Disclaimer: I do not own the Fett's, although I would purchase Boba in a split second if he was offered hehehe ;)
Sorry for taking so long with this update, I'm in the midst of my exams right now so I don't really have a lot of time to myself. Over Christmas I plan to get a few more chapters up so don't worry :)
Uh oh, things are heading Boba's way on Geonosis :( …
Iile
Boba relaxed back into the seat of the copilot's chair and watched his father out of the corner of his eye. Jango skillfully piloted the Slave 1 towards the asteroid belt of Geonosis, the planet where Count Dooku was waiting for them. Boba had to admit that he had been worried back on Kamino when his father had been fighting the Jedi; especially when Jango had been thrown off of the landing platform edge.
Oh well, it was over and the Jedi was most likely drifting at the bottom of the Kamino ocean or perhaps in the belly of some sea beast. He knew that he shouldn't have doubted his dad, but the Jedi supposedly were formidable opponents, able to use the mysterious power that they called the force. Boba wasn't familiar with the force and was skeptical about the abilities he had heard the Jedi could do, defying gravity, shooting electricity from their fingertips, reading people's minds… He had noticed that Obi Wan Kenobi had somehow called his weapon to his hand from across the platform back during the fight; proving to Boba that this force did exist. At least to some degree. Boba sighed. I thought the Jedi would've given Jango more of a fight, he thought as he glanced at his father again. Really, all he did was give him a few bruises and meanwhile he ended up dead in the wa… What the? A beeping on the control panel brought him out of his thoughts and he saw the outline of a fighter ship appear on a counsel screen.
"Dad, I think we're being tracked," he said, trying to hide his astonishment at realizing that the Jedi had somehow evaded death and managed to follow them.
Jango frowned irritably.
"He must of put a homing device on our hull. Hang on son we'll move into the asteroid field, there we'll leave a couple of surprises for him."
Boba laughed, thrilled with the idea of a fight in space. He had been in one before with his dad and it had been the most exciting moment of his life so far.
Jango pushed the ejection button for the seismic charges, wicked explosives that destroyed anything within the radius of their blue energy fields. Boba watched the screen attentively as the charge detonated. The Jedi skillfully piloted around the asteroids as they exploded into pieces around him. Jango set off another seismic charge but again the Jedi remained. Boba was silently glad for he wanted to see his dad fight him head on.
"He doesn't seem to take a hint this guy." Jango muttered, shaking his head. He swung the ship down into a drop and entered a wide fissure in one of the larger asteroids. The inside was honeycombed with white rock and Boba watched as his father easily moved through the increasingly small space. He looked back at the screen and saw that the Jedi still followed. Suddenly two parallel beams of rock filled the view port, the space between them too short for the Slave 1.
"Watch out!" Boba cried.
Jango expertly twisted the throttle and sent Slave 1 onto its side and safely through the rock. The end to the tunnel opened up and Jango maneuvered into a backward arc, sending them above the opening and behind another asteroid. There he hovered silently, waiting for their pursuer. Jango looked over at his son and grinned. It was amusing to see the boy so excited.
The Jedi appeared and the Slave 1 roared down from its hiding place, now becoming the hunter.
Obi Wan swore as he realized his mistake and twisted about the hunks of rock, trying to lose the bounty hunter.
Boba meanwhile was on the edge of his seat. "Get him dad, get him!" he cried. The Jedi's ship twisted again, landing him straight in front of them. "Fire!!"
The space around Obi Wan's ship lit up with laser fire. "Oh blast! This is why I hate flying!" he exclamation as he pivoted madly, using all his Force senses to evade the attack. The bounty hunter pressed on and Obi Wan's movements finally failed and the fire hit his left wing.
"We got him!" Boba said to his father.
"We'll just have to finish him," Jango replied, sending a homing missile after the Jedi.
Obi Wan swore again as the missile closed in on him and he knew that he wouldn't be able to out maneuver it since it was homed in on the metal of his ship. An idea clicked in his head suddenly as he swung around a huge asteroid. "R4, prepare to jettison the spare part canisters," he ordered. He flew into the thin space between two asteroids. "Fire them now!"
The compartments opened and the homing missile, limited in space and attracted to the metal containers, exploded behind him, taking out the asteroids with it. Obi Wan quickly diverted around another asteroid and landed on it, shutting his ship down as fast as he could. I hope this works…
Jango read the Slave 1's sensors and the outline of the Jedi's ship faded and disappeared.
"Well, we won't be seeing him again."
Boba chuckled at his dad's words and sat back in his seat, the excitement still surging through his body.
Jango sent the Slave 1 out of the asteroid field and headed for the atmosphere of Geonosis.
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Geonosis was one of the strangest places Boba had been too. The entire city that they landed in was confined underground and the twisting towers of rock and mud were the only signs of it on the planet surface. Jango set the Slave 1 down and grabbed one of the packs from a corner of the cockpit and disembarked. Boba followed with his own bag slung over one shoulder. The Count stood waiting for them at the bottom of the landing ramp and Jango nodded in greeting.
"Welcome Jango my friend," Dooku said, his rough voice holding a small sliver of warmth. "I'm sure you have much to tell me but right now it's best you get settled. A room has already been prepared for you and your son."
"Much thanks my lord," Jango replied formally. He opened up a compartment to get a crate containing more of their belongings and the Count turned to Boba.
"Well, it is a pleasure to finally meet the young Boba Fett that I hear so much of," he said, his gaze holding interest.
My father's been talking about me? Boba wondered.
Dooku sensed his thoughts and continued. "Jango holds you in high repute. Perhaps one day when you are a hunter I might need your assistance as well."
Boba smiled inwardly and bowed slightly. "I look forward to it my lord," he said, following his father's actions.
"Good, good," mumbled Dooku as he stroked his short white beard with one hand.
Jango returned and the Count motioned to one of the Geonosian guards. "Take them to their chambers," he ordered. "There will be a meeting in an hour Jango, I will send someone for you and your son." With that Dooku turned and departed down one of the dark corridors. The Geonosian buzzed and moved off, Jango followed with Boba at his side.
"How long have you known the Count?" Boba asked as they passed by a large porthole overlooking the vast droid building factory. Jango thought for a moment before replying.
"Fourteen years. I met him the year before going to Kamino."
Boba wondered if his father actually trusted the Count, even after all that time. Something about the man told Boba to keep on his guard but then again, didn't he do that around everyone? The rest of the walk to the room was in silence.
The guard left and they entered the vicinity that they would occupy until they left Geonosis. It was quite a difference from their old home on Kamino, the main living space was circular in shape with a large rock pillar set directly in the center of the room extending up to the domed ceiling. The light globes cast a soft radiance about the room and a small eating area was situated on the far end with two arched doorways on each side. Boba slid open one, revealing the refresher which consisted of a toilet and very small circular shower. The other door led to the bedroom where two bunks had been set up and Boba put his bag onto one of them. There were no windows or shelving units besides the ones above the table in the main room.
"Not much is it?"
Boba turned and saw his father leaning in the doorway.
"Bounty hunters don't need much," he responded.
Jango grinned slightly. "Exactly."
Boba sat upon his bed and took out a compact hologram database and began reading through it as Jango continued unpacking their few belongings. It would be a while yet until they were called for...
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Count Dooku was waiting for them in a large chamber surveying the factory. Jango and Boba stood off to one side as the Count motioned to the Geonosians to bring his other visitors in. A doorway swung open and he stepped forward in greeting.
"Ahh gentlemen, so good of you to come," he said, addressing the eight newcomers. "Please, follow me."
Boba and Jango waited until the group bypassed them before proceeding down the tall hallway Dooku had entered.
The Count led his guests into a large chamber and bid them to sit at the elaborately carved seats that surrounded a black marble table. Jango motioned for Boba to stay back against the wall where he could watch and took his place behind the Count. Boba was content to remain on his feet after the long trip to Geonosis earlier. He observed the others as they talked quietly between themselves. There was the Geonosian leader YiIJwo who took a seat beside Dooku, his drooping beard appendages quivering as he sensed the people around him. To his side sat the general of the Techno Union Army, composed of both flesh and machine. Boba had never met the General but had heard that he possessed a brilliant mind, having enhanced his intelligence by surgically implanting electrical wires into different areas of his brain. Interesting, thought Boba as his eyes ran over the metallic sheen of the general's armored bulk. Following him sat the Sakak and YoSakak, the Araalian leaders of the Banki Clan. The two aliens had hairless rectangular heads and eyes that sloped downwards at the outer edges, with long fingers adorning flat wide hands. They both wore expensive robes of Siciilaa fiber, the Sakak being the higher in command wore the Clan's colours of black and silver. His comrade wore the gray and maroon of the lower position.
The small Uai suddenly banged a fist onto the table in defiance of something that had been said by the Vortesk beside him. Boba had noticed that Lo'Biob had been agitated for some time now, constantly worrying over the Count's plans, always reminding everyone that what they were doing was considered treason by the Republic. The Vortesk beside him snarled in his native language telling the short blue creature not to worry over such matters. Lo'Biob did not look impressed however and crossed his thin arms in front of his chest. Count Dooku meanwhile was conversing with the leaders of the Trade Federation, the ones who had hired Jango to kill Senator Amidala. It was obvious that the Federation leaders were upset by the fact that she wasn't dead yet and Boba could overhear soft remarks about Jango's so called ability every so often. He glowered at the two from his place by the wall for saying such obscene things about his father. He knew that Jango had heard them as well however he wasn't showing it.
Dooku waved his hand signaling the beginning of the meeting.
"I thank you all for coming, my friends. We have much to discuss about our plans for the rise of a new order in the galaxy." He tapped a switch and a hologram of Coresant appeared over the table. "As you all know, Coresant is the heart of the Republic. Both the Jedi order and the Senate are situated there. These are our two greatest foes at the moment, however both are limited in force, the Jedi having two few of a number and the Senate's lack of military involvement. My tactic is to overcome these obstacles and put Coresant under our control. Once we have it, we will not encounter much resistance for we will also control the lifelines to the other parts of the galaxy. They will be helpless," he added, emphasizing the helplessness part.
"But how do you propose we take it? We will still be like mere insects to the Jedi and will be easily disposed of," asked Lo'Biob.
"Yes…and let's not forget the power of the Senate. They hold the allegiance of many systems," added the Viceroy. "We have already tried disruption of their order but that has failed, Senator Amidala still lives."
"She will die Viceroy, Jango Fett will make sure of that."
"But he is standing right here," scoffed Twaj, the YoSakak. "Why isn't he out now hunting her?"
Boba's glower darkened at the creature's words.
"I have personally asked him here today, the hunt has been postponed."
"But," started the Viceroy.
"Temporarily that is," soothed Dooku. "Do not fret. Things are proceeding as planned."
"I find that hard to believe," muttered Twaj. Uaaoq glared at his aide.
"You will hold your disgraceful tongue, my comrade," he hissed their native language. "I will not hear of you speaking so disrespectfully to the Count again!"
Twaj slumped slightly in his seat, his brow frames knitting together in discomfort at being shamed before the others. However he nodded apologetically to Count Dooku, who merely continued with his business. Apparently the understudy to the Sakak was not important enough for his full attention. This increased Twaj's irritation causing his skin to take on a purple tinge, his species way of indicating their mood. He suddenly lost all interest in the meeting and his eyes wandered. The darkness of the room and the cold, wet stone of its walls made him feel confined and agitated. It had been so long since he had smelled the fresh air of his home planet, a lush marsh of green with a violet and silver sky. He growled deep within his chest, hating the Sakak for bringing him along for this whimsical struggle over power. Nothing about this interested him in the least and he was becoming restless for being restricted for so long of a time.
Now who is that? He thought to himself as his gaze suddenly caught sight of a young boy standing by the doorway they had entered. Apparently he had missed the child during the walk to the conference chamber.
Boba sensed the alien's gaze on him and watched him from the corner of his eye. Something lurked behind the creature's sharp stare, something cold…something hungry. He kept his body still but internally he was uncomfortable, his muscles winding into tight coils reading for quick movement if necessary. He focused on his dad's armor covered back, the fine details etching into his mind taking it away from the leering of the YoSakak.
"As I explained to you earlier I am quite convinced that ten thousand more systems will rally to our cause with your support gentlemen," continued the Count.
"What you are proposing could be considered as treason," repeated Lo'Biob.
"The Techno Union army…" began the general but was cut short as his auditory speakers switched frequencies. He skillfully twisted the knobs on his chest and brought them back into proper range. "Is at your disposal Count," he continued.
"The Banki Clan will sign your treaty," guaranteed Uaaoq. Twaj nodded slowly in agreement, his attention brought back to the meeting.
"Good very good," said the Count pleased. "The Trade Federation has pledged their support and when their battle droids are combined with yours general, we shall have an army greater than any in the galaxy. The Jedi will be overwhelmed. The Republic will agree to any demands we make."
With those words the meeting was dismissed and Jango moved off to discuss the incident with the Jedi to the Count. Boba sighed and wondering what he would do next. Exploration of the underground passages seemed like the most interesting choice at the moment compared to going back to the bare room and waiting for his father to return. Since Jango had not prohibited looking around Boba moved past the guards at the massive arched doorway and headed in the opposite direction of which he had come; unaware of the shadow that followed.
The red stone of the tunnels glistened with droplets of water which formed from the large temperature change between the baked mountains of the outside and the darkness of the Geonosian Palace. Boba's footsteps echoed down the empty corridor as he randomly selected passageways to turn into. The sounds of the droid building machinery faded behind him and soon he found himself in a secluded section. The small corridors opened up into large foyers with elaborate carvings etched in the walls. Boba crossed over to a doorway that sat in between two of the more detailed carvings and entered the room beyond. A bare table sat at one end of the round space and old tapestries the colour of wine adorned the otherwise bare walls. The light globes flickered slightly, their power dwindling from neglect, bathing the empty room in soft shadows. Maybe at one time this place had been used for important matters but now it was nothing more than vacant space and Boba was slightly disappointed at not finding anything much of interest.
He sighed and turned to leave only to find the doorway blocked. He stepped back as Twaj of the Banki Clan moved into the light.
"My my, what are you doing way out here?" the alien asked, his triangular shaped eyes watching Boba intensely.
"What do you want?" ordered Boba, raising his hands in front of him defensively.
"I noticed your coming here and pondered what it is that would interest you so in this deserted part of the city," the being explained calmly as he folded his long hands together. The hairs on Boba's neck bristled as he recognized the signs of danger. He began edging towards the doorway, making sure to keep his distance from the creature. Twaj noticed and boldly stepped forward.
"Where are you going?" he asked, his voice lowering with annoyance. "I was just attempting friendly conversation, there's no reason to be fearful."
"Get out of my way," Boba growled.
Twaj smiled evilly at the boy. "Don't you care about your father?" he asked. Boba paused,
"What are you talking about?"
"Your father works for my clan you know. Major profits made for it, profits which he needs in order to take care of himself…and you."
Boba scowled at the alien and he slowly moved towards the doorway once more.
Twaj intercepted him, now much closer to Boba.
"Since I am the second in command of my clan, you wouldn't want anything to happen to Jango's employment rate, now would you?" Boba paused again and Twaj smiled as he stepped closer. "I thought not."
The alien's skin flushed with blood as he caught scent of the boy in front of him, the perspiration which clung to his smooth skin; so young, so vulnerable. The pleasure rolled deep within his gut as his eyes hungrily ran over the child's young body.
"Stay the fuck away from me," Boba snarled.
"Wrong answer boy. Your father would be most displeased with you if you cost him his hunts." He reached out his hand palm side up. "Perhaps if you do what I want that fate won't occur."
Boba had almost made it past the Araalian to freedom when the alien struck out at him with incredible speed. His long fingers collided with Boba's throat knocking his feet out from under him. Twaj pressed his knee against the child's heaving chest and his hands began undoing his long diplomat robes. "You don't understand little one, I've been in this hellhole without release for far too long" he spat. "You will provide much needed entertainment, oh yes."
Blinding rage overtook the fear that had grown within Boba, he was not going through this again! He slammed his palm into Twaj's chin freeing himself from under the alien and he frantically rolled onto his feet. Suddenly there came a stinging pain in Boba's neck and immediately his movements slowed. He reached up and pulled out a small round object from were it had embedded its long thin needle into his skin. The dart dropped to the ground as he swayed, the room tilting in sickening waves.
Twaj stood up and brushed off his clothes. "I'm sorry I had to do that young one. But I'm not really one to prefer a fight. I would much rather enjoy than struggle."
Boba collapsed to his knees desperately trying to keep himself upright as the Araalian approached. The long fingers grazed his cheek, he flinched away from the revolting touch, his stomach lurching within his belly. He made a feeble attempt to rise but was pushed onto his back by Twaj. The alien loomed over him,
"Shhh, just relax child. I won't hurt you…"
His strength fled as he panted for air, trying and clear his head from the drug, saliva frothing at his mouth making him choke.
"Don't fight it, you'll only make it worse." The hands placed themselves at the open collar of Boba's shirt, beginning to travel downwards. Boba's fingers brushed a piece of sharp stone as Twaj leaned over him, the creature's thin mouth inches away from his.
"You'll enjoy this," Twaj whispered to him through the dark. "Trust me…"
***Hey, my first real cliffhanger! Uh oh, what's going to happen?! (sees a bunch of angry Boba Fett fans running towards her, preparing to kick her ass for putting him through this again)…Ack! Gotta go!.....
(Oh yeah, the names of the people at the meeting are different than the actual ones because I didn't know what their real ones were…hope this doesn't bother anyone…)