Interior: Galen's flagship, the Starhawk, briefing room.
As her hologram appeared to Starkiller, Depa informed, "We have another mission for you, if you think it's important enough for your attention."
He neutrally replied, "I'll let the Force decide for me. What's the mission?"
"Rendezvous with Ahsoka and go to Christophsis to reinforce the 212th and 501st who we've lost contact with."
"You mean rescue Anakin, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon, and let the former two know they have new Padawans?"
"Ahsoka's also carrying an urgent message for them."
"Acknowledged, Starkiller, out." said the Mando Padawan as he heard a whisper in the Force urging him to go.
Later.
Interior: Starhawk, bridge.
As she was escorted by an agile human female with tanned skin and dark hair, in a black special forces uniform with distinct red markings, Ahsoka looked around with interest, "This ship is amazing, Commander Versio,"
"You can call me Iden, Ahsoka." replied Iden Versio.
Ahsoka turned to a human male with fair skin, brown eyes and short brown hair, "What's your name?"
"Lieutenant Carth Onasi,"
Ahsoka innocently asked, "Is Lieutenant your first name?"
"It's my rank." chuckled an amused Carth.
"Are you named after the war hero?"
"Yeah… I'm proud of it, but that's a lot to live up to."
"I'm gonna have a lot to live up to as well, as Anakin, the Hero with no Fear, Skywalker's Padawan."
"Then how about we watch out for each other?"
"Sounds like a plan."
Starkiller mentioned, "When we come out of hyperspace, it'll be a space battle.
We'll need to destroy a blockade over Christophsis before reinforcing the 501st and 212th on the surface."
"Do I get to join in the blockade break?" asked Ahsoka.
"Some other time, since you've got a message to deliver."
"Right."
Later.
Interior: Christophsis, modified AIAT/I: Jaster's Legacy MKII.
A clone pilot said, "Padawan Ahsoka, prepare for landing."
"Copy that, Flyboy," said Ahsoka.
Starkiller asked, in a serious tone, "This isn't a game, it's a war.
Are you sure you're up for this?"
"I guess we'll find out, and it's a good thing you literally forced me to put extra time into my hand-eye coordination, deflection and precision.
I have a feeling I'll be thanking you for it when we're alone."
Iden asked, "First time on the battlefield, Ahsoka?"
"Yeah, and I'm honestly not looking forward to it." admitted Ahsoka, "I'm actually scared."
"Everyone is the first time around.
But you're braver than most, to admit it."
"Watch Star's back for me.
I'll want him back in one piece when we're done here."
"That's why I'm here, someone's gotta keep him out of trouble."
Starkiller mentioned, "Ahsoka, it's a good idea to invest in some armour.
It puts the troops at ease when their leaders wear at least some protection.
It's a severe blow to their morale when their leaders get hurt or killed."
"Fair enough, and I'll draw up some possible designs for mine."
Exterior: Christophsis, city, mid morning.
As the ship landed, Ahsoka and Galen/Starkiller disembarked alongside HK-55, HK-47, and a platoon of soldiers in specialised and customized armour to suit their respective skill sets and squads.
Some other transports deployed a battalion of troopers in dark grey modified phase 1 armour.
Wrecker announced, "The Cavalry has arrived!"
Visibly completely confused, Anakin asked, "And who're you supposed to be?"
Ahsoka self introduced, "I'm Ahsoka," then pointed to her companions, "This is General Starkiller, Commander Versio, Captain Fordo, the 99th Rogue legion, and the 107th Partisan battalion."
Galen added, "Master Yoda needs the three of you back at the temple. There's an emergency."
Qui-Gon nodded, "We're presently in a bit of an emergency, ourselves."
Obi-Wan added, "Yes, our comms have been a bit unreliable, but we've been calling for help."
Starkiller replied, "That's why we're here. Ni figured you'd be in trouble, as always."
HK-55 said, "Statement: we were sent to deliver the message, as Master Yoda hadn't heard from you."
Anakin sighed and turned around, "Oh, great. They don't even know we're in trouble."
Qui-Gon noted, "Evidence to the contrary stands before us, Ani."
Starkiller informed, "General Skywalker, my fleet completely destroyed the blockade when we arrived.
We just have to finish down here."
"Thanks."
Kenobi addressed the Padawans, "I believe it's time for a proper introduction."
Ahsoka gladly self-introduced, "I'm one of the new Padawan learners. I'm Ahsoka Tano."
The ginger smiled, "I am Obi-Wan Kenobi, your new Master."
Holding back a smirk, Qui-Gon and Starkiller thought, "3-2-1."
Ahsoka corrected, "I'm at your service, Master Kenobi…
But I'm afraid I've actually been assigned to Master Skywalker." and indicated to a shocked Anakin whose facial expression was priceless.
Confused, Anakin gestured with his hands, "Wait, what? Hang on," then pointed to Obi-Wan, "he's the one who requested the Padawan."
"Master Yoda was very specific. I'm assigned to Anakin Skywalker, and he's to supervise my Jedi training." explained Ahsoka.
Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan looked at the bewildered Anakin, "But that doesn't make any sense."
One of the ARC troopers chuckled, "Have fun training the hyperactive shiny, Jetii."
"We'd best complete the task at hand, Ani.
It won't take long for the droids to find a way past our cannons," interjected Jinn.
"I'll check on Rex in the lookout post." stated Anakin as he was about to leave.
"You'd better take Ahsoka with you," stated Obi-Wan.
"Okay, okay," conceded Anakin who smiled at adorable Ahsoka, "C'mon, time to meet the team."
"Forgetting someone, Ani?" asked Starkiller.
Anakin froze and turned around, "Is that you, Galen?"
"How many other Jetii are Mando'ade?"
Obi-Wan chuckled, "Well, this is quite a little reunion."
"Yes, it is, and your request was approved." agreed Starkiller.
"Oh, no… you're my new Padawan, aren't you?" asked Obi-Wan, pretending to be alarmed.
"Luminara's gonna love this." answered Starkiller, "Also, I'm not calling you, or anyone else, Master."
Obi-Wan nodded understandingly, "Fair enough."
Starkiller turned to Iden, "Commander, reinforce the 212th and 501st's lines of defense and send a recon unit to scout out more strategic vantage points we can make use of as well as some extra insight into what we're up against.
You can coordinate with Marshal Commander Cody."
"Right away, General." acknowledged Versio.
Turning to Fordo, Starkiller added, "Captain, I know you prefer a straightforward tactic, so when the enemy makes its move, we'll have troops in vantage points providing cover while we take the fight to the enemy directly.
Heavy repeaters in the north and south towers on levels 2 and 3, with sharpshooters on levels 5, 12, 15, and the rooftops, just like we planned."
"Yes, General Starkiller."
Exterior: Christophsis, outpost.
The trio of young Jedi went to the outpost and found Rex.
Anakin asked, "What's the status, Rex?"
"Quiet for now, sir. They're gearing up for another assault," replied Rex who asked, "Starkiller, good to see you, ori'vod.
And does this mean the 99th is here too?"
"Along with the 107th." answered Starkiller, "I'm also Obi-Wan's new Padawan."
As he turned to Ahsoka, Rex politely asked, "And what's your name, lil 'un?"
Ahsoka proudly answered, "Ahsoka Tano, I'm Master Skywalker's Padawan."
"Ah, so you're Ahsoka. Galen told me about you.
I'm Rex, Captain of the 501st." greeted Rex before almost falling backwards from the tackle-like hug the energetic Togruta gave him.
"Nice to meet you, Cap Rexster." returned Tano who gave the friendliest smile the Captain had ever seen along with the warmest hug.
"Likewise, lil 'un." gladly said Rex who smiled at Anakin, "Sir, your Padawan's adorable."
Anakin replied, "Sorry to break your heart, Rex, but there's been a mix-up, and she isn't with me."
In response, Ahsoka cheekily quipped, "You're stuck with me, Skyguy." grinned, and pointed her finger at Anakin, making everyone within earshot laugh.
"What'd you just call me?" asked Anakin, half amused but half annoyed, "Don't get snippy with me, and I'm not even sure you're old enough to be a Padawan."
"Oh, I'm not old enough? You were 9 when you became one."
"Touché. And actions speak louder than words.
So if you're ready to be a Padawan, you can show me, Snips." said Anakin who gestured to his right-hand man, "Now, Captain Rex is gonna show you around, ok?"
"Okay."
Rex gestured, "Right, this way, ori'vod, Ahsoka."
Tano smiled, "Lead the way, Rexster."
Soon after.
Exterior: Christophsis, city, day.
"Have you thought about moving that line back, Captain?" asked Ahsoka, "They'll have better cover that way," as they passed a strategic setup.
Agreeing, Rex nodded, "Good call." and gestured to some nearby troops who got to work.
"So, if you're a Captain, and we're Jedi, does that mean we outrank you?" asked Ahsoka, curious, "or do the Jedi go through the same ranking system and chain of command as the troops in the army?"
"In my book: experience outranks everything."
"Well, then I guess I better start getting some."
"I'll be happy to help with that." replied Rex before an energy field activated.
"What's that?" asked Ahsoka.
"An expanding energy shield, and it's gonna make things damn near impossible." answered Rex, "If you wanted experience, Ahsoka, you're about to get plenty."
Shortly thereafter.
Exterior: Christophsis, city, command post.
While going over a few details with the Jedi, Rex said, "Easier said than done, Ahsoka."
"Well, I, for one, agree with her." chimed in Anakin, "Someone has to destroy the shield generator, that's the key."
Fordo briefed, "General Skywalker, you and Padawan Ahsoka will infiltrate enemy lines," and pointed to a point on the map, "and take out the shield generator here," then pointed to another section of the map, "while the rest of us engage the enemy who will be coming from here."
"Can do, Cap." agreed Ahsoka.
Anakin looked at her, "I'll decide what we do," then went over a few details.
As she started walking away, Ahsoka turned back, "C'mon, Skyguy."
Walking next to her, Anakin said, "If we survive this, we're gonna have a talk, Snips."
"Sure thing, Skyguy."
As he watched the two walking away, Rex asked, "They make quite a pair, don't they?"
Fordo nodded, "They'll do their job well, let's make sure we do the same."
Obi-Wan asked his Padawan, "I trust you have a brilliant plan to keep the enemy occupied?"
Starkiller drew a westar-34 and a spinning saberstaff, "Grab some popcorn, or put on your helmet, Kenobi," then said to his troops, "Plan 82: shockwave," before he and his commandos sprung into action, decimating the incoming enemy forces.
"Woah!" exclaimed Waxer.
As his eyes widened behind his helmet, Boil commented, "I honestly never thought I'd feel sorry for the clankers." and Cody nodded in agreement.
Amazed, Hardcase said, "Oh, I like their style!"
"Quite a show indeed," said Obi-Wan, who'd donned an ARC trooper helmet, as he deflected blaster bolts, "Now I wish we'd brought popcorn, but not buttered so Luminara doesn't worry about my cholesterol."
Qui-Gon was amazed by Starkiller, "Through him, I see the raw power of the Force unleashed… I feel as if I'm looking into the heart of the Force."
Momentarily thereafter.
As he carved up several tanks, and found Loathsome, Starkiller greeted, "Warm Loathsome. We haven't met yet, I'm General Starkiller."
With a lightsaber pointed at him as well as the guns of several ARC troopers, General Loathsome laid down his weapon, pressed a button calling off his droids, and said, "By Yavin code, I invoke the right of parley to discuss cease of hostilities with General Kenobi."
"Very well."
Shortly thereafter.
Exterior: Christophsis, Republic command post.
Bringing his Loathsome with him, Starkiller introduced, "Generals Jinn, Kenobi and Skywalker, meet General Warm Loathsome of the CIS.
He's invoked the right of Parley, the ceasefire to discuss terms."
Obi-Wan approached and greeted, "General, it is an honor to meet you face to face.
You're a legend throughout the inner core."
"Thank you, and the honour's all mine, General Kenobi."
"Come, let us discuss the terms of your surrender." insisted Obi-Wan who inquired, "Would you like some refreshments?
I hear Alderaanian Tea is quite calming."
"I would be obliged."
As Obi-Wan started escorting the CIS General to the door, Anakin rubbed his eyes and staggered for a moment before running up, igniting his blade, leaping in the air, and swinging towards Loathsome, "For the Chancellor!"
Force pulling his friend away, only to be attacked instead, Starkiller ignited his black blade and blocked several aggressive slashes and strikes from Anakin, initiating a bladelock, pushing him back and casting electric judgement before it could be blocked.
As the lightning ceased, Anakin blinked, rubbed his eyes, and saw the looks he was getting, "Huh? What the hell just happened?"
Concerned for her new master as she knelt by his side, Ahsoka asked, "Skyguy, are you alright?"
As his vision came into focus, Anakin replied, "I- I think so, just… just give me a minute, Snips."
Kix immediately rushed to his General's side, "Sir, I'm taking you to the med-bay, this is non-negotiable." before a gunship landed transporting Yoda, "you're not saved by the bell."
"Dank farrik."
As he approached, Yoda said to Starkiller, "Sensing your guilt about Taris, I am. Your fault, it was not."
Starkiller folded his arms, "I know that, but Taris and all traces of it and its essence are dead in the Force." causing everyone to freeze in shock.
"Know how, do you?"
"I sensed the shadow of an ancient horror when the battle was over.
I saw something watching me… something that consumed the world of Taris and all life on it except for me.
A darkness carrying the face of death."
Anakin placed a hand on Starkiller's shoulder, "I'm sorry."
In a dead serious tone, Starkiller replied, "No, sorry's what the Sith will be when I confront them.
Also, when I recommended Ahsoka for Padawanship: throwing her onto the front lines where she could be killed or traumatized by the horrors of war wasn't what I had in mind."
Ahsoka agreed, "He's right about that.
I love meeting new people, but I don't want to kill anyone."
Skywalker added, "While I'm warming up to Ahsoka, one of us could've lost the other on the first day.
I couldn't put her through that, or forgive myself for either of those outcomes."
Kix mentioned to Yoda, "Skywalker tried to kill Loathsome, who's under the protection of Parley, for the Chancellor.
Although he had a headache, and was a little disoriented.
He didn't seem to know what he'd done or what he was doing.
He may need a break from the battlefield to clear his head."
Yoda looked at Anakin, concerned about him.
Skywalker mentioned, "That didn't even make sense since I don't like the Chancellor."
Starkiller bluntly said, "That further validates my distrust of creepy old Palpatine who shouldn't be anywhere near Anakin.
And I still believe he's a Sith Lord."
HK-55 assessed, "Advisement: keep meatbag Palpatine very far away from Master Anakin.
Conclusion based on factual data: the former has a sinister agenda.
Political observation: the Republic's losing its beloved democracy with each constitutional change made by meatbag Palpatine's administration,"
Qui-Gon nodded, "Agreed."
HK-47 chimed in, "Hopeful question: Master Rev-
Correction: I mean Master Starkiller.
Question: can I try assassinating meatbag Palpatine, to out him as a Sith?
Assumption: the meatbag would use the Force, in a subtle or discreet way, or use a lightsaber to defend himself if he thinks he'll get away with it.
Or have an abrupt increase in security implying he senses it.
Precaution: I shall ensure meatbag Anakin has a distraction keeping him from interfering."
"A distraction, you say, HK-47?" asked Yoda, amused.
"Elaboration: I will make sure he's conveniently assigned as meatbag Senator Amidala's bodyguard for an extended period of time, off-world, yet again.
Statement of the obvious: he would intervene if he believes she is the assassin's target, like she is every time she opposes a new bill select meatbags want passed in the Senate.
Sarcasm: I totally won't send the meatbags "Anakin," and "Padme," somewhere private, romantic, and far, far away.
Mischievous question: wouldn't that be suspicious?"
The present company barely hid their amusement.
Obi-Wan was enjoying the assassin droid's remarks too much to chime in.
"Innocent question: shall I arrange that now?" asked HK-47, "Not so innocent question: will you require protection?
Or can you keep your tiny meatbags and little Ani in your pants?" causing some of the present company to erupt into laughter.
Anakin clenched his fist which began shaking, "You're getting on my nerves."
"Recitation: there is no emotion, there is peace."
Starkiller sighed, "That's enough, HK-47."
"Dejected protest: but Master, I was having fun teasing the meatbag." complained the Assassin droid.
"What'd I tell you about the Jetii code?"
"Question and answer: that it's vague, self-contradicting hypocrisy?"
With raised eyebrows, the present Jedi looked at Starkiller who asked, "Besides that?"
"Answer: they're more like guidelines than actual rules."
Qui-Gon, Ahsoka and Anakin chimed in, "He's not wrong."
Later.
Interior: Starhawk, hangar.
As Ahsoka and Galen accurately relayed some details in story form for the troops, they laughed at some parts.
Tano held out a hologram, "Since you missed it, here's the look on Skyguy's face when he found out he had a Padawan." causing everyone to laugh.
As the hologram faded, Anakin folded his arms, "What's going on, Snips?"
"Just keeping the boys inspired, Skyguy." answered Ahsoka.
Turning to Marek, Anakin said, "I'm glad to see you again, Galen.
I'm sorry I didn't take a minute to properly say it earlier,"
"The middle of a warzone wasn't the place for touching reunions anyway," shrugged Galen who teasingly asked, "So, how's Padmè? Is she your wife yet?"
As her eyes widened, Ahsoka asked, "Wait, what?"
"The first thing nine year old Ani told fourteen year old Queen Amidala was he'll marry her someday, after asking if she's an Angel." explained Galen.
Ahsoka beamed adoringly, "Awww, that's so cute. I ship it.
If you two hook up, I swear I won't tell." although she already knew about their relationship.
Anakin smiled, "Thanks, Snips," then gestured to Marek, "And this guy is usually my wingman."
Galen said, "Speaking of teamwork: you two will be an amazing team if you support, look out for, trust and respect each other as equals." then turned to Ahsoka, "And you remember you don't have to prove anything to anyone.
Trust yourself and trust your instincts.
You can do anything you set your mind to. And your potential has no limits."
In response, Ahsoka kissed Galen on the lips.
Surprised, Anakin stammered, "Oh, I didn't realise you were together."
Ahsoka replied, "Get used to it, Skyguy."
Ani sighed, "I guess it won't exactly be like old times."
"No, it won't because our aliit has an amazing, invaluable, irreplaceable treasure," replied Galen who gently wrapped an arm around the Togruta's waist as he proudly announced, "and her name is Ahsoka Tano." making her blush.
With a small smile, Anakin asked, "Hey… how about we do some sparring? Come on, 'Starkiller,' show me what you've got."
"I'll try not to embarrass you in front of your Padawan, for the second time today," teased Galen.
"Wait… were you behind my getting a Padawan?"
"It was originally Padme's idea," replied Marek, "Qui-Gon, Yoda and I thought it'd be good for you, and help you keep yourself together if you have someone else watching your back."
Skywalker admitted, "Thank you, but I don't know if I'm ready for an apprentice.
It's not that I don't like Ahsoka, she's great, and I'm already growing family level fond of her.
It's just that I've only recently been knighted, so I don't feel qualified."
Encouragingly, Ahsoka pointed out, "Getting a Padawan this soon after being knighted is literally people telling you they believe in you, they trust you, and that you're ready."
"Good point, my Padawan," said Anakin.
"This is where the fun begins, Master Skyguy."
"You don't have to call me your Master if you don't want to."
Tano innocently asked, "Do people call the two of you StarSky or SkyStar when you team up?"
"No idea."
Shortly thereafter.
Interior: Starhawk, training room.
Anakin and Galen had a lightsaber duel rivaling the intensity of battles between Goku and Vegeta or Naruto and Sasuke.
When they finished, the victorious Mandalorian turned off his black blade, and helped Anakin to his feet.
As he watched Galen and Ahsoka sparring, Anakin was taken aback by how persistent they were and how quickly they were learning the forms with expert skill.
As the Padawans finished their match, Anakin asked, "Where did you both learn to fight like that?"
"Proxy."
Between strikes whilst sparring with his Padawan, Anakin mentioned, "Impressive, most impressive. You should try jar'kai."
Tano parried a series of strikes, "Thanks, Skyguy. Starguy suggested that too."
"Great minds think alike, Snips."
As they paused, Skyguy turned to Starguy, "Why didn't you kill Dooku, on Geonosis? I'm not judging, I'm just curious."
"Dooku may be the only one keeping freaks like Grievous from reenacting the sacking of Coruscant, with him starring as Darth Malgus.
And I spared him in hopes of avoiding this war." answered the Mandalorian.
"That actually makes a lot of sense."
"Also, he wanted me to kill him to avenge ner godfather. And revenge isn't the Jetii way."
Later.
Interior: Teth, B'omarr monk monastery.
Sensing a presence as he entered alongside SkySnips, Rex and some troopers, Starkiller advised, "Stay sharp, there's someone nearby." before they were greeted by a droid.
Caretaker droid cautioned, "I must warn you, it's very dangerous," and turned to Ahsoka, "Not a place for a slave," immediately pissing off all 3 Jedi before Starkiller shot it in the faceplate.
Hiding her irritation at the droid's remark, Ahsoka said, "Let's find the Hutt." which her fellow Jedi nodded in agreement to.
Nonchalantly dodging a blaster bolt, Starkiller took off his helmet and looked up at a sniper, "Nice to see you too, Fennec."
Gracefully leaping down from her vantage point and landing on her feet with the clones aiming their blasters at her, Fennec took off her helmet, and asked, "So Jabba asked you and the Jedi to help rescue his son, too, handsome?"
"More or less."
"Could you be a dear and hand over the Huttlet? I was here first, so the quarry is mine."
Ahsoka interjected, "Looks like you're empty handed, mercenary."
Shand turned to Tano, "Hello, sweetie. I'm Fennec Shand, an old friend of Kane's, and what's your name, little Jedi?"
"Padawan Ahsoka Tano," self-introduced the Togruta who suggested, "If we're on the same assignment, why don't we team up?"
Shand smiled, "I'm listening, make your proposal."
Practicing her diplomacy skills, Ahsoka negotiated, "If you help us return Jabba's son to him alive: we'll let you keep the bounty for yourself, and clear your own bounty."
"Well, that sounds like a good plan, especially since I'm standing next to a platoon of Republic soldiers, two Jedi, and one of the most dangerous men in the galaxy."
Anakin presumptuously chuckled, "I wouldn't say I'm-"
"I wasn't talking about you, Skywalker."
Interior: Teth, monastery, dungeon.
While passing several cells in the dungeons, they noticed multiple B1 battle droids started following them before Tano took them out.
Anakin stabbed a battle droid, from behind him, and said, "Impressive, and you remembered to destroy their weapons first, but you missed one."
Ahsoka countered, "I saved that one for you."
"Thanks, Snips."
As he opened a door, Starkiller said, "Found the kid… this'll make our job a lot easier."
Ahsoka looked at the Huttlet, "Aw… he's just a baby. Aww, he's so cute."
Exterior: Teth, B'omarr monk monastery.
Anakin asked Ahsoka, "How's your little friend? Still cute?"
"He's reminding me of you, more and more." she teased while holding up the Huttlet, "See? You're two of a kind."
"Oh? So you think I'm cute?" teasingly asked Skywalker, making her blush, "don't worry, Snips, you're pretty cute too."
"Shut up."
Noticing the Huttlet didn't look so good, Shand said, "We've got another problem: the kid's sick."
Starkiller said, "On it," and gently placed a hand on Rotta's forehead.
Within moments, the Huttlet's health was restored.
Having not seen Force healing before, Fennec asked, "What'd you do?"
"Healed him with the Force." answered Starkiller, "it's hard to explain."
"Great, that's one problem solved." sighed Ahsoka.
"Speaking of problems: what do we do about them?" asked Rex as he pointed to the large enemy force approaching.
Starkiller ordered, "SkySnips, you and Shand find a ship and go. We've got this."
As they took their positions, Starkiller, Rex, a squad of the 501st, and the Bad Batch got to work while Fennec, SkySnips and Rotta found an old freighter called the Twilight.
Shortly thereafter.
Exterior: Teth, Hutt gravesite.
As he opened a stone grave revealing a dead Hutt holding a holodiary, Starkiller took it and resealed the grave, then turned to Tech, "Back this holo-diary up, and take it in for analysis."
"Gladly."
"According to one of my agents, it holds damaging evidence against the Hutt Council, so the Jetii Council will want to see it first."
"Why not the Senate or the Courts? That is more their area."
"Because they're both filled with corruption, and the Hutts have friends in high places on their payroll. Friends who can make evidence disappear."
"Good point." agreed Tech who completely backed up and encrypted the data.
Sensing an echo through the Force, Starkiller ordered, "Prepare for immediate return to Coruscant."
Shortly thereafter.
Interior: Coruscant, Ziro's palace.
As the door opened to reveal Ziro the Hutt with his guards holding Padme hostage, Starkiller, the HKs, and Inferno Squad charged in and eliminated Ziro's guards.
Panicking as he was surrounded, Ziro asked, "W- I- what? Who in the?"
Freeing Amidala from some binders, Starkiller asked, "You ok, milady?"
"When I asked Threepio to get help, I wasn't expecting special forces." mused Padme.
"He didn't call us, I sensed you were in trouble." replied the Mando Jedi before 3P0 arrived with Commander Fox and the Shocktroopers.
Taking off his helmet, Galen asked, "Any orders, Padme? Or shall we do what we do?"
"Would you actually follow a Senator's orders, you Rebel scum?" joked Padme.
"The will of the Force supersedes the will of politicians, but sometimes they have the same goal in the long run."
Around the same time.
Exterior: Tatooine, Dune sea, evening.
As 2 battalions of Magna Guards ambushed her, Shand and Rotta on the way to Jabba's palace, Ahsoka, tired from already single-handedly scrapping 2 dozen of the bastards, while Shand had taken out a dozen herself, sighed, "Being a Padawan's harder than I thought,"
"Well, I think you're doing incredible for your first day," praised the bounty huntress.
"Thanks," appreciated Tano, then an army of Tusken Raiders appeared.
Igniting ruby-red blades, Sharad and A'sharad Hett said, "Go, Padawan Tano. We'll handle this."
Not needing to be told twice, Ahsoka and Fennec got moving, with R2 in tow.
Shortly thereafter.
Interior: Tatooine, Jabba's Palace, audience chamber.
As Anakin, Fennec and Ahsoka arrived and reunited Rotta with Jabba, a droid translated, "You are to be executed, immediately."
"What!?" asked Ani and Snips, then their weapons were at the ready.
"Does this always happen to you?" Ahsoka asked her master.
"Everywhere I go." replied Anakin before a hologram of Padme and Starkiller appeared.
After Padme saved their skins, Anakin turned to Snips, "How'd you and Shand get here, anyway? Past Dooku's army of droids?"
"Let's just say I never thought I'd be glad to see Tusken Raiders."
Horrified, Anakin asked, "Wait! What?"
"Their leaders were Jedi." explained Ahsoka.
"Fantastic…" grunted Skywalker.
"Did something happen between you and them?" asked a concerned Ahsoka.
"I don't want to talk about it." replied Anakin whose face was saddened.
"I'm not gonna make you, but I'm here for you if you ever need to talk," softly assured Ahsoka whilst comfortingly hugging him.
"Thank you and likewise, Ahsoka," appreciated Anakin, "there's someone very special that I want to introduce you to before we go back to the temple."
Tano curiously asked, "Who?"
"My mother, but it's our little secret, ok?"
"Okay, Skyguy. And you've already met my mother."
"Who's your mother?"
"Shaak Ti."
Later.
Exterior: Coruscant, Jedi Temple, courtyard, evening.
Obi-Wan, Qui-Gon Ahsoka and Galen ran into Krell.
"Why the hell did you deny my unit's evac, on Taris?" asked a furious Galen.
Krell laughed, "Because I can. Now I'll enjoy reuniting you with the clones I've personally killed and manipulated into killing each other as well as civilians."
"You are under arrest, hut'uunla aruetii."
With visible murderous intent in his eyes, Krell ignited his sabers, revealing red blades, "For my Emperor!" and ferociously attacked Galen who parried several strikes, and cut his sabers in their crystal chambers before slashing across the brute's chest.
As Krell dropped dead, the Jedi felt a small lightness in the Force.
Ahsoka scoffed, "He's another Dark Jedi? Why am I not surprised?"
Obi-Wan sighed, "Regardless: the Council's going to be annoyed with Galen for this."
Tano pointed out, "Not as annoyed as they'll be with Palpatine after what went down with that Seppie officer."
"Indeed." agreed Kenobi.
Marek stated, "I relieved a war criminal of duty, and I used lethal force in self-defence."
"My statement still stands." firmly said Kenobi.
"And Kota passes out drunk." shrugged Marek, earning some chuckles.
As he appeared with a squad of the boys in red, Fox asked, "What's going on here?"
Ahsoka explained, "General jerk confessed to several war crimes, and high treason, before trying to murder Galen who killed him in self-defence whilst attempting to arrest him."
"I'll need you all to come down to the precinct to file a report."
Giving a friendly smile, Ahsoka stood at attention with a respectful salute but a playful demeanor, "Sir, yes, sir!"
With a small smile behind his helmet, Fox couldn't help chuckling, "At ease, shiny."
Relaxing, Tano grinned, "Yay, I got you to smile!
That's a top priority mission accomplished." before tightly hugging Fox.
"What is happening right now?" asked Fox, confused.
"I'm just giving you a big ol' hug, Foxy." answered Tano, making some of the present company snicker.
Somewhat cautiously, Fox gently hugged her back.
A few hours later.
Interior: Coruscant, Jedi temple, Galen, Maris and Ahsoka's dorm.
Having got back from filing their reports, Ahsoka and Galen gazed into each other's eyes, and hugged warmly before stepping back as Maris's hologram projected.
"Hey, Maris." greeted Galen and Ahsoka.
"Hey, you two," returned Maris, all the way from Kamino.
Tano smiled, "How's your apprenticeship with Shaak Ti going?"
"Great. How was your first mission with Master Skywalker?"
Ahsoka projected a holopic, "This was the look on Skyguy's face to finding out he had a Padawan." making the Zabrak burst into laughter.
Maris was voluptuous, sexy, perky, busty, slim, flexible and agile with her hair just above her shoulders whilst her demeanor was mischievously seductive.
Her outfit consisted of a very skimpy, black low-cut bandeau top with shoulder straps and a flat braided strap across her chest, form-fitting pants, a leather belt, and black combat boots.
"Have you been ok, Maris?" asked Ahsoka, checking in on her friend.
Brood nodded, "So far, but the weather here is a downer, and I'm glad to see you're both ok."
"Nice to see you too, Mar'ika," said Galen, fondly.
"Love you both," reminded Brood.
"Love you too… always." returned StarSnips.
As she stepped into view, a very small human girl with tanned skin, short blonde hair and hazel eyes waved, "Hi, Buir," much to the surprise of Maris and Ahsoka.
Marek smiled, "Hey, lil 'un, have gar been jate?"
"Always am, but I miss you." replied Omega.
"I'll come visit as soon as I can, ok?"
"Okay, I love you, Dad."
"Love you too, ad'ika." returned Galen before turning to the Dathomiri, "Mar'ika, Omega, you two stay out of trouble, ok?"
"No promises," said Maris, cheekily, then the holograms faded.
Turning to him with a raised facial marking, Tano asked, "You have a daughter?"
With a sigh, Galen explained, "She's actually an unaltered clone, like Boba. She was born a few years ago.
The first time I met her, I was about to say I was her brother, when Jango walked in and I went to ask him something, but started my sentence with "Dad,"."
After a moment, Ahsoka erupted into laughter, "Ok, that's classic."
Galen further explained, "When we cleared up the slip of the tongue, she gave me the Puss in Boots eyes and told me that she still wants to call me her dad.
Yoda, Kal, Aayla and Shaak Ti, who were there at the time, found it hilarious."
Tano chuckled, "Omega's adorable."
Mando'a translations.
Ni - I.
Mando'ade - children of Mandalore.
Jetii - Jedi.
ner - my.
ori'vod - big brother.
allit - family.
hut'uunla - cowardly.
aruetii - traitor.
Mar'ika - little Maris.
Buir - father.
ad'ika - daughter.
Gar - you.
Jate - good.
