Introduction: Ahsoka’s Potential Dark Side Journey

The Clone Wars arc, particularly the Mortis storyline, provides a remarkable backdrop for Ahsoka Tano’s psychological and ethical explorations. In this scenario, what if Ahsoka fell to the dark side of the Force after leaving the Jedi Order of her own volition without any external baiting? This article investigates such a hypothetical event, considering the canon explanations for force alignment, and speculates on the potential consequences and developments in the Star Wars universe.

Theoretical Framework: Canons and Force Alignment

Powerful themes in the Star Wars saga, particularly the struggles and transformations from light to dark, are deeply rooted in the understanding of the Force. According to Star Wars canon, the dark side of the Force provides fleeting promises of power, fulfillment, and control, which often proves futile for the individual seeking these but becomes a destructive path for many.

The Jedi Rejection Paradigm: Lessons from Anakin and Ben Solo

The aftermath of the Clone Wars and the New Jedi Order era bring to light several instances of individuals turning to the dark side due to perceived rejection or denial of their deepest desires and needs. Anakin Skywalker’s fall is marked by his rejection from the Jedi Order, feeling disconnected from the lightsabers of his mother’s blood. His wife, Padmé Amidala, also suffers from a delayed form of this as she is overtaken by her sorrow and disillusionment with the Republic during childbirth, leading to her early death and Anakin’s descent into the dark side.

The Vulnerability of the Dark Side

Ben Solo, the young son of Han Solo and Leia Organa, experiences similar issues: exclusion, rejection, and a desire for love and affirmation. His uncle, Luke Skywalker, distances himself from Ben, leading to much of Ben's betrayal and further descent into the dark side. Even the respected Master Obi-Wan Kenobi's despair in the aftermath of the Battle of Endor further highlights the psychological and emotional strain that can push a Jedi to succumb to the dark path.

The Devil’s Advocacy: Those Who Crave Power

While many leading figures in the dark side are motivated by external manipulation or power-driven desires (such as Darth Sidious or Darth Maul), certain individuals choose the dark side for their own reasons, often as a direct result of denied power or glory. However, Ahsoka does not fall into this category; she remains a character driven by moral and ethical principles, not power.

Possible Outcomes: Ahsoka’s Path to the Dark Side

Consider the reliability of Darth Sidious, Anakin’s mentor, who masterminded his fall. If the same scenario were to occur with Ahsoka, Vader, once a former Jedi like Ahsoka, would serve as another formidable potential mentor to guide her. In the Rebels arc, a clear meeting between Vader and Ahsoka provides an explicit option for her to join and become his Sith apprentice.

The Emperor’s Position

The Emperor, who carefully manages his Sith apprentices, would likely be wary of Vader reuniting with Ahsoka, considering her history and the impact it could have on their relationship and the Order's balance. However, the unique bond between Ahsoka and Anakin could also lead to unpredictable situations. If the Emperor feels that killing Ahsoka would provoke Vader, he might choose to take a more discreet stance, possibly maintaining her in secrecy.

Concluding Thoughts: Reunited and Yet Separated

The fate of Ahsoka in such a scenario would be both bittersweet and complex. If she chose the dark side due to a sense of rejection and despair, she and Vader would indeed be reunited, but such a reunion would likely not be a happy ending for the galaxy. Ahsoka’s story would continue to be entwined with the greater narrative, facing the severe consequences of her actions.

Possible Scenarios

If she turned during the final stages of the Clone Wars, she would face almost certain capture and expulsion from the Order. In the show, this fate reflects a similar scenario, where Ahsoka was framed by another Padawan. Post-war, Ahsoka may join the Inquisitors or join Vader as his apprentice, providing an alternative but valid and emotionally troubled path for both characters.

Ultimately, Ahsoka’s story, when explored through the lens of a potential fall to the dark side, broadens the understanding of individual choices and their impact on the larger narrative of the Star Wars universe.