Hello, everyone, and Merry Christmas! How are you all doing this fine holiday season? You get what you wanted from under the tree? I sure hope so. This is SuperHeroTimeFan, coming back to you this Holiday Season with a brand-new Chapter for Journey of the Knight: Honor Bound! I recently saw the new movie Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and it was awesome! Did any of you happen to see it? What did you think of it? I'm glad that I managed to get far with my newest Story, especially when I have all of you to thank for helping me come so far. My thanks goes out to MinuteMan76, MartyrFan, Jacqueline Karst, Logan GC, FusionBase27A, Ezra Wren, Ultimate Advent Story Dude VII, Eubulon Zenith Extreme, Geo Hikari The 2nd, Cycomatrix Eternal, Hay Lin x Tsukasa Kadoya, Ross Blum the IV, Rebel Sabine Bridger, HarmonyGirl567, Riku Soncazenosee, Dwayne McDuffie, Bowser3000000, animebella09, Slade The Terminator, High Supreme King Of Awesome, Tines Sensahthe, Ultra Neo Kamen Rider 15, Awesometacular Extravaganza, Spartan of Chaos, Neos the Final Builder, ToLegitt2Quit, Carlos Jacob, Outplace, TheGreatGodzilla, Darth Sicarius, AbbyDobbie, Maximus Potter, Darth Khan, Virgil1989 The Crossover King, and of course, all of the Guest Reviewers. I don't know where I would be on this Holiday to have come so far. Thank you all. Now, before I start on my newest Chapter, please allow me to address some of your reviews. First off, we have KGuest. I understand what you are saying about having more independence for the Young Justice, and I'll keep that in mind. Next, we have Carlos Jacob. I will see what I can do to have characters from the Expanded Universe take an interest in Classic and Modern Earth movies. I plan to do a Story based on Kalifa before she joined the Neo Young Justice. For the others, I am not so sure. I haven't read the Catalyst Story yet, but it sounds interesting. I have seen Hoshino: Star Wars FanFilm on YouTube and I could do some events of what happened before the present events of the FanFilm. I will look into the Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Untold Stories, and see what I can do for them like I did with my version of The Bad Batch Arc. And thank you for enjoying my inclusion of Captain Panaka in my last Chapter. Now, with all reviews out of the way, and your presents unwrapped, here is my brand-new Chapter! Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, please be sure to enjoy!
Chapter 3: Truth Be Told…
In Memory of John Herschel Glenn Jr. (July 18th, 1921 – December 8th, 2016)
And…
In Memory of Craig Graham Sager, Sr. (June 29th, 1951 – December 15th, 2016)
Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.
A man of many mysteries! Following the fall of Gemini Rouge, Darth Maul has taken control of the DarkSiders, and has gained numerous new followers, including Komari Vosa of the LOST TWENTY. After a failed plot to gain an army of speedsters, Maul continues to elude the Young Justice. With the distribution of Velocity Nine stopped and Super Tank Armor collected, both good and evil forces plan their next move, but Darth Maul has his sights set on the Amazonian Princess of Themyscira, Wonder Woman. While his research into her is unknown to his enemies, he plots his next move. Now, we find our heroes back at the Jedi Temple after a well-deserved vacation on Naboo.
Ahsoka stood with Anakin, Kid Flash and Robin as they reported to the Jedi Council and Padmé. Ever since their discovery of the speed enhancer drug known as Velocity Nine on Naboo, they knew that there was more to the DarkSiders than it seemed.
"Based on what Jesse and I have discovered, Darth Maul was planning to put speedsters like me and her under his control," Kid Flash reported. "He used the Terrelian Trading Corps to distribute the V9 drug. Jesse and I were unaffected by its deadly effects, but I can't say the same for the rest of the people who might have had a taste of it."
"This is most disturbing," Padmé said. "I will address the Senate about this matter and ensure that all Planets are secured in case the DarkSiders conduct any more of these experiments," she said. "My Planet is not to be used as a testing ground."
"There's more," Anakin said. "We found out where Maul's base of operations is. It's on Mustafar."
"We will look into Mustafar and have any available Jedi try to take the base," Mace Windu said. "Hopefully, with the capture of a major leader of the DarkSiders, we can turn the tide of the War in our favor."
"We have to find out what Maul's next move is going to be before he makes it." Ahsoka said.
All of a sudden, sudden, a Jedi Temple Guard walked into the room.
"Forgive me for the interruption," the Jedi Temple Guard said. "But you are needed back on the Equinox by the Justice League."
"We'll be there once we're done with our debrief." Ahsoka said.
"I am afraid that this is urgent," the Jedi Temple Guard stated. "You are needed immediately."
Anakin nodded. "We'll be right there," he said before turning back to the Council and Padmé. "This will be quick."
"Take all the time you need." Obi-Wan said.
Ahsoka nodded before she, Anakin, Robin and Kid Flash made their way out of the room and towards the Equinox.
Meanwhile, Darth Maul was looking over all of Wonder Woman's fights from Earth-16. While her silver bracelets were her weapons of defense, he always noticed that she would use her Lasso whenever she captured and interrogated anyone. To add to that, she would always get the information she needed out from anyone the Lasso went around.
"This Lasso is quite a potent weapon," C-3PX mused as he and Gar Saxon watched the footage with Darth Maul. "What is your plan?"
"What is this weapon?" Maul asked.
"They call it the Lasso of Truth," Gar Saxon replied. "From what I have heard, even the people with the strongest will have fallen victim to it, and whoever is bound by the Lasso cannot lie."
"A civilization is built on lies," Maul said. "Even if toppled by its enemies, it can rise again… but if the truth topples it from the inside… is dead forever," he said. He placed his hand to his chin and turned around. "Prepare a squadron of seven soldiers," he ordered. "Tell them to plot a course for Scarif," he ordered. "I will take over from there."
"Right away, Lord Maul." Gar Saxon said as he walked off to ready the Death Watch Devils.
Back at Coruscant, Ahsoka, Anakin, Robin and Kid Flash were making their way from Coruscant up to the Equinox, where a familiar Weequay Saucer was rested inside of the Hangar Bay.
"Isn't that the Black Pearl?" Robin asked.
"That means only one thing," Ahsoka said as the Gunship landed inside of the Hangar Bay, where a crew of Weequay Pirates were waiting with the rest of the Young Justice. "Hondo."
As soon as the Gunship landed, Ahsoka, Anakin, Robin and Kid Flash walked out. The rest of the core members of the Young Justice flew towards the Hangar Bay as well, and Miss Martian and the rest of the Young Justice came out.
"My friends, my friends!" Hondo exclaimed as he walked up to the Young Justice. "It is so good to see you again!" he said as all of the Young Justice looked to him with confusion. "Thanks to your generous donation, I now have my base working again, and with Gemini gone, nothing could be better!" he said before turning to Ahsoka. "I am truly sorry for the loss of Sonia," he said sincerely. "She might have been a worthy opponent, but I knew she was always meant to be a Jedi!"
"Uh… thanks." Ahsoka said.
"And a twenty-one gun salute to your promotion to Jedi Knight!" Hondo exclaimed, causing everyone to gasp before he turned to his crew. "Fire at will!"
All of the Pirates cheered as the seven Weequays he brought with him stepped up, firing into the air at the same time. They did it two more times, firing off in their own version of a twenty-one gun salute.
"Thanks," Ahsoka said as she, Anakin and the rest of the Young Justice regained themselves, having shielded themselves from the blaster fire. "I'm honored."
"So, what brings you here?" Paula asked as she walked up, as did the Justice League Representatives. "I doubt you came here only to honor Ahsoka and Sonia."
"My single lady…" Hondo started out.
"Married Lady," Artemis corrected as stormed up and held up Paula's hand with the ring from Admiral Tarkin. "My Mom… and Admiral Wilhuff Tarkin."
"You are married now?" Hondo asked. "Oh, Sportsmaster will not be happy to hear about this."
"He doesn't know yet." Paula said.
"Well, that's one of the reasons why I am here," Hondo said. "The other reason is a treasure trove me and my crew came across."
"We are not paying you for the damages… again!" Lux exclaimed.
"Oh, no. I am not looking for you to give something to me…" Hondo corrected. "But for me… to give something to you."
The Young Justice looked to each other with confusion.
"Are we talking about the same Hondo who took Dooku hostage… and roofied my Masters?" Ahsoka asked.
"He managed to capture Count Dooku?" Miss Martian asked. "The Count Dooku? The same one who took Anakin's arm?"
"Yes, that one," Hondo replied. He turned around and walked towards his Ship as the rest of the Young Justice followed. "Walk with me," he said. "Not long ago, me and my men came across a Separatist Sheathipede-Class Shuttle heading for the Techno Union," he explained. "We discovered treasure among the Transport from a Planet from your Expanded Universe, most likely making its way to that greedy Wat Tambor."
"Which one?" Superboy asked. "We have a lot, like this Expanded Universe does."
"The one where the leader of your five Justice Leaguers." Hondo replied.
Dinah raised an eyebrow in confusion. "I…" she started out. "I don't come from another Planet."
"I was referring to the one with bright colors," Hondo said. "The more attractive one."
"Hey, wait a minute!" Dinah exclaimed offensively. "What's that supposed to mean?!"
"I think he's talking about me," Wonder Woman said as she stepped up. "But I don't come from another Planet."
"But the manifest says the cargo came from a place called Themyscira," Hondo said. "And since there is no place on Earth I have learned about called Themyscira, the cargo must come from another Planet."
"Themyscira is an Island," Wonder Woman said. She suddenly realized what Hondo was saying. "Wait," she said. "What do you mean that the cargo came from there?" she asked. "My people never make trade deals with anyone outside the Island."
"I have come to a conclusion that someone on this Island must be making deals with the Separatists," Hondo said before he looked to his men. "Unload the cargo!" he ordered.
All of the Weequay Pirates nodded and went inside of the Ship, taking out several crates.
"Let's see this." Katooni said as she sliced open the crates, revealing Themyscirian relics and metals. "Whoa," she said. "Hondo wasn't kidding."
"Of course," Hondo said as he knelt down to Katooni. "I am an honorable man now, thanks to you."
"All of this is from Themyscira," Wonder Woman said as she took out a sword with a crossguard in the shape of wings. She looked to another crate and took out a red shield with a blue inner border with gold stars decorated around it, as well as a red border outline and the same golden W on her suit. "How could all this have fallen into the hands of the Separatists?"
"More like the hands of the Light, and then the Separatists," Hondo said before a Weequay Pirate came out with someone behind him in the shadows. "These are all valuable, and belong to someone of Themyscira, but when I found someone in the cargo hold—"
"Some one?" Anakin asked. "You mean to say that the Separatists took someone from Themyscira to take to Wat Tambor?"
"I have a code of honor," Hondo said. "And that is that people are not cargo!" he said strictly. "I promised I would bring her to Diana…" he started out before looking to Wonder Woman. "And I intend to keep that promise."
"How did you know my name was…?" Wonder Woman started out.
"Canary's name is Dinah, and there are two women in the Justice League here," Hondo said. "That means that you are Diana."
Ahsoka grinned. "What do you know?" she spoke up. "Hondo's not only a pirate, but a detective too."
"No, that was just a sheer lucky guess," Hondo replied. "Now, you would think I would leave the girl to the Separatists… but I chose not to!" he declared. "She claims that where she comes from, her Father is a God, and if I did not deliver my end of the bargain, her Father would strike lightning down at me. As you know, I am quite cautious of people with power greater than mine, so be prepared for anything." He said.
"And you believe her?" Zatanna asked. "Well, Doctor Fate technically is the Lord of Order."
"Come on out, child," Hondo said. "Here is Princess Diana, as promised," he said as he motioned his hands to Diana. "Please, do not tell your Father to curse me."
"He won't," the girl said as she came out of the shadows. "I just wanted to make sure you kept your word."
Everyone looked to the girl. She was around eleven years old and had a slender yet muscular build, blue eyes and blonde hair in unkempt bangs, a black headband over her hair, a black sleeveless top, dark-red jeans and blue shoes.
"This is the daughter of a God?" Rocket asked.
"Her name is Cassandra," Hondo said. "Her Mother is Helena Sandsmark, and her Father… he's a God names Seuss."
"I think you mean Zeus," Serra said, causing everyone to turn to her. "Alright. I paid attention in Mythology Class. I know a thing or two about the Odyssey."
"Yes, well, I found her being held in the Shuttle," Hondo explained. "There were seventeen MagnaGuards at her feet, and she was chained against the wall. I'm telling you, she has the makings of a—"
"Say 'pirate', and we call off this parley." Connor said.
"I was going to say 'warrior'," Hondo said. "Anyways, as I said before, people are not cargo, so I took her and the cargo and came to you in hopes of making sure she is safe. I would go through the Vortex to bring her back myself, had those Vulture Droids not shown up to attack me and my crew."
"I say we could have stayed and took them on," Cassandra said. "I'm willing to go up against anyone stronger than me."
"You're crazy!" Barriss exclaimed.
"No, she's right," Hondo said. "When those Blade Runners came, she took them all out without any assistance. Even tossed a Droideka out of the Ship."
"She's strong, but she still needs training," Dinah said. "Perhaps she can—"
All of a sudden, the alarm went off.
"What's going on?" Cassandra asked.
"One of our bases is under attack," Tup explained as he ran over. "Maul and his Death Watch Commandos were spotted at Scarif."
"Not the new base!" Ahsoka exclaimed. "Let's go!"
"Hold on," Cassandra said as Robin turned to her. "I've been in the Expanded Universe for only three hours. What is going on?"
"I'll explain on the way," Ahsoka said as she turned to Cassandra. "Come on, Cassie!" she called out as she made her way towards the Bioship. She stopped and turned back. "Can I call you Cassie?"
"It fits," Wonder Woman said. "Now, let's go!"
The Equinox turned around from facing Coruscant and started to make the jump to Lightspeed. Soon, it went into Hyperspace and made its way to the Planet of Scarif.
On Scarif, Darth Maul was leading his Death Watch Devils against the Clone Troopers stationed at the base. He deflected all of the blaster fire sent at him and his soldiers as they stood at a stalemate at the shore. He ran towards the Clone Troopers as they continued to fire before performing a barrel roll through several blasts. He landed and spun around as he deflected more blasts before sending a Force-Push towards the Clones, sending them back.
"Keep going!" Gar Saxon ordered his troops.
"Kill them all!" Darth Maul yelled as he tossed his lightsaber towards a Clone Commander, killing him immediately.
Soon, the Equinox came out of Hyperspace. Ahsoka, Anakin and Serra flew down in their Jedi Starfighters while Cassie and Wonder Woman joined the Young Justice as all four Ships flew down to the surface.
"We just made a base here!" Jaybo exclaimed. "We can't lose this one so soon!"
"Let me out once we enter the atmosphere!" Connor called out.
"I'm coming too!" Cassie exclaimed.
"Not without me," Diana said. "You can't just rush into battle."
Cassie grinned as she noticed that the Bioship just entered the atmosphere. "Watch me." She challenged.
Wonder Woman gasped as Miss Martian opened up the hatch. Connor leapt out, followed by Cassie. Wonder Woman groaned and flew out as well, the three making their way down to where the battle was taking place.
"Switching to infrared!" Connor called out as his visor came over his eyes. He scanned the ground to find Maul. "Locked onto Maul!" he called out before seeing the Death Watch Devils he brought with him. "What? That's weird."
"What?" Ahsoka asked as she, Anakin and Serra formed their Jedi Cycles.
"He just brought seven Death Watch Commandos with him," Superboy reported. "I don't see a single dead Mandalorian down there."
Darth Maul cut down a Clone Trooper before hearing Superboy. He looked into the air to see him, Cassie and Wonder Woman fly down.
"Perfect," Darth Maul said. "Just what I was hoping for," he said before looking to one of the Death Watch Devils. "Hack into their Comm Channel."
"They stopped!" Wonder Woman called out. "What now?"
"Do not engage!" Ahsoka called out. "Maul is deceptive. He might be planning a trap. Do NOT engage!"
"Tano is ordering not to attack," a Death Watch Devil informed Darth Maul. "They might be trying to overwhelm us."
"Tano is not my target… for now," Maul said as he continued to watch everyone make their way down. "Signal for our sniper to fire."
Gar Saxon nodded and pressed the side of his helmet. "Skaro, fire." He ordered.
From the trees, Skaro was mounting a cannon. He aimed up and fired, causing Ahsoka and M'gann to break off their flight pattern.
"Can someone take care of that cannon?" Anakin asked.
"I'm on it!" Wonder Woman called out.
"Hey! Wait for me!" Cassie called out as she flew after Wonder Woman.
Skaro watched as Wonder Woman and Cassie flew down towards him. He quickly got off of the cannon and ran away, but Wonder Woman landed and kicked him towards a tree. Skaro got up and punched Wonder Woman, who blocked his attack before he flew back and took out his blaster, firing at her. She used her silver bracelets to deflect the blasts before Cassie flew down and ripped the jetpack off.
"What?!" Skaro exclaimed before Cassie tossed him to the ground.
"Got him!" Cassie called out.
"Hold him still," Wonder Woman said as she took out her Lasso. "There's something off here, and we're about to know what it is."
Cassie nodded and restrained Skaro. The Death Watch Commando elbowed Cassie away before he was bound by the Lasso of Truth.
"Linking everyone up now," Miss Martian said as she linked everyone up through the Psychic Link. "We all good to go?"
"Yes," Kaldur replied. "Time to take Maul in."
"Do not let them take back this base!" Darth Maul ordered as he turned to the Bioship and the Jedi Starfighters landing.
Anakin and Ahsoka leapt out, deflecting blaster fire from the Death Watch Devils before Miss Martian and Zatanna flew out, slashing down at one Death Watch Devil before the rest of the Young Justice got out as well. Paula formed her blaster tonfas and shot at the Death Watch Devils, all using shields to defend themselves, before Kid Flash ran up to Maul just as Saw aimed his blaster at him.
Darth Maul grinned and remained where he was. As Kid Flash raced towards him, he suddenly fizzed, causing the speedster to race through him before a blast from Saw knocked his goggles off.
"I am impressed, Wallace," a hologram of Darth Maul said as he turned around. "But you are too late."
"Guys, are you seeing this?" Kid Flash asked through the Psychic Link. "He's just a hologram!"
"Don't worry," Cassie said. "Wonder Woman's about to get some answers from our surprise attacker."
"Where is Maul?" Diana demanded as she wrapped the Lasso tight around Skaro. "Are there any other troops he brought besides the seven on the Beach?" she asked. "The Lasso commands you to reveal the truth!"
"I am the only one there is," Skaro replied. "Maul is right behind you."
"I'm not falling for that." Wonder Woman said.
"Look out!" Cassie called out as Maul activated his lightsaber behind Wonder Woman.
Wonder Woman gasped and turned around, seeing Maul appear and strike at her. She held up one of her bracelets, but upon the lightsaber hitting it, she was pushed back. She groaned and suddenly felt a pain in her arm.
"Bullets and blasters, your bracelets can defend against," Maul taunted. "But the blade of a lightsaber… not so much."
"He's here!" Wonder Woman called out through the Psychic Link. "Get over here! Cassie and I are under attack!"
Darth Maul cackled and slashed at Wonder Woman, who was forced to block the attacks with her silver bracelets. As she was backed away, she could hear the bracelets crack. Maul struck at her with Ataru violently, destroying her right bracelet before grabbing her left arm and throwing her to the side.
"You're done for!" Cassie called out as she ran towards Maul.
"Interesting," Darth Maul said as he used the Force to unravel the Lasso of Truth around Skaro. He cracked it and whipped Cassie away, but she recovered and picked up Skaro's blaster, firing at him. "What an interesting girl you are." He mused before wrapping the Lasso around her arms.
"Hey!" Cassie called out.
"But not good enough," Darth Maul said before throwing her to the side. "I expected more."
"You're about to get it!" Cassie called out as she got up. She flew towards Maul and grabbed Savage's lightsaber before activating it.
Maul backed away and block Cassie's first slash before disarming her of the lightsaber easily. He Force-Choked her into the air, but she kicked him away into Wonder Woman.
"Hand over my Lasso." Wonder Woman ordered.
"You have nowhere to go. Nothing else to do." Cassie said as she and Wonder Woman circled Maul.
Maul grinned and held out his lightsabers. He spun them around in front of him and behind him, causing the two Amazonians to shield their eyes. Cassie flew over the lightsaber facing her and attempted to land a punch on Darth Maul, but he grabbed her and tossed her into Wonder Woman, knocking them both out.
"Can I do that?" Darth Maul asked before he placed his lightsaber and the Lasso of Truth onto his belt. He walked away and dialed his comlink. "Saxon, have everyone pull out. We have what we came here for."
All of a sudden, Clone Troopers arrived, coming out from the trees and firing at Darth Maul. Maul looked around and used one lightsaber to deflect all of the blasts before he took out the Lasso of Truth, wrapping it around a Clone Trooper.
"I hear the Chancellor is on Earth, yet someone else is running the Senate in his place," Darth Maul said as he tightened the grip of the Lasso on the Clone Trooper. "Who is this de facto Chancellor?"
"Padmé Amidala."
"Excellent," Darth Maul said before pulling on the Lasso, strangling the Clone Trooper to death. He tossed his lightsaber around and killed off the rest of the Clone Troopers before walking away. "Saxon… some time today would be good." He said through the comlink.
"Right." Saxon replied as the Young Justice surrounded him and his troops. He fired at the ground, creating a smokescreen.
"I've got this," Wally said as he created wind, blowing the smoke away. As the smoke cleared, Saxon and the Death Watch Devils were gone. "Okay, this is getting old." The speedster complained.
"Where's Wonder Woman?" Saw asked.
At that moment, two Mandalorian Fighters flew off. Artemis, Saw, Jaybo, Lux and Paula all fired at it, but it flew off.
Katooni closed her eyes and tuned in with the Force. She took everything in for a moment before opening her eyes and letting out a gasp.
"What is it?" Ahsoka asked.
"They're in the forest!" Katooni exclaimed. "And they're out cold! Wonder Woman and Cassie!"
"Let's go!" Aqualad called out as he led the Young Justice into the Forest.
"Why would Maul leave us and take on Wonder Woman directly?" Barriss asked. "Even I wouldn't have been foolish enough to do that if I were still with the ORDER."
At that moment, Cassie got up. She looked around before seeing Wonder Woman groaning. She gasped and tended to her as the Young Justice arrived.
"What happened?" Anakin asked. "What did Maul want?"
Wonder Woman groaned as she regained consciousness. She started to feel her body before going frantic, searching all over the ground.
"No, no, no!" Wonder Woman worried. "He has it!"
"Has what?" Ahsoka asked before looking to Wonder Woman's belt. Her eyes widened. "He took your Lasso?"
"Why?" Katooni asked.
"It's not just a Lasso," Wonder Woman replied. "It's a magic Lasso that can get the truth out of anyone."
"Lasso of Truth," Cassie explained. "No one can lie whenever they're held by it."
"And now… Maul has it." Wonder Woman said.
In Hyperspace, Darth Maul was inspecting the Lasso of Truth. As he was, Skaro walked up to him.
"You didn't leave me there to die, did you, my Lord?" Skaro asked nervously.
"Do you doubt my methods, Skaro?" Darth Maul asked.
"Not at all." Skaro replied quickly as Gar Saxon got up.
"Let us put that to the test," Maul said before wrapping the Lasso of Truth around Skaro. "Now, what are your true feelings?"
"Lord Maul, I was certain that you had my fire at the Young Justice as a diversion to be killed off," Skaro said quickly. "I thought you wanted to dispose of me."
"It really does reveal the truth," Darth Maul mused before releasing Skaro from the hold of the Lasso. "Thank you for your input."
"What shall we do now?" Gar Saxon asked. "That Rope is bewitched."
"No, only powered by magic," Maul retorted. He tossed the Lasso into the air and took out his lightsaber, slashing at it. Gar Saxon gasped as it fell to the ground, not even burned. "And as indestructible as the Zillo Beast, I can see," he mused before picking it up. "Hmm, to uncover the magic within this, we must find someone who knows more about magic than anyone," he said. He looked up to Saxon. "Set course for Dathomir." He ordered.
"Right away, my Lord." Gar Saxon replied before heading back to the controls to set a course for Dathomir.
Back on Scarif, Gunships from the Equinox had landed. Jesse Quick was racing around the area. Waiting for her were Ahsoka and Black Canary. After a while, she raced back over.
"I searched the area," Jessika said. "Looks like Maul's attack here was just a ploy to lure you all here."
"And he wanted Wonder Woman's Lasso of Truth," Ahsoka said. She let out a sigh. "We should have been more careful."
"Don't worry," Dinah said. "We all make mistakes."
"Thanks," Ahsoka replied. "So… how's Diana doing?"
"She's hanging in there," Dinah replied. "Know that this is tough for her, Ahsoka. The Lasso of Truth is really important to her."
At a Communications Panel at one of the Gunships, Cassie watched as Wonder Woman reported to Batman, Superman and Jon Stewart.
"Maul seemed to be expecting us," Wonder Woman said. "He targeted me… and took away my Lasso of Truth."
"This isn't good," Batman said. "Darth Maul must have learned about its properties so he could use it for his army."
"All this time, I never thought anyone would try something like this," Diana said. "I can't believe I lost it. My Mother trusted me with it. It's a sacred weapon, and I let a Sith take it."
"Don't worry," Superman said. "I'm sure you'll figure out a way to get it back."
"It wasn't her fault," Cassie said as she finally spoke up. The Justice League turned to her as she walked over. "It was mine."
"Who is this?" Jon asked.
"Her name is Cassandra Sandsmark," Wonder Woman explained. "She was captured by the Separatists with Themyscirian artifacts, weapons and metals. Hondo got all of the stolen goods, as well as Cassie, and brought them to us."
"I tried to help Wonder Woman fight Maul," Cassie explained. "I wanted to get the Lasso back… but I only got in the way," she said as she looked down sadly. "If you can get in touch with my Mother, Helena Sandsmark… please tell her that I am with Wonder Woman… and will be heading back so that I won't get in the way again." She said before walking away.
"Cassie…" Wonder Woman said as she reached her hand out to try and stop Cassie.
Cassie turned around, seeming to consider rethinking about her decision. After a while, she turned back around and walked away.
In Hyperspace, Darth Maul was making his way onto another Mandalorian Fighter.
"The coordinates for Dathomir have been set, Lord Maul," Gar Saxon reported. "Shall we meet you back on Mustafar when you are done on Dathomir?"
"I want you to go to my Base on Nal Kapok first," Darth Maul said. "Once you get there, retrieve something for me."
"Where will I find it?" Gar Saxon asked.
"You know the way to the Base," Darth Maul said. "Inside of there…" he started out as Saxon started to make motions as to where he should look. "In a compartment near the Holocron Chamber under the fifth arch on the top floor… you will find some very valuable items that will be of use to us," he said as Saxon processed all of the directions. "Do not let yourself be seen," he added on sternly. "Do you understand?"
"Yes, Lord Maul," Gar Saxon replied. "Good luck."
"I do not believe in luck." Maul said before he flew off, detaching from the Mandalorian Shuttle and taking the Fighter off into Hyperspace.
"Set course for Nal Kapok." Gar Saxon ordered the pilot.
On Serenno, Count Dooku was meditating. His lightsaber was placed in front of him on the ground and his MagnaGuards stood around the room, armed as they guarded over the Dark Apprentice of Darth Sidious.
Outside, Tol Skorr stood with the Terror Twins and several Blade Runner Droids, as well as MagnaGuards with rocket-launchers.
"Have anything?" Skorr asked.
"So far, everything seems normal," Tuppence replied. "We got word from Savage that our new partners are going to be joining us. They already sent something to Earth, somewhere near Kord Industries."
"It won't be long until the Light has control over the Earth." Tol Skorr said.
All of a sudden, Darth Maul's Mandalorian Fighter flew over. Everyone looked up as Darth Maul landed, his lightsaber in his hand, its red blade activated.
"Attack!" Tommy ordered the MagnaGuards.
Darth Maul looked up as the MagnaGuards fired at him. He deflected all of the rockets sent at him before using the Force to crush them.
Tommy and Tuppence ran over, firing at Maul with their blasters. Maul just used the Force to grab their Blasters and sliced them apart. Tommy ran in and punched at Maul, but Maul grabbed him and threw him towards Tuppence, causing the two to fall to the ground.
"I couldn't help but overhear," Maul said before wrapping the Lasso of Truth around the Twins. "Who exactly is the new Partner of the Light?" he asked. "You can't lie yourself out of this one," he taunted. "May the truth set you free."
"They… call… themselves… the Reach." Tommy replied, trying to resist the Lasso.
"You can't stop them!" Tuppence called out.
"Oh, I beg to differ." Maul said before he released the twins. As expected, they ran to attack him, but he Force-Choked them and tossed them over to the side before jumping up to the foot of Dooku's Palace, where Tol Skorr was waiting for him with his lightsaber activated and ready.
"You're not going anywhere, Maul!" Tol Skorr called out before spinning around and performing a Vaapad slash at the leader of the DarkSiders.
"Another Sith Pretender," Maul mused as he spun around his lightsaber. "How quaint."
Darth Maul activated his lightsaber again and walked forward, blocking Skorr's attack with Shien before breaking off. He lashed out at him with the Lasso before spinning and striking at him with Ataru. Tol Skorr, surprised by the revelation of the Lasso of Truth, narrowly avoided it by slashing it to the side before blocking a Shii-Cho attack from Darth Maul. Maul kicked Skorr away before levitating several rocks towards him. Tol Skorr slashed apart the rocks before Maul lifted him into the air and through the door of the palace, landing a few feet in front of Count Dooku.
"Master…" Skorr said as Dooku looked to him with surprise. "He is here."
"Who, my Apprentice?" Dooku asked as he ran to Tol Skorr's aid.
"So… you are the Sith Pretender," Darth Maul said, causing Dooku to look up. He used the Force to grab his lightsaber before activating it as Darth Maul walked into the room. "Count Dooku… or… as our Master calls you… Darth Tyranus."
"You are no longer the Apprentice of my Master," Count Dooku retorted. "Whatever it is you want, you will not find it here."
"Oh, you know what it is I want," Darth Maul said. "The location of Darth Sidious. Where is he?!"
"I will not betray Lord Sidious like you did." Count Dooku said as he placed his lightsaber up to his face. He saluted Maul before charging at him, using Makashi to make the first move.
Maul growled and spun around his lightsaber with Ataru, countering Dooku's attack before activating his second lightsaber. Dooku looked down as Maul struck at him with Savage's lightsaber, breaking off with Maul to block the second attack. He found himself getting pushed back as Darth Maul attacked him with Niman.
As Darth Maul brought his lightsabers down onto Dooku, the Sith of Serenno held up his own lightsaber and blocked the two crossed blades. The three red blades locked together with one another before Dooku Force-Pushed Maul away.
"Kill him." Dooku ordered as the MagnaGuards and Blade Runners charged forward.
Darth Maul looked around and grinned. All of the Blade Runners charged at him, but he tossed his lightsaber at them, destroying them all at once before taking out the Lasso of Truth and wrapping it around three MagnaGuards. As he fought off the remaining two, he pulled the three MagnaGuards in and cut them all in half before stabbing the other two MagnaGuards. As he disposed of the Droids, Count Dooku sent Sith Lightning at him, but he held up Savage's lightsaber while tying his main lightsaber onto the end of the Lasso. He lashed out at Dooku with it, causing him to knock it aside several times before eventually disarming him of his weapon.
Darth Maul grinned as he saw the curved hilt fall to the side. He called his lightsaber back before lifting Dooku into the air, slamming him onto the ground before throwing him to the wall and back.
"Let the Truth set you free." Darth Maul said as he wrapped the Lasso of Truth around Count Dooku.
Dooku looked up as the Lasso of Truth tightened around him. It started to glow, and he groaned in pain.
"Let's try this again, Tyranus," Darth Maul said. "Where is Darth Sidious? You can't escape this one."
"I will not answer to you!" Count Dooku hissed, calling back his lightsaber. It activated and flew towards the Lasso, but it bounced off and slid right back to where it was.
"That was… embarrassing," Darth Maul mused. "Now… Darth Sidious," he said as he turned back to Count Dooku. "Where is he?"
Dooku struggled against the Lasso of Truth before it glowed again, causing him to yell. "He… is on… Earth…" he finally revealed. "You will find him… in the care… of the League of Shadows."
"That wasn't so hard… was it?" Darth Maul asked as he released Dooku. He Force-Pushed him towards his desk before walking out, placing his weapons back onto his belt.
Count Dooku panted as he got up. He looked to Tol Skorr, who was also getting back up, and nodded. The two sent Sith Lightning at Maul while his back was turned, but all of a sudden, the Reverse-Flash raced over and threw the Lightning back at them. He grabbed Tol Skorr and threw him to the side before disappearing.
"Thank you, Thawne," Maul said. "Now… find Darth Sidious."
"Yes, my Master." Eobard Thawne said before racing away in a streak of red lightning.
"Now, onto more urgent matters." Darth Maul said as he used the Force to bring his Starfighter to him. He leapt up into the cockpit and took off towards Dathomir.
Cassie waited for the Gunship to take her back through the Vortex back on Scarif. She walked along the shore sadly, thinking about what she did. She turned to Wonder Woman for a moment as she looked to her. Not wanting to cause any more trouble, she turned away, much to the sadness of Wonder Woman.
"So, what's with this Lasso of Truth?" Anakin asked Ahsoka as they, as well as Katooni, watched Wonder Woman turn back to talk with the League on Earth. "Aside from being able to get the truth out of anyone, that is."
"From my time on Earth, I learned it is an unbreakable Lasso," Ahsoka explained. "It has magic properties that can force anyone with the strongest will to reveal the truth. There were a good number of ORDER Troopers she caught who told her everything she needed to know when she used it on them."
"Does it work on anyone who has the Force?" Katooni asked. "You must know if it can at least do that."
"I never was able to figure out if it could do that," Ahsoka replied. "She used it to restrain Barriss when we were on Dantooine, but she never forced her to reveal the truth."
"She has silver bracelets that can deflect any kind of blaster fire," Anakin said. "So what's so important about the Lasso?"
"It was given to her by her Mother, Hippolyta," Cassie explained as she walked over. "Passed down from all of the warriors in her family before her… and now, because of me, it's in the hands of Maul," she lamented. "I shouldn't have tried to take it from him. If I just did as Wonder Woman said, he wouldn't have taken it."
"You don't know that," Ahsoka said. "Maul would have tried to kill her, even if you didn't interfere," she explained. "Don't lie to yourself like this."
"I'm not lying," Cassie said. "It's because of me that Darth Maul has the Lasso of Truth now… and I'm telling you nothing but the truth."
"No one ever said the first battle is a success," Anakin said. "It took me a while to become fully acknowledged as a Jedi."
"And it took me a while for Skyguy to accept me as his Padawan," Ahsoka added on. "So, yeah, you made a mistake," she said. "We all do. What we learn from them… that's what helps us move on and get better."
Cassie sighed. "I don't even know where to start," she said. "But if I know anyone who can stop Maul better than I could, it's you," she said. "I've already told Batman to contact my Mother and to have a Gunship bring me back through the Vortex," she said as the Young Justice, all helping out Clones nearby, stopped and looked to her with surprise. "Mother knows best. I'll stay with her… and never try to act so rash again."
Zatanna raised an eyebrow. "Mother?" she asked. Her eyes widened. "That's it!" she exclaimed.
"What is?" Paula asked.
"Darth Maul can't harness the power from the Lasso of Truth because it's magic," Zatanna said. "He has only one parent… a Mother… who is technically mine too."
"No," Artemis said, realizing who Zatanna was talking about. "No, no, no! We are not going back to that graveyard!"
"It's the only place he could have gone," Robin pointed out. "Mother Talzin can replicate the powers from that Lasso and put it into other weapons… or make more Lassos," he added on. "Both of which he can equip his army with."
"Oh, no! Not me!" Artemis exclaimed. "Last time we were there, all I saw was The Walking Dead nearly bury us alive!"
"Artemis, calm down!" Paula exclaimed.
"You weren't there, Mom!" Artemis exclaimed. "You weren't buried under dead bodies!" she yelled before turning to everyone else as Hondo flew down in a Gunship.
"My friends, I almost forgot to tell you—" Hondo started out.
"There is nothing that can make me go back to Dathomir!" Artemis exclaimed. "You cannot order me, there is nothing that will make me go anywhere near the graveyard again!"
"Listen to me!" Hondo exclaimed, causing everyone to turn to him. "You never let me tell you the rest of what happened with the Shuttle," he said. "There was a transmission from Sportsmaster. He's in the Expanded Universe, and he is going to find you!"
"Except for that," Artemis said. "Let's go."
"Wait," Aqualad said. "Where is Sportsmaster now?"
"Somewhere over Ringo Vinda," Hondo said. "It is not far from here, so… we had best be going."
"I want to avoid Dad at all costs," Artemis said. "Let's go."
Cassie raised an eyebrow before seeing another Gunship arrive. "Guess that's my ride." She said.
Robin looked to Cassie. She was the new youngest hero he met, younger than him, and he knew what it was like to lose faith so easily. After a while, he dialed onto his comlink.
"Admiral Dodonna," Robin said. "Call off the Gunship for Cassie," he ordered. "She's coming with us."
"What?" Cassie asked as she turned to Robin.
"Understood," Admiral Dodonna replied. "I'll have the Gunship turn back now."
"What are you doing?" Cassie asked.
"You're not getting out of this that easily," Robin replied. "You're young… but you can still pull off a success and make up for your mistake."
Cassie smiled.
"I should know," Robin went on. "I'm the youngest member of the Young Justice, and it even took me a while to adjust to working on a Team… and following orders," he said, remembering when he tried to lead the Team on their first Mission to Santa Prisca. "It takes time, but you'll get the hang of things," he said. "Trust me."
Cassie said nothing and hugged Robin immediately. Zatanna stood back in surprise before Cassie let go of the Boy Wonder.
"I think you'll have the great makings of a leader someday," Cassie said. "The Dark Knight was right to take you under his wing." She said before walking towards the Bioship.
Ahsoka grinned. "Nice job." She complimented Robin.
"I know it wasn't my call… but she needs to learn, like we all did," Robin said. "Hope you're not mad."
"I'm proud," Ahsoka said. "And Cassie's right. You will have the makings of a leader."
Zatanna chuckled. "Alright, let's go," she said. "The sooner we find Maul and take back the Lasso, the better."
Anakin nodded before he turned to Wonder Woman. "Are you up for this?" he asked.
"To get my Lasso back, yes," Wonder Woman replied. "Plus… Cassie's starting to grow on me."
"Oh, I almost forgot… again," Hondo said as he ran over with the sword and shield Diana was looking at earlier. "I think you will be needing these, Wonder Woman."
Wonder Woman looked to the sword and shield. She looked to Hondo and grinned. "Thanks," she said, putting the sword in the place where her Lasso hung. "It's about time I started fighting like an Amazonian Warrior again."
"You'll also be needing these," Barriss said as she walked over and handed Wonder Woman new Silver Bracelets. "There used to be an ORDER Base here. With Ahsoka's permission, some Clones to keep an eye on me, and some metal we were working on before I defected, we were able to find metal that can stand up to the attack of any kind of lightsaber."
Wonder Woman looked to the new Bracelets and put them onto her wrists. "How do I know these work?" she asked.
Barriss grinned and took out her lightsaber, slashing at Wonder Woman. Wonder Woman gasped and held up her arms, the new Silver Bracelets holding against the attacks while Barriss was sent tumbling back.
"Yes…" Barriss said as she looked up while everyone, including the Young Justice, looked on with surprise. "I think it works."
"What about the sword?" Wonder Woman asked as she took out her sword and swung it around.
"See, that one is special," Hondo said. "It came from Themyscira, but its metal is the same as Cortosis. It cannot be broken! Same goes for the shield too. We tried everything."
Ahsoka chuckled. "Okay, I think we're ready," she said. "Let's get a move on."
"I suppose I shall have to come with you again," Hondo said as Black Canary walked up behind him. "I will be in my Ship if you need me."
Hondo turned around, but jumped in surprise when he saw Black Canary glaring at him.
"The more attractive one?" Black Canary asked. "Not that I'm offended or anything, but… yeah, I'm offended."
"Don't take this the wrong way," Hondo said nervously. "What I meant was the one who looked more like royalty."
"So it's only Paula and Wonder Woman you find to be more attractive than any other woman from Earth?" Black Canary asked further on.
"Ya, I… uh, you…" Hondo stuttered as Black Canary raised an eyebrow. "I gotta go." He said before making his way towards a Gunship to get back to his Ship.
"Men." Wonder Woman said as she walked over with a hand on her hip.
"Are you really the more attractive one?" Black Canary asked as she turned to Diana.
"Well… I wouldn't say it like that in those exact words," Wonder Woman replied. "You're good-looking too."
"Although I'd love to see where this goes…" Ahsoka said. "We have to go."
Black Canary sighed. "Fine," she said before turning to Diana. "But this conversation isn't over." She said before walking towards another Gunship to get back to the Equinox.
On Serenno, Count Dooku was bowed down as a hologram of Darth Sidious appeared in front of him. Tol Skorr did the same as soon as Darth Sidious appeared.
"My Lord," Count Dooku said. "I have failed you."
"What is the matter, Lord Tyranus?" Darth Sidious asked. "What have you failed at?"
"Darth Maul attacked me and my Apprentice," Count Dooku explained. "I tried to fight him off, but he used some kind of Lasso to throw us off… and he used it to force me to tell him where you are."
"Maul used a ROPE to interrogate you?" Darth Sidious asked, almost letting out a chuckle of disbelief.
"It was no ordinary rope, my Master," Count Dooku explained. "It forced me to tell the truth. I could not lie about where you were."
"This Lasso…" Darth Sidious said. "Did it seem at all… magic to you?"
"I could sense that the Lasso was used by someone before," Count Dooku said. "Darth Maul was not the first to wield it. It was originally in the hands of the female in the Justice League they call Wonder Woman."
"I will consult with the Light about this," Darth Sidious said. "If Maul is really going to come after me, we had best be prepared."
"Yes, my Master." Count Dooku said before the transmission ended.
"What do we do now?" Tol Skorr asked. "If that Lasso can reveal the truth, then our entire operations is at risk. Protocol 66, the Reach, even our deal with Darks—"
"One problem at a time, my Apprentice," Count Dooku said. "Lord Sidious does not know of our intentions yet. We must act quickly to end Maul and the DarkSiders."
Tol Skorr nodded. "Of course, Master," he said. "Forgive me."
"Tend to the Terror Twins," Count Dooku ordered. "I have an idea as to where Darth Maul is headed to enhance such a weapon."
Tol Skorr nodded and walked away as Count Dooku made his way towards his Solar Sailor.
At the same time, Darth Maul came out of Hyperspace in his own Mandalorian Fighter, separating from the one he was in. He saw Dathomir in front of him and flew down to the surface. Seeing the remains of Battle Droids and dead Nightsisters still on the ground, he landed, just as green ichor mist appeared as he got up from his seat and made his way out.
"Welcome, my Son," Mother Talzin said. "To what do I owe this unexpected visit?"
"I shall only be here for a short time, Mother," Darth Maul said as he took out the Lasso of Truth. "I am not so specially trained in magic like Asajj Ventress is, and I need help in replicating this Lasso," he explained as he used the Force to levitate the Lasso of Truth towards Mother Talzin. "I know that you once created a pike for my Brother," he said. "Can you replicate this?"
Mother Talzin inspected the Lasso of Truth, a green aura glowing around it. "This will not be an easy task to accomplish," she said. "Earth Magic is surprisingly more powerful than my own, but after Zatanna shared her magic with me, I can create more of these Lassos in half the time it took me to create Savage."
"As long as the Lasso is replicated, you have all the time you need." Darth Maul said.
"I could also bring back Savage," Mother Talzin said. "He can be stronger than before," she stated. "With my stronger magic, I can make his power just like yours."
Darth Maul turned to Mother Talzin with surprise. "You… can bring back Savage?" he asked.
"After you escaped Darth Sidious, you brought me his body," Mother Talzin stated. "He will not be brought back as an Undead, like the Nightsisters, but as a new, fully-healed Sith, like he was before," she explained. "I have seen you building an army… and Savage can help you once more."
"Make him exactly the same as he was before," Darth Maul said. "I don't want there to be any changes made to him."
"As you wish, my Son," Mother Talzin said. She suddenly sensed something and turned around. "They are coming."
"Tano and the Young Justice, of course," Maul said. "Obviously, they realized I was coming here, and are wishing to reclaim the Lasso."
"Then you will need help to hold them off," Mother Talzin said before taking some of Wonder Woman's blood from the Lasso. She levitated it into the air, where it slowly started to take the form of a human. "From the blood of Earth's God of War, Ares, I present to you a warrior of brute strength and merciless prowess," she explained before the blood formed into a human with white hair, black eyes and armor similar to Savage's. "I present to you… Thrax."
Thrax looked up and snarled as a sword came into his hands, glowing with green Ichor Energy as it formed into the weapon of destruction.
"Come with me," Darth Maul ordered Thrax. "Continue to work on the Lasso," he told Mother Talzin. "We will hold them off for as long as we can."
"As you wish, Master." Thrax replied as he twirled around his sword.
At the same time, in Hyperspace, Anakin was training against Wonder Woman using her new weapons. The two clashed blades across the new training room of the Equinox as the Young Justice, with Cassie, watched the battle go on.
"You know, Wonder Woman once showed me Themyscira," Ahsoka said. "You know, before Serra, Jaybo and Saw came. I was impressed at the sight of an island that trained female warriors."
"I was taken to the Island once or twice," Cassie spoke up. "I trained with some of the warriors there. I must have been there before you came, Ahsoka."
Ahsoka chuckled. "I feel you," she said. She turned to Cassie. "By the way, I never got to ask," she started out. "Why do you look up to Wonder Woman so much?" she asked. "I thought your Mother was an archeologist."
"She is," Cassie said before looking down sadly. "But her work gets in the way of any mother-daughter bonding. We get together sometimes, but other times… not so much."
"So, you grew up with your Mother all this time?" Katooni asked.
"For as long as I remember, yeah," Cassie confirmed. "You can't really have that much when living with Zeus, so I was raised by my Mom. I guess that's the life of a demigod."
"So, how'd you end up on Themyscira?" Raquel asked.
"There are times when Mom takes me there to hang out when she's busy," Cassie explained. "Sometimes I go to the gym, other times, to Themyscira," she went on. "One day, when I was on Themyscira, I was watching Aresia and Bekka spar with each other," she started to explain. "Aresia, of course, won, and I went to try and talk with her. However, when I followed her to the armory, I found her pretty beaten up bad. Out of nowhere, those sword Droids you call Blade Runners attacked. I fought at least seven of them before someone knocked me out. The next thing I knew when I woke up, I was in a Shuttle heading into the Expanded Universe," she said. She let out a small chuckle. "They actually tried to restrain me with ropes around my hands. I broke free, and fought off a couple of those MagnaGuards before I was stun-blasted," she said. "When I came to again, I was being held by chains that I somehow couldn't break out of. Took me a while to stop struggling, even took down the MagnaGuards watching over me. That was when Hondo hijacked the Shuttle and rescued me."
"See?" Hondo asked as he walked over. "I was telling you the truth! She is as strong as General Grievous. And when she asked me to take her to Diana, I could not turn down the opportunity to show that for once, I was not in it for the money."
"Yeah, sure," Ahsoka replied as she rolled her eyes. She looked back to the battle as Wonder Woman pushed Anakin back. "You know, it's still hard to believe, that after all this time of Diana using the Lasso of Truth, someone has finally decided to target it for their own use," she mused. "The Light or the ORDER could have done it, but they didn't. Maul has to be the first one to try and take advantage of it."
"Ahsoka…" a voice called out.
Ahsoka gasped quietly, as did Katooni. The two turned around to see Sonia standing at the ramp of the Bioship, looking to them with a smile.
Serra turned around. "What is it?" she asked.
"Katooni and I just need to check on something," Ahsoka said as she nudged her head at Katooni. "Come on," she told her Padawan. "Why don't we check this out?"
"Sure." Katooni said before she and Ahsoka walked away.
"Okay, I get keeping Ezra and Sabine a secret," Robin said. "But what could Ahsoka be hiding now?"
"We've been… talking with Sonia." Miss Martian explained.
"But I thought Sonia was… you know…" Zatanna said.
"We're seeing spirits of her," M'gann explained. "She can reveal herself to any one of us, like Qui-Gon did on Earth."
"But back then, we could see him," Connor said. "Why can't we see her now?"
"Maybe it's because she hasn't chosen to talk to us yet," Aqualad suggested. "I have learned that it takes patience for someone to talk to us. We must wait… no matter how long it takes."
All of the Young Justice turned to Ahsoka and Katooni as they made their way to the foot of the Bioship.
"Sonia," Ahsoka said. "Hello."
"Hello, Ahsoka," Sonia replied. "I see your Padawan is learning quickly." She said as she looked to Katooni and smiled.
"Thank you." Katooni said.
Ahsoka cleared her throat. "Sonia…" she started out. "I don't mean to offend you… but… when you were still with the ORDER… did you have plans for weapons of the Justice League?"
"It's no problem," Sonia said. "While I was still in the ORDER, there were indeed plans for the members of the Justice League, as well as other strongest people back in our Universe," she said. "Zamaron Rings, Nth Metal, Mega Metal, you name it. We had plans for all of those."
"Did you have any plans for Wonder Woman's Lasso of Truth?" Katooni asked. "Maul just stole it, and we think he's going to find a way to make it into a weapon."
Sonia sighed. "We had a plan in action to take it," she explained. "I was not a part of it, but I was given the full details of the operation."
"What was the operation?" Ahsoka asked.
"As you know, the Lasso of Truth can force anyone to reveal the truth about anything, hence its name," Sonia explained. "We had a plan to take it, and use Dathomiri Magic to replicate it, make more, if you will."
"But what happened?" Ahsoka asked.
"A man named Damien Darhk, who was in charge of the operation, decided to use it against Jedi," Sonia explained. "From what my Father told me, he wanted to try and use me as a test subject, but upon learning that using it would alter the events of the War, he scrapped the project, and Damien Darhk was forced to step down from it," she explained. "However, he still believed that, if one used the same magic made to create it, or at least magic similar to it, it could be replicated, with each one stronger than the original."
"Was he right?" Katooni asked.
"One day, he took a lightsaber, one that was given to Barriss after she tracked down the woman who killed her family," Sonia explained. "Using some sort of magic, he was able to make another lightsaber, stronger than the source material. We found out about it, and we decided to put future experiments like that on hold until we found something strong we could replicate that could make the ORDER the strongest organization ever."
"And now, the Lasso of Truth is in the hands of Maul," Ahsoka finished up. "Most likely on Dathomir to create more of them."
"I know what happened, Ahsoka," Sonia said. "I know that Cassandra Sandsmark tried to take it back. She has courage," she stated. "She'll be able to take it back."
Ahsoka smiled. "Thanks, Sonia." She said.
"No problem," Sonia replied. "Oh, and, here's some advice," she said. "People may be cold… but they're not always cold-hearted."
"That… that makes no sense." Katooni said.
"You just have to think about it," Sonia said. "Trust me, it will help you out later on."
"Thank you for the advice, Sonia," Ahsoka said. "We'll be sure to tell your Father that you're at peace now."
"Thank YOU," Sonia said. "I have never felt more at peace than ever now that I have been shown the light of the Force." She said before walking away, disappearing into blue mist.
Anakin and Wonder Woman locked blades with each other, both attempting to gain the upper hand. Wonder Woman eventually slammed her shield at him, knocking him away before kicking him towards the wall, where a red x was put over him.
"Just like the Cave," Kid Flash said. "Classic!"
Anakin got back up again and tossed his lightsaber at Wonder Woman. In response, Wonder Woman tossed her shield at his lightsaber, the two weapons being knocked to the side. Wonder Woman ran for her shield while Anakin used the Force to call his lightsaber back. However, before he could use it on her, Wonder Woman tossed her shield at him, bouncing off of his prosthetic hand before bouncing off of the walls, eventually hitting the Chosen One in the back and knocking him to the ground.
"You seem even better with a sword and shield than you are with your Lasso." Ahsoka complimented.
"I feel like the shield could use a little more work," Wonder Woman said as she looked to her shield, seeing some dents on it. "I know it can't be broken, but at the very least, I think it could use something more," she said. "Every warrior has to find a way to adapt to new environments, after all."
"I'll see what I can do." Jaybo said as he walked over.
Wonder Woman nodded and handed the shield over to Jaybo. Jaybo took a look at it before walking towards the new workshop inside of the Equinox for him to work on the Amazonian Shield.
Earth-16 | Western Mongolia October 3rd 1533 Hours ITC+7:00
All of the Light gathered together in Western Mongolia. Every member, with Louise Lincoln taking the place of OceanMaster, stood around and waited for Darth Sidious to arrive.
"What was the sudden urgency to call this meeting?" Queen Bee asked as someone donned in a cloak waited next to her. "We have not heard from any activity of the ORDER for weeks, yet the DarkSiders have been on the move," she said. "I need to ensure the needs of my people are met."
"Calm yourself, Queen Bee," Lex Luthor said. "Perhaps Darth Sidious has news for us on the warfront in the Expanded Universe."
"Queen Bee is quite correct about the growth of the DarkSiders," Darth Sidious said as he came out from the shadows with General Grievous by his side. "They are becoming a problem with every growing day."
"So what is the problem, Lord Sidious?" Vandal Savage asked.
"Darth Maul has taken a weapon from Wonder Woman of the Justice League," Darth Sidious explained before looking to the cloaked woman next to Queen Bee. He held his hand out and started to Force-Choke her, revealing herself to be a woman with blonde hair and green eyes, wearing white with gold armor plating on her body. "I believe you are most familiar with this… Aresia."
Aresia panted as she looked up. "The Lasso of Truth," she said. "Her one weapon."
"Darth Maul has taken it, and he has used it to force the Light's Terror Twins to reveal our secret partners, as well as force Count Dooku to reveal where I am," Darth Sidious said. "Why have we not been informed of a weapon that can bypass the resistance of the Force?!" he demanded. "It is too dangerous in the hands of Jedi and Sith alike, let alone be used on them!" he exclaimed. "Why has the Light made no attempt to destroy this weapon?!"
"The Lasso of Truth cannot be destroyed," Aresia explained. "I believe that if Maul has tried to test out its durability, he might realize that not even a lightsaber can destroy it," she said. "It is an ancient weapon passed down from Hippolyta to Diana, and from Hippolyta's mother and her mother before her," she went on. "Any enemy of Wonder Woman knows better than to try and use it against her or anyone else."
"The consequences for using the Lasso can be dangerous," Klarion said. He let out a snicker. "It's actually almost funny," he said as Darth Sidious slowly lifted his hand up. "Almost as if you fear the Las—"
Before Klarion could go on, Darth Sidious Force-Choked him, causing everyone, who had stepped back as soon as the Witch Boy spoke out against Sidious, to look on with surprise.
"I find your lack of faith disturbing." Darth Sidious said.
"Enough!" the Brain exclaimed. "Lord Sidious, release him!"
"Watch your tongue, Witch Boy." Darth Sidious said as he released Klarion.
The Witch Boy dropped to the ground and gasped for breath.
"What do you wish for, Dark Lord?" Ra's al Ghul asked.
"A weapon that cannot be destroyed is dangerous in the hands of anyone, even us," Darth Sidious said. "Because it was used by Maul, he is probably planning to come to Earth to attack us," he said. "We will let Wonder Woman take it back, but from now on, do not let dangerous weapons like this Lasso of Truth fall into our hands to be used against them, no matter the temptation," he ordered. "I will not let our weapons to be used against us."
"You want the Young Justice… to win?" Louise asked.
"Does that sound like a problem?" Darth Sidious challenged.
"N-no, Lord Sidious," Louise replied. "Forgive me."
"Do not keep any more secrets from us," General Grievous ordered. "Or else you shall know true fear from the Sith."
Vandal Savage narrowed his eyes at the two Separatists. "Acknowledged." He said grimly.
Expanded Universe…
The Equinox came out from Hyperspace. In front of them was Dathomir.
"We'll have to be careful," Ahsoka said. "We don't know what Maul has waiting for us down there."
"In that case, let's use the Twilight too," Anakin said. "I have a feeling we're not going to be needing that many people for this."
"It is a grab-and-go mission," Wonder Woman said. "I suggest that we take Ahsoka and Katooni with us…" she started out before looking to Cassie. "And Cassie too."
"You mean it?!" Cassie exclaimed in surprise.
"You want to prove yourself, don't you?" Wonder Woman asked.
"I'm in." Cassie said with a nod.
"Good," Wonder Woman said before handing Cassie a pair of silver bracelets. "You'll be needing these."
"And you'll be needing this," Jaybo said as he handed the shield to Wonder Woman. "I repaired it, made it stronger, and added a few mods to it along the way," he said. "I think you'll find what I did to the shield to be very useful."
Wonder Woman looked to her new shield and smiled. "Thank you, Jaybo." She said.
"Alright," Ahsoka said as she looked to Katooni. "Katooni, let's go," she said before turning to Robin. "Robin, I'm counting on you to lead the Young Justice into battle if we need help."
"You're counting on me to be Team Leader?" Robin asked.
"You helped out Cassie," Ahsoka pointed out. "And she was right. You do have the makings of a leader."
"Thanks." Robin replied.
"M'gann, no offense, but you need to stay here," Ahsoka said. "Don't get me wrong, you've grown powerful, but Mother Talzin is stronger, even when your Force Powers were starting to show."
"Yeah, don't remind me," Miss Martian said, shivering at the memory of what happened the last time the Young Justice came to Dathomir. "I'll stay behind."
"Good," Ahsoka said. "Okay, everyone into the Twilight," she ordered everyone before looking to Raquel. "Hey, Raq," she called out, causing Raquel to turn to her. "I trust Barriss, but I need someone to watch over her while I'm down in the Scrapyard."
"You got it!" Raquel exclaimed before Barriss eyes her. "Sorry," she apologized. "No hard feelings?"
"Don't worry, I get it a lot." Barriss replied.
"Let's go." Anakin said as he and R2 went into the Twilight.
"May the Force be with you." Serra said.
"And with you too." Ahsoka replied before getting onto the Bioship.
The Hangar Bay Door opened, and Anakin flew the Twilight out and towards the surface of Dathomir.
"Wasn't this thing a trash heap when we last had it?" Ahsoka asked.
"I don't think we noticed the damages it took over the years." Anakin mused.
"Maybe after all this time, no one saw it get so banged up." Katooni said.
At the same time, Count Dooku arrived at Dathomir in his Solar Sailor. He readied his lightsaber as he saw the Nightsister Village on the ground below.
"Strange," Maul said as he looked up at the Twilight as it flew down. "I thought that Ship was destroyed."
"Master, we are not alone." Thrax said.
Maul turned to see the Solar Sailor fly over. Count Dooku leapt out of it and landed on the ground.
"Darth Maul," Count Dooku said. "I believe we have some unfinished business."
"Yes, I believe we do," Darth Maul said before looking behind Dooku, eliciting a grin from what he saw. "You and an old friend."
At that moment, Komari Vosa appeared from behind Count Dooku, Force-Pushing him to the side before using Force-Speed to run up beside her Master.
"Hello, Count." Komari Vosa said.
"Vosa?!" Count Dooku asked in surprise. "You're alive?!"
"You cast her aside," Darth Maul said. "And I came to her aid. Now, she serves me."
"It seems I have made a habit of discarding my Apprentices," Count Dooku mused. "No more."
At that moment, the Twilight landed. Anakin, Ahsoka, Katooni, Wonder Woman and Cassie all ran out, but stopped upon seeing all of the enemies that had gathered together.
"Oh my Hera," Wonder Woman said. "I wasn't expecting this."
"One Separatist, three DarkSiders," Ahsoka said. "Whose side do we take?"
"Does it matter?" Katooni asked. "I'm betting that neither side wants to call a truce right about now."
"On that much, we agree on," Dooku said. "My Master will be pleased to hear of the demise of everyone here."
Anakin and Ahsoka both activated their lightsabers and aimed them at Count Dooku, who activated his own lightsaber and aimed it back at them. As Komari Vosa activated her own lightsabers, Katooni aimed her own two back at her. Darth Maul chuckled before seeing Wonder Woman and Cassie advance towards them.
"You look familiar." Wonder Woman said to Thrax.
"You two share a blood bond… literally," Darth Maul said. "Created from your blood, the blood of Ares, who you have fought before, I present to you his Son… Thrax."
"My Master will not be denied." Thrax said as he scraped his sword along the ground.
"I'll take Maul," Cassie said. "You get the so-called son of Ares."
"Wait," Wonder Woman said. "He doesn't have the Lasso."
"He must have had this Mother Talzin try to experiment with it," Cassie said. All of a sudden, Thrax ran in and brought his sword down onto the two, causing them to roll off to the side. "Take him!" she yelled. "I've got Maul!"
"Good luck!" Wonder Woman called out before tossing her sword. "Take this!"
Cassie caught the sword and blocked an attack from Thrax before kicking him away. She flew right at Darth Maul and slammed into him, forcing the two back towards the arch in front of the entrance to the Nightsister Temple.
Darth Maul growled and got up. He activated his lightsaber and slashed at Cassie, who blocked his attack with the sword she was given. The two broke off before Cassie slashed at his chest. Maul staggered backwards before seeing that Mother Talzin had already made a second Lasso. He used the Force to grab the original one before lashing out at Cassie with it.
Cassie slashed aside the Lasso before Maul struck at her arms. Cassie held up her new Silver Bracelets and fended off against the lightsaber strike before kneeing Maul away.
Katooni crossed her blades and charged at Komari Vosa, who slashed back at her with her own two lightsabers. The two locked their right lightsabers with one another before Komari Vosa kicked Katooni away. Luckily, Katooni stabbed her lightsabers into the ground, slowing her down, before she got up and blocked an overhead Niman strike from Komari Vosa. She broke off and slashed at Komari Vosa in the waist, but Komari Vosa slashed at her side with both of her lightsabers. Katooni gasped and held one lightsaber at her side, blocking the two crimson lightsabers before using her other one to slash Komari Vosa in the stomach, causing her to fall.
"Your powers have grown through leaps and bounds." Komari Vosa said.
"I'm just getting started!" Katooni exclaimed before slashing down at Komari Vosa.
Komari Vosa held up her lightsabers before Katooni kicked away her left blade. Komari Vosa growled as she got back up, aiming her lightsaber down at Katooni as she slowly started to advance towards her. She slashed down at Katooni, who used Niman to throw off every slash sent at her before using Obi-Wan's lightsaber to lock blades with her. The two stared each other down before breaking off. Katooni performed an Ataru swing at Komari, but she circled their blades around and threw her new lightsaber up into the air. However, Katooni leapt into the air and performed a screw-kick on Vosa, knocking her back before regaining her lightsaber.
Anakin slammed his lightsaber at Count Dooku high with Ataru, to which he blocked with Makashi before Ahsoka ran in and slashed him away with Shien. Dooku backed away and parried off her attacks before the two locked blades with each other. Both Ahsoka and Count Dooku stared each other down, trying to gain momentum over one another. However, their powers were evenly-matched, and they broke off with each other.
"You will have to do better than that, Padawan." Dooku remarked.
"It's 'Knight' now." Ahsoka said through gritted teeth before taking out the Xiphon and activating its black blade.
Count Dooku saluted to Ahsoka before charging at her again. Both Ahsoka and Anakin charged back at Dooku, Ahsoka slashing at him with Niman and Shien. Both aqua and black blades slammed against Dooku's crimson lightsaber before Anakin slashed at him with Ataru. Dooku held up his lightsaber in a Makashi Defensive Stance before Anakin kicked him away, where Ahsoka slashed at him with Shii-Cho. The Count of Serenno staggered before spinning around and bringing his lightsaber down onto Ahsoka. Ahsoka held both her lightsaber and the Xiphon up high and felled Dooku to the ground. Anakin attempted to slash down at him, but Dooku blocked his attack and twirled back up, slashing his lightsaber at the two again.
Anakin slashed at Dooku with Soresu, forcing him back. Count Dooku parried off his attacks once again using Makashi before Ahsoka kicked him away. Dooku tried to shoot Sith Lightning at Anakin, but he held up his lightsaber in defense. While his guard was down, Ahsoka used her Arm-Mounted Crossbow Gauntlet to shoot Dooku away.
"I've got this." Ahsoka said.
"Go for it." Anakin said.
Ahsoka thrust her lightsaber down before slashing upwards. She slashed down and spun around, sending forth her SokaTan Strike, knocking Count Dooku flying backwards.
At the same time, Wonder Woman was slashing at Thrax with her shield. Thrax blocked her attacks and slashed back with his sword. Wonder Woman held her shield up in defense before slamming him away. Thrax was not easily knocked away and slammed his fist at Wonder Woman, who held up her shield again. This time, her shield glowed. As Diana broke off with Thrax, she aimed her shield at him, and a blast came out from the rim, knocking him away.
"Thank you, Drol." Wonder Woman said as she stood ready with her shield again.
Thrax growled and charged at Wonder Woman again, who tossed her shield at him in response. Thrax knocked the shield to the side before Wonder Woman leapt into the air and caught it, slamming down at Thrax with it. The two locked their weapons with each other and started to circle around as they stared each other down.
Darth Maul cackled and leapt towards Cassie, slashing at her. Cassie backflipped away before getting kicked to the ground. She looked up and gasped as he stabbed his lightsaber down at her, but she rolled out of the way until she locked blades with Maul once again.
Wonder Woman held up her shield as Thrax slammed his sword at her. Both Diana and Cassie looked to each other and nodded before Maul kneed her in the chest.
"Cassie, here!" Wonder Woman called out, throwing her shield.
"You die here!" Maul exclaimed as he brought his lightsaber down onto Cassie.
Wonder Woman's shield hit Maul's hands before going back to her. Cassie got up and kicked Maul away, regaining her sword before she and Wonder Woman exchanged weapons.
Cassie shot at Thrax before shooting at Maul. Maul deflected the blasts from the shield before running at her and attacking her with Ataru. Cassie lifted her shield up and blocked the lightsabers before grabbing the Lasso from Darth Maul. Maul gasped as it was taken away before Cassie broke off and used it to lash out at him. She spun around on her side and knocked him away with the shield before attaching it to the Lasso, using it to slam Maul away. As soon as he was down, Cassie tossed the shield at Mother Talzin, who instantly teleported away, allowing Cassie to take the second Lasso.
Thrax stared Wonder Woman down and readied his sword. Wonder Woman slashed her sword down as Thrax charged at her. She calmly walked up to him before running. Simultaneously, the two slashed at each other, holding their swords up high as they stopped running. As soon as they passed, Thrax suddenly coughed. Blood came out of his mouth before he fell to the ground. Wonder Woman panted and slashed her sword across as Thrax disappeared into Ichor Energy.
Komari Vosa got up and looked to her Master. "Lord Maul!" she exclaimed, running to his aid.
Cassie walked over to Maul. She lifted up her shield to finish him off until Komari Vosa ran over. She kicked her towards Maul and prepared to finish them off until a red streak of lightning took them away. She gasped before making her way towards Wonder Woman, handing her the Lasso. "Here," she said before taking out the second one. "Mother Talzin made a duplicate, so I think you should have this one too."
Wonder Woman looked down before looking to Cassie with a smile. "You know what? Keep it," she said. "You've proved yourself here today. I'm proud of you."
Cassie blushed. "Thanks." She said.
"Where's Talzin?" Ahsoka asked.
"Gone, by the looks of it." Cassie said.
"Well, we'd best get out of here," Katooni said. "Before Maul recovers."
"Right." Anakin said.
"You know, I could always use a partner." Wonder Woman said.
"With all due respect, Diana… I think that after all I've been through… there's no place like home," Cassie said. "I'm glad I proved myself to you… but I want to go back now… to Earth."
Wonder Woman nodded. "I respect your wish," she said. "And I will let your Mother know about the great thing you did today."
"Thank you very much," Cassie said. "But… I think that I will need some more training when I go to Themyscira next time."
"Cassie, I know you want to go, but I think you have what it takes to become a member of the Young Justice someday." Ahsoka said.
"Thank you," Cassie said. "I look forward to the day when we meet again."
"Come on," Anakin said. "Let's go home."
Soon, everyone left in the Twilight. Dooku looked up and narrowed his eyes before walking to his Solar Sailor, making his way back to Serenno.
On the Equinox, everyone applauded as Ahsoka, Anakin, Katooni, Wonder Woman and Cassie came out.
"We won't be having any more problems with the Lasso getting stolen again." Wonder Woman said.
"You really did it, Cassie," Robin said. "I guess you had it in you all along."
"I guess I did," Cassie said. "Thank you, Boy Wonder."
"You have a good future ahead of you as Wonder Woman's partner someday," Dick said. "Should you ever decide to join the Young Justice for good… how about the name… Wonder Girl?"
Cassie grinned. "Sounds about right." She said.
"I called for a Gunship to take you home," Ahsoka said before looking to Jesse Quick. "You and Jesse."
"I get to train on Earth?" Jessika asked. "Wizard!"
"Where's Zatanna?" Ahsoka asked as she looked around.
"She went down to Dathomir," Wally said. "Wanted to take care of something, but she'll be back soon."
Cassie walked up to Wally. "There's a Speedster helping Maul." She said.
"What?"
"Red lightning," Cassie explained. "It's like the Flash, but more of…"
"The Reverse," Wally finished up. "Oh, man."
Komari Vosa brought Darth Maul back into the Nightsister Temple. As the two rested, Mother Talzin appeared again.
"This was not a complete failure," Mother Talzin said. "Now, we know not only the strength of Earth magic, but the dedication Dooku shows for Darth Sidious."
"Were you able to replicate the Lasso more?" Maul asked.
"I was only able to make one more, but I have a new plan," Mother Talzin said. "One that can lure Darth Sidious here. I have seen it happen. You must let yourself be captured by him first, and you will take Dooku with you to Dathomir."
"He will kill you, Mother," Maul said. "I cannot do it."
"Not alone, you can't," a familiar voice said. Maul and Vosa looked to the side as Zatanna, donned in her Nightsister Robes, walked out of the shadows. "I owe Talzin for making my magic stronger, but until then and afterwards… I'm gonna make sure you die." She said before teleporting away.
"Sidious will stand no chance against us." Mother Talzin said.
"This is a day I will be looking forward to." Darth Maul said with a grin.
Back on the Equinox, Zatanna came back. She looked around before walking towards her friends.
"Are we ready?" Zatanna asked.
"Just in time." Robin said.
A Gunship arrived, and Cassie and Jesse boarded. Everyone saluted the two, in which they saluted back before boarding. Everyone looked to the two with a smile as the Gunship flew off towards the Vortex.
Author's Notes: Well, everyone, what did you think of my new Chapter? Like my tribute to Young Justice: Invasion? I put lots of work into this, so I hope you like it. I'll have a new Chapter out by New Years like last year. Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, if you can, Private Message me for anything on the Story. After all, I'm always keen to hear from you. For now, this is SuperHeroTimeFan signing off. Merry Christmas, everyone! Happy Holidays!