Iris, Silandra, and Kiara found themselves in a small storage room on board the Dolphin-class passenger ship. After touching down on the planet of Nirn, they sifted through various supplies to equip themselves for their mission.

Silandra picked up a light Beskar weave armour set, its intricate pattern of ridges and plates visible under the light of the room. She handed it to Iris. "Padawan Potter put this on and let me know when you're done so I can check it over," she said.

Iris took the armour with both hands, its weight surprisingly manageable. She walked back to her room on the ship, admiring its matte finish as she shuffled through the hallways. She stepped inside and slipped into the armour one piece at a time, appreciating the craftsmanship that went into each segment. The cool touch of the Beskar against her skin gave her a sense of security as if it was forged especially for her. Each piece was meticulously designed, from the vambraces that fit snugly around her wrists to the lightweight cuirass that hugged her torso. The symbol of the Jedi was on the upper left side of her chest.

Kiara, on the other hand, was sifting through a collection of weapons. Her fingers traced the polished surfaces of lightsabers, blasters, and assorted melee weapons. "You know, I always prefer the old-fashioned way," she said, pulling out a sleek black vibroblade. The blade hummed to life with a subtle vibration, emitting a soft glow. She swung it expertly, testing its balance.

Silandra, observing Kiara's choice, nodded in agreement. "Sometimes, in the tight corridors of a ship or in the urban environments of planets, a close-quarters weapon can be more effective than a lightsaber."

Iris returned, her Beskar armour gleaming in the dim light. Silandra inspected her, ensuring every piece was secured properly. "It fits you well," Silandra remarked. "You look formidable."

Iris smiled, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thanks, Master. This armour is extraordinary."

Silandra handed a thick leather belt to Iris. It had a pouch for her lightstaff and multiple pockets lined with various tools, a first aid kit, an energy bar, and a spray bottle of sleep toxin in case things got dire.

"Padawan put this on," said Silandra. "This an equipment belt, it contains everything you need for this mission. When you are done Knight Lynn and I will disembark and I need you with me while we talk to High Queen Dulcea, Knight Lynn will scout the area where the slave ring is based at to see if our intel was correct."

"Okay Master," said Iris as she examined the belt more closely, noticing tiny details from the smooth texture of the buckles to the reinforced stitching. "But can you tell me what else exactly is on here besides my lightstaff and wand?"

Silandra reached forward, pointing out various components of the belt. "Of course, Padawan."

"First, this pouch here," she pointed to a larger compartment on the left side, "is for your lightstaff. Beside it, is a slim holster for your wand. You never know when you might need it, and it's better to have both at your disposal."

She moved her finger to a smaller pouch. "This is a basic first aid kit – it contains bandages, bacta patches, and some pain-relief pills. Always be prepared for any injuries, either to you or someone in your team."

Next, she pointed to a cylindrical container. "This is an energy bar. It's packed with nutrients and will give you a boost of energy when you're in a pinch and haven't had a meal."

She tapped on a tiny spray bottle. "This is a sleep toxin. It's non-lethal but will render any opponent unconscious within seconds of contact. Use it sparingly and only when necessary."

Then, she gestured to another pocket. "Here, we have a multi-tool. It has a range of functions from cutting to unlocking certain mechanisms. It's small but invaluable in certain situations."

Lastly, she indicated a small device attached to the back. "And this is a communicator, connected directly to the ship and to us. If you get separated or need assistance, use it immediately."

Iris nodded, taking in all the information. "Thank you, Master. This belt is even more equipped than I realized."

Silandra gave a proud smile. "Always be prepared, Padawan." before handing her two small blades and a blaster "These are Vibroblades and this is a blaster pistol, for non-lethal incapacitation. The blades are compact but sharp, with a vibration mechanism that can cut through most materials. The blaster is set to stun by default but can be switched to lethal mode if the situation demands it. However, I trust you to use your judgment and prioritize peaceful resolutions."

Iris hefted the blades, feeling the weight and balance, then holstered the stun blaster onto her belt. "I understand, Master. I'll use these tools responsibly."

Kiara, finishing her own preparations, walked over and clapped Iris on the shoulder. "You're looking more and more like a seasoned Knight every day, Potter. Remember, our goal is to end the slave ring and help those in need. We need to stick together and rely on each other's strengths."

Silandra nodded in agreement. "Knight Lynn speaks the truth. Our mission is a noble one, but not without its dangers. We need to be vigilant and support each other."

Iris straightened up; determination clear in her eyes. "I'm ready, Master. Let's put an end to this."

The hatch of the ship opened and three figures descended onto the planet's surface. The group was greeted by a tall woman, wearing a crown embedded with sapphire jewels, and a man in a formal, navy-blue uniform.

"Hello," said the woman. "I am High Queen Dulcea, queen of the planet Phadoes, and I welcome you on behalf of its people." Having finished her statement, she nodded towards the man standing next to her.

"I am Director Coulson of the Phadoes planetary police department," he bowed. "I take it these three are the Jedi help we were promised?"

Silandra stepped forward. "I am Jedi Master Silandra Comoran," she began as two younger figures emerged from behind her. "This is Jedi Knight Kiara Lynn and my padawan Iris Potter."

"I see," said Queen Dulcea, one eyebrow raised questioningly as she turned towards Iris. "Isn't your name Iris? How old are you, child?"

"I am eleven," replied Iris, chin held high and eyes full of determination.

The Queen smiled softly. "Aren't you a bit too young for this type of mission?"

Iris took a moment before responding, her posture unyielding. "With all due respect, Your Majesty, age does not determine skill or commitment. I have trained diligently under Master Comoran and I have trained under Deputy Grandmaster Satele Shan with my twin Harry. I am also an Empath and can sense the emotions of others. This skill, combined with my training, makes me a valuable asset to this mission. My commitment to the Jedi Code and to helping others is unwavering, regardless of my age."

Silandra stepped in, placing a reassuring hand on Iris's shoulder. "I wouldn't have brought Padawan Potter along if I didn't believe she was ready for this mission. She's proven herself time and time again."

Kiara nodded in agreement. "She's faced challenges that would break most adults and has come out stronger each time. We trust her abilities."

Director Coulson seemed impressed. "The reputation of the Jedi Order precedes you. We are grateful for your assistance and hope our combined efforts can put an end to this vile slave ring."

Queen Dulcea took a moment to observe the trio before her. "Very well. We will trust in your judgment, Master Comoran. However, remember that the people of Phadoes are relying on all of you to help free them from this darkness."

Silandra bowed respectfully. "We understand, Your Majesty, and are fully committed to ensuring the safety and freedom of the people of Phadoes."

Queen Dulcea nodded, her gaze still fixed on young Iris. "I hope you understand the gravity of this mission, child."

Iris nodded, her expression serious but determined. "I do, Your Majesty. My duty is to the people, to justice, and to the Force. I will not let them down."

A momentary silence enveloped the group, each individual lost in their thoughts of the impending mission. The weight of responsibility weighed heavy, not just on the shoulders of the Jedi but also on Queen Dulcea and Director Coulson.

Finally, the Queen spoke, her voice filled with a motherly warmth that was both comforting and authoritative. "Very well, young Potter. You have our trust. I pray that the Force be with you all."

"Jedi if you can follow us, I will brief you on all the intelligence we have gathered so far," said Director Coulson.

The Jedi followed Director Coulson into a large chamber, which appeared to be a war room of sorts. Several holograms displayed various locations across Phadoes, showing troop movements and suspected slave trade routes. Agents moved quickly, gathering data and analyzing intelligence. In the center of the room stood a large table, upon which a detailed holographic map of the region glowed vibrantly.

As they approached, Coulson activated another hologram that showed an elaborate fortress nestled in the mountains. "This," he began, pointing to the fortress, "is the main base of operations for the slave ring. It's heavily fortified, with several layers of security measures. What limited aerial reconnaissance has shown it to be controlled by the Sith Empire. Infiltrating it won't be easy."

Silandra examined the fortress closely, noting the multiple entry points, the defence systems, and the strategic positioning of the stronghold. "Sith involvement complicates things," she mused aloud.

Kiara nodded in agreement. "The dark side is strong here. I can feel it."

"The Sith have always dabbled in the trade of living beings," Silandra said grimly. "They believe in dominating and controlling others, seeing them as mere tools to be used for their own purposes."

Coulson cleared his throat. "While their beliefs are concerning, our main focus should be on dismantling their operation and freeing the enslaved people. We have limited resources and our agents have been unsuccessful in penetrating their defenses."

"Padawan Potter what do you sense," asked Kiara

Iris closed her eyes, taking a deep breath to center herself. The room waited in anticipation, keenly aware of the significance of her insights. After a moment, her brows furrowed slightly as she spoke, "I sense... fear, pain, and despair from the enslaved. I sense a lot of enslaved people at least two hundred and fifty within that fortress. There are also strong presences of dark side users, possibly Sith. They are... confident, perhaps even arrogant. But there's also a hint of... uncertainty, maybe even fear, from a few of them."

Silandra and Kiara exchanged glances. "That could be our advantage," Kiara whispered.

"Anything else Iris?" asked Silandra, "Like can you feel the emotions to get an estimate of the people stationed there."

Iris concentrated once again, her senses reaching out to the vast fortress. "The emotions are tangled, like a web of chaos," she began. "However, from what I can glean, there are numerous guards and mercenaries, each emanating feelings of boredom, complacency, or unease. I would estimate around three thousand to twenty-five hundred personnel stationed there, excluding the slaves. Among them, I can distinctly feel at least five or six dark side users, their presence like a blight among the rest."

Coulson frowned, "Those numbers are much higher than we expected. We knew of the Sith involvement but hadn't estimated so many stationed there."

Silandra's eyes narrowed. "They might have increased their forces due to the recent losses in other sectors. The Sith never like to appear vulnerable."

Kiara added, "It also might be because they know the Jedi are involved now. They'd want to ensure their stronghold is impregnable."

Silandra looked at Coulson, "Do you have any attack-style aircraft, that can perform precision strikes against targets?"

Coulson shook his head. "Our air fleet is outdated and easily detectable by their advanced sensors. Any approach by air would be met with heavy anti-aircraft fire."

"Then we need to think outside the box," said Kiara. "Perhaps a two-pronged approach – a covert operation to infiltrate and disable their defences, while a more overt assault distracts them."

Silandra nodded in agreement. "Okay, how about this Iris and I using stealth disable their anti-air defences, while Knight Lynn goes directly to where the slaves are being kept and defends the slaves from any potential harm. Once the anti-air defences are down, your forces, Director Coulson, can move in for a full-frontal assault, combining air and land assets diverting their attention and resources."

Director Coulson considered the plan for a moment. "It's risky, especially for you and the young padawan to infiltrate the fortress alone. But I believe it's our best shot. The moment you disable their anti-air defences, we'll mobilize our forces for the assault. The element of surprise is crucial here."

Silandra looked at Iris, seeking her opinion. The young padawan met her gaze confidently, "I'm ready, Master. Together, we can do this."

Kiara took a step forward, her demeanour resolute. "While you two infiltrate the defences, I will ensure the safety of the slaves. Once they are secure, we can use them as leverage. The Sith might think twice about retaliating if their precious 'commodities' are at risk."

Director Coulson nodded, "We'll coordinate our assault with your signal, Master Comoran. Once the defences are down, I'll have my best pilots lead the aerial attack. We'll also mobilize our ground troops to storm the fortress gates. With the Sith distracted, it might give us the edge we need."

Silandra nodded, her face etched with determination. "Time is of the essence. We need to strike fast and hard, catching them off guard. Let's prepare and ensure everyone knows their role."

Silandra and Iris crouched among the leafy branches of a bush, peering out at the vast Sith Fortress looming in front of them. Silandra's eyes glistened with determination. "Padawan," she whispered to Iris, her voice low and steady.

"Yes Master," came the reply.

Silandra glanced around before turning back to her Padawan. "On my signal," she said softly, "we use Force Cloak to conceal ourselves."

Iris nodded, taking a deep breath to calm her racing heart. The very air around the Sith Fortress was dense, suffused with the dark side of the Force. Even from their hiding place, she could sense its oppressive power weighing down on her. She had to trust in her training and in her master, Silandra.

Silandra's gaze never left the fortress. "We have one chance at this," she murmured. "The Sith are powerful, but they are not invincible. Remember the teachings, Iris. Use the Force to guide you, not to dominate. Let it flow."

Iris swallowed, memories of her training at the Jedi temple flooding back. "I understand, Master," she replied. "I will not let you down."

Silandra placed a reassuring hand on Iris's shoulder. "I have faith in you. Together, we can accomplish this mission. Remember, our goal is to shut down their anti-air defensives while Knight Lynn frees the slaves."

Silandra and Iris shared one last intense gaze, their mutual understanding and bond evident. The sheer immensity of the Sith Fortress, with its high walls and imposing turrets, would have intimidated most, but the duo drew strength from each other.

"There," Silandra pointed to a small, unguarded entrance. "Our way in."

Iris squinted to see it. "It's too exposed," she whispered.

"That's why they won't expect it," Silandra countered. "Our Force Cloak will give us the seconds we need."

Iris nodded, her nerves tingling with anticipation. "I'm ready."

Silandra took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. "May the Force be with us." With that, they both closed their eyes and summoned the Force, wrapping it around themselves like a cloak. The world around them faded slightly as they became nearly invisible to the naked eye.

Moving quickly but deliberately, the pair approached the entrance. Inside, the narrow corridors were lit by the eerie glow of red lanterns. The walls seemed to pulse with dark energy. Yet, the two Jedi moved stealthily, evading detection.

They eventually ended up in a room filled with computer terminals. Silandra's eyes widened at the sight of so many machines. "Iris, do you know how to hack?"

"No, Master," Iris replied meekly.

"Stay here while I hack this terminal," said Silandra, already typing furiously on the keyboard.

"Um, Master..." Iris began nervously, "There is an entire division stationed inside this base."

"Yeah, I know," Silandra replied without looking up from her task. "And we just alerted them to our presence. Look, Iris, I'm really sorry but I need you to watch my back while I do this. Can you do that for me?"

Iris raised her hands and the lightstaff in between them crackled to life. Brilliant green blades of energy sparked from both ends with a sharp hiss, and Iris confidently declared, "On it!"

"Well great, this room only controls a fifth of the anti-air defences," Silandra muttered as she continued to work on the terminal. "We need to access at least four more terminals to shut them all down."

Iris positioned herself at the entrance of the room, listening intently for footsteps. "Master, I can sense them approaching."

Silandra frowned, her fingers flying over the keyboard. "I need a few more minutes," she said.

Iris could feel the dark energy emanating from the incoming Sith. She tightened her grip on her lightstaff. "I'll hold them off," she said with determination.

The first group of imperial troopers burst into the room, their blaster rifles at the ready. Red bolts of energy flew past Iris, but she deftly deflected them with her lightstaff. The humming of the lightstaff mingled with the sound of blaster fire, filling the room with a chaotic symphony of combat.

Silandra glanced up briefly, witnessing Iris's skill and grace under pressure. It was a sight to behold; the young Jedi moved with precision and efficiency, parrying every shot and taking down trooper after trooper.

Suddenly, a Sith warrior, clad in black armour and wielding a menacing red lightsaber, entered the fray. He advanced on Iris, his movements swift and deadly. The two engaged in a fierce duel, their weapons clashing in a blinding display of light and shadow.

Silandra could feel the weight of the situation. She worked faster, the symbols on the terminal screen blurring together. "Almost there," she muttered.

The Sith warrior, sensing Iris's fatigue, launched a Force push, sending her crashing into a nearby wall. She groaned, struggling to get up, her lightstaff just out of reach. The Sith sneered, raising his lightsaber for the final blow.

Suddenly, a strong gust of Force energy surged through the room, knocking the Sith off balance. Silandra stood, her hands extended, her face set with determination.

"I've got this one, Iris," Silandra said, igniting her own green lightsaber and engaging the Sith warrior.

Iris, gathering her strength, forced herself to her feet and retrieved her lightstaff. She moved to cover the entrance, ensuring no more troopers entered the room.

The Sith warrior and Silandra clashed fiercely, their movements fast and fluid. But Silandra's experience and determination gave her the upper hand. With a swift move, she disarmed the Sith, his red lightsaber clattering to the floor.

Suddenly, alarms blared throughout the base.

"We need to move!" Silandra exclaimed, helping Iris to her feet. "Now! we have to get to the next terminal."

The two Jedi sprinted through the winding corridors of the Sith Fortress, their cloaks billowing behind them. The loud alarms echoed through the halls, ratcheting up the tension as they navigated their way through the sprawling compound.

A group of Sith Acolytes, their faces masked and cloaked in shadowy robes, suddenly emerged from a side passage. Iris, thinking quickly, summoned the Force to create a barrier between them and the Sith. With a loud crash, the Acolytes were momentarily held back by the wall of energy.

"We can't keep this up for long," Iris said breathlessly, her focus on maintaining the barrier.

"Just a little further," Silandra assured her, spotting a terminal room ahead.

As they approached, Silandra swiftly used the Force to rip the door off its hinges. Inside, the room was eerily similar to the one they had left. More terminals, more chances to disable the defences.

Silandra immediately started working on one of the terminals while Iris guarded the entrance. The barrier she'd erected earlier began to wane, and the Sith Acolytes surged forward, their intent clear.

"We're running out of time, Master!" Iris exclaimed, deflecting the relentless onslaught of the dark side attacks.

Silandra's fingers danced over the terminal keys, her concentration absolute. "Almost... done... Got it!" The second terminal had been hacked.

The lights inside the room dimmed momentarily, signalling the deactivation of another portion of the anti-air defences. But Silandra and Iris couldn't celebrate their success just yet. The Sith Acolytes outside were growing more aggressive, their dark energies palpable as they tried to breach the room.

"We need to find a way out," Iris stated, her voice filled with urgency.

Silandra quickly scanned the room, her eyes landing on a ventilation shaft. "There!" she exclaimed, pointing towards it. "Help me remove the grate."

Working together, they managed to pry it open, revealing a narrow passage. Silandra quickly accessed a small device on her belt, sending a signal to Knight Lynn to inform him of their progress.

"Into the shaft," Silandra ordered. "We'll use it to get closer to the next terminal."

The two Jedi entered the ventilation system, using their lightsabers to illuminate the way. The confined space was filled with the hum of machinery, and the air was stale, but it offered them a reprieve from the pursuing Sith.

As they crawled forward, Silandra could sense the growing unease in Iris. "Stay focused, Padawan," she whispered reassuringly. "We're getting closer."

Iris nodded, her resolve strengthened. "I can feel the dark side growing stronger, Master. The next terminal must be close to the heart of the fortress."

After what felt like hours, they finally emerged from the shaft into a vast chamber, dominated by a massive energy core. The pulsating heart of the fortress throbbed with dark energy. Guarding the chamber were several Sith warriors, their crimson lightsabers already ignited.

Silandra took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on the terminal located on the opposite side of the room. "We can't afford to be subtle anymore. Ready, Iris?"

Iris ignited her lightstaff, determination etched on her face. "Always."

With a synchronized battle cry, the two Jedi charged into the room, their weapons blazing. The Sith warriors met them head-on, their powerful strikes challenging the Jedi at every turn.

The chamber became a dance floor of light and shadow as blades clashed and the Force was wielded with expert precision. Silandra deflected a Sith strike and summoned a powerful Force push, sending several warriors tumbling backward. Iris, with her unique double-bladed technique, kept multiple Sith at bay, her green blades a blur.

Reaching the terminal, Silandra began to work her magic once again, her fingers dancing over the keys as she tried to disable another section of the defences.

Iris, in a desperate attempt to buy more time, unleashed a powerful Force wave, creating a temporary barrier between them and the Sith. "Hurry, Master!"

With a triumphant beep, the terminal signalled its deactivation. "Three down," Silandra said, panting from the exertion. "Two to go."

The two Jedi turned to face the approaching Sith once again. Every second mattered, and they needed to maintain the upper hand.

The room's atmosphere was charged with tension and energy, the unmistakable hum of lightsabers and the echoing resonance of the Force filling every crevice. Sweat dripped from Iris's forehead, her breath heavy. "Master," she called out, parrying a blow from a Sith warrior, "we need a plan."

"We move to the next terminal," Silandra responded, deflecting an incoming blaster shot with her lightsaber. "Use the core's energy fields to our advantage!"

Understanding her Master's intention, Iris began manipulating the Force around the energy core, causing fluctuations that interfered with the Sith's perceptions and movements. The warriors began to falter, their precise strikes becoming less coordinated.

Silandra and Iris fought back-to-back, forming an impenetrable shield of green energy. The Sith attempted to regroup, but the Jedi's synchronized moves kept them on their toes.

Suddenly, a sharp and chilling scream pierced the air, silencing the room. A dark figure descended from above, her red cape billowing around her. Darth Kalesha, a well-known and feared Sith Lord, landed gracefully, her crimson lightsaber ignited. "So," she sneered, her voice dripping with disdain, "the Jedi have come to play."

Silandra and Iris exchanged worried glances. They had heard tales of Kalesha's power and ruthlessness. She was no ordinary Sith Lord.

"We're here to end this tyranny," Silandra declared, holding her lightsaber firmly.

Kalesha laughed, the sound echoing through the chamber. "Your bravado is admirable but foolish."

Without warning, she lunged at Silandra with blinding speed. The two engaged in a fierce duel, their blades clashing with incredible intensity. Iris tried to intervene, but two Sith warriors blocked her path, forcing her to defend herself.

The chamber resonated with the sounds of combat, the air thick with tension. Silandra parried Kalesha's strikes, trying to find an opening. However, the Sith Lord's skills were exceptional. She seemed to predict every move, countering with precision.

Meanwhile, Iris, with her incredible agility, managed to dispatch one of the Sith warriors. Turning her attention to the remaining one, she lunged, striking him down with a swift move. However, as she tried to help Silandra, she found herself surrounded by more Sith reinforcements.

Silandra, sensing her Padawan's peril, used the Force to hurl a cluster of Sith away from Iris. The two Jedi regrouped, fighting back-to-back once again. They needed to reach the next terminal, but Kalesha and her minions stood in their way.

"We need a distraction," Iris whispered.

Silandra nodded, formulating a plan. Channeling the Force, she summoned a blinding light, momentarily disorienting the Sith. Seizing the opportunity, the two Jedi made a break for a nearby corridor, leading to another terminal room.

Behind them, Kalesha roared in fury, her voice echoing through the fortress. "You cannot run forever, Jedi!"

As Silandra and Iris sprinted down the dimly lit hallway, they could hear the distant sounds of chaos. Knight Lynn and his team were causing distractions elsewhere, drawing the Sith's attention away from the two Jedi.

Entering another terminal room, Silandra quickly began the hacking process while Iris guarded the entrance. Outside, the sounds of footsteps grew louder.

"We don't have much time," Iris warned.

"I'm almost there," Silandra replied, her fingers flying over the terminal keys.

As the terminal signalled its deactivation, a massive explosion rocked the fortress. The entire room shook, and debris fell from the ceiling.

"That should be Knight Lynn's handiwork," Silandra said, grinning. "One more terminal to go."

The Sith fortress, once an imposing and seemingly impenetrable edifice, was now riddled with disturbances. Alarms blared, smoke wafted through the corridors, and the once-coordinated Sith defence was now thrown into disarray.

Iris and Silandra darted through another corridor, using the Force to feel their way to the final terminal. Every corner they turned, every door they opened, posed a potential threat. Yet, the two Jedi moved with a singular purpose, their connection to each other and the Force driving them forward.

Suddenly, a wave of dark energy washed over them, nearly knocking them off their feet. Ahead, standing with menacing grace, was Darth Kalesha.

"Enough of this game," she growled, her lightsaber glowing ominously. "This ends now."

"Padawan complete the mission, I will deal with Darth Kalesha," said Silandra threw her bond with Iris.

Iris hesitated for a brief moment, locking eyes with her master. The weight of their shared responsibility and the unspoken words passed between them in that fleeting connection.

"You cannot protect her forever," Kalesha sneered, reading the Jedi's intentions.

With a deep breath, Silandra ignited her lightsaber and charged at Kalesha, their blades meeting in a brilliant display of light and energy. The Sith Lord's moves were swift and deadly, but Silandra matched her blow for blow, their blades dancing in a symphony of light and shadow.

Iris took this distraction as her chance. She sprinted down the corridor, relying on the Force to guide her to the last terminal. Every second mattered, and she could not afford to get caught.

Behind her, the clash between Silandra and Kalesha intensified. The Sith Lord, though formidable, seemed to underestimate the Jedi Master's determination and skill.

Reaching the terminal room, Iris immediately began working on the console. Her fingers danced over the keys, and the terminal beeped in response. She could feel the energy of the base shifting as the last of the defences went offline.

Suddenly, a piercing scream echoed through the corridors. Iris's heart raced, fearing the worst. She deactivated the terminal and sprinted back to the chamber where she had left Silandra and Kalesha.

Entering the room, she found Silandra on her knees, panting heavily. Kalesha lay motionless, her lightsaber deactivated by her side. Silandra had managed to beat the Sith Lord, but the battle had taken its toll.

"Iris," Silandra whispered, her voice weak. "The mission... is it complete?"

Iris nodded, tears brimming in her eyes. "Yes, Master. We did it."

Silandra smiled weakly, pride evident in her gaze. "You did well, my Padawan. The Force is strong with you. Time to signal for the main assault to begin, but first I need a Bacta injection."

Kiara Lynn, a Mirialan Jedi whose skin shifted hues of blues in the daylight, stepped forward and grabbed the hilt of her dual lightsabers. Her fingers caressed the grooves along the handles as she prepared to enter the Sith fortress, her mission was to head straight toward the slaves while the others shut down the Anti-Air defences.

"It has begun" muttered Kiara to herself, letting the force flow through her, guiding her every move. She took a deep breath, the air filling her lungs with a sharp tinge of the dark energy that seemed to permeate the atmosphere of the Sith fortress.

The entrance loomed ahead, guarded by two Sith acolytes dressed in black robes, their faces hidden beneath hooded cloaks. Their red lightsabers hummed in the air, casting an eerie glow onto the stone path.

Not wanting to draw unnecessary attention, Kiara tapped into the force, cloaking her presence. She swiftly moved past the guards, her footsteps silent as she utilized her Jedi training to become one with the shadows.

The interior of the fortress was as menacing as its exterior. Dark corridors led to multiple pathways, and the distant screams of tortured souls echoed throughout the halls. The air was thick with the weight of malevolent intentions.

But Kiara's determination outweighed the oppressive atmosphere. She recalled the faces of the innocent slaves she had vowed to save – men, women, and children who had been captured and put to work for the Sith. Their plight was the driving force behind her mission.

She reached a junction, and using the force, reached out to sense where the slaves might be. A pull from the left corridor indicated their presence. As she moved forward, she encountered several Sith guards. Without hesitation, she activated her dual lightsabers, their blue blades contrasting the darkness around her.

With swift and precise movements, she engaged in combat. Each strike, each parry was in perfect harmony with the force. The Sith guards were formidable, but Kiara's skills as a Jedi and her determination made her a force to be reckoned with.

One by one, the Sith guards fell. However, as the last one crumpled to the ground, an alarm began to blare, echoing throughout the fortress. She knew she didn't have much time.

Following her instincts, Kiara made her way to the holding cells where the slaves were kept. Their faces lit up with a mixture of hope and disbelief when they saw her. Without wasting a moment, she began to free them, using her lightsabers to cut through their chains.

Suddenly, a dark presence filled the room. From the shadows emerged a Sith Lord, his eyes glowing with malice. "You've come far, Jedi," he sneered, "But this is where your journey ends. I have already sent my apprentice Darth Kalesha after the other two Jedi, you will not reach the rest of our merchandise alive. For I am Darth Burlax, dark lord of the Sith"

Kiara's heart raced, her chest tightening at the name of Darth Burlax. He was infamous among the Jedi for his ruthless tactics and unparalleled strength in the dark side of the Force. But despite the dread he instilled, she stood tall, lightsabers at the ready.

"The slaves you've imprisoned are innocent, Burlax," Kiara's voice was steady, her green eyes piercing the dark abyss of his own, "This is their journey to freedom, and I will not let you stand in their way."

Burlax laughed, the sound echoing through the room, cold and malevolent. "You truly believe you can stand against the might of the Sith and prevail?" He summoned his lightsaber, its deep red glow illuminating the dark corners of the cell. "You like all of those who follow the light are a fool, you seriously think I kept the merchandise in one place, like every terminal to shut down the Anti-Air defences we spread them out throughout the base, Now Prepare to die."

The air grew heavy with tension as the two force-sensitive beings squared off, their auras clashing in the room. The slaves, sensing the impending clash, huddled into the corners, trying to keep out of the way.

Kiara felt the weight of responsibility heavy on her shoulders. Not just for the slaves she had promised to free, but also for her fellow Jedi tackling the Anti-Air defences. Burlax's mention of his apprentice only added to her worries. But she couldn't let her focus waver.

With a roar, Burlax lunged, his crimson blade aiming straight for Kiara's heart. She parried his attack, the force resonating with the clash of their lightsabers. They danced around the room, a symphony of light and shadow, each trying to overpower the other.

Kiara drew on her Jedi training, focusing on her defensive techniques to deflect and redirect Burlax's aggressive onslaught. The Sith Lord was indeed powerful, his moves infused with the raw fury of the dark side. However, he underestimated the Mirialan's agility and finesse.

During one intense exchange, Kiara managed to force-push Burlax, sending him crashing into the stone wall. She seized the opportunity to guide the slaves out of the cell, shouting, "Go! Find safety!"

But as she turned to face Burlax again, she felt a sharp pain in her leg. Looking down, she saw a throwing knife embedded in her calf, thrown by one of Burlax's loyal followers who had entered unnoticed. The pain threatened to overwhelm her, but she gritted her teeth and pulled the blade out, using the Force to dull the pain.

Burlax, recovering, lunged at her once more. This time Kiara, despite her injury, was ready. She deflected his blows, waiting for an opening. And when it came, she plunged her lightsaber into the Sith Lord's side, incapacitating him.

With Burlax down, the rest of his followers scattered, fear evident in their eyes. Kiara, leaning against the cell bars, took a moment to catch her breath. The room was filled with an eerie silence, broken only by the distant alarms still blaring.

She could sense the energy shifting in the fortress. The slaves were escaping, and her Jedi allies were making progress with the Anti-Air defences. But the news of the scattered prisoners meant their mission was far from over.

Taking a deep breath, Kiara used the Force to heal some of her wounds, mending the flesh and reducing the pain from the knife wound. The Sith fortress was vast, and time was of the essence. She had to trust that the other Jedi were holding their own and managing their tasks efficiently.

Using her connection to the Force, she reached out, trying to locate the scattered slaves. She could sense their fear, their hope, and their determination. These sensations acted like beacons, guiding her through the winding corridors of the fortress.

Along the way, she encountered various traps and more of Burlax's followers. Some she incapacitated with the Force, while others she engaged in brief combat, always mindful to avoid unnecessary fatalities. The teachings of the Jedi were clear: peace and defence were the priorities, not aggression.

"Status report," said Kiara through her comlink.

"Knight Lynn, my padawan and I have taken down the Anti-Air Defenses however we were forced to kill a Sith called Darth Kalesha, and a great deal of soldiers, my padawan has detected at least ten thousand more troops stationed here," replied Silandra, a seasoned Jedi Master with decades of experience. Her voice, though calm, carried a hint of weariness.

Kiara's heart sank at the mention of Darth Kalesha's death. Although the Sith were their adversaries, every life lost was a tragedy in the grand scope of the Force. "Understood, Master Silandra," Kiara responded, her voice thick with emotion. "Have you managed to locate any more of the slaves?"

There was a brief pause before Silandra responded, "Yes, we've freed a few hundred, but there are still many more scattered throughout the fortress. We need to work quickly. The fortress is on high alert now. The Sith are mobilizing their forces."

"We need a plan," Kiara murmured, calculating their next move. The sheer number of Sith troops was overwhelming, but their primary mission remained the same: rescue the slaves.

"We'll split up," Silandra suggested. "You continue freeing the slaves while my padawan and I divert the bulk of the Sith forces. We'll create a diversion, drawing them away from the cells. Hopefully, that should buy you some time."

Kiara nodded, "Agreed. Once we've freed the majority of the slaves, we'll rendezvous at the eastern entrance. I've sensed a weaker concentration of dark energy there; it might be our best exit point."

"The Force be with you, Knight Lynn," Silandra's voice resonated with warmth and determination.

"And with you, Master Silandra," Kiara responded before ending the transmission.

With the new plan in place, Kiara sprinted through the dimly lit halls, lightsabers ready, feeling the pain in her leg receding as the Force strengthened her. Every once in a while, she'd stumble upon a group of imprisoned slaves, and with swift precision, she'd free them and guide them toward the designated exit.

Meanwhile, Master Silandra and her padawan orchestrated their diversion. Explosions rocked the fortress as they sabotaged the main power generators, sending the Sith stronghold into temporary darkness. The resulting chaos allowed Kiara more room to operate, even if the margin was slight.

As Kiara neared one of the larger detention blocks, she sensed a group of younglings huddled together in fear. The heavy door to their cell was guarded by a squad of Sith soldiers. With a deep breath, she plunged into the fray, her blue lightsabers dancing in a whirlwind of light and motion. The soldiers, caught off guard by her speed and ferocity, were quickly dispatched. With tears in their eyes, the younglings rushed to hug Kiara, their small faces buried in her robes.

"Go to the eastern entrance," she instructed them. "Stay close together, and the Force will guide you."

The further Kiara ventured into the fortress, the more challenging her opponents became. She could feel the dark side growing stronger, trying to penetrate her defences and cloud her judgment. But she clung to her training, to the memories of her master teaching her the importance of balance and serenity, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Hours felt like minutes, and with every slave she freed, Kiara's hope grew. She could feel the momentum shifting. But she was also acutely aware of the growing presence of Sith reinforcements pouring into the fortress.

It wasn't long before Kiara's comlink buzzed to life again. "Knight Lynn," Master Silandra's voice crackled through, heavy with urgency. "We're pinned down near the central chamber. Sith reinforcements are pouring in. We can't hold them off for much longer. especially since my Padawan is injured"

Kiara's heart raced. "Hold on, Master Silandra. I'm on my way."

Trusting in the Force, Kiara navigated her way to the central chamber. The sound of clashing lightsabers grew louder with each step. As she burst into the room, she saw Master Silandra and Iris injured surrounded by a sea of Sith soldiers and acolytes, their red lightsabers forming a barrier of death.

With a fierce battle cry, Kiara joined the fray, her lightsabers cutting a path through the enemy ranks. The three Jedi fought back-to-back, their combined strength pushing back the Sith wave.

After what felt like hours, the number of Sith began to dwindle. But the battle had taken its toll. Silandra's padawan lay wounded, and Master Silandra herself was showing signs of fatigue.

"We need to retreat," Kiara shouted above the din. "The eastern entrance! let's hope the Phadoes Planetary Police Department does their job and launches a ground and air assault on this base"

Silandra nodded, lifting Iris with the Force to ease her movement. "We'll cover you," she shouted, her eyes determined.

Kiara took point, leading the way as the two other Jedi provided cover. The once mighty Sith fortress seemed like a maze of twisting corridors and dead ends. However, Kiara's connection to the Force guided them, weaving through the fortress like water finding its way through cracks.

As they neared the eastern entrance, the distant roar of starship engines filled the air. Kiara's heart lifted; reinforcements had arrived. The skies above were filled with Phadoes Planetary Police Department ships, their lasers streaking down on the Sith base. Ground troops landed swiftly, engaging the remaining Sith soldiers in intense combat.

Taking advantage of the diversion, the trio made their way to the rendezvous point. As they reached the entrance, Kiara sent out a signal flare using the Force. Almost immediately, a rescue ship descended, its ramp lowering to welcome them aboard.

They quickly boarded the ship, and as it took off, Kiara could see the fortress below, now swarmed by the Phadoes forces. Fires raged, and smoke billowed, but the dark, oppressive aura of the Sith stronghold was beginning to wane.

Kiara took the padawan's hand in hers and closed her eyes to feel the swirl of energy flowing between them. Master Silandra hovered over Iris, gently running a warm, glowing healing stone along her wounds. The young Jedi gasped in pain as tears streamed down her cheeks.

Kiara nodded, exhaustion was evident in her eyes. "But at great cost. The Sith are not easily defeated, and we've lost many today."

"The Force has its way, young Knight. Today, we've brought hope to those who had none. And in the face of darkness, hope is our greatest weapon." said Silandra placing a reassuring hand on Kiara's shoulder.

"I knew taking an 11-year-old on a mission of this calibre was a bad idea, but did Grandmaster Zym listen to us no," said Kiara looking at Iris.

Master Silandra looked out of the ship's viewport, the remnants of the Sith fortress becoming distant specks. "The decisions of the Grandmasters are never taken lightly. They see potential and strength in individuals that even we sometimes fail to recognize. Iris may be young, but she's shown resilience and courage far beyond her years."

"This is Director Coulson of the Phadoes Planetary Police Department," a voice said over the ship's communicators "We have a medical team on standby for the young padawan."

Iris's screams of pain echoed through the ship; she was covered in blood. Silandra was quickly trying to remove her armour to access and heal her wounds. "Hurry," Silandra urged, her voice filled with a mixture of worry and determination. Kiara could see that the young padawan had taken a significant injury, possibly from a lightsaber. The wound was deep, and the surrounding area was scorched.

Kiara knelt beside Silandra and reached out to grasp Iris' hand. She closed her eyes, focusing on harnessing the power of the Force and sending energy into the little girl's body. Iris' breathing levelled off slightly, though she was still writhing in pain.

"We need to act fast," Kiara cried, "or else we'll lose her arm and leg." She moved swiftly, using medical equipment from her satchel to secure splints around the injured limbs.

"I've stabilized the worst of it," Kiara shouted over the noise, "but she needs immediate medical attention!"

Silandra's eyes flitted around, scanning the ship for anything that might help. "Captain, do you have a bacta tank aboard?"

The captain, a rugged man with years of combat experience etched onto his face, nodded. "We've got a small emergency unit. It's not much, but it'll do for now."

Silandra, with a burst of Force energy, lifted Iris into the air and moved swiftly to the tank. Gently placing the young padawan inside, the translucent healing fluid immediately began to envelop her. They could see her chest rise and fall more steadily as the bacta went to work on her wounds.

Director Coulson's voice came over the comm again, "Our medical facility is prepped and ready for arrival. We have a full bacta tank and specialists waiting. Hang in there, young padawan."

Kiara and Silandra exchanged glances, both feeling the weight of the day's events. They had faced one of the toughest missions of their lives, and although they had achieved their goal, the costs were significant.

"We did what we had to," Silandra whispered, her eyes on the floating form of her padawan. "But it's never easy."

Kiara nodded. "There's always a price to pay. We just have to ensure that the sacrifices made are not in vain."

As the ship touched down, the med team swarmed aboard, expertly transferring Iris from the makeshift bacta tank to a full medical one. They rushed her off, her small form surrounded by a flurry of medics.

Silandra watched them go, her face a mask of worry. Kiara placed a hand on her shoulder, squeezing it gently. "She's strong, Silandra. She'll pull through."

"I know I have trained her since she was 8, I am just worried about her mental state, she was forced to kill today and those were her first kills," Silandra replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Kiara looked down, her expression sombre. "War leaves scars, both physical and mental. But she has you, and the entire Jedi Order, to guide her through this. The Force is with her."

Silandra nodded, tears threatening at the corners of her eyes. "It's just... seeing her in this state, it reminds me of my own trials as a padawan. The weight of taking a life is heavy, especially for one so young."

Kiara sighed, remembering her own past experiences. "The path of a Jedi is filled with trials and tribulations. Every decision we make, and every action we take, moulds us into who we are meant to be. Iris will learn and grow from this, and she will emerge stronger. It's our responsibility to guide and support her through that journey."

Silandra looked up, her gaze fixed on the horizon, where the sun was beginning to set. "We are the guardians of peace and justice in the galaxy. We must bear the weight of our choices, so others don't have to. But it doesn't make it any easier."

Kiara nodded in agreement. "The Sith prey on the weak and vulnerable, but we stand as a beacon of hope. We've seen the worst of what they can do today, but we've also seen the best of what we can do. We've saved countless lives, and we've given hope to an entire planet."

As the two Jedi Knights stood in contemplation, Director Coulson approached them. "The medical team is doing everything they can for Iris. We'll keep you updated on her condition."

"Thank you, Director," Silandra said, nodding in appreciation.

The weight of the day's events weighed heavily on the trio, but amidst the pain and loss, there was hope. Hope that they had made a difference, hope that the darkness could be held at bay, and hope that the young padawan would recover and continue her journey as a Jedi.

AN: This chapter was really fun to write, I originally had like 4k words planned for this chapter instead you all get an 8.2k word intense and action-filled chapter.

Please read and review, I read and try to reply to every review.

For those who like my fic HTTM, I apologize but that fic is on hiatus for now.