Hello there everyone this is Apollo with the second chapter of The Last Apprentice. I apologize for the delay in chapter two, I was distracted with this recent holiday season, but I'm now at attention. College has resumed, begrudgingly, and that will certainly impede on chapter developments. However, let's ignore those problems for now and focus on the current chapter, for today I bring you Chapter two.
First off I'd like to thank all of the feedback and support that this story has been getting, despite only having one chapter prior. Now I will address questions and ideas in the author note sections, either in the upper, which is more likely, or the bottom, least likely. At the same time I will explain some aspects that might have been troubling to those who found certain parts confusing or questionable in the bottom to review. Outside of that I'll begin answering questions.
AegisHayabusa: "Will there be a time when Naruto declares war on someone in the Shinobi world and unleashes the full power of the Imperial War Machine on the poor fools who'd dare oppose him? Also what should we expect from the pair? Will it be mainstream or not basically? Also since this is an AU, I know stupid statement considering it's a crossover, will there be differences in shinobi history because of this?"
-Yes, at some point Naruto will utilize the imperial forces at his command to wage war against his enemies on Elemental. When that will happen and who will he be fighting will not be revealed at the moment. The pairing will not be mainstream, mainly because I don't want to polarize and because the pairing itself seems appropriate in terms of the story and character arc Naruto goes through. Lastly shinobi history will be different indeed...who ever stated that Elemental was never discovered prior to Palpatine?
Djberneman: "Why wouldn't any of the shinobi use any summoning contracts to assist them? Also, what about mass uses of elemental techniques? Sidious couldn't possibly protect himself and all his troops from constant attacks on all sides."
-Why would they? Depending on the summoning contract the summoning animal could do more harm to the village than help especially against just a single threat. As for the "mass" use of elemental techniques, that was more so them trying to defeat the guards considering that they were beating the crap out of them. Lastly, in regards to Sidious, EU opens the pathway many would call BS, and yet justifies so much at the same time. Sidious in this story will be the EU representation, but with a few changes, so considering that he could use force storm, and for the most part control it, why wouldn't he be capable of creating a force shield around him and his men?
Awsome Guy: "one question will naruto have one lightsaber, two lightsabers, a doubleblade lightsaber or two lightsaber that turns into one doubleblade lightsaber?"
-It's in debate at the current moment. I will say that will not have a double-bladed lightsaber. He will have a single lightsaber in the beginning, but that can change in time as well.
Sharken: "will there be other force users on Naruto's homeworld or will it just be him? Also, when considering your previous version, how far do you truly plan to go with this story? Either way I'm interested in it and can't wait till the next chapter!"
-In short, yes there are other force sensitive beings on Naruto's homeworld. In terms of planning I have decided that this story will mainly focus on Naruto's development into a Sith Lord who will eventually defeat his master and claim sovereignty over the Imperial Remnants. After that will be debatable, since I have thought of doing a trilogy with this being the first but I've been debating on that. For now I'm only focusing on this story.
Alright with that out of the way I have nothing left to discuss so let's get on with the story!
Disclaimer: I do not own Star Wars or Naruto! Both are owned by their own respective owners and distributers. This is purely for entertainment and is in no way for profit. Please support the official release!
"It has been nine years since Naruto was taken by Sidious and has been learning in the ways of the Sith. Learning from the dark lord and his subordinates Naruto has become a trained fighter. Now at the age of thirteen he has been given his first major assignment…"
Chapter 2: Festering Hatred
19 ABY
There was nothing to be said as a solemn figured looked out towards the metropolis before him. Eyes skimming from one point to the other as the individual starred out from their vantage point. Residing in a room in one of the taller buildings the individual, whose hair was blonde and spiked remained alone with a sense of boredom evident upon his composure. His blue eyes scouring across the expanse displayed before him from a large window as to try and discover something new from their view upon registering the sound of a door sliding open.
Readjusting his eyes so that they were facing forward, Naruto readjusted himself as he heard the single individual walking over towards him. "I often wondered why it was that I was tasked in training you, considering your lack of understanding," came the voice, as the individual stopped directly next to Naruto. "the headaches you've caused through your carefree nature and destructive tendencies have certainly made me question my endeavor."
"Let's be fair, you would've found it to boring if I was more disciplined." Naruto countered as he looked up at his teacher. Standing next to rather tall and dignified Imperial officer. Finding himself being viewed upon by his teacher's red eyes certainly brought back nostalgia but also comfort as well.
"On the contrary, I found myself relieved when I was pulled from the lackluster position given to me by my people upon my return. To me a task is better executed when one is able to adapt and have control over the resources properly." His teacher stated with a slight hint of joy.
"Thrawn-sensei, you're really something you know that?" Naruto commented causing the Chiss to smirk ever so slightly.
"That is because I carry with me knowledge and dignity." Thrawn replied causing Naruto to scoff mockingly in amusement.
"Please, you and I both know that you lost your dignity once you were chased back into the unknown regions and forced into that desk job." Naruto snickered as he saw the disdain appear on Thrawn's face at the mention of the past.
Changing his viewpoint to the window that was before them, Thrawn began to recount said past in his mind. The embarrassment, and humiliation that occurred at Jakku, all because of Gallius Rax's plan to restart the Empire after the "supposed defeat" to take the galaxy by surprise. It infuriated Thrawn, mainly due to the waste of life that was thrown so carelessly away just to achieve that goal.
"Hardly something to worry about considering that the Imperial Remnants have been reorganized by your master." Thrawn stated calmly, but to Naruto he could discern the animosity that was hidden within his speech. "Had I been there more Imperial lives could have been saved, instead of the useless slaughter."
Naruto remained silent as he recalled the lessons taught to him by Thrawn and the other officers. Unlike the officers appointed by his master Thrawn was willing to explain the parts that the officers wouldn't, such as the failures of the Empire. After some time, Naruto had managed to convince Sidious to let him learn from Thrawn exclusively under the pretense of learning from the former Grand Admiral in hopes of expanding his knowledge and leadership skills. The fact that Sidious regarded Thrawn with little interest after learning of his dissatisfaction with how Sidious managed the Remnant and future goals, this was an undertaking that took much time and effort on Naruto's part.
"I'd say it was a poor decision on my master's part to not reinstate you into Imperial services." Naruto stated. "No one in the fleet is as skilled in tactics and management as you are, regardless if my master oversees it or not from that dreadnought of his."
"That dreadnought is nothing to scoff at." Thrawn stated. "Had its construction been completed along with the fleet that would support it, it would've been a major threat to anyone foolish enough to resist."
"Do you honestly believe that?" Naruto asked his teacher.
"Who do you think was going to oversee that fleet?" Thrawn asked rhetorically causing Naruto to raise a brow in surprise.
"I never took my master as someone to allow an alien species that wasn't human to claim command of his flagship." Naruto commented.
"My rank in the imperial navy should have been a clear indication otherwise." Thrawn pointed out causing Naruto to think on it for a second before nodding in agreement. "With the Eclipse and the other remaining fleets, we could have defeated the Rebellion by denying them their fleet, which would have fallen from the inevitable clash."
"I take it you were already making plans on how you were going to utilize such a fleet in battle weren't you." Naruto guessed openly causing Thrawn to leave his position next to Naruto, causing said blond to watch him make his way over towards the door.
"There is nothing left that can be done to change the past, so let us move away from it." Thrawn stated as he motions for Naruto to follow him. Abiding his teachers request he made his way towards Thrawn's side where he followed him into the hallway. "As for today, this will be the last time we'll be able to communicate."
"So, I'm finally going out on my first big mission." Naruto concluded.
"As far as I'm aware you will be receiving more information from your master aboard the Eclipse in orbit." Thrawn stated. Naruto noticed the sudden change in his voice, albeit an ever so small change that concerned him.
"The main weapon shouldn't be ready yet, besides that he wouldn't dare harm the only allies we have out here do you?!" Naruto whispered to his teacher as they moved through the semi-crowed hallway of the capital building of Csaplar. Moving amongst the many dignitaries that filled it the two moved efficiently towards the transit station.
"Regardless the fact that the ships hang over in orbit regardless of the concerns of my people they haven't moved the fleet over towards the drydock station." Thrawn stated. "Your master is playing a dangerous game."
"My master is not someone to oppose sadly, at least for someone not attuned to the force." Naruto stated.
"Regardless, I will do what I must to protect my people." Thrawn affirmed causing Naruto to remain silent. The two reached an elevator that would take them down to the level the transit station was at.
Upon entering the elevator Naruto continued the conversation. "Don't worry Thrawn-sensei, I won't allow my master to attack your people, not after all they've done to support us, I promise."
"Sadly, your words carry little weight regarding the actions of that tyrant." Thrawn pointed out which made Naruto seethe, not towards Thrawn but due to his own weakness.
"Then I will have no choice then if it comes to it." Naruto stated as the elevator reached the designated floor allowing the doors to open and for the two to exit. "After all you know I never go back on my word."
"Don't be foolish Naruto, my peoples' concerns don't involve you, if anything it would just lead to severe punishment." Thrawn urged his student not wishing for him to be involved any more than he should.
"I will defend whom I choose and strike down those that would harm them, regardless if they are my master or not." Naruto replied as they made their way towards the transit station where a shuttle with Imperial Stormtroopers was waiting for Naruto.
Walking up the platform towards the shuttle, Thrawn abruptly stopped in place causing Naruto to stop once he noticed that Thrawn was a few feet behind him. "This is where I must depart from Naruto, I'm afraid that I'm no longer aloud any closer to an imperial craft of any kind." Thrawn stated causing Naruto to scowl. "I wish you luck on your mission and a safe return."
"Hey," Naruto called out to Thrawn, who was about to turn away to leave. "don't worry about me I'll be fine. You take care of yourself sensei, and don't worry I will never let something happen to you or your people." With a smile to end his sentence Naruto turned to enter the shuttle missing the slight smile that had formed on Thrawn's face.
With that the two departed from each other as Thrawn returned inside of the capital building, while Naruto entered the shuttled, followed by the guard detail. With a subtle roar of the engines the shuttle lifted off towards the spaceport where his personal shuttle was waiting for him.
Once the shuttle landed Naruto was met with the sight of his personal guard standing at attention waiting for him. With the shuttle landed the doors opened allowing for Naruto to exit the ship. After exiting the shuttle, the commander of the squad moved forward to address Naruto. "Young master," the Commander greeted with a fall to attention. "Your ship has been prepped and is ready to depart."
"Very good Commander we're leaving immediately, so get your squad ready to depart." Naruto stated getting an acknowledgment before heading into his ship which was an Imperial Raider II-class corvette, named the Cyclone. At the same time Naruto's personal guard flanked him on both sides as they entered the ship from the bottom ramp that had been resting below the ship.
Noticing this maneuver, Naruto began to relax as he felt more at eased knowing that he couldn't be easily due to the height difference. "Young master, I wouldn't relax just yet, we still need to enter the ship." The commander mentioned.
"It's fine Crow, at this point I'm just glad that nothing has happened." Naruto mentioned.
"I doubt that another attempt on your life would happen in the open." The trooper that stood parallel to Commander Crow stated.
"Regardless, I'm more at ease knowing that I'm back on the Cyclone, Blue." Naruto stated. The trooper nicknamed blue didn't seem to show any signs of acknowledgment due to his helmet covering his face, but Naruto could tell through his training of the force that he did.
Once the inside the group maneuvered up the bridge where the Captain of the Cyclone was waiting for him. Entering the bridge, Naruto met with Captain Talion, a former Imperial special forces agent who takes pride in her work. "Young master, did everything go according to plan?" The captain asked as Naruto walked up to join her at the helm, while his guard lined the walls in the back of the bridge.
"The Chiss ascendancy will continue assisting in the endeavor of completing Project: Whirlwind, and they have already begun testing some of the prototypes." Naruto mentioned to the Captain before handing her a data drive, which she placed in her pocket immediately. "Before long we'll be able to commence the operation and begin to undo everything."
Nodding at this the Captain turned and addressed the crew. "Alright let's head up to fleet and make sure the young master makes it on time to meet with the Emperor!" With that a message was relayed across the ship and its crew informing them to finish loading the ship with supplies and that they'll be departing in twenty minutes.
Within that timeframe supplies were brought onboard to restock the ship's storage areas. Everything was eventually finished within fifteen minutes, and when completed the loading crew reported to the bridge that everything was finished. Following a couple minutes later the loading ramp was raised and sealed as the Cyclone's thrusters activated with a roar as the ship rose up into the air before it began to fly away from the surface and into the cold vacuum of space.
The amount of time that passed before the ship was in space was only a matter of minutes, but during that time Naruto watched from the bridge as he saw the Imperial Sovereignty Fleet drifting in low orbit of Csilla. His attention was directed towards the one ship that overshadowed all the rest, the dreadnought, the Eclipse. Looking over his destination Naruto noticed the work ships that were centered around the superweapon.
'As I thought, it's not yet operational.' Naruto thought to himself as he watched his ship maneuver into the fleet and one of the crew members, Officer Daniels give the clearance code to the Eclipse command bridge as to allow them to board through one of the designated ports.
With a greenlight, the Cyclone maneuvered to the port designated and docked accordingly. Moving towards the hatch, Naruto waited for the port bridge was fully connected to the Cyclone and pressurized before he opened the blaster doors entering the bridge. Following behind him, his personal guard followed suite. When they neared the other side of the space bridge the port opened allowing them entrance. Once on the Eclipse Naruto was met by Commander Vash, who stood at attention as Naruto entered the Eclipse.
"At ease Commander," Naruto ordered allowing the Commander to resume his previous posture, which even to Naruto was still to tense. "I take it that you'll be directing me to my master today?" The question was rhetorical in all sense as it was obvious that was what he was doing there.
"His majesty is expecting you in the throne room," Commander Vash began before looking at Naruto's guards. "there is no need to worry he'll be fine with me." Stepping forward Commander Crow and the rest of the squad, interjected.
"No offense sir," Commander Crow stepped forward. "but we were tasked by the Emperor himself to protect the young master. We'll go wherever he goes." Vash sighing in annoyance couldn't argue against that statement, so long as he preferred to not go against his Emperor's will.
"Very well, then let's move, it's best that we don't leave the Emperor waiting." Vash stated as the group began making their way through the massive ship.
The walk itself took nearly thirty minutes of constant changes to moving walkways, elevators, and pathways before the group finally found themselves before the entrance to the throne room. Walking into it the group found the entrance guarded by the praetorian guards with their distinct red armor. Moving forward the group made their way up the first flight of stairs before they stopped. Only Naruto could move up further while the rest kneeled in front of their Emperor who was residing in his chair.
Upon reaching the same level as his master Naruto kneeled before the man. "You have summoned me my master?" Naruto asked with a distinct honorific.
"Yes, my young apprentice," Sidious answered, not yet revealing his intentions of the summons or the mission. "you have grown quite powerful during your time under my tutelage."
"That's because of your great wisdom my master." Naruto admitted causing Sidious to snicker a little bit.
"Of course, as it is by my own design that you have made it this far. Soon though you'll be ready to join me in our reconquest of the galaxy." Sidious stated before looking down to something in his hand. Directing Naruto's attention to the item Sidious's hand held the item loosely as to allow Naruto a better view of the item. It was a lightsaber, his lightsaber.
"Young Naruto when I first found you, you were but a child lost in the dark," Sidious began as he rose up from his seat and walked over towards his apprentice. "one that I had so hoped to mold into a worthy successor." Activating the lightsaber in his hand the crimson blade emerged from the handle only inches from Naruto's face. "A fine blade indeed my apprentice, when were you going to reveal this to me?"
Naruto's heart raced ever so slightly as he was surprised at how quickly his master had learned of his weapon. "My apologizes master," Naruto began. "I was meaning to inform you prior to this meeting, however, a situation occurred on my way back from my previous mission and I ended up needing to speak with the Aristocra of the Chiss over a matter that could've become an annoyance to you later."
"I care little for excuses apprentice." Sidious sneered as he lifted the blade away from Naruto's face. "My young apprentice I have had many students in my life time, surely you didn't think that I wouldn't have found out about this, now would you?"
Confused, Naruto wasn't ready for Sidious to reveal a data drive in his other hand. "According to the data on this drive you weren't speaking to the Aristocra because of some incident that occurred after you completed your mission. No, you were conspiring with them against me, your master."
"Master, if I may interject." Naruto spoke up, while also not daring to raise his head. "They are concerned with the position of the fleet, I went there to assure them that they have nothing to fear."
"You informed them that the Eclipse's primary weapon is currently incapacitated?" Sidious questioned with his lightsaber steady in his hand.
"No master, I informed them only that they have nothing to fear from us. That as they are our allies they should have no reason to fear our fleet, so long as they have done nothing to insight our wrath master." Naruto explained.
"And what of the Aristocra's response?" Sidious demanded.
"They are still questionable, many of them don't trust you master. I have attempted to sway their minds to better favor you, however, I will not lie to you, some have considered a forceful interpose." Naruto answered truthly causing Sidious to sneer further.
"I see, so it's as I thought then," Sidious mumbled to himself as he deactivated the lightsaber and returned to his seat. "very well then, Naruto, come forward." Following the command Naruto rose from his place and moved directly in front of the dark lord of the Sith. "Though your efforts are fruitless you have indeed proven that your understanding of diplomacy is increasing, something I wish for you to fully understand before my passing."
"I admit that I have much to learn, but I'm starting to pick up on distinct features that occur during debates and through practice with the force, I've begun to discern individual's emotions." Naruto explained to Sidious.
"Good," Sidious replied. "your progression in the varying fields has certainly been showing. For one of your age to develop this far is something of an oddity, but one that will prove most beneficial." Glancing down at the blade he held towards the boy Sidious extended the blade towards his apprentice with the force, returning it to him.
"Thank you master," Naruto thanked as he grabbed his lightsaber and attached it to his belt. "I have been working tirelessly to learn all that I can so that I-"
"So that you can gain the power you so desperately want." Sidious interjected by completing the sentence. "Yes, I'm fully aware of your desire for power." Sidious chuckled as he could sense the desire radiating from the boy, a very dark desire that was entirely ravenous.
"You still have much to learn, which is why I'm glad that you are smart enough not to lie to me, lest you succumb to my anger." Sidious pointed out as he pressed on of the buttons on his chair that sent out a signal. "Thanks to you however, I now have a reason to move against the Chiss." The statement surprised Naruto greatly as he felt the ship's thrusters begin to activate. "The Eclipse wasn't in need of further construction, no, it merely needed maintenance from a previous skirmish that temporarily disabled the superlaser."
Naruto turned to the view seen from Sidious's vantage point and saw that the Eclipse was moving into position that faced Csaplar's position. Sidious then pressed a button on his chair that linked to the main control room. "Commander prepare for firing sequence." Sidious ordered.
Quick to intervene, Naruto spoke up, "Master why would you destroy the capital?! Certainly, that wouldn't be necessary, the Chiss are our allies!"
"My apprentice there is still much for you to learn. To rule the galaxy, one must be ruthless and willing to do whatever it takes to squish what little resistance dares to even consider opposing you." Sidious explained as he got confirmation from the Commander who was relaying information that the superlaser was fully charged.
"Master, we still have Chiss allies in the city, certainly you wouldn't kill them along with the conspirators?" Naruto questioned trying to persuade his master from firing the weapon.
"To truly rule one must be willing to walk over the remains of those loyal to you. After all how many bodies did it take to make the Empires of the past?" Sidious stated before activating the commlink to the bridge. "Fire at will co-" Before Sidious could even finish his sentence Naruto screamed in anger as he lunged at his master with his lightsaber drawn. The result was a sudden and forceful blast of force lightning pushing him away.
Rising from his seat once more to walk over towards Naruto, Sidious used the force to take away the lightsaber once more. "Foolish boy, who was it that picked you up from primitive rock and brought you up by hand?! To dare strike out at your master because of an attachment to those who would oppose us. How weak have you become?!" Sidious moved back to his chair to continue what he had set out to do. "Now watch boy, this is how a Sith should act!" Pressing the button once more Sidious told the Commander to fire, and to Naruto's horror the sound of the superlaser activating made his heart race.
Outside the superlaser was seen charging. Any previous ships that were in the direct path of the laser were long since move out of the way. Down below to any Chiss who would have been looking up at the time would have seen something much like a bright star. With the laser primed the engineers fired the weapon down towards the surface, and for everyone watching they witnessed the destructive capabilities of the superweapon as the surface began to crack and sear. Naruto watched on in horror as after the weapon had ceased firing the only thing left to see was the molten rock emerging and mass devastation across an entire continental mass of Csilla.
"Now the Chiss will think twice before considering something so rash as opposing us." Sidious stated with a smirk. Naruto though just continued to look down at the world below, not saying a word. "Certainly, your not upset over the loss of that old fool Thrawn now are you?"
"How could you?" Naruto question softly, yet also aggressively. Sidious could sense it; his student's anger was rising. It was amusing to him to say the least.
"Have you not been paying attention boy? I have explained my reasoning to you ever so clearly." Sidious countered, becoming annoyed at his apprentice's act. "They were nothing more than pawns anyway, why they weren't even human." A sudden and annoying tick emerged within Naruto's mind as his hatred only grew with each word his master said. Memories flooded into his mind, those of his time on Csilla, which was practically his second home, and of many Chiss he had come to befriend. Most of all his thoughts drifted to times when he was growing up learning from Thrawn.
He gritted his teeth at the memories trying to force the tears from coming, but he failed. His emotions were like a raging storm ready to burst out. Sidious watched as he sensed something sinister coming from his apprentice. Slowly but surely Naruto's distinct whiskers began to darken, and his teeth sharpen. His hair became more savaged as a red aura began to manifest around his body. Sidious watch on with curiosity as saw the scaring from his force lightning disappear quickly, causing his eyes to narrow. Naruto's fingernails grew to sharp points, just as his toenails. The aura became more defined as a tail of energy formed from the energy that surrounded Naruto. The person in question turned to face his master, who was slightly taken aback by the bloodthirsty crimson slitted eyes that starred down at him.
"So, this is the darkness that I sensed festering deep within you, how, terrifying." Sidious chuckled as he watched Naruto begin to become mad with rage.
With a swift motion of his fist Naruto attempted to hit Sidious in the face, however, the dark lord used the force to move Naruto's fist causing it to hit the floor instead. To his own surprise when Naruto's fist collided with the floor it tore through the metal and bended it, sending Sidious up along with his chair into the air, Sidious was promptly sent flying into the air as a result. It took Sidious by surprise, but he quickly used the force to aid in his landing.
For the others they stumbled as the throne room shook from the punch. The soldiers and guards promptly went into offensive as they saw the young master assault their Emperor. The praetorian guards were the first to engage, and despite their efforts they were torn apart. The first one to be in reach of Naruto's grip ended up with their head crushed by Naruto's clawed hand, while another was sent colliding into a wall by the energy tail.
Those attempting to strike Naruto with their staffs found the staffs stopping, and getting stuck into the cloak. Seemingly reacting to them energy arms emerged from those spots grabbing the guards and piercing them with their own weapons before tossing them aside like rag dolls. The remaining group that was tasked with protecting Naruto remained unsure of what they should do as Sidious picked himself off from the floor laughing all at the same time.
"Yes, this is the power that I sensed from you, how terrifying!" Sidious laughed aloud. "Tearing apart both my throne room and guards, what a monster!" Naruto just growled at his master as another tail emerged and as soon as it did Sidious found that Naruto's speed and strength increased as well. Deciding to test the limits of this power Sidious unleashed his force lightning on his apprentice and watched as the boy was sent flying back.
Reacting quickly Naruto reached out with his right hand and the energy around sent forth an energy arm, much like it had done previously against the praetorian guards, grabbing hold of one of the pillars before pulling Naruto up to the spot. Naruto further surprised the group as they watched him seemingly stick to the surface of the pillar albeit for a moment before he dug his clawed hands into it to hold him place. To add further balance, he wrapped one of his tails around the pillar and used the other to tear off another to fling at Sidious.
Seeing the projectile aimed at him, Sidious used the force to stop the object and toss it aside. At this point Naruto's guards decided to intervene and attempted to stop Naruto. Setting their blasters to stun they attempted to paralyze him, however, Naruto moved around the pillar to avoid their fire and jumped to one of the walls, digging into it for support before leaping into the group attempting to deal with them.
Taken back the group attempted to move away, but Naruto began to swipe them away. Commander Vash found himself in front of the enrage Sith in training and was forced to rely on close combat. Attempting to use his grappling hooks to latch on and shock Naruto, he instead found himself being flung before receiving a strong jab to the gut sending him back.
Naruto, distracted from dealing with the Stormtroopers found himself being brought down under immense pressure from Sidious pushing him down onto his knees with the force. "Well then, I think that you've shown me quite enough of your power for one day." Sidious stated as he quickly dropped the smirk off his face as the aura added another tail, strengthening Naruto even more.
To his own surprise Sidious found Naruto slowly rising in place. The hatred in Naruto's eyes became ever more apparent as they locked eye contact. Sidious was generally impressed when he saw more than just hatred, but pure destructive madness. He watched as Naruto was almost back on his feet and was forced to apply more power in subduing Naruto, so much so that the metal where Naruto was being forced into began to get pushed downward. Yet to his surprise Naruto was managing albeit weakly until something happened.
Once more another tail began to emerge, but unlike before it seemed to have done something to Naruto. As the fourth tail fully, emerged Naruto's eyes became entire red to the point distinction between the iris, pupil and sclera was voided. His skin slowly began to peel away, and small blood bubbles began to emerge, floating up and out of the cloak where they began to for a shell of black mist around Naruto. The sudden shift in darkness swept over Sidious, who for the first time in a long time caused his heart to skip a beat as he watched his pupil changed violent into a literal monster.
The power was beyond terrifying as he could sense it, almost as if it was sentient, something separate from Naruto's own. Whatever it was, it was something malevolent and it wanted to kill him. Sidious for the life of him swore he thought the power was laughing at him, as though he wasn't even a challenge.
Unsure of the way he should deal with this Sidious attempted to used something dangerous. Raising his hand Sidious began to ignite the air around Naruto, promptly igniting the spot into a scourge of flames. Watching the spot carefully Sidious concentrated on the one spot, up until he saw Naruto stop advancing in the stage of development before reaching out with the force and through an opening in the cloak touch Naruto's mind. With a single thought of concentration Sidious dispersed the flames and Naruto fell out of his cloak unconscious on the floor with the remaining energy dispersing into nothing.
With a gruff sigh of relief Sidious walked over towards Naruto and inspected the boy, noticing that the wounds were great, mostly through self-infliction. He did notice slowly the wounds were starting to heal, but Naruto was completely incapacitated. Kneeling downward Sidious placed his hand on Naruto's forehead, aiding to the cause.
The group of stormtroopers managed to pick themselves up and noticed that Sidious was inspecting Naruto. Careful when approaching the group consisting of Commander Vash and Naruto's guards made it to Sidious who quickly ordered Naruto's guards to retrieve a medical capsule, which they did immediately, leaving only Sidious and Vash there.
"My Lord, what was that?" Vash asked as he held up his left arm which had been dislocated. Sidious looked up at Vash surprised the old vet was still alive. Seeing this Vash dismissed his injuries in favor of checking on the Emperor and apprentice.
"He has fallen into a catatonic state, however, in time he will return to normal." Sidious stated, as he stopped and looked around the former throne room. "What power." Vash said nothing as he to assess the damage, shocked at just how much had been destroyed. "Such power has never been seen, even amongst the Sith." Sidious began reviewing the whole sequence in his mind while the guards returned with a medical capsule and placed Naruto carefully inside it by Sidious's orders.
Following the group into the medical center of the Eclipse Sidious never stopped reviewing and contemplating what the power was and whether it could be tamed. For three days he pondered and reviewed the whole sequence through hologram recordings, while often taking breaks to manage the Remnant forces. Overall, Sidious was left pondering until a thought popped in his head.
'If this power is not of the force, or even if it is, it might only be known to those of his homeworld.' Sidious thought as he accessed the data obtained from their surveys of Naruto's homeworld. Sidious had never considered much of the native race outside of their unique abilities, mainly due to advancing his Imperial agenda, but now he had reason. 'Should these people have the knowledge I seek, or rather more individuals like Naruto I could create a force that would be feared by all!'
Stopping to consider the idea of returning to Naruto's homeworld though revealed that in doing so he would abandon the projects that were around Csilla, including the projects he had them working on. Before long a thought came to mind, one he didn't particularly favor.
Time had passed before Naruto finally regained consciousness. He was in a bacta tank, something that seemed to be repetitive. The medical droid, who had been monitoring him drained the bacta from the tube and once it was fully drained opened the tube allowing Naruto to exit it. "Careful sir," the droid addressed. "Your body hasn't moved as much as it should have these past few days."
"Days? How long was I unconscious?" Naruto asked the droid.
"For exactly six stellar cycles." The droid answered.
"Six days, well that doesn't beat my time when I got put in after my mission on Massodana that's for sure." Naruto mumbled to himself as he strained himself to stand on his feet. Though the medical droid protested Naruto ignored it, and in a matter of a several seconds he found himself standing upright.
Moving forward was the only problem he faced, as he tried to walk forward Naruto stumbled and nearly fell if it wasn't for the medical droid. At the same time a sudden memory relapse occurred as all the events that had transpired up until after the Eclipse fired its superlaser at Csilla. Naruto visibly shook as he reviewed the events in his head. "Sir, are you alright?" The medical droid asked pulling Naruto back to reality.
"I'm fine, just a relapse is all." He lied. The medical droid helped him down to a seat before going to grab Naruto's cloths. During that time Naruto tempered his anger. 'Why?!' He clenched his hands together as he lowered his head. 'How could he do such a thing?! They were our allies, yet he didn't even care!'
The droid had returned with his clothes, but Naruto hadn't even noticed it. 'My master,' Naruto thought as the room around him slowly begin to shake, while the lights flickered on and off. 'You have done something so unforgivable!' The medical droid began to contort and bend, much like the rest of the room. Equipment shattered, and furniture split as Naruto's rage festered. Tears slowly began to escape his crimson eyes as tears resembling claw marks formed along the bent walls. 'To break a promise is the ultimate betrayal, but failing to keep a promise is the ultimate sin.'
It was some time before Naruto emerged the destroyed medical center with his black cloak. No one was in the hallways around him, but if they were they would have sensed the malice coming from the boy. All along the side walls adjoining the hallway claw marks formed following Naruto as he walked aimlessly within the ship, before stopping before the very man his hatred was stemming from.
The two locked eyes, crimson met sulfuric yellow. His master grinned at the darkness that was manifesting, and in turn Naruto glared back all his hatred. Naruto then turned to leave the area with his master continuing to watch with amusement.
Naruto continued his path towards an observation deck where he was able to see Csilla. The damage was still clearly visible even after nearly a week had gone by. The roaring orange screamed with life still as Naruto saw that the once frozen planet was not becoming a molten rock. Naruto directed his hand to a pocket inside his cloak where he pulled out a medallion with a Cheunh inscription engraved onto it. Look out into the dark sky, seek prosperity for the people, and never trust the questionable. Grasping the item in his hand firmly Naruto starred onwards at his greatest failure. All the while ignoring the eyes that watched him from the shadows.
Watching on with gleeful eyes, Sidious withheld a cackle that was coming about. He slowly began to leave the area to return to his other affairs leaving Naruto to drown in his hate. 'Such darkness, yes, this boy will indeed do.' Sidious thought to himself. 'Let this be used to fuel you boy, for one day all that power of yours will be mine.'
Unaware to Sidious Naruto turned to watch the man leave. 'Don't think I'll give my body away so easily old fool!' Naruto mentally swore. 'I'll become far stronger than you, and when that time comes you will be the one to know true fear.'
Turning back to the window, Naruto returned the medallion to his inner pocket, while he took his lightsaber and began disassembling it with the force. Doing so revealed a red kyber crystal that Naruto cracked long ago along with another object. A small data drive that was kept hidden within the hilt. With the data drive now out of the lightsaber, another kyber crystal emerge from Naruto cloak that was concealed in a hidden pocket. It glowed a vibrant orange at first, but then it mixed to match that of a crimson-orange color. Removing the red kyber crystal from the rest of the parts, Naruto began reconfiguring his lightsaber replacing the red crystal with the hidden one. Once he had completed the task Naruto took hold of the handle and ignited his lightsaber revealing the mixed colored blade.
'Don't think for a second old man that I've revealed everything there is about me yet.' Naruto mentally thought as he viewed his blade's color and that of the planet's surface. Deactivating his blade, Naruto placed the hilt back onto his belt before looking at the data drive that was concealed in the hilt. 'Project: Whirlwind will be your legacy Thrawn-sensei, I'll see to it myself.'
Looking over the bridge of the Cyclone, Naruto, along with his guards and Captain Talion were present before the hologram of Sidious. "My apprentice, I'm tasking you, along with the rest of the crew of the Cyclone to head over towards you homeworld and establish an Imperial presence on the planet." Sidious informed the group. Some looked over towards Naruto, who remained silent for much of the briefing already. "I know you haven't been back to your homeworld in nine years, but now is the time for you to start completing your understanding of the Dark Side."
This caused Naruto to raise a brow as he didn't follow. "Master, are you saying that I would gain a better understanding of the Dark Side on my homeworld than with you?" Naruto asked receiving only a grin.
"I have foreseen it, you will gain a far greater understanding and in turn your power will become far greater than even my own." Sidious stated. Naruto almost didn't want to buy it, but something in him did long for him to return to his home, whether it would assist him or not would be decided once he was there.
"Very well master, I will spread the Imperial banners and further my understanding." Naruto announced.
"Good, you will not be receiving any assistance from the fleet Naruto, this task I've created for you will be the ultimate test of all your skills you've obtained over the years, so don't disappoint me." Sidious warned before disconnecting communication between them. Turning towards Naruto, Captain Talion noticed that Naruto was processing the information rather intently.
"Young master, we are ready to depart whenever you're ready." She informed, pulling Naruto out of his thoughts.
"Very well then Captain, let's be off then." Naruto stated as he moved to the front of the bridge. "Its been a homecoming nine years in the making and I'm sure that it'll be as dreadful as I think it'll be." With a quick command on Captain Talion's part, the crew of the Cyclone quickly went to work as Naruto watched the ship begin departing away from the fleet. Before long the ship was quickly on its way out of the Imperial occupied Chiss territory and towards Naruto's homeworld.
Alright there we go chapter two of "The Last Apprentice", and to be honest I'm glad that I'm finally posting this chapter. I had originally hoped to have this chapter published sometime in November, but scheduling issues occurred which prevented me, but I'm just glad I managed to finish it. This chapter isn't if the first one, I know, but I was looking more over whether the chapter should be lengthy or just enough to get my point across. I'll let you the readers decide on whether this chapter achieved that or not, but let's get down to it.
First off, I took into consideration some aspects in terms of story development everyone has given to me in this chapter, mainly the dialogue aspect. Second, I would like to inform everyone that I'm planning to change the history of the Shinobi world, if you picked up on a hidden hint in the first two chapters you could see what I mean.
The reason I'm bringing this up is because I wish for you guys to brainstorm and help me create a new history for the shinobi world involving the force! Now chakra is still the same, but I plan on having it be a unique aspect of Naruto's homeworld, that being that it is a unique aspect of the force. With that in mind, let your mind go wild! I will review suggestions for this and will pick those that fall along the lines of the general story path I've set for this. I will also credit those whose ideas I add to this story, so don't worry about that.
Now, I'm probably going to guess that some of you are wondering what happened during the nine years Naruto was away from his homeworld, and why did Sidious return to Csilla. I do plan on visiting those years, so don't worry about that, but know that there is history that occurred during that time.
Also, the decision making in this chapter was a rather thought-provoking part of development of this chapter. I will say that when I first started this chapter it was originally setup to send Naruto back to his homeworld where he'll begin to further his understanding of his abilities, his past and who he really is. This chapter still does that, but after some serious consideration I opted from three previous concepts of what would transpire in this, including Sidious's reasoning for sending Naruto back to his homeworld at an age where his Sith abilities weren't fully mastered.
For those keeping a close eye to detail you might have noticed that there were some EU aspects in this chapter, mainly around Sidious. Like I stated in the first chapter I am pulling from the EU and Disney Cannon, but I'm cherry picking parts that are necessary for the story.
Time for this part of the chapter, yes, I had Naruto use Kurama's chakra, but only in anger and then his hatred (Que a Yoda quote here perhaps?). Naruto had bonds with quite a few Chiss on the planet, which like the nine years in between Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, and seeing them be vaporized by his master with the Eclipse had certainly set him off. I did this so that Naruto has a reason to truly hate his master, and to use it as a motivation for revenge.
Please make sure if you review that you don't flame, I will ignore you completely. Let me know how I did in terms of writing (Primarily dialogue please) and if you're interested in suggesting an idea you can just leave it in the review section along with a question you might have, or you can PM and I will try and get back to you as soon as possible. NT: There are two people on this account I'm Apollo, please be specific with whom your addressing.
Next chapter onwards we will be on Naruto's homeworld so look forward to that. There is always a chance that Naruto will leave the planet so keep that in mind, and note that Naruto will recruit people into the Imperial forces. The question is though which forces will they be joining?
Alright that's enough from me for now I must get back to college work. I have a fifteen-page paper that I'm going to start working on here shortly and about that many books to read over the course of this semester isn't college great! I don't how long it'll be before Chapter 3 will be finished but I will try and get it out as soon as possible. With that end note, thank you for giving my story a read regardless if you liked it or not, and have a great day!