I want to give big thanks to the author known as DFM23 for giving me permission to use some story ideas from his story, Rise of the Wraith, such as this one. So credit and thanks goes to him for this. Check out his story Rise of the Wraith if you haven't read it, it's a great Ahsoka/OC story.
DFM23 also gave me permission to use words from his story, by the way. He only asked that I don't make the romance in this story a carbon copy of his own. Which I understand.
Answers to reviews:
C.E.W: Well, when the Mandalorians find out who Jayden is and who he's conencted to by name and blood, they are gonna be pissed considering the history between the Shan family and Mandalore, which I think started because Revan took the mask of a Mandalorian warrior.
Lelouch-Strife: Well, I had to show that Jayden can live up to the name of Sith and be Dark.
Spiral-Voltron-Zero0Q1: Well, never said this was a children's story.
pittsacee: I'll think about it.
Tibrin was a semi-aquatic world. A world lined with massive reefs and crystal blue oceans. Home of the Ishi Tib, Tibrin had been a member of the Galactic Republic for the longest time.
And for almost as equally long, Premier Suribran Tu had ruled Tibrin with an iron hand.
He was nothing short of a dictator, heartless and merciless. Using whatever means necessary to maintain his power, either through assassinations or simple executions, Suribran managed to remain so for so long simply because the Republic supported his regime. How that worked, no one truly knew. But given the increasing levels of corruption being found within the Senate, one wouldn't have to look far to find the backers of the Premier's ruthless government.
This was something Count Dooku was intent on either using for his own benefit or changing to sway the population.
Given the importance of having bases of operation as far reaching as they could, Tibrin was of great strategic value to the Separatists. Count Dooku believed he could sway Premier Tu to his cause with a few well-worded promises. The Premier was a man who favored power, if the Separatists could bring forth a stronger show of might than the Republic, control of Tibrin would be theirs. But there was one other reason for the Separatists to move on Tibrin: the Ishi Tib wished to join the Confederacy, obviously fed up with those who supported their tyrant of a leader. In fact, the people had recently attempted to revolt against the Premier, only for Suribran Tu to strong-arm the people into submission.
If Tu would not fall willingly, than the Separatists could support the people to take him down.
It was in this state of affairs that Dooku arrived on Tibrin with an entourage consisting of his own Sith Acolytes. Among them included Kadrian Sey, Sora Bulq and Tol Skorr, fallen Jedi whom Dooku himself had swayed to the Dark Side.
The Separatists landed on a public landing pad, simply becuase the Palace of the Premier did not have one. When they disembarked the shuttle, they did not expect the incredible welcome the Ishi Tib bestowed upon them. Crowds of locals cheered on the Separatist leaders as they disembarked, treating them as though they were conquering heroes who had come to their aid.
In a way, they had.
The collective made their way through the crowds at a rather slow pace. Fortunately, battle droids were present to flank them and provide some manner of distance from the crushing crowds. The arrival of Count Dooku and his entourage was something of a big deal.
No doubt word would reach the Premier.
The Separatists walked towards the palace, almost as if they were parading before the masses. A symbol of hope for a better tomorrow, one free of a ruthless dictator.
From a balcony on his palace, Suribran Tu watched with a sense of unease as his subjects hailed the arriving Separatists, welcoming them with open arms and joyous spirits. Such sentiments could easily result in his dethronement. Tu was a man who enjoyed power, the kind of man who wouldn't give up his prominence without a fight. The presence of Count Dooku troubled him greatly. He was a man who commanded attention, his very presence radiated with power... a power not even Tu could best. Dooku's supremacy would more than likely lead to Tu's downfall and him being removed from power... or even worse.
But Suribran Tu was a crafty man. He hadn't stayed in power this long by relying on good luck.
Perhaps, if there was a way to get on Dooku's good side, being open and reasonable and accepting of whatever the Count asked, he might just be able to retain his power and keep his regime alive under a Separatist banner instead of a Republic one.
That brought forth another issue: Tu's loyalty to the Republic.
Of course, Tu was not one to remain in any one place for very long. He followed the balance of power wherever it shifted. He didn't care whose feet he stepped on or whose head rolled, just so long as wherever he went continued to serve his ambitions. Until now, the Republic had been the only governmental power in the galaxy.
But with the Separatists on the rise... that fact may be subject to change.
He had to play this carefully. Forge an alliance that would benefit him without making any enemies.
No one wanted to be on the bad side of either faction.
The Premier ordered one of his aides to go and welcome the Separatist entourage. He had better prove himself to be a good host, first impressions were everything. But there was one other issue he had to deal with. He was in the midst of entertaining a Senator, Padme Amidala of Naboo. The sudden, unexplained arrival of a Separatist entourage did not bode well... unless somehow he could play the victim.
Tu sighed. It appeared he had his work cut out for him.
Dooku waited politely in the meeting room the Premier's servant had escorted them to. Flanked by his acolytes, Dooku sat at the head of a table with his three allies behind him. They didn't need to wait long before the Premier himself arrived.
"Greetings Count Dooku. I was unprepared for your surprise visit." The Ishi-Tib dictator greeted them, putting on his best smile.
"It was a late decision, I assure you, Premier. Had I more time I would've informed you of our coming arrival." The old man lied.
"Please, Count, refer to me however you wish. There is no need for formalities." Suribran told him, sitting down to Dooku's left. "But I must ask, what do the Separatists want from Tibrin?"
"The answer is simple, Premier. Your world is in a strategically beneficial location as it is near the front-lines of the Clone Wars. We should like to construct a base from where we can house our forces until they are needed." Dooku explained.
"What you ask is impossible, because Tibrin is a world aligned with the Republic." Suribran shook his head in mock disappointment.
"Ah, but perhaps we can convince you otherwise." Dooku responded with a slight smile on his face. "The Separatists offer superior technology and superior politics. All you'd have to do is renounce your allegiance to them and shake hands with me." This was the moment Tu had been worried about. He had assumed from the beginning that Count Dooku wanted something from him, but the Premier was hesitant to make a hasty decision. Sure, the Separatists were a growing power in the galaxy. But to turn his back on the Republic
"Perhaps this situation requires more... deliberation." Suribran cautiously replied. "Not that I don't trust your judgement Count Dooku, but I have been well off with the Republic all this time. I simply cannot leave them now."
"No you can't Premier." Another voice added. Turning to the doorway, Count Dooku was slightly surprised to see Senator Padme Amidala enter the meeting room.
"Senator Amidala, what a pleasant surprise." He cordially greeted her, but was internally bothered by her presence. She could very well interfere with his plans. "You did not tell me you had a guest, Premier." Suribran quickly searched for an appropriate response to keep him out of hot water.
"As you have said, Count, your arrival was rather sudden." He quickly explained. Dooku nodded in understanding. Padme moved to sit across from the Sith, placing Suribran right between the two representatives. He felt more than a little torn.
"Indeed it was." Padme mused. "We were unaware of your arrival and would've prepared Tibrin more properly for such an occasion."
"By 'properly' I assume you would've brought along a company of Clone Troopers."
"Tibrin is a Republic world, we would do whatever was necessary to ensure it did not fall into Separatist hands." Padme responded, her gaze had turned hard and unflinching. She would show Count Dooku he was attempting to convert the wrong planet, that this world would never fall like countless others already had.
"Has the Republic truly accepted ruthless tyrants into its fold? Perhaps the corruption of the senate runs deeper than first thought." Dooku shot back.
"I am not a tyrant, Count." Tu interjected, acting appalled by the accusation. "My people fare as well as they do because of my leadership."
"If that is the case, why do they so eagerly accept us upon our arrival? Surely citizens loyal to the Republic would rather snub Separatist arrivals." Dooku replied, questioning the Premier. Suribran grew nervous. Dooku appeared to be fully aware of his activities in order to maintain power. What else did the Sith know? The thought troubled him greatly.
"Premier Tu has been a long time support of the galactic senate, Count Dooku." Padme stated. "The Republic will defend Tibrin by any means necessary."
"I would assume those are fighting words Senator," Dooku responded, "words that would initiate another chapter in the Clone Wars, one I am confident the Separatists will emerge from triumphant."
"Senator, Count, I must insist we avoid all possible hostilities. I do not want my people to have to face the Clone Wars." The Premier pleaded, trying to play moderator. Dooku quickly analyzed the current situation. He knew exactly what kind of man Suribran was and therefore knew how to make him play right into Separatist hands. As long as he was backed by the Republic, he felt safe. The balance of power was on his side. But if the balance were to tip...
"If war is not the answer... then perhaps a contest could benefit us better, Premier." He suggested. Suribran faced Dooku with piqued curiosity, as did Senator Amidala.
"You have my attention, Count Dooku. What did you have in mind?" Tu inquired. Dooku began to explain his suggestion.
"A simple bloodsport event. One-on-one, hand-to-hand combat. The winner will prove their superiority to you and thus the more powerful faction." His plan made Padme raise an eyebrow. Bloodsport? Since when had Dooku ever used such a means to achieve victory? The Sith preferred to use his words and charisma to sway the opinions of potential allies. "You wish to ally with those who could back you even further, correct?" Tu grew fearful, Dooku knew part of his plan. Was he truly that readable?
"You speak the truth. As long as the Republic will commit to this contest, I see every reason to make this event happen." He cautiously replied, turning to Padme. The senator looked straight at Dooku.
"This plan is most unlike you, Dooku. What are you playing at?" She asked.
"My dear Senator, I simply wish to maintain the best interests of the Ishi-Tib. If they do not wish to face war, then we will not give them one." Dooku smoothly replied.
"How noble of you." Padme dryly muttered. "On behalf of the Republic, I accept your suggestion and will contact Coruscant to inform them of these developments."
"Very good." Dooku responded with a pleased smile. "Please ask them to send their most formidable General to represent the Republic. Premier, when should you like to host this contest?"
"We will have it tomorrow, in the throne room." Tu decided. "The sooner we can avoid war, the better."
"Excellent. We shall face each other tomorrow then, Senator." Dooku replied as he stood up. "I bid you farewell until then." Turning about, Dooku motioned for his acolytes to join him as they left the room.
"I will have a servant direct you to your quarters!" Tu called after them. The four Separatists left the room without another word, the door automatically shutting behind them.
"This is rather troublesome." Padme quietly mused. "Dooku has never chosen bloodsport as a means to peace. I fear he has some scheme in mind that we have... unwittingly fallen for."
"He tried to promise me a better life outside the Republic." The Premier informed her. "I was feeling very under fire until your timely arrival."
"Do not fall for his serpent's tongue, Premier. Dooku is crafty with his words, but has only ill-intent on his mind." Padme cautioned him. "Which makes me wonder what exactly is going on that would make him suggest a tournament over diplomatic discussions." Having been involved in every kind of political foray, from scandals to betrayals, Padme knew a plot when she saw one. Problem was, she had no idea what kind of plot this was. And it made her very edgy.
Dooku, on the other hand, was considering the prime candidate to defeat the Republic in such a way that Suribran's greed would get the better of him. He was seeking someone to display such incredible power that the Premier would easily fall for the Separatist cause.
"I have no doubt the Republic will send Anakin Skywalker to represent them," he mused, "which means we will need an equal display of great power... we will need our own champion."
"Use one of us, my lord." Sora requested. "We can combat the Jedi with ease."
"No. I do not want to risk the possibility of Skywalker beating you." Dooku replied, much to the chagrin Sora and the other acolytes. "I have someone in mind... contact Darth Khan, tell him he is to leave Mygeeto and come to Tibrin immediately."
Later that night...
A Republic shuttle delivered more than one 'champion' to Tibrin. When Padme had explained the situation and Dooku's suggestion of a bloodsport tournament, Chancellor Palpatine was more than a little concerned by the development. In response, he sent a rather impressive entourage of Republic representatives, including: Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ahsoka Tano, Captain Rex and Commander Gree. All of which were here to represent a united front against the Separatists. Palpatine had specifically asked Anakin to represent the Republic in this contest, believing the Chosen One could conquer any foe the Separatists sent his way.
And he had... so far.
Padme was waiting for them on the landing pad, along with a pair of the Premier's royal guards. Anakin was the first to disembark, Ahsoka right behind him.
"Senator. Always good to see you." Anakin greeted her with a small smile which Padme returned.
"Likewise, Master Jedi. On behalf of the Republic, I must thank you for being willing to participate in this contest."
"No worries. But I can't help but wonder what Dooku's game is."
"A sentiment we both share." Padme nodded in agreement. "Something is afoot, that much is for sure."
"Whatever it is, I'm sure we'll stop him. We always do." Ahsoka stated with a smirk.
"That we do Snips." Anakin agreed. "I'm sure it's nothing to worry about Senator. We're here to protect Tibrin and that's exactly what we plan to do." He confidently told his wife. The rest of the Republic exited the shuttle and were escorted to where they would be staying for the night, not giving Dooku's plan another thought. Everyone was confident they had the manpower and the means to defeat any Separatist plot...
Elsewhere
On another area of the planet, Count Dooku waited on a small, flat island as the Rogue Shadow landed in front of Dooku and his Acolytes. The ship's ramp then lowered and out came Jayden Shan, or Darth Khan as the galaxy knew him as.
He had changed his attire from the Jedi Hunter armour, an outfit he wore as an Apprentice, and was now dressed in Revan's robes. He had even taken Revan's purple Lightsaber as well, now he had two. His crossguard red Lightsaber, and Revan's purple Lightsaber. (AN: Jayden's appearance is the story picture cover.)
"Master." Jayden bowed once he got off the ship.
"Rise, Lord Khan." Dooku beckoned him with a hand and Jayden stood. "I trust you understand the reason i called you here?"
Jayden nodded. "Yes. I look forward to battling whoever the republic has chosen to represent them."
"I have no doubt it will be young Skywalker." Dooku mused. "You've met him once before. This time, he will be ready for you once he passes the surprise of seeing you here."
"I will not fail, Master." Jayden promised with a clenched fist in emphasis that made Dooku smirk.
Soon, the Republic will no longer have control of this world...
Suribran's throne room was quite packed the following morning. Servants and guards lined the edges of the steps before him while the Republic banded together along the far left wall, facing off against the Separatists on the opposite side of the room. Out of all of them, only Commander Gree was not present. Fearing some element of sabotage, the Jedi chose to have him stay behind and guard the shuttle. A level of tension hung in the air as the two opposing factions stared each other down. Admittedly, the Republic did outnumber the Separatists by a few extra members.
But what they lacked in numbers, the Separatists made up for with power. A power that had yet to enter the room.
The premier himself was a little late arriving. Suribran had not slept well, racked with constant worry and dread over what the events of the coming day would result in. Forgoing any fancy dress, Premier Tu arrived wearing similar clothes to what he wore yesterday. Taking a seat on his throne, Suribran nervously cleared his throat and found his voice.
"Members of the Galactic Republic and Confederacy of Independent Systems, I thank you for coming at such an early hour." He greeted them. "But now we shall begin this contest of strength, to see who shall prove the mightier ally of the Ishi-Tib and is worthy of our allegiance. I must also thank you all for agreeing to such terms and making an effort to avoid bringing the Clone Wars here. Know that my people and I are grateful." With the formalities over with, Suribran cleared his throat once more. Senator Amidala had informed him earlier that Anakin Skywalker was to represent the Republic, but Count Dooku had not given him the name of his representative yet. Suribran wondered what he would say... "Fighting on behalf of the Republic: Jedi General Anakin Skywalker!" Each member of the group applauded as Anakin stepped forward, a confident smirk on his face.
"Go get 'em General!" Rex encouraged.
"Don't I always, Rex?" Anakin remarked. Stepping into the middle of the throne room, Anakin sized up the villains before him. "Alright Dooku, who's your best man?" Anakin called to the Separatists, half-expecting the Sith himself to step forward and draw his lightsaber. "Heh, none of you Separatists would be stupid enough to fight me." He quietly mused with a small smile.
Dooku smirked. "May I introduce my chosen fighter?" Dooku asked Suriban, who hesitantly nodded. "I present to you all... Darth Khan!"
Dooku smirked at the reactions on the faces of the Republic.
Dooku's Acolytes parted to let the Sith pass them and stand beside Dooku, his gaze already locked on Skywalker but Jayden took the quick time to look over the rest of the Republic's forces. there was Obi-Wan Kenobi, Captain Rex, Padme Amidala, Commander Gree and...
Ahsoka Tano.
She had changed a lot since he last saw her all that time ago.
She was now wearing a full-body top that ended in the middle of her thighs, made to look like a skirt with the belt and sash she wore. He was curious as to the origin of the design, as a diamond shaped window displayed part of her chest. It was also backless. She now wore dark grey leggings with a series of diamond holes running down the sides of her legs and also sported brown bands around her bisceps. Her montrals appeared larger and longer, denoting an older and more mature appearance, compared to the last time he saw her. Also, not one but two lightsaber hilts were clipped to her belt, signifying her advanced proficiency in combat.
'Looks like we both changed since we last saw each other.' Jayden thought to himself.
"Win this, Lord Khan." Dooku ordered.
"Yes, my Master." Jayden nodded before he came down to stand across from Anakin.
"The rules of engagement are simple: no-holds barred, last man standing wins. Anything goes." Suribran announced, slightly uncertain as to how to start this contest. "Round one, begin!"
Jayden activated his red Lightsaber, as Anakin activated his blue one. The two circled each other, Anakin unable to tell Jayden's expression due to the mask he wore. Anakin charged first but Jayden gave him a Force push, knocking Anakin off his feet as Jayden ran at him, shooting lightning from his hand but Anakin was quick to roll out the way as Jayden tried stabbing him with his Lightsaber. Anakin got to his feet and the two circled each other again.
"That all you got?" Anakin taunted.
Jayden scoffed. "I haven't even gotten started yet."
The two charged and their Sabers collided into a Saber lock. Jayden pushed back before he quickly blasted Anakin with Force Lightning, causing Skywalker to yell in pain as he fell to a knee, allowing Jayden to back hand him then deliver a good punch across the face. Jayden then delivered a spinning kick right into the side of Anakin's head, knocking him down but not out cold. Anakin groaned before he rolled out the way to avoid being sliced by Jayden's Lightsaber. Anakin blocked and deflected Jayden's next strike and got to his feet.
"Sloppy." Jayden commented as they circled. "Do you Jedi not even think to master hand to hand combat? What if you lose that Lightsaber and have Force-restraints on you?"
"Oh shut up." Anakin growled before he charged fourth and their Sabers collided one again.
"Careful, Skywalker, anger is not the Jedi way, is it?" Jayden taunted with a smirk underneath his mask. "I sense great fear in you, Skywalker. You have hate... you have anger... but you don't use them."
Anakin gritted his teeth and pushed forward but Jayden pushed back before he kicked Anakin in the chest, causing Skywalker to clutch his stomach but he was quick to block Jayden's next attck then deliver a punch to the masked face of Jayden. Anakin grunted as he looked at his hand.
"Are you stupid?" Jayden asked with a raised eyebrow under the mask before he used the Force to throw Anakin into the wall then slam him down on the floor before bringing him closer to him as Jayden twirled his Lightsaber around. But once Jayden let up, Anakin was quick to use to Force to send Jayden into the ceiling then slam him down to the floor.
"How's that for stupid?" Anakin asked with a smirk as he ran and lunged at Jayden who just got serious and blocked Anakin's attack. Then maneuvered around him, delivering a elbow to the back of Skywalker's head before he went for a Force push just as Anakin did and it sent the two flying back from each other, their Lightsabers rolling out of hand. Anakin went for his but Jayden Force jumped over to Anakin and delivered a punch to his spine, causing Anakin to yell in pain.
"And what did I say about if you lose that Lightsaber?" Jayden asked sarcastically befor ehe gripped Anakin's hands to stop him from using the Force then delivered a headbutt to Anakin, followed by a right hook across the face, then he slammed his knee into Anakin's face, sending blood flying from Anakin's mouth due to the knee connecting with Anakin's chin. Jayden then spun and delivered a backhand that sent Anakin rolling across the floor.
"That had to hurt." Obi-Wan commented.
Anakin spat blood out his mouth and gave his Master a look. "No, really?" he asked sarcastically before he was grabbed by the ankle and dragged along the floor before Jayden delivered a punch into his leg, causing Anakin to yell in pain before he tried a Force push but Jayden had thrusted his hands out at the same time and now both were in a battle of Force pushing as Anakin managed to make it to his feet but both ended up flying backwards, however Jayden managed to land on his feet and used the Force to call his Lightsaber to him then he ran and leaped at Anakin who quickly called his own Lightsaber over, activated it and managed to block Jayden's kill attempt.
Anakin gritted his teeth as he tried pushing Jayden off him but the Sith was steadily pushing the Sabers down. Anakin yelled as he pushed back with all his strength and managed to push Jayden back a step, enough for Anakin to make it to his own feet as the two continued their Saber lock.
"You're going down, Sith!" Anakin spat with a glare.
Jayden tilted his head. "We shall see."
With that, Jayden delivered a kick right between Anakin's legs, causing many spectators to wince, including Ahsoka.
"I felt that one." Rex commented.
Jayden then delivered a hard headbutt, followed by a roundhouse kick that struck his midsection. Anakin was downed almost immediately, cracking his skull against the hard floor as he was laid out.
Ahsoka winced, that would surely leave a mark.
Anakin groaned in pain as he tried to push himself up. "Y-You... you're different from Ventress and Dooku." Anakin grunted.
Jayden tilted his head. "How so, Skywalker?"
"there... there's light and darkness within you." Anakin said, having sensed it. "But either way... you're a Sith and will be destroyed!"
Jayden leaned back to avoid Anakin's punch attempt and delivered a punch to the ribcage of Anakin, then caught his right arm and with a swing of his Lightsaber... he chopped off Anakin's robotic arm.
Ahsoka gasped with eyes wide as Obi-Wan's eyes widened.
Dooku smiled evilly at the sight, oh how he remembered when he did the same thing to Skywalker's real arm at the very beginning of the Clone Wars.
"Need a hand, Skywalker?" Jayden taunted as he looked the robotic arm over. "I think I'll keep this as a trophy, proof that the Jedi's 'Chosen one' is not indestructible and is just a man."
"So are you." Anakin said as he used his left arm to hold his Lightsaber. But with the pain came a sudden resurgence as Anakin found within him the determination to end this.
With a growl, Anakin struck with hard, vicious swings of his Lightsaber, Jayden parrying each with his Lightsaber. Throwing his strength into another downward slash, the blue blade connected with the red blade as Jayden warded him off, bending his knees as he took the full weight of Anakin's blow before he smirked and sed Anakin's prosthetic to smack him across the face, sending Skywalker to his knees and dropping his Lightsaber. Jayden kicked Anakin onto his back and stood over him before he brought the arm down repeatedly, sending blood flying.
Jayden then dropped the prosthetic and stepped back as Anakin groaned, his face bruised and bloodied as he tried getting to his feet. Once he did, he was met with a uppercut from his opponent, sending Anakin sprawling across the ground. The Republic collectively winced.
"Impressive work, Lord Khan!" Dooku applauded.
"Yeah, take him down a few more notches!" Kadrian added, also applauding.
'I intend to.' Jayden thought as he clenched his fists, feeling the Dark Side in him before he unleashed Force Lightning from his free hand onto Anakin, causing the 'Chosen one' to scream in pain. Jayden didn't halt or anything as he wanted to make sure the Republic would hear the screams of the one they think is destined to destroy the Sith.
"Anakin, hold on! We'll help you!" Obi-Wan called, reaching for his lightsaber.
"You cannot, Master Kenobi!" Dooku called, gaining Obi-Wan's attention. "If you interfere in this one-on-one fight, then the Republic loses. This will only end if one of them submits or dies."
"And if I were you, Skywalker, I'd submit right now." Jayden growled as he increased the intensity of his Force Lightning, causing Anakin to scream louder in pain.
Padme choked back a sob and turned away as Ahsoka watched on with concern, wishing she can do something.
Then, Jayden stopped. He walked closer to Anakin's twitching form and looked him over, all was silent save for the sound of Jayden's unstable, crackling Lightsaber. Jayden gave a light kick to Anakin's ribs which made him groan in pain.
"Still alive, huh?" Jayden said as he tiwlred his Lightsaber around and raised it. "I'll easily rectify that."
He then brought the Lighstaber down, when Anakin managed to use the Force to activate his own and block Jayden's strike, causing the Sith's eyes to widen in shock and he looed to see Anakin with an angry expression on his face. Jayden was pushed back by Anakin who made it to his feet, clutching his Lightsaber tightly in his right hand and he pointed the Lightsaber at him with a fierce glare.
"Alright then." Jayden muttered before he lunged and went for an attack but Anakin blocked it and used hsi right arm, despite the missing hand, and smacked Jayden across the head, making the Sith stumble a bit. Anakin then delivered a kick to Jayden's right shoulder, then spun and backhanded him across his masked face with his entire right arm.
"That's it General, you've got him!" Rex cheered.
"Yeah! Way to go Skyguy!" Ahsoka applauded. But Jayden recovered in seconds, slowly turning back to face Anakin, the blows hurting no more than a simple puff of air.
Anakin threw Jayden back with the Force, then tore up a piece of the flor and sent it into Jayden which smashed him into the ground. Anakin used the Force with his only hand to lift more debris over Jayden who was getting to a knee when a shadow overcame him and he looked up in time for the debris to fall onto him hard.
"That had to hurt!" Ahsoka called with a smirk.
"My... M-My floor..." Suribran muttered, none too pleased with the necessary repairs that would be required.
"Sorry Premire," Anakin breathed, looking significantly worse for wear, "Now then, why don't we-" He was interrupted by the shifting of the debris as it moved. Everyone watched, the Republic with wide eyes, Dooku and his Acolytes with smirks, as the debris lifted to reveal Jayden had used the Force to stop it from completely crushing him. Jayden stared straight at Anakin as he dropped the debris behind him.
"That was just amusing." Jayden commented before he Force dashed and struck in the blink of an eye and slashed Anakin across his chest with his Lightsaber, causing Anakin to yell in pain as he fell down, his chest armour smoking from the Lightsaber strike. Jayden then delivered a kick to Anakin's face, knocking him out cold. Jayden looked down at Anakin before he spoke loudly to the Republic. "Be very thankful I knocked him out instead of ending his miserable existence."
"Perhaps it is time to call a winner." Dooku said with a pleased smile at the fight. His Apprentice was strong and powerful, enough to match the Jedi's chosen one. Dooku knew he chose well when taking Jayden on as his Apprentice and one day... they will overthrow Darth Sidious and rule the Sith and the galaxy.
Jayden stared at the Republic and pointed his Lightsaber at them. it was merely to get his message across: You're next.
Jayden deactivated his Lightsaber and clipped it to his belt as he walked away to his Master's side.
"Premier, I believe it is time to announce the victor of this contest." Count Dooku told Tu, more than pleased with the results. The Republic were already kneeling by Anakin's knocked out form, taking in just how much damage Jayden had dealt.
"I-Indeed." Suribran stammered, overly stunned by the spectacular display of violence.
He would definitely need to have a servant clean the floor as soon as possible.
"The winner, by flawless victory, The Wraith! Representing the Confederacy of Independent Systems." The Premier announced. The Separatists applauded their hero, cheering on Darth Khan as he crossed his arms, feeling quite triumphant. The Republic made no response as all of them were tending to Anakin however they could.
He was a serious mess.
"Count Dooku, you have swayed me with this most impressive display." Suribran commented.
"I'm glad you see things from our point of view." Dooku politely responded.
Obi-Wan glared at them and reached for his Lightsaber, causing Jayden to reach for his. "Do you want to join Skywalker next, Kenobi? Believe me, I'd gladly give you the same treatment he got."
"Enough, Lord Khan." Dooku said and Jayden relaxed. "The Republic will honor the agreement. After all, they don't want to be known as a faction that doesn't honour their word. And anger and revenge is not the Jedi way, is it?"
The Republic was backed into a corner.
"Lord Khan, if you will. Dooku suddenly said. Jayden nodded and activated his Lightsaber before he spun and decapitated Suribran. The royal guards had no time to act and could only stare helplessly at the body of their leader. The Republic turned with a start and saw both the Premier's dead body and Jayden deactivating his red Lightsaber.
"What have you done, Dooku?!" Padme demanded with horror.
"As the saying goes, out with the old... in with the new." Jayden remarked, causing Dooku to chuckle.
"Suribran Tu ruled this world with an iron fist. He was a dictator that mercilessly oppressed his people, something the Republic has turned a blind eye to for too long. We are here to liberate the Ishi-Tib, and I should say we have done just that." At that moment, a pair of servants ran over to Dooku and Jayden, bowing before them and repeatedly thanking them for liberating them. Dooku instructed them both to gather all the people, he had a proclamation to make. "Go on home Senator. The Republic is no longer welcome here." Dooku dismissed Padme with a dark edge to his voice, as if prepared to act upon his threatening words. They slowly made to leave, Rex and Obi-Wan gingerly hoisting Anakin's body off the ground and carefully carrying him out. But as they turned to leave, Ahsoka looked back at Jayden with a determined fire in her eyes.
"I will avenge my master! Just you wait!" She declared, her voice hoarse with emotion. She glared at the Sith who brutally beat up her Master, who killed Korkie and those cadets she helped on Mandalore.
Jayden chuckled darkly as he watched Ahsoka leave but he called out loud enough for her to hear. "I look forward to the rematch from our last encounter, dear Ahsoka."
And this time, it will not end as it did in their last encounter...