Words vs. swords

Actions may speak louder than words. But actions are temporary. Words last for a life time

[(+)]

The catacombs were constructed like an inner sanctum or sanctuary. Caves carved out into arches leading deeper into the mysterious cave system. Pools of water, rippling by drips from the stalagmites, were darkened, cold, likely leading to the outside…or somewhere else.

A base had been established. 10 typical B1 droids and 10 Commando droids emerged from the submarines, downloading schematics of the inner sanctum, and scouting the area for any uninvited guests. Meanwhile Grievous adjourned to his holoprojector, contacting Dooku with his status. "We have just established base, My Lord. What is the plan from here?"

"As we speak, the Viceroy is being escorted to the holding cells to be detained. As of yet he is not a ward of the republic." He furrowed his brow sternly, "You must retrieve him before that can happen."

"What makes you so sure?" Grievous challenged with the utmost respect. "Maybe the Rodian will keep him. Put him to death."

"The people of Rodia may 'permit' the death penalty," A sinister grin crawled across his face, "But their conscience will never allow them to execute it."

"Understood." Grievous bowed his head. The Count ended the conversation. "Let us get this operation underway." He commanded. "Our main objective is the prison." One of the Commando droids handed him a projector with a map of the underground tunnels. "I will journey to the Viceroy. The rest of you alert the other squads and take your places. Await my command."

[(+)]

Dod, Tuuk, and Canay trailing closely behind, Gunray cooperatively sauntered down the large hallway. His cuffed hands swayed listlessly left to right. Dod continuously watched the Viceroy and the large arching windows. Guards standing watch at the doors leading to the holding cells snapped to attention and saluted. Graciously they opened the doors, allowing the Viceroy and his companions to pass through.

The hall was decorated by a velvet red carpet. Stone statues of Rodians built to the size of obelisks lined the carpet, traveling down the hallway, each parted by a few feet. The large arching windows nearest the ceiling had a platform protruding from the wall. Plants decorated them.

Peering around a corner, Tanya and Slick hissed in failure as the Viceroy vanished beyond the large doors. Taking two steps to the sides of the door and facing forward, the guard returned to their duty. "Figures there would be guards." Tanya snarled. She and Slick ducked behind the wall. "Guards who actually do their job." She disparaged. "Never thought I'd see the day." Such acts did not exist in prison. Guards only served their purpose unless paid in three times the full amount. Tanya growled, puffing her bangs impatiently. She placed her back to the wall, tail swishing side to side. "Ironic though it may sound," She hissed gruffly, "Guards who take their job seriously aggravate me." She narrowed her gaze to the side, envisioning hostilely the reaction the guards would take should they approach. "Denial if we ask, or forceful removal should we push through?" Her tail's wagging increased. "Either one will excite me, but not grant the goal we must achieve."

"What's the plan now?" Slick asked in defeat. Tanya hummed, massaging her chin pensively. They needed to get inside that prison area without rousing the guards. But how? "There's no way they'll let us in." Tanya ran her eyes over the hall, searching for an alternate route. "At least not without the proper admission."

"Then we'll need to gain our own admission." Tanya chortled. Her sights were set upon the upper arch windows. The sun shined through them, gracing the halls with a warm light and fresh air. She followed the windows, and discovered they crossed over into the holding area. "I always did hate the front door."

Before Slick could ask what she meant, Tanya pushed from the wall and as fast as she could. Jumping she gripped onto one of the statues, and climbed up. She grabbed hold of the ledge and crawled on. As a precaution, Tanya plastered her back to the head of the Rodian statue. Poking her head around, she found the Rodians had not noticed her ascent. She motioned a hand to Slick, urging him to follow.

Without a word of protest, Slick darted for the statue and climbed as fast as he could. As he reached the shoulder, the doors to the prison area opened. The guards escorting Gunray had returned. Slick expedited his pace. Tanya reached out and pulled him up. Both cowered behind the statue. The two guards meandered by, not turning so much as a head.

"Guess that means the Viceroy's been put in his cage." Tanya assumed, cautious of how loud she spoke.

"Then we should hurry." Slick urged, crawling for the window. "Negotiations may be getting underway between them."

"There's nothing to negotiate." Tanya grumbled ominously. "If I'm right, those two money mongers already have a plan set in motion."

[(+)]

The guard gingerly placed Gunray into his cell, casting up the Ray Shield so he could not escape. Dod thanked them for their hospitality. They did not deserve it. The guards were inclined to agree. But due to courtesy and ethics they could not comment hostilely. So without another word or desire to remain for another second, the guards gathered themselves and exited.

Gunray sat himself on the bench bolted to the wall, grumbling heatedly under his breath as his brow bounced. Impatiently he tapped on his bicep, and stamped his foot as well. Dod hummed pensively, running his finger along his chin. Tuuk and Canay paced from one end of the jail to the other, keeping their eyes to the ground.

"How much longer does he intend to make me wait?" Gunray barked.

"Not for much longer." Dod assured him. From up above, on the ledge by the window, Tanya and Slick crawled on their stomachs, peering over the edge. "He should be here fairly short." Tanya and Slick both exchanged curious glances. Who was this he Dod was talking about? And why was he showing up?

Gunray snorted venomously, "I'm surprised he did not arrive while that inane trial went on." He gripped his arm, curling his filed finger nails into his robes. "Even with that child's interference, he should have been here before us!"

Tanya growled under her breath, furrowing her ears back sharply. She narrowed her eyes gruffly, wishing her Jedi abilities allowed her to read minds rather than emotions and faces. But for right now the fact that she and Slick discovered there was a purpose behind that act in the Hall was a reward worthy of 100,000 credits.

"Hm…" Tanya hummed, watching Slick bring out his holoprojector. "What's that for?" She whispered close to the ground.

"These do more than just communicate." Slick boasted. He pressed a button. A red light flickered on and off. "Now all we do is listen."

"Maybe we can get others to listen in." Tanya tapped her comlink, only to receive muffled static. She tapped it again, wondering if her hearing was playing tricks. "Slick?" She chimed. "Am I going crazy or…"

"We're being jammed." He gasped.

"This day just keeps getting interesting." Tanya hummed pensively.

"The catacombs are long and treacherous." Dod coaxed Gunray in ease. Catacombs? Slick questioned mentally. "I am sure-" Dod was interrupted by four powerful knocks on the tiled marble floor. Tuuk and Canay, feeling the knocks, were startled backwards, scrambling to the wall. The tile came loose, breaking from the plaster. Eight more around the one were broken off next. Tanya and Slick leaned further over the ledge, their curiosity pulling them closer. One by one the tiles were removed, revealing a cave tunnel. A droid like hand grappled to the edge. Tanya's tail sprang up. Loud, hollowed groans erupted from the newly created hole as a massive droid pulled himself from the tunnel.

"GET DOWN!" Slick panicked in a whisper, pushing Tanya's head down.

"Why?" She hissed. "It's just a droid."

"That's no ordinary droid." Slick's voice trembled. "That's General Grievous."

Tanya's eyes widened, "That's Grievous?" Ahsoka told Tanya about Grievous when she and Anakin returned from rescuing R2. "He's a lot less impressive in person."

"Impressive or not, he's one of Dooku's top lieutenants."

Tanya's ears flared at Dooku's name. "Like Ventress?"

"Yeah. Only there's a discrepancy between which is considered more dangerous." Slick leaned in, lowering his voice even more. "They say he's even killed Jedi Masters."

Tanya inadvertently swallowed a nervous lump. She had the unfortunate pleasure of facing Ventress and Dooku. The first which she lost, the second she didn't stand a ghost of a chance. Now there is another general of the Confederacy…and he's killed masters. "Two Generals. Both skilled." Tanya assessed, feeling her nerves rattle. "Both work under Dooku. But no one can judge which is better." Tanya's hand subconsciously touched her saber. She gritted her teeth, fuming at the mouth. "Suddenly I feel outclassed." Her tongue ran over her lips lovingly, grinning like a madman (girl). "It makes my fingers itch." She purred.

"Pardon the wait." Grievous apologized sardonically. "I missed my turn."

"Save the apologies for your wife!" Gunray hissed. Not that Grievous had a wife. "Do you realize how long I have been waiting?"

Grievous punched his fist into the wall, breaking some of it away. Tanya touched her shoulder tenderly, feeling the wall's pain. "I hope you realize," Grievous growled, "Count Dooku asked me to bring you back alive." Grievous grounded the rubble from the wall in his palm, "He never said in one piece." Gunray gulped hard, backing away from the wall.

"Now, now, gentlemen," Dod intervened, gently coaxing the General back. "There's no need for violence. Not when we're about to fool the Rodians and republic right under their noses." Gunray, Tuuk, Canay, and Grievous chuckled in triumph. To all appearances the people of Rodia and the Jedi were unaware of their presence. Two were the exception. "Are things ready?" Dod asked.

"The submarines are prepped and ready." He pointed to the tunnel, and the blinking red lights, "All you need do if follow the markers." Gunray sniggered victoriously. All was coming into place. "By the time the Rodians realize you're gone, you'll be halfway to Serenno."

"Good." Gunray purred. "Now get me out of here." Tuuk produced a special all access pass key card. Handing it to Dod they sniggered, feeling their victory close at hand. Grievous moved for the door and downed the ray shield.

"Just leave the rest to us." Dod insisted. "We'll leave, claim ignorance, and state we had nothing to do with this." He chuckled. "Not that they'll be able to prove it otherwise."

"That's what he thinks." Slick boasted, ending the recording. He started to crawl backwards for the window, when Tanya slapped a hand to his arm. "What?"

"We have to do something." She urged.

"Like what?"

"I don't know!" She panicked. "But if Gunray gets away, even with this video, we may never find him again."

"Did you forget about Grievous?" Slick pleaded. "Not to doubt you, but you don't stand a chance against him."

"I don't need to stand a chance." She assured, locking her sights onto the Neimoidians and Grievous. "We just need to keep them from escaping." The tunnel – the path to an infinite system of tunnels and dead ends - was their means of escape and disappearance. Hm…Their only means of escape. "Do you have a thermal grenade?"

"Yeah…" Slick answered cautiously. "Why?"

"Hand it over."

"But-"

"Slick! We are running out of time!"

Slick scrambled and handed her the grenade. "You're not really going to blow them up are you?"

"Can't conversate with the dead." She stated, setting the grenade to blow.

Slick backed away in caution. "Then…"

"The main threat…" She rose to her feet, "IS THE ESCAPE!" She chucked the grenade.

"What!" Grievous shouted.

All heads shot up to Tanya, missing the grenade as it fell into the tunnel. "CORUSCANT SCORES!" She cheered

"HOW DID YOU GET IN HERE?" Dod roared.

"You have more explosive issues to worry about." Tanya snickered. She and Slick stepped outside the window and grabbed onto something.

Dod opened his mouth to demand an explanation. The thermal grenade blew, erupting smoke and mountains of rubble from the hole. The Neimoidians and Grievous were gusted back from the aftershock.

[(+)]

The guards outside the door heard a loud howl of something booming come from behind the door. "What was that?" One of them asked.

[(+)]

In the Grand Hall, Obi-Wan, Luminara, Cody, and Hailster remained with Farr, anxiously waiting for Tanya to return. A sudden vibration under their feet, and an aftershock boom interrupted their train of thought.

"What was that?" Farr asked.

"I think Tanya discovered what she was looking for." Obi-Wan grumbled, now officially disturbed.

Cody and Hailster tapped their comlinks. "Sir," Cody beckoned dismally, "We can't reach the commander. We're being jammed." Luminara raised a brow.

"Hailster, stay with Master Unduli." Obi-Wan ordered. "Cody with me!" The two rushed out of the Grand Hall.

"Senator," Luminara addressed Farr somberly, "I suggest you persuade your colleagues to remain here."

[(+)]

When the dust cleared from the blown tunnel, Grievous snarled venomously. The tunnel was completely caved in. Tanya and Slick peered over the edge. They clapped congratulatory hands, sensing victory in their pockets. "That's republic two, Trade Federation and confederacy zero."

"You're going to pay for this, child!" Gunray swore. "Your first mistake in the Grand Hall I allowed to slide. But this will cost you dearly."

"Remind me to be scared later." Tanya challenged.

The doors to the holding area opened. The two guards outside ran in, aiming their rifles to the General. "DON'T MOVE!"

"You're under arrest!"

Grievous chuckled. Reaching behind his back and drew a lightsaber. Tanya's eyes flared. "FREEZE!" Grievous charged.

"DON'T MOVE!" Grievous was upon them. Tanya ignited her saber, gave the recording to Slick, and jumped. Grievous brought his saber down. Tanya's saber caught his, saving the guards.

Tanya spread her feet, digging her boots in to the marble floors as hard as she could. The General's strength was a heavier than Ventress', plus he was taller. He was a force to be reckoned with. Tanya's hands began to itch excitedly again.

The guards aimed. Grievous laughed. He removed one hand and drew another saber. Tanya gasped in shock. Breaking one hand away, she summoned all her strength and force pushed Grievous back. He only moved five feet. Tanya coughed, bringing air back into her.

"This is private Armio!" One of the guards shouted into his comlink. "I need backup at the holding cell!" Nothing but static. "HELLO?"

"We're being jammed." Tanya alerted him. "Listen!" She snapped to the guards. "One of you alert the others, the other get to the hospital wing! We may have a separatist invasion!"

"Yes ma'am!" The two Rodian guards dashed out of the prison area.

"Let them alert all they wish to involve," Gunray dared her smugly, "These Rodian's do not stand a chance!"

"You let me worry about that!" Tanya spat. "In the meantime, Senator Dod, you may wish to revise your alibi." She teased harshly. Pointing to Slick, the Sergeant displayed a holoprojector. Dod hissed horror. "Once the Republic gets ahold of that the entire Trade Federation will fall down the shitter along with the good Viceroy." Dod growled like a rabid dog, clenching his fist. Tanya laughed. She handed it to Slick. "Slick, get it to Master Kenobi and step on it. Keep your eyes peeled."

"What about you?"

"Someone has to keep him back." She addressed Grievous. The droid laughed derisively. "You know he'll chase us, regardless of the recording."

"Sir…he…"

"Go Slick." That was all she had to say on the matter.

Slick wished to protest further. But the gleam in Tanya's eyes told him she would not be dissuaded. "Yes sir." Slick climbed out the window and ran along the ledge.

Grievous chuckled darkly. "So that's how you got in." He marveled. "Never expected a Jedi to think outside the box." He narrowed his eyes as Tanya gripped her saber tightly. Her hands pulsated, and her arms throbbed. He's stronger than Ventress. But not faster. She mentally analyzed. "But you and I both know you are more than a mere Jedi…Bounty Hunter."

Tanya grinned sinisterly, "Very perceptive." She chuckled. "Since I know the lap dogs of the confederacy aren't smart enough to figure it out, am I safe in assuming Count Dooku told you about me?"

"Indeed you are. Ventress has spoken of you as well, Tanya Fett. You've rubbed her the wrong way."

"I have that effect on people." She shot a glance to the fuming Neimoidians. "I've heard of you as well, General." She touched a hand to her chin, "Though I must say you're a lot shorter than I imagined you to be."

"Be careful, child," Grievous rumbled, "Your master is not here to save you."

"My master is on Coruscant." She stated firmly. "And I'm the last child that needs saving."

"Confidence!" Grievous laughed. "I like that." Tanya snorted in insult. Yet another Separatist who likes her.

Dod stepped in front of Grievous, frothing at the mouth. "I warn you child!" He rumbled forebodingly. "I don't know what you think you got on the projector, but know that it will not protect you." Tanya's tail jerked up. A subconscious grin snaked across her lips. "You know not the dangerous game you are playing!" Dod warned her ominously.

"Oh but I do." She chortled, grinning impishly, "And so far I'm in the lead."

"A recording, on top of blocking our escape?" Grievous hummed with intrigue. "Very clever of you." He purred. "Count Dooku was not over estimating when he mentioned your ingenuity." Tanya furrowed her brow, growling in the back of her throat. "But I'm afraid clever will not save you." Grievous flourished his two sabers. "You've just trapped yourself with me."

"Again, I don't need saving." Tanya took her stance. "I just need time."

"Time," He extinguished one saber, "Which you no longer have." Grabbing his comlink Grievous disabled the jammer. The static left Tanya's comlink. "All droids ADVANCE!"

[(+)]

Slick sprinted as fast as he could along the ledge, racing for a window which would bring him to the Grand Hall. Along the way he caught a glimpse of the hospital wing, and Rodian's rushing to remove Padme, Jar-Jar, and other patients.

Whirling engines tore through the air, prompting the Sergeant to halt. The sky was ripped through by droid fighter jets. In the water, submarines broke through the surface. "Damn…" He glanced back the way he just came, knowing in his gut what troubles lied ahead. "Tanya…"

[(+)]

In the grand hall, the large doors to the Grand Hall were blown off their hinges. Instinctively Hailster grabbed Senator Farr and ducked for cover. Luminara ignited her saber. B1 and B2 droids trudged in, unleashing volleys of laser bolts. The guards standing at their posts armed themselves and returned fire. The councilmen ducked to the ground. A couple guards escorted them to safety. Luminara deflected as many laser bolts as she could. The fire was heavy while guards were falling.

"This is General Unduli! Separatist invasion! Requesting Code 3 assistance at Rodian Palace! Send help now!"

"En route!"

"Hailster," Luminara addressed him sternly, "Cover me!"

"You got it!"

[(+)]

Obi-Wan and Cody rounded their fifth hallway, drawing to the halfway mark to the holding cell. Over the comlink he overheard Luminara requesting back up, confirming his suspicions with the earlier rumble.

As they rounded another corner, six commando droids appeared. Cody skidded and backed away behind the wall for cover. Obi-Wan ignited his saber. The droids opened fire.

"Well at least we know we're heading in the right direction." He quipped, blocking the bolts.

[(+)]

Debris fell from the ceiling. Tanya flinched, covering her head. Grievous encroached upon her. His two sabers came down. Tanya rolled out of the way. The saber carved deep into the marble. Tanya remained crouched to the ground, ready to pounce when he moves. "I'll give Ventress this much credit," She snarled, sweeping her tail over the dust covered marble, "She's a lot faster than you. But your strength out matches hers."

"This helps you how?" Grievous questioned.

"Ventress is built for agility – meaning she relies on weight shifting to keep balance and attack." She elucidated. "You're built for strength." She eyed his feet. "Meaning you rely on your feet to keep your balance and put force behind your attacks." Tanya ignited her saber. "So unless you have speed behind you, this isn't going to take long."

"You're right. It isn't." Grievous chuckled. "Because you're going to die here!"

Tanya extending a hand, and force pushed the four Neimoidians into one of the jail cells. The ray shield activated. "Stay put!" She charged for Grievous.

Tanya rounded the saber and axed down. Grievous blocked with one and thrust with the other. Tanya dodged to the side, feeling the heat brush past her stomach. One strike after the other Grievous and Tanya struck parried. Tanya's speed and flexibility made it a challenge for Grievous to injure her. But Grievous' strength weakened her muscles, tiring her out faster. Tanya back flipped, springing as Grievous struck for her feet. Landing on a knee she held her blade with the hilt up. Grievous' sabers collided, sliding Tanya six inches.

"Hm!" She winced. A sharp pain pierced her torso. What? Grievous quickly drew one saber back, letting it grinding tauntingly against Tanya's. As Tanya's eyes remained on the saber. In the blink of an eye Grievous' foot collided with her chest, launching her next to the caved in hole. Tanya rolled onto her stomach, spitting up blood. Grievous' shadow loomed over her. She rolled away, watching his foot stomp where he head was. Tanya sprang back, keeping her distance. She hissed in pain when she leaned against one of the cells. My ribs…they're burning…

"You're slowing down, bounty hunter." Grievous mocked her. "Getting tired?"

"Nah." She twisted her body, working the curiously sore muscles. "Just giving you a small chance to prevail."

"Quite generous."

"Thank you." Tanya panted heavily, feeling her throbbing muscles ache, especially in her torso. What's going on? She avoided touching her ribs, not wanting to reveal the pain. I thought I was cleared.

[(+)]

The droid fighters circled the palace, firing on all exit bridges and landing pads in an attempt to trap the Rodian's in. From the rooftops of all buildings within range, Rodian's fired from heavy cannons, nicking and damaging all oncoming fighters.

From beyond the clouds, Republic fighters burst into the atmosphere. Without a moment's hesitation they opened fire, narrowing the playing field, giving Rodian's a window of opportunity for victory.

"General, this is Waxer!" One of the troopers announced. "Your back up is here!"

[(+)]

"Well done, Waxer!" Luminara commended, deflecting laser bolts at the same time.

The battle droids held their position in front of the door, relentlessly firing. The Rodian Guards put up a Hell of a fight. Ducking, covering, and shooting in sync to keep the droids from advancing.

Luminara, with the cover of the guards and Hailster, pushed through the onslaught of laser bolts. The droids began to focus their fire upon her, giving Hailster and the Guards an opening.

One by one the droids were shot down. Luminara sliced through their chest plates, cutting down the remaining droids, bringing an end to the fight.

"Is everyone alright?" Luminara beckoned.

"No major casualties." One of the guards announced, helping Farr from his hiding place. The councilmen emerged from their panic room.

Luminara nodded, pleased with the outcome. Gazing out the massive windows, she watched and listened as the republic fighters combat the separatists with extreme ferocity. "It is no mystery as to why the Confederacy has appeared." She announced strongly. "They are after the Viceroy. What is the fastest way to the Prison Area?"

The head councilmen pointed to a side door nearest the Council's table. "Through this door, down the corridor, take a left, and then a right. It will bring you to the hall."

"Right." Luminara nodded. She faced the other Guards, "The rest of you must defend the main hallway!" She urged them urgently. "The separatists will come in on all sides."

"RIGHT!" The guards ran out the grand doors, splitting off into teams.

Luminara waved a haling hand, "COME ON, HAILSTER! We're going to the prison."

"Right behind you sir!"

[(+)]

When Obi-Wan and Cody finishes demolishing droids in one hall, they would round a corner only to be swamped with even more droids. He and Cody were steadily becoming overwhelmed, and they had four other halls to traverse.

Darting down a perpendicular hall to theirs, nurses from the medical bay zoomed through with Padme, Jar-Jar, and two other injured Rodians on stretchers. Obi-Wan heatedly advised them to take a different route. Padme, Jar-Jar and the others may get caught in the crossfire. The nurses executed completely U-Turns and went the other way.

Obi-Wan cut down the last droid, but was appalled to hear more droids coming around the corner. "This is getting ridiculous." Obi-Wan rasped, moving to his stance. "But we must press on. These droids must be removed."

"What are the odds they're after the Viceroy?" Cody remarked playfully, reloading his blaster.

"Very high." Obi-Wan answered.

"Higher than you think!" Slick shouted from the ledge above.

"Slick?" Obi-Wan chimed confusedly. "What are you doing here?" Slick jumped down. "Where's Tanya?"

"In the prison area holding off General Grievous!"

"ALONE!" Obi-Wan panicked.

"WITH GRIEVOUS?" Cody cried out. "Why aren't you with her?" He scolded.

Slick showed him the holoprojector with the recording on it. "Tanya and I have proof Dod and Gunray planned this whole thing! But due to circumstances, Tanya was forced to engage him!"

A thought occurred to Obi-Wan. "That circumstance wouldn't be that rumble we felt?"

"Grievous entered through the catacombs! She used a grenade to plug his escape!"

"And trap her with him!" Obi-Wan fumed. "We must get to her!" Obi-Wan took the holoprojector and placed it into his pocket. He then jumped on his comlink, "Waxer, send aqua units. We have droids beneath the palace!"

"On the way!"

"The three of us are getting to that prison!"

[(+)]

Grievous charged with his saber crossed in front. Tanya dove and rolled. The sabers sliced through the wall of the cell. He retaliated with two swift strikes. Tanya sprang back, weaving her body. When Grievous dragged his sabers over the cells, Tanya dove for the middle of the room. Grievous severed the ray shield controls, releasing the Neimoidians.

"Let's get out of here!" Dod decreed. He, Gunray, Tuuk, and Canay dashed from their cell, racing for the door.

"HEY!" Tanya howled. She wheeled around, flaring her saber. She raced for the Neimoidians. Her saber swung out.

Grievous' saber intercepted her, impeding her line of attack. "You're playing with me, child!" Grievous mocked. Tanya hissed and watched as the Neimoidians escaped out the door. "SO LET'S PLAY!" Grievous pushed her back. Tanya bounced back, and struck wildly. Grievous blocked her every strike.

The sabers eventually became deadlocked. Tanya winced as the white hot pain turned into stitches. Ignoring the pain she glared to the door. She needed to go after the Viceroy.

Grievous slid one saber back, allowing it to grind agonizingly slow and send chills down Tanya's spine. He then thrust forward. Tanya bent all the way back. The saber she fended off slipped and crashed into the other saber, barely missing and throwing his aim off. "Grn!"The pain hissed in her torso again. Tanya flipped to her front and bronco kicked back.

The foot only hit a hollowed metal platted chest, dealing no damage. Tanya felt the word DUH write itself out onto her forehead. Droid, Tanya! She cursed herself.

Grievous grabbed hold of her ankle. "My turn?" He yanked her into the air. "Allow me to show you real pain." Without warning he whipped her over his head. Her back connected with the floor, knocking the wind out of her. Flashbacks of Ventress subduing her on Tatooine flashed in her mind. Again…Grievous then wrenched her side ways and threw her into the wall. An image of Dooku cornering on the cliff on Aetha. It's happening again…Tanya collapsed onto her side, head buzzing. I'm…helpless…"I seem to recall you stating this fight would not take long." I'm…losing. Tanya groaned, pushing up on her hands and knees. I can't win. "I am inclined to agree." He stalked closer. "What Count Dooku see's in you is a mystery to me." Tanya fell onto her butt. The pain in her torso kept her from rising. This…can't…happen…static surged around her knuckles. "A bounty hunter and Jedi…" He clenched a clump of her hair in his hand, "And yet you put up a pitiful fight." It won't…happen…The static increased. He hoisted her up. If he had a mouth, Tanya could have sworn he was grinning. "Jango Fett must be writhing in his grave at your failure."

Tanya's eyes flared, narrowing into grey slits. Her canines grew slightly. Clenching one hand to his wrist, Tanya drew the other back. A powerful orb thundered in her palm. Grievous' eyes locked on with awe. "PUT…ME…DOWN!" Tanya lunged her hand. It touched Grievous' chest. Streams of lightning surged over his body, snaking through every crevice and opening. Grievous dropped her as he howled in pain. Tanya touched a hand to her head, shaking it wildly. "I'll never get used to that." Picking herself up she darted out the door, giving chase to the fleeing Neimoidians.

"GRAAH!" Grievous howled. "GET ME A LEVEL 1 EXTRACTION!" He commanded over the comlink. "LOCK ONTO MY POSITON!" He glared down the way Tanya retreated, bewildered thoughts running through his droid mind. "Impressive."

[(+)]

Gunray dashed down the hallways at top speed. Or at least as fast as his robes would allow them. He must have made it down five halls when he finally heard the commotion. The dogfight outside was getting heavy with each second that passed.

"Perhaps I can sneak out the back!" Gunray suggested to himself, coming to a 90 degree fork in the road. "With commotion, no one would be the wiser." He cackled, taking a left, only to come to a dead halt.

"I beg to differ." Obi-Wan chortled. Cody and Slick knelt, aiming their blasters. "I'm curious…" Obi-Wan stroked his beard perplexedly, "Were there not three of you?" Gunray, refusing to answer, backed away and tried the straight path. No dice.

"I am afraid this hall if blocked as well, sir." Luminara boasted. Hailster took aim. The Neimoidian hissed, feeling his options running out. "I believe Master Kenobi asked you a question." He tried to go back the way he came. Death's door closed.

"As the force as my WITNESS," Tanya fumed, panting heavily. She raised her saber to them, "You…move, and your head will roll on this floor!"

"To think we thought you were in trouble." Obi-Wan snickered smugly.

"I ditched trouble four hallways ago."

"HOW DID YOU ESCAPE, CHILD?" Gunray roared. He ran his eyes over her bruised and cut body. "How are you even still alive?"

"I'M A BOUNTY HUNTER YOU MORON!" She shrieked, sick and tired of people doubting her resilience based on her young appearance. "It takes more than a few bumps to keep me down!"

"Well said." Luminara complimented.

"Pleasantries aside," Obi-Wan interjected, "You still have yet to answer my question." He glanced to Tanya, "Where are Senator Dod and his friends?"

Tanya shook her head solemnly, "They were a couple minutes ahead of me. Those three could have gone anywhere."

"No matter." He shrugged. "With what we have, they won't get far."

"YOU JEST!" Gunray growled. "You have nothing!"

"On the contrary, Viceroy." Obi-Wan mocked him, displaying the projector. "We have quite a bit." Gunray bit his lip. "I reviewed what was caught on this projector." He waved it tauntingly. "I'd say you and all involved will be seeing the inside of court and jail pretty soon."

"So do you plan to reveal their whereabouts?" Luminara asked, approaching closer.

"Or do I have to beat it out of you?" Tanya barked. "Please pick the latter! I owe you for that event on Tatooine!"

Gunray hissed, backing away to the wall. The term rock and a hard place became a literary phrase. He felt the weight of his situation grow on his shoulders. To shrink and crawl away in cracks in the wall would be a blessing.

"Pick your poison, Viceroy!" Tanya snarled. Gunray flinched away from her. Tanya grinned. Boom… "Huh?" Her right ear twitched up. Boom… "What is that?"

Boom… "Hm?" Obi-Wan, Slick, and Cody glanced around, listening closely. Boom… "Too controlled. Not explosives, nor gunfire."

Boom…The crashes grew louder. Boom…Luminara and Hailster listened intently as well. Boom…"It's coming from your end, Tanya."

Tanya flexed her ears, trying to pinpoint exactly where the crashes were coming from. "The wall?" She chimed. Tanya carefully approached the wall. Boom…boom. The crashes were coming faster. She placed her ear to the wall. Boom…boom…They were closer. Boom…boom…It stopped. Ominous chill scaled down Tanya's spine. She quickly pushed away. BOOM! The entire wall burst open. Tanya flew into the other wall, crashing hard.

"YOU ALRIGHT?" Slick panicked.

Tanya howled in pain, pushing up on the wall. "I will be." She held her torso. Dammit! Luminara and Obi-Wan studied her suspiciously.

"Not for long." Before Tanya could react, Grievous blitzed her from the newly created hole. His shoulder rammed into her stomach, right between the ribs. Tanya was smashed into the wall, blood splurged from her mouth. The force spread through her rib crack. Cracks popped. Damn! Electrical pain stitched inside and out of every nerve in her body, making Tanya's vision blur into a white light. My…ribs…She wheezed dryly, hands jerking, face petrified in pain filled horror.

"TANYA!" Luminara cried out.

"Ha-ha-ha," Grievous chuckled, pressing his shoulder further in, "You are skilled, child," Tanya's body spasmed like a dying worm, "But I'm afraid I'm better." Saliva trickled down her jaw. She groaned lifelessly, eyes still widened. Grievous removed his. "Where's your lightning now?" Tanya dropped to her knees, and then fell to the ground like a ragdoll.

Obi-Wan, Luminara, and the three clones got into their fighting stances, ready to ambush Grievous the moment he twitched. Grievous chuckled, and then glanced to the window. "If I were all of you," He chortled, "I'd move away from the wall."

At first the Jedi and Clones were confused by his meaning. Gunray on the other hand cowered to the General's side. The whirring of an engine howled from the window. Tanya, body motionless, twitched her eyes to the window. A shadowed vessel encroached upon the window. Obi-Wan and Luminara grabbed hold of the clones and ran back.

A separatist transport cruiser crashed into the wall. The intersection of the three way hall was demolished. The rubble barely missed Tanya. Her arm hung off the ripped away ledge. A familiar aroma of seaweed and moss filled her nostrils. Water…

A ramp dismounted. Grievous shoved the Viceroy onto the ramp. The cruiser backed away, taking the Viceroy, and the Republic's prisoner. Tanya growled dryly, managing to get air back into her lungs. He crawled her hands forward, attempting to gain ground to push up. "The…water…" She gargled.

"Not taking your ride, Grievous." Obi-Wan hissed, walking as close to the ledge as he could. "Not very wise."

"On the contrary, Kenobi," Grievous placed his foot onto Tanya's head, keeping her pinned, "I find it wise." He pressed down, earning agonized groans. "Especially when negotiating."

"GET YOUR FILTHY FOOT OFF OF HER!" Slick demanded, trudging forward. Cody held him back.

"How cute, Fett." Grievous cooed mockingly. "The little clone is worried." Grievous pressed down harder. "I suggest you stay put, clone, or you'll discover how easy it is to flatten a skull."

"What do you want, Grievous?" Luminara hissed.

"I'm glad you asked." He chimed. "I want that projector!" Obi-Wan touched his pocket. "Hand it over, and the Padawan leaves with her head."

"Don't…even…" Tanya heaved. She glared to Slick, "Slick…I swear…don't- GRR-HAA!" Grievous pressed down again. Tanya pierced her fingernails into the carpet.

"Not that, Kenobi, is unwise." Grievous grinded his foot. Blood spilled over Tanya's face.

"Alright! Stop!" Obi-Wan pulled the projector from his pocket. "It's yours." He tossed it to Grievous' feet. "Now let her go."

"With pleasure." Grievous removed his foot from Tanya's head, then stomped the projector into pieces. He then glanced down to Tanya. "Thank you for your services." Tanya bared her teeth. The cruiser returned. Grievous stepped over her and jumped on. "Until next time, Fett." Tanya managed to push her upper body up. "I'll be sure to tell Count Dooku you said hi."

"Tell him I hope he chokes on that HI-ACK!" She coughed. Grievous simply laughed at her and closed the hatch. The cruiser and the remaining droid aircrafts treated into space. Submarines darted through the water, returning to the abyssal waters to be picked up at a later time. "Stupid…" Tanya brought a knee under her, "Droid…" Her arms quaked as she pushed herself on her knees. "ARGH!" She clenched onto her ribs.

Luminara leapt over to her. Meanwhile, Obi-Wan – force lifting Slick to him – tended to the wounded clones. He called for an emergency pickup for Hailster.

Tanya writhed on the ground, holding her ribs tightly. Flaming hot pain needled straight through the bone. Sweat fell down on her brow. Luminara gently eased her to lay her out flat. Tanya breathed deep but short. Her torso was so sore, breathing killed her. Luminara placed two hands onto the ribs and lightly pressed. "ERCK! HN!"

"I don't believe this." Luminara hissed.

"How is she?" Obi-Wan asked.

"The injury to her ribs has returned." She announced, almost scolding Tanya. "Only this time one might be broken."

"I thought the medical droid cleared her!"

"He warned her to TAKE-IT-EASY!"

Tanya smiled weakly and guiltily, "Whoops." She rasped.

[(+)]

After the palace was cleared of Separatists, the Rodian's scoured the palace for all injured and or deceased, gathering them up. The Council heatedly discussed the evening's events, fearful as to when the next attack would come. Waxer and Boil reported to Cody and Obi-Wan, declaring the superficial sweep clear and safe. The catacombs, courtesy of markers, were swept and deemed safe. The residence of the hospital wing were escorted back, desperately needing to be tended to. Meanwhile Padme and Jar-Jar were wheeled out to the landing pad, placed on either side of Tanya, who was being examined on the fly. Luminara stood over her, glaring disparagingly.

"Tell me something," She demanded. Tanya waved to Padme and Jar-Jar as they were wheeled off. "When were you going to tell us your ribs were bothering you?"

"They just…started…during my fight…with Grievous." She spoke slowly, forced to regulate her breathing. Luminara raised a skeptical brow, demanding Tanya not lie. "Honestly!" Her chest tightened. She cleared her throat. "They didn't even start…hurting until Grievous pounded at me."

"After everything that's happened, why would they hurt now?"

"It is because Grievous' deals heavy blows." Obi-Wan interjected. "The force of his blows, his height, plus the weight put severe pressure on you, what with you being organic."

"Gah…" She groaned. "Loss number 3." If she could move her arms, she would facepalm herself. "My reputation is shot!"

"You could be critically injured, and yet you're more concerned with your reputation?" Luminara shook her head derisively. "Forgive my ignorance."

"Pride and reputation are everything to a Hunter." Tanya elucidated strongly. "My reputation is damned by the losses, and my pride is bruised." Luminara poked her stomach sharply. "YOW! UH-HUH!"

"That is not the only thing bruised." She teased. Tanya glowered vengeful daggers.

"My goodness…" 3-PO gasped, hobbling with R2 next to him. "What a catastrophe!" Tanya leaned up on her elbows, hearing his voice. "Those Separatists are always making a mess of things."

"WHERE THE HELL – COUGH, COUGH – HAVE YOU TWO BEEN?" The Examiner pushed Tanya back down, wishing to finish the examination.

"We were in the hangar."

Tanya shot up again, "THIS WHOLE TIME? OW!" She hugged her ribs. "GAH-HA!" She plopped back down.

"Well you didn't expect us to fight, did you?"

"Man if I could hit you!"

"Her injuries must not be too serious." Hailster laughed, being wheeled onto the Republic cruiser. "She can still make threats."

"Promises, Hail! I make promises!" The two chuckled a little bit.

"Speaking of injuries," Luminara looked to the examiner who had finished, "How is she?"

"There is bruising on the bottom ribs." She informed the two masters. "New and old. Anymore force and they would have broken." She erected a commanding finger to Tanya. "You need to rest and relax for at least three weeks. Anything strenuous and you could suffer from long term damage."

"Great…" Tanya moaned. "Two weeks of sitting on my ass only to be put back on it."

"And you have our most heartfelt condolences." Tanya's tails frizzed. Pushing up on her elbows, Tanya snarled rabidly as Dod, Tuuk, and Canay approached with smug grins. "We wish you a speedy recovery, Ms. Fett."

"I'm sure you do." Tanya remarked bitterly.

"How convenient you three appear as the commotion dies down." Obi-Wan insinuated. "And when the evidence of your guilt is demolished."

"Guilt?" Dod feigned innocence. Tanya's tail spasmed with an itch. "To what do you refer?"

"You know exactly what he's talking about!" Tanya lurched forward, holding her ribs. "We may no longer be able to prove it, but you set this whole thing up."

Dod's grin widened. "I'm afraid you are incorrect, my dear." He denied again. "Gunray is the one who orchestrated this." He gestured a hand to his colleagues, "My colleagues and I are coerced victims of circumstance." Luminara rolled her eyes. "To prove our sincerity, we have released Rodia from the binds of our contract. They are now free to join whomever they please. You may record this conversation if you wish."

Tanya sucked on her lips, bobbing her head touchily. "Alright…Alright…" She remarked in defeat. "We'll play your little game." Swinging her legs around, she touched to the ground. Her legs gave way for a moment. Luminara caught her. Tanya nodded that she was fine. "Gunray orchestrated this, we're all victims, and now we move on. Trade Federation is not involved." Hobbling slowly she marched to Dod, glaring him straight in the eye. "But mark my words," She rumbled quietly, "Just like today, you will slip up. You will make a mistake. And the minute you do, you and everyone involved will be brought down."

Dod leaned in, gazing defiantly into her eyes. "What makes you so sure we'll slip?"

"You did today." She boasted.

"But you can no longer prove it." Tanya scoffed, steadily becoming aggravated. "As I told you, you know not the game you play." His voice reverberated. "So I suggest you tread carefully. Dangerous pieces are in play." He narrowed his eyes, grinning proudly. "And more than half of them work for me."

"I'm more than aware of the game being played." She grabbed him by the collar, bringing his ear to her mouth. "Which is why I warn you." She growled. "You may have eyes and ears lying about on selected planets, but my eyes and ears extend everywhere there is life." She shoved him away. Tuuk and Canay caught him as he stumbled backwards. "So you tread carefully," She warned ominously, "And enjoy your flight home." She cursed him.

Tuuk and Canay escorted Dod back inside, not wanting him to say anything he'd regret. Tanya leaned on her stretcher, cradling her ribs as they throbbed in pain. Reaching into her pocket she produced 50 credits and slapped them into Obi-Wan's hand. He bowed his head with victory. Luminara then flicked her in the ear, reminding her to take it easy. Senator Farr then meandered over, wishing to bid his final farewell.

"You say bye to Padme?" Tanya wondered.

"She and Jar-Jar both." He answered happily. "I wish to bid you three a fond farewell, and thank you all for your help."

"Our pleasure." Obi-Wan bowed.

"We hope you all recover after this escapade." Luminara wished.

"Physically we will. Mentally may take a while."

"First step…" Tanya heaved, "Admit it happened." She waved a hand, "The rest will fall neatly into place."

"Speaking from experience, I see." Farr chortled. Tanya winked. "Take care friends." Farr wished. "Perhaps we will see each other soon."

"I hope so." Tanya climbed back onto the stretcher. "I need somebody to back me up when Mace lays into me."

Far cocked a confused brow, unsure of her meaning. "She means Master Windu is going to be mad at her." Luminara clarified.

"Why would he be mad at you?"

"Because my ribs were busted two weeks ago. The minute he learns I hurt them again…" She shuddered, "He'll ground me for a month. And I can't stay in one place for a whole month."

"Well…from what I overheard…" Farr hummed pensively, "The M.E decreed you bed ridden for a few weeks."

"Noo…" She stressed, "She said to take it easy for a few weeks."

"Regardless, you are not to engage in strenuous activity." Farr patted her head. "Meaning you are stuck in one place." Tanya grumbled under her breath. "Get well soon." Farr bowed to the Jedi masters and then excused himself. "Why must people pet me like I'm a house pet?"

"It's the ears." Chopper chuckled, disembarking from the cruiser. "Everyone loves the ears." He ruffled her hair, "They're so cute." Tanya launched a swift punch into his kidney. "OOF!"

"DON'T PET ME! OW!" She collapsed onto the stretcher.

"No strenuous activity." Luminara reminded her smugly. "Must we stamp the reminder to your forehead?"

"Tattoo it. I'll forget anyway."

"Then we'll have no choice but to alert Mace and Lady Milan of your injuries."

Tanya's ears flared. "NOT MILAN! SHE'LL FLIP! OW-WOW!"

Luminara smiled victoriously. "Then behave."

Tanya folded her arms and pouted in defeat, "My reputation…damned by Jedi, Droid, and Bald Assassin." She plowed her hands into her face, "I am finished."

That's all for now. Working on Transformer's fic now.

Zabuzasgirl – your Hondo chapter will come. I promise.