Disclaimer – all original Star Wars characters in this fanfic (excluding my OC's) are the property of Lucasfilm and Disney.
Chapter 21 "The First Mission."
First prototypes! Thanks to the B1 battle droid schematics downloaded from the droid factory on Mygetto, the Kingdom of the Force was able to create their first batch of the new battle droids, which will help its members in the battle against the Dread Masters.
General Grievous and Commander Rex decided to test the new models before they would take them into the battlefield and entrust them with the lives of the young members of the Kingdom of the Force.
Zulio – The Third Moon of Shili, Temple of Balance, Research Center.
Created to please even the most demanding scientists, the research center in the Temple of Balance was equipped with more than enough technology to create the most advanced marvels in galactic history. While the research center could produce a few prototype models of weapons, droids and other various type of technologies, it wasn't designed to mass produce. After a prototype was approved, the scientists created their schematics, which were sent to one of the Kingdom's factories for mass production.
Grievous and Rex waited in an observation area above the room designed for testing new prototype models. The room below consisted of simulated battlefields. Through the use of adjustable blueish repulsor floor plates and atmosphere generators, which could be activated with a control panel in the observation room, the room below could easily replicate a variety of environments and terrains. It was also able to create crude stadiums for the demonstration of combat skills.
Small white probes hovered around the room and acted as small cameras so that people above in the observation room could see everything to the slightest detail on the screens on the right.
"I'm actually interested to see them," said Rex, who watched the empty room below through a large window. "The clankers of the Kingdom... heh, it's sound comical but also intriguing."
"The name is not important," replied Grievous, who leaned against a wall near the door. "As long as they're capable of doing their job, I don't care what they're called or how they look like."
"Can't argue about that," admitted Rex.
"I'm sorry you waited," said a Rakatan scientist, who entered the observation room. "The prototypes are ready for demonstration."
"Good, let's see them," Grievous pushed himself off the wall and approached Rex. Both of them watched as six standard B1 battle droids entered the room.
As always, they stood 1.93 meters tall and were humanoid in form, physically identical to their direct predecessor, the OOM-series battle droid. Their long, elongated heads atop tall, slender necks were designed in imitation of their builders at Baktoid's Geonosian foundries. Superstitious Neimoidians were known to spread the rumor that B1 battle droids' heads were designed to imitate the shape of a Neimoidian's withered skull after death, and many species found the B1's appearance disturbing.
After a few seconds, three new white-orange battle droids entered the room right behind the six standard ones, who went to the other end. Color aside, the difference in appearance was immediately noticeable, but there were some noticeable similarities.
The battle droids of the Kingdom were more bulky and sturdy-looking. Not to mention their physique was even more close to a humanoid than the B1 model. The torso and abdomen were created from segments which, from afar, looked like toned muscles. The lower abdomen was much thicker unlike the B1 or even BX commando models. They had five fingers and the most eye-catching were their heads which were shorter, but thicker with three white photoreceptors on each side. Placed on a shorter, but sturdier necks, their heads were positioned more perpendicularly unlike the heads of the B1 models, which were pointed more forward.
Grievous noticed a protruding pad from their chests, which he guessed served as a communication device. The droids could communicate without ceasing their actions. A clear improvement.
Rex noticed that the droids had a visible spinal cord along with cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebra, which somehow sparkled. It was an interesting design, but he wondered was what it used for.
"They look good, but we need to see their skills," said Grievous.
"Of course General," said the Rakata, who pushed a few buttons on the control panel near the window. The blueish repulsor floors began to shift and create a battlefield. After a couple of seconds, the room resembled a jungle-like environment with dense greenery. All droids had the same weapons, a standard E-5 blaster rifle, so the odds were even.
The new battle droids immediately dashed forward with impressive speed. One of them took cover behind a tree, while the other two jumped and climbed it.
Rex and Grievous approached the screens on their right. Thanks to the probes, they were able to see everything.
The six battle droids simply walked towards the other end of the jungle. As always they didn't really care about strategy. The B1's personalities were often dim-witted, but no attempt was made to fix this issue during the Clone Wars. Individual B1 battle droids were not effective soldiers against enemies like clone troopers in combat, and so the B1s primarily relied on mass-assault tactics to achieve victory, but not the new models.
The Rakata pushed another button on the panel and another six battle droids of the standard type entered the jungle-like room from the same side as the new ones. They had a shorter route towards the new droids, than the first six battle droids.
"Twelve versus three? A little unfair," pointed out Grievous.
"According to our calculations, one new battle droid is superior to a clone trooper," replied the scientist. "So in this case, our new droids still have the upper hand."
"Why is that?" asked Rex.
"Well for one they're droids so they won't be incapacitated by wounds that would affect organic beings," answered the Rakata. "Second, they aren't affected by usual organic issues so they don't have to worry about exhaustion or fatigue. Third, their six photoreceptors grant them almost a 360-degree vision, that can be switched to infrared spectrum, which makes ambushing them almost impossible. Forth, their combat skills are much more advanced than a standard B1 model, I can even say that they are on par with BX-series models in that field."
"What's more," the Rakata went on. "Their biggest advantage is located in their spines. Unlike a normal B1 model, which can be neutralized by destroying its head, the Kingdom model has its whole programming in the spinal cord. It's crucial since it makes their behavior faster and more advanced. We imprinted the rules and believes of the Kingdom there so they're loyal, intelligent and independent soldiers."
Just like the Rakata said, when the six battle droids began to approach the new ones from behind, even before they began to shoot, the new models noticed them thanks to their wider field of vision.
The one taking cover behind a tree, quickly changed sides, while the two droids on the branch turned around. All three aimed at the B1 models and opened fire. Six headshots, that's all it took to destroy the B1 models.
The first six B1 battle droid that finally reached the new models began to shoot. They only aimed at the new model which circled around and once again took cover in the earlier place behind the tree. The B1 battle droids walked forward with no strategy and when they got close enough, the two droids on the branch jumped down behind them.
Before they could even turn around, the new models unleashed at the B1s and took care of them in a few seconds.
"The one behind the tree acted as a bait," noticed Grievous. "That's clever thinking. I must say if I had those droids during my time as a Separatists General, the war could've ended differently."
"I have to agree with you General," admitted Rex. "Those droids would be a real pain to deal with." The clone turned to look at the Rakata. "What do you call them?"
"A1 battle droids," replied the Rakata. "Quick and simple."
"Good, together with the Sentinels, they'll make a fine army for the Kingdom," stated Grievous.
"That's good to hear," a well-known voice came from the doorway. "Because we need to use them right away."
The Rakatan scientist, General Grievous and Commander Rex looked at Deiven who entered the room with a serious expression on his face. All three of them bowed their head with respect.
Sometime later - Zulio – The Third Moon of Shili, Temple of Balance, Communication Center.
It was a serious situation when all four ArchKnights decided to gather a large group in order to show them the message from Padawan Dume, who risked plenty to ask for help. Knights, Maul and General Grievous watched the message carefully and the former Jedi could not hide their shock, disgust and anger. The former Jedi Master Mace Windu acted like a maniac and many of them wanted to really take him down for torturing the young Padawans.
"...I'll erase this message and destroy some equipment so that they won't suspect a thing," said Caleb. "Please help us!"
When the message has ended, Avelon turned towards the group and spoke. "As you can see, the Padawans are being held in a prison called the Citadel. We need to break them free, but we need to do this stealthy. We don't want the Republic know that we attack the Citadel because the Chancellor may do something bad to the younglings on Coruscant. Luckily for us, thanks to Padawan Dume, the enemy is unaware that they've inform us."
"I can't believe this is the way of the new Republic," growled Knight Aritia. "The Chancellor is completely nuts!"
"Still, Master Billaba would be proud of her Padawan," stated Plo Koon. "It was a brave move."
Ahsoka smiled knowing that Barriss and the others were okay, but they needed to help them and fast. She was very happy when Deiven agreed to react and rescue them.
"Who will we send?" asked Anakin. He had a hunch he wouldn't be in the squad but he was okay with it for the sake of the mission.
"We obviously can't send many Force-users since Master Krell will sense them," pointed out Qui-Gon.
"Our three new battle droids will go," replied Deiven. "They'll be equipped with the original holographic disguise matrixes so that they could take the appearance of a standard B1 battle droid models. It will be their first field test, if they pass, we'll start mass production."
"ArchKnight Zai'shira will lead the mission since she's the most skilled in stealth operations and HK will accompany her," said Qui-Gon. "General Grievous will also join them since he's able to perform nicely despite his size."
The orange-skinned Togruta nodded and looked at the red-skinned Zabrak. "And Maul will join us," she stated, drawing many surprised looks. Maul himself, who stood with his arms crossed over his chest, gave his Master a questionable look, but he obediently complied and nodded.
"Alright, seven squad members will be enough," said Avelon. "You'll use the Silent Shadow to sneak past their fleet and land near the Citadel. In the worst-case scenario, the teleporting device aboard the ship will be used to quickly sent reinforcements to aid the squad."
Ahsoka, Aritia, and Anakin stay silent because they knew without instructions that they would be apart of the reinforcements with the other Knights in case something went wrong. All the Knights left the communication room expect for a select few, among those few stood Maul and Zai'shira, who could feel his eyes on her. "Why do you want me to go with you on a rescue mission?" he asked.
"Because you need to learn about more things than just assassination," replied the adult Togruta. "You must become comfortable with saving others, you're not here just because we need you to kill our enemies. Plus it would be your first mission as a member of the Kingdom so it would be a good thing for you. You could say that... we're popping your cherry."
The ArchKnights reached behind her and tossed something towards the Zabrak, who managed to catch it thanks to his reflex. It was a long hilt, of a double-bladed lightsaber. "Since you'll be fighting, you'll need a proper weapon," said the Togruta. "I know you're proficient with saberstaff. Be sure to use it wisely."
Maul smirked and activated the weapon. Two crimson blades emerged from both sides of the hilt and a humming sound filled his ears. It was a familiar feeling like during his times as a Sith apprentice.
"Gather your things and meet me aboard the Silent Shadow," said the ArchKnight.
"Yes, Master," the Zabrak bowed his head and walked away.
Ahsoka and Anakin immediately approached Zai'shira, the human cautiously watched Maul's back until the doors closed behind the Zabrak. "Are you sure it's safe to take him with you?" Anakin asked unsurely. To his surprise, it was Ahsoka who answered his question.
"It is," the young Togruta nodded confidently. "While his goals are different, he wants my mother to live so she can train him, he will keep an eye out for her."
"Correct," Zai'shira smiled and placed her hand on Ahsoka's shoulder. "As for you, don't make any crazy surprises and stay here unless the worse happens. Swear it to me."
"But you don't like when I swear," Ahsoka jested with a sly smile
"Ahsoka!" Zai'shira became serious.
"Okay, okay," Ahsoka nodded. "I swear I'll stay here unless something bad happens."
The older Togruta exhaled and nodded. "That's my girl," she said.
"Good luck Master Zai," said Anakin.
"Take care of my mom General," Ahsoka asked when Grievous passed by. The cyborg stopped and looked at Ahsoka, one could actually imagine a cheeky smile behind his mask as he calmly replied. "You're the only reckless member of this family so I won't have too, not that I won't keep her safe anyway."
"Yeah," Anakin agreed.
"Hey!" Ahsoka puffed her cheeks and blushed as Zai'shira and Anakin laughed cheerfully. Grievous only rolled his reptilian eyes. "You guys are one special family," he stated.
"I'll take that as I compliment," Zai'shira grinned.
"Heh, we'll be waiting aboard the Silent Shadow ArchKnight Zai'shira," he informed and left the communication room.
"I need to get ready," informed the Togruta. "Wish us luck."
"Sure thing!" Ahsoka said vigorously.
When Zai'shira left the room, Aritia approached Anakin and placed a hand on his upperarm. "Take care of yourself stud," she said with a wink and leaned towards him. Ahsoka was really surprised and arched her white eyebrow markings when the female Firrerreo gave Anakin a kiss on a cheek.
"You to Aritia," Anakin replied with a smile.
Twenty minutes later - Zulio – The Third Moon of Shili, Temple of Balance.
As Anakin and Ahsoka walked down the corridors of the Temple, the young Togruta was curious about what happened earlier. "So you and Aritia are together?" she suddenly asked.
"What? Why the sudden question Snips?" Anakin asked back.
"Well Padmé told you half a year ago that you two should start seeing new people and take a break from each other, but I just didn't think you would actually do it," she replied honestly. "I never expected you to give up. I thought that you would stubbornly refuse to let go and keep fighting for her attention and love."
"Oh, you mean like you fight for Deiven's," Anakin replied with a half-smile, but immediately added. "I can sense you're worrying about Padmé. Don't worry, she and I are completely happy with how the things are right now. She's also seeing someone, so you don't have to worry about her being lonely or anything."
"Oh? I didn't know she did," Ahsoka replied. "It's been a while since I last saw her." Deciding to just ignore the earlier statement but couldn't hide her slight blush that judging by Anakins teasing smile, was no doubting noticing.
"Well after the Kingdom has managed to terraform the planet after the rakghoul incident to its former state, the Nabooians returned to their homes while the orbital array keeps them safe," said Anakin. "She has her duties now, but she visits us from time to time. Even the ArchKnights said she has become the most passionate and helpful member of the Kingdom. Her speeches and political influence has won us many new allies."
"That's good to hear," Ahsoka replied with a wide smile.
"Yeah, so don't worry about a thing and let's get ready for the mission," said Anakin.
"Alright!" Ahsoka agreed, but she noticed that Anakin hadn't completely answered her question.
Hyperspace Tunel,Silent Shadow's Cockpit.
"We'll reach Belderone sector in half an hour," informed Zai'shira, who piloted the ship. "Everyone ready for action?"
"Yes," Maul replied simply.
"Of course," assured Grievous.
HK entered the room with three A1 battle droids right behind. They immediately activated their holographic disguise matrixes. After a few seconds, three B1 battle droids stood inside the cockpit. No one would be able to tell the difference.
"Assurance: We're ready ArchKnight Zai'shira."
"Roger, Roger," the droids said simultaneously. All seven members of the rescue squad were ready for the mission.
"Good," the ArchKnight nodded. "Just remember our focus is stealth and rescuing the Padawans without the knowledge of the Republic."
"Isn't this a little too much?" Maul asked. "Infiltrating the Citadel is one thing, but sneaking in and out with the Padawans without the knowledge of the guards? They had to be either blind or just plain stupid."
"That's why we going to slip in via two teams," Zai'shira replied with a sneaky smile. "You, me and Grievous will sneak into the control room and take out everyone inside. Without their eyes and main means of communication, they won't alert the Republic. HK and the droids will stealthily take care of the guards and other battle droids in the prison block. When they're all taken out, we can safely take the Padawans back to the temple. It won't matter how many young Jedi are inside because we will use the teleporter aboard the Silent Shadow."
"A very optimistic plan," pointed the red-skinned Zabrak.
"It is but trust me such missions are my bread and butter," Zai'shira said with a confident smile.
Maul sighed. "I never would've thought that a day would come that I would be rescuing Jedi," he shook his head in disappointment.
"I once killed Jedi and collected their lightsabers so I know what you mean, but think about this as rescuing young, talented Force-users, who will join our cause," stated Grievous. "Besides, didn't Sith Masters sometimes corrupt young Jedi in order to turn them to the dark side? Imagine you're doing something similar. You even going to have a chance to kill a Jedi Master so it's not that different."
"That's one way to look at it," said Zai'shira.
Maul inhaled through his nose and concentrated. What the General said made sense, but it will be strange to save Jedi Padawans. At least he'll be able to fight a Master and kill him, that would brighten up his mod.
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