Luckily for the operatives, the Republic fleet under Oteg was still inside the sector. The Jedi Master had been anxiously awaiting their return and the debriefing took well over an hour. When it was finally finished, the diminutive Admiral sighed and said, "You have all done very well. Now, go get some rest. We'll be back at the Republic fleet in five days. From there, you will all be requested to go to Tython. The Jedi Council are anxious to hear about what you found aboard the Emperor's station, not to mention what you will undoubtedly have to say, Master Revan."

A full day and a half of the five day return was spent in rest and recovery by the operatives who, rather than going to prepared quarters, just laid out bed rolls over some crates in the cargo hold and passed out. Revan had checked on them several times between his quarters or the mess and the bridge but they were mostly left alone. When they had fully recovered, all four of them went to the mess to eat.

Des sighed in satisfaction as he sat down. Moira chuckled, "You seem to be quite pleased with yourself, Des. Why the preening?"

"I am not preening;" said Des, just a little defensively. "It's just the personal pride and pleasure of another mission well done."

"A mission during which every one of your suspicions were proved to be true;" pointed out Alias. "You must be feeling smug, Vod."

"I am never smug;" insisted the Consular rather loftily.

The others chuckled and needled him good-naturedly as they ate but it didn't bother him. They were all enjoying themselves after their most dangerous mission yet, not to mention their longest.

Master Oteg had proved correct. A representative of the Jedi council met them immediately after they had been shuttled over to the main station and informed them of the council's request before rather hurriedly ushering them to a passenger yacht. Moira was irritated, having not even been able to tell Corso and her crew that she was all right before being rushed to the Jedi homeworld. Dren and Moira were quite interested to see where their two Jedi friends had finished their training.

Looking out the side viewports of the yacht, they both 'oo'd' and 'ahh'd' as the gorgeous scenery. Tython was beautiful, a luscious, green and white world of mountains and forests. As they approached the Jedi complex, their exclamations sounded even more impressed. There was the masters retreat in an area to the north and east, just barely visible beyond the peaks and as they landed, the main Jedi Temple loomed. "Wow!" said Moira, "you Jedi are architectural artists!"

Alias and Des chuckled. "Some of us are, yes. You should see the insides too. There are courtyards with fountains, gardens and, of course, the library;" said Des, sounding almost dreamy when mentioning the library.

Suddenly Moira gave a wicked grin and pulled out a data card. "That reminds me, Des, I haven't taken the opportunity to look at your little library here. Let me see, let me see..."

Revan looked over curiously. "You write, Des? Are you archiving your own stories or recording current events?"

"Not exactly;" said Des, blushing furiously and trying to sound as casual as possible.

His three friends were grinning broadly at his discomfort. Moira shot the ancient master a wink. "When I'm done reading it, maybe I'll loan you the card, Master Revan. I'm sure you'll enjoy it too."

Des went from blushing to pale. "You wouldn't-"

"We're touching down;" called the young Jedi who had collected them from the fleet. "The council is awaiting you."

Moira nodded and replaced her datapad.

They all gathered at the ramp and, when it lowered, filed down. Landing pad they had used was across the complex from the council chamber and Revan took the opportunity to ask Des about numerous different sites. The young Jedi master was only too willing to answer any and all questions, waxing eloquent on the architecture and design of the place as well as any holograms of Jedi of the past - that is to say, Jedi of the past that were still after Revan's time. It would seem that the one-time prisoner was just as interested in history and lore as Nedeser Thul.

As soon as they reached the entrance to the council chamber, the doors opened. Dren and Moira looked at Nedeser and Alias and the latter cleared her throat and stepped back. "We'll follow you two."

Des and Alias nodded and strode in. Behind them went Revan and, side by side, the soldier and the smuggler captain brought up the rear. It seemed that every member of the Jedi Council had returned to Tython to be physically present for the interview with the anomaly that was Revan. When the five visitors came to a stop at the center of the circle, they were met with a very long silence.

Revan looked around with interest, trying to meet the eyes of each member of the council. A rush of memory came to the fore-front of his mind of several different times of appearing before the Jedi Council. There were the times before and during the Mandalorian War. There was during the Jedi Civil War too, just after he had killed Darth Malak, his one time friend and ally. That time, they had, of course, hailed him as a Jedi Hero and Master of the force before quietly ushering him away from the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, giving him and his wife Bastila an apartment away from the temple where he wouldn't be able to influence the Jedi there.

Suddenly, one of the Jedi Masters on the council, a woman of small stature, stood and said, "Welcome home, Master Thul and Jedi Ordo. Welcome to Tython, Master Revan. I am Jedi Grand Master Satele Shan."

Revan's eyes widened and he took a step forward. "Shan!" he murmured before stopping.

Satele smiled and stepped towards him as well. "Yes, Master Revan. I am your descendant and the descendant of Bastila Shan, your wife."

Revan looked her up and down with a smile on his heavily scarred face. "It is an honor to meet you, Grand Master. This temple and the Jedi Order seem to be thriving under this Council's leadership."

"Thriving;" said another Jedi Master, one with a warrior's top knot and a goatee, "is not quite the word I would use. We are all honored to meet the Savior of the Republic and the Prodigal Knight of the Jedi Civil War. Please, Master Revan, tell us your tale, beginning after you disappeared from Coruscant between the death of Malak and the Jedi Purge."

Revan suddenly looked confused. "Jedi Purge? I'm sorry, Master. I don't understand. When did the Jedi Purge take place?"

Satele nodded and replied, "We understand your confusion, Master and we will fill you in but please, do as Master Syo requested and tell us."

Clearing his throat, Revan told his tale. He told of how his memories slowly began to return, giving him great foreboding about some other great threat. He told of his meeting with the Mandalorian warrior Canderous Ordo and other members of his clan and how they found the mask of Mandalore. He recounted finding his way to Sith Space and his capture by the Sith Lords Scourge and Darth Nisa. "They held me captive for a full decade until Meetra Surik rescued me and convinced Lord Scourge to help us destroy the Emperor. Our plan failed, however, when Scourge killed Meetra and the Emperor over powered me. I have been held on the doors of death for three hundred years, being used by the Emperor to make his plans until these four beings rescued me quite impressively." he finally finished, indicating Moira, Dren, Alias and Nedeser.

Silence followed his recitation. Satele seemed to be gazing into empty space before her eyes flicked over to Nedeser Thul. "Barsen'thor, would you sum up the events between Revan's capture and his rescue please?"

Des cleared his throat and bowed, "Of course, Master Satele. After you disappeared, Master Revan, the Sith began to systematically eliminate the Jedi. It wasn't until after that we realized that they did so with a mixture of highly skilled assassination or mass destruction. A triumvirate of Sith Lords deployed an army of assassins or completely obliterated worlds the Jedi gathered on. After this purge, Meetra Surik, the Exile of Malachor, returned to the galaxy in your ship, the Ebon Hawk, I believe it was named. Through a long series of events, Master Surik regained her connection to the force and gathered a few remaining Jedi. After saving the Republic from one of the Triumvirate on Onderon and Taris, she went back to Malachor V and defeat the other two. It wasn't long after that, she allowed your droid Tee-three Em-four to lead her to where you were a captive."

Revan nodded, considering his words. After several minutes, he said allowed, "I will have to meditate on this. In the mean time, I wish to help with the war effort against the Sith Empire."

There was an awkward silence before Master Satele said, "The Republic is not officially at war at this time, Master Revan?"

Several snorts were heard and all I turned to the four Republic heroes. Des looked as serious as ever but Alias was scowling, as were Dren and Moira. The Jedi Guardian cleared his throat and said, "With all do respect, Masters, we cannot allow ourselves to be caught unprepared out of technicalities. After Darth Angrals attack, not to mention the numerous 'unofficial engagements' against them, if we are not yet at war, it is certainly inevitable. We have killed numerous Sith Lords and the Grand Moff Rycus Kilran. I think it's time that the Republic and the Jedi Order drop pretenses and prepare for the inevitable."

Master Kaeden stood and was about to protest sternly when Des cut him off. "With all do respect, Masters, I agree. Inaction will serve no one. I think that it is time for us to drop this charade, if only to show the Empire that we are prepared for when they officially end these pretenses."

Silence followed that declaration and Revan watched with interest. The Masters of the Council were glancing back and forth as one another. Some, including the Grand Master herself, seemed to think the young Jedis' words prudent. Other seemed more skeptical. A new level of respect for his two Jedi rescuers. Not only were they clearly skilled, but the Jedi Council also considered their words quite carefully.

Finally, a Kel Dor Jedi Master spoke. "We will discuss this later. Master Revan, I must ask that you stay on Tython for awhile so that we can continue to speak with you."

At first, Revan looked as though he would protest but, instead, he bowed. "Of course, Master. I will await your pleasure."

Then, to the surprise of all of those in the room, every master stood and bowed towards Revan. Satele Shan said in a reverent voice, "It is a great honor to meet you, Master Revan. Your guide will take you wherever you wish to go in the temple or on the temple grounds."

Recognizing the polite dismissal, Revan smiled and bowed politely.

At first, the four Republic operatives were confused as to whether they should leave as well until the Masters sat down and focused on them. "Now, Master Thul, Jedi Ordo, Captain Denic and Captain Antilles, we would like, in as great a detail as possible a report of your mission."

Revan stood at a balcony overlooking the temple ground. His young guide, a padawan who had not been able to stop gaping at him except for to point out some site or another, had left him an hour before at what would be his quarters. He had changed into a regular set of tan and brown Jedi guard and gone to a balcony not far from the Council Chamber. There, he had stood and submerged himself in the force, looking for whatever insight he could. It was only so helpful, however, as was usual with the force. Until he had made a decision, the force would most likely keep its wisdom.

Four hours after he had left the chamber, the sounds of boots and conversation approached from behind him. "Now, Vod, if you start fan-girling again, I'm going to leave. I can't handle that kind of embarrassment."

Revan smiled but didn't turn. That was the Mandalorian Jedi Alias Ordo. Revan wondered how Canderous would feel knowing that one of his descendants had become a powerful and skill Jedi.

"I am not fan-girling. I don't fan-girl. What is fan-girling, anyway?"

That would be the Barsen'thor Nedeser Thul. The feminine giggle would be Moira Denic.

Finally, Dren Antilles replied, almost directly behind Revan, "Haven't you ever seen how girls, and some boys apparently, act around their heroes or favorite holo-film stars?"

"I think so;" said Des.

Moira giggled again. "He knows. He's had people do it to him several times."

"Right;" said Dren. "That's fan-girling. Can't believe I just had to explain that. Anyhow, what do you think of Tython, Sir?"

Revan turned to face them with a wide smile. "It's beautiful. My guide said that this is the homeworld of the Jedi Order. It's hard to believe."

"It is;" said Moira, stepping up beside him and leaning on the rail, looking out over the forests. They were all silent as they enjoyed the view. Finally, Alias turned to Revan. "What will you do now, Master?"

Revan shrugged. "I have a few ideas. However, I think that I will, for once in my life, adhere to the will of the council - at least for the time being."

Moira winked and said, "You know, rumor has it that there is a secret society who call themselves the Revanites. Apparently, and this is all rumor by the way, they worship you as a force god or something."

That appeared to disturb Revan. "I'll have to look into that. Thank you, Captain."

"My friends call me Moira;" she said absently as she turned back to face the mountains. Suddenly, it was as if her mind was somewhere else.

Des, Alias and Dren all looked at one another. The first said, "In truth, we will be leaving early on the morrow to get back to our ships at the Republic space station. I've a feeling our shuttle will depart at while you are having another discussion with the council so this is also goodbye - for the present at least."

Revan proffered a hand and said, "May the force be with each of you. Master Thul, trust your judgement and do not allow your youth to discourage you nor the trust others place in you to intimidate you. It is well placed."

Des seemed shocked and blushed deeply. Revan turned to Alias. "Your skills are impressive, Jedi Ordo and you make it quite easy to believe that Mandalorian blood runs through your veins. When you go forth to battle, anchor yourself in the force and in the light and you will always find the way."

Alias bowed and murmured something in Mando'a, causing the Jedi Master to smile. "Captain Denic - Moira, remember that doing the right thing does not always mean your play by the government's rules. There are ways to do so without committing to anything more than your own principles."

Moira smiled and surprised the Jedi Master with a pack on the cheek and a, "Thanks for that. It was something I really needed to hear."

Finally, Revan turned to Dren, who looked horribly uncomfortable. "Captain Antilles;" said the Jedi Master gravely, "good luck with your- um- problem."

With that, the master retired. They all turned to Dren, who was slack jawed. "There's no way that he knew. There's no way. Unless one of you told him. Which of you told him? Moira?"

Laughter rang from the balcony, echoing across the temple grounds.

Aboard the Soaring Dream - Docked at Carrick Station

Moira pelted up the ramp and straight into the arms of Corso Riggs. "WOAH, Captain!" said the big man with a chuckle. "Easy! Everything's alright here. Are you doing okay?"

"Much better now;" she said, clinging to him like a lifeline. "We need to talk, Corso."

"I know, Captain. Come on. Let's go have a seat in the lounge and-"

But he was cut off by a loud roar. The Wookiee Bowdarr came thundering down the corridor and scooped up Moira in a fierce hug. "Bowdarr!" she laughed, "I'm okay! Put me down! You don't need to carry me!"

One more pair of feet, those of Risha Dreyan, hurried down the corridor. She laughed and said, "Put her down, Bowy! You don't want to crush her, do you?"

As soon as Moira was on the ground again, Risha was hugging her fiercely as well. Over Risha's shoulder, Moira looked into Corso's eyes.

The farm boy-turned-mercenary smiled and winked at her. They'ed have that talk eventually but at the moment, reunion and celebration were in order and Moira knew that Risha would not allow them to postpone them. "Drinks!" crowed the princess of crime. "We need drinks! And Corso, start the cooking and I'll help you! We need food for a party!"

Corso chuckled and gave a mock salute. "She's been bossing me and Bowy around since you left."

"What?" said Moira in mock-annoyance, "Corso's second in command around here. If anyone's doing any bossing around, it should be him."

"Yeah;" muttered Risha, "like that will ever happen."

Aboard the Meteor - docked at Carrick Station

With a sigh, Dren strode back aboard his ship, rubbing the entry way fondly as he did. Sitting in the main room were Aric Jorgan, his executive officer, and Tano Vik, his demo expert. "Sir;" said Jorgan with a large grin. "welcome back. We're glad you made it."

They shook hands and back slapped. "You're going to have to tell us all about your mission, Sir;" said Tano Vik, eagerly. Dren nodded. "Later, gentlemen, later. There's something I need to take care of first."

"That's alright;" said Vik, "we were about to head out and grab a bite. Oh, and the droids charging at the moment. Otherwise, I'm sure he'd be glad to meet you too. If you need anything, we have our comlinks."

Dren smiled gratefully as they headed towards the ramp. When the boarding hatch hissed shut, Dren took a deep breath and headed towards the medbay. The door, to his surprise, was shut tight. Unsure of what else to do, he knocked on the door. It was several long moments before the door hissed open and there she stood. Unable to help himself, Dren wrapped his arms around and whispered, "I'm so sorry for being such a nerf-brained moron, Elara."

Silence followed until Dren let her go, clasping his hands behind his back. Elara's face would have been comical, covered as it was with relief but still trying to look serious and aloof. "I'm glad to see that you have returned safely, sir."

That's when Dren looked around and his heart sank. She had been packing. She had already been packing. Sighing, Dren said, "I guess you made your choice then, Sergeant."

Elara Dorne was silent, not meeting his eyes. Dren didn't know what to do so he said, "Well then, if you need a referral, I can write you one. I guarantee you'll get any command that you want in the Republic military. Do you need anything else, Lieutenant?"

She was watching him now, still unresponsive. Dren nodded and turned to leave before turning back around and saying, "For the record, Elara, I want you to stay. You're the best damned medic I've ever had, you're efficient and you're, without a doubt, the smartest person aboard, knowing regs in and out and how to get around them when necessary. More to the point, I want you to stay aboard. Elara you... I..."

And he flailed, looking for something to express how much he wanted her in his life. Was it love? He didn't know but what he did know was that he wanted her to stay and they could figure it out. "Yes, Captain?" she asked quietly.

"You have become important to me personally, Elara;" he said. "All professionalism aside, I-" and he took a deep breath; "I have a special place in may heart and my thoughts for you and if you were to leave, I'd be devastated."

He didn't dare to look at her after that. All he could do was ask, "If I'm way off base, please, just let me know."

A small hand took his chin and made him look up. "Captain;" she said, "you have made a strong argument."

Her face was still serious but those eyes were sparkling. "I think I shall stay aboard for awhile but you had better behave yourself more appropriately. I still have that paperwork filled out and, so help me-" but Dren cut her off, kissing her soundly.

After several long moments, he pulled away and said, "I'm sorry, you were saying?"

Elara tried to glare at him but it didn't hold very much heat. Turning serious again, Dren said, "I am sorry, Elara. I got so nervous about everything and acted a fool."

"Yes you did; however, I think that you learned your lesson. Now;" she said peering over his shoulder, "are Jorgan and Vik aboard?"

Dren shook his head.

"Is Em-One Four-Ex on the charger?"

He nodded his head, wondering what in blazes she was getting at.

Elara smiled coyly and smacked the panel behind him, closing the door. "I am so glad you made it back, safe and sound;" she whispered before kissing him deeply again.

Dren held her close to him contentedly. The was was going to start again and it would start again soon. But in the mean time, he would cherish this quiet time. "Captain;" murmured Elara, "have you had a medical examination since you've been back?"

Dren was about to say that he had when he thought better of it, shaking his head instead. Elara smiled and motioned over to the examination bed. "Give me a moment, and I will be there to check you over in a moment, Captain. We need to make sure that your are healthy and whole before another mission comes up."

"I leave myself in your capable hands, Lieutenant;" said Dren, plopping down on the exam bed and crossing his feet, resting his hands behind his head and staring at the white ceiling, waiting as Elara pulled on gloves and a lab coat.

"Right;" she said, her elegant Dromund Kaas accent causing his stomach to clench. "shall we begin, Sir?"