Author's Note: Alright, look, I know I said the next chapter would come in December. But 10000+ views in a month?! Y'all too much! You guys deserve another chapter just for that. This one ought to be a favorite... buckle up for Anakin vs The Wraith!


-Chapter 12: A Lesson in Pain-

Location: Tibrin

"The master of his craft always knows what's best."

The sudden and startling revelation of the confirmed existence of The Wraith brought forth a wave of terror and uncertainty within the Republic. Speculation and supposition gave way to cold facts and hard truth. The Chancellor grew concerned, the Senate became afraid and even the Jedi Order was bordering on uncertainty about the war's outcome. But on the Separatist side, something else was stirred...

It was a mixture of consideration and anger.

No longer was their secret weapon a secret. The three Jedi who survived their encounter with The Wraith could confirm his image, not to mention the symbol left behind with the remains of Daav Philo'nis was an obvious clue to his existence.

So what was to become of Project Sunstorm? They thought the entire point of the project was to maintain a level of secrecy and now that the Republic knew, the future of the war was about to change.

In whose favor, none could be sure.

But as the Separatist Council debated the matter with Doctor Scipio, Wraith decided to give voice his opinion and make it known. He explained his primary objective as a soldier: to fight on the battlefields of the Clone Wars, decimate Republic forces and lead the CIS to victory. With the revelation of his existence, the battlefield was his to dominate. No longer would he have to fight from the shadows, now he could march right up to the Republic and tear them apart. In Wraith's opinion, his reveal was no setback but the start of something so much greater.

After some slow consideration, Scipio supported his view as he came to a greater understanding of how his creation operated. His words were simple evidence of successful reconditioning. He believed in the Separatists and supported their cause, striving to do whatever he could in order to advance their goals. Count Dooku soon also came to understand his view and his root desires, and he approved of Wraith's passion. The rest of the Council soon fell in line, although the Trade Federation soon began to question the necessity of their battle droids as long as a 'super soldier' remained at large. Wraith was becoming an essential asset to the cause, they were afraid that one day an army of him would be ordered and would replace their battle droids. As this reality set in, some began to grow fearful of their worth to the Separatists, disappointed that Count Dooku had seemingly turned his back on them and began to grow jealous of Wraith's high standing.

For his first assignment as an official soldier, Count Dooku ordered Wraith to command the front lines on Mygeeto. A fierce battle was raging and Republic forces had dug in deep, forcing the Separatists to apply more pressure until the fighting had reached a stalemate.

A stalemate Wraith was going to break.

Meanwhile, as the soldier left to embark on his mission of leading the CIS to victory, Count Dooku and a party of Separatist delegates moved to the world of Tibrin, hoping to sway the opinion of the local premier. Count Dooku was feeling rather pleased with himself. The Separatists were growing in strength and the fear of The Wraith had pierced the heart of the Republic. A simple diplomatic mission like Tibrin would almost be a vacation. He had full confidence in Wraith being able to handle a battlefield like Mygeeto, meaning he didn't have to worry about it.

Little did he know, he would need Wraith's assistance far sooner than he thought. For reasons none could have foreseen...


Tibrin was a semi-aquatic world. A world lined with massive reefs and crystal blue oceans. Home of the Ishi Tib, Tibrin had been a member of the Galactic Republic for the longest time.

And for almost as equally long, Premier Suribran Tu had ruled Tibrin with an iron hand.

He was nothing short of a dictator, heartless and merciless. Using whatever means necessary to maintain his power, either through assassinations or simple executions, Suribran managed to remain so for so long simply because the Republic supported his regime. How that worked, no one truly knew. But given the increasing levels of corruption being found within the Senate, one wouldn't have to look far to find the backers of the Premier's ruthless government.

This was something Count Dooku was intent on either using for his own benefit or changing to sway the population.

Given the importance of having bases of operation as far reaching as they could, Tibrin was of great strategic value to the Separatists. Count Dooku believed he could sway Premier Tu to his cause with a few well-worded promises. The Premier was a man who favored power, if the Separatists could bring forth a stronger show of might than the Republic, control of Tibrin would be theirs. But there was one other reason for the Separatists to move on Tibrin: the Ishi Tib wished to join the Confederacy, obviously fed up with those who supported their tyrant of a leader. In fact, the people had recently attempted to revolt against the Premier, only for Suribran Tu to strong-arm the people into submission.

If Tu would not fall willingly, than the Separatists could support the people to take him down.

It was in this state of affairs that Dooku arrived on Tibrin with an entourage consisting of his own Sith Acolytes. Among them included Kadrian Sey, Sora Bulq and Tol Skorr, fallen Jedi whom Dooku himself had swayed to the Dark Side. They served by his side and while they were not true Sith, something that would break the long upheld 'Rule of Two', they may very well be.

The Separatists landed on a public landing pad, simply becuase the Palace of the Premier did not have one. What they did not expect was the incredible welcome the Ishi Tib bestowed upon them. Crowds of locals cheered on the Separatist leaders as they disembarked, treating them as though they were conquering heroes who had come to their aid.

In a way, they had.

The collective made their way through the crowds at a rather slow pace. Fortunately, battle droids were present to flank them and provide some manner of distance from the crushing crowds. The arrival of Count Dooku and his entourage was something of a big deal.

No doubt word would reach the Premier.

The Separatists walked towards the palace, almost as if they were parading before the masses. A symbol of hope for a better tomorrow, one free of a ruthless dictator.

From a balcony on his palace, Suribran Tu watched with a sense of unease as his subjects hailed the arriving Separatists, welcoming them with open arms and joyous spirits. Such sentiments could easily result in his dethronement. Tu was a man who enjoyed power, the kind of man who wouldn't give up his prominence without a fight. The presence of Count Dooku troubled him greatly. He was a man who commanded attention, his very presence radiated with power... a power not even Tu could best. Dooku's supremacy would more than likely lead to Tu's downfall and him being removed from power... or even worse.

But Suribran Tu was a crafty man. He hadn't stayed in power this long by relying on good luck.

Perhaps, if there was a way to get on Dooku's good side, being open and reasonable and accepting of whatever the Count asked, he might just be able to retain his power and keep his regime alive under a Separatist banner instead of a Republic one.

That brought forth another issue: Tu's loyalty to the Republic.

Of course, Tu was not one to remain in any one place for very long. He followed the balance of power wherever it shifted. He didn't care whose feet he stepped on or whose head rolled, just so long as wherever he went continued to serve his ambitions. Until now, the Republic had been the only governmental power in the galaxy.

But with the Separatists on the rise... that fact may be subject to change.

He had to play this carefully. Forge an alliance that would benefit him without making any enemies.

No one wanted to be on the bad side of either faction.

The Premier ordered one of his aides to go and welcome the Separatist entourage. He had better prove himself to be a good host, first impressions were everything. But there was one other issue he had to deal with. He was in the midst of entertaining a Senator, Padme Amidala of Naboo. The sudden, unexplained arrival of a Separatist entourage did not bode well... unless somehow he could play the victim.

Tu sighed. It appeared he had his work cut out for him.

Dooku waited politely in the meeting room the Premier's servant had escorted them to. Flanked by his acolytes, Dooku sat at the head of a table with his three allies behind him. They didn't need to wait long before the Premier himself arrived.

"Greetings Count Dooku. I was unprepared for your surprise visit." The Ishi-Tib dictator greeted them, putting on his best smile.

"It was a late decision, I assure you, Premier. Had I more time I would've informed you of our coming arrival." The old man lied.

"Please, Count, refer to me however you wish. There is no need for formalities." Suribran told him, sitting down to Dooku's left. "But I must ask, what do the Separatists want from Tibrin?"

"The answer is simple, Premier. Your world is in a strategically beneficial location as it is near the front-lines of the Clone Wars. We should like to construct a base from where we can house our forces until they are needed." Dooku explained.

"What you ask is impossible, because Tibrin is a world aligned with the Republic." Suribran shook his head in mock disappointment.

"Ah, but perhaps we can convince you otherwise." Dooku responded with a slight smile on his face. "The Separatists offer superior technology and superior politics. All you'd have to do is renounce your allegiance to them and shake hands with me." This was the moment Tu had been worried about. He had assumed from the beginning that Count Dooku wanted something from him, but the Premier was hesitant to make a hasty decision. Sure, the Separatists were a growing power in the galaxy. But to turn his back on the Republic

"Perhaps this situation requires more... deliberation." Suribran cautiously replied. "Not that I don't trust your judgement Count Dooku, but I have been well off with the Republic all this time. I simply cannot leave them now."

"No you can't Premier." Another voice added. Turning to the doorway, Count Dooku was slightly surprised to see Senator Padme Amidala enter the meeting room.

"Senator Amidala, what a pleasant surprise." He cordially greeted her, but was internally bothered by her presence. She could very well interfere with his plans. "You did not tell me you had a guest, Premier." Suribran quickly searched for an appropriate response to keep him out of hot water.

"As you have said, Count, your arrival was rather sudden." He quickly explained. Dooku nodded in understanding. Padme moved to sit across from the Sith, placing Suribran right between the two representatives. He felt more than a little torn.

"Indeed it was." Padme mused. "We were unaware of your arrival and would've prepared Tibrin more properly for such an occasion."

"By 'properly' I assume you would've brought along a company of Clone Troopers."

"Tibrin is a Republic world, we would do whatever was necessary to ensure it did not fall into Separatist hands." Padme responded, her gaze had turned hard and unflinching. She would show Count Dooku he was attempting to convert the wrong planet, that this world would never fall like countless others already had.

"Has the Republic truly accepted ruthless tyrants into its fold? Perhaps the corruption of the senate runs deeper than first thought." Dooku shot back.

"I am not a tyrant, Count." Tu interjected, acting appalled by the accusation. "My people fare as well as they do because of my leadership."

"If that is the case, why do they so eagerly accept us upon our arrival? Surely citizens loyal to the Republic would rather snub Separatist arrivals." Dooku replied, questioning the Premier. Suribran grew nervous. Dooku appeared to be fully aware of his activities in order to maintain power. What else did the Sith know? The thought troubled him greatly.

"Premier Tu has been a long time support of the galactic senate, Count Dooku." Padme stated. "The Republic will defend Tibrin by any means necessary."

"I would assume those are fighting words Senator," Dooku responded, "words that would initiate another chapter in the Clone Wars, one I am confident the Separatists will emerge from triumphant." He smiled a little, knowing the costly battles the Republic was losing recently. Thanks in part to one soldier in particular.

"Senator, Count, I must insist we avoid all possible hostilities. I do not want my people to have to face the Clone Wars." The Premier pleaded, trying to play moderator. Dooku quickly analyzed the current situation. He knew exactly what kind of man Suribran was and therefore knew how to make him play right into Separatist hands. As long as he was backed by the Republic, he felt safe. The balance of power was on his side. But if the balance were to tip...

"If war is not the answer... then perhaps a contest could benefit us better, Premier." He suggested. Suribran faced Dooku with piqued curiosity, as did Senator Amidala.

"You have my attention, Count Dooku. What did you have in mind?" Tu inquired. Dooku began to explain his suggestion.

"A simple bloodsport event. One-on-one, hand-to-hand combat. The winner will prove their superiority to you and thus the more powerful faction." His plan made Padme raise an eyebrow. Bloodsport? Since when had Dooku ever used such a means to achieve victory? The Sith preferred to use his words and charisma to sway the opinions of potential allies. "You wish to ally with those who could back you even further, correct?" Tu grew fearful, Dooku knew part of his plan. Was he truly that readable?

"You speak the truth. As long as the Republic will commit to this contest, I see every reason to make this event happen." He cautiously replied, turning to Padme. The senator looked straight at Dooku.

"This plan is most unlike you, Dooku. What are you playing at?" She asked.

"My dear Senator, I simply wish to maintain the best interests of the Ishi-Tib. If they do not wish to face war, then we will not give them one." Dooku smoothly replied.

"How noble of you." Padme dryly muttered. "On behalf of the Republic, I accept your suggestion and will contact Coruscant to inform them of these developments."

"Very good." Dooku responded with a pleased smile. "Please ask them to send their most formidable General to represent the Republic. Premier, when should you like to host this contest?"

"We will have it tomorrow, in the throne room." Tu decided. "The sooner we can avoid war, the better."

"Excellent. We shall face each other tomorrow then, Senator." Dooku replied as he stood up. "I bid you farewell until then." Turning about, Dooku motioned for his acolytes to join him as they left the room.

"I will have a servant direct you to your quarters!" Tu called after them. The four Separatists left the room without another word, the door automatically shutting behind them.

"This is rather troublesome." Padme quietly mused. "Dooku has never chosen bloodsport as a means to peace. I fear he has some scheme in mind that we have... unwittingly fallen for."

"He tried to promise me a better life outside the Republic." The Premier informed her. "I was feeling very under fire until your timely arrival."

"Do not fall for his serpent's tongue, Premier. Dooku is crafty with his words, but has only ill-intent on his mind." Padme cautioned him. "Which makes me wonder what exactly is going on that would make him suggest a tournament over diplomatic discussions." Having been involved in every kind of political foray, from scandals to betrayals, Padme knew a plot when she saw one. Problem was, she had no idea what kind of plot this was. And it made her very edgy.

Dooku, on the other hand, was considering the prime candidate to defeat the Republic in such a way that Suribran's greed would get the better of him. He was seeking someone to display such incredible power that the Premier would easily fall for the Separatist cause.

"I have no doubt the Republic will send Anakin Skywalker to represent them," he mused, "which means we will need an equal display of great power... we will need our own champion."

"Use one of us, my lord." Sora requested. "We can combat the Jedi with ease."

"No. I do not want to risk the possibility of Skywalker beating you." Dooku replied, much to the chagrin Sora and the other acolytes. "I have someone in mind... and yet I just sent him away..." The Count spoke thoughtfully. "Although I'm certain he'll not pass up this opportunity."

"Who else could possibly defeat a Jedi?" Skorr asked.

"Such a man does exist... and he serves the Confederacy." Dooku replied. He turned back to Sora. "Contact Pomel Scipio. Tell him The Wraith is to be pulled from active duty on Mygeeto and sent to Tibrin immediately." Dooku instructed.

The hand of Separatist vengeance would be coming to Tibrin


Later that night...

A Republic shuttle delivered more than one 'champion' to Tibrin. When Padme had explained the situation and Dooku's suggestion of a bloodsport tournament, Chancellor Palpatine was more than a little concerned by the development. In response, he sent a rather impressive entourage of Republic representatives, including: Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ahsoka Tano, Captain Rex and Commander Gree. All of which were here to represent a united front against the Separatists. Palpatine had specifically asked Anakin to represent the Republic in this contest, believing the Chosen One could conquer any foe the Separatists sent his way.

And he had... so far.

Padme was waiting for them on the landing pad, along with a pair of the Premier's royal guards. Anakin was the first to disembark, Ahsoka right behind him.

"Senator. Always good to see you." Anakin greeted her with a small smile which Padme returned.

"Likewise, Master Jedi. On behalf of the Republic, I must thank you for being willing to participate in this contest."

"No worries. But I can't help but wonder what Dooku's game is."

"A sentiment we both share." Padme nodded in agreement. "Something is afoot, that much is for sure."

"Whatever it is, I'm sure we'll stop him. We always do." Ahsoka stated with a smirk.

"That we do Snips." Anakin agreed. "I'm sure it's nothing to worry about Senator. We're here to protect Tibrin and that's exactly what we plan to do." He confidently told his wife. The rest of the Republic exited the shuttle and were escorted to where they would be staying for the night, not giving Dooku's plan another thought. Everyone was confident they had the manpower and the means to defeat any Separatist plot...

Elsewhere...

On another area of the planet, Count Dooku waited on a small, flat island as a small, unmarked shuttle made landfall. The location was deliberate, part of an effort to avoid any prying Republic eyes and maintain the secrecy of Dooku's master plan.

A plan that took the form of the soldier descending the landing ramp.

Even though the world was cloaked in evening darkness, his broad and formidable form was unmistakable.

"I appreciate your coming here, Wraith." Dooku greeted him. "I didn't think I would need your services so soon, but this matter simply demanded I summon you." Wraith nodded in understanding.

"Must be important." He mused. "Mygeeto's still stuck at a stalemate, by the way. Gonna have to go back and fix that once we're done here."

"Good to know, and yes, this is important." Dooku motioned him to follow. Separatist leader and Separatist soldier walked side by side towards Dooku's personal speeder as the count filled him in on recent developments. "I have convinced Premier Suribran Tu to a bloodsport contest, as a way to convince him of the superior faction."

"My favorite kind of contest." Wraith replied, rolling his shoulders. Nothing like a little bloodletting to settle a dispute.

"Is it now?" Dooku was hardly surprised by the response. "I have no doubt the Republic will have Anakin Skywalker represent them." Dooku added. Wraith was starting to put the pieces together and he very much liked where this conversation was going.

"And you want me to represent the Separatists." He replied, hoping he was right. Dooku confirmed his theory with a nod.

"That is correct. Think you're up to the task?" Wraith chuckled at the question.

"Am I ever glad you pulled me off Mygeeto for this." He responded, clearly excited for the change in assignments. "Sure, killing Clones is one thing. But battling Jedi is another." He growled, pounding his fists together. Dooku smirked, he knew summoning Wraith was the best choice. Not only did the soldier have an appetite for violence, but he also had the strength and ability to fulfill all his cravings.

"We must be careful how we return." Dooku informed him, suddenly growing serious. "I'd rather keep you a secret until tomorrow, that way the Republic has no idea what they're up against until it is too late."

"Good plan." Wraith nodded. In all of his studies, an ill-informed enemy was the best kind. It meant they were unprepared for the challenge ahead... and would more than likely be flattened within the heat of battle. "Got a way to get us back?"

"I have my acolytes ready to distract the guards if need be. The Force is a very useful tool on the simple minded."

"And I'm engineered to be immune to it." Wraith commented. "Guess we should go, before your absence arouses suspicion."

"Quite right." The two mounted Dooku's speeder and took off into the night, skimming low over the still waters of the aquatic world. The journey took some time, Count Dooku had ensured Wraith landed a good distance away in a location free from any and all prying eyes. Wraith got his first look at the Premier's palace as the large building came into view on the horizon. He found it hard to believe the owner of such a place only possessed the title of 'premier'. It seemed rather fitting for a monarch of some kind to inhabit such a dwelling. Perhaps Suribran Tu was truly as bad as he had read.

"Is the Premier really this bad?" He asked Dooku over the whooshing of the waves below them.

"Verily so!" The count affirmed. "He oppresses the Ishi-Tib with an iron fist, offering them no rest from his tyranny. The Republic calls Tibrin a democracy, but it is truly a regime."

"Tell me we're putting that to an end when this is done." Wraith wondered. Dooku smirked.

"You've read my mind." No more words were spoken as the speeder slowed down upon arrival, attempting to reduce as much noise as possible before Dooku gently drove it into an open space on the back of the palace where three individuals were waiting. Dooku powered down his ride and allowed it to softly land before the three. Wraith quickly examined the trio awaiting them.

"Friends of yours?"

"In a way." Dooku replied as he dismounted, Wraith right behind him. "Wraith, these are my acolytes: Kadrian Sey, Sora Bulq and Tol Skorr." Dooku introduced his associates. Wraith quickly took stock of the Zabrak, Weequay and Human standing before him. He was very well aware of who they were, much of the inside information on the Jedi Order he had access to had come from them. That and he had taken time to study who they were and learn who his allies were. The bearded form of Tol Skorr approached him, sizing him up. Wraith himself analyzed the long-haired man before him.

"So this is The Wraith." Skorr mused. "I thought he'd be taller."

"And I thought you'd be more intimidating." Wraith retorted, crossing his arms. "I know who you are, Skorr. You used to be a Jedi, and it shows." Tol frowned and reached for his lightsaber only to be stopped by Dooku.

"Now now, we are all allies here. No need to become divided. Tol, you are looking at the pinnacle of Techno Union bio-engineering. A literal 'super-soldier' as it were." The heavyset human slowly moved his hand away from his lightsaber.

"Just so long as he remembers we're on the same side." He growled.

"I have been engineered to slaughter armies of Jedi. Something everyone else seems to have trouble with." Wraith remarked. "But as long as we share the same goal, I suppose I can work with you."

"I'm thrilled I meet your standards." Skorr rolled his eyes.

"Enough." Dooku promptly ended their conversing. "Wraith, I will show you to your quarters for the night. And I recommend you all go about your business as normal. We cannot allow any wandering eyes or minds to think we are up to something." The Count escorted the soldier inside, leaving his acolytes behind on the platform. Skorr watched them leave with a dark look on his face. To him, something felt off about the way Dooku relied upon this Wraith more than he did his own students.

"He's giving that soldier way too much attention." He mused aloud, a grim tone in his voice.

"Jealous, Tol?" Kadrian asked with a smirk.

"No. Just concerned." Tol responded quickly.

"Relax. Count Dooku knows what he's doing, he didn't become the leader of the Separatists by charisma alone." Sora waved off his worries. "If what he says about Wraith is true, you can look forward to seeing some Jedi blood on the floor tomorrow. Now that's something we can all agree we enjoy." He commented. Kadrian nodded.

"Lightsabers don't usually spill blood. Red floors are always a nice change of pace." The trio made their way inside, acting calmly as their master instructed. Skorr's worries were far from quenched by Sora's comments. This soldier, he deemed, was becoming something of a barrier between Dooku and his students. How could Kadrian and Sora remained oblivious to this? Perhaps they needed to see things as he did...

As members of the Republic and the Separatists settled in for an overnight stay, neither side had any idea how the events of tomorrow would unfold.

But Wraith did. He knew that tomorrow would be a day of infamy for the Republic.

A day when the floor ran red with Jedi blood.


The next day...

The Count of Serenno sat alone in the common room, sipping tea. The wing of the palace Suribran had set aside for them proved to be quite spacious. Perhaps a reflection of the luxurious life the Premier lived, everything Dooku had seen was ornate and of excellent craftsmanship. The early morning sun was rising on the horizon, painting the waters of Tibrin with a rainbow of colors. The massive set of windows he faced granted a very impressive view of the ocean, revealing a splendid display of the wide, wide ocean that comprised the majority of the world. While he did not enjoy living in such luxury while others around him suffered, Dooku had to admit the Premier did have some fine tastes. The Force called to his attention the presence of someone else with him. Half-expecting The Wraith, Dooku tapped into the Force and discovered it was Tol Skorr joining him that morning. The man sat down across from Dooku and sat in silence, seemingly waiting for Dooku to speak.

"Good morning, Tol." Dooku greeted him. "Sleep well?"

"Yes, master." Tol nodded in reply. Dooku paused and briefly searched through Skorr's feelings. The Force alerted him his acolyte felt uncertain and questioning. Clearly something was on his mind and was causing him a great deal of struggle.

"Something troubles you." Dooku noted. "Tell me about it." Tol sighed, knowing his master would've discovered his state sooner or later.

"I am concerned about the standing of Wraith in comparison to us." He admitted.

"How so? I would not think this was the result of your verbal spar last night."

"It is not so much how you came to his defense as much as it is the way your treat him as an equal." Tol explained. "We are equals... he not so much."

"And yet, under the banner of the Confederacy, we are equals." Dooku replied. Skorr said nothing as Dooku took another sip. "I'm beginning to think jealousy is the root of your thoughts."

"Kadrian said the same thing." Tol sighed. "But I assure you, master, jealousy is not my intention."

"Then is it fear? A fear of being replaced or shoved aside?" Dooku asked. Tol did not respond, but Dooku knew he had found the true cause. "You needn't be afraid of whom I show favouritism. As a Sith Lord, my focus is upon my acolytes. But as leader of the Separatists, my focus is upon my greatest assets." He explained. "You have simply witnessed my change of roles, becoming more Separatist than Sith." Dooku paused. He chuckled as a thought came to him. "If anyone, it should the Separatist Council who grows afraid. If they even stray out of line, all they need do is remember Mina Bonteri."

"I have read that report." Tol mused.

"Indeed. You needn't be afraid, Tol. Wraith does deserve a level of respect, but has not consumed my focus. I should think I keep the best interests of all my allies in mind." Tol felt relieved. Dooku took another sip. "Enjoy the show today, my disciple. We can all revel in the sound defeat of a Jedi." Dooku encouraged him. Skorr nodded, feeling a little better. Dooku returned his attention to the rising sun which had now appeared in full above the water. "The time draws near, I had best ensure our champion is ready." Setting down his finished tea, Dooku stood and departed for Wraith's room, leaving Skorr to mull over his master's words. Dooku walked down the nearby hallway, past the quarters of his acolytes, until he arrived at the final door in the hall. Standing before it for a moment, Dooku triggered the release and the door opened with a whoosh of air. The interior was dark and unlit. It seemed Wraith preferred the darkness to the light. Dooku stepped forward and allowed his eyes to adjust to the lack of light. The sudden contrast from a sunrise to no sun at all was quite striking. Dooku could see the vague outline of a body sitting on the bed. The soldier did not even stir. "Wraith?" Dooku spoke to the dark form. "It is almost time." He informed him. Cloaked in shadow, Dooku could only see the outline of Wraith's body as he nodded in understanding. "You had better get ready." He added before closing the door. Once Dooku was gone, Wraith reached up and pulled out the earpieces he had been focused on. Reaching for his helmet, he powered down the harmonic beats that had been filling his head. He had been listening to a mix of properly sequenced musical notes and sounds, specifically designed to amp him up for battle. Standing up, Wraith turned back to his combat gear lying on the bed and prepared to suit up. Armored combat boots were locked into place around his lower legs. Tech belt was tightened around his waist, pistols loaded and holstered on his thighs. Gauntlets were strapped around his forearms and armored gloves were slipped on over top the mechanisms wrapped around his hand. Jacket was pulled on and clipped up, snugly wrapping around his muscular chest. Last, but not least, his helmet was donned, plates sliding and tightening to fit the contours of his head as it settled into place. His red optics powered up, blazing brightly in the dark of the room.

The Wraith was ready for combat.


Suribran's throne room was quite packed that morning. Servants and guards lined the edges of the steps before him while the Republic banded together along the far left wall, facing off against the Separatists on the opposite side of the room. Out of all of them, only Commander Gree was not present. Fearing some element of sabotage, the Jedi chose to have him stay behind and guard the shuttle. A level of tension hung in the air as the two opposing factions stared each other down. Admittedly, the Republic did outnumber the Separatists by a few extra members.

But what they lacked in numbers, the Separatists made up for with power. A power that had yet to enter the room.

The premier himself was a little late arriving. Suribran had not slept well, racked with constant worry and dread over what the events of the coming day would result in. Forgoing any fancy dress, Premier Tu arrived wearing similar clothes to what he wore yesterday. Taking a seat on his throne, Suribran nervously cleared his throat and found his voice.

"Members of the Galactic Republic and Confederacy of Independent Systems, I thank you for coming at such an early hour." He greeted them. "But now we shall begin this contest of strength, to see who shall prove the mightier ally of the Ishi-Tib and is worthy of our allegiance. I must also thank you all for agreeing to such terms and making an effort to avoid bringing the Clone Wars here. Know that my people and I are grateful." With the formalities over with, Suribran cleared his throat once more. Senator Amidala had informed him earlier that Anakin Skywalker was to represent the Republic, but Count Dooku had not given him the name of his representative yet. Suribran wondered what he would say... "Fighting on behalf of the Republic: Jedi General Anakin Skywalker!" Each member of the group applauded as Anakin stepped forward, a confident smirk on his face.

"Go get 'em General!" Rex encouraged.

"Don't I always, Rex?" Anakin remarked. Stepping into the middle of the throne room, Anakin sized up the villains before him. "Alright Dooku, who's your best man?" Anakin called to the Separatists, half-expecting the Sith himself to step forward and draw his lightsaber. "Heh, none of you Separatists would be stupid enough to fight me." He quietly mused with a small smile. An aid ran up to Suribran and whispered something in his ear.

"Here? Are you certain?" He quietly replied, turning back to the messenger. The servant nodded. Suribran's eyes widened, either out of surprise or fear, before he resumed his original position. The Premier cleared his throat again. "Fighting on behalf of the Separatists," he announced, fighting to maintain his calm composure, "The Wraith!"

Dooku smiled at the delicious reaction on the faces of the Republic.

The four Separatists parted to let their champion pass through. The broad and menacing form of The Wraith entered the sunlit throne room, fully revealing himself without a care in the world. Padme felt a chill creep up her spine as she laid eyes on the man who had tried to assassinate her on Alderaan. Rex grew uneasy as he gazed upon the one responsible for numerous brutal deaths of whole Clone detachments. Obi-Wan and Ahsoka steeled themselves, remembering the attack on Coruscant and the murder of Daav Philo'nis. Anakin paused, his body language denoting surprise. Wraith rolled his shoulders and flexed his chest before stepping further into the room, stopping just meters away from Anakin.

The Republic could finally see their hidden enemy in perfect detail.

Anakin sized up his foe, remembering the very brief encounter they had on Coruscant. While Wraith may very well have an imposing demeanor and a very fluid fighting style, no one had yet to truly determine the extent of his abilities. This battle was truly going to be a first.

"The rules of engagement are simple: no-holds barred, last man standing wins. Anything goes." Suribran announced, slightly uncertain as to how to start this contest. "Round one, begin!"

Won't even need a round two. Wraith thought to himself.

"I can't exactly say we had a fair fight last time we met." Anakin mused as he readied his lightsaber. "Although this time, I'm looking forward to taking you down." The two combatants began to circle around each other, Anakin planning out just how many lightsaber blows it would take to down his foe while Wraith planned something completely different. Putting up his fists, the super-soldier readied himself, watching Anakin's movements. "You're not so tough!" Anakin smirked as he lunged forward and swung his blade around, "I'm putting you-" but his sentence was cut short as Wraith ducked his blade and attacked with two hard blows to the abdomen. Anakin gasped under the force of the punches only to have Wraith deliver a hard right cross to his face. This was quickly followed by a hard left before plowing a hard uppercut straight into Anakin's chin. Anakin stumbled backwards from the blow as his friends winced while the Separatists cheered.

"That... looked like it hurt." Obi-Wan commented.

"You don't say." Anakin replied as he shrugged off his daze and readied for another attack. That one uppercut alone made his jaw sore. Anakin fleetingly wondered how many more of those blows he could withstand. Wraith was back in his original posture, poised like a coiled spring ready to unload at a moment's notice. That swift counterattack was just a sample of what he could do.

Anakin readied his blade once more, assuming a defensive position. "You got lucky that time." Wraith said nothing, still standing and waiting. Anakin recognized his stance to be a Teras Kasi position, having seen it once in the archives long ago. Anakin rushed ahead and prepared to execute a low sweep to catch Wraith off-guard. But Wraith tensed up, seeing Anakin's plan of attack in his posture.

He could read the Jedi like a holotext.

As soon as Skywalker was near enough, Wraith leapt off the ground and executed a lunge kick, cleanly missing Anakin's blade by many feet. His metal boot collided with Anakin's face and flung the Jedi back to the floor. Wraith landed on both feet and rolled his shoulders. So far, he only needed one or two moves to lay Anakin out flat.

This may be his easiest fight to date.

"Not bad. Not enough to keep me down, though." Anakin groaned as he rose, feeling his face for a bruise. Picking himself back up, Anakin dusted off his robes and chose to take the initiative again. Forgoing anything fancy, the Knight simply rushed Wraith like he would any other opponent. But as Wraith raised his gauntlets, Wraith threw out his arm and pushed him onto his back with the Force. The super-soldier hit the ground hard, metal armor clanging off the polished floor. With a growl he rolled to the side just as Anakin's saber came crashing into the ground beside him. Anakin's use of the Force was something Wraith had not anticipated and his mind quickly started to calculate a means around such omnipresent abilities. Leaping to his feet, Wraith felt the heat of Anakin's saber collide with his shoulder armor and quickly went on the defensive as Anakin executed a signature Form Five attack, striking rapidly and repeatedly at different angles in an attempt to throw Wraith off-guard. The Separatist parried each strike with his gauntlets, his mind running a mile-a-minute as he calculated angles and predicted Anakin's next move.

Now this was a fight.

Anakin brought his lightsaber down between Wraith's raised gauntlets. The two powerhouses fought to break each other's hold as sparks exploded from their connection. Wraith took a moment to analyze Anakin's fighting pattern. Based on history, he knew Anakin was supposedly powerful and even vicious on the battlefield. The Jedi Knight had carved his way through the arenas of the Clone Wars and had earned his reputation for a reason. Wraith was now facing just a small portion of that reputation now and had a feeling there would be plenty more to come.

Fortunately, he'd been programmed to move past the pain, to handle anything the Jedi could send his way. That was his strength; he would keep on coming no matter what they hit him with.

Pushing up with tremendous force, Wraith practically threw Anakin off of him before he lashed out with his next attack. Wraith delivered a swift high-kick with his right leg, only for Anakin to dodge by bending backwards. The Jedi quickly responded with another Force push as Wraith finished his spin, now flung forward onto his front. With a growl, Wraith sprung to his feet and whirled about, ready to go again. He was met with Anakin's lightsaber slashing across his armored chest, leaving a glowing slash behind. Wraith stood unfazed, Anakin quickly drawing back to execute another slash. He brought his blade down hard, only for Wraith to grab both of his arms and preventing him from following through. Anakin furrowed his brow and pressed harder, using the Force to improve his physical strength.

But Wraith pushed back, with a strength honed over years of physical training, and started to overpower Anakin. The Jedi's eyes widened as he felt his arms move backwards until Wraith released him and struck with a powerful punch. Anakin recoiled, clutching his face as Wraith executed a roundhouse kick that struck his midsection. Anakin was downed almost immediately, cracking his skull against the hard floor as he was laid out.

Ahsoka winced, that would surely leave a mark.

Anakin groaned in pain as he tried to push himself up, Wraith accepting the applause coming from the Separatists as he popped the tendons in his neck.

"Behold, Master Kenobi, a triumph of Separatist engineering." Dooku called from across the room. "Able to butcher an army of Clone troopers, endure the most punishing blows and level even the most powerful Jedi." He described. Obi-Wan looked on with uneasiness, not responding to Count Dooku. He watched as Anakin shook his head and stood up, brushing off the stunning force of Wraith's punch.

"Yeah, yeah... I read the bumper sticker." Anakin stated as he found his composure, summoning the Force to sustain him. Striking a defensive stance, Wraith beckoned Anakin forward with a wave of his hand. Twirling his lightsaber in his hand, Anakin rushed forward only to have his blade collide with Wraith's gauntlet again. Launching into another sweeping series of strikes and slashes, Anakin went full-bore into the fight as Wraith moved with lightning-quick reflexes to block each one. The Jedi was good. Very good. He needed to come up with something different and, sidestepping a slash, Wraith triggered his blades and parried the next strike before he going on the offensive. One, two, three, four, five slashes slammed into Anakin's defence as Wraith spun rapidly, hacking and slashing with his arm blades as he pressed his attack. Using the Force to better his reflexes, Anakin blocked each strike until he and Wraith were locked in another clash, lightsaber grinding against solid metal. To the Jedi, they appeared to be evenly matched. Anakin wasn't quite sure where The Wraith got his reputation. Maybe as a soldier and infiltrator... but as a combatant...?

And then Wraith started to tap into his strength, Anakin's blade moving as Wraith pushed him back and bent him to one side. Withdrawing one blade from the clash, Wraith drove his weapon into Anakin's arm, piercing clean through it with a spurt of blood. The Jedi growled in pain, trying to push past the searing hurt he felt in order to fight back. He summoned the Force to aid him and pushed back with renewed strength, fighting to overcome Wraith. Breaking free with a hard slash, Anakin struck hard with his lightsaber, leaving another glowing slash across Wraith's chest. The super-soldier rolled back, blades disappearing into his gauntlets as Anakin levelled his lightsaber and got ready to strike again. Sliding out both of his knives, Wraith stood his ground and got ready to continue, letting Anakin make the first move. The Jedi attacked with a hard downward swing and Wraith sidestepped, catching Anakin off-guard as he slashed at the incoming Jedi, cutting a deep gash across his forehead.

Wraith had just given himself another advantage.

With blood seeping into his gaze, Anakin would be left distracted, incapable of fully focusing on the fight. True to his intentions, Anakin instinctively wiped some blood away with the back of his hand, proving Wraith's plan accurate. With blood coating the edge of his knife, Wraith didn't attack further, but waited for Anakin to continue. The Jedi did, executing a sweep that Wraith rolled under, popping up behind Anakin and jamming a knife deep into the Jedi's shoulder. He tore it free with a spray of blood, Anakin crying out in pain.

But with the pain came a sudden resurgence as Anakin found within him the determination to end this.

With a growl, Anakin struck with hard, vicious swings of his lightsaber, Wraith parrying each with his knives. Throwing his strength into another downward slash, the blue blade connected with both of Wraith's knives as the super-soldier warded him off, bending his knees as he took the full weight of Anakin's blow. The Jedi reared back to strike again, but Wraith took advantaged and slashed his torso with both knives, streams of blood flying across the floor. Anakin recoiled for a split second, giving Wraith the advantage he needed. Cutting across Anakin's side as he dashed past him, Wraith drove his knife into his back again, stabbing the Jedi three times before kicking him to the floor. Anakin tumbled across the floor, before righting himself and pausing in a kneeling stance, grunting and grimacing as he shrugged off the pain rolling through his back. He looked up as Wraith came charging at him, the super-soldier vaulting over the Jedi as Anakin swung his lightsaber around to try and cut him. Sensing the super-soldier land opposite him, Anakin struck with the Force and slammed Wraith into a nearby pillar, holding him in place. Wraith struggled as cracks formed in the stone behind him, but his body was rendered immobile. Anakin slowly advanced, seething as he got ready to end this.

But what he failed to notice was the shock chip Wraith dropped on his back when leaping over him.

The sudden explosion of electrical energy took Anakin by surprise, and the Jedi screamed in sudden agony as his nerves were lit up by raw voltage. He lost his concentration and Wraith hit the ground feet-first as Anakin struggled to focus. Sprinting forward, Wraith drove a knee into his midsection and followed with a massive uppercut, sending Anakin sprawling across the ground and his lightsaber falling from his hand. The Republic collectively winced.

"Impressive work, Wraith!" Dooku applauded.

"Yeah, take him down a few more notches!" Kadrian added, also applauding. Wraith looked up at his allies and nodded.

He intended to do just that.

Anakin called his lightsaber to him with the Force as he picked himself up with a groan. Wraith dusted off his armor, spying a few new scratches and dents as he rolled his shoulders and got ready to continue. As Anakin charged him with his lightsaber ignited, Wraith quickly calculated his angle and speed and timed the approach before lashing out with a sudden kick. But Anakin's body was not his target. His boot collided with the Jedi's prosthetic right hand and knocked his lightsaber out of his hand, sending it skittering across the ground. Drawing his pistol, Wraith fired two shots, each connecting with the hilt and propelling it even further away. Holstering his weapon, Wraith turned and back-kicked the stunned Jedi, sending Anakin back to the floor. The effortless ease in which Wraith had executed his disarming move was enough to rattle even Obi-Wan.

This Separatist was no pushover.

"Anakin, hold on! We'll help you!" He called, reaching for his lightsaber.

"No! Don't!" His friend replied, returning to his feet. "The rules were for this to be one-on-one. I can do this. I will honor that agreement." Anakin stated.

"Your funeral." Wraith rumbled, his sudden speech surprising the Republic. His voice was deeply synthesized and it's dark tone sent shivers through a few spines.

"So you do talk." Anakin mused, wiping away some blood. "How about I shut you up then?" Summoning the Force, Anakin sprinted towards Wraith with unthinkable speed, his fist cocked back and ready. The Jedi grinned as he finally landed a hit, fist connecting with Wraith's midsection. Rounding another blow, Anakin's left hook smashed Wraith across the face immediately afterwards. The Force enabled him to move faster than Wraith could think, giving him a very clear advantage.

"That's it General, you've got him!" Rex cheered.

"Yeah! Way to go Skyguy!" Ahsoka applauded. But Wraith recovered in seconds, slowly turning back to face Anakin, the blows hurting no more than a simple puff of air. Anakin could see the unfazed posture and blanked, surprised he had accomplished nothing. He quickly lobbed another jab that was caught by Wraith. With his hand trapped, Anakin instinctively lashed out with his other hand, only to have it caught as well. Struggling against Wraith's iron grip, Anakin found himself at a severe disadvantage, especially when Wraith suddenly twisted his arms. Grunting in pain, Anakin struggled to win, struggled to properly focus. The multiple blows were starting to get to him, the ache in his body starting to overwhelm even his advanced senses. And then, driving his helmeted head forward, Wraith bashed Anakin with a powerful headbutt. The unbreakable metal of his helmet crushed Anakin's nose, blood instantly streaming out and splattering across Wraith's helmet as Anakin stumbled back with a cry. Clutching his nose, Anakin was now bleeding from multiple points and the pain was jaggedly interrupting his focus.

Wraith saw his opportunity and went for it.

The Republic stood shocked as Wraith suddenly became a blurr of movement, striking fast and hard, blows colliding with Anakin over and over again without mercy, battering the Jedi and beating him black and blue. Blood flew from his split lip, broken nose and multiple cuts, splattering the floor with each heavy punch from Wraith. Finally, the super-soldier spun and executed another lunge kick, knocking Anakin flat on his back. The Separatists applauded again as Anakin fought for a breather.

"Ha!" Tol let out an audible chuckle. "Let's see a Jedi recover from that!" The Separatists collectively agreed with shared smiles, glad to see the Jedi poster-boy down on the ground, a bloody and bruised wreck.

"You show 'em Wraith! We're the superior ones!" Sora called, earning a cheer from Tol. Anakin heard their jeering applause but brushed it off, struggling to get back up. He soon found himself looking up at Wraith's towering form. The super-soldier seized the opportunity before him and brought his heavy boot down on Anakin's chest. The sound of ribs cracking under his stomp made the Republic watchers cringe, Anakin grimacing as pain instantly registered with him, shooting through his chest. Summoning the Force to dull his pain receptors, Anakin had no time to move as Wraith reached down and picked him up, grabbing him by the throat. The soldier turned and threw the Jedi across the room, tossing him as though he weighed nothing. But as Anakin flew through the air, something within him was engaged.

He'd had enough of being Wraith's plaything.

Summoning the Force to right himself, Anakin landed on his feet and slid to a halt. Looking up with a newfound fire in his eyes, he stretched out his hand and called his lightsaber to him. The hilt instantly whipped across the room and into his hand. Igniting his blue blade, Anakin stood up.

He had found his second wind.

Throwing Wraith back with the Force, Anakin also tore up a thick piece of the floor. As Wraith bounced off the wall and hit the ground, Anakin threw the piece of debris at him. The super-soldier had no time to move and the floor piece slammed into him, crushing him between the wall and the floor. No movement came as the dust settled, Anakin's shoulders heaving as he regained his composure. His body burned and ached and he'd like nothing more than to call this fight right now.

After all, given how thick and heavy that floor chunk was, Wraith likely wouldn't be getting up any time soon.

"My... M-My floor..." Suribran muttered, none too pleased with the necessary repairs that would be required.

"Sorry Premire," Anakin breathed, looking significantly worse for wear, "Now then, why don't we-" He was interrupted by the shifting of the debris as it slid to one side and hit the ground with a heavy thud. A dusty Wraith sprung to his feet, his armor heavily scratched up and looking less than pristine. Wiping away the particles clinging to his helmet, Wraith's mind rapidly assembled a profile on Anakin. He hit hard and fast, but his strikes were thought out. His willingness to use the Force would clearly test Wraith's endurance, but the super-soldier was confident he could take it. Anakin's own endurance had surprised him, though. The Jedi should've dropped by now.

Clearly he was no pushover. If he could, Wraith needed to ramp up his attacks.

The super-soldier started walking towards his Jedi opponent, standing tall despite his disheveled state. Anakin looked far worse, his robes frayed, torn and stained with his own blood. His face was bruised and bloody, having borne the brunt of Wraith's fury. Anakin raised his lightsaber, readying for another round.

But then, he extended his hand and curled his fingers around. Wraith stopped and felt his throat, his airway restricted as invisible hands choked him. Gasping for breath, Wraith struggled to fight back as he was gradually deprived of oxygen.

"Master! What are you doing?!" Ahsoka cried, sensing Anakin dip into the Dark Side to pull this off.

"What has to be done Ahsoka." Anakin replied, his gaze on Wraith as he drove the super-soldier to his knees.

"Anakin stop!" Obi-Wan demanded. "You're going to far!" His friend didn't respond and simply continued to choke Wraith out.

Suddenly, the super-soldier tossed a disc to the ground, a concussive flash of light and smoke temporarily blinding Anakin and causing him to lose focus. Gasping in some air, Wraith quickly crawled to his feet and rushed Anakin, grabbing the arm that held his lightsaber. Anakin gathered his senses and fought back, trying to free his arm. But in a demonstration of superior physical strength, Wraith grabbed Anakin's lightsaber and ripped it from his grip.

The Republic was stunned. Wraith just overpowered Anakin! Through sheer strength alone he had managed to fend off Anakin and take his lightsaber from him.

No one could do that!

Wraith promptly backhanded Anakin across the face. The force of the blow was enough to send him spinning. "Hold this." Wraith called to Dooku as he tossed the deactivated lightsaber to his superior. The Sith Lord caught it with the Force and tucked his hand away behind his cape. Anakin was still reeling from Wraith's most recent blow as the Separatist caught him by the neck and hoisted him into the air. "Nice scar." Wraith commented on the red line tracing Anakin's right eye. "How about I give you a few more?" Suddenly dropping Anakin on his feet, Wraith reached behind him and slashed with his knife again. This time, the blade cut across the Jedi's face, slicing a fresh wound across his nose. Anakin barely had time to recover before Wraith struck again, cutting another scar across the Jedi's face and barely missing Anakin's left eye. Anakin cried out in pain as he clutched his face, more blood streaming around his hand. The wound on his forehead was annoying and these two stung something fierce.

He couldn't focus properly.

Lashing out in anger, Anakin attacked with a punch, only to be blocked by Wraith's waiting left hand. The Separatist retaliated with a right and left hook, cracking Anakin across the face with each punch. But as the Knight steeled himself for another right hook, Wraith surprised him by snapping out his elbow and bashing Anakin's cheek with his sharp, armored joint. The hard impact split open the skin and bruised the bone underneath, leaving Anakin bleeding with a very sore face. Popping his wrist blade, Wraith plunged his weapon int Anakin's right thigh, the Jedi howling as Wraith used his leverage to deliver two hard punches straight to the Jedi's broken ribs. Anakin felt like he was on the verge of collapsing, but a sudden resurgence in willpower flooded him with the fortitude to continue and he tapped into the Force. Just as Wraith came at him again, though, Anakin blasted him with a wave of telekinetic power, throwing Wraith back across the floor. A bleeding and battered Anakin, fuelled by a sudden rush of adrenaline, picked up the super-soldier and flung his body into the nearest decorative pillar. His body bounced off and hit the ground, leaving a sizeable crack behind as Anakin grabbed him again with the Force. He smashed Wraith into the pillar again, then hurled a piece of debris that slammed into his helmet. Using the Force, Anakin pitched Wraith back and forth like a ragdoll before finally throwing him clean across the room and into the steps leading to Suribran's throne. The super-soldier lay still, his chest slowly rising and falling in time with his breathing. With the adrenaline dying down, Anakin collapsed. All of his bodily receptors hit him en masse, overwhelming his senses. The pain was growing unbearable, every torturous second he stayed awake only resulted in more pain. Every move he made was agonizing. He internally cursed his longevity, for being able to take this punishment. He would give anything to succumb right now.

But he knew why he was here. He had to fight for Tibrin, for the sake of the Republic. He couldn't let the Separatists win, and yet here he was on the losing side of the fight.

Dooku had planned this. Curse that old man.

Anakin fought to rise. He would fight with whatever stamina was left in him, whatever amount of Force endurance he could summon to carry on. Pain wracked his every move, just being awake was unbearable. But he had to press on. He was the Chosen One, no Separatist could stop him. None had before and this 'Wraith' certainly wouldn't now!

He would make the comeback of a lifetime. Imagine the stories...

Finding renewed hope and a desire to fight back, Anakin summoned the Force to numb his pain and enhance his strength. As long as he kept his head in the game and remembered the power at his command, he could survive this fight. Rising to his feet, limping as he fought down the pain coursing through his thigh, Anakin raised himself to full height and sharply sucked in a lungful of air.

But he saw Wraith was also on his feet... and advancing towards him.

"No matter what you do... you won't stop me!" Anakin vowed, quickly deciding what course of action he should take. Pitching a left cross, Wraith seemed unfazed as he blocked Anakin's punch and countered with a blow to his midsection and one to his face, blood staining his knuckles as it flew from Anakin's mouth. Barely recovering, the Jedi pitched a wild right cross which Wraith caught.

"You don't get it, do you Skywalker?" Wraith wondered as he held Anakin's arm at bay and punched him square in the face. "This isn't an arena, it's a classroom..." Anakin stood puzzled by Wraith's strange comment, too stunned and too weak to fight back. "And I'm the teacher!" Forcibly pulling the Jedi in, Wraith drove his knee into Anakin's torso, the air rushing from his lungs as he doubled over. Wraith then executed a double-axehandle that put Anakin flat on the ground. "Know your place... beneath my feet." Wraith growled as he stood tall. With much effort, Anakin pushed himself to his hands and knees, spitting blood out of his mouth and onto the floor. But Wraith quickly lined up a shot and sent his boot crashing into Anakin's face. Anakin cried out as he was knocked onto his back, blood spraying from his facial wounds. Wraith paused to roll his shoulders and crack his neck, reveling in the rush of adrenaline pumping through his body. Anakin groaned as his broken body lay on the ground. It took so much effort to even breath he wondered if it was worth trying to get up.

But he had to. Somewhere, deep within him, Anakin felt a sudden desire to make Wraith feel as miserable as he did.

His pain fuelled him, turning his desperation into anger, anger turning into resolve as he tapped into the Force once again. With a roar, Anakin picked up Wraith with the Force and threw him across the room, the super-soldier crashing into the far wall before Anakin forcibly threw him into the floor below, the polished marble cracking on impact.

But Anakin was nowhere near done.

He threw Wraith into one pillar, then another, slamming the super-soldier around like a toy before finally dropping him to the floor, his armor dented and partly splitting away from his body. Wraith lay still and unmoving, his body not even twitching as he lay on the ground. The Separatists exchanged uneasy glances, believing their champion to be downed. Count Dooku met their uncertain looks with a glance of his own. He could feel Wraith through the Force and knew he was still conscious. But had Anakin really taken that much out of him?

The Republic, although a little unnerved by Anakin suddenly lashing out like that, were still pleased The Wraith was down. This fight would soon be over...

Or so they thought.

Striding over to the super-soldier, Anakin stood tall over The Wraith. "It's over." He stated, confident in his victory. He might've gotten a little bloody, but he still came out on top.

"For you." Wraith suddenly growled. Lashing out with a sweeping kick, Wraith's boot hit Anakin in the side of the knee, the Jedi faltering and crying out in sudden pain. Wraith then drove his foot into Anakin's knee, the joint shattering and snapping backwards at a most unnatural angle. Anakin cried out as pain shot through him, bones clearly broken. Collapsing, the pain surging through Anakin's body overwhelmed his mind, stunning him long enough for Wraith to rise and tackle the Jedi, throwing him to the ground. Then Wraith unloaded punch after punch into Anakin's face, mercilessly pummeling him over and over with his metal-clad fists. Anakin's head forcefully snapped this way and that, blood flying from wounds old and new as Wraith laid into him. He slugged Anakin over and over again, his fists crashing into his face with a merciless torrent of hard-hitting blows as his fury guided his actions. Anakin's blood was soon splattered across the floor of the room, with each heavy punch a fresh spurt of red fluid painted the knuckles on Wraith's gloves, drawn from either his mouth, nose or one of the many cuts on his face. Obi-Wan, Padme, Rex and Ahsoka could only look on, helpless to stop the carnage unfolding before them. Summoning enough coherence to use the Force, Anakin pushed Wraith off of him, then grabbed his face as he felt a constant, stinging pain overwhelm him. He lay on the floor, gasping for breath, his blood painting the floor around him. He felt heavy and weak. But then a shadow fell across his body.

The Wraith wasn't finished yet.

Grabbing Anakin by the hair, Wraith painfully hoisted him to his knees, the Jedi grunting as pain from multiple points hit him full-force. Presented before the Republic, Anakin saw his friends through bleary vision. A vision that was shattered when Wraith grabbed his right arm and drove his own armored knee into the back of Anakin's shoulder, dislocating the joint with a sickening crack. Anakin cried out as yet another sharp pain shot through his body. Wraith held him in place, applying pressure to the broken joint and forcing his victim to stay down. "Give up, Jedi. Your fight is over," he growled. Anakin felt Wraith's grip tighten around his arm, "FINISHED!" With a sudden roar the Separatist ripped away Anakin's prosthetic arm in a show of great strength. Skywalker screamed with intense pain as sparks showered from the stub of his missing limb. The reaction from the Republic was identical: Padme gasped and covered her mouth as did Ahsoka. Obi-Wan looked shocked, even a little scared, as his mouth opened wordlessly. Rex was lost for words. His own general, so unshakable in the field of battle was now a bleeding wreck. Nobody hurt him. Nobody could!

But Wraith could. And he did.

Even the Separatists cringed a little, only imaging the pain of having a limb ripped off. Releasing his grip, Wraith dropped Anakin to the floor and tossed away the remains of his mechanical arm. Groaning in pain, Anakin rolled over onto his side, his good arm reaching out to hold his severed one. But Wraith delivered a swift kick to his chest. His heavy metal boot collided with and broke several more ribs with a crunch. Swiftly followed by another kick to the guts, Anakin gasped as the air rushed from his lungs. With a nudge from Wraith's boot Anakin lay flat on his back, wheezing for breath as pain wracked his body with every movement. Reaching down, Wraith's fingers clasped tightly around Anakin's neck and hoisted him up with a grip like steel. He paused to take in his handiwork. Blood oozed from the large cut above Anakin's eyes and from the numerous wounds around his face. It dripped from both his mouth and his broken nose. His entire face was stained by his own life fluids. Bruises dotted his face and an obvious black eye was beginning to show on his right. "The 'Chosen One'." Wraith rumbled, sizing up the bloody Anakin. "Those words mean nothing to me." He growled in a show of dominance. Summoning his vast arm strength, Wraith pitched Anakin into another nearby pillar. The defeated Knight crumpled on contact and fell to the ground in a heap, knocked unconscious by the blow.

For a moment, everything went quiet. The Republic looked on horrified as the beaten Anakin lay unmoving and Wraith stood tall, victorious over the Jedi. He had taken quite the beating himself, but he was still standing.

"Are you quite finished soldier?" Dooku asked him. Wraith responded with a shrug. "Perhaps it is time to call a winner?" Wraith paused. Perhaps it was time to end this. He had certainly beat the so-called 'Chosen One', probably half-to death, and was quite certain he'd run out of things to-

No. Not yet. He had one last idea. A very demoralizing one...

Walking over to Anakin's body, he picked up his unconscious form with one hand.

"Oh what now?" Obi-Wan bemoaned seeing Wraith's actions. Hadn't his friend endured enough already? But Wraith simply walked over to the Republic and dropped Anakin's body down before them. Then he raised his boot and set it down on top of Anakin. The same way a conqueror would to a defeated opponent. He stared down the group of Republic representatives with a threatening gaze.

He had beaten their hero... and they would be next.

Pausing to fix his gaze on Obi-Wan, Wraith hoped his look had sent the message 'You're next' to the Jedi. Stepping off of Skywalker and giving his body a final half-hearted kick, Wraith turned around and began to walk back to the Separatists, finally satisfied.

"Premier, I believe it is time to announce the victor of this contest." Count Dooku told Tu, more than pleased with the results. The Republic were already kneeling by Anakin's bludgeoned form, taking in just how much damage Wraith had dealt.

"I-Indeed." Suribran stammered, overly stunned by the spectacular display of violence.

He would definitely need to have a servant clean the floor as soon as possible.

"The winner, by flawless victory, The Wraith! Representing the Confederacy of Independent Systems." The Premier announced. The Separatists applauded their hero, cheering on The Wraith as he crossed his arms, feeling quite triumphant. The Republic made no response as all of them were tending to Anakin however they could.

He was a serious mess.

"Count Dooku, you have swayed me with this most impressive display." Suribran commented.

"I'm glad you see things from our point of view." Dooku politely responded. "Why have a Chosen One when you have a Wraith?" He mused with a smirk, throwing a glance at the Republic side. Obi-Wan looked up from Anakin's bloody form.

"This brutality will not stand! Mark my words Dooku, there will be retribution! You won't get away with any of this!" He exclaimed. The count was amused, Obi-Wan seldom lost his cool demeanour and it was always amusing to see him do so.

"He will. I'm here to make sure of that." Wraith growled. Obi-Wan stood and reached for his lightsaber. "Care to add your blood to the collection?" He wondered.

"I simply ask that you return Anakin's lightsaber. Immediately. I will take it by force if I must." Obi-Wan replied with a frown.

"I'm almost tempted to make you come and take it. One Jedi Master against four Sith and one Separatist who just beat the Chosen One to a bloody pulp. I am quite curious to see the end result of that fight." Dooku mused aloud. "But, I have what I want." Removing his hand from his cloak, Dooku extended his arm. "Wraith, if you would." The soldier walked over and took the hilt from Dooku before walking back towards Obi-Wan and outstretching his hand. But he did not toss the hilt to Obi-Wan.

He wanted him to come and take it.

Stepping forward, Obi-Wan reached out and took hold of the hilt, glaring daggers at Wraith. The Separatist remained unfazed as he allowed the hilt to slip from his grasp and into Obi-Wan's. A tense moment passed as Obi-Wan continued to glare at Wraith for a few more seconds.

That's when Wraith struck and sucker-punched the Jedi.

Obi-Wan reeled back, clutching his jaw as Wraith calmly crossed his arms. The Separatists collectively chuckled at the sudden strike, impressed by Wraith's gutsy move.

"You...!" The Jedi growled. But he did not retaliate and instead turned back to Anakin. Wraith chuckled darkly.

"Next time Kenobi. Next time..." He rumbled.

"Now I believe it's time to establish a Separatist presence here." The count mused. Suribran nodded, ready to accept Dooku's terms and also ready to sign control of Tibrin over to the Separatists.

But Dooku had a much different plan in mind.

"Wraith, if you will?" Dooku asked him. The soldier nodded, drew his pistol and took aim at Suribran. The Premier froze, taken aback by the startling move.

"From now on, Tibrin's under new management," Wraith declared, "one that respects the Ishi-Tib." Pulling the trigger, Suribran fell dead with a blaster wound in his forehead. The royal guards had no time to act and could only stare helplessly at the body of their leader. The Republic turned with a start and saw both the Premier's dead body and Wraith holstering his pistol.

"What have you done Dooku?!" Padme exclaimed.

"I have removed a blight from this world, lifted a burden from the shoulders of the Ishi-Tib." The count calmly explained. "Suribran Tu was a dictator who mercilessly oppressed his people, something the Republic has turned a blind eye to for too long." Wraith couldn't help but nod as Dooku revealed the truth. "We are here to liberate the Ishi-Tib, and I should say we have done just that." At that moment, a pair of servants ran over to Dooku and the Wraith, bowing before them and repeatedly thanking them for liberating them. Dooku instructed them both to gather all the people, he had a proclamation to make. "Go on home Senator. The Republic is no longer welcome here." Dooku dismissed Padme with a dark edge to his voice, as if prepared to act upon his threatening words. They slowly made to leave, Rex and Obi-Wan gingerly hoisting Anakin's body off the ground and carefully carrying him out. But as they turned to leave, Ahsoka looked back at Wraith with a determined fire in her eyes.

"I will avenge my master! Just you wait!" She declared, her voice hoarse with emotion. Wraith chuckled,

"Next time, my dear." He responded. With that Ahsoka turned and left, following Padme and the others. Wraith took a deep breath as the copious amounts of adrenaline coursing through him began to wear off.

It was over. It was all over.

He had beaten Anakin Skywalker, the Chosen One, to a bloody pulp.

If that didn't send a threatening message... he wasn't sure what else could.


A great crowd of Ishi-Tib gathered before one of the open balconies of the palace. Mere minutes after the sound defeat of Anakin Skywalker and the death of Suribran Tu, Count Dooku had sent servants to rally the people and gather them together. He had an announcement to make. The expectant throng looked up, waiting for something... anything. Many were hoping for a sign of deliverance, surely the Separatists had come to Tibrin with that cause in mind. Why else would they be here?

Above the crowd, towards the back of the platform, Count Dooku and The Wraith had exited the palace and were slowly advancing to the edge of the balcony, conversing back and forth. Wraith was still covered in splatters of Anakin's blood, something that simply added to his already menacing form.

"Tell me Wraith, during the fight with Skywalker, what was your strategy?" Dooku inquired of the super-soldier.

"Skywalker has a 'whatever you do, I can do better' mentality. I employed this against him, using only average tactics and basic skills to prove his abilities next to worthless against me. I worked my way into his head, showed him how weak his lightsaber combat was by easily disarming him and deflecting everything he threw my way. This forced him to try fighting the way I do, and it became his downfall." Wraith explained. Having studied the person of Anakin Skywalker beforehand, Wraith had a pretty clear image of what to expect before he even arrived on Tibrin. Dooku was impressed by just how cunning and prepared Wraith was. The amount of brainpower required to outsmart a Jedi was something few possessed.

And Wraith happened to be one of those few.

"Those were only 'average' tactics and 'basic' abilities?" He questioned with a raised eyebrow. Wraith paused and reconsidered his earlier statement.

"Perhaps I slightly understated that." He mused.

"I should say so!" Count Dooku laughed. If what he had witnessed was average and basic, he had to wonder what 'advanced' and 'difficult' looked like. "If I'm not mistaken, that was Teras Kasi you were demonstrating?" Wraith nodded in reply.

"Correct. It's my preferred fighting style, quick and deadly." The ancient fighting form had been Wraith's primary source for training. It was from this position and stance he could execute almost any given move at any time. It proved to be both versatile and reliable. The two Separatists arrived at the edge of the balcony, their presence arousing a great clamour from the throng below. Ever so slowly, Count Dooku raised his hand to reveal the severed head of Suribran Tu in his hand.

The crowd was ecstatic.

Neither Separatists had ever heard such clamourous cheering before. Truly the Ishi-Tib were overjoyed to see their oppressor finally vanquished. Count Dooku tossed the head over the side of the balcony and spread out his arms.

"Citizens of Tibrin!" He called in a loud voice. "You are free!" His words were met with even more applause, cheers and shouts of joy. Wraith crossed his arms as he took in the sight before them, the impressive sight of the masses finally freed from Republic tyranny.

He had to admit, it felt good to bring about Separatist rule.

The crowd began chanting, celebrating their victorious saviour.

"DOOKU! DOOKU! DOOKU!" The roar was growing louder with each passing second, soon the whole planet would know the name of its new leaders. Dooku raised his hands to quiet the crowd.

"No longer shall you be held under the oppressive boot of a Republic regime!" He declared. "From now on, you shall enjoy the freedom of the Separatist Alliance!" The crowd roared loudly once more, very much approving of the count's speech. Then, from behind them, a commotion arose that drew Wraith and Dooku's attention away from the crowds. Sora emerged from the palace with someone else struggling in his grip. Wraith instantly recognized the white armour.

"My lord, we have found a spy!" Sora announced, throwing the Clone down on the ground before Dooku. "Kadrian and Tol caught this Clone sneaking around the palace." Dooku arched an eyebrow and folded his hand behind his back.

"A spy? So soon? Has the Republic left yet?" He asked Sora.

"Last we checked, they were still awaiting departure. This one must have a reason for being here." Wraith glanced over the prisoner before them and he immediately recognized the green marking on his armor.

"Clone Commander CT-1004, better known as 'Gree'." He growled. "What would a Clone Commander be doing all by himself?"

"A very good question Wraith." Dooku mused. "On your feet." He ordered Gree. The Clone slowly stood, keeping his gaze on the two Separatists before him. "Now answer the soldier, what are you doing here?"

"I don't have to answer you." Gree replied in a defiant tone. Dooku sized up the Clone before them. Wraith threw Dooku a casual glance, silently wondering what his superior had in mind. With one hand, Dooku pushed the Clone to the edge in full view of the crowd below. Wraith was impressed by the deafening jeers and boos that came from the crowd. Standing beside the Clone, Dooku raised and arm and gestured with a thumbs up. The crowd continued to respond negatively. But when Dooku gave a thumbs down, the reaction was the exact opposite.

And it didn't take long for Gree to clue in.

"Wait! I surrender. Take me prisoner." He quickly told Dooku.

"Not today, trooper." The count calmly replied, turning to Wraith and giving him a nod. But Gree was persistent.

"You don't understand, you have to! According to war regulations, you have to show me mercy because I have willingly surrendered!" Understanding what his superior wanted, Wraith walked up behind Gree to silence his pathetic begging.

"Silence, Clone!" He thundered, kicking him in the back of the knee and driving him to the ground. "Towards the Republic, we show no mercy." Wraith hissed. Dooku paused to take in the crowd as they looked up in expectation. It appeared he had gained enough of their favour that they were eager to demand the public execution of one of their enemies. Perfect.

"Wraith, the people demand death for this Clone. Would you do the honours?" He asked the soldier. Wraith nodded in reply and quickly thought of a gruesome and unforgettable way to dispatch this duplicate.

A thought came to him... and he acted upon it.

Dooku stepped back next to Sora as Wraith came around to Gree's front, ensuring the crowd could see him. He drew his fist back, readying his hand and summoning his strength as he carried out his plan of execution. The result would prove to be very bloody if all went well. If not... it would be rather embarassing. Thrusting his fist forward with incredible force and power, Wraith punched Gree in the face so hard his fist and arm exploded through the Clone's head. Blood showered the floor behind the Clone as Wraith's bloody fist protruded from the back of Gree's head. The crowd roared in approval, cheering on the execution as a symbolic representation of the Republic's defeat.

"Well, that was... fatal." Sora mused with a slight wince.

"I'm sure it's not the first time Wraith has executed a Clone in such a manner. He boasts an impressive history of battlefield fatalities." Dooku calmly replied, checking to make sure there was no blood on his boots.

"And I'm nowhere near done." Wraith added, withdrawing his fist from the interior of Gree's head. Another splatter of blood, skull fragments and brain matter hit the ground as Wraith shook his bloody arm free of debris, the Clone's dead body hitting the ground with a meaty thunk. "Now that the Republic knows not even their high and mighty Jedi can beat me, this is only the beginning of my work." Wraith growled, feeling quite proud of himself.

"A mission that will continue on Mygeeto." Dooku mused, stepping a little closer. "You have done your duty Wraith. I thank you for your service and your efforts in favour of the Separatists. We'll wrap things up here, you're needed elsewhere."

"If you ever need another Jedi beaten down... don't hesitate to call. Bloodsport happens to be a favourite of mine." Wraith replied as he stepped past the two Sith, blood still dripping down his arm. As Dooku roused the crowd with words of encouragement, Wraith was feeling quite pleased with recent events. Not only did he get to bludgeon a Jedi poster-boy, but he also got to execute a Clone commander... all in the same day.

It had truly been a good day.

Battle always gave him a real rush, but battling a Jedi and beating him so soundly gave him a whole different kind of rush. Feeling the power course through his body as he reduced such a fearful opponent to a bloody mess was truly a wonderful feeling. A feeling he was getting used to and thoroughly enjoying.

Wraith returned to Mygeeto as promptly as he had left and lead the Separatists to victory over the entrenched Clone forces. The Republic was pushed back and suffered major setbacks as the Separatists emerged triumphant.

Back on Coruscant, a comatose Anakin lay in the Jedi Temple's Halls of Healing, a mess of cuts, bruises and an overall swollen mess. Ahsoka and Obi-Wan stood alone with their thoughts, remembering each passing second of the fight on Tibrin. Though they'd rather forget, neither of them could deny the sheer power of Wraith as he eagerly beat Anakin to a pulp.

If the Chosen One himself could be laid so low, could anyone truly stop The Wraith?

Both Jedi were convinced that something needed to be done. This could not go unanswered.

The Wraith had to be dealt with.


Author's Note: Six and a half pages of Anakin getting the snot beat out of him... how's that for a beatdown? Don't worry, there's more on the way. Bonus points to whoever knows where 'Teras Kasi' comes from...

You all up for a challenge? I hope so. I'm looking for some ideas for future chapters/plots involving The Wraith. If you've got some, send me a PM. I'd love to hear from you and hear your ideas!