Kendra ducked the droid's swipe at her head then leaped over a swipe at her feet. The clanker spun it's staff again but this time the Padawan parried the blow aside.
"That's it. Soresu isn't about meeting force with force but with finesse. Unlike other styles, it's focus is on maintaining your own survival rather then defeating your opponent," spoke Kenobi as he watched.
Kendra deflected another strike and rolled underneath a quick jab.
"At the start of the Clone Wars, a Jedi strike team rescued me and Anakin on Geonosis but the cost was great. Out of 212, only 14 survived the battle. I asked myself why did these 14 along with Anakin and myself managed to survive and I came to the conclusion was our training," explained Kenobi.
Kendra leaped back to avoid a swing and blocked a strike at her chest.
"Niman is the preferred style of the modern Jedi. A good style but most practitioners don't seem to go beyond the basics and why should they? Most Jedi had only had to deal with common thugs or mercenaries, not large scale warfare. So many people I considered friends and colleagues were gunned down. This has shown me the importance of a Jedi's ability to defend themselves against incoming threats and there is no better style for that then Soresu," continued Kenobi.
"I understand Master but can I start fighting back now?" asked Kendra as she continued blocking and avoiding strikes from the training droid.
"The purpose of this exercise isn't to win the fight but to last as long as you can. Sometimes you won't need to win a battle but just survive long enough until the right moment," answered Kenobi.
Kendra nodded before needing to duck from another swipe. For the next few minutes, the Falleen continued trying to defend herself as the droid's attacks only got faster and more unpredictable.
"Soresu is nothing more then radically changing from blocking position to the next. When your opponent strikes, you're just changing your guard. Never moving more then necessary and conserving your strength," lectured Kenobi.
Kendra knew the foundations of Soresu but this was a crash course into the advanced techniques. Most Jedi learned the style as Initiates and Padawans but only a basic understanding.
"As your Master, it's my job to make sure you're prepared to handle any situation in the greater galaxy. When you learn to master Form 3, you'll be ready for almost anything," Kenobi continued.
Kendra blocked a downward thrust and avoided a side swipe.
"Soresu is more then just a set of movements but also a mind set. Form 3 has often been described as battle mediation where your mind drifts into the Force while your body continues to fight," explained Kenobi.
Meditating while fighting? How exactly was Kendra supposed to calm her mind and meditate while someone was trying to kill her?
She get to ask any of her questions as Kenobi's communicator began beeping. He was getting an incoming call.
"Halt program," Kenobi spoke. The training droid froze and stood at attention. Kendra breathed a sigh of relief as she finally got a chance to relax.
Kenobi pulled out his communicator off his belt and activated it. A holographic image formed that Kendra instantly recognized as Senator Padme Amidala.
"Senator Amidala," greeted Kenobi.
"Hello Master Kenobi," nodded Padme. "I was hoping we could speak in person. It's important."
"Of course. Where are you now?" inquired Kenobi.
"At my office," answered Padme.
"I can be there in less then an hour," replied Kenobi.
"Thank you so much Master Kenobi," smiled Padme before the transmission ended.
"You better come along too," Kenobi told his Padawan. "It's about time you got your feet wet in the quagmire that is politics."
The two Jedi arrived at the Senate Office Building and made their way to Padme's office. Despite her status as one of the most influential senator in the Senate, Padme kept a very modest work space.
Kenobi and Kendra were quickly invited inside by an aide and found Padme waiting for them.
"Thank you so much for agreeing to see me so quickly Obi-Wan," greeted Padme.
"Of course Senator. You remember my Padawan?" asked Kenobi.
"Yes. Good to see you again Kendra," smiled Padme.
"You too ma'am," replied Kendra.
The Senator turned her attention back to Obi-Wan. "I was told that you were in command of the Battle Group in Kalabra."
"Yes. As you're probably aware, Grievous managed to take the planets Falleen and Drunkenwell before Anakin defeated him at Bothawui. Ever since then, Grievious has reinforced Falleen and we believe he's probing for weaknesses among the nearby star systems. My fleet is stationed at Kalabra to cut Grievious off from any attempt to push further into the Mid-Rim," explained Kenobi.
"Yes and I'm not going to disagree on your tactics Master Kenobi. However, I've been in contact with Senator Farr of Rodia and he said that the situation on his home world is dire. If you didn't know, Rodia is unable to produce enough food for their population," said Padme.
"Why?" asked Kendra.
"Centuries of pollution and warfare has rendered most of the planet uninhabitable for the Rodians. As if that wasn't bad enough, pirates have stepped up their raids on shipping lanes in the entire sector which has essentially cut off any aid to Rodia," explained Padme.
"The Rodians have already began food rationing but unless they start receiving their food shipments soon, their people will starve," added a dejected Padme.
"What do you need from me?" asked Kenobi.
"I need military ships to provide protection for food convoys and you have the closest fleet near Rodia. Just a handful should deter any pirates from attacking them," answered Padme.
Kenobi frowned, "Republic Intelligence estimates that Grievous's fleet is slightly larger then my own and I'll need every ship I can should he attack. I'm not sure the Jedi Council would approve diverting any ship."
"I wouldn't be asking unless it was important," sighed Padme.
"Adding military escorts might only escalate the situation Senator. Right now Grievious isn't interested in freighters carrying supplies but if they're escorted by Republic cruisers, the Separatists will shoot them on sight," Kenobi stated.
"Doesn't Rodia have any kind of military or self defense force?" Kendra asked. She'd been quiet, letting her master take the lead on this but felt the need to at least speak.
"Rodia has never had a large military. Most of their ships were destroyed over the past few months trying to push the pirates out of the sector but for every pirate ship destroyed, another one just seems to pop up to replace it. That's why the Senate is now reluctant to send any more shipments," answered Padme.
"As I said before, I don't have many ships to spare but I'll talk to the Council," said Kenobi.
"Thank you Obi-Wan. With a military escort, I'm hoping the Senate will resume the shipments," thanked a grateful Padme.
"Hoping?" frowned Kendra. "Rodia is a member of the Republic. It's the Senate's duty to send aid when requested."
Kenobi threw his Padawan a look and she quickly realized she overstepped.
"Things are rarely as simple as we want them to be Kendra," Kenobi remarked.
"Yes Master," nodded Kendra.
"However, I must say it is really curious the pirates have been able to seemingly outlast the Rodian Defense Force in war of attrition. To replace their numbers so quickly and for so long is unusual for brigands," pondered Kenobi.
"You suspect something at work here?" wondered Padme.
"The Jedi Council has been hearing rumors that the Separatists were arming pirates vessels and using them to harass our supply lines. Cutting off worlds from any shipments would be an effective way to persuade affected worlds to petition the Separatists for aide and allowing them to take entire planets without a shot fired," remarked Kenobi.
"If that was happening, would the Council sent ships then?" asked Kendra.
"We would have to at that point as it would a military affair and not a local one. Still the Council would want proof of this before taking any action," replied Kenobi.
"I'm taking a ship to Rodia with all the supplies I can carry. Once I'm there, I'm sure Senator Farr would cooperate with any investigation into the matter," Padme spoke up.
"Excellent then my padawan will join you," smiled Kenobi.
"What?" gasped Kendra.
"Kendra I'm sending to Rodia to be my eyes and ears. Gather whatever information you can on the pirates and report back to me. Also help Senator Amidala with any relief effort if you can spare the time," Kenobi said.
"I'd be happy to have her along," smiled Padme.
"You're sending me alone?" whispered Kendra, not wanting Padme to know that she's never been on a field assignment by herself before.
"I can't leave. I still need to oversee the resupply to my fleet but you can travel to Rodia and back before you know it. Just interview survivors of the battles and examine the sensor logs from their ships. It should be any easy mission," Kenobi whispered back.
Kendra was stirred from her meditation as the ship she was on suddenly shifted directions. Even with the inertia dampeners wasn't enough to compensate for the sudden turn and the Padawan found herself falling to the floor.
The only reason Padme would be conducting such maneuvers was because the ship was under attack. It made sense as the hyperspace routes to Rodia passed through several battle zones between the Republic and Separatists. Padme believed that a single ship could sneak the lines unnoticed but there was still plenty of risk.
Kendra rushed onto the bridge and saw Padme in the pilot's chair and her fellow Senator Jar Jar Binks sitting on top of C-3PIO. From the look of things, Jar Jar must have fallen on top of the droid during the ship's sudden evasive maneuvers.
"What's happened? Are we under attack?" asked Kendra.
"We're fine Kendra. That was just some...technical difficulties," Padme said, glancing at Jar Jar. The Gungan winced, embarrassed over something.
A fizzled hologram re-materialized on the control console, revealing Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. Padme must have been speaking with him before whatever happened.
"May I recommend that only those who are qualified for these delicate peace talks participate in them?" Palpatine suggested.
"I will follow your advice Chancellor. Thank you," sighed Padme.
The Chancellor's image vanished as the transmission ended. An embarrassed Jar Jar got to his feet then helped C-3PO up as well before leaving the cockpit.
"Let us not do that again," remarked C-3PO.
"3PO could you check the supply inventory one last time," Padme requested.
"Certainly my lady," the droid stated before leaving the room.
"What was that about?" asked Kendra.
"It's nothing. Jar Jar means well but he can sometimes be...clumsy," explained Padme.
"By clumsy, you mean hitting some button he wasn't supposed to push?" guessed Kendra.
"Like I said, he means well," sighed Padme.
Kendra took a seat in the co-pilot's chair. "He must be a good friend then if you keep him around despite inadvertently turning the ship into a pod racer," she commented.
Padme chuckled, "I can say there's no one else on the Galactic Senate more noble or principled then him. He always want to help others even if he can't do it as well as he likes."
The two observed the green planet of Rodia getting bigger on the view screen. Kendra had done some research on the planet's history and Padme was correct about the Rodian's issues. Most of the planet was inhospitable to them, forcing them to live in cities covered in domes. While the terrain might be difficult for the Rodians, there was plenty of lifeforms still on the surface that not only survived but thrived.
Kendra always enjoyed wildlife as long as she could remember. Learning how to connect with animals was part of an initiate's training as the Jedi Temple but Kendra thrived at it. She always took any opportunity to commune with wildlife. Animals didn't think the same way as sentients so you didn't feel their thought but more like their emotions.
Kendra's favorite past time was touching the mind of a small convor as it flew around the branches of the Great Tree on the Jedi Temple Courtyard. She could feel the wind breezing through the bird's leaves as it soared through the air as if she were flying herself. Her fellow initiates thought she spent too much time around animals though truthfully aside from Ahsoka Tano, Kendra didn't really have many friends in the Order. Maybe that's why she enjoyed animals so much because she got along with them better then sentients.
"By the way. I'm sorry about Falleen. I've been told that Grievous's occupation of the planet has been exceptionally cruel to your people," Padme said.
"It's okay Senator. While I'm sorry that my people are suffering, I don't really feel an attachment to them. Don't get me wrong. I want to help them but I don't feel a priority to help them over anyone else. It's the Jedi way," explained Kendra.
"I understand," nodded Padme.
The shuttle landed on a domed compound that was the personal living quarters of Senator Onaconda Farr as well as his office on Rodia. Padme had went ahead to speak with the Senator who was an old friend. She'd hoped to convince him to keep Rodia from breaking away from the Republic while also delivering what little supplies they could.
Kendra and Jar Jar stayed behind to help off load the supplies. It wasn't much but at least it was something to help the Rodians. While unloading crates filled with food, some noise coming from the nearby swamps caught Jar Jar's attention.
Kendra watched as the gungan moved closer to the edge of the landing pad. In-between the shield dome and the pad was a small marsh area that allowed wildlife to filter inside while holding back the larger predators.
Something was making noises inside the marsh and they didn't sound friendly.
"How rude!" remarked an outraged C-3PO. "I'm afraid the local wildlife doesn't have a very high opinion of us."
"Whatden dey speaking?" asked Jar Jar.
"I couldn't possibly repeat it," replied C-3P0.
"Ah theese swamp dwellers just like meesa. I will convince them of our good fellowship," stated Jar Jar.
"Senator perhaps we should get back to offloading the supplies," suggested Kendra. She had a funny feeling this wasn't going to end well.
The Gungan began trying to speak back to the wildlife but his attempts sounded more like gibberish then an actual language.
"Is he even speaking the right language?" Kendra asked C-3P0.
"I'm not sure his communication attempts qualify as language," sighed the protocol droid.
"Meesa made contact," Jar Jar said proudly as the unseen creature in the marsh responded to him.
"Oh dear," sighed C-3P0.
"Senator I really think we should get back to work," urged Kendra.
Jar Jar continued trying to speak the language at least until a series of mud balls came flying out of the marsh. The Gungan and Kendra ducked but C-3PO was hit in the face.
"I don't think that requires translation," grumbled C-3PO. Jar Jar wiped the mud off the protocol droid's face while Kendra got back to work.
The docking bay entrance opened and Kendra was expecting someone to pick up the supplies. Instead, a dozen Trade Federation battledroids marched inside.
"Oh my stars. Battle droids!" exclaimed C-3P0.
"There's the Jedi," one of the droids said, indicating Kendra.
The padawan quickly rushed to cover as the mech opened fire. What were battle droids doing on Rodia? Was the planet invaded and occupied? Rodia was on the edges of the Republic so it was possible. Kendra didn't know the answer but had more important things to worry about.
Jar Jar had rushed up the docking ramp into Senator Amidala's ship and was attempting to close the ramp but C-3P0 wasn't fast enough to keep up with him. The gungan attempted to pull up the protocol droid but instead slipped out and the two fell to the floor. The docking ramp closed behind them, preventing them from getting back onboard without first opening it back up again.
"Unbelievable," grumbled Kendra. She pulled out her lightsaber and ignited it. The padawan dashed from cover and cover closer to the droids all the while the clankers continued to fire away. When Kendra was close enough, she leaped into the air and came down right in the middle of the droid squad. Within a matter of seconds, she slashed and hacked away into pieces.
"I knew...this was a...bad...i...dea," one of the droids uttered before going offline.
Kendra turned back to Jar Jar and C-3P0 to see if they were alright. What she saw could barely defy comprehension. The protocol droid had somehow gotten trapped on the mag crane while the gungan was on the floor with his foot caught on a cable that had also wrapped around the crane controls.
"What in the galaxy happened?" Kendra asked flabbergasted.
"Jar Jar happened," grumbled C-3P0.
Kendra could hear the docking bay doors open again. She turned to see three Destroyer droids stepping inside. This was a problem. The droids activated their shields and opened fire, forcing Kendra to take cover. Normally, she would use a pincer attack with Master Kenobi or Ahsoka to divide up their attention and be able to close in and take them out. Unfortunately, all she had for back up was Jar Jar and C-3P0. Kendra didn't like her odds.
Suddenly, the crane carrying C-3PO swung past her and hit the destroyer droids with so much force that their shields were of no help. The clankers were smashed into junk.
Kendra turned back to Jar Jar to the Gungan getting back to his feet at the crane controls.
"Nice job Senator," Kendra congratulated.
"What? Meesa did something?" asked a confused Jar Jar.
"Never mind," grumbled Kendra. Of course the one good thing the senator did was unintentional.
The docking bay doors opened up again, this time it was a crab droid. This day just gets worse and worse. The droid opened fire on Kendra who quickly rushed behind a cargo crate.
"Jar Jar watch out!" C-3P0 shouted as the droid started firing on the Gungan.
Knowing the senator wouldn't last a minute against that crab droid, Kendra rushed out from cover.
"Hey rust job over here!" the Falleen shouted. That did the job as she got the droid's attention. She took off running as fast as she could, deflecting every shot that got too close to her as she rushed around the room, leading her attacker on a wild bantha chase while also luring it closer to a stack of cargo crates.
Kendra hid behind the stack and waited as the droid advanced closer. Once it was about ready to charge right through the crates to get her, Kendra held up both her hands and sent a telekinetic wave that knocked the crates right onto the droid.
The crab droid was momentarily stunned as shoved off every crate that landed on it off. Seizing the moment, Kendra lunged in with her lightsaber, slashing away at the droid's legs. It collapsed to the ground, helpless as the padawan finished it off with a stab to the head.
Kendra breathed a sigh of relief as she turned back to Jar Jar and saw the gungan at the crane controls. He tapped a button, dropping C-3P0 from the mag crane to the floor.
"Ouch!" exclaimed C-3P0. "Jar Jar kindly don't do that."
"But Meesa save you," replied Jar Jar. He leaned on the console, causing his elbow to touch one of the buttons. The crane swung around and hit Senator Amidala's ship, breaking it in half.
Kendra and C-3P0 stared at the damage in disbelief while Jar Jar gulped nervously.
"If people like him are in the Senate, I'm starting to see why nothing ever get's done there," Kendra grumbled underneath her breath.
"Thisa one big mess. Wesa going nowhere," remarked Jar Jar as they shifted through what was left of the bridge of Senator Amidala's Nubian Yacht.
"The communications systems is smashed. We won't be able to call for help from here," sighed Kendra as she finished assessing the damage to the control consoles.
"Oh lookee. Here's a button that's still working," said Jar Jar who immediately pressed the button.
"Senator..." protested Kendra. Thankfully only a small compartment opened up in the back of the bridge.
"What did you break now?" sighed C-3P0.
"Meesa doing nothing," replied Jar Jar. Kendra wished he really did do nothing. It would make their lives much easier.
Kendra, Jar Jar, and 3PO glanced inside only to find a cloak.
"Thatsa looken like a Jedi robe," commented the Gungan.
"Senator plenty of other people used robes aside from Jedi," Kendra pointed out.
"Whosa you supos'n this belongs to?" wondered Jar Jar.
"Uh..." stuttered 3PO.
"Doesn't matter. It's not going to help us," sighed Kendra.
"Indeed so our only hope is to hide in this closet until Mistress Padme returns," said 3PO.
"If those droids attackin us, Padme's probably in trouble," stated Jar Jar.
"Jar Jar's right. Senator Amidala's in danger," agreed Kendra. "I want the two of you to find someplace to hide."
"Whatsa about you?" asked Jar Jar.
"I'm going to find the communications center for this facility and contact my master. He'll send us reinforcements," said Kendra.
"But what about Padme?" Jar Jar inquired.
"Senator we don't know how many droids are here but we're most likely outnumbered. We need help. Besides even if we rescue Senator Amidala from wherever she is, we still need a ship to get out of here," Kendra explained.
Jar Jar sighed, "I understand."
"More droids might come so take 3P0 and find someplace to hide," Kendra said. She also gave her com frequency in case of an emergency.
"Not exactly how I wanted my first solo mission to go," grumbled Kendra as she hide behind a pillar. A patrol of five battle droids passed her by. She could have easily taken them but they might contact reinforcements and Kendra right now wanted to get to the coms center as quietly as possible.
The Falleen padawan could still remember being in the Jedi Temple just a few months ago and now here she was being thrust into a life and death situation with minimal experience. Kendra was really starting to wish Master Kenobi had more time to train her. Ahsoka excelled when put in this kind of situation as she carried Jabba's son to safety by herself. It would be really nice if she were here right now.
As soon as the droids were out of sight, Kendra continued down the corridor. The compound didn't seem to be heavily guarded and several Rodians walked freely through the area which meant whatever occupation going on here was minimal. Maybe the Separatists were trying to keep from angering the locals too much. That would certainly make ruling over them easier.
Hopefully that would mean Kendra could get to coms center without incident and call for backup. After that, she could simply find a place to hide and wait for the calavry to show up.
She heard footsteps coming through the outer commons and once again hid. Kendra suspected the coms center was somewhere inside the main building so that's where she would start her search after this patrol passed by.
"We are holding the senator in the detention tower," someone spoke.
"I hope it is not too painful for her," someone else replied.
Well that settles it then. Senator Amidala was captured but she was safe at least for the moment. Kendra would have to look for the detention tower once she called for help.
"Look a Jedi!" a droid called out.
Kendra gulped, thinking for a moment she'd been discovered. She glanced out from hiding to see the battledroids were looking at her but at Jar Jar and C-3PO. For some reason, the gungan was wearing that cloak that was inside the closet on Amidala's ship.
"Oh no," groaned Kendra.
"The Jedi's still alive?!" screamed a familiar looking Neimodian. It took a second to recognize him as Nute Gunray of the Trade Federation.
The former Viceroy had throw his lot with the Seperatists and was now one of the Confederacy of Independent Systems' highest ranking official. The Trade Federation of course disavows his actions and claims that Gunray is a traitor though many in the Jedi still believe that the Federation maintains secret ties to him.
"Jedi? Where's a Jedi?" Jar Jar asked, looking around.
"I do believe they mean you," replied 3PO.
"Meesa not a Jedi," Jar Jar stated.
"Kill the Jedi," Gunray ordered his droids.
The battle droids trained their weapons on the Gungan and Kendra quickly sprang into action. She activated her lightsaber and dashed in front of the battledroids, deflecting all their shots aside.
"You didn't say there'd be two of them!" screamed Gunray to a Rodian before they both rushed into the main building.
"Run!" Kendra shouted at Jar Jar and 3PO. Neither of them had to be told twice before they ran though the protocol droid obviously slower.
More battle droids emerged from the main building as well as from other parts of the compound. Destroyers rolled into view. Kendra knew if she stayed her she was as good as dead so she took off, deflecting a few blaster bolts that got too close to her.
Even more droids emerged seemingly from all directions. So much for a small occupying force. The droids were trying to surround her and unfortunately, they were succeeding. If she didn't get cover quick, Kendra would be overwhelmed.
The padawan took cover behind a pillar but unfortunately, there was nowhere else to run to. The droids now advanced on her, firing away. Kendra took a deep breath to calm herself and braced herself for the end.
Suddenly the grate near her feet opened up. Kendra readied to attack until she saw Jar Jar's head up popped up out of the water.
"Yousa come," the gungan insisted.
Kendra didn't argue as she took a deep breath and followed Jar Jar down the grate and into the depths underneath the compound. Fortunately a Falleen could hold their breath for over half an hour so the padawan didn't need to worry about getting air anytime soon.
Kendra and Jar Jar swam away from the grate, putting some distance away from where the droids were converging. They'd be confused perhaps for a moment but eventually the clankers would get their act together and start searching the marsh underneath the compound.
They pushed their way through various seaweed only to bump right into a very large slug-like creature. It had two large yellow eyes and a massive mouth that could easy swallow the padawan and senator whole. It had multiple small legs and a large tail, making it capable of swimming underwater as walking on solid ground.
Kendra remembered the reports she read about local wildlife on her trip to Rodia and recognized it as a Kwazel Maw. While they were incredibly strong with a thick durasteel-like hide, they preferred to eat small fish rather then anything the size of people. Still they could turn aggressive if they believe they or their offspring were threatened.
The Maw let loose a loud moan and swam closer. Jar Jar let loose a muffled scream with bubbles shooting out of his mouth. While he took off swimming, Kendra just couldn't resist connecting with the animal's mind via the Force.
She swam right up to the large creature as it's eyes stared at her. Kendra could sense it was more curious then hungry. She reached out and touched it's forehead, gently scratching it. The Maw seemed to enjoy that. Satisfied that the intruders weren't a threat, the large slug swam away.
Kendra turned and swam after Jar Jar. He was hiding behind a support beam nearby and his eyes looked like they were ready to pop out. The Falleen pointed up and began swimming towards the surface. Jar Jar took the hint and followed her.
Using her lightsaber, Kendra cut open a hole into the compound above and then used the Force to levitate the cut portion out of the way. She climbed up slowly, glancing around to make sure the coast was clear. Kendra climbed onto dry land and motioned for Jar Jar to join her.
The Gungan practically leapt out of the water. "There's a bad boogie monster down there," he said.
"He wasn't going to harm us. We just startled him a little bit," stated Kendra.
"Wesa scared him?" Jar Jar scoffed.
"We can talk animal psychology later senator. Right now I need you to follow our old plan and find someplace to hide," Kendra said.
"But whats about Padme and 3O?" protested Jar Jar.
"I'll find them but I can't do that and protect you at the same time," Kendra explained, trying to keep her temper in check. If it wasn't for Jar Jar's bumbling nature, she would have already found the coms center and help would be on the way. Instead she had to save him and now the whole compound was on alert, making her job even more difficult.
Suddenly Kendra could sense danger approaching. She quickly grabbed Jar Jar and pulled him behind a nearby pillar. Ten battle droids marched by followed by two droid destroyers who rolled alongside the patrol.
"Where exactly be safe around here?" Jar Jar questioned once the droids were out of earshot.
He actually had a good point. The droids would be looking for them now and the mechs wouldn't leave any stone unturned. They were probably preparing divers to check the depths underneath the compound as well. If Jar Jar was spotted, Kendra didn't have confidence in his ability to defend himself. She was going to need to watch out for him.
"Fine we both go to the coms center and call the Republic for help," conceded Kendra.
"Then we rescue Padme?" Jar Jar asked.
"One step at a time senator," Kendra replied.
They headed towards the main building. Once they got close enough to the entrance, they noticed a very big problem.
"That's a lotta bombad droids," moaned Jar Jar.
He wasn't kidding. At least fifty droids were standing guard with a mix of battle droids and destroyers. Nute Gunray wasn't taking any chances with Kendra and Jar Jar still on the loose.
"Great. Now what we do?" grumbled Kendra, knowing she didn't stand a chance against a force that large.
"Maybe wesa use distraction?" suggested Jar Jar.
Kendra shook her head. "That won't work Senator. Even if one of us were draw away half their numbers, there would still be too many droids for either one of us to handle," she replied.
"But wesa need to do something. Gunray probably gonna takin Padme back to his ship and we never see her again," protested Jar Jar.
Kendra thought about that for a moment. Jar Jar was right. Gunray wouldn't risk staying long on a Republic world very long especially with only a small force. He would grab Amidala and get off world as fast as possible.
Then an idea popped into the Padawan's head.
"I wonder if Gunray's ship is as well guarded," she smirked.
"Thisa nuts," grumbled Jar Jar as he and Kendra glanced into the hangar bay containing a Sheathipede-class transport shuttle. It was the vessel of choice for high ranking Separatists officials so that had to be Gunray's personal shuttle.
Knowing the front entrance would be guarded, Kendra and Jar Jar had swam through the swamp underneath the compound to the outer doors on the hangar bay. They found Gunray's ship but it was guarded by at least twenty battle droids.
The good news was there was a lot of cargo crates and machinery that could provided cover to sneak through.
"Alright stay here and keep an eye out in case Gunray shows up to leave," whispered Kendra.
"What if hesa got Padme?" asked Jar Jar.
"Then I'll be able to ambush and take him prisoner while saving Senator Amidala at the same time," smiled Kendra.
Jar Jar thought about it for a moment then nodded in agreement.
"Stay here. I mean it," Kendra added before she climbed up into the hangar bay and dashed behind a stack of cargo crates. She climbed up and then used the Force to leap onto a cargo crane then scaled to the top. She ran along the arm which passed over the shuttle, allowing the Padawan to simply drop down on top of it.
Kendra crawled to the edge, glancing down to watch the droids as a patrol passed by. She waited until she was certain no droids were watching then dropped down and raced up the landing ramp.
When Kendra entered the bridge, she found only a simple pilot droid inside.
"Hey! You're not supposed to be here!" protested the droid before Kendra lunged forward and with a simple slash, sliced the droid's head off. She then shoved the now defunct clanker's body aside then took a seat at the control station.
She established a connection with Master Kenobi's holocomunicator and waited for him to respond. Every second waiting for a response felt like an eternity. Finally, a holographic image of Kenobi appeared on the control console.
"Hello Kendra. I wasn't expecting your report so soon," Kenobi said.
"Master we need help. The Separatists are on Rodia and they've captured Senator Amidala," Kendra explained.
"On Rodia? Strange how our Intelligence heard nothing of this. Are you alright?" asked Kenobi.
"I'm fine Master and I doubt it's an occupying force. It's too small but Nute Gunray is here. I think he set this whole thing up to capture Senator Amidala," replied Kendra.
"If it's only a small force then that would explain how they managed to sneak under our noses. What about Senator Binks?" inquired Kenobi.
"He's safe for now but I don't know how long we can stay hidden," answered Kendra.
"I'll divert the Tranquility to Rodia. It's close enough that it should be less then an hour to get there. In the meantime, keep yourself and Jar Jar out of sight. Don't take any risks," said Kenobi.
"Yes Master," nodded Kendra.
"Keep me updated when you can. Kenobi out," her master spoke before the transmission ended.
Kendra breathed a sigh of relief. Things were finally looking up. She just had to wait until reinforcements arrive. In the meantime, Kendra decided to look through the communication log and see who Viceroy Gunray has been talking to.
She went through the logs and noticed several calls originated from Toosma. It was a gas giant in the same system as Rodia so the messages must have come from one of it's many moons. At the moment, Toosma is considered to be a no go zone due to pirate activity in the area
"That batha poodoo nerfherding chuba," cursed Kendra.
Viceroy Gunray had to be in contact with the pirates which explained why they had gotten so powerful recently. They must have made a deal. Gunray provides support and the pirates ravage the Rodian supply line. Enough for them to become desperate to make a deal with the Separatists.
Kendra suspected that was the case but now she had some actual proof. She plugged in her communicator and started downloading the com logs. Turns out, Gunray had kept recordings of his calls. He probably did so for blackmail purposes but Kendra could use that against him.
"Master Jedi," Jar Jar's voice came from the Kendra's communicator.
"What is it Jar Jar?" answered Kendra.
"Wesa have problems," Jar Jar said fearfully.
Kendra glanced out the front view screen and saw the Gungan senator running into the hangar bay.
"What is he doing?" grumbled Kendra.
She got her answer as three Crab droids crawled up into the hangar bay chasing after Jar Jar. Kendra knew the Separatists might sent aquatic droids into the marshes but thought they have avoided them. She was wrong.
The battle droids quickly surrounded Jar Jar. If Kendra didn't do something then he was as good as dead. She powered up the ship, closed the landing ramp, and activated the weapons systems.
The droids turned their attention towards the shuttle just as Kendra opened fire. Multiple clankers were vaporized instantly from a single shot. The droids returned fire but their blasters were useless against the shuttle's armor. Kendra focused fire on the crab droids, destroying the most powerful droids first then turned the weapons on the smaller ones.
She noticed Jar Jar getting away in the chaos. Unfortunately, she didn't notice the B-2 Battle droid with a missile launcher aiming at the shuttle until it was too late. The droid fired it's projectile which hit the rear of the ship. Red lights lite up all over the consoles as klaxons blared overhead.
Kendra had to hold onto her chair as the shuttle began to spin wildly out of control. The ship crashed into the hangar wall and slide down to the floor, creating a loud and unpleasant noise as it scratched the wall on the way down.
Kendra was nearly knocked out of her seat when the ship came to a halt. She didn't have time to catch her breath as the battle droids were probably about to swarm her position. The view screen was cracked, allowing her to use the Force to send a telekinetic wave that shattered the transparent material and created an opening.
She crawled out to find the droids surrounding the wreckage. Too many for her to fight her way through. Fortunately, Kendra had a way out via the crane she used to get onto the ship. The Padawan leaped onto the magnetic hook and climbed up towards the crane's arm. The droids opened fire at her and while their aim wasn't the best, Kendra was forced to deflect several shots with her lightsaber.
She climbed to the top of the arm and ran along the structure. All the while blaster bolts shot all around her. Kendra reached the end and leaped up into a ventilation shaft. She needed to keep moving. Getting Nute Gunray's shuttle destroyed was going to only escalate the droid's efforts to find her and Jar Jar.
Kendra activated her com. "Senator can you read me?" she called out as she crawled through the ventilation shaft.
"Mesa thought you were crunched Padawan," answered Jar Jar.
"Almost. Nute Gunray's ship is destroyed and help is on the way but I've stirred up the lylek's nest," explained Kendra.
"If Gunray can't runnin away, wesa need to rescue Padme now," argued Jar Jar.
"That's exactly what they'll expect us to do. We need to bunker down and wait until reinforcements arrive. Where are you?" asked Kendra.
"Padme would do same for me," replied Jar Jar then the com cut out.
"Did he really just hang up on me?" grumbled Kendra. He continued crawling down the shaft, wondering how in the name of the universe has Jar Jar Binks stayed alive all this time.
Kendra kicked out a grate off it's hinges and climbed out of the ventilation shaft onto an exterior bridge on the second floor of the compound. She had to find Jar Jar and fast before he got himself killed. The sound of blaster fire caught her attention. If she followed the source, that would probably lead her to the Gungan.
The Padawan raced around the main compound to find battle droids shooting at a cloaked figure. Kendra wasn't sure if she would reach him in time when suddenly another cluster of blaster bolts destroyed Jar Jar's attackers.
Kendra glanced at the source to see Padme Amidala. The senator must have escaped imprisonment. Well at least they didn't need to rescue her. The problem now was that more droids were starting to emerge out of the compound. Padme was about to be overwhelmed.
Kendra leaped into action, dropping into the courtyard with her lightsaber ignited. She rushed into a squad of droids, slashing them into pieces.
"Senators! Take cover!" called out Kendra. While Padme ran to cover, Jar Jar lifted up a grate underneath his feet and dropped into the murky water below.
Kendra deflected a shot back at a droid then used the Force to telekinetically knock down four nearby droids off their feet. She made quick work of them before they could get back up. By now droids were swarming in from every direction.
Knowing she was outgunned, Kendra quickly joined up with Padme taking cover behind a column. They were safe from the droids from the moment but any escape route was cut off.
"Help is on the way and Gunray's ship is destroyed," the padawan explained.
"Then we just need to hold out long enough. This is our chance to capture Gunray," said Padme.
"I'm not sure how much longer we can," Kendra gulped as four Destroyed droids rolled into blaster range and unfold themselves.
"Cut a hole through the floor," Padme ordered.
"Senator you can't hold your breath long enough to get away," protested Kendra. Humans could hold their breath for several minutes but there was no way they could get to a safe location in that time especially as the droids were probably expecting that.
"You're going. I'll stay here and hold them off," Padme stated.
"I can't just leave you here," argued Kendra.
Then they both noticed a group of droids were opening up grates around the courtyard and dropping grenades into the water.
"Oh no. Jar Jar!" shouted Padme.
Numerous explosions went off along the courtyard, sending bursts of water into the air. There was no way anyone could have survived that many detonations inside a small area of water.
"Well well well," called out a voice.
"Gunray," hissed Padme.
The Neimoidian entered the courtyard along with an escort of several battledroids and a Rodian.
"Senator Amidala. So good to see you at last," Gunray called out.
"Can't say the same Viceroy," spat Padme.
"Your Jedi friend is dead and if you try to swim away, you'll be joining him in his watery grave. Only you and your little Padawan are left," Gunray spoke. "Throw down your weapons and surrender."
"You're going to kill us anyways. I'd rather die on my feet," shot back Padme.
"Oh I certainly will but not right away," mocked Gunray. "I'm going to make sure you suffer for all the trouble you've caused me. As for you little youngling, I'm sure General Grievious would like to have a new toy to play with."
A shiver went up Kendra' spine. Dying now sounded much better then enduring that kind of hell.
"I'll have to decline your generous offer," said Padme.
"Then I'll just have to persuade you to reconsider," smiled Gunray. He nodded to one of his droids who suddenly grabbed the Rodian and forced him to his knees.
"Viceroy! What is the meaning of this?" the Rodian demanded.
"Surrender now or I will kill Senator Farr and have my droids begin executing every one else in the compound," Gunray stated.
"We had a deal," protested Farr.
"Silence!" shouted Gunray.
"What is the Senator talking about?" Kendra whispered to Padme.
"Not important right now. We can't let that scum kill these people," replied Padme.
"Are you really going to let these poor people die because of you?" asked Gunray.
"They're starving because of you! I got into your com logs and I know you've sending aide to the pirates who've been attacking the shipments to Rodia," spoke up Kendra.
"What?" gasped Farr. The Rodian turned his gaze to Gunray. "You lying son of a Hutt!"
"Is that supposed to intimidate me youngling?" scoffed Gunray.
"What are you doing?" whispered Padme.
"Trying to buy time," Kendra whispered back.
The Padawan cleared her throat and said, "No but I also took a look at some of your other calls. A few I'm sure Count Dooku would be interested to hear."
"You've got nothing," Gunray laughed.
"Well I hope that's true because I transmitted the logs to Republic Intelligence and I didn't have time to encrypt it. I'm sure a Separtist monitoring station could have picked it up easily," replied Kendra.
Gunray hesitated for a moment then said, "You're stalling. You have five seconds then Rodia will need a new senator."
"You will pay for this," snapped Farr.
"Four...three...two..." Gunray counted.
Suddenly something burst through the floor plating of the middle of the courtyard. To everyone's surprise, a giant Kwazel Maw crawled out and began attacking the battle droids. The mechs opened fire but their blasters didn't even scratch the massive slug's armor-like skin.
"What is that?" asked Padme.
"Just a local," smiled Kendra.
The Maw brought it's head down on four Destroyer droids, crushing them like paper then swung it's tail which destroyed at least a dozen battle droids. As if that wasn't surprising enough, Kendra couldn't believe it but Jar Jar was riding on the creature's head.
"Is that Senator Binks?" Kendra asked.
"I'm not even going to ask how this happened," Padme sighed though she was clearly enjoying watching the droids getting smashed with ease.
Gunray panicked and quickly fled while Senator Farr used the opportunity to escape. Kendra decided not sit idle anymore and rushed into the fray, slashing every droids in her path. She glanced behind her to see Padme opening fire then took off running in the same direction as the Viceroy.
"Wait Senator!" Kendra shouted but Padme was already out of earshot.
"Is being reckless a prerequisite for government office?" grumbled Kendra. She glanced back at the Maw to see it finish off the last of the droids.
"Stay here Senator," Kendra called out.
"Mesa go nowhere. It safe around my new friend," replied Jar Jar.
Kendra sprinted after Senator Amidala. She lost sight of her but Padme had been heading towards a hangar bay in pursuit of the Viceroy so Kendra decided to check there. Gunray was probably attempting to escape though his shuttle and Padme's were destroyed. Maybe there was another ship.
Kendra entered the hangar bay to find Padme, Senator Farr, and several Rodian security officers holding Gunray at gun point.
"You're under arrest Viceroy," Farr said.
"Then I guess we'll be sharing a cell then. In case you've forgotten, you invited me to your planet," spat Gunray.
Kendra walked up to Padme and asked, "Is that true?"
Padme didn't answer the question. Instead, she stepped forward and said, "Uncle Ono I think it's time to tell the viceroy about our little secret. How you never meant to leave the Republic and how you truly care for what's best for your people."
"What is she talking about?" demanded Gunray. Kendra felt the same way, wondering what was going on.
"I am with the Republic," answered Farr.
"Are you serious? What kind of mental gymnastics is this? You allowed me to occupy your compound so you can arrest me? With what army?" spat Gunray.
A boom was heard overhead. Everyone glanced up to see numerous Republic fighters descending through the sky along with a Venator class Destroyer.
"That army," smirked Padme.
"Those are Republic warships. The clones have arrived," said C-3PO as he entered the hangar bay.
"Where have you been?" asked Kendra.
"Following your explicit orders Master Jedi to stay hidden," 3PO answered as drop ships landed inside the hangar bay.
A clone unit quickly surrounded Gunray and held him at gunpoint.
"Commander Gree. 41st Elite Corps," said the clone officer introducing himself.
"Your timing is impeccable commander," said Kendra.
"General Kenobi said you were in trouble so we got here as soon as we could. Though it seems you have the situation well in hand," remarked Gree.
"Commander take Gunray into custody," ordered Padme.
"Yes ma'am," nodded Gree. He motioned to his troops who cuffed Gunray and led him away.
"You'll all pay for this," Gurnay called out as he forced into a dropship
A loud noise caught everyone's attention. They turned to see the Maw entering the hangar bay with Jar Jar riding on it's head.
"What is that?!" shouted Gree. All the clones aimed their weapons at it.
"Hold your fire! It's friendly," ordered Kendra.
"Are...you sure?" Gree asked nervously.
Kendra calmly walked up to the Maw as it lowered it's head, allowing Jar Jar to climb off.
"Thisa rescuin thing is hard jobbin," sighed a relieved Jar Jar.
"You'll get no argument from me," chuckled Kendra. She touched the Maw's head and stretched out with the Force. Kendra could feel the creature's mind and sent a feeling of gratitude to let it know how grateful she was for it saving their lives.
The Maw cooed, sending out feelings of pleasure in response. The creature then turned and crawled back out of the hangar bay.
"Did hesa say something?" asked Jar Jar.
"He said your welcome though not in so many words," replied Kendra.
She turned to see Senators Padme, Farr, and C-3PO approaching.
"Master Jedi on behalf on behalf of the people of Rodia, I thank you both. You're either the bravest Jedi or the most foolish Jedi I have ever met," Farr spoke.
"Definitely the later," chuckled Kendra.
"I'm just a Gungan and I don't think I'm either. Padawan Zor the real Jedi," said Jar Jar as he took of his cloak.
"Well I think you're a...little bit of both," commented 3P0.
"Senators. Commander," Gree said approaching them. "I've got the Supreme Chancellor on the line. He wishes to speak with all of you."
Gree held up his holocommunicator and with a tap of button, the device projected a hologram of Chancellor Palpatine.
"Senators I'm so relieved to see you unharmed. Since the Senate has been bogged down in procedure, I've decided to use my emergency powers to authorize a relief mission to Rodia with a military escort. The convoy should be arriving within a day," Palpatine explained.
"Thank you Chancellor," smiled a grateful Farr.
"The capture of Viceroy Gunray is a major victory for the Republic. All of you should be commended for your courage and from what I hear especially you representative Binks," added Palpatine.
"Ah itsa nothing," Jar Jar said who looked like he was going to blush.
"We'll talk later to finalize the details Senator Farr. Good day to all of you," smiled Palpatine before the transmission ended.
Kendra frowned as she watched Farr led Padme aside and the two conversed privately. Kendra kept her mouth shut for the moment about the Senator's involvement in Gunray's occupation as she was following Amidala's lead but Kendra couldn't just let this go. Padme had tricked Gunray into thinking that Farr had always planned on betraying him but Kendra knew it was all a ruse.
The two of them shook hands and Farr headed towards the exit. Seeing this as a chance to speak with Padme privately, the Padawan quickly approached the Naboo Senator.
"Padme what's going to happen with Senator Farr?" inquired Kendra.
"What do you mean?" she replied.
"He conspired with the Separatists and almost got you killed. Isn't he going to face judgment for that?" asked Kendra.
"The only reason he did what he did was because the Republic failed him," explained Padme. "Rodia was starving and he had no one else to turn to. How can we demand loyalty to the Republic when we can't handle the basic services a government is supposed to provide to it's people."
"But Senator..." protested Kendra.
"The Separtists rule through fear. The Republic needs to be better and when this war ends, we'll need to show compassion to those we fight against now. Otherwise the Republic will never be made whole again," added Padme.
"Okay Padme. I may not like this but I trust your judgment," sighed Kendra.
"Thank you Kendra," smiled Padme.
Kendra's com beeped. She pulled it out to see she was getting a transmission from Master Kenobi.
"Excuse me Senator I need to take this," Kendra said as she activated her com. A holographic representation of Obi-Wan Kenobi appeared.
"Congratulations Kendra. From what I hear, not only did you save Senators Amidala and Binks, you also managed to capture Nute Gunray," said Kenobi.
"Well it was a group effort," replied Kendra.
"After my time teaching Anakin, it's nice to have a Padawan with some modesty," chuckled Kenobi.
"There's more Master. I copied Gunray com logs on his shuttle and found the proof that the Separatists were backing the pirates attacking the shipments to Rodia. I'm guessing this isn't the only system the Sepies have done this to," explained Kendra.
"Good work. We'll have Republic Intelligence shift through the data and see what they can come up with. In the meantime, I want you to escort Gunray back to Coruscant. Master Luminara is on her way with Ahsoka to meet up with you," said Kenobi.
"Just don't call it an easy mission Master. I think I've had my fill of easy missions," chuckled Kendra.
(Next up Cloak of Darkness)