each other and they too soon sported small coloring on their cheeks, the former turning to the New Yorker.

"Well now, glad to know you find us attractive." She cheekily said though her posture conveyed some shyness.

"I would be the universe's biggest idiot if I didn't think that."

"And you would be."

"Ahsoka." Barriss chided though she was smiling softly. "You are quite handsome yourself, Peter."

"Very." Ahsoka said, placing a hand on Parker's muscular abdomen. She bit her bottom lip when her fingers traced them.

"Oi, hands to yourself, perv." He jokingly said, making Ahsoka giggle before they shared a quick kiss.

He soon jolted in his spot when feeling Barriss come from behind, mushing her mounds on his back while wrapping her slim, toned arms to his front to feel his muscular chest.

"Oh, someone's ticklish." She mischievously said, missing the glint in her boyfriend's eye.

"Two can play at that game." Peter shot back, using his super strength to snag her close and run his hands down her hips.

The Padawan shrieked in surprised laughter.

"Hold on Barriss! I'll save you!" Ahsoka proclaimed in faux bravado, only for Peter to grab her and tickle her in return, freeing up Barriss.

"We shall double-team our foe!" The Mirialan declared.

She pounced on Peter, causing the three to fall into the water, and began fussing around.

Peter broke free from them and ran off into the water, his muscles propelling him away from the pair.

"Hey~ you have super strength, that's not fair." Ahsoka whined though her grin remained in place.

"You have the Force or did you forget?"

"Oh, it seems we did." Barriss slyly said before using the Force to make him momentarily float upwards.

He flailed in the air before landing in the water in quite the belly flop.

Getting back up from the water, he playfully glared at the Mirialan.

He saw the way she smugly looked at him and it was clear he needed to rectify that. Using his speed to catch her off guard, she found herself scooped up into a bridal carry and was promptly tossed into the deeper part of the water.

Ahsoka jumped onto Peter's back and the pair fell forward into the water. They surfaced a moment later only for Peter to get Barriss on his back, the Padawan playfully pulling on him.

"You shall suffer the consequences, Peter Parker."

"I'd like to see you try, Barriss Offee."

"She shall succeed with assistance from Ahsoka Tano."

The trio playfully fought each other in the water, allegiances constantly shifting with momentum being thrown between them all. Splashes occurred left and right as they roughhoused to and from. Dunking's, pulling's, the works.

Eventually, it "devolved" into the three of them just holding each other, kissing here and there, and just enjoying the cool water.

At the lake's edge, Morai watched on as she soon spotted something in the water, dove in, and came out with a small fish for her to dine on.

In the water, Barriss was enjoying the moment. Lying back and floating, feeling the gentle rocking of the current. She could feel weightless and not be bothered at all.

For a brief moment, she felt all her troubles fall away from her.

She didn't have to glance at her lovers to know they relatively felt the same way.

Diving once more into the water, the Mirialan was about to surface when she sensed something through the Force. Curious, she turned and searched the lake's depths.

Swimming deeper, she spotted something before deciding to surface.

Gasping for air, she briefly startled Peter and Ahsoka.

"Whoa there Barriss," The former said. "Practicing your Little Mermaid audition?"

"Little Mermaid?" Ahsoka parroted.

"Animated movie, I'll show you later." He assured, looking back to his other girlfriend. "Everything alright, Barriss? You came up real hurriedly there."

"Yes, I believe I found something." She answered with anticipation.

"Being…" Ahsoka said with a raised brow.

"An underwater cave. I wish to explore it but it goes pretty deep. I am unsure if we shall make it."

Ahsoka brightened up at that. "Well, you're in luck. Master Skywalker always has me come prepared for these sorts of things. Personal experience from him and Master Kenobi."

"Uh, what?"

"Just come on."

Once acquiring some rebreather tubes from Ahsoka's pack, with her lovers beside her, they swam deep into the water. Barriss was the guide, showing them the way to her little discovery.

The deeper they swam, the darker it got, and it wouldn't be long before their vision would darken once reaching their destination.

It was indeed an underwater cave. The trio somewhat wished they brought some equipment to light their way; especially their lightsabers as they would've been waterproof with their tight sealants. The padawans had to rely on the Force to guide them. Peter merely had the symbiote to encompass him and help him see into the dark.

Eventually, they made it to some sort of incline with the rocks, having them realize they were reaching an air pocket within the underwater cave.

Upon surfacing, they all got a fresh intake of air into their lungs as they slowly walked along the cavern floor.

"Whoa~" Peter looked around. "I feel like I'm in Uncharted right now. Nathan Drake would love to do something like this."

"Wonder what this place is supposed to be." Ahsoka said aloud, taking note of the worn-down structural builds within the cavern. "Any reason why the Force nudged you here, Barriss?"

Offee only looked ahead, squinting her eyes. It was strange how, despite them being in an underwater cave, visibility wasn't an issue here. "We'll find out eventually."

Barriss felt the pull of the Force, having it guide her and the others to some unknown destination.

They went deeper into the cave, carefully navigating it as best they could. After what felt like hours, they came upon what appeared to be an altar or stone table with an odd assortment of items on it. Some were better to see, given the glow coming off from a few items.

"Lightsabers… some holocrons and data cards?" Ahsoka noted, seeing each of these three items being organized on small platforms, all having a kind of inscription on them.

"They're all… huh," Barriss squinted at the markings. "These looks like… ciphers? The language is all written in code."

"So are we supposed to discover something with these?" Peter asked, holding his hand out hesitantly before picking up one of the Holocrons. His spider-sense didn't go off so he figured there weren't any traps here. "Holocrons look a bit more interesting than the last ones I've seen."

Ahsoka and Barriss didn't comment on this, only thinking he was referring to the ones back during the Holocron Heist of the Jedi Temple.

If they only knew better…

One by one, the trio soon activated the present lightsabers to illuminate the darkened cave.

"Green, Blue, Purple, Red. Interesting colors here." Ahsoka said dryly when inspecting the ancient lightsabers. Though she was a bit hesitant when she had the activated red lightsaber in her hand.

Red wasn't always synonymous with Dark Jedi and the Sith. A number in the Jedi Order used to wield red-bladed lightsabers. Master Adi Gallia used to have a rare red Kyber crystal, but after the death of Qui-gon Jinn on Naboo at the hands of Maul, she traded her red one for blue in order to settle the nerves of others in the Order. A'sharad Hett even had a pair, but gave them up around the time when the Clone Wars began to use traditional green. From what went around, the Tusken Raider Jedi was pressured into it.

Regardless, holding a red lightsaber, even if briefly was odd for her. Yet Ahsoka felt this blade was different, but couldn't quite put it to words.

"Red and blue do make purple." Peter idly said, playfully waving the blue and green ones away from the girls. "Probably why that one was in the middle."

"Red and blue make purple…" Barriss quietly said, statically holding the purple-bladed weapon. "A balance of the light and the dark, perhaps."

"Master Windu has a purple lightsaber." Ahsoka pointed out.

"So Nick Fury's twin brother has a bit of the dark side in him?"

"I think it's a bit more complicated than that, love." Barriss said, having the violet blade recede back into the hilt for her to examine all sides of it. "The craftsmanship on this lightsaber… I've never seen anything like it. It's perfectly balanced."

"Can I see?" Ahsoka asked and wordlessly got handed the blade. The reaction was nearly instant. "Whoa, it really is."

"How can you guys tell? Jedi thing?"

"Yeah." Both girls said at the same time.

Peter hummed to himself, turning back to all the Holocrons, data cards, and lightsabers in the cave.

Grabbing what appeared to be a double-hilted lightsaber, Peter activated it, having a pair of yellow blades appear.

"Whoa~ they turn yellow?" Peter said in amazement.

"What, you haven't seen a yellow lightsaber before?"

"No, since when are they yellow?"

Ahsoka gave him a look. "I had a yellow shoto-lightsaber, but Ultron took it."

"...Why hadn't I noticed that?"

"It does look a bit green sometimes in certain lighting." Barriss commented.

"Lightish green."

"Yeah, yellow."

"Or we can go with what Barriss said."

Ahsoka shook her head with a playful grin. "The temple guards and sentinels have yellow lightsabers, passed down from their predecessors for hundreds of years. Outside of them, it's rare for anyone else to have them."

"Then who is this supposed to be?" Peter asked, holding up the double-sided saber with the two Padawans shrugging.

"Maybe if we can decipher these inscriptions, it'll tell us." Barriss said, trailing her fingers over one such inscription.

"Along with all these other ones." Ahsoka tacked on, lifting up the Holocron where the green lightsaber was. "Whatever the case is, gonna have to borrow this for our trip back to the surface."

"How are we to carry all this back?" The Mirialan Padawan asked.

"That's what Simby is for." Peter said and the symbiote immediately responded by allowing its host to pull a piece of itself off to form a bag to stuff everything they found into it.

With them safe and secure, Peter had the symbiote bag close up but kept the double-bladed lightsaber out to illuminate their way back out.

"You know, forgot to ask this but why are these all here? Feels weird to find data cards and lightsabers in a cavern when there are all those temples on the surface." Peter said, gesturing upwards.

"What, and Holocrons aren't?" Tano said with a raised brow.

"They actually make sense to be in a cave, Ahsoka, haven't I showed you Indiana Jones?"

"Four times now."

"So you should know why a Holocron makes sense and a lightsaber kinda."

"Let's save this debate for later."

It was far easier leaving this underground hidey-hole with the yellow lightsaber illuminating their way back. Though it was awkward for Peter to swim to the surface with the Jedi weapon in one hand and the bag of pilfered artifacts attached to his back.

Breaking the lake's surface, the group swam back to the shore, where they were greeted by Morai hopping to them.

"Had fun while we were away?" Said Barriss.

"She probably did soaking up the sunshine, bathing, and eating some critters."

"Don't make it sound weird."

"I was being a bit real on that, Snips. She is an owl after all… Convor… bird of prey."

Morai hooted at Peter making him gesture his hand at her.

"See? She knows what I'm talking about."

The padawans rolled their eyes in response with Barriss carefully picking up the green and white feathered Convor.

"What should we do with all this?" Ahsoka asks, taking the bag of Holocrons, Data cards and Lightsabers from Peter.

"Let's take this back to the others." Barriss suggested. "We can open one of the Holocrons together and see what we can all learn together with the rest of the Order."

Peter soon gave the Mirialan a cheeky grin. "Or we can check them out beforehand for bragging rights."

"That's sorely tempting," Ahsoka admitted. "But I think we should look at these with everyone else. For them to be so hidden away, they must be extremely important."

"Oh dear, you two really have changed me."

"Huh?" Ahsoka and Peter said simultaneously.

"The moment you said we should wait and see what's inside with the others makes me want to open them now." She shook her head in faux disappointment. "What a tragedy this is. I was a model Jedi Padawan and then you two came into my life. You two are incorrigible."

Ahsoka and Peter responded by kissing her cheeks at the same time.

"You love us for that." The former lovingly said.

"Unfortunately."

"Unfortunately?" Peter pulled her close and began softly speaking into her ear. "Why's that?"

Barriss' cheeks flushed, which became more pronounced when Ahsoka came from behind and hugged her.

"I'd like to know as well." Said the Togruta.

Their lover squirmed in between them. "Because you two corrupted me."

"In the best way possible." Teased Peter, kissing her soon after with Ahsoka turning Barriss' head back to kiss her next.

Separating from the flustered Mirialan, the Togruta smiled and began to walk.

"Come on." Ahsoka said, holding up their bag of goodies. "Let's head back. I wanna see what everyone else has found."

Barriss and Peter nodded and the trio turned back towards the temple from which they had departed from earlier. If they looked towards the sky, they'd see Morai on her way over, no doubt reaching it first.

It didn't take long for them to reach the temple, the sound of other Jedi and Clones being heard in the distance.

The Padawans increased their pace, spotting several Jedi they recognized as well as their own legions amongst them whilst Peter kept at a more casual pace.

The Avenger watched his two girlfriends get ahead of him and as soon as they were a good few yards away, the next step he made caused his head to snap up.

His eyes widened and what he could only call a "screaming" sensation erupted, both from around and within him.

He felt like he was spasming crazily. Like experiencing a seizure. Him being beaten up by Ultron on Jabiim didn't come remotely close to what he felt. It was far more painful than when he first got bitten by that spider and the changes that came hours later.

If one were to look at Peter right now, he appeared to be literally glitching in reality. Shapes and colors appeared around him with his voice distorting to an inaudible level.

It was almost like a static television with how his voice was yet he found himself unable to scream properly.

After what felt like hours, which was in fact only several seconds, everything calmed down.

Brown eyes widened, greatly out of breath, and heart erratic as the sudden pain subsided.

"Whoa." Peter's head jolted back into place, the teen blinking several times. "What was that?"

He patted himself down, trying to make sense of the unusual and rather invasive sensation that he had just undergone.

He could feel Simby being exhausted and confused. Not to mention worried.

The symbiote let out a warbling sound within Peter's mind, making him shake his head.

"Your guess is as good as mine, buddy."

Simby spoke once more and it made its host frown.

"I don't know. Maybe we'll tell the two later. Would feel a bit too much to tell them something like this."

-Scene Cut-

Yoda had his eyes closed, deep in meditation when his ear perked up, the sound of footsteps getting his attention.

Cracking his eyes open, he saw the return of the Jedi Council, causing him to close his eyes again before standing up to his full short height and regarding each member as they entered into this old chamber he had found.

It was inside the largest of the temples on Tython and with how it was built and structured, this was clearly a Je'Daii/Jedi Council chamber of old given its circular design and twelve seats/positions. Some of the chairs miraculously are intact while the rest have deteriorated by this point.

One may wonder if there was some symbolism to this. Pieces remaining intact of their Order over the years, while others do not. Using what can be salvaged while the rest needs to be replaced altogether.

This wasn't just in this chamber but with the temples around the planet once the reports started coming in.

Once all twelve members were in the chamber, they all took positions at the twelve seats/spots of where they would reside if it was the council chamber on Coruscant.

"So," Kenobi began conversationally. "What have we all learned?"

"A lot." Kit Fisto said with a tired grin. "I can't even keep up with everything."

"I would say we might be here a while," Depa wryly said. "But there is still the matter of Ultron to take care of so we can't just up and leave just for a study session on our original homeworld."

Ki-Adi-Mundi grunted, crossing his arms with a shake of his head.

"It would take far too long to sift through all this knowledge." He then looked away from the council. "I don't even know how to process some of it."

"It goes against so much of what we know." Oppo Rancisis stated with a similar grunt.

"It was the old ways." Shaak Ti pointed out.

"It is still part of our Order." T'ra Saa refuted. "Our Order that has lost sight of all this knowledge for a millennium. The same amount of time that we believe the Sith to be extinct."

"Best to know our past so we may hopefully not repeat those mistakes." Plo Koon said, many nodding in agreement.

"But what knowledge should we use?" Mace Windu brought up with a deep frown. "There is much that we can indeed learn here but there is a lot more knowledge that heavily relies on the Dark Side of the Force, encourages the use of it, even. We cannot just start introducing something like that so callously."

"Should we even consider it?" Luminara inquired though she herself appeared uncertain in this query.

"It's not something I believe should be dismissed out of hand." Billaba firmly stated. "These are the teachings of our predecessors, our kin. We can't just lock away the knowledge they have and keep it that way."

"But just releasing it for all to observe can also have adverse effects." Saesee Tiin pointed out. "This situation requires a more delicate hand."

Saa let out a deep hum, slowly moving her head from side to side. "I do believe that we need to handle this in a… balanced fashion. We cannot simply come here and begin setting such harsh boundaries on all that we have found here, that would be unfair, to put it plainly. But we must use a measure of foresight to understand which knowledge needs to be restricted for a limited time until we understand it better."

"That will involve a lot of trial and error." Windu countered. "And I fear that there will be more errors than not."

"Not to mention many of us not being accurate. Being rushed with the ever-present threat of Ultron breathing down our necks." Said Luminara.

There was a moment of silence in the council chamber when the Grandmaster spoke up, addressing the only other member that hadn't spoken since they reconvened together.

"Something to say, you have Master Obi-Wan."

The others all turned to the bearded Jedi who had taken a seat in one of the chairs that were still intact and was deep in thought.

His eyes held a far-off look and he kept stroking his beard, his lips barely moving in a silent conversation he was having with himself.

"Obi-Wan." Windu said aloud, gaining his attention.

"Yes?" He said, seeing everyone was looking at him, registering now that Yoda had spoken to him. "Oh, yes, apologies my friends. Much on my mind."

"We can see that." T'ra Saa said with a small smile. "Would you like to share with us?"

Obi-Wan fell silent for a few more seconds before releasing a sigh.

"There is… much that we have all learned since coming here. Though it has been brief, much of what we have historically has made me reflect on something that the Bendu spoke of. How we haven't changed. Adapted. Using our imagination to expand our knowledge. The Jedi of the past took inspiration from the Sith to create new techniques and refine already known ones and vice versa. While the Jedi stopped this trend, the Sith haven't." Kenobi could see looks of uncertainty and some troubled gazes from the others but he kept on going. "The Jedi and Je'Daii of old were always about maintaining and studying the balance of the Force whilst constantly expanding on their knowledge of it. They understood that simply sitting in one place will not allow them to have a deeper knowledge of the Force. They were instructed to always delve deeper and learn more. To go out into the galaxy and their comfort to truly grasp themselves and the Force."

He stood up and began walking around the room in a circle, much to the bemusement and amusement of several of the Council members.

"Now, it is only natural that they learn of certain practices that should be restricted or outright forbidden. But it is in these forays into the unknown that we were able to discover such abilities as healing and Master Plo's electric judgment. A majority of the old texts even state that lightning is not a Sith ability, just one that has a variant specific to them. Learning about the Force is something that will always come as a double-edged sword. There is much good that we can come to learn from it as there is bad. But we cannot and will not learn about it unless we try. Or simply do rather than do not."

As the Jedi sat or stood there, absorbing his words, Yoda held a particular look in his eyes as he gazed at Obi-Wan.

"Still much more to say, Master Kenobi."

"Much more, I'm afraid." He mirthfully confirmed. "I hope that my voice doesn't bother everyone that much if I keep going."

"No, no, please," T'ra encouraged, finding herself drawn into his thoughts. "Tell us more. I believe you are onto something."

He shot the Netti an appreciative smile before going on.

"This also coincides with our discussion we had with Vision and Wanda when they first came to Coruscant and we spoke to them." Now Obi-Wan appeared troubled as he said this. "I don't say this lightly or out of hand but… from all the history we've learned of. The Rakata, the Schisms, Freedon Nadd, Exar Kun, Revan and Malak, the New Sith Wars… even the formation of the Sith itself… they all came from us. The Rakata were one empire but the Dark Jedi and Sith, especially the Sith as we know them that have plagued the galaxy for thousands of years, all originated from our Order. We created our own worst enemies and… we've only repeated the process with Dooku. It is as Wanda and Vision have said. Everyone creates the thing they dread most. In our strength, we have invited constant challenge that incites conflict and as you are all aware of by now, breeds catastrophe. We created the Sith. In our inactions, misgivings, and poor judgment, the galaxy has been suffering for our mistakes and lack of foresight for thousands of years."

There was a tense silence in the chamber as all digested Obi-Wan's words.

Much as they would like to deny such statements, there was an uncomfortable truth to everything Kenobi had just said.

Of course, they knew there was far more nuance to such an argument than just what he said and Obi-Wan was well aware of it. The issue being was the split of how much can be put on the blame of the individual, how much can be put on the Order, and possibly, how much can even be placed upon the Force itself.

They had all seen different instances in history that a dark threat was clear and present but the Order had done nothing to course correct or intervene to prevent it from arising. Or in some cases, they tried to but some may view their efforts as lacking.

Perhaps they were all to blame.

All of this occurred due to every single individual element contributing to this predicament.

It was all far too complicated to work out in just one sitting. Something Yoda understood far too well at this very moment.

"Change has come, whether we accept it or not." Said the Grandmaster, making the Council turn to him now. "May happen, shifts with our lives. Not just personal. All will be affected."

He moved to stand in the center of the room, taking a moment to give each Council member a quick look in the eyes.

"Change has begun." He said firmly. "Like it, perhaps, unsure of it, more than possibility, but change it is. Change we must decide, for betterment of all."

The Grandmaster then moved to exit the Council Chamber.

"Come, call all we must. Discuss much, we do."

Wordlessly, the Council all complied, filing out of the room and following after their Grandmaster.

All the while, a lone Jedi Knight was having similar thoughts to that of his old Master.

That being how there was so much to learn. To understand. To try to make sense of.

These were the thoughts that constantly swirled about within the mind of Anakin Skywalker.

It was fascinating to learn about the start of the Je'Daii order, on how the foundation was of balance in its most purest form, one might say. The purest form being that of balance between all aspects of the Force, especially that of the Dark Side.

The old Je'Daii Order firmly believed in utilizing both sides of the Force in tandem and actually "punished" those that had strayed too far on either side. If a Je'Daii were to solely dedicate themselves to only one aspect of the Force, they would have been exiled to the moons of Ashla and Bogan to reflect on the light and the dark and find their center once again.

To Anakin, it was so bizarre and alien to hear the encouragement of the pursuit of knowledge from the Dark Side from the predecessors of the Jedi but it made him think back to an Earth phrase he once heard from the Avengers.

Everything Old is New Again.

There was so much that he had learned in a short amount of time that blew his mind, frankly.

One crazy tidbit was the red-skinned humanoids that were Sith Species itself also had members within the Je'Daii Order was something of a shocking revelation to all Jedi on the planet. That the original ancestors that the current Sith had gotten their name from once were Je'Daii, taught in the ways of balance as opposed to their species' natural proclivity for the Dark Side, was something that Anakin knew would greatly change the perspective of many within the Order.

Natural Darksiders being taught in the light, being taught to use all aspects of the Force.

Such a concept was hard to wrap his head around. Then again, he may not have researched well enough before today. He'd pretty much be kicking his own butt for doing so.

With everything he had learned, many questions were now plaguing his mind.

Where the Rakata responsible for the eventuality that was the Sith? He had read up on them on how they invaded Tython, forcing the Je'Daii Order into battle and embracing darker tactics in fighting back against the threat.

Even recalling what Wanda told them of the Kwa, who were the Rakata's predecessors. They learned from these mystic monks -who were the first recorded civilization to use the Force- before violently turning against them as soon as they were able to-to kickstart their galactic campaign.

These Rakata were a likely trigger to the eventuality that was the Sith enemy the Jedi faced today. At least, that's what Anakin believes.

The Zeffo was also a factor to consider. They were like the opposite of the Rakata, a species of Force users naturally inclined to the Light.

That was until arrogance, ignorance, and stagnation took root in their society, they slowly fell to the Dark Side and their own society ripped themselves apart.

Then came all the schisms that had occurred within the Jedi Order.

And for what?

Because of forbidden knowledge and practices?

And in that, they now have had countless atrocities throughout multiple eras all based on a fundamental disagreement on interpretation of the Force.

It was a bit much for the Jedi Knight.

He may not look like it but Anakin does have moments of deep thought rather than just rash action dictating everything he does.

It's just not his strong suit at all. That was always his Master Obi-Wan's forte.

Maybe he should change that. Or he should really but he hasn't found the ample time or even proper reasoning to do so.

Maybe Tython can help him achieve it.

The Bendu did say he'd properly finish his trials here. Though he felt it'll be much more than that.

He can't just rush through all the knowledge here. Skywalker understood that he needed to take his time in absorbing everything he's learned to make a proper conclusion and reaction to it all.

In the midst of his personal exploration in one of the ruins of Tython that he felt a pull towards, Anakin found something particularly strange.

An engraving upon a square rock that simply said "We have lost the Balance".

That was a head-scratcher to be sure as Anakin had repeated that over two dozen times since he read it. He relayed his findings to the Jedi and Avengers and when bringing up that phrase, he was only met with uncertainty and suggestions.

"The balance…" Anakin quietly said to himself.

What could that be referring to?

Was it the Balance in the Force?

Eliminating the Dark Side?

Sure didn't feel that way. The answer was a bit too easy if it was that. If eliminating the Dark Side brought about balance then why did so much of the teachings here on this planet encourage studying the Dark Side?

One of the moons was Bogan, a representation of the Dark Side where those of the ancient Je'Daii order would be sent to if they swayed too far to the Dark and contemplate on the Light.

The teachings of his Order's predecessors firmly believed that both aspects of the Force must be taken into account, studied, advanced, and practiced.

And there were many texts, Holocrons, and data cards that showed how to do so, both in an informal class-type way as it was in the Jedi Order and on more personal notes depending on what he found.

Which led the Chosen One to where he was now, sitting alone amongst ruins that were indistinguishable as to what it was but the purpose perhaps lay in what he found in this site.

Within the hand of Anakin Skywalker was a Jedi Holocron. Or so he thought.

But this wasn't any ordinary Holocron. There was something different about this one as the usual blue glow that Jedi Holocron had was one that shifted between blue, red and purple in a gradient effect.

He had been holding it for a few minutes now after finding it, unsure of what to do with it.

Most, he had seen, brought found Holocrons to others and opened them up, learning what they can from it in group settings.

But he had seen a few by themselves, going over knowledge they found and going it alone for the most part.

Anakin had been with others, mostly his former Master, his Padawan as well as his men of the 501st and Avengers but now he was alone.

And after a few more minutes of silent contemplation, Skywalker used the Force to open the Holocron.

The projection of the Guardian within the device appeared and showed an imposing individual, covered from head to toe in red, gray and black armor. Several spikes jetted out from the shoulder pauldrons. A hood covered up the helmeted face. The rest appeared to be a technological bodysuit. If Anakin could recall, it was a Reaver armor dating back to the Old Republic.

Odd choice of clothing for a Jedi spirit in this Holocron.

"Who are you?" The Spirit spoke, facing the Chosen One.

"Anakin Skywalker of the Jedi. And you?"

"Darth Marr, Dark Lord of the Sith."

Anakin balked upon hearing this, taking a step back from the Holocron.

Ok, not a Jedi.

"A Sith Lord?" He muttered. "Wha-how-why are you in a Jedi Holocron?"

"Because I designed my Holocron as such." Marr answered. "With assistance from Satele Shan, I made this Holocron in the likely event of my death before I was to confront my former master."

There were a thousand questions in his mind but Anakin went with the first one that came to mind. "Your former Master?"

Darth Marr nodded.

"He once led the greatest empire the galaxy had ever seen." The Sith Lord scoffed. "But he was a vile madman, concerned only with the self-destructive belief of immortality. Our Eternal Sith Empire, undone by the machinations of a maniac Sith consumed by his own power. He went by many names for the duration of his life. But Vitiate was what he was most well known as, the leader of the Sith Eternal Empire. A man I once revered and respected that turned to resentment and rage upon realizing just how truly little he cared for the people of our empire."

Anakin took a comical step back at the raging Sith spirit, feeling he just opened up a can of worms he should have touched.

"That's… quite the description you have there." He muttered.

"He is a spiteful bastard. And that's putting it kindly." The Dark Lord venomously said.

"Lovely." Anakin said simply. "Going back to your Holocron…"

"If I recall correctly, several Sith had left their Holocrons here on Tython, as per request once passing on from their mortal coils. I am amongst them. Especially since I wanted my remains buried here. Do wonder if it's still intact after all this time."

"Your body or your tomb?"

"Tomb, obviously. Preserving my body is a simple waste of time and effort." Marr informed him. "And Tython isn't exclusive to the Jedi. In my time, the Sith were welcomed here as well… well, on some cases when there weren't any true hostilities."

That raised more questions than answers for the young Jedi Knight but he found himself tensing up, feeling the intense gaze of the spirit on him.

"The Force is strong with you, Anakin Skywalker. As strong as my old rival and eventual comrade, Satele Shan."

Anakin blinked at this, having heard of the name of the aforementioned Jedi. She was a revered and respected legend of the Jedi Order, having countless battles against the Sith in her era. "That is quite the praise you have there."

"She had earned the respect, unlike some." Marr said dismissively. "Satele was a true warrior and true student of the Force. She understood the Force in a way few ever could and she was the one I respected more than anyone. When I passed in my life, it was she that greeted my spirit on Tython. We continued our partnership to aid in the future of this galaxy. Something her lineage had bestowed unto her for centuries."

"Huh… interesting." Was all Anakin said, feeling the unamused look Marr had beneath his helmet.

"Does history bore you, Anakin Skywalker?"

"No, no, it's just… still trying to wrap my mind around you." Anakin crossed his arms with a frown. "You'd think someone like you would be more well-known in the Jedi Order. A Sith Lord who achieved true enlightenment while still being a Sith."

"It was intentionally done." Marr revealed. "The purpose of this Holocron was made for those who understand the balance that is needed within the Force. The Force is a living being that encompasses all in the universe and it has a plan. When putting aside hostilities between the Jedi and Sith, you can learn a lot about both sides. As you argue, you explore many things before coming to an understanding."

"A balance."

"Among other things. Light and darkness coexist, which means there will always be hope." Marr lectured Skywalker. "We're caught in uncertainty, but whatever comes next carries as much hope as it does despair."

"I can imagine that. Just have to let things flow and accept it. Yet it's just so hard to really grasp it, given what I've been taught all these years."

"Ignorance or stubbornness?"

"Both, unfortunately."

The Sith Lord contemplated for a few seconds before speaking once more.

"The ultimate folly of the Sith, their downfall, has always been attributed to their own foolishness in their code, their pursuit of power and immortality. In body, spirit and will." Marr said with a calm voice. "They failed to realize that those that cling to life are sure to die and those who cling to death will find their will to live. But the Jedi are no better in this regard. Though they have managed to defeat the Sith due to their unity, how often have they survived on the skin of their teeth? Be it perhaps the Will of the Force, others doing what is necessary, or sheer dumb luck, they always came out on top but there was a time when they didn't. After the defeat of Darth Malak at the end of the Jedi Civil War, your Order experienced a purge. The number of Jedi dwindled to less than one hundred, likely even less after they were hunted to near extinction. Why do you think that is?"

Anakin frowned, mulling it over in his head. "I mean, the Republic and Jedi Order had been suffering a string of wars that started with Exar Kun's fall to the Dark Side. But we obviously we recovered, just not in the way it once was."

"Nothing can ever be what it was in the past. The present changes people as we come to our eventual future." Spoke the Sith. "You look towards your past and it stares back. Both selves consider the other a stranger, despite the familiarity. Same can be said when seeing your future. One just can't accept how different they are from such individuals."

The Chosen One remained silent, allowing the Sith Lord's words to sink into him.

While he reflected on Marr's words, the Spirit was observing Anakin in his own way and detected something familiar to him.

"I sense a great Darkness within you, Skywalker." Marr said. "It looms over you, follows your every step, a constant specter that awaits its chance to strike upon you. You know of this, don't you?"

Anakin fidgeted, not liking how easily the Sith Lord deduced the shadow that troubled him.

"Your past is haunting you, as a specter. It shapes and constructs a fear of the future."

"I can't let that happen." Anakin said instinctively and there was a clear air of displeasure emanating from the Sith Spirit upon hearing this.

"Typical Jedi reaction." Darth Marr said disapprovingly. "Where the Sith are impulsive, rash and self-destructive, the Jedi are too rigid, stern and blinded by the light they serve. I have seen Jedi tell others to control their emotions and to be mindful and all yet they themselves go against the direct lesson all force-users must learn. To feel the Force. You cannot tap into the Force through apathy and suppressing your emotions and sensations. You have to unlock the river and let it run to allow the Force to enter into your being and assist you in influencing the world around you. Instead, you consciously or subconsciously build a damn to it in the worst way possible. Robbing yourself of your natural inclinations."

The Sith Lord became more passionate as he spoke.

"You must not reject such feelings but embrace them and learn to control them. Emotions, through discipline, can and have served more as a boon than a detriment to those who have mastered it. I learned of this as did my equal in Grandmaster Satele Shan and many within both our Orders during our era. It was how Darth Vitiate was brought down."

Darth Marr than raised an offered hand to the Jedi Knight.

"I offer you my aid, Anakin Skywalker."

He couldn't believe what he just heard. "You are willing to teach me, a Jedi?"

"You are Jedi, I am Sith but our foundations lie on this planet, brothers in the Force that we are. Many have forgotten but the Sith species were amongst those that the Tho'Yor brought to this world. Though they were Dark Side Adjacent, the Sith that came here were the first to understand the need of Ashla, Bogan and the middle. The Will of the Force. And I can help you do the same."

"Why offer me this? What do you gain from it?" Anakin warily asked.

"I am but a spirit, a recording left behind for others to learn from. In my lifetime as a Sith and in my final days, I had learned my equilibrium and I believe I can give the same to you." Darth Marr's face was hidden behind his mask but Skywalker could feel his eyes boring into him. "You have walked in the Darkness but as a wild, untamed child, filled with rage and grief. What I can give you is the discipline and focus needed to be in the Dark and not get consumed by it. To still retain who you are and not be swept away by the raging tide."

Anakin was silent, contemplating the offer.

He was sooooo gonna get an earful of doing this.

"Do I have to milord ya every time I see you?"

That actually got a snort of amusement from the Sith Lord. "No. Marr will be fine."

Anakin smirked at hearing this. "I can work with that. So, how should we start?"

"You can start by traversing to the moons orbiting this planet. They were -and still are- good locations to train one's connection with the Force. There is also the Chasm that exists on this World."

"The Chasm?" Anakin parroted with a frown.

Marr gestured behind the Jedi. "Over that ridge there, overlooking a cliff is a chasm that possesses no name but is strong in the Dark Side of the Force. It is a place many have ventured to but few ever returned as they were and for those that did carried a heavy burden upon their soul."

Anakin gazed ahead, his vision focusing on the supposed Chasm in the distance.

"If that is where you wish to go, proceed."

Anakin turned to the Sith Spirit in slight surprise. "Didn't you just suggest I got to the moons first?"

"It was just a suggestion." The Sith Spirit pointed out. "The journey you take is your own."

"So that whole teaching bit-"

"That is to assist you in making sense of what you encounter, perspective as well as practices that can help you focus on how to react to what you have learned. I do have certain ideas in mind but what we have right now quite literally started a few seconds ago. I need to understand how you go about certain scenarios to gauge the means by which I can train and educate you." Marr shook his head. "It makes you wonder, does it not? The Jedi Order, in all its supposed wisdom and knowledge, talk down on the aspect of individualism yet they preach about choice and finding your own path to becoming a Jedi Knight."

Anakin raised his hand at that. "Let's not get all philosophical right now. Not any more than we already have, at least. Feels like we'll be having a lot of these discussions later on anyway."

Marr simply nodded. "Fair enough."

The Sith Lord receded back into the Holocron and the device closed, Anakin taking it and pocketing it.

He turned back in the direction that Marr pointed towards, expression morphing into one of stoic focus. Steeling his nerves and exhaling a breath to calm himself, the Chosen One put one foot in front of the other as he made his way toward this mysterious chasm.

The Jedi Knight passed through a small forest before coming across what was undoubtedly the Mysterious Chasm.

Easy to discern given the gaping hole in the ground, the Force emanating so powerfully from it and there being no other chasm in the vicinity.

"Whew." Anakin exhaled, feeling the pressure of the Force exuding into the area.

It was powerful and steeped primarily in the Dark Side.

Taking a moment to look around, Anakin spotted a winding pathway that led down into the chasm. Shaking his head and flicking his arms in preparation, Anakin let out a huff before going down the path.

It didn't take long for him to reach the bottom, standing in the darkened area that was the chasm.

He felt the hairs on the back of his neck standing up the moment he set foot here and he felt it.

The Dark Side of the Force.

The Jedi released a grunt, wincing at the power permeating here.

It was probably just as strong and overwhelming as the pit on Mortis.

And with this sensation came something, or rather, someone he knew he would run into here.

He could hear that overbearing breath and he knew the figure was close by.

"There's no point in hiding, you know." Anakin said aloud, not bothering to look behind him yet. "I knew you were there the moment I stepped foot in this place."

Heavy footsteps followed soon after. The boots scraped across the gravel.

"Rather intriguing place for our reunion."

"Reunion, he says." Anakin mocked, turning to face the imposing figure that has been in his thoughts since Mortis. "It's not really a reunion with you stalking me all this time." He stared at the monster, narrowing his gaze. "You've been haunting me since Mortis. Not just in my nightmares, but in my waking hours. And in that time, I could hear you as a whisper in the wind."

Though he wore a helmet, the lenses were focused on him and Anakin could tell his eyes had locked onto his own.

"Rather obsessed with me, aren't you?" Said Skywalker, tightening his hands into fists. "I can't help but wonder who you'd rival with such a habit."

Back on Coruscant, Sheev Palpatine got a cold shiver down his spine.

The figure in black stared at the Jedi Knight, unclipping his lightsaber and ignited the crimson blade. "You have avoided what is to come for long enough. But that matters little now. The stage has been set."

"What stage? The one where I kick your ass?" Anakin said, switching on his own lightsaber in response.

He saw his opponent give pause, almost appearing to scrutinize him.

"I don't recall you having such a crass mouth."

"Been hanging around people who have been quite influential towards me." Anakin soon went into his preferred battle stance. "Now… who are you?"

He knew this was a Sith entity of some kind, but something about him felt... familiar… more than before. Not in a way he could put into words, but honestly, it was unnerving Anakin.

"And why should I tell you anything?"

"Cause I asked politely." Skywalker snarked, his gaze was piercing. "Or would you rather I beat the answer out of you?"

"I am what others made me." Said the entity. "Many sought to defeat me, escaping me. Yet they have fallen instead. You too shall join their fate. It is… inevitable. But you may refer to me as Darth Vader."

"So you are a Sith Lord." Anakin's eyes narrowed. "Never heard of you."

"Why would you? It is too soon for such knowledge. But you will know soon enough."

And with that, Darth Vader struck first, Anakin throwing up his saber just as the Sith brought down his.

Crimson and blue lightsabers clashed, the red one coming down for a vertical strike by an azure blade blocking it horizontally.

Skywalker's teeth clenched tightly, once again thrown off by the pure physical power Vader possessed, using his own natural strength on top of some enhancement from the Force to withstand the Sith.

"You are weak." Vader's voice was low.

"And you're just an asshole." Anakin shot back, using the Force to amplify his strength as he shoved the red saber back and went on the attack.

"Slow." Vader ducked the swing. "Sloppy." He swayed away from the second and lashed out with one of his own to meet the third. "Sad."

"Stupid, snarky and shut up." Anakin fired back, with a quick burst of speed that allowed him to land a kick to Vader's chest.

The Sith Lord stumbled but remained standing, easily parrying several swings from Anakin and with the last one, swatted away his arm. From the stagger, Anakin was thrusted away, courtesy of Vader's Force Push. Skywalker collided against a wall before falling to the dirt.

"You're not living up to your potential."

Quickly back onto his feet, the Chosen One began using the environment into the fight. Using the Force, he pulled many rocks from his surroundings and flung them at the Sith Lord. Most met their mark, having Vader be pelted from all sides. Others were quickly cleaved to and from. Eventually, Vader had enough and used the Force to repel the rocks.

All this got Skywalker to note some of Vader's movements from afar. Before long, he rushed in for the offensive. And their fight resumed with blue and red lightsabers clashing.

As time went on, Anakin noticed Vader was quite the master of Form V, Djem So. As the fight went on, he realized there were elements of Makashi in his fighting style. With his strength and power, Vader was able to overcome Makashi's prime weakness.

Not to mention, Anakin realized Vader's lightsaber was dual-phase. It would explain why the red blade's length kept changing several times over throughout their fight. A means to greatly surprise a combatant who was getting used to their opponent.

The idea was good, in practice. Not many could master such a trait for their fighting style. And he was greatly frustrated at it, given he was at the receiving end of it.

"Your rage. It befits a Sith more than a Jedi. Give yourself over to the dark."

"LIKE HELL!" Anakin roared, dashing forward to unleash a fury of powerful strikes that made Vader go onto the backfoot.

Red and blue clashed in a flurry of lights and sparks, scraping against the floor several times, leaving scorch marks in their wake.

The pair continued in this exchange, constantly trading momentum of the duel until their blades were locked into a brief pause, both individuals locking eyes, their sabers alighting their faces.

"There's great darkness in you." Vader spoke ominously. "Such anger and fear. The Council knows it as well. It's the reason why they would never accept you and you know they never will. At every turn when you seek their assistance, they push you away like many times before. Eventually, they'll abandon you in your most dire time of need."

Getting annoyed by this chatter, Anakin threw his hand out beneath their lightsabers and slammed into the chest of Vader. He released a Force Push that sent his Sith foe staggering back.

"Just shut up and fight me! Force, you just love hearing the sound of your own voice, don't you?" Skywalker said with irritation.

Darth Vader said nothing, instead adjusting his posture and going on the attack.

He went in with wide, arching swings that Anakin barely blocked or had to outright dodge as he could feel the strength from these attacks.

Unfortunately, he saw one coming to him that forced him to try to block it. But as he anticipated, the power behind this swing sent him flying back despite his lightsaber taking the brunt of the attack.

Tumbling across the ground, Anakin got back up but was forced to dodge out of the way. A split moment later, he saw the glowing Kinetite attack whiz past him and destroyed a good chunk of debris.

"No fair." He couldn't help but say. "I wanna learn how to do that."

"You can if you accept what is to come." Vader goaded. "You must accept that the Jedi will fall, and the Sith will rise."

"That's not gonna happen." Anakin fiercely refuted. "It will never happen."

There was a sense of sadistic, almost painful amusement emanating from the being of Darkness.

"It already has, you just haven't realized it yet."

"And you should realize I'm a stubborn bastard."

"How pointless."

"Trying to make me convert is pointless." Anakin shot back, releasing a Force Push that Vade anticipated, holding up his hand that nullified the attack.

In response, what he didn't expect was Vader throwing his lightsaber, having it whirl through the air like a reddened buzzsaw of death.

It wasn't just one pass, but several. Vader had his lightsaber fly out of his hand and around the battlefield several times. In each instance, Anakin had to evade, parry, or counter the distant blows.

Once it was all enough, Skywalker pumped the Force into his legs, propelling him forward to strike Vader at the side.

As his azure blade came close, it came to an abrupt stop.

It wasn't just the blade that halted, but himself as well.

An ensnaring sensation surrounded Anakin. A massive vice tightened his very being. Before he realized it, once overcoming most of the growing pain he was feeling, he was being lifted up into the air.

The next thing Anakin knew, he was being thrown around. Smacking against any wall, rock, or floor. Anything at all to disorient him while increasing the pain he was experiencing.

He was then slammed down to the floor and the Jedi Knight let out a cough of blood, having felt the iron taste in his mouth appear while having him thrown around.

"The chase could be considered amusing. But not to me." Spoke Vader. "We've reached the end now, you and I."

"Not on your life." Anakin managed out, raising himself up slightly with his shaking arms. "I can do this all day."

"I would consider your efforts admirable if it weren't so foolish and outright delusional."

Vader walked forward, his foot hitting something. He looked down and after a moment of thought, kicked what was in his path over to Anakin.

It was his lightsaber.

"Pick it up."

Skywalker realized he lost his lightsaber during the tussle.

"Pick it up." Vader stressed out more, pointing his lightsaber toward the young man.

The brown-haired Jedi found himself glaring at the Sith Lord, taking his lightsaber and forcing himself to stand up despite the pain his body had and he turned his saber back on.

"Come on then."

It was then did his enemy release a dismissive scoff that made Anakin pause.

"Did you truly think you could defeat me?" Spoke Vader. "You are destined to fail. Destined to fall to the Dark Side and embrace your true path."

"Nothing is evident until proven true." Anakin refuted. "The future is never set in stone."

"It is." Vader countered. "And all there is is darkness. The Light shall be consumed and washed away by the Dark Side."

As time went on with their continued clashes, Anakin was getting more and more frustrated as time went on. Him not being able to best the Sith Lord. It was like he knew every move he'd make. Not just through Force precognition, but as if he thoroughly studied him or worse.

Recalling the Bendu's words. Those of Marrs. He needed to change. Adapt. In order to prevail, he needed to find balance.

In order to do that, he needed to willingly let something in.

There was a shift in the cavern. The light changed and dimmed as something else began to overwhelm the space.

If Vader could properly cock his head, he would certainly do so if it weren't for his suit. A mix of confusion and intrigue was felt by the Sith Lord.

Looking into Skywalker's eyes, Vader could see the blue being tainted by yellow. Faint rings form, glow and bleed within the blue iris before the yellow takes hold.

"There it is. The Dark."

Feeling the change, Anakin shook his head and focused. The Dark Side was there but so was the Force in its entirety.

It was too much. So much was being felt at this time.

He needed a way to vent it all and he had the perfect outlet at this time.

With a roar, Anakin rushed and came on swinging hard, a flurry of azure colliding with red in brilliant flashes of light. The force of the blows was causing Vader to step back again and again. Cracks appeared in the earth with each strike. Parries caused shifts in the air. The means of evasion was easier for Anakin, just as his offensive measures.

The clashes went on with Skywalker prevailing. But this was not the way he needed to win.

If he defeated Vader as he is now, he'd fail.

Building up much within his chest, Skywalker released a powerful Force Scream, having the surroundings crack and crumble around them both.

This caused Vader to rush away and evade the coming debris as there was too much for him to handle. Thus he lept high and away to get better ground.

Anakin did the same, but in a different direction so he may hopefully have some time for himself.

Once more, his lessons were reminded. His thoughts called back to what he needed to find balance.

He really needed to accept both the good and bad experiences in his life.

With as much concentration as he was able to muster, Anakin channeled the Force, the purest form of it and allowed it to touch every single aspect of his mind, body and soul.

He knew it wasn't the same as it was on Mortis but he could feel it was as close as it could get at this time.

Fighting the urge of the Dark Side growing more and more, he had to invite the light back in.

The Sith Lord was getting closer to his target. As this occurred, he sensed something was off. Once near and looking into Skywalker's eyes, Vader could now see the sinister yellow being tainted by blue. Faint rings form, glow and bleed within the yellow iris.

"No." Vader whispered, both in anger and in disbelief.

The Dark Lord went on the offensive again and as soon as he was an inch away from Anakin, a brilliant pulse of light was expunged from the Jedi and he immediately collapsed onto one knee.

Vader, meanwhile, slammed down hard to the ground, the light washing over his body and clearly affecting him with the momentary writhing of his body.

Both combatants momentarily allowed themselves a respite, heavy breathing coming from both sides.

Anakin gazed intently at the Dark Lord, a look of defiance coming over the Jedi's face.

"I'll say this now and won't repeat myself: I'll never join you."

What he got in response was a rather unsettling laugh that did not fit the Sith Lord as he rose back up to his feet. "When have I ever wanted you to join me?"

"What?"

"In our encounters, our battle, your nightmares… Have I offered you the chance to join me?" Vader rhetorically said, shaking his head. "No, no what I am is what is the inevitable future. Your future."

"What?" Anakin said in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

There was a deep exhale from Vader as he locked hidden eyes with Skywalker again.

"You truly haven't realized it yet, haven't you? Or maybe, you already have and you just don't know it. Or perhaps not understand it. We are more connected than you can believe."

"Are we now?" Anakin snidely asked. "Why don't you enlighten me?"

Vader only scoffed beneath his helmet and stared into the Jedi's eyes, almost boring into his soul.

"Search your feelings, Anakin Skywalker. That seed, that sensation that is there, you know what it is. You shall find your answer there."

Much as he wanted to tell this guy to shove it, Anakin found himself acquiescing to his instruction and reached out through the Force, hoping to find the answer to this predicament.

In this, he inadvertently felt himself connect with the presence of Darth Vader and like a tidal wave, Anakin was almost overwhelmed by what he felt.

"What… Who are you… really?"

"You already know the answer to that."

Slowly, a creeping sensation began to seep into Anakin's heart and soul and his eyes began to widen as he felt the connection he had between himself and Vader soon begin to reveal to him the truth.

"No…" Anakin whispered in abject horror. "No, no, no."

"Yes." Vader said, yet there was no sign of victory or vindication.

In fact, he sounded as defeated as Anakin was starting to feel.

"NOOOOOOOOOOO." Anakin bellowed, falling to his knees and hunching over, one hand on the ground and the other on his heart. "This is… this can't be-"

"Inevitable? It is, Anakin Skywalker."

"That's impossible. How is it-"

"Anakin!"

The Chosen One turned his head to see a number of his friends coming in from on high, landing around him protectively.

The group was composed of his Padawan, his old master, Barriss and Aayla along with Spider-man, Captain America, Black Widow, Falcon, Vision, Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch.

"Master." Ahsoka was immediately by his side as was Peter and Obi-wan, the three of them helping him to his feet.

"Hang on, Anakin, I got ya." Peter said, pulling out bacta webbing that he instantly applied to the injuries he had sustained. Barriss joined in this, utilizing her Force healing ability to patch up several other serious injuries before Peter applied more Bacta webbing.

The others, meanwhile, had their attention turned onto Darth Vader, who had been standing there in silence, observing them.

"Who the hell is this asshole?" Pietro asked, narrowing his eyes at the Sith Lord.

"A Sith Lord?" Aayla warily said, igniting her lightsaber at the sight of him.

Darth Vader said nothing, regarding the Avengers with what they could discern to be a measure of bewilderment.

"I do not know of you but this is a private matter. It doesn't concern you."

"It does when it comes to our friend." Steve said with a stern gaze.

"And you may be a Sith Lord but you're outnumbered." Falcon said, pointing his guns at Vader who gazed at him as if trying to figure out just who he was.

"Such odds… I've dealt with worse."

"I am quite confident you haven't dealt with odds such as these." Vision stated, the Mind Stone pulsing momentarily that made Vader turn to him now.

"Make your move, asshole." Quicksilver said, vibrating on the spot, amping up his speed.

There was a tense silence until Anakin moved to stand at the front of the group, despite some trying to stop him from doing so.

"Are you truly me?" Anakin asked, eliciting looks of surprise and shock from the rest.

"Master/Anakin/What?" Came the collective response from his friends as they looked between him and Vader.

"I am." The Darth confirmed, only adding further shock and confusion to all in the Chasm.

"No." Ahsoka said aloud. "You… you can't be him. There's no way in the Force that you're Anakin Skywalker."

"You a clone or something?" Sam asked tensely, still keeping his guns leveled on the Sith Lord. "Wouldn't put it past this place in having a clone version of you."

"I am no Clone. I am the eventuality."

"Oh, so he's a cryptic asshole." Pietro derisively said. "Yeah, that doesn't sound like the Anakin we know."

"You can't possibly be Anakin." Obi-Wan defiantly said, stepping forward to stand by his former Padawan. "Anakin would never fall to the Dark Side."

The moment Obi-wan gained Vader's attention, he felt a massive weight on him. Such anger and rage were too much to bear.

"Ah, Master Kenobi. As foolish and bullheaded as I remember."

"Then you should also know that we're not ones to give up on people so easily." Captain Rogers declared making Vader turn to him.

"If only I knew that."

This only served to sow seeds of confusion amongst the group, particularly the Avengers.

"How can you be Anakin?" Barriss spoke up, albeit hesitantly. "Anakin Skywalker is one of the bravest and noblest Jedi in the Order. He would never succumb to becoming something like you."

The Mirialan flinched at the burning rage the Sith Lord now sent her way with Aayla, Ahsoka and Peter moving to stand protectively in front of her.

"If only you knew." Came Vader's dark response. "Who I was has been long gone."

The atmosphere was tense with the Avengers and Jedi training their sights and weapons on the Sith Lord.

"None of them killed who I used to be… I did." Said Vader, having his lightsaber pointed at Skywalker. "Just like how I'll repeat that again, here and now."

"If you think we're just gonna let you kill Anakin," Steve stepped forward, raising his shield. "Then you're as delusional as you appear."

"You're sorely mistaken that you can defeat me. This is between the two of us. And there is no room for your involvement."

"Really?" Wanda's hands glowed with power. "Would you like to test that theory?"

Her display of power actually made Vader give pause, a sense of momentary hesitation on his end.

"I do not know just who you and your allies are but you stand in the way of destiny."

"We have a tendency of making sure bad stuff doesn't happen." Spider-man said, the lenses of his mask narrowing.

"Such records are bound to fail at some point."

"Then you clearly have forgotten how we get things done."

"If only I knew of it."

The Avengers were again thrown off by Vader's comments. What was that supposed to mean?

"You say you are my future… but that is only if I fall." Anakin stared at Vader. "Nothing is fixed. Nothing is set in stone. But tell me… how-"

"Ahsoka… and Padme…" Vader revealed, his gaze lingering on the Togruta Padawan. "Out of everything… You truly fall because of them. You fail to trust them… protect them… Instead, you let the Council decide their fate. Banishing Ahsoka and not helping Padme. In the end… you killed them."

"There's no way that would happen." Ahsoka passionately exclaimed. "Anakin is the greatest Jedi I've ever met, he'll never fall to the Dark Side."

"It is his destiny."

"We won't let that happen." Obi-Wan Kenobi solemnly declared.

"It is inevitable."

"I think we can call bullshit on that." Black Widow shot back, pulling out her electrified tonfas.

Vader took a moment to gaze at all of them, giving the Avengers the longest looks before he stood upright and deactivated his lightsaber.

He gave one final look at all of them before settling on Anakin who held a look of defiance.

"Enjoy your peace while you can. We will see each other again."

Anakin scoffed. "I'm counting on it."

After a moment, a dark shadow came over the area and without anyone even realizing what had happened, Darth Vader disappeared.

Bewildered by this, Quicksilver zipped around the entire room whilst Sam used his tech to see if he could locate him.

Steve turned to Pietro's sister and the yellow-caped Avenger.

"Vision, Wanda can you-"

"He's gone. Completely. It's as if he was never here." Vision answered straight away, Wanda confirming his statement with a silent, disturbed nod.

"Jesus fuck." Sam said. "What in the hell was that?"

Anakin felt too tired to answer, instead plopping down to the ground with an exhausted sigh. Ahsoka kneeled down next to him, placing a supportive hand on his back which he appreciated. With this occurring, his padawan saw his eyes fully change back to their natural blue.

"Are you alright, Anakin?" Rogers asked straight away and he shook his head.

"Don't know, really." He honestly said. "But… I'm alive if that counts for something."

"How are you feeling?" Peter asked and Anakin 'hmphed' in response.

"Like shit."

There were a few strained chuckles from the others before Skywalker looked at them all.

"How'd you find me?"

"Ahsoka and Obi-Wan." Steve thumbed to them. "They suddenly felt something wrong and they both said your name at the same time. We were close by to them when they ran off."

"We also called in your men." Sam said. "They should be here any-"

"General Skywalker, do you read me?"

The sound of Captain Rex calling in from the comms cut into Wilson's statement, the aviator gesturing in a "there ya go" manner.

Anakin had a pained smile as he was quick to respond.

"I'm fine down here, Rex." He assured his first-in-command. "Thanks for asking."

"Is everything alright down there?"

"I ain't dead." Skywalker drably said. "Think that's what matters right now."

He heard the Clone Captain scoff on his end. "Doesn't really alleviate my concerns, General."

Despite himself, Anakin smiled at what he heard. "Thanks for caring. Just stand by up there. Tell the boys I'm alright."

"Of course, sir." Said the Clone captain before signing out.

After a moment of silence, Aayla spoke up, a question on the mind of all that she voiced.

"What was that back there?" She quietly said with Anakin grunting aloud.

"Facing my reflection. A rather dark one at that."

"Was that really you?" Wanda asked in bewildered concern.

"I don't… no… I really do think it was me."

"How can that be?" Ahsoka nervously said. "That thing… that couldn't have been you. He didn't feel anything like you."

Compilation surrounded and filled Skywalker as he recalled details of a significant mission.

"Thor said the Son did something back on Mortis. I merely thought Vader was a manifestation he created to distract me back then. Believed if I defeated him or the Son back then, he wouldn't return. Clearly, I was wrong."

"So was this the Son's doing?" Vision asked and Anakin frowned.

"I… don't know. Maybe it was or… I really don't know." Said the Chosen One. "All I can say is that I faced him, survived and prevailed."

"Survived," Obi-Wan quietly said. "But did you-"

"Um, everyone." Barriss spoke up abruptly, cutting into the conversation. "I don't mean to be rude but… do you all feel that?"

The group turned to her in confusion as the Mirialan had turned away from them and was facing a darkened part of the cavern where a strange hum was emanating from.

"What is that?" Pietro asked aloud.

"You guys feel it?" Ahsoka said in surprise.

"Well, we can hear that." Steve said, pointing upwards as a means of gesturing to the humming sound echoing in the air now. "What do you think it is?"

Taking a moment to concentrate on both the sound as well the feeling permeating from the Force, the Jedi moved to go further down the Chasm with the Avengers following after them.

Lightsabers flared to life, filling the darkened space with restrictive light. More was added on in a number of ways from the Mind Stone flaring, Wanda's chaotic power brightening and the gifted Celestial power radiating off of Ahsoka's free hand.

Soon enough, something happened.

From the archway, various lights began to appear within the framework and etchings. By each moment, they got brighter and brighter. Before long, the space within the archway began to glow.

A sense of familiarity hit the older Avengers almost immediately. The younger one took a bit longer to make it happen.

"Wait a second… is that-?"

"That's an Infinity Gate!" Quicksilver said in an instant, immediately recognizing the gateway.

"It's just like the one we found at the HYDRA base." Vision said.

"Just intact." Steve whispered.

"I can't believe it." Wilson said with a small laugh. "This… this is our way home! This is-"

He was silenced by a spark that came from the gate and the hum that was coming from the gate amplified tenfold. Blue, white and black wisps began to appear in the archway and soon converged together to create a swirling mass that filled in the gap. Silence befell upon them all, breath being held as none knew what may happen next.

All eyes were on the gate, the endless swirling vortex at its center shining brightly until there was a brief disruption within the portal.

That disruption was two individuals stepping through the gate and in an instant, there was a tense silence with both sides frozen, almost not believing what they were looking at.

Then came the hiss of a helmet and it retracted to reveal a genius, billionaire, philanthropist, and former playboy with a grin that threatened to split his face in two.

The archer next to him could only shake his head, an equally large grin of his own at the sheer luck that they just walked into.

"Well hell, Cap." Tony Stark greeted. "It's about damn time."

AN

And at long last, finally, after close to ONE HUNDRED FUCKING CHAPTERS, something I can't believe, we've reached a moment so many of you and ourselves included have been waiting for.

No need to spell it out since you guys all read the last few sentences of this chapter.

I know how you guys have been patiently waiting for this while also being obvious in your want for this to happen.

Well here we are folks.

One last chapter to close out this arc cause fuck me there is A LOT to cover in the next chapter. Probably will be just as long as this one since there is still much to do.

Meetings to be had, introductions to be made and a lot, and I do mean A LOT of snippy, quippy and joking comments to be made that will serve to confuse, bewilder and slightly annoy the Jedi Order.

Mostly the Council.

And you all know just is gonna be responsible for a majority of these comments.

Also, I realized this, since we've had changes, here's the full list of the twelve Jedi Masters of the Jedi Council for the story. Some from canon have died, given what was done in the story being Eeth Koth and Even Piell.

Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Mace Windu, Plo Koon, Luminara Unduli, Shaak Ti, Oppo Rancisis, Kit Fisto, Depa Billaba, Ki-Adi-Mundi, Saesee Tiin and their newest member T'ra Saa.

With that out of the way, one final thing to mention is MORTAL KOMBAT!

PLAY THAT MUSIC NETHERREALM, IT'S TIME FOR SPINES TO BE RIPPED OUT AND BLOOD TO BE TREATED LIKE GATORADE.

Other than that awesomeness, here's one last treat for you guys.

-Omake-

At the residence of the Naboo senator, a quaint dinner was being held between Padme, Anakin, Ahsoka and Peter. It was rather nice between the two couples with a meal each worked on. Rather fun on the bit of bonding time, which was well worth it on how it tasted in the end.

With their bellies full, not much came to mind on what could finish off the rest of the evening.

They had enjoyed a momentary reprieve of silence.

That was until a certain topic came up, causing Peter to have an idea.

"Hey guys." He spoke up. "Are you up for watching a new show from Earth?"

That got the curiosity of the others, all looking at the Earther.

"Do you have something in mind, Tiger?" Ahsoka asked, her lover nodding.

"Got just the one. I know Pietro and Wanda are showing it to others in the Jedi Order and they haven't mentioned you guys watching it so this is the perfect chance to start."

"I wouldn't mind." Said Anakin. He then looked towards his wife. "And you?"

"Just so long as there's not a sudden Senate meeting, I'm free for the rest of the night."

Anakin soon nodded, turning to Peter. "Then set it up."

At this time, the protocol droid walked into the room. "Mistress Padme, Master Anakin, R2 is presently charging in his quarters. I will be joining him very soon." He said to them. "Will there be any issues or requests with you all this evening?"

"Don't worry, 3PO. We'll be fine."

"Of course. Have a pleasant evening."

Within the living room of Padme's home, the New Yorker was setting up the show for them while the rest sat back on the couches and watched him prepare this galaxy's equivalency to a television set.

"Oh man, believe me guys, you are gonna love this show." Peter excitedly said, holding up the box set of the show.

"Avatar the Last Airbender?" Ahsoka read the title of the show aloud.

"Wait, that show?" Anakin said with a disbelieving chuckle.

"You already know it, Ani?" Padme asked and he shook his head.

"No, but my Master Obi-Wan seems to know it and he's apparently watching it with some of the Avengers who also haven't seen this show. Said it's quite interesting and gives some insight and perspective on how the Force could be pondered and utilized."

"Really?" His Padawan said in clear intrigue now. The show looked a bit cartoonish though it likely was one so for someone like Master Kenobi to state that he is actually learning something from it made it a more appealing show to watch.

There was one thing that bugged the Togruta however. And that was the fact that her boyfriend had this show in the form of a box-set CD collection.

"Wait. How do you have those?" She asked, gesturing to the ATLA collection. "I thought-"

"You ask too many unnecessary questions, Snips." Peter said with a wag of his finger.

"No. I think that is necessary, given-"

Ahsoka was silenced when her boyfriend captured her lips with his own.

He pulled back and sat down next to her, pulling her close as he held up the remote and turned the show on.

"That's one way to shut her up." Anakin said with a snort, his wife finding the sight equally as amusing.

Ahsoka got out of some of her haze before giving the Knight a dry, bland look.

"Hey, now you know how I feel. Padme's done the same. And not like you're complaining, are you?"

His Padawan looked away with her face flushing and despite herself, snuggled into her boyfriend's embrace as the show began.

"Water. Earth. Fire. Air. My grandmother used to tell me stories about the old days: a time of peace when the Avatar kept balance between the Water Tribes, Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation and Air Nomads…"

Suffice to say, the rest of the evening was quite enjoyable for the couples.

Yeah, so now most of their friends and allies are watching ATLA, the greatest animated show of all time.

Will we do extensive Omakes on certain episodes? I will give a Peter Griffin Perhaps response for that.

You'll just have to wait and see.

Take care folks, closing out the arc next chapter and we'll have two arcs left for Season 3.

Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.