Baylan Skoll's Epic Rise: Unraveling a Force Group That Rivals the Jedi, Even Ahsoka Can't Ignore!

This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 4.

Summary

In Ahsoka, the character Baylan Skoll defies the conventional dark side archetype by employing its powers in an honorable manner, prioritizing peaceful resolutions over engaging in conflicts. Despite no longer adhering to the Jedi Order, Baylan still holds the belief that the galaxy is improved with their presence.

Baylan aspires to construct something innovative and establish a fresh collective of Force wielders who are not constrained by a rigid doctrine like the Jedi. However, it remains uncertain whether he will supplant the Jedi Order.

In the series Ahsoka, Baylan Skoll assumes the role of the antagonist. Yet, as a dark side user, he is determined to create something that serves the greater good and potentially rivals the Jedi. Once a Jedi who fell from grace, Skoll now operates as a mercenary under Nightsister Morgan Elsbeth's command, assisting her in her quest to reintroduce Grand Admiral Thrawn to the known galaxy. Baylan and his apprentice Shin Hati dutifully follow orders, although their own objectives are not entirely aligned with Elsbeth's. In episode 4 of Ahsoka, Baylan acknowledged that Thrawn instigating another conflict was regrettable, but he believed it would provide an opportunity for him to create anew amidst the ensuing devastation.

The future of Baylan in the new galaxy is unknown. At first, he doubted the existence of the Pathway to Peridea, considering it to be a mere tale for young Jedi apprentices. Baylan suspects that an extraordinary source of power awaits, possibly unlike anything ever encountered in the Star Wars universe. Despite his fascination with gaining power, Baylan does not exhibit the usual traits associated with those who embrace the dark side. In fact, the more we delve into Baylan Skoll's character, the more challenging it becomes to perceive him as a villain.

Baylan Is Dark With Honorable Traits

In contrast to others of his kind, Baylan possesses a unique sense of honor when utilizing the dark side. He actively avoids entering into conflict, choosing to engage with his adversaries only when absolutely necessary. Much like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Baylan prioritizes seeking peaceful resolutions through negotiation. However, both the New Republic and Ahsoka have denied him the opportunity to do so, forcing him to accept the "inevitable" bloodshed. Although he is no longer a Jedi, Baylan does not harbor resentment towards the Order; instead, he sees eliminating Ahsoka as a burdensome yet necessary task to achieve his goal.

It could be argued that Baylan even believes the galaxy is better off with the Jedi Order. However, surviving Darth Vader's purge has pushed him away from the path of the Jedi. One notable and surprising characteristic of Baylan is his commitment to keeping his word. Despite manipulating Sabine Wren into surrendering the star map, Baylan ensures her safety by commanding a vengeful Shin to release her from a Force choke. Baylan embodies many benevolent qualities often associated with the Jedi, but witnessing their flaws during the Clone War has intensified his resolve for change.

Baylan Seeks To Build Something New, Not Destroy

While Baylan is fully aware of the devastating consequences that Thrawn's war with the New Republic will bring, he derives no pleasure from it. He sees it as a necessary evil, explaining to Ahsoka that destruction is often a prerequisite for creation. However, Baylan encounters obstacles in the form of established institutions that hinder his mission to cultivate a new generation of Force users who are not bound by rigid doctrines like the Jedi. Despite harboring no animosity towards the Jedi, Baylan lost his faith in the Order long ago when it failed. With no fledgling Republic to restrict his methods, Baylan can now more effectively establish his new group.

Unfortunately, everything Baylan envisions is still vague at this point. Even though he serves as a master to Shin, their training sessions remain unseen, and she is still inexperienced. The urgency to locate Thrawn and stop Ahsoka has left little time to explore Baylan's teachings. However, now that they are safely en route to Peridea, Baylan has an opportunity to showcase the fundamental principles and techniques he employs to manipulate the Force. The knowledge that awaits them there may hold the key to obtaining the power Baylan desperately seeks. This will ultimately guide him in establishing a new order of Force users.

Will Baylan Replace The Jedi?

The Jedi Order, despite its fragile state, still exists and is not going away. Baylan holds a soft spot for the Jedi and envisions a future where his group and Luke's Order can coexist, unlike the Sith or Kylo Ren. Despite harboring resentment towards Anakin Skywalker's betrayal, Baylan desires that any surviving Jedi have the chance to rebuild their lives. Luke's approach is reminiscent of the Jedi from the prequel era, but it does not bother Baylan's group as it remains separate.

Baylan is not a threat to Luke's Jedi Order, and it is possible they may never cross paths. If Baylan discovers what he seeks in the new galaxy, he could establish his own order there. In the current galaxy, only pain and regret remain for the fallen Jedi, but a fresh start in a different location would allow Baylan to freely practice his beliefs. Although the complete extent of Baylan Skoll's plans in Ahsoka has yet to be revealed, he is proving to be a more complex antagonist than most in the history of Star Wars.

Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6pm PM / 9pm ET on Disney+.