Hello everyone, and Happy Thanksgiving! I am SuperHeroTimeFan, and I have come back to FanFiction with a brand-new Chapter for my best Story, Journey of the Knight: Honor Bound! Thank you all for continuing to support this Story. With everything going on, I am glad to be returning to doing one of my favorite Stories, and hopefully continue it more with the success I have gotten since Halloween and with us about to enter a new decade. Thank you, everyone, for your continuous support. My thanks extends to MinuteMan76, MartyrFan, The Mandalorian Terminator, Jacqueline Karst, Logan GC, FusionBase27A, Ezra Wren, Ultimate Advent Story Dude VII, Eubulon Zenith Extreme, Geo Hikari The 2nd, Cycomatrix Eternal, fire-storm-amagi, Jack Sparrow 475, Hay Lin x Tsukasa Kadoya, Ross Blum the IV, Rebel Sabine Bridger, HarmonyGirl567, Riku Soncazenosee, Dwayne McDuffie, Bowser3000000, animebella09, Slade The Terminator, High Supreme King Of Awesome, Tines Sensahthe, Ultra Neo Kamen Rider 15, Awesometacular Extravaganza, 17lakect, the conman w, PHL360, Spartan of Chaos, GundamTachiagate, Phily76, dragonslayerajahn, LadySerentity22, DJ Meltdown of Ground Xero, Dragon Slayer John, Just a Crazy-Man, SethBloodFallen, Wolfman2010ism, Joey Lumbley, Mr. StrangerMan98, Rebecca Chambers Rules, Sleeping Skeleton, Nibra Ha Rishon, Mr. FNAF Fan-Gamer, LadyStar10, Neos the Final Builder, wolf579, Kat1017, Maniiikz, 1049, Taiski, ToLegitt2Quit, RebeccaSnow23, Carlos Jacob, Armando Andres Romero Lozano 7, Wolfslick, CT7567Rules, Outplace, TheGreatGodzilla, Darth Sicarius, AbbyDobbie, Maximus Potter, Darth Khan, Virgil1989 The Crossover King, and of course, all of you Guest Reviewers. It really means a lot that this Story continues to get so much love, despite its fallbacks. Thank you all so much. Now, as usual, here are some questions that need to be addressed. To T-Bone, I have seen all of the Star Wars Trailers, for Star Wars Resistance, The Rise of Skywalker, Jedi: Fallen Order, and so on, and I really have enjoyed them. I am watching Batwoman, yes. I enjoyed all the panels from this year. No, I have not seen any of Galaxy's Edge, and I am not sure about those Chapter ideas, due to having everything already planned out. Also, thanks for the news on everything Star Wars and DC. It helps. I am also watching The Mandalorian on Disney+, and I am really enjoying it, as I have enjoyed all the Cutscenes shown for Jedi: Fallen Order. Now, without further ado, here is my newest Chapter! Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, please be sure to enjoy!
Chapter 28: Crystal Clash
Be the one who makes the right calls, not the one who follows the wrong ones.
Beware of the crystals! Having stopped the operations of the Shadow Collective on Shei'Ten Kar, Tehar, Najra-Va and Castillon, Darth Maul now holds the crystals and the prism he needs to complete his newest plan: Operation Hell Saber! Now with the RUINATION armed with the crystals gathered from the four Planets, the operation has completed. With time running short, the Young Justice, with Katana and Metamorpho, and their new ally, Nomad, with assistance from the 31st Crime Investigatory, head to the Planet of Crait to stop the Shadow Collective's plan before it can spread like a fire across the galaxy! Meanwhile, as they do, the Young Justice work to build a new ship, its starting interior abandoned by Anthony Ivo, in the hopes of turning the tides of war.
In Hyperspace, Anakin, Obi-Wan, Mace Windu and Kit Fisto were all getting speaking with the Jedi Council, as well as Count Dooku and Tol Skorr.
"Darth Maul has been operating on several Planets," Anakin reported. "As far as we can tell, he and the Shadow Collective have harvested crystals from other Planets, but we were only able to stop him on Shei'Ten Kar, Najra-Va, Tehar and Castillon."
"And in that time, the Legion of Doom has been growing stronger," Obi-Wan added on. "Stronger than when we faced them on Earth."
"As if N-K Necrosis wasn't enough. Now we have to contend with a stronger Legion." Depa Billaba mused.
"Vaapad Rage has also become a new problem," Mace Windu added on. "Despite their perversion of the seventh form, they are quite formidable. We have all faced their top lieutenants on different planets, but none match the strength of their leader, Vrak."
"Or his sister, Bemulaire," Obi-Wan added on. "She holds his rage within him, and is twice as dangerous."
"I feel it would be best for all of us to know what we are now dealing with." Plo Koon said.
"From what we have learned, they are preparing for something called Operation Hell Saber," Ahsoka said, entering the room. "Based on our battles, it requires a lot of crystals, and I have reason to believe that Maul now has all the Kyber Crystals he needs."
"Dangerous, it can be, for Kyber Crystals to be weaponized, especially under the guidance of one like Darth Maul," Master Yoda said. "Take care, you must. Unpredictable, can it become, for combating against those with Kyber Crystals as weapons."
"Don't worry, Masters," Ahsoka said. She looked to some security footage showing what the Young Justice was up to. "We have something planned out for when we fight them again."
"You have a contingency for dealing with Operation Hell Saber?" Tol Skorr asked.
Mace Windu turned back to Tol Skorr and Count Dooku. "Yes, we do," he said. "Trust us when we say this, and trust your past experiences as well, the Young Justice are capable of great things, and have achieved the impossible."
"I concur," Count Dooku agreed. "But if it is all the same with you, Tol Skorr and I would like to go ahead to the Planet of Crait to delay the Shadow Collective, by any means necessary."
"Do what you have to do, Count," Obi-Wan said as Anakin narrowed his eyes. "But do not underestimate Vaapad Rage. They are as formidable as even you, General Grievous, and even Sylas."
"I will keep that in mind," Count Dooku said. "May the Force be with you."
With that, all the transmissions ended.
"I know we're aligned for now, but I still don't trust Dooku," Anakin said. "You know what he's done throughout the Clone Wars, especially since he left the Jedi Order."
"It is difficult to show trust with the Separatists, I agree," Kit Fisto said. "But while the Shadow Collective is still at large, we have to be sure to put all tensions aside, and focus on the matter at hand."
Anakin sighed. "I suppose you're right, Master Fisto," he conceded. He looked to Ahsoka. "So, what kind of plan do you and the Young Justice have?" he asked.
"Well, it's more of Raquel's plan," Ahsoka replied. "She and Metamorpho found an interior shell of what looks like a basis for a ship. We're trying to complete it now."
In the Hangar Bay, Robin looked to the Kyber Crystal Ship's Interior design from Najra-Va. As he did, he looked to some readings on his hologlove as Katana was checking out one of the lightsabers she took while on Shei'Ten Kar.
"You're saying this was left behind by Ivo?" Aqualad asked as Serra and Rocket looked at the interior construct.
"What Metamorpho and I are betting, yes," Rocket replied. "The Shadow Collective must have gone through a lot of trouble to get a Kyber Crystal this size. I'm betting it's strong enough to create impenetrable shields, maybe even more."
"What I'm more concerned about is the fact that they were planning to use Ships that can even be powered by Kyber Crystals to begin with," Zatanna said. "I've got a feeling they won't be too happy that we took this."
"Don't worry," Metamorpho said as Katana continued to check out the lightsaber in her hands. "We did a sweep of the Ship, and cleared away any failsafe switches that they could use on us. Detonators and tracking beacons too."
"Good," Serra said as she looked to the design of the Kyber Crystal Ship made so far. "The more of an edge we have over the Shadow Collective, the better."
"Agreed," Ahsoka said as she came over. "I just hope it's enough to stop what Darth Maul has planned with his Hell Saber Operation."
On Crait, Darth Maul was overlooking Operation Hell Saber. Several Crystals were being forged into place on a large blade-like object being placed onto the front of the Ruination. Lady Shiva, Vrak, Bemulaire and Tokoyami all walked up alongside him as the rest of the Legion of Doom prepared for battle, with Vaapad Rage doing the same.
As the Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members were busy in assembling the crystals, one of them dropped several crystals. Darth Maul narrowed his eyes before reaching out with the Force, stopping them from falling minutes before they could hit the ground. He levitated them back into place before activating his lightsaber. Without a word, he tossed it at the careless Death Watch Devil, killing him on sight.
Everyone looked with shock before Darth Maul caught his lightsaber. "That was a warning," he said sternly. "These Crystals are not to be toyed around with. If any of them set off, it will be on all of our heads!" he yelled. "Now… be more careful… and get back to work!"
All of the Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members at work quickly went back to work on the blade for the Ruination, all without saying a word.
"A bit harsh to kill him for one mistake," Lady Shiva spoke up. "I mean, we all make mistakes, but killing someone for a slip of the hand?" she asked. "That's a bit excessive, with all due respect, Master."
"Mistakes in these times are something we cannot afford," Darth Maul said. "My Master always taught me to never make any mistakes, as the Sith are flawless in their abilities. Nothing must go awry in their planning."
"And so far, the Jedi are causing failures for all Sith!" Vrak added on. "Even Dooku doesn't operate correctly without any Jedi getting in his way!"
"Sadly, Dooku, Skorr, all of the Dark Side Sensitives of the Separatists, they're not enemies of the Jedi right now," Tokoyami stated. "Because we attacked them, both parties have joined together."
"And no doubt, are on their way to Crait as we speak," Bemulaire added on. "I had a strange feeling back on Castillon, that they were able to find out where we were operating. We couldn't stay hidden forever."
"Yes, I know," Darth Maul said with a slow nod. He watched as Tiber Saxon was placing the prism into place. "Bemulaire, I want you and Vrak to counter anyone who tries a ground assault on our base," he ordered the Vaapad Rage Leaders. "They will surely try something, and with Kinetica now out of the fight due to her injuries she gained from Najra-Va, we shall require you as a means of defense," he added on. "Expect any of the Light or the League of Shadows to attack," he told them. "Rocket currently holds an edge over us."
"Don't worry," Vrak said. "Me and my Sister won't let you down."
"Get moving." Darth Maul ordered.
Vrak and Bemulaire both bowed before their respective Vaapad Rage members joined them. The two got back up onto their feet again and walked out.
"I fought Obi-Wan underwater on Castillon!" Bemulaire whispered giddily to Vrak as they walked off for battle.
"Hope you were satisfied with your opponent," Vrak replied back. "Was he able to tell us apart from your looks?"
"No, sadly not," Bemulaire added on as Lady Shiva raised an eyebrow upon hearing the conversation. "Get this… he got our resemblance… by sensing the same darkness in me that you have. Can you believe it?!"
"Another one who took you for the darkness? Seriously?!" Vrak whispered. "It's always your looks that distinguish us!"
"I know, right?!" Bemulaire remarked as Gar Saxon listened as well. Rolling his eyes, he handed some Credits to Lady Shiva. "Looks are Bemulaire, darkness is Vrak."
"Told you." Lady Shiva smirked.
Darth Maul turned around. "With them now taking care of any incoming guests, I have something to ask you," he said to Lady Shiva. A smirk appeared on his face. "Who won the bet?"
"Her."
"Me."
"I thought so," Darth Maul said before walking away. As he did, he turned to Siren and General Zod. "I sense our enemies will be striking soon," he told them. "Mobilize the rest of the Legion of Doom."
"Yes, Lord Maul." Siren said with a bow before she and General Zod walked away.
Back aboard the Equinox, Ahsoka was looking to the already-built interior for the Kyber Crystal Ship. As she did, she was drawing several designs of ships on a notepad in front of her. Looking to the pre-built design, she turned back to the rest of the Young Justice.
"I think we can make this work," Ahsoka said. "We just need a couple parts we gathered from all our past missions."
"Counting all the lightsabers we got, I think that's possible," Kid Flash said. "What do you need?"
"Well, let's see," Ahsoka said, looking to one of her rough designs. "A Farium Fusion Conduit, proton suspension housing, an energy matrix converter, and Embersteel," she said. "All of that should provide this ship with the right amount of power that this kind of Kyber Crystal can provide."
"Ooh, then I'm gonna need a Jedi to match my speed too," Kid Flash said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Lots of those sound heavy."
"Don't worry, I've got your back." Serra said as she walked towards Wally. The two smiled before dashing off, leaving a trail of dust behind them.
Miss Martian looked to Ahsoka. "What do we need those specific parts for, might I ask?" she pondered.
"Well, I've had this thought of a special kind of ship going on in my head ever since we've had so many encounters involving a struggle over the Kyber Crystals," Ahsoka explained. "Imagine, a ship that has that kind of power, to have it not power up the blasters…"
"We're on that!" Kid Flash's voice called out.
"Well, we obviously need those too," Ahsoka said with a chuckle before looking back to the Young Justice. "Anyways, the Kyber Crystal wouldn't just be the source of the blasters, but rather, a blade that can cut through ships," she started out. "And shields as strong as Master Windu's lightsaber. It could change the tide of the War, during our alignment with the Separatists and after."
"Sounds impressive," Katana said, placing her Shadow Saber and the lightsaber she was admiring onto her belt. "There a name for this ship?" she asked as she walked over to see the sketches Ahsoka made.
"The Arrowhead," Ahsoka said, causing Artemis and Paula to grin. "Its sharpness and speed spell out its name."
"I like it," Artemis said. "And not just as an archer."
"As do I," Robin added on. "But how do we make sure that this doesn't fall into the hands of the enemy?"
"Well, Rex and I had a thought as we were disabling the tracker," Rocket said as she and Metamorpho smiled at each other. "What if we put a failsafe of our own into the Arrowhead?" she quizzed. "Only a select few would be able to operate it. Without the right authorization, it would just be a normal Starfighter in the long line of products."
"But we're still trying to figure out how to make that possible." Metamorpho admitted.
"Let me try to help with that," Robin said before looking to Jaybo. "Think you can help out too?" he asked. "I'm still new to doing Starfighters."
"Sure," Jaybo said just as Wally and Serra arrived back, the latter levitating all the larger parts needed with the Force. "You'll need my help on a complex failsafe like that, after all."
"Yeah," Robin smirked. "That's why I asked."
"Come on," Ahsoka said as she, Serra and Miss Martian started to lift the parts into place. "The sooner we get this Ship done, the faster we can put an end to this Operation Hell Saber."
"Who knows?" Artemis asked as she looked to the schematics. "We may even get more help from that Jedi again."
"What Jedi?" Ahsoka asked, confused.
"Well, back on Tehar, we had a little help," Artemis explained. "Someone with a green lightsaber saved us from Merlyn and one of the Vaapad Rage Acolytes, but we never saw who the lightsaber belonged to."
"Can you give me a description of what the saber looked like?" Ahsoka asked.
"Well, it was somewhat gold," Artemis said, recalling the lightsaber that saved her while on Tehar. "It had a guard shaped like an X, and it had a green blade."
"Sounds like a new one," Nomad said. "Have you seen anything like it, Ahsoka?"
"No, I haven't," Ahsoka admitted as she continued to lift the parts into place with the help of M'gann and Serra. "But we can find out more about this Good Samaritan later," she stated. "Right now, we need to get to work on this so we can get the edge we need over the Shadow Collective."
"I'm sensing they already know we're coming," Obi-Wan said as he walked over. "This new Fighter had better be worth it."
Back on Castillon, several members of Vaapad Rage and several Death Watch Devils were putting the finishing touches on the new front head of the Ruination. Darth Maul walked over and used the Force to put the Prism in place before all crystals lit up, all lined towards the Prism.
"My Master…" Lady Shiva said as she looked to the finished result. "This… this is magnificent."
"Yes, so it is," Darth Maul replied. "Now, we take this to Coruscant. The heart of the Republic will be the perfect first target for Operation Hell Saber."
"Lord Maul, we have a situation!" Rook Kast called out. "Two ships have emerged out from Hyperspace! Matching the Soulless One and a Solar Sailor."
"Dooku, Grievous," Darth Maul said before several beeps were heard on all the monitors. "So… the Separatists as well?" he asked.
"Two Dreadnoughts," Tiber Saxon reported. "They've already deployed their Fighters!"
"Then we shall do the same," Darth Maul said before pressing his wrist-comm. "Vrak, Bemulaire, I am sending N-K Necrosis to assist you," he said. "It won't be long until you two are overwhelmed."
"Much appreciated, Lord Maul," Vrak said over the Comms. "We will do our very best to hold the base."
"If this plan fails, we retreat back to Drazkel," Darth Maul said. "We cannot afford to be premature in this fight."
"Sir," Gar Saxon said, approaching Darth Maul and Lady Shiva. "All the Fighters are prepped and ready."
"Excellent," Darth Maul said in response. "We take the Ruination up now," he ordered everyone. "To your battle stations!" he called out. "Be ready when the Republic arrives!"
"Easy does it, easy does it," Ahsoka said as Serra and Connor placed several ship parts together. As soon as they were in place, Metamorpho and Saw welded them together. "Okay, that's the left wing done," she said. "Now, we just need—"
"Attention, everyone!" Admiral Dodonna called out over the speakers, getting everyone to look up. "We are about to come out of Hyperspace! Prepare for the attack on Crait!"
"We're not ready yet!" Superboy exclaimed.
"Okay, we've arrived early," Ahsoka said as she looked to what needed to still be completed for the Arrowhead. "It doesn't mean—"
As if to jinx herself, the Equinox emerged out of Hyperspace. Everyone felt the Ship rock as several Vulture Droids and Tri-Fighters flew by, chasing down several Mandalorian Fighters. As soon as they passed, everyone saw other Fighters engaging in dogfights across the space over Crait, red explosions going off all across the surface.
"Or we could be looking at the Battle that already started!" Anakin exclaimed. "Dooku wasn't kidding when he said he and his forces would be stepping in. I'm seeing half a dozen ships already deployed!"
"You'll have to go on without me!" Ahsoka called. "I need to stay here and direct the others so we can get the Arrowhead into the fight!"
"You'll have to bench me too," Connor added on. "Me, Jaybo and Robin, if we're to get this ship done faster."
"Right," Anakin said. "You four do what you need to do. Everyone else, onto the Bioship and get ready for battle!"
Ahsoka looked to her Padawan. "Katooni, take my Starfighter again," she ordered while Jessica powered herself up. "If we're going to put a dent in the Shadow Collective and the Ruination, you'll need all the firepower you can get."
"You're sure not kidding about that," Katooni said. "I won't let you down, Master."
"I know you won't," Ahsoka said. "Now get going!"
Jessica backflipped and flew out of the Hangar Bay, with several Y-Wings and Clone ARC-Fighters behind her. "Emerald Knights, on me!" She called out as the Clone Pilots followed behind her. "We might not be able to take down the Ruination, but at least we can put a few dents in!"
"I'm with you," Miss Martian said as she flew out while the Bioship flew down to the surface of Crait. "Artemis, if there's a base down there, take it out!"
"On it!" Artemis called out as she piloted the Bioship. "Katana, Metamorpho, hope you're all ready to fight!"
"Sure am," Katana said, readying her Shadow Saber hilt. "I've been waiting to give this thing a try."
Down on the surface, several Battle Droids and Super Battle Droids were firing at the members of Vaapad Rage outside of the Shadow Collective base. Several Death Watch Devils flew in and took out several Droids before several Gunships flew down. A Clone Commander came out of one of them with other Clone Troopers, wearing heavy armor with blue padding, grey hoods and swords on their backs.
"Commander Eulb-Repus and the 714th ready to strike!" The Clone Commander called out before he and the rest of his Troopers fired on the members of Vaapad Rage.
Vrak and Bemulaire growled as they deflected all of the blaster bolts sent their way. Two members of their regiment fell before one of the 714th Clones ran through, cutting down several Death Watch Devils and using his sword to lock with a Vaapad Rage member.
Rex and Fives landed with Echo, leading several of the 501st with them. "Take them down!" Rex ordered as everyone fired immediately upon exiting the Gunships.
"Let me try something," Fives said, taking out a shield with a Gatling Gun on it. "This is for you, Hevy," he said. "For the Republic!"
Fives fired his Advanced Gatling Shield, knocking the Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage Cultists like bowling pins. He yelled as he went from one enemy squadron to the next, taking them down.
"Fives," Rex said as soon as he shot down ten Vaapad Rage members. "Hevy would be proud of you."
"Shields up!" Bemulaire ordered one of her women.
The female member of Vaapad Rage nodded and held out a gauntlet with a crystal on it. Pressing a button, the crystal glowed, and a shield surrounded the Shadow Collective forces. As soon as it did, Bemulaire took out her claymore lightsaber hilt and let out a yell as she spun it around. The shield slowly lowered, and several energy waves were sent out from her lightsaber, destroying several Battle Droids and cutting other Clone Troopers in half.
"Good move, Sis!" Vrak exclaimed.
"We're not done yet, Brother!" Bemulaire called back, seeing the Bioship approaching.
Artemis fired the cannons down at the Shadow Collective forces, causing them to scatter, before Count Dooku levitated down once the Solar Sailor hovered over. Vrak and Bemulaire looked to him before Tol Skorr leapt down and landed next to him. The two activated their lightsabers and advanced, cutting down Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members in their way.
"I've been waiting for this." Vrak said, getting into a ready stance, in which Bemulaire did the same. As they did, N-K Necrosis crawled over. He got back onto his feet and activated his red lightsabers.
Vrak, Bemulaire and N-K Necrosis were about to attack until they heard several screams. Looking to the side, they saw General Grievous slashing away at several of the Death Watch Devils while fighting the members of Vaapad Rage at the same time. He sunk his clawed foot into one of the members of Vaapad Rage and crushed his chest before taking his lightsaber, using the one he previously had to throw at the head of another Vaapad Rage member.
"Even better." Bemulaire said with a grin, taking out her secondary lightsaber.
"Grievous is mine!" N-K Necrosis exclaimed. "I have a score to settle!"
"Hello, Vrak," Count Dooku said, approaching Vrak while Tol Skorr stood ready to take on Bemulaire. "So, you are the leader of this cult? This Vaapad Rage?" He asked. "I was expecting… more."
"As was I," Vrak remarked, aiming his lightsaber at the Count of Serenno. "The Sith Pretender, at long last. Such a disappointment."
"And you…" Tol Skorr said, aiming his lightsaber at Bemulaire. "You dare to call yourself a Sith?"
"I call myself anything that pleases our Dark Master," Bemulaire said, aiming her claymore lightsaber out. "You, on the other hand… I don't see much Sith in you."
"General Grievous, we meet again!" N-K Necrosis spat as General Grievous clawed away the face of another member of Vaapad Rage. He took her lightsaber before placing it in his other hand and turning to the darker-colored version of him. "I have been waiting for this encounter!"
"As have I!" General Grievous growled. He separated his arms and activated both Vaapad Rage Lightsabers he stole with two of his own. "It shall be satisfying to finish what I started!"
Vrak leapt in the air and slashed at Count Dooku, prompting Bemulaire to run at Tol Skorr, scraping her lightsabers along the ground, creating red sparks. As she did, General Grievous spun all of his lightsabers at N-K Necrosis, who spun back. All six of them locked blades with their respective opponents immediately on contact.
Inside of the base, Komari Vosa and Lady Shiva watched as the Young Justice arrived. Both looked to each other and nodded before Ma'alefa'ak floated over. The three of them sent the Ruination up into the air, where it used its thrusters to fully place itself into the battle above.
The Bioship landed, with Katana running out first, sprinting like a ninja. Two Death Watch Devils tried to fire at her, but she performed a split, punching to her left and kicking at her right, knocking the two in the necks. They fell to the ground immediately before she held her stance while eyeing Lady Shiva.
"Impressive move there, Girl," Lady Shiva said. "Now, I know you won my old Shadow Saber from me fair and square, so I'll give you the chance to get out of my sight and never return."
"How about I don't?" Katana quipped. She slowly got back into a proper fighting stance, the time of which allowed the rest of the Young Justice to emerge out from the Bioship.
As soon as the Bioship was empty, it flew back into space, where Miss Martian flew into it and landed at the pilot's seat.
"Alright, let's get this started!" Miss Martian called out, charging up the cannons. "Emerald Knights 16 to 20, stay on me!" She ordered as five green ARC-Fighters flew up alongside the Bioship. "Remember, we have to keep all the Shadow Collective away from the Equinox for as long as we can!" She reminded them. "Give Ahsoka, Robin, Drol and Superboy the space they need to finish their Fighter! Don't let any enemy fighter get even an inch close!"
"Copy, General," one of the Emerald Knights replied from his fighter. "Let's go!"
Out of Hyperspace, several Flag Ships bearing the symbol of the 31st Crime Investigatory emerged. Several Gunships flew out, some destroying the Mandalorian Fighters that engaged them while the others flew down to the surface below.
"Yejyo, think you can save some of the Shadow Collective for us?" Anakin asked as he watched Obi-Wan, Mace Windu and Kit Fisto fly to escort the 31st Crime Investigatory down to Crait. "I don't want to miss out on all the action."
"We shall try, Knight Skywalker," Yejyo said, piloting a gold streamlined Gunship down. "Keep up the good work up here in the meantime."
On the surface, Katana, Serra, Paula, Aqualad, Kid Flash, Metamorpho, Artemis, Zatanna, Rocket, Saw, Lux and Nomad stared down Lady Shiva and Komari Vosa. It was not long before the Legion of Doom arrived as well, with Tokoyami arriving in a black streak before landing on the ground, her lightsaber held at the ready.
"So, where's Tano?" Lady Shiva asked. "She keeping something from us, or was she too exhausted from our encounter on Shei'Ten Kar?"
"Oh, she's not tired at all," Katana said, readying her Shadow Saber at her side. "You should be more worried about how this Hell Saber operation will backfire on you."
"As if," Komari Vosa spat. "Maul has plans, and we intend to stay with him until they're all seen through to the end."
"In that case, there are cells waiting for all of you," Aqualad said. "Including for Vrak and Bemulaire too."
"You'd better keep dreaming." Lady Shiva spat. With that, she pulled her Shadow Saber out from her scabbard while also activating her two Double-Bladed Spinning Lightsabers. As soon as they were activated, her visor appeared over her face.
Serra and Lux activated their lightsabers as well while Aqualad readied his two Water-Bearers. Katana, on the other hand, spun around her own Shadow Saber hilt before activating two silver blades.
"That's new." Tokoyami mused as she and Komari Vosa activated their own lightsabers.
"A little modification I made some time after I won this from you," Katana said, aiming her new modified Shadow Saber at the female leaders of the Shadow Collective. "How you're ready for it."
"Bring it." Lady Shiva remarked.
Everyone let out their weapons and charged forward, letting their own battle begin.
Back up over Crait, Anakin was shooting down several of the Shadow Collective forces. As he took down six Fighters, Miss Martian flew with her squadron towards several of the Shadow Collective forces swarming over Crait. As she fired at them, Jessica flew by and took out several of the Mandalorian Fighters about to reach the Equinox.
"I got your back, M'gann!" Jessica called out. "Keep pushing forward!"
"Thanks! Means a—" Miss Martian started out before seeing the Ruination rising. "Oh, no!" She exclaimed. "All forces! Stay clear of the Ruination!"
"Copy, Miss Martian," Shadow Leader said as he led the Shadow Squadron away from the massive warship. "All Fighters, do not engage! Goes for Droid Fighters too!"
Darth Maul watched as the Fighters started to clear away from his battleship. "Very wise decision," he mused. He looked to Rook Kast. "Deploy the Devastator."
"Deploying." Rook said.
"Blade charged!" Another Death Watch Devil called out.
"Slice that fleet in half." Darth Maul ordered.
"Remember, those Fusion Cannons pack a punch!" Miss Martian called out as everyone kept their distance from the Ruination. "Quick runs…"
"Miss Martian, look!" Katooni called out, seeing what was happening on the Ruination.
Everyone looked to the Ruination as all the crystals lined up on it glowed. A line of light shone across until it reached the front. The prism up front crackled before it let out a snap-hiss sound, like a booming activation of a lightsaber. A dark crimson blade emerged, taking out seventeen Droid Fighters and one of the Separatist Command Ships.
"That's what he was planning," Jessica said. "This is Operation Hell Saber!"
"Launch the Fighters!" Darth Maul ordered.
"Um, M'gann?" Katooni asked, seeing several Mandalorian Fighters approaching. "We need to move!"
"Scatter!" Emerald Knight 16 ordered, causing everyone to scatter just as the enemy fighters approached.
"Ahsoka, how's the Arrowhead coming along?" Miss Martian asked as she evaded several Mandalorian Fighters. "We could use that miracle right about now!"
Ahsoka levitated another ship part to Connor, who used his Heat Vision to weld it into place.
"Working on it!" Ahsoka called back. "This is a complicated science we're performing here!"
"Well, since you're such an ace student in that subject, this should be easy!" Miss Martian called back from the Bioship. "Maul has already unleashed Hell Saber, and it really is a Hell Saber!"
Ahsoka looked out to the damage done to the fleet of the Allied Forces. "I know, that explosion threw us off when we were working," she said. "We know just how serious Operation Hell Saber is now."
"Any suggestions here?" Katooni asked as she evaded blaster fire from three Mandalorian Fighters. "I'm up for anything here!"
"What about the Portals?" Jaybo suggested as he placed some ship parts together on the hull of the Arrowhead. "We could sneak in and take down Maul, ending the Shadow Collective."
"No, that's straight up murder," Ahsoka said. "And it's not the Jedi way either."
"Plus, if by chance we find a Portal that leads into the Ruination, I'm betting Maul will get suspicious, and find out about it," Robin added on. "I'm not up for anyone else learning about the Portals."
"Same," Miss Martian said. "We need more firepower out here or else things are gonna go to Hell by that Hell Saber!"
"Keep it together, everyone!" Anakin called out, taking out the Fighters on Katooni and Miss Martian's tails. "Just keep going runs to the Ruination, and hope that we can do some damage on Maul."
"That's the best you can come up with?" Jessica asked. She flew through several Mandalorian Fighters before creating a shield that sent several blasts back at their source.
"It's the only strategy we have until we get some reinforcements," Anakin admitted. He looked to R2-D2. "Artoo, find all weak points of the Ruination, and focus fire on there!"
R2 beeped and started to scan.
"Keep pressing, Master!" Ahsoka called out, levitating several more parts together. "I just hope our friends down below are faring better than we are."
Barriss flew through the air in the Shadow Collective base on Crait, slashing at Tokoyami once she reached the ground. The two narrowed their eyes and pressed their blades hard against each other before flying up.
Katana leapt over Lady Shiva's spinning blades, evading getting cut in half before reactivating her Shadow Saber. She performed a reverse-grip slash at the former owner of her weapon, and pressed against her before turning around to focus her attack.
"This won't end in your favor!" Katana yelled.
"You wanna bet?" Lady Shiva asked. She deactivated the Shadow Saber and leapt back, just as several destroyed ship parts flew down. "That's your air support right there!" She taunted. "The Equinox and your Bioship will soon follow!"
"Like Hell they will!" Katana exclaimed.
Lady Shiva grinned as she levitated her two spinning lightsabers next to her. "Keep telling yourself that." She mocked before sending one of the lightsabers forward.
Katana gasped and slashed the lightsaber to the side. As she did, Lady Shiva slashed right at her. Katana held up her Shadow Saber in defense before grabbing one of the hilts. Separating it from her main Shadow Saber, she activated another hidden Shadow Saber within, now wielding two silver blades.
"I'll keep fighting instead." Katana remarked.
"So be it, novice." Lady Shiva spat. Her thrown lightsaber flew back to her, and it floated with her other one. Saluting Katana, she waited.
Katana held her main lightsaber, its thickness increasing, up to her face, and saluted back. Both she and Lady Shiva swung their blades down before charging at each other again.
Aqualad used his Water-Bearer swords to block several slashes from Siren. Slamming her Ikakalaka at him, he pressed back with a water axe. The two snarled and pressed against each other before she was thrown off. As soon as he had his room, Aqualad charged to confront her once again.
Metamorpho slammed into the ground, creating a shock wave that sent General Zod into the air. He flew down to attack, but Metamorpho grabbed his fists as he tried to punch at him. He held on as General Zod flew at him, pushing him back. As the two struggled for momentum, Kid Flash and the Reverse-Flash raced through, battling each other at their own speed. While they fought, Felix Faust swung his Scepter at Zatanna, who lit her golden sword on fire and countered back.
"You've stepped up!" Felix Faust mused before blasting at Zatanna, who was immediately shielded by Rocket.
"I've grown wiser." Zatanna spat back before slamming her sword into the ground, causing fires to surround Felix Faust.
"You can't hold a Kryptonian!" General Zod spat as he started to gain momentum over Metamorpho.
"I can weaken one!" Metamorpho spat back, making his left hand glow green. As soon as it did, General Zod dropped to the ground, but maintained his stance. Pushing Metamorpho back, the two punched each other at the same time.
Outside, Obi-Wan and Mace Windu were starting to cut through several Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage cultists. Mace Windu locked with one to see Count Dooku pressing on with a Makashi attack against Vrak, who countered Back with Juyo.
"Sloppy," Count Dooku spat as he blocked every Juyo strike sent at him. "A pity that only Mace Windu could truly master this form. Yours is only an imitation."
"My Rage will destroy you, Count!" Vrak exclaimed before attacking faster. He activated his second lightsaber and struck again, only for Count Dooku to evade him and eventually use Force Speed to dash to the side.
"Almost an improvement." Count Dooku taunted.
"You wish!" Vrak exclaimed, running at Count Dooku once again.
The Count simply swiped his left hand to the side, causing Vrak to be send crashing to the side. His growled and locked with Count Dooku once again, just as Tol Skorr backflipped into the air, clashing with a spinning lightsaber sent by Bemulaire.
"Pathetic!" Bemulaire spat as Tol Skorr landed on the ground. She caught her secondary weapon before throwing her claymore lightsaber, causing Tol Skorr to stop it with the Force. Grinning, Bemulaire leapt into the air and performed a Dropkick on her hilt, breaking through his defenses and causing him to be sent back as she held her claymore lightsaber once again. "I thought you were made of sterner stuff."
"Stop holding back, and I'll show you even more!" Tol Skorr spat before sending red dust at Bemulaire.
Bemulaire gasped and spun her lightsabers around quickly, sending the red dust to the side. Growling, she charged at Tol Skorr once again, locking with him.
General Grievous roared as he slashed with all four of his lightsabers at N-K Necrosis. N-K Necrosis snarled and blocked all four blades with his Double-Bladed Lightsaber, holding his ground against the Kaleesh Warlord.
"I bested you on Earth, and I shall do it again, Necrosis!" General Grievous spat, pushing at N-K Necrosis.
"Times change, Grievous!" N-K Necrosis spat before thrusting General Grievous away. "And so do the tides of war!"
"Then those tides will be shifted back by my hand alone!" General Grievous spat. Looking to a dead member of Vaapad Rage, he took his two lightsabers while placing one of his own onto his belt. Forming two Double-Bladed Lightsabers, he now held six lightsabers. Laughing, he spun them around and charged at N-K Necrosis again, the multiple colors of the lightsabers flashing brightly before everyone's eyes.
At the same time, Eliza was firing stun shots at several Death Watch Devils. As soon as they fell, Lenny used his baton to shock several members of Vaapad Rage into submission. Yejyo, on the other hand, walked calmly through, stunning and shocking Vaapad Rage members and Death Watch Devils left and right. He stopped in front of twenty of each fighter in front of him, all aiming their weapons at him.
"I can bring you in dead or I can bring you in alive," Yejyo said calmly. "What would you lads opt for?"
Immediately upon hearing this threat, the forty warriors dropped their weapons and put their hands up in surrender.
"Alive it is," Yejyo said as several of the 31st Crime Investigatory cuffed the surrendered men. "Be thankful. The former would have been quite messy."
Aboard the Ruination at this time, Darth Maul was watching as the Devastator continued to slice apart several ships. As it did, he sensed something. Turning around just as a Venator Shuttle emerged from Hyperspace, he activated his lightsaber and thrust it outwards, only to find a crossguard lightsaber on the ground.
"What is this?" Darth Maul asked, looking to the lightsaber. Cautiously, he used the Force to grab it before placing it in his hand. He inspected it carefully, seeing that it had the same colors as his first lightsaber hilt, with some of the same buttons and switches, as well as claw emitter shrouds like the one on Savage's own lightsaber. He flipped it, revealing another crossguard hilt on the other side. He activated it, revealing all six blades before a holo-projector fell. In Aurebesh, he could make out what it said.
CONSIDER THIS A GIFT
- STORMRUNNER
"Lord Maul, the Allied Forces brought more reinforcements!" Rook Kast called out, getting Darth Maul to place his new lightsaber onto his belt. "More Jedi!"
"Which ones?" Darth Maul asked, regaining his composure.
"It's Cere Junda!" Tiber Saxon called out. "And Jaro Tapal!"
"Hmm, those two, I see," Darth Maul said. He looked out as several Clone Fighters were deployed. "Jam any more incoming Hyperdrive Jumps from the Republic and Separatists into this Sector," he ordered one of the Death Watch Devils. "I will not allow any more surprises today," he said before pressing a button on his wrist-com. "Notimo, you may deploy the fleet," he said. "The time has come."
"Excellent, Lord Maul." The voice of Chop'aa Notimo said.
"Master Junda, Master Tapal," Anakin said as he fired down two Mandalorian fighters. "Nice of you two to make it."
"We will not be the only ones to join you, Skywalker," Cere Junda said. "More are on their way."
"And once they are, this fight will—"
Before Jaro Tapal could go on, another transmission came through.
"General Tapal!" a voice called out. "The Jump to Lightspeed failed!"
"Repeat, Master Monn!" Jaro called out, only for another transmission to come in. "Master Fay, what is your position?"
"Trapped in Hyperspace, Master Tapal!" Master Fay replied back. "My coordinates are plugged in, but my ship won't jump out!"
"Not good," Cere said as she headed to her Jedi Starfighter. She pressed her wrist-com. "Skywalker, please tell me you got those."
"I did, Master Junda," Anakin replied. "I don't know how they're doing it, but somehow, the Shadow Collective has managed to block every incoming jump to Crait."
"Seems we're your only backup now," Jaro said, entering his Jedi Starfighter. "All squadrons, let's make this count!"
"Do as much damage to the Ruination as you can, and don't let up!" Anakin ordered. "Master Junda, cover me. Master Tapal—"
"Skywalker!" Jessica called out as soon as her Ring started to flash. "Look!"
Everyone looked at the Ruination. Behind it, several new Command ships, each dark with five bridges and at least a fourth more the size of a Venator Cruiser, appeared. From them, more Mandalorian Fighters appeared.
"Those are new," Katooni said, her hand almost shaking before she slapped it. "Stop it, shut up!" she muttered before looking to Miss Martian. "Any thoughts?"
"Yeah, ask a pro," Miss Martian said as she turned to Anakin. "Any ideas?"
"Yeah, ask my Apprentice," Anakin said, turning to the Equinox. "Any luck, Ahsoka?"
"Almost done, Master!" Ahsoka called out, placing a few more components together. "This will be the first real field test of the Arrowhead, so don't get your hopes up about it just yet!"
"Considering I performed a real field test with a stealth ship the last time, I'll take my chances!" Anakin called back before activating his forward thrusters. "Give it everything you've got!" he ordered everyone.
"All squadrons, move out!" Cere called out, departing from her Cruiser with several Y-Wings.
"You heard them! Honor Squad, on the double!" Jaro Tapal called out, leading his own squadron of Clone Trooper Pilots out into battle.
"Spark, you know what to do!" Blackout said to Spark from his Y-Wing as the two piloted behind Anakin.
"Born for this, Sir!" Spark called out, firing at several Mandalorian Fighters.
On the surface, Katana was backflipping away from Lady Shiva and her five blades. Holding her main Shadow Saber in a reverse-grip, she deflected the spinning blades before locking her secondary weapon with Lady Shiva's own Shadow Saber.
"Give up yet?!" Lady Shiva yelled.
"Not a chance!" Katana called out. She pushed Lady Shiva off and tossed several shurikens at her afterwards before landing a two-step kick on her chest. As soon as she did, she landed and performed a sweep kick, felling her to the ground. She was about to land the finishing blow until hearing something behind her. Turning around, she locked with one of Lady Shiva's lightsabers before Lady Shiva herself got back up, striking at her from behind. Katana grunted as she held her ground on both sides, firmly holding her stance.
Count Dooku continued to slash away at Vrak, who continued to use Juyo against him. The Count of Serenno held his ground, backing away ever so slowly, and parrying each attack sent at him easily. Soon, he levitated the dust into the air and spun his lightsaber around, creating a red whirlwind that blinded Vrak. With him temporarily stunned, Count Dooku spun at him and slashed him down, sending him to the ground.
"Sloppy, just like your style," Count Dooku said, aiming his lightsaber at Vrak before deactivating it. "I was expecting more… more."
"Keep talking, Count." Vrak spat. With a close of his eyes, shadows started to form around him.
"Vrak!" Mace Windu called out, running towards Vrak.
Count Dooku started to catch on to what was happening and brought his lightsaber down just as Mace Windu did the same. Both blades missed Vrak completely, who disappeared through a dark portal.
Bemulaire was continuing to clash with Tol Skorr until she saw what happened to her brother. Growling, she gathered enough of the Dark Side of the Force before unleashing a Force Repulse, knocking Tol Skorr, Mace Windu and Count Dooku backwards.
"I think that's enough for today," Bemulaire said. Shadows formed around her as she grinned at Tol Skorr. "You'll see me soon." She said before disappearing as well.
"General," Tol Skorr said as he looked to General Grievous, still clashing with N-K Necrosis. "Don't let there be a third escape!"
"Don't worry, Novice," N-K Necrosis spat as he pushed Count Dooku back with his bare hands. "I don't intend on running this time!"
General Grievous laughed. "A dreadful mistake, Necrosis!" he spat. With that, he twirled all of his lightsabers around, sending red dust around him. As he did, he advanced on N-K Necrosis once more, clashing with his two blades with every chance he got. N-K Necrosis rapidly clashed against the six lightsabers before he eventually kicked General Grievous in the chest, knocking his lightsabers out of his hands.
N-K Necrosis slammed his blades down, but General Grievous kicked him, knocking his lightsabers away too.
"Fine!" N-K Necrosis spat, getting into a Kaleesh fighting stance. "We settle this like the Kaleesh we are!"
"I accept!" General Grievous spat, getting into the same fighting stance. "There is no need for lightsabers for born warriors!"
N-K Necrosis spun and threw a punch at General Grievous, who backflipped and placed his two extra arms away. As he did, he sent a strong kick at N-K Necrosis, who leapt up to avoid getting knocked down. As soon as he was in the air, he lunged back down and slashed at the ground with his clawed hand, only for General Grievous to roll out of the way before punching him in the face. N-K Necrosis punched back, causing some blood to spill from General Grievous's mouth.
The Droid General laughed before slamming his clawed foot into N-K Necrosis's own chest, causing some blood to spill from his own body. He laughed in return before sending a punch at General Grievous, who punched back even stronger. The two kept their fists where they were before breaking off, General Grievous getting into a low punch stance while N-K Necrosis prepared to deliver a downward jab. The two sent their respective punches, knocking each other in the heads.
"Not bad!" N-K Necrosis spat.
General Grievous coughed. "I could say the same." He replied.
Both Kaleesh broke off and kicked at each other, sending them further away. The two groaned before collapsing onto their knees.
"It appears we are evenly matched, General." N-K Necrosis said, panting heavily.
"Stronger than you look, I see," General Grievous said, panting heavily as well. "Perhaps I underestimated your skills." He mused, reaching for something behind his back.
"It appears I did too." N-K Necrosis said, reaching for something behind his back as well.
Both General Grievous and N-K Necrosis pulled out blasters and shot at each other. Everyone stood still to see what happened. After a while, General Grievous fell on his back while N-K Necrosis, on the other hand, lit up blue, before falling onto his front.
"General Grievous to all Allied Forces," General Grievous said, continuing to cough and pant. "We have a prisoner to take in."
Copy, General," Kit Fisto said on the other end of one of the communication lines. "We will take him in."
Back inside of the base, Nomad was clashing with several members of Vaapad Rag and deflecting blasts from C-3PX as well. He took out his blaster in his right hand and shot at several Death Watch Devils in the air before Rocket flew down, trapping Felix Faust inside of a bubble. Zatanna flew down and slashed at him before aiming her sword out, her wand now placed on the blade.
"Etativel mih dnuora eht esab!" Zatanna incanted, sending Felix Faust flying around the base before she flew up. Turning him upside down, she slammed him into the ground, where he regained himself with lightning magic.
"Guys, we got N-K Necrosis!" Nomad called out to everyone. "We need to make a Republic victory now that the Separatists have theirs!"
"Easier said than done!" Artemis called out, slashing away several arrows sent by Malcolm Merlyn towards him and Paula. She placed her swords back together and shot at him, causing him to dodge to the side before shooting several explosive arrows, causing large rocks on the top of the caves to fall.
"Look out!" Paula called out, unaware that one of the cannon turrets started to move on its own.
"Got you now!" Malcolm Merlyn called out, readying an arrow. As soon as Paula ran to save Artemis, he fired the arrow, only for it to suddenly get blasted.
Nomad, who was now clashing with Ma'alefa'ak, looked over in confusion. "What was that?" he asked.
The cannon turret turned and fired at the rest of the Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members, taking them all down. Everyone looked on in confusion before the same green lightsaber from Tehar flew over to Lady Shiva, knocking her two lightsabers out of the air, giving Katana the opening she needed to kick her to the ground.
"Anyone own that lightsaber?" Katana asked.
"Wait," Artemis said, looking to the lightsaber hilt design. "I know that design. It was on Tehar!"
Saw, who was now locked with Komari Vosa, turned back in surprise. "Who's there?" he asked before the lightsaber flew at him. He gasped, only for it to spin and disarm Komari Vosa before the hilt felled her to the ground. He turned back in surprise. "Not with you, obviously." He smirked.
Everyone watched as the lightsaber spun back to the shadows. Metamorpho reached out and caught it, only for it to disappear from his grip. Everyone looked to then see a figure in Jedi Robes catch it. The figure looked to them before walking away, deactivating the lightsaber and placing it onto their belt. The figure then somersaulted into the air and vanished without a trace.
"Who… who was that?" Kid Flash asked.
Lady Shiva panted as she looked up. She was about to reach for her Shadow Saber until Katana aimed her own down at her.
"Don't…" Katana said.
At that moment, red lightning shot down. Everyone, including all of the Shadow Collective forces, looked on in surprise, before Lady Shiva used this opening to take back her Shadow Saber. Slamming it down, she, Komari Vosa, C-3PX and the rest of the Legion of Doom fell into the shadows beneath them, disappearing.
"Not so fast!" Barriss called out, stopping C-3PX from getting away before he could fully submerge into the shadows. "All forces. C-3PX is captured!" she announced over the Comms Channel. "We have our victory!"
"Here's another!" Lux called out, shooting at Gar Saxon. As Gar Saxon was trying to shoot at Katana, he fired a stun blast, causing him to fall to the ground. "Gar Saxon is now our prisoner too."
"Good, now someone please help out up here!" Anakin called out as he led Spark, Blackout and Katooni away from another blast from the Ruination.
"I'm right with you, Skyguy!" Ahsoka called out. She levitated the last of the parts towards Connor. "That's all of them!" she yelled. "Weld it! Quickly!"
"Quickly it is!" Connor yelled. He flew up and welded all of the pieces together. As soon as they were, the Arrowhead was completed. Blue energy flowed from the Kyber Crystal powering it before lighting up.
"Whoa…" Robin said in amazement.
"That's incredible!" Jaybo exclaimed.
"No time to gawk," Ahsoka said, climbing in. "I'm taking the Arrowhead into battle. Everyone else, get to a Fighter and cover me!"
"Right!" Robin said as he and Connor made their way to a Y-Wing.
"Ahsoka," Jaybo said as he looked to Ahsoka getting the systems of the Arrowhead systems ready. "You sure this Fighter will turn the tides against the Ruination and Hell Saber?"
"I hope so," Ahsoka said as the cockpit closed. "If it doesn't, you'll be the first to know," she quipped before the cockpit closed all the way. "Let's fly, boys!"
"YJ Squadron, on us!" Robin called out as he flew the Y-Wing out, with Jaybo piloting the Eternal Saber. "And protect Ahsoka at all costs!"
On the ground, Fives continued to shoot at the Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members with his new weapon. One of the members of Vaapad Rage tried to strike him with his lightsaber, but he held up his shield, locking against him.
"That all you got?" Fives asked.
Fives broke off and emptied several rounds into the chest of the Vaapad Rage member who attacked him. Within a matter of minutes, he fell to the ground, lifeless.
"Attention, all units," Captain Rex called out to everyone. "Ground Forces taken care of."
"And ready to be taken in." Yejyo added on, bringing in his large share of prisoners.
"How does Yejyo do it?" Tup asked.
"Something to know when it comes to Yejyo," Captain Rex said, smirking under his helmet. "He never explains the way he does it."
"Indeed," Obi-Wan said as he walked over. He looked up to see the Ruination still floating. "Now, let's hope we can pull off a miracle."
As this was going on, a figure was walking over, walking over some of the dead Clone Trooper bodies. He looked to the helmet of one of the Clone Troopers, covering up the line that made the T Visor.
"And here I thought you guys were strong." The figure mused under his own helmet. Tossing the Clone Trooper helmet aside, he looked to see Captain Rex and the rest of the Clone Troopers taking several Death Watch Devils and Vaapad Rage members captive. He scoffed before disappearing, a roar of thunder sounding off as he vanished.
"What was that?" Tol Skorr asked.
"I… I don't know," Kit Fisto said. "Whatever it was, it's gone now, but be careful."
Unknown to anyone, a crimson and gold fighter took off from Crait and into space. The same figure inside of it looked to the Ruination. He held his hand out, trying to use the Force to remove the Prism on the front.
"Lord Maul, something is happening with the Prism!" a Death Watch Devil called out.
"What?" Darth Maul asked, looking to the Prism. He narrowed his eyes and held out his hand, using the Force to stop it from shaking.
From inside of the obscured fighter, the figure lurched back. He growled before plugging in coordinates and making the Jump to Lightspeed, away from Crait.
"Masters, I'm heading in," Ahsoka called out to Anakin, Cere and Jaro. "Clear a path!"
"Sir, we have more fighters incoming," Rook Kast reported to Darth Maul. "One from the surface, and two more from the Equinox," she said. "One of unknown origin."
"What?" Darth Maul asked in shock. He looked out, and saw Ahsoka piloting the Arrowhead. "Tano…" he snarled. "Prepare the Devastator for another attack," he ordered before stopping upon remembering the first part of the report. "What fighter from the surface?" he asked.
From below the Ships, a Jedi Starfighter with the colors of the Bioship flew up. The Mandalorian Fighters flew down, as did several other fighters, but the new Jedi Starfighter unleashed several blasts that caused the enemy fighters to glow first before exploding.
"Who is that?" Katooni asked.
"I don't know," Jessica said as everyone watched the Jedi Starfighter take on more Fighters. "But if it's helping to combat the Shadow Collective, I'll take it that they're on our side."
Darth Maul lifted Rook up by the neck. "You told me all enemy jumps to Crait were blocked!" he snarled.
"They were!" Rook Kast gasped. "I don't know how this one overrode the block!"
Darth Maul growled and put Rook back in her seat. "Ignore that fighter," he ordered. "Focus your attack on Tano."
Several blasts came out from the Ruination and fired at Ahsoka and the Arrowhead. However, a Kyber Crystal-Powered Shield appeared around it, deflecting the blasts to other enemy fighters.
"Not gonna lie," Ahsoka said as she spun around. "I didn't know that would work."
Several Mandalorian and Sith Fighters flew at Ahsoka, but she flew right through them, tearing them apart without firing a single blast. She spun around and released a series of blasts on more of the Fighters before making a run towards the Ruination.
"What does the scanner read on that Fighter's power level?" Darth Maul asked.
Tiber looked to a scanner and stuttered before letting out a growl. "It's over 9000!" he yelled.
"What?" Darth Maul asked. "Over 9000? There's no way that can be right."
"Sounds believable to me." Chop'aa said from his Command Ship. "Tano is making a run for us!"
"Ready the Fusion Cannon and the Devastator!" Darth Maul ordered. "I want her floating in the stars!"
Robin flew the Y-Wing at several Death Watch Fighters advancing towards Ahsoka while Superboy fired at the rest. Jaybo launched torpedoes from the Eternal Saber before his scanner and Robin's hologlove lit up.
"Ahsoka, they're about to fire on you!" Robin called out.
"This is where the fun begins," Ahsoka said, flipping a series of switches. "Deploying Embersteel Blade."
"Fusion Cannons and Devastator ready!" a Death Watch Commando called out.
"Fire." Darth Maul ordered.
A blade flipped out from the nose of the Arrowhead, lighting up blue like a lightsaber. As it did, it spun around.
The Fusion Cannon from the Ruination fired at Ahsoka, but her shield managed to hold against the blast. The blade on the front spun around faster before the Devastator released a blade, causing the Ruination to rotate slightly before flying back, almost performing a slashing motion just as the blade of the Arrowhead stopped at the front.
The Jedi Starfighter with the colors of the Bioship stopped, the figure inside of it looking on in surprise.
"Rowan, eat your heart out!" The figure said in amazement.
Everyone looked on in surprise. Both blades from the Arrowhead and the Ruination were now clashing with each other.
"Wow!" Ahsoka exclaimed, struggling to keep her momentum. "I didn't even think the Arrowhead was so strong!"
Darth Maul looked on in shock. "Full rotate, and attack again!" he yelled.
Ahsoka reversed the direction of the Arrowhead just as the Ruination tilted to the side, the blade still active. Ahsoka flew at the Ruination, locking with the blade again, before flying forward, throwing the blade off.
"Ahsoka! How are you holding up?" Anakin asked.
"Surprisingly, no damage," Ahsoka said as she flew back and forth, getting closer to the Ruination. "Does this look strange to you? Two ships with lightsaber blades clashing instead of two people doing it face to face?"
"It looks unusual, I'll give you that," Cere said, watching as the two Ships fought back and forth. "But I honestly think this is what's going to win against Maul."
"I think not even he can believe this outcome." Jaro mused.
"This is getting stranger by the minute," Darth Maul said. "Reverse thrusters back forty meters, then prepare to launch the blade!"
Ahsoka clashed the blade from the Arrowhead with the Devastator Blade again before the Ruination used its reverse thrusters to get to a safe distance away.
"What are you up to?" Ahsoka asked. She looked to the Bioship. "Miss Martian, get the rest of the Young Justice down below," she ordered. "If something catastrophic happens, I can't take the risk of you getting caught in the crossfire."
"I'm not leaving you here!" Miss Martian argued.
"M'gann, you won't," Ahsoka said. "But they need a pickup, and so far, this is the only Ship that can match the Ruination and Hell Saber. You don't have a choice."
Miss Martian nodded. "Artemis, Katana, prepare for a pickup," she told the Young Justice on Crait. "I'm heading down."
"Fire the blade." Darth Maul ordered.
As soon as the Bioship flew down to the surface, a large energy blade from the front of the Ruination from the Devastator fired at Ahsoka.
"Let's hope this works." Ahsoka said, putting the lever for the Embersteel Blade full thrust forward.
The Embersteel Blade powered by the Kyber Crystal lit up and spun around quickly. Soon, Ahsoka flew forward at top speed, sending out her own energy wave. It canceled out the blast sent by the Ruination's Devastator and cut half the crystals aligned on it. The rest of the energy wave sliced three Shadow Collective Command Ships in half as well, causing them to explode and fall out of space.
Miss Martian arrived back with the Young Justice, who were all just in time to see what was happening.
"Did she just—?" Nomad asked.
"She did." Katana said in shock.
"No way!" Anakin said, almost speechless.
Ahsoka narrowed her eyes with a proud grin on her face. She looked over to the Ruination, where Darth Maul had a look of horror on his face. Ahsoka charged up the Embersteel Blade again and flew straight at the Ruination, letting out a yell as the Fighter went at full speed. Soon, it sliced through the bottom of the Battleship, causing several fleet ships and Death Watch Devils to fall out.
"It can do that?" Superboy asked in amazement.
"Damage to the hull!" Rook Kast reported. "Losing power!"
Lady Shiva, Komari Vosa, Tokoyami, the Legion of Doom, Vrak, Bemulaire and the rest of the Vaapad Rage Forces ran onto the Bridge.
"Orders, Lord Maul?!" Lady Shiva asked. She looked to see Darth Maul, now speechless and the look of horror still on his face. "My Master, how do we proceed?!"
"Full retreat!" Darth Maul ordered. "Make way for Bracca!"
Lady Shiva nodded and looked to the other Shadow Collective forces. "Fall back!" she yelled.
All the remaining Ships and Fighters turned around. Within seconds, they made the Sonic Hyperspace Jump as the Equinox and the other remaining Allied Forces Ships fired at them.
Everyone stood in shock at what just happened. "Did we…?" Kid Flash asked.
"We didn't destroy Hell Saber… but we sent them running," Ahsoka said, letting out a sigh of relief. "I can handle that for today."
At that moment, several Jedi Cruisers jumped out of Hyperspace. On the bridge of one of them was Master Fay.
"Master Fay, reporting in," Jedi Master Fay said. "Hyperdrive Commands were finally overridden. Did we miss anything?"
"More than you realize, Master Fay," Mace Windu said with a chuckle as he, Obi-Wan and Kit Fisto, holding Gar Saxon and C-3PX with him, arrived back on the Equinox. "We'll explain to you on the way back to Coruscant."
"And now, we have a base on Crait to ourselves." Lux added on.
"Who's to say it doesn't go to the Separatists?" Tol Skorr asked.
"Pardon?" Yejyo asked.
"This was the first joint victory of the Allied Forces since the Battle of Lothal, a Planet we agreed to let the Republic keep," Tol Skorr pointed out. "We have not yet discussed the terms of other Planets."
"What?" Anakin asked as he, Ahsoka and the rest of the Young Justice docked back in the Equinox Hangar Bay. "You're joking."
"This is one of the issues we must address in our united forces," Obi-Wan said. "We shall discuss this back on Coruscant," he said over the Comms Channel. "Surely, we can come to an agreement over which Planets go to which side."
"Agreed, Master Kenobi," Count Dooku said as General Grievous and his MagnaGuards led N-K Necrosis to his holding cell. "Indeed we shall."
"We hope to see you on Coruscant, then," Kit Fisto said, placing Gar Saxon and C-3PX into their cells. "Hopefully, you have more stories to tell than me."
The figure in the Starfighter smiled. "Way to go, Godmother." She said before taking off into Hyperspace, away from Crait.
Ahsoka chuckled as she climbed out of the Arrowhead. Immediately, the Young Justice ran over to take a look at it.
"That is one beautiful Starfighter." Jessica said.
"I can't believe it actually worked out there." Artemis said.
"Neither can I," Ahsoka said. She patted the Arrowhead and smiled. "This is truly a ship meant to win against the Shadow Collective."
"We'd better use it carefully," Aqualad advised. "We cannot allow ourselves to become too overconfident by using this Fighter all the time."
"You're right," Artemis said before looking to Ahsoka. "The lightsaber I mentioned that saved us on Tehar…" she said. "It saved us again."
"Did you see who it belongs to?" Ahsoka asked.
"Someone in a Cloak," Katana said. "Jedi Robes, by the looks of it."
"So who was it?" Miss Martian asked.
"I don't know, but I hope we get answers soon," Ahsoka said before looking to Katana and Metamorpho. "You said that when you went to the future, you felt like you went through nothing in the past, right?" she asked.
"Yeah," Metamorpho replied. "Boring stuff."
"You said it," Katana said. "So much hype, so little to offer."
"Well, how about you stay with us for the time being?" Ahsoka suggested.
"Wait," Katana said. "You're letting us stay?"
"It should give you good enough experience to bring into the Future," Ahsoka said. "Plus, I don't know who else we will be meeting or sending into the Future, but we can give them the same opportunity too."
"Sounds great!" Metamorpho exclaimed.
"Hell, yeah!" Robin exclaimed.
On the Planet of Arvana-7, the Bioship-colored Jedi Starfighter landed down. Out from it came the same Jedi with the unique lightsaber. She looked around before the Starfighter took the form of a hut. Removing her hood, she was the same girl Artemis met on Tehar. She closed her eyes, and her skin turned to white like M'gann's White Martian form. She looked around before she took out a communicator.
"This is Jedi Padawan Asomei reporting," the White Martian said. "As promised, I have traveled to the Outer Rim to find Stormrunner. He was almost mine on Crait and Tehar, but evaded capture," she added on. "Master Skywalker, if you are listening, I managed keep contact minimal with the Young Justice, and as you said, things are not as easy as they seem," she reported. "I have also managed to avoid contact with my mother, as you requested as well, and my father too. My godmother has not seen me in action at all, so my cover is not blown. I will return only when I have captured the Supreme Leader's Hand, and only then will we become closer to knowing the truth behind the remains of the Empire," she said. "Asomei M'orzz, signing off," she said before hearing something moving. "And May the Force Be With Us."
At the same time, a figure arrived on Bracca, in a crimson and gold Starfighter, the same TIE Fighter, only with sharper edges, that was produced by the Light on Earth. Out from it came an armored figure with a red helmet, only with visible skin and yellow eyes underneath a visor. He looked around before hearing several blasters charge up.
"You're coming with us." A Clone Trooper said before several Battle Droids emerged with the Clone Troopers.
The figure only held out his hand, and out of thin air behind the Clone Trooper came a Double-Bladed Crossguard Lightsaber. It hit the Clone Trooper in the head before cutting the head at the jaw line. The figure caught it and ran at the others at an unbelievable speed, taking down each Droid and Clone with ease. Soon, he stabbed the last Clone Trooper in the chest before heading back to his Fighter. He took out a communicator and activated it.
"This is Jaune Stormrunner, reporting to the First Order," the figure said, removing his helmet to reveal a face with silver hair with black streaks, pale skin and golden eyes. "I have arrived at the time you have requested, but I have failed to recover the Prism. It is now in the hands of your former apprentice, Darth Maul," he reported. "I will recover it, rest assured, but I fear I have been followed," he added on. "I am currently on the Planet where the Shadow Collective is due to make its repairs," he stated. "I shall take back the Prism, replace it with your Obelisk, and ensure that your grand plans come into full fruition," he said. "Supreme Leader Snoke, Knight Master Dajik Ren, I promise that I will not fail you. Jaune Stormrunner, out."
At that moment, the Ruination came out of Hyperspace. Jaune placed his helmet back on before racing over to where it was due to land, the roar of thunder sounding off behind him.
Author's Notes: Well, that concludes this Arc. The ending leads into a special Christmas Chapter. I hope you all enjoyed this Arc. I've put a lot of work into this, so I'm hoping you liked it. Also, there will be new art later today to promote the newest Chapter. I will do my very best to make the Christmas Chapter worth it, because it will be something special, I promise. Please be sure to review, rate, and as always, if you can, Private Message me for anything on the Story. After all, I'm always keen to hear from you, so long as it's positive. For now, this is SuperHeroTimeFan signing off. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! See you soon!