Hello there, everyone! I'm back! That's right, this is SuperHeroTimeFan coming back to you on FanFiction with a brand-new Chapter for one of my best Stories, Journey of the Knight: Honor Bound for Force Friday 2017! Did you all enjoy my latest Chapter for the Fourth of July? I saw the Reviews, and I am so glad that you did. It feels so great to have come so far and be able to do so much for everyone. I know I'm doing a lot for all of you, but by liking my Stories, you're doing a lot for me too. For that, I thank you all. I would especially like to thank MinuteMan76, MartyrFan, Jacqueline Karst, Logan GC, FusionBase27A, Ezra Wren, Ultimate Advent Story Dude VII, Eubulon Zenith Extreme, Geo Hikari The 2nd, Cycomatrix Eternal, Dash Mistress 48, The REAL Doom Marine 54, Hay Lin x Tsukasa Kadoya, Ross Blum the IV, Rebel Sabine Bridger, HarmonyGirl567, Riku Soncazenosee, Dwayne McDuffie, Bowser3000000, animebella09, Slade The Terminator, High Supreme King Of Awesome, Tines Sensahthe, Ultra Neo Kamen Rider 15, Awesometacular Extravaganza, 17lakect, Spartan of Chaos, Just a Crazy-Man, Mr. FNAF Fan-Gamer, LadyStar10, Neos the Final Builder, ToLegitt2Quit, RebeccaSnow23, Carlos Jacob, Wolfslick, CT7567Rules, Outplace, TheGreatGodzilla, Darth Sicarius, AbbyDobbie, Maximus Potter, Darth Khan, Virgil1989 The Crossover King, and of course, all of the Guest Reviewers, and while I'm at it, not on the gratefulness note, but on a sour note to the cyber-bully around this site, a screw-you to Doom Marine 54. Other than that, thank you to everyone who has supported me. I'm glad to have come so far thanks to your support. Now, before I show you all my new Chapter, please let me address some reviews that you guys left for me. First off, we have Carlos Jacob. I can try to introduce Platinum from DC Super Hero Girls: Intergalactic Games as a bad guy gone good. A call from Earth-16 to the Young Justice and Justice League in the Expanded Universe to tell them how proud they are of them sounds nice. I'll try to do that. Thanks for the idea. You'll have to wait and see what the fate of the ORDER is, especially since Damien Darhk is trying to take over as seen in Tales of the Neo Young Justice. I'll consider training from the Expanded Universe for the Young Justice too, as that sounds like a great idea as well. The Young Justice taking pictures of everywhere they've been to in the Expanded Universe sounds good. I'll consider that. Also, thank you for all of the news updates. Now, for newcomer Travis Middleton. You'll find out what happened to OceanMaster later on, I promise. Sylas will appear, and you will see what he has been up to, I promise that too. I'll think about Vandal Savage and the Light secretly working against Darth Sidious. I plan on having Tony Zucco appear in my Story at some point, so don't worry about that. Darth Maul was able to escape Darth Sidious from Mandalore through the Dark Side of the Force, but to know exactly how, you'll have to wait and see. Palpatine can visit other countries and see other leaders, but I'm not so sure about Trump since he isn't everyone's favorite president. Schools about Jedi and Sith History sounds like a good idea for Earth-16, thanks for suggesting that, as well as people in the Expanded Universe learning about Earth. I'll try to show what James, Sarah, Henri and Moses have been up to, I promise. Thank you for your Reviews. Now, with all questions answered, here's my brand-new Chapter! This one come from an idea by TheGreatGodzilla. Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, please be sure to enjoy!
Chapter 9: Aggressive Negotiations
In memory of those affected by Hurricane Harvey…
There is no such thing as perfect.
Torn apart by War! As the Clone Wars rages across the Galaxy, Senators of both sides try to rally systems to their cause. The Republic and Separatists struggle to expand their government, competing for the favor of those they negotiate with. Following a ceasefire between all sides, the Young Justice head to Cato Neimoidia, where they find the source of the problem. However, once supply lines and Credit Transfers are restored, the ceasefire continues, giving everyone time they need to focus on delegations again.
Ahsoka and the Young Justice walked through the Senate Building, watching as James, Sarah and Henri tried to interview as many Senators as they could get to.
"Nice to have some peace and quiet around here for once," Connor mused as he looked around. "How long do we have before we hear of news from the frontline again?" he asked Ahsoka.
"Sarah asked for twenty-four more hours of ceasefire," Ahsoka said. "And four hours have passed ever since we left Cato Neimoidia," she explained as an Ithorian Senator passed them. "So, we have twenty more hours until we are called back onto the field again."
"It's a good thing everyone listened to her," Kid Flash said. "I'm glad to know everyone listens to people like Sarah."
"Yes, as am I," Lux said as he came over. "Good job, Young Justice."
Ahsoka smiled and walked up to her boyfriend. The two shared a hug with each other before letting go.
"How is everything with King Dendup?" Ahsoka asked.
"Things are going well," Lux replied. "I have been talking to him about beginning new training for our people of Onderon should we come under attack again," he explained. "General Tandin will be put in charge of overseeing their training."
"That's great!" Zatanna exclaimed. "So, when can we expect to go to Onderon and see how that works out?"
"It will take a while," Lux replied. "But rest assured, the Republic will have more soldiers to help defeat the Separatists once we're done."
"Speaking of which," Paula said as she looked over to see Anakin and Padmé coming over. "Here comes the Chancellor."
"So, I'm with Master Yoda, waiting for Ahsoka to start her ceremony, and after the third time I assure him not to worry, I realize two things," Anakin told Padmé, who was chuckling at his story. "I'm the one who's worrying, and I looked like a mess," he said as he let out a chuckle. "I didn't even realize it until Ahsoka pointed it out to me after her ceremony."
"We were together before the ceremony the entire day," Padmé mused. "How did I not even notice?"
"Well, he looked like a girl that day," Ahsoka snarked as the rest of the Young Justice chuckled. "I just didn't know how to break it to him until after I got my new braid extension."
"You're lucky that you're not a Padawan anymore," Anakin snarked back. "I would have taken that piece right back until your next ceremony."
"Whatever you say, Skyguy," Ahsoka said before turning to Padmé. The two bowed respectfully to each other. "Chancellor."
"Ahsoka," Padmé replied. "Thank you, you, the Young Justice, and Sarah, James and Henri, for helping to keep this ceasefire going," she said gratefully. "It will give us more time to negotiate with other delegates."
"No problem, Chancellor," Serra replied. "We were glad to help."
"I am indeed very grateful," Padmé said. "Anyway, I need your help with a negotiation meeting I have planned."
"You've arranged a negotiation already?" Saw asked.
"Yes," Padmé replied. She turned to Ahsoka. "Before you left for Earth, you helped me stop a Bounty Hunter from ruining a planned dinner with the Arthurian Delegates."
"Cato," Ahsoka replied. "Yeah, I remember."
"Yes, well, after I postponed the negotiations, I arranged for a new one during the ceasefire," Padmé explained. "And since there are more of you now, I thought it best to have guards to make sure everything goes as planned this time."
"Whatever it takes to help out, Padmé," Ahsoka said. "But since you're the de facto Chancellor, will you still be representing Naboo and the Senate?"
"I'm afraid I can only do so much with my temporary position," Padmé replied. "Shayla and Mon Mothma have gone to Toydaria to talk with the new king. Bail has gone to Rodia, and Master Sucram Rellik has taken his Padawan, Ko Hoshino, to Tibalt for a training mission while guarding Senator Chuchi."
"So, who's going to represent Naboo while you're Chancellor?" Artemis asked.
"That's… sort of what we wanted to talk to you about," Anakin said. "The Representative of Naboo is waiting for us in Padmé's office."
Ahsoka's eyes widened, as did Lux's and Serra's.
"You don't mean…?" Ahsoka asked as she led the Young Justice towards the Chancellor's Office with Anakin and Padmé.
Everyone arrived at the Chancellor's Office. Inside waiting for them was a Gungan wearing senatorial robes. He turned from the window and waved to everyone as soon as they came in.
"It is." Ahsoka said with exasperation as she placed her hand to her head.
"Hi," Miss Martian said in a friendly tone to the Gungan as she waved back to him. "Ahsoka, who's this?"
"Jar-Jar Binks," Ahsoka explained as Jar-Jar came over. "Representative of Naboo."
"Hold on," Rocket said. "You were comparing Captain Marvel to a guy named Jar-Jar back on Earth."
"How are these two alike?" Kid Flash asked.
"Jar-Jar, I entrust you with helping to ensure that the Arthurian Delegates are satisfied enough to join the Republic," Padmé said to Jar-Jar. "I heard about how well you did on Toydaria, and I am hoping you will do greater with these negotiations."
"Yousa counten on Mesa," Jar-Jar said before looking to Ahsoka. "Ahsoka, Isa true Yousa leaden a team now?"
"Yes, Jar-Jar, it is," Ahsoka replied as she gestured to everyone in the Young Justice. "You already know Serra. From Earth, this is Aqualad, Robin, Kid Flash, Superboy, Miss Martian, Artemis, Zatanna, Rocket and Huntress," she introduced as the members of the Young Justice from Earth nodded as their names were called out. "Also with us is my new Padawan, Katooni, Jaybo Hood, and Senator Lux Bonteri of Onderon."
"Isa nice to be meetin' Yousa," Jar-Jar said to the Young Justice. "Mesa Representative Binks of the Naboo. Me Palos can call Mesa Jar-Jar."
"Nice to meet you too," Kid Flash said before covering up his mouth to speak with Ahsoka. "This guy's not like Billy at all. Well, I mean, the voice is here and there a lot, but I think Jar-Jar's good."
"Yeah," Robin chimed in while seeing what he could find about Gungans on his Hologlove. "He looks harmless."
"Ooh, nice holo," Jar-Jar said as he looked to the Hologlove. "Can I try?"
"Oh, sure." Robin replied, causing Ahsoka to plant her face into her palm.
"You're gonna regret that decision." Ahsoka muttered in a singsong voice.
"Ooh, deesa look wizard," Jar-Jar said as he looked through the files on the Hologlove. He came across a file with the symbols of Artemis, Miss Martian, Zatanna, Ahsoka and Serra on it. "What's this?"
"Wait! Jar-Jar, no!" Robin exclaimed. "That's—"
Before Robin could go on, several times individual pictures of Ahsoka, Artemis, Miss Martian, Serra and Zatanna came up, all posed as if they were in a photo shoot.
Ahsoka, Serra, Artemis, M'gann and Zatanna all looked to each other with confusion as they looked at the pictures Robin took of them. Anakin raised an eyebrow in confusion as he and Padmé exchanged looks with each other as well.
"Why do you have photos of all of us?" Serra asked.
"I thought I was the only one who had a photo shoot with you." Zatanna said.
"It's not what it looks like!" Robin exclaimed nervously as he hid the file away. He turned to Jar-Jar, who simply waved at him. "Cut that out!" He whispered in an annoyed tone.
Ahsoka looked to Robin angrily for having all of those pictures of her and the girls. She was about to speak her mind until she remembered that Anakin was watching as well. She quickly regained her composure and turned back to him and Padmé.
"So, Padmé," Ahsoka said while trying not to blow a fuse. "Representative Binks will be… representing… Naboo for you?" She asked.
"I cannot represent the Senate and Naboo in my position as Chancellor," Padmé said. "He is the logical choice… despite what others may say."
"And you want us to help guard the perimeter again?" Ahsoka asked.
"We have to make sure nothing goes wrong with the negotiations with the Arthurian Delegates again," Padmé said. "Bringing them into the Republic could help to expand our Hyperspace Lanes, not to mention gaining a System that the Separatists have failed to bring into the Confederacy."
"We'll do our best to help, Chancellor," Aqualad said. "We promise not to let you down."
"I know," Padmé said as the door opened. "That is why I have called in additional help."
"Who did you recruit?" Saw asked.
"Me." A familiar female Persian voice answered.
Everyone turned around. Much to their surprise, they saw Syrena standing there as the door closed behind her. Instead of her red armor, she was now wearing her original golden armor with the mask off and above her head.
"Alakshmi!" Robin exclaimed. He was about to take out a Birdarang until Anakin grabbed his hand, stopping him.
"Robin, it's okay," Anakin said with reassurance. "Alakshmi's on our side."
"That's right, Boy Wonder," Alakshmi confirmed as she stepped up. "As Padmé Amidala is the de facto Chancellor of the Republic while Sheev Palpatine is on Earth, I am in charge of the ORDER while Lord Sylas tends to matters on Earth."
"Are you with his side?" Ahsoka asked. "Did the ORDER turn after Sonia's death?"
"I'm one of the people who turned with Sylas," Syrena replied back. "Others haven't, but that story can wait. I've been called in to help, and to show that the ORDER is changing, I have decided to lend a helping hand."
"That's good to hear," Ahsoka said. She held her hand out. "Welcome aboard, Alakshmi."
Alakshmi nodded and held her hand out, shaking Ahsoka's hand. "Pleasure to be working with you." She said.
"Well, now that we've all been reacquainted again, let's get to work," Anakin said. "Barriss is still spending time with Master Luminara, so you'll have to work with who you have."
"We'll do our best, Master." Ahsoka said with confidence.
"Good," Padmé said. "The negotiations will be taking place at my suite. We can explain what needs to be taken care of there," she added on. "Anakin and I will go on ahead. Since you know the way, we'll see you when you get there."
"Okie-Day!" Jar-Jar said.
"Of course." Alakshmi added on while sharing a confused look with Jar-Jar Binks.
Anakin and Padmé both nodded before heading out, followed by Temple Guards and Senate Commandos.
"So, Ahsoka…" Paula said as Alakshmi tried to keep Jar-Jar from touching one of her swords. "Who are these Arthurian Delegates?"
"King Basim and his wife, Lana," Ahsoka answered. "Very tough people to get along with, but we're doing our best."
"That's it?" Robin asked as he and Rocket came over. "No physical descriptions of them or anything?"
"Are they brown, are they blue, do they have one head-tail or two?" Miss Martian asked further on.
"Nice one, Miss M," Kid Flash said. "Almost sounds like something out of my Sphinx Book."
"They're like Master Voolvif, only more lion-like and less wolf-like," Ahsoka answered before looking to Kid Flash after realizing what he said. "You have a Sphinx Book?" She asked, almost feeling jealous.
"Yeah," Kid Flash replied as if it were an obvious fact. "Don't you?" He asked.
Ahsoka sighed. "Come on," she said as she led the Young Justice outside, where the Bioship was waiting for them. "Anyways, the Arthurian Delegates are a difficult lot. You can call them civilized, but they also don't like to eat with utensils."
"Sort of like Wally?" Artemis joked while tapping Robin's Hologlove arm.
"Very funny." Wally snarked.
"I don't know how Wally eats, but they don't slurp, if that's what you're asking," Katooni said. "Think of them like the Knights in your mythology back on Earth."
"Right," Saw added on. "Regal, direct, but hard to amuse."
"How so?" Rocket asked.
"They're very serious about the War, and don't tend to take jokes lightly," Lux explained. "Me and my mother were present at a meeting between them and Lott Dod. Things didn't go as planned when Dod tried to make a joke about their royal guard."
"Hence the reason why Padmé and I tried to set up negotiations with them," Ahsoka went on. "They accepted the fact that it was postponed after we told them about how Cato tried to ruin it, so now, it seems we have a chance at making peace with them and getting them to join the Republic."
"And since the ORDER doesn't want to bring in any Systems, we're just the neutral party," Alakshmi said. "We can help to balance out any problems should they arise."
"It will be nice to be on guard duty for once," Connor said. "Feels like a nice change of pace."
"It gets boring after a while, trust me," Serra said. "But you'll get to witness how it goes firsthand."
"Well, nothing's gone wrong so far," Robin mused. "Let's meet up with Padmé and Anakin and hope it stays that way."
"Considering everything that's happened up until this moment, I doubt it ever stays like that," Ahsoka said as she led everyone onto the Bioship. "I know the quick way to Padmé's suite, so I'll drive."
"Whatever you say." Miss Martian said as everyone got seated inside.
Jar-Jar looked around with wonder. "Ooh, deesa looking very roomy," he said. "I'm-a think I'm going to like this ship more than the others."
"He's been on other ships before?" Robin asked. "Without crashing them?"
"Well, one crashed on a trip to Florrum, but that wasn't his fault," Serra replied before whispering into Robin's ear, "He was banished by Boss Nass for being clumsy."
Aqualad turned to Serra with confusion, as did pretty much everyone else.
"You can get banished… because you're clumsy?" Robin asked.
"What about being banished for being a flirt?" Artemis snarked while glancing at Wally.
"Ha-ha." Kid Flash sarcastically laughed.
"Oh, it's no joke," Ahsoka said. "Trust me, Jar-Jar has done lots of good things, but they're mostly due to his clumsiness."
"Oh, come on," Zatanna said while rolling her eyes. "No one can be that clumsy."
Ahsoka and Jar-Jar looked to each other awkwardly.
"Well…"
Battle of Naboo…
Jar-Jar flopped around, causing a Battle Droid caught in his legs to shoot at more Droids, taking them down.
Skirmish on Rodia…
Battle Droids shot at Jar-Jar while he donned his borrowed Jedi Robes, causing a sea monster to arise and destroy them.
"The Jedi has summoned a monster!" Nute Gunray exclaimed.
Fight against the Pirates on Florrum…
"Kill him, kill him!" A Weequay Pirate exclaimed as he came out of the burning wreckage of a tank. "He's no Representative, he's a plague!"
Dinner on Toydaria…
Jar-Jar took several plates and cups from the Toydarians and Neimoidians, tossing them around to form a tower while trying to keep the Trade Federation from spotting a Supply Ship from leaving the System. Everyone cheered, though Lott Dod stopped his aide from clapping with a glare.
Near-Capture of General Grievous…
Captain Tarpals, with his remaining strength, stabbed General Grievous through the chest, getting Jar-Jar and other Gungans to tranquilize him.
Present…
"Mesa haven my moments." Jar-Jar said as everyone stood in shock at what they were just told.
"Someone literally said you were a plague?" Paula asked.
"Where'd you get that from?" Ahsoka asked.
"Mesa hearing Yousa fighting Darth Maul," Jar-Jar interrupted. "Isa true he come back?"
"You know Darth Maul?" Aqualad asked.
"Maul led Droids in Battle of the Naboo," Jar-Jar explained. "Mesa and Gungans lead his army away for fair fight."
"Qui-Gon saved Jar-Jar, and Jar-Jar owed him a life debt," Serra explained. "After the battle, he became the second Representative for Naboo, considering Chancellor Palpatine was once a Naboo Senator and Padmé revealed herself as the true Senator and all."
"I see…" Miss Martian said before looking up ahead, trying to change the subject. "Is that Padmé's apartment over there?" She asked.
"That's the one," Ahsoka said as she flew down. "I'll land us down."
"You're sure he isn't a Sith Lord?" Robin whispered, causing Serra to whack him in the back of the head.
"We would have sensed that before!" Serra exclaimed.
Jar-Jar sighed, causing Alakshmi to look to him. "Mesa missing Qui-Gon," he said. "Always brave. Never back-en down, even from Maul."
"Well… he gave his life so that you and the rest of Naboo could live on," Alakshmi said, trying her best to comfort the Gungan. She let out her best sympathetic smile and patted Jar-Jar on the shoulder. "Sonia gave her life so that not only the ORDER could live on, but everyone else too."
"Yeah," Miss Martian said, placing her hand on Jar-Jar's shoulder as well. "I'm sure he'd be proud of what you've become."
"Did you seriously just say that?" Saw asked, only to get silenced by M'gann stuffing one of her socks into his mouth off-handedly.
Ahsoka could not help but laugh. She calmly let the Bioship land down next to a green and yellow speeder. As soon as the Bioship landed down, everyone walked out, with Jar-Jar walking right behind Robin and Zatanna.
Inside of the apartment, Anakin and Padmé were talking with Obi-Wan through a holo-transmitter. With him was Supreme Chancellor Palpatine.
"Master, your Excellency, you'll be glad to know that the renewed negotiations with the Arthurian Delegates is almost underway," Anakin said. "With the Young Justice as extra security, this dinner will be flawless."
"Almost what you said about the Twilight," Obi-Wan mused. He placed his hand to his chin. "I have a feeling that Count Dooku will try to send someone to ruin the negotiations, like Cato did last time."
"That is why I have installed a new system made by Admiral Tarkin, one that can detect imposters," Padmé said. "If Cato tries to attack again while posing as one of my handmaidens, we will be the first to know."
"That is a relief," Supreme Chancellor Palpatine said. "I must warn you, though, that the Arthurian Delegates, while understanding, will not tolerate with mistakes on first impressions," he said careful. "However, if the Young Justice is there to help with security, I think it is safe to say that you are in good hands."
"Of course, your Excellency," Padmé said as she and Anakin bowed respectfully. "We will try our best to bring the Arthurian Delegates to the Republic."
"I place my trust in you, Chancellor Amidala," Sheev Palpatine said with a smile. "I know you will make the Republic proud." He said before his holographic transmission ended.
Anakin turned to Obi-Wan. "Have you found out anything more about EmJay's parents?" He asked. "I've looked into the files of the Jedi Temple here, but I haven't found much."
"I did find out a couple of things from the redacted document," Obi-Wan said. "Apparently, the Descendant of the late Meetra Surik had a copy of the file," he explained. "And from the looks of it, the document was the original one."
"Meaning that one of EmJay's parents might be a current Jedi in the Order during this period," Anakin said. "I'll be sure to tell Ahsoka once she arrives."
"Good, but we have to be careful of how we act," Obi-Wan said. "While I am happy to help Mara find her parents, I cannot help but feel that we are lurking in dangerous territory here. Be mindful of how you continue with this investigation. We don't yet know where this may be leading us." He finished up.
"Will do, Master," Anakin said. "May the Force be with you."
Obi-Wan nodded. "Always." He replied before signing off.
At that moment, as soon as the transmission ended, Ahsoka and the Young Justice, with Alakshmi and Jar-Jar, came out of a lift and into the room.
"The outside looks clear, Master," Ahsoka said, causing Anakin and Padmé to turn around to look to the Young Justice. "Sorry we were so late, but Robin wanted to do a check around to see about any possible attack points for anyone wanting to ruin the negotiations."
"It's no trouble," Anakin replied. "As long as you're helping out, that's all that matters."
"Well, everything looks good so far," Alakshmi said. "We can check around some more if you like."
"That's okay. You can rest, but stay on alert," Padmé said. She took a moment of silence before looking to Robin. "Robin, you were trained to the highest level of combat by Batman, weren't you?" She asked.
"Yeah, that's right," Robin acknowledged. "I could teach anyone how to fight with my skill. Just ask some members of our new recruits."
Anakin and Padmé shared a look with each other before turning back to Robin. "Do you think you could train…" the Chosen One asked before nudging his neck towards Jar-Jar. "You know…?"
The Young Justice, realizing what Anakin was talking about, started to scoot or back away. Robin looked to them with confusion before noticing that Anakin was still motioning. He turned his head to see where he was motioning towards until the realization hit him.
"You're kidding, right?" Robin asked. "Train Jar-Jar? From what I've been told, he can hardly hold a blaster right without shooting everyone in the room, even the elephant in the room!"
"Oh…" Anakin said while sending a quick wink to Ahsoka. He winked so fast that no one noticed. "Well, if you're not up to putting your training from Batman to use, I guess we can always ask someone different."
Robin scoffed skeptically. "Doubt it." He muttered.
"I'm pretty sure I would be a better candidate," Ahsoka said. "Or Alakshmi. We're way better than anyone Batman has taken under his wing, after all."
"What?" Robin asked in disbelief. "I really hope you didn't just say that."
"Sylas taught me everything he knew," Alakshmi said. "And considering he's a great student who learned the ways of the Force, I think I know what I'd be doing by tutoring Jar-Jar… since it seems like you don't have what it takes to show the Gungan who deceived the greatest of the Separatists how to fight greater opponents, Dick."
"You know, I don't think he could even train the Team if they lost their powers." Ahsoka mused while sending Anakin and Padmé a grin and a wink.
"Oh, I'll prove you wrong!" Robin remarked before looking to Jar-Jar. "Jar-Jar, come with me to the Landing Dock," he ordered. "If you want to learn how to fight from the best, you'll get it."
"Okie-Day!" Jar-Jar said as he followed after Robin to the Landing Dock.
Ahsoka grinned, as did the rest of the Young Justice. She walked over to Anakin and Padmé, both grinning as well.
"You know, Anakin," Ahsoka started out. "You remind me a lot of Padmé."
"Funny," Padmé said. "You said that I reminded you of Anakin after we took out Cato."
"Well, you two are so much alike that you might as well be married." Miss Martian mused, causing Anakin and Padmé to look at each other and blush.
"Well, you're close…" Anakin said.
"But we won't ruin anything for you." Padmé finished up.
Ahsoka gave a smug look while Miss Martian clasped her hands at chest height. Alakshmi smiled and walked up before M'gann's eyes lit up. Alakshmi took notice of this and quickly redirected her around, causing the rest of the Young Justice to duck before she sent a blast of her Martian Vision into the air.
"Careful there, Miss M," Ahsoka said as she patted M'gann on the shoulder, getting her eyes to stop glowing. "Simmer down."
"Are they really married?" Miss Martian asked as she walked away with Ahsoka and Alakshmi, both looking to each other slyly.
"If I knew, you'd have been the first to know." Ahsoka teased before messing up M'gann's hair. M'gann laughed and have Ahsoka a noogie in response.
On the Landing Dock, Captain Rex kept watch with Jax, Hotshot and Whiplash. They all scoped throughout the area before seeing Jar-Jar come in with Robin.
"Hey there, Robin." Hotshot said.
"'Sup, Hotshot?" Robin asked.
Captain Rex turned to Jar-Jar. "Representative Binks." He said.
"Captain Rex!" Jar-Jar exclaimed happily. "Yousa gonna train me too?"
"Train you?" Rex asked. He turned to Robin. "What did General Kenobi do to make you train someone like him?"
"Not Obi-Wan," Robin said as he tapped his hologlove. "Anakin and Ahsoka. They encouraged me to do it," he explained. "They think that Batman's training isn't good enough for Jar-Jar. I'm going to prove them wrong."
"Training from the Dark Knight with a Gungan who can't even shoot straight?" Captain Rex asked. "Now this I have to see."
"Just watch and learn," Robin said before activating his comlink. "Miss M, call in the Bioship," he said. "I'm about to begin Jar-Jar's training."
Jar-Jar watched as Robin brought several Training Droids from the Bioship. He pressed a button on his hologlove, turning them each into either Shadow Assassins or Death Watch Devil Commandos.
"Okay. You might or might not recognize these guys," Robin said to Jar-Jar as Jax, Hotshot and Whiplash came over to see the training session. "The guys in dark suits are Shadow Assassins from the League of Shadows, and the guys in Mandalorian Armor are from Darth Maul's Shadow Collective. He always fights in unexpected ways, so be ready for anything," he explained. "You have to get through them to get to Maul or the guy who leads the League of Shadows, Ra's al Ghul," he added on. "I programmed these Training Droids to act exactly like the Shadow Assassins and Death Watch Devils."
"Let me see," Hotshot said as he walked up to one of the Death Watch Devils. He tapped its chest before letting out a chuckle and turned around to his brothers. "They're not so tough," he remarked, not noticing the Death Watch Devil lifting its arm up. "They're just like holograms, like in a simulation." He said before suddenly getting knocked to the side.
"Dat a muy strong hologram." Jar-Jar mused.
"Not a simulation," Hotshot groaned as he got up. "We should really get that armor soon. Otherwise, that could really hurt."
"Well, this just got interesting," Rex said before looking to Robin with a smug look on his face. "Good luck."
Robin raised an eyebrow in confusion. After a while, he shook it off. "Right," he said before turning back to Jar-Jar. "Jar-Jar, all you have to do to complete this training is to incapacitate all of these soldiers," he instructed before moving behind the Death Watch Devils and Shadow Assassins. "Pretend I'm Darth Maul," he told Jar-Jar. "If you want me, you'll have to get through the troopers first."
"You're going to let a Gungan like Jar-Jar try to get through murderous troopers to get to someone even more murderous?" Captain Rex asked. "He shouldn't go it alone, then," he said before looking to Jax, Hotshot and Whiplash. "Go through the course with him," he ordered. "Last thing we want is Representative Binks doing a suicide run."
"Right." Hotshot said as he walked towards Jar-Jar.
"Yes, Sir." Jax said as he and Whiplash came over as well.
"Okie-day!" Jar-Jar said as Jax, Hotshot and Whiplash all came up next to him. "Wesa ready."
"You'd better be," Robin said as he looked to Jar-Jar and the Clone Youth Brigade. "Start… now!" He called out, pressing his Hologlove. At that moment, the Death Watch Devils and Shadow Assassins charged towards the four.
Jax ran in and kicked one of the Death Watch Devils before Whiplash leapt and tackled another one to the ground. Hotshot took out his blaster pistol and shot at a Shadow Assassin before another one advanced at him, twirling around a sword. Hotshot, unimpressed with the swordplay, shot the Shadow Assassin backwards.
Jar-Jar yelped and dodged through the blades of the Shadow Assassins and the blasts from the Death Watch Devils. He ducked from several blasts, his arms flailing behind him before getting up, accidentally backslapping a Shadow Assassin and taking its sword.
"Ooh," Jar-Jar said as he twirled around the sword, unintentionally taking down three Death Watch Devils and four Shadow Assassins. "Mesa could get used to this."
"Oh, this can't be good," Robin said as he planted his face into his hand. "Now I see what Rex was talking about."
Rex watched as Jar-Jar ran through the Training Droids, carelessly knocking each of them down, either with his hands or his sword. His eyes widened when he saw that the Gungan was making actual progress, something he had doubts he could do if he were Jar-Jar's training instructor.
"Okay," Captain Rex said in astonishment. "Maybe I will train him after all."
Jax, Whiplash and Hotshot all looked to Jar-Jar as he took down more Shadow Assassins and Death Watch Devils than they had, as did the enemies they were facing.
Robin watched with amazement as Jar-Jar dodged the blasts of a Death Watch Devil before catching another, trying to use it as a shield, but instead using his blaster hand to shoot at other Death Watch Devils and Shadow Assassins surrounding him.
"There's hope for him yet." Robin said as he placed his hand to his chin thoughtfully.
Jar-Jar dropped the Death Watch Devil in his possession and continued to run through. However, he was knocked back by a Death Watch Devil with enhanced gauntlets.
"Okay, time out," Robin said as he pressed his Hologlove, stopping the Droids. As soon as they stopped attacking, he made his way towards Jar-Jar. "Jar-Jar, when it comes to tougher opponents like these, Batman taught me a little trick," he said as he changed a Shadow Assassin into another brutish one. "Use their weight against them. That's the best option when you have no weapon, something I learned the hard way."
"Okie-Day," Jar-Jar said as Jax and Hotshot helped him up. "How Mesa gonna do Dat?"
"Just watch, and you all try it," Robin said before pressing his Hologlove again. At that moment, the brute Death Watch Devil charged at him. "Slip," he started out, going to the side and allowing the brute to falter. "Grab…" he went on, grabbing the Death Watch Devil by the waist, causing him to drop his weapons as Robin lifted him into the air. "And flip!" He finished up, flipping the Death Watch Devil over his back, causing the Training Droid to fall on its head and deactivate. "Now, you try." He said to everyone before reactivating some of the Training Droids.
Jax stepped up first, waiting for a Shadow Assassin to approach him. When the time was right, he stepped to the side, allowing the Death Watch Devil to falter before grabbing him and flipping him over, slamming him onto his head.
Whiplash and Hotshot looked to each other and nodded. They waited for two Death Watch Devils to approach them before doing just what Robin taught them. They stepped to the side to let the Death Watch Devils falter before grabbing them and flipping over onto their heads.
"Not bad," Captain Rex said before looking to Jar-Jar. "Let's see how you do, Representative Binks." He said quietly.
Jar-Jar watched as a Shadow Assassin armed with a sword charged at him. He remembered what Robin said about visualizing Darth Maul for the training, and visualized the Shadow Assassin as him. He stepped to the side as the Assassin fell before grabbing him. "Whoopsie!" He called out as he slammed the Shadow Assassin's head onto the ground.
Robin walked over to Jar-Jar as he shook his head from the fall. "You okay there, Representative?" he asked.
Jar-Jar gargled as he shook his head. "Mesa thinking this will be taken time." He said.
"Yeah, I think so too," Robin said with a chuckle as he helped Jar-Jar up. "Took me a while to learn that move too," he added on. "Let's take a break."
Ahsoka watched the training from Padmé's Apartment Window. She chuckled before Anakin came over. Behind the Master and Apprentice, the rest of the Young Justice were helping Padmé prepare for the dinner with the Arthurian Delegates.
"Robin sure seems to be taking this training with Jar-Jar well," Anakin mused as Ahsoka grinned. "When we asked Rex to do it, he threatened to disband the 501st."
"Well, Dick has a long history with Batman in these kinds of training situations," Ahsoka explained, causing Anakin to turn to her. "Robin trained with Batman to become his perfect partner. Not just to get revenge on his parents' killer, but to be able to use the knowledge he gained from the Dark Knight to teach those who he would later come to train," she started to explain. "Under all of those gadgets and wordplay is someone who wants to bring out the best of everyone, no matter what. He even trusted Wally with his secret identity. He could have chosen anyone else, but he chose Wally because he wanted to connect more with others. He wanted to pass on everything he knew to someone he knew he could trust."
Anakin smiled. "I know the feeling," he said. "You figured me out pretty quickly when you left the Order… temporarily, of course." He added on with a chuckle.
"All I needed was time to find myself, like I said," Ahsoka mused. "And finding new friends helped me to do just that."
Anakin smiled. He walked over to his Apprentice and placed his hand on her shoulder. "You're learning well, Ahsoka," he said. "Some day, you'll be a great Jedi like me."
"And you'll be a great Jedi Master, I bet," Ahsoka replied. "I'm sure we'll both be able to fulfill the destinies that the Force has for us."
Miss Martian looked to Anakin and Ahsoka as she helped arrange the chairs with Serra and Katooni. The Shan and the Padawan of Ahsoka looked to the duo and smiled as well.
"It's nice to see them getting along like that," Miss Martian said. "It's rare that you see any of them so happy."
"Yeah," Katooni said. "I like feeling close to Ahsoka like she does with Anakin."
"It's quite a pleasant sight," Serra added on. "I should know. Master Drallig and I have a good connection like Ahsoka and Anakin do too."
Padmé, who was with Lux checking on additional security detail for the dinner, noticed what was happening. Before she could walk over, Saw came over.
"I've checked with Captain Typho downstairs," Saw said. "We've planted Admiral Tarkin's new sensors at all of the entrances. If a Clawdite tries to get through, they'll be in for some shock and awe."
"Thank you, Saw," Padmé said as she noticed Anakin and Ahsoka walking towards the hallway, her focus mostly on Anakin. "If you have any other matters to update me on, please inform Senator Bonteri."
"There is one, actually," Lux said as he walked up next to Saw. "It's about Jar-Jar."
Padmé, who was trying to get to Anakin to have a talk with her husband, stopped and let out a sigh as she turned around. "What is it?" She asked.
"Well, we know you have your reasons to our your trust in Representative Binks…" Saw started out.
"But you don't think it would be safe for everyone?" Padmé finished up.
"Well, considering his past few… misadventures of flirting with danger," Lux went on. "I think we should reconsider teaching him to fight."
"Jar-Jar got us through the Battle of Naboo, and helped to prevent wars with other Systems," Padmé said. "I trust him. Why can't any of you, for once?" She asked before walking away.
As Padmé was walking away, Alakshmi passed her. She looked to the stand-in Chancellor for a moment with confusion before looking to Saw and Lux.
"Everything alright with Padmé?" Alakshmi asked.
"More or less," Lux said as Jaybo and Zatanna came over. "How about you?"
"I just did a check with Kid Flash and Connor," Alakshmi reported. "The east corridor is clear. All sensors are now in place."
"Thanks," Zatanna said. She paused for a minute before speaking again. "Earlier, you mentioned that most of the ORDER turned good," she recalled. "What happened to the others, like Ryuga, Catwoman, or OceanMaster?"
"Ryuga's still with us, don't worry," Alakshmi said with reassurance. "Catwoman, unfortunately, was killed prior to the Battle of Tython. Others, like OceanMaster, Xever and Zod, have abandoned us. Even Ivo left, but not bank to the Light," she explained. "I suspect he went to work for Maul and the Shadow Collective."
"That would explain the Terror Troopers." Jaybo said.
"They've also removed the chips we've placed in them upon joining the ORDER," Alakshmi went on. "We have no idea where any of them could be at this moment."
"Just a question, Alakshmi," Miss Martian said as she floated towards the conversation. "Was a man named Malcolm Merlyn with the ORDER?"
"Malcolm Merlyn was once with the ORDER," Alakshmi replied. "He joined us a month after our battle in New Zealand," she went on. "Why do you ask?"
"Because he joined Maul while Ahsoka and I were back on Earth," Miss Martian explained. "I think the same may apply to Zod and OceanMaster."
"That could be a possibility," Alakshmi pondered. "Sylas told me about your encounter with Eobard Thawne. There could be a new evil rising within the ranks of the DarkSiders."
Meanwhile, outside, Robin was watching as vehicles flew throughout the city. Night was nearly about to fall onto Coruscant. He waited until one of the vehicles passed him before getting into a stance. He thrust his hands down in front of him before kneeing upwards with his right knee. He sent two jabs forward before performing a side kick. He leapt into the air for his kick before landing on the ground again, swiping his hands down several times as he advanced forward. As soon as he finished his swipes, he thrust his left hand down and cartwheeled forward before spinning into the air. As soon as he landed, he punched his hand into the ground before getting back up again. He let out a smile before suddenly hearing some clapping from behind him.
"Ooh!" Jar-Jar said as Robin turned around to see who was clapping. "Dat what I call good moves." He complimented.
"Uh, thanks," Robin said as he used his cape to wipe away some sweat from his forehead. "I was taught by the best."
"Dat Batman?" Jar-Jar asked. "Ani say he known as Dark Knight."
"Ani?" Robin asked. "You mean Anakin?"
"When Qui-Gon, Senator Amidala and Mesa first come to Tatooine, Anakin was called Ani," Jar-Jar explained. "Muy sad even had to leave his mama, though."
"I know the feeling," Robin said as he and Jar-Jar sat down. "Batman took me in after my parents were killed by Tony Zucco. He's been training me to fight ever since."
"Mesa know how you feel," Jar-Jar said. "When I hear about how Maul kill-en Qui-Gon, and when Maul come-en back, mesa want-en to avenge da hero of da Naboo."
"And that's not easy when no one is willing to take you seriously, is it?" Robin asked, eliciting a nod and a sad groan from Jar-Jar. "Trust me, when it comes to that, the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree."
"You got Dat right." Jar-Jar mused.
Robin sighed. "We doubt ourselves, and sometimes, so do others, but no matter what, it never stops me," he said before looking to Jar-Jar again. "So that means that it shouldn't stop you too."
"Well, I'm-a one to run away a lot," Jar-Jar mused, thinking back to his previous experiences. "Even if Mesa actually fight Bombad like Maul, Yousa betting I run away."
"Yeah, I'd run away too," Robin admitted. "But the difference between running away scared and running away is thick."
"What Yousa mean?" Jar-Jar asked.
"You can't quit until you try, you can't live until you die, and you can't retreat without putting up a fight," Robin said. "Something I learned during my training under Batman. I'm sure it will help you too."
Jar-Jar smiled. "Thanks," he said gratefully. "Yousa gonna have to introduce Batman to me. I could use the training."
"We'll see, Jar-Jar," Robin said with a chuckling. "We'll see."
Meanwhile, Darth Maul was watching the Young Justice guard Padmé's apartment from a distance away. He narrowed his eyes down at them before walking away.
Maul made his way towards the opposite edge of the roof he was on and took out his holo-transmitter. Immediately, Lady Shiva was there, kneeling before the Son of Dathomir.
"How goes your mission, Lady Shiva?" Darth Maul asked.
"It has been successful, Master," Lady Shiva replied. "I am now ready to return with the new reinforcements you have requested."
"Inform Thawne to come to my location at my signal," Maul ordered, activating a tracker within his holo-transmitter. "I will require a pick-up should my mission fail."
"Yes, Lord Maul," Lady Shiva replied. "I live to serve you." She said before ending the transmission.
That night, the Young Justice, as well as Captain Rex and the Clone Youth Brigade kept guard over Padmé's apartment. Anakin and Captain Typho guarded the main entrance while Ahsoka entered as Zatanna put the finishing touches on the dinner table.
"We just finished checking the security around the apartment," Alakshmi said as she and Serra arrived. "No signs of any snipers or bombs within the hundred-mile radius."
"Good," Padmé said. "We can't risk letting this negotiation with the Arthurian Delegates fail."
"I think their Ship is approaching," Saw said as he looked out with his Macrobinoculars into space, seeing a Ship with a symbol of a golden Krayt Dragon Head on the side. "A shuttle's approaching here. One with the royal symbol of the Arthurian Delegates on it."
"That's them," Padmé said. "Right on time."
At that moment, Robin and Jar-Jar came in.
"We saw the shuttle approaching," Robin said. "I'm about to join the others to help with security."
"Mesa ready to represent da Naboo." Jar-Jar said.
"Robin, you're good to go on ahead," Ahsoka said, eliciting a nod from Robin as he left before she turned to Jar-Jar Binks. "Jar-Jar, get ready for when the Arthurian Delegates arrive."
"I'm almost done here," Zatanna said as she looked to some of the prepared food. "Yelsrap egas yramesor dna emyht!" she incanted, adding seasoning to some of the chicken before looking to some of the unfolded napkins and partially-washed plates.
"Hurry!" Padmé said with some anxiousness. "They're coming."
"Hey, Ahsoka," Zatanna said. "Remember Beauty and the Beast?"
"Love it, but now's not the time…"
"Rennid ruoy stneserp ylduorp moor gninid eht sa riahc a pu llup su tell xaler ot uoy etivni ew won dna thginot uoy emoclew ew taht erusaelp tsetaerg dna edirp tsepeed htiw si ti ellesiomedam erèhc am!" Zatanna incanted, getting Ahsoka to smirk, just as the dishes and napkins arranged themselves nicely at each chair position at the table.
"~Be our Guest, Be our Guest~" Ahsoka sang, much to Zatanna's amusement.
"You never told me you could sing." Zatanna said.
"Ask Elsa," Ahsoka said. "We did a duet with each other last Christmas."
"Shh!" Anakin whispered. "Here they come!"
At that moment, the doors opened, and two alien humanoids with lion-like features donned in royal robes came through the door. With them were two Senate Commandos, guarding the two Arthurian Delegates as they came into the room.
"King Basim, Queen Lana…" Padmé said as she, Jar-Jar, Anakin and Ahsoka bowed, in which the Arthurian Royals bowed back respectfully. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with us tonight."
"It is our pleasure, Chancellor Amidala," King Basim said. He looked over to the table and smiled. "But you needn't have done this for us. While we are flattered, you seem to have gone out of your way to impress us."
"Is it too much?" Padmé asked, feeling a littler worried. "Because if you want, then I can—"
"You have done just fine, my dear," Queen Lana said. "We are merely complimenting you for your initiative, that is all."
"Oh," Padmé said, blushing with a little embarrassment. "Well… thank you, your Highness."
"A former Queen and a humble Chancellor," King Basim said with interest. "There may be hope for us to join the Republic yet."
"You were a Queen once?" Miss Martian asked with an eyebrow raised.
"I served Naboo for two years as Queen before the Clone Wars started." Padmé explained.
"That was when I met her," Anakin added on, getting Ahsoka to grin before he added on with, "Through a false identity, that is."
"We are very familiar with your work as Queen, Chancellor Amidala," King Basim said. "Now, let us discuss the business at hand."
"Agreed," Padmé said with a nod. "Please, have a seat. You must be hungry after your long journey here."
"And we have worked hard to prepare the food," Zatanna added on. "Will you be our guest?"
"That's enough." Ahsoka whispered.
"Very well," King Basim said. He looked to Padmé and smiled once again. "I'm beginning to see why everyone is so fond of the Young Justice now."
"Yes," Padmé replied with a chuckle. "They do seem to have that certain flare with people, don't they?" she asked as she, King Basim and Queen Lana went to the table. Jar-Jar walked over towards them as well. "Now, as you know, while I am the stand-in Chancellor, I cannot represent Naboo," she explained. "Representative Binks will be representing the Planet of Naboo in my place."
"Good, good," King Basim said as he shook hands with Jar-Jar. "I've heard about your many adventures taking on the Separatists and other criminals. It would be an honor for us to be acquainted with each other."
"Mesa having a good feeling about this." Jar-Jar said.
Outside, Rocket flew around with Artemis and Paula, both using their jetpacks as the three patrolled the east side. However, unknown to them, Darth Maul was lurking in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to make his move. His eyes glanced to the side as a Senate Commando came out.
"How are we looking?" the Senate Commando asked as Raquel looked down.
"We're good so far," Rocket replied. "Nothing out of the ordinary."
"You will take over from here." Darth Maul said as he waved his hand across his face.
"I will take over from here." The Senate Commando repeated.
"Go to the South Corridor and await further orders." Darth Maul went on.
"Go to the South Corridor," the Senate Commando reported once again. "And await further orders from General Skywalker."
"If you say so," Artemis said as she took off. "Come on."
Rocket and Paula both nodded as they followed after Artemis.
Maul quietly ran towards the Senate Commando. The Senate Commando looked around, thinking he heard a noise. However, when he investigated the area, he saw nothing. The Senate Commando shrugged this off and went back on patrol, unaware that Darth Maul was now right behind him. The Leader of the Shadow Collective strangled the Senate Commando quietly with his Double-Bladed Lightsaber hilt, silently killing him.
"What was that?" Saw asked as he was on lookout with Rex and Connor.
"Sounds like it came from over there," Connor said as he narrowed his eyes in at the position where Maul was. "I know Aggamo went there to help with the patrol duty."
"Let's check it out." Rex said as he led Connor and Saw to where the sound came from.
Aggamo came out, looking around for any sound of trouble. He looked to Rex, Connor and Saw arrive and sent them a salute, in which they saluted back.
"Looks like everything's normal," Saw said. "Let's get back to work. We need to make sure nothing disrupts the negotiations."
As soon as Rex, Saw and Connor left, the Senate Commando looked around before heading back into the apartment. He dialed on the control pad, bringing him up to where the meeting with the Arthurian Delegates was taking place.
As Rex, Connor and Saw were heading back, they heard something fall to the ground.
"That's not normal." Rex said as he walked over to see what fell.
Connor walked with Saw and removed a crate. Much to their horror, the body of Aggamo fell down to the ground, now pale and with an imprint on his neck from when he was strangled.
"Aggamo!" Saw exclaimed.
"Sound the alarm!" Rex called out over his comlink. "We have an intruder!"
Inside of the Apartment, King Basim and Queen Lana were eating at Miss Martian and Zatanna's fresh-cooked food.
"Do you like the dinner?" Padmé asked. "It's the first time we're serving a meal from Earth in any negotiation."
"We like it," King Basim said as he ate a turkey leg. "What do you call this?" he asked as he looked to a bone shaped like a horn.
"Wishbone," Ahsoka explained. "I learned about it on Thanksgiving. You and someone else snap it in half," she went on. "The person holding the longer piece is said to have good fortune or a wish they make granted. If the bone gets cracked evenly in half, both people would have their wishes come true."
"Sounds like a delightful challenge," King Basim said before looking to Jar-Jar and Padmé. "Which one of you would like to test their luck?" he asked.
"I have one too," Queen Lana said, showing her wishbone. "Chancellor Amidala, would you mind?"
"Of course," Padmé said as she reached out to Queen Lana's wishbone. She turned to Jar-Jar and King Basim. "You two don't mind trying to split it, do you?"
"Mesa gonna try my best." Jar-Jar said.
"On the count of three…" Ahsoka said, showing a fist and preparing to count to three.
Padmé, Queen Lana, Jar-Jar and King Basim all nodded. Ahsoka put up one finger, then another, and finally, the third. At that moment, the wishbones snapped.
Padmé looked to her half of the wishbone, as did Queen Lana. The Arthurian Queen's piece was almost the same size as Padmé's, only bigger, much to Padmé' amusement.
"Looks like luck is on your side." Padmé mused.
"As is the wish I made," Queen Lana said. "You put up quite a challenge."
King Basim and Jar-Jar both looked to their pieces. Anakin's eyebrow lifted, seeing that they both had the same sized wishbone.
"Fate must have good plans for the both of us," King Basim said. "I salute you, Representative Binks."
"Mesa never lucky," Jar-Jar said. "But I always like to wish."
All of a sudden, the alarm sounded off. Serra, Miss Martian and Katooni looked around while Anakin, Ahsoka and Zatanna readied their weapons.
"What's going on?" Alakshmi asked as she patrolled the hallways. She looked to Aggamo pass by and grabbed his shoulder. "Aggamo, who's attacking?"
The Senate Commando turned to Alakshmi and stayed silent. Alakshmi narrowed her eyes at him before letting out a gasp.
"Maul!" Alakshmi exclaimed, reaching for her sword.
The Senate Commando elbowed Alakshmi away, but she regained herself and took out her sword, slashing his helmet off. Right as she was, Maul was the one impersonating as Aggamo.
"Hello, Alakshmi," Maul said as Alakshmi quickly took out her other sword. "Thawne told me you were the stand-in head of the ORDER… and I know that Sylas is on Earth right now."
"You may not have been one Tython, but you will pay for Sonia's death!" Alakshmi exclaimed as she ran towards Maul.
"We shall see." Maul said. The DarkSider leader unsheathed his lightsaber and twirled it around as he walked towards Syrena.
Alakshmi tried to slam her sword at Maul, but he held his lightsaber down low in a Soresu stance before pushing her back. Syrena growled before using her left sword to break off from below, breaking Maul's defense. Alakshmi blocked two more attacks from Maul before knocking his lightsaber into the air. She bent down, grabbed his legs and flipped her left leg into the air, kicking him away and knocking him off-guard.
Alakshmi panted before turning on her comlink. "Everyone, this is Alakshmi," she reported. "The intruder is Maul! Close in on my coordinates. Hallway 4-HK!"
All of a sudden, Alakshmi felt something grab her neck. She started to choke as she dropped her swords, seeing Maul remove his armor and walk towards her with his hand held out, almost clenched into a fist.
"You are already too late," Darth Maul said before seeing the Young Justice arrive from both behind and in front of him. He tossed Alakshmi towards Kid Flash, Paula and Artemis before using the Force to make the ceiling behind him give away, trapping Rex, Connor, Saw and the rest of the Young Justice. "All too easy." He mused before he took out his second lightsaber. He levitated both into the air and activated them, cutting a hole through the ceiling above him.
"Maul's here," Katooni said as she made her way towards Ahsoka, Anakin and Zatanna. "That's what Alakshmi just said before she was cut off."
"This is getting out of hand," Padmé said before turning to King Basim and Queen Lana. "You two had better take cover," she advised. "Maul will be coming for you, and—"
All of a sudden, two red lightsaber blades came out from the floor. Everyone looked down before a hole was carved. The two red blades flew into the air as Maul leapt up somersaulting into the air before landing on the ground, catching his two lightsaber hilt perfectly before activating them.
"Stay back, Maul," Anakin ordered. "You're not getting away this time."
"Always jinxing yourself, Skywalker," Maul spat as he and the Chosen One circled each other with their lightsabers aimed dangerously. "Remember that I have Thawne on my side. He can kill you easily."
"Stay away from the Arthurian Delegates!" Ahsoka ordered. "The Senate will decide your fate."
"And as the Senate myself, I will see to it that you are executed for your action against the Republic and the Separatists!" Padmé added on, taking out her blaster.
"The Arthurian Delegates are of little concern to me," Maul said. "I will deal with them later, yes, but my target as of now is more of a… personal matter."
"Stand down, Sith." King Basim ordered as he prepared to take out his sword.
"When I was told about how the Senator of Naboo, the same person I was assigned to take in to Darth Sidious many years ago, had become Chancellor, I had found a perfect opportunity to take my revenge… and add leverage against the false Sith," Darth Maul started to explain. He held out his hand, dragging Padmé towards him. She shrieked a little as he placed one of his lightsabers at her neck and another at her back. "I may have killed Qui-Gon Jinn many years ago, but my loss of the Battle of Naboo was still your fault!" he snarled. "Now, not only will I have my vengeance, but I will have the key to winning the War… in favor of the Shadow Collective."
"Let her go!" Anakin yelled.
"One more step, and I shall kill her!" Darth Maul yelled.
Anakin stopped advancing, despite Padmé nervously shaking her head. He looked to Ahsoka, Katooni, Miss Martian and Serra, as well as Zatanna, who had her sword out.
"We're not really letting him take Padmé, are we?" Katooni asked.
"You will let me leave with her nonetheless," Darth Maul snarled. "Now, Chancellor, we shall discuss a new treaty… one which involves me controlling the Senate."
"Yousa gonna let her go!" Jar-Jar exclaimed as he grabbed the Xiphon from Ahsoka's belt.
"Jar-Jar!" Ahsoka exclaimed.
Darth Maul raised an eyebrow incredulously. "Who… who are you?" he asked.
"Mesa Jar-Jar Binks, General of da Battle of Naboo, and Representative," Jar-Jar said. "Mesa the one who lead the army against Yousa Droids."
"What?" Darth Maul asked in an almost high-pitched tone. "You mean… the reason Droid reinforcements failed at the Battle of Naboo… was because you were leading… an army to draw them away from Theed?"
"Pretty much it," Anakin confirmed. "Yeah."
"Sidious would have never forgiven me for my failure on Naboo, and he would never have let me live had he known a Gungan was one of the reasons behind my failure!" Darth Maul exclaimed angrily. He tossed Padmé aside, where King Basim caught her safely. He snarled and activated his lightsaber. "He may never forgive me after what I've done, but I can still wipe out the plague who ruined my glory on that day!"
"Yousa gonna pay for da murder of Qui-Gon!" Jar-Jar exclaimed while searching for the activation matrix of the Xiphon. He eventually found it and let the Xiphon's black blade spring to life.
"I will make this quick for you, Gungan," Darth Maul said. "Without the Force, you will die at my blade."
"Wesa gonna see about that!" Jar-Jar exclaimed. He let out a yell as he ran towards Maul, who readied for his battle against the Gungan who cost him his victory at the Battle of Naboo.
Alakshmi burst out of the floor, followed by the rest of the Young Justice.
"Where's Maul?" Lux asked as he came in with several Senate Commandos.
At that moment, Jar-Jar slammed the Xiphon down on Maul's red blade. Darth Maul growled as he kept his stance, using Vaapad to fuel his strength before pushing Jar-Jar off. Jar-Jar surprisingly kept his stance and managed not to fall back. He ran at Maul again and slashed at him from below before performing a high strike. Once again, Darth Maul held his blade up in defense, but this time, Jar-Jar used this as a distraction to kick Maul away into one of the chairs.
"You just don't know when to quit, do you, Gungan?" Darth Maul asked.
"I don't even know the meaning of the word!" Jar-Jar spat before tossing a vase at Maul.
Darth Maul sliced apart the vase before Jar-Jar charged at him again. Maul grinned and used the Force to grab a blaster from Saw before shooting at Jar-Jar with it. However, Jar-Jar leapt out of the way of each blast, even deflecting some of the blasts with the Xiphon. Maul stabbed forward with his lightsaber, but Jar-Jar parried it to the side before using both of the blades to destroy the stolen blaster and scar Maul in the left leg.
"I don't think I've ever seen Jar-Jar last this long!" Anakin exclaimed with amazement.
"Yeah," Robin said. "He said he would usually run away before the fight would even begin."
"What's giving him this strength?" Anakin asked.
"Jar-Jar doesn't have the Force…" Ahsoka started out, causing everyone to turn to her. "But he's driven by everyone who's helped him to come so far… those who helped him to be the man he is now."
Maul released himself from Jar-Jar's grip and tried to slash at him with Ataru. Jar-Jar backflipped away and kicked Maul in the face, sending him staggering backwards a little.
"I'm not done yet!" Jar-Jar remarked as he ran at Maul again.
"Jar-Jar's adventure might have begun with Qui-Gon Jinn… but it also started with Darth Maul," Ahsoka continued to explain. "From Naboo to Tatooine and back, both of them played a part in Jar-Jar's development. He may not have the strength of a Jedi, or Superman…" she went on. "But he's got the heart of a Jedi. While Qui-Gon helped give Jar-Jar some of the courage he needed to fight at first… but we all played a part in how he became who he is today."
Jar-Jar backed away from Maul as he struck at him with Vaapad. However, he managed to block every attack, ducking from high strikes and jumping from low strikes.
"You will fall at my blade!" Darth Maul snarled as he continued to lash out at Jar-Jar Binks.
Jar-Jar got back up and slashed at Maul, only for him to slash the blade away. The Gungan managed to regain himself as Maul brought his blade down on him, only for him to place the Xiphon up high, almost sending both blades at Maul's neck and beheading him. Darth Maul snarled in annoyance and pushed Jar-Jar away. King Basim and Queen Lana gaped before Maul attempted an overhead slash at Jar-Jar, who ducked as Maul spun around before crawling away as his blade was stuck in the wall.
"I'm not gonna die today." Jar-Jar mused as he got back up again and reactivated the Xiphon.
Maul growled and deactivated his lightsaber before activating it again. Both he and Jar-Jar ran at each other, slamming their blades and locking lightsabers with one another. The two tried to gain momentum over each other, eventually backing away and circling their blades around. Everyone watched as Jar-Jar and Maul circled their blades around, trying to disarm each other. Eventually, Maul was able to swing the Xiphon out of Jar-Jar's hands, landing next to Padmé.
Jar-Jar gasped before seeing Maul slash at him. He caught his arms and poked his eyes, causing Maul to scream before kicking him back.
Darth Maul regained himself and chuckled. "I'll admit that hurt," he mused. "You're a persistent Bombad Gungan."
"My name is Jar-Jar Binks!" Jar-Jar spat. "And I'm ready for you!"
"Then in deference to my earlier remark… I will make this quick." Maul said as he turned his eyes back to Jar-Jar, the harsh shade of yellow trying to strike intimidation into his eyes.
"Get out of there, Jar-Jar…" Miss Martian said as she reached for her crossguard lightsaber.
"Wait," Robin said. "Why isn't he moving?"
"He's gonna get himself killed…" Padmé said with worriment.
"Not again." Serra said.
"No, he's… waiting," Robin said. "He's going to try and use a trick I taught him earlier. I can tell by the stance."
Maul ran at Jar-Jar, who continued to keep his stance. At the last minute, he stepped aside.
"Slip!" Jar-Jar exclaimed before wailing a little as the red blade almost hit him.
Maul, who was not expecting Jar-Jar to make such a move, faltered and dropped his lightsaber.
"Grab!" Robin called out.
Jar-Jar reached for Darth Maul's waist, lifting him off of the ground.
"Flip!" Jar-Jar yelled, flipping over and slamming Maul on the ground on his head.
Darth Maul yelled as he landed on his head. His legs and arms fell to the ground afterwards. He could not move. The force of the attack left him paralyzed. He knew it would not be long before he could move again, but he was in such a state of shock that he was certain it would take him a while before he could feel movement again. Even his legs could not move from the unexpected attack.
Jar-Jar grabbed Maul's Double-Bladed Lightsaber hilt and separated them. He activated both of the red blades and stabbed them into Maul's legs, causing him to yell again before he regained the Xiphon, aiming it down at him but not activating its black blade just yet.
Everyone stood in shock at Jar-Jar actually defeating Darth Maul. Robin, however, was not surprised, and watched in anticipation to see what would happen next.
"That's a fine Gungan you've got there, Chancellor." King Basim said as Queen Lana smiled.
"He's more than a Gungan," Padmé said. "He's Jar-Jar."
"What are you waiting for… Jar-Jar?" Darth Maul asked as Jar-Jar looked down to him. "You have defeated me. Do what Kenobi could not accomplish and seize the day! Kill me!" he snarled. "Qui-Gon would! He would have killed me immediately!"
"Yousa wrong," Jar-Jar said, tossing the Xiphon away. "He would want you to stand for what you've done. Yousa gonna stand before da Senate and let Padmé be the judge," he said. "Maul… you're gonna face justice."
Everyone smiled at Jar-Jar as he got off of Maul. Lux looked to the Senate Commandos and nodded, getting them to close in on Maul and take him away.
"Nice job." Robin said as he patted Jar-Jar on the shoulder.
"I had good teachers." Jar-Jar said as he smiled at both Robin and Captain Rex.
King Basim and Queen Lana both got up with Padmé's help. However, as Ahsoka was using the Force to lift up a spilled vase, she suddenly noticed the drink float in the air.
"Tachyons!" Ahsoka exclaimed. She gasped in horror at the realization. "Thawne!"
At that moment, a red streak zoomed by, killing the Senate Guards. Maul grinned at everyone while regaining his lightsaber. Soon, Thawne came by, eyeing Padmé dangerously.
"Thawne…" Padmé said sternly. "That's right, I know of you and your deeds. Your murder of Kid Flash's great Aunt and Uncle won't go unnoticed."
"You have courage, I'll give you that," the Reverse-Flash said. "But do you think it will be enough to win the War?"
"We won't stop trying." Padmé replied, not backing down. She gestured for everyone to aim their weapons at Maul and Thawne.
"Another day." Thawne said before racing off with Maul.
"We almost had him." Anakin said.
"Next time, we'll get him for sure." Rocket said.
Padmé nodded before turning back to the Arthurian Delegates. "My sincere apologies for the interruption tonight," she apologized. "We can reschedule again if you—"
"I think we have seen enough," Queen Lana said. "From what I've seen tonight, you, the Jedi and the Young Justice, even Representative Binks, have courage to look death straight in the eye."
"This is exactly what we look for in our allies," King Basim said before resting his sword. "There is no need to resume the dinner, for we happily agree to join the Republic."
Padmé smiled and bowed, as did the Young Justice. "Thank you," she said. "We promise you won't regret this decision."
Back on Mustafar, C-3PX was mending Maul's legs. As he was recovering, Lady Shiva came in.
"I heard you failed in capturing Amidala," Shiva said. "My apologies. If I were there…"
"My goal was never the Republic… but its secrets," Maul said as C-3PX revealed a data tape with the symbol of the Republic on it. "C-3PX was able to steal this data," he explained. "Now… are they here?"
"They're here," Thawne said as he walked over with his mask off. Behind him were OceanMaster, Zod and Ma'alefa'ak. "Time to come out of the shadows."
Lady Shiva grinned as she snapped her fingers. Behind her were Harley Quinn, Malcolm Merlyn, Felix Faust and Kinetica. The eight new recruits into the DarkSiders bowed before Maul.
"We live to serve you… Lord Maul." Felix Faust said.
Maul grinned and got up.
"Welcome, one and all…" Maul said with a grin. "Welcome… my Legion of Doom."
Author's Notes: Well, everyone, how do you like that? You like my newest Chapter? Please thank TheGreatGodzilla for offering me this idea. He insisted I do this after he saw Star Wars: Forces of Destiny. Sorry this took so long, but I was spending a lot of time with my family and working at my new job, so you can understand the delay. I'll have a new chapter out soon, I promise. Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, if you can, Private Message me for anything on the Story. After all, I'm always keen to hear from you, just as long as it's positive. For now, this is SuperHeroTimeFan signing off. Happy Force Friday, everyone! May the Force be with you! I'll see you all soon!
