Here is Chapter 11 of the Mandalorian Maverick. A son out for revenge puts the Jedi up against some dangerous Bounty Hunters who have hostages. The son of Jango Fett is after Mace Windu but thankfully there are Jedi who can stop him. After that, another crisis brings Will back to Mandalore to aid the Duchess from corruption and internal struggle. And the Separatists attempt to stop the Republic's ability to fight the war by going after Kamino, the heart of the Republic Clone trooper program. They won't get it without a fight. Enjoy!

The Mandalorian Maverick: Back into the action

Lethal track down. A young Boba Feet has taken the law into his own hands and made two attempts on the life of Mace Windu, the Jedi Master who killed his father. Boba's mentor, Bounty Hunter Aurra Sing, has taken three Republic officers hostage in an effort to force Windu to face Boba on their terms.

21BBY: Coruscant, Jedi Temple

Master Windu and Master Skywalker were recovering in the temple's hospital wing. With some time in bacta tanks they would recover 100%. Anakin looked out at the city from the window, thinking about what was happened.

"So, what are you planning to do with this son of Jango Fett?" Anakin asked Windu.

"I'm not planning to do anything." He replied.

"That kid destroyed an entire cruiser trying to get to you, and you're just gonna let it go?" Anakin questioned while Windu was just looking over some files on a datapad.

"Is there something else I should be doing, Skywalker?" Windu wondered.

"How about tracking him down?" Anakin suggested.

"So, I should behave as this child does? I should seek revenge."

"No. How is it revenge if you stop this kid and bring him to justice?" Anakin pointed out.

"In case you hadn't noticed we are fighting a war." Windu reminded him when the door opened and in walked Plo Koon, Ahsoka, and Will wearing his padawan robes.

"We have a situation. We received a transmission from the bounty hunters. They apparently took hostages." Plo Koon lowered the shades over the window and projected the message they got. It showed Boba Fett and a female bounty hunter wielding blaster pistols while three Republic officers were gagged and tied up in front of them.

"Mace Windu, you were lucky to escape. Your friends here were not so fortunate." Boba held a blaster pistol at one of the clones.

"Until you face Boba, these men will be killed one at a time. What's your name?" The bounty hunter asked the clone but he didn't answer so she gave him a harsh kick to the side. "Name?!"

"CT-411."

"Ugh, pathetic. Boba, do it." The bounty hunter ordered. The five Jedi watched as they saw the young boy aim his blaster at the clone but struggled with actually pulling the trigger. He ended up not doing it so the bounty hunter did it for him. "Only two to go, Windu. Come and find us. We'll be waiting."

"I'll go." Windu declared.

"I thought you had bigger concerns." Anakin reminded him.

"That was before we knew hostages were involved." Windu said.

"You are too injured to travel and your presence would only aggravate the boy." Plo Koon told him. "Padawan Tano and I will go instead."

"Master Plo Koon, if I may. I have some contacts that might be able to assist you in tracking down the bounty hunters. They'll be able to make this process much faster." Will offered. Plo Koon and Mace Windu looked at one another, thinking the same thing before Windu nodded.

"Very well. Padawan Vizsla you will assist Master Plo Koon and Ahsoka Tano in their mission. Your time now restricted to the temple is over. You've demonstrated great humility and self-discipline but be mindful going forward." Windu told him.

"Yes, Master Windu." Will bowed his head before leaving the room with Master Plo Koon and Ahsoka.

"He is right, Padawan Vizsla. Your path through the force is an unusual one but do not let that sway you from your duties. Your time here at the temple has been of one of self-reflection and contemplation. Remember this time well." Plo Koon told him.

"Yes, Master Plo Koon." He replied.

"So, how do we find this bounty hunter?" Ahsoka wondered.

"First thing first is identifying her and I know someone who can help." Will led them to the one of communication rooms where he connected his commlink to the table. They waited a few seconds and soon enough Qi'ra appeared via hologram. "Sorry to bother you, Qi'ra but I could use some help."

"Happy to be of service. With how well the Mandalorians have been for Qibbu, I owe you one now." She told him. "What do you need?"

"An ID." Will brought up the image of the female Palliduvan Bounty Hunter from the ransom video. "Any idea who she is?"

"Yeah, I know her. Her name is Aurra Sing. She's a talented bounty hunter and a deadly sniper. Qibbu's heard of her before. She often sells her talent to people who can afford her including the Hutts. If you want someone protected or taken out, she's a dependable person to contract." Qi'ra told them.

"Anything else you can tell us about her? People she works with specifically or places she frequents?" Plo Koon asked.

"Not really. Qibbu's never used her service. She's good but ruthless with zero qualms about killing anyone who gets in her way. And she has no problems with using underhanded tactics or traps so if you're going after her then be careful." Qi'ra warned them and they nodded. "But I do know something. Before the Clone Wars Aurra Sing often worked with a group of bounty hunters and a person she was often seen side by side with was a Mandalorian. Jango Fett."

"Which explains how she met up with his son Boba. Thanks, Qi'ra." Will ended the call and then contacted someone else.

"Qi'ra didn't get us much info." Ahsoka pointed out.

"No, but what she did give us is extremely helpful. Aurra Sing worked alongside Jango enough that his son would go to her for help with his revenge. And I know someone else who knew Jango." Will sent out the communication signal and waited a few seconds. That's when the communication line was answered and Kal Skirata appeared via hologram. "Hey, Kal. Sorry to bother you but I promise to be quick. I need some intel."

"It's all right. I've got a few minutes to spare." Kal said as Will brought up the image of Aurra Sing. "Oh, it's her. I was hoping to go the rest of my life without seeing her but I guess that was just wishful thinking."

"You sound familiar with her but not in a good way." Plo Koon remarked.

"It's because it's not. I've worked with Jango several times in the past which is how I know Aurra. She's good but not someone I'd want watching my back on an assignment or mission." Kal admitted. "The only reason Jango kept her around was because she was good at what she did. And he knew she was too scared of him to ever risk screwing him on a job or taking him out."

"Do you know anything we can use to help find her? She's got some hostages." Will said so Kal gave it some thought.

"I do know there's one person she would have work with her on something high profile to get the Jedi's attention. A Trandoshan bounty hunter named Bossk. The two worked together a lot in the past so if she were going to do something that would get your attention then she'd want someone she's worked with before. I do know that Jango and Aurra often hung out in certain places on Coruscant in the lower levels." Kal told them.

"The Underworld." Plo Koon said, knowing full well about Coruscant's lower levels. They were the among the first levels of Coruscant ever constructed hundred of thousands of years ago and were the place where the poor and disenfranchised call home and often forgotten by or ignored by the Coruscant elite. It was also a haven for Bounty Hunters, pirates, and criminal gangs.

"Yeah, but on one level in particular because it had his favorite cantina, Cato's. Only one level that was on. 1313. If you have a shot on finding out where Aurra Sing is, it's gonna be there but be careful. The second that place sees Jedi they're gonna clam up faster than a Gintar's spawn and any further attempts to get information will require your lightsabers." Kal warned them. "Good luck, kid."

"Thanks, Kal." Will ended their communique and grabbed his communicator. "Looks like we're going to 1313."

"All right. We go down there, get some info and then we find this bounty hunter." Ahsoka laid out.

"I'm afraid it'll be much more difficult then that. Kal was right about one thing. The second they see Jedi down there then they won't talk no matter how hard we try." Plo Koon pointed out when Will got an idea.

"I think I have a way that could help us." He said with a playful glint in his eyes. Plo Koon and Ahsoka looked at one another and shrugged.

Several hours later…

Coruscant level 1313, Cato's Cantina

Loud raucous dance music could be heard in Cato's cantina and a general good time was had. Patrons chatted with another or gulped down alcoholic beverages while dancers enticed people to try and buy a private session for some additional credits. The song came to an end so the dancers came down from their perches and mingled with the clientele to try and get some extra credits. The bartender filled out drink orders and some casual conversation was had between everyone. Two male human criminals and a male Quarren Trawler were accosting a blue-skinned Mythrol man in a booth in the corner.

The Quarren slammed the Mythrol's face into the table as the two humans sat on both sides so he couldn't escape. The other patrons in the bar were disturbed by what was going on but none were willing or brave enough to get involved.

"Look at his glands!" One of the male criminals said in Huttese. "I bet we could sell them for a good price."

"Please, please! I have credits! Take them!" The Mythrol pleaded, placing his credits on the table.

"He's young. The musk will be sweet." The man said as the Quarren lifted the Mythrol up. The two humans took out knives and inched closed. "And now for the real prize."

[Electronic whish of the door opening & Mandalorian theme song playing]

The door to the cantina opened and there stood a Mandalorian in full Beskar armor colored white and light blue. The cloak on his shoulders fluttered behind due to small gusts from a draft and the shine of the armor caught everyone's eye. That and the weapons on his belt including a WESTAR-35 blaster pistol holstered on his thigh. They gazed on in awe and in fear.

"Hey! Close the door!" The man shouted and the Mandalorian walked into the cantina. The door closed behind him as he walked over to the bar. The man looked down at his table and saw his drink had fallen over. "You spilled my drink!"

The Mandalorian ignored him and walked up to the bar, not making so much as a grunt or cough. It was Will in his armor and he had to admit that standing there with everyone looking at him in awe and in slight fear felt kind of awesome. And he could hear the subtle sounds of a Bes'bev in his head as he made his entrance. A Bes'bev was a traditional Mandalorian flute and at that moment he could hear the sounds of the flute going off in his head as he felt like he was playing out a scenario he imagined a thousand times in his head as a kid. When his mother told him stories of ancient Mandalorian warrior who were revered and feared as their very presence drew attention. Will channeled his Mandalorian side and stayed in character.

"Hey, Mando!" The man shouted in full disgust. He walked over to the bar and got onto his right side. "I said, you spilled, my drink…"

Everyone in the bar watched in anticipation to see what would happen. The male Bivall bartender was nervous about something bad happening in his place of business.

"He says you spilled his drink." The bartender told the Mandalorian, thinking that he didn't understand Huttese. The man looked over at his friend and they dropped the Mythrol to the ground before walking over to join him at the bar. The Quarren got behind Will and the other human got onto his left. "It's fine. It's on me."

The bartender quickly poured another drink as the male on Will's right decided to push his luck. "Is that real Beskar?" He took his knife and scraped it on Will's chest plate, making a scuff mark.

"Here!" the bartender placed the drink onto the bar and slid it down but Will grabbed it. He elbowed them all back before smashing the cup onto the head of the human on his right, then grabbing the face tendrils of the Quarren behind him and slamming his head into the bar. The man with the knife tried to attack with a lateral cut but Will easily blocked his arm, broke his wrist, and stabbed him in the side with his own knife before kneeing him in the back of the head. The man collapsed to the ground when Will saw the Quarren making a run for the door so he fired his grapple cable and snagged his legs. He pulled him back into the cantina as the Quarren took out his blaster and fired a shot that hit Will in the right shoulder pauldron. The Beskar easily took the hit so Will drew his WESTAR-35 blaster pistol and fired a stun bolt at the Quarren, knocking him out. He spun his blaster pistol on his index finger and slid it back into its holster with the whole ordeal over in a minute. Everyone was still shook by what just happened and how quickly it was over.

"Relax. Go back to your business." Will told them with his helmet giving him the typical Mandalorian voice filter which wasn't really a filter at all. It was just the speaker in his helmet accentuating his voice so it was a little louder than normal that way people could hear him. It did give it a bit of a gravely affect but nothing super different. Everyone in the bar resumed their business like nothing happened. Will looked at the bartender and could see he was nervous so he put some credits on the bar. "For the damages."

"Thank you. That's very generous." The bartender took the credits and used a rag to wipe down the bar. "How can I help you?"

"I need information. I'm looking for someone. Aurra Sing." Will slid some extra credits onto the table and the bartender took them.

"I know her but if you thought she'd be here then you're out of luck. She's off world. She was here not too long enough picking up some people for a job she had going on. Didn't say what it was." The bartender answered.

"Anything else?" Will slipped him some more credits.

"That whatever she had going on needed some extra bodies. One of them, a Klatooinian signed up with her but I can't remember his name to save my life. If you want information, try asking the Mythrol you just saved. He's in here everyday so he likely knows something that could help." The bartender told him so Will walked across the cantina to the table the Mythrol was sitting at. He was cleaning up the spilled drink and gathering up his credits from the table.

"Thank you, thank you very much. You have my heartfelt gratitude." The Mythrol said to the Mandalorian as he stared him down. "You know what? Here. You take my credits. Buy yourself a drink."

"I'd rather buy information." Will told him.

"Then how can I be of assistance?" The Mythrol asked, happy to be of service.

"The bounty hunter Aurra Sing. The bartender said she was here recently recruiting people for a job. Said there was a Klatooinian who joined up." Will said.

"Ah, yes. I remember that day. She came in here and instantly everyone got quiet just like when you arrived. Certain people have that affect." The Mythrol said but the lack of response and the blank stare of the helmet looking at him made him nervous. "Uh, his name was Castas. A fairly average bounty hunter but he complains a lot. Guess Aurra Sing was paying him good money."

"I need to find him and Sing. Any place they would go to?" Will asked and saw the Mythrol look over into another corner of the cantina.

"You see the Nautolan over there speaking to the Weequay?" the Mythrol wondered so Will did a subtle glance over and saw the two sitting at a table. "That's Fong do. He's a friend of Castas. He would know something although with your arrival I'm not sure he'd be willing to talk unless you start another fight."

"Good to know." Will slid him a few extra credits. "Stay out of trouble."

"Will do. Much appreciated." The Mythrol took the credits while Will walked over to a corner of the bar that had a good line of sight on Fang Do and the Weequay he was speaking to. He leaned against the wall and pulled down the rangefinder fob on his helmet which made his HUD zoom in on Fang Do. His rangefinder then isolated their conversation and cleaned it up so he could hear them.

"Florrum? A buddy of mine was just murdered on Florrum. Uh, yeah, he was working a big job. At least that is what he said. He was telling me he had some valuable information on a holotransmitter. And then boom! She shot him. It must have been some good dirt."

"What's her name? I hope it's not who I think it is."

"He was working with Aurra Sing. She's bad news."

"Ah, that's her, all right. She's the boss's ex. There's always trouble when she shows up."

"Yeah, that's the one."

[Blaster clicking]

"We don't like eavesdroppers here." A Weequay said as he aimed a blaster pistol at Will's head. He wasn't alone as a Rodian and a Ithorian also took out their blasters and were holding him at blaster point.

Fang Do and the Weequay he was talking to walked over, clueing Will to the fact that the two clearly ran with a group of associates. "We don't like spies here, Mandalorian." Fang Do warned him as he took out a pair of knives from his belt. "Now, who are you working for?"

"Lower your blasters and let me leave, I promise no harm will come to you." Will warned them and that just made Fang Do and his group chuckled.

"You Mandalorians must really like to bet with your lives." Fang Do joked.

"I don't bet." Will opened his hand so they could see a flash charge in his palm. It went off with a blinding light that made Fang Do and his gang shield their eyes in response. No one could see anything except for Will which was bad for them. The sizzle of some kind of plasma-based source was heard followed by the thuds of heavy impacts accompanied by grunts and groans of pain and anguish. When the bright light and temporary blindness finally abated the cantina patrons saw Fang Do and the others splayed out on the floor. Their blasters were cut in half and they were all groaning in pain, holding their heads or vital areas. They were still alive but in serious pain. "Next time you should choose your battles more wisely."

Will left one last bunch of credits on the table next to him to pay for the damages before walking out. He exited the cantina and walked down the street where he took a small speeder transport back to the main hub in the center of 1313. After a few minutes of transport, he arrived at the main hub for speeders on that level which is where Ahsoka and Master Plo Koon were waiting by the speeder they took from the Jedi Temple.

"You're back sooner then I thought and here I was thinking you would take forever. Mostly because I thought you would start a dozen fights in that Cantina." Ahsoka remarked as Will removed his helmet.

"I'll admit that things got a little tense but I handled it. No one knew it was me and no one is dead. Hurt, sure but not dead." Will promised.

"Considering your mood, I take it that you managed to get us a lead on Aurra Sing." Plo Koon said and he nodded in response.

"I did. She recruited a bounty hunter from that Cantina and I overhead she recently committed a murder on Florrum. That's where she is." He answered.

"Then we're going to Florrum." Plo Koon stated.

Line Break xxxxx

Florrum

Aurra Sing and Boba had arrived on Florrum with their hostages and received some hospitality from the Weequay pirate Hondo Ohnaka. He had a base on the planet and he and Sing had some history. He wasn't going to help them but he allowed them to stay and rest. Sing and Boba were in Hondo's office where the pirate commented on their daring plan against the Republic and the Jedi.

"Well, my dear, you are in an interesting predicament once again. Getting involved with the Jedi is never a good idea." Hondo warned her when Sing's commlink went off.

"Aurra, we've got an incoming ship. Corellian XS freighter." Bossk radioed in.

Hondo heard the make of the ship so he activated his scanner to get a visual. "Ah, I know that ship. Last time I saw it, it was in the hands of the Jedi." Hondo remarked.

"Windu." Boba stated.

"Finally. Took them long enough. Move Slave 1 to the outskirts and get the hostages ready." Sing ordered.

"Right." Bossk replied.

"So, are you in or not?" Sing asked Hondo as the pirate finished his cup of Sekarian ale.

"I will not help you, but I will not hinder you either. This is your fight, not mine." Hondo told her as they saw Slave 1 fly away.

The Tempest came out of hyperspace and flew down to the planet Florrum. Will was in the pilot seat with BD-8 in the droid socket while Plo Koon and Ahsoka were in the passenger seats in the cockpit. Will pulled a lever down to power down the hyperdrive and pressed a few switches to balance the shields and then diverted some extra power to the scanner. "All right, scanner array system up and running. Something already picked us up when we exited hyperspace. They know we're here." He told them.

"Then we could be walking into a trap." Ahsoka pointed out.

"If I were doing this I would plan for that eventually. They'll definitely have something planned for us down there." Will commented.

"Agreed which is why we'll need to set a trap of our own." Plo Koon told them.

"BD-8, keep monitoring the ship's scanners for anything abnormal, especially ship signatures. If I were doing this I wouldn't keep the hostages anywhere close." Will stated.

"Agreed. She's gonna want to keep the advantage and those hostages are her best play. Will, stay with the ship. Ahsoka and I will go inside to get Sing and Boba. If you get a lock on the hostages then you go after them." Plo Koon told them and they nodded in response.

Will piloted the Tempest down to the planet and landed in an open spot in Hondo's compound. Plo Koon and Ahsoka disembarked the ship from the ramp to see the place looked like a ghost town. Hondo must have ordered his men to stay inside or leave to avoid causing any problems. Speaking of the pirate, he walked over to greet them.

"Hello, hello, and welcome to Florrum." Hondo greeted and gestured them inside.

"I should assume you are walking us into a trap." Plo Koon stated.

"Yes you should. They're waiting inside the bar." Hondo answered. "I have no idea what she has planned for you."

"And the reason you are telling us is?" Plo Koon questioned.

"So, you know that I am not involved in this." Hondo answered.

"Remember, patience." Plo Koon said to Ahsoka before he walked in. The compound seemed to be empty but it likely wasn't, probably just Hondo ordering his men to stay out of the area. Plo Koon walked into the bar where he saw Aurra Sing sitting by herself at a table so he walked over and sat down.

"Bad move, Jedi. This will cost you." Sing warned him as Boba appeared behind Plo Koon with a blaster pistol aimed at the back of his head.

"I wanted Windu. What are you doing here?" Boba questioned.

"We can do this the difficult way or the simple way. The choice is yours." Plo Koon said to Sing so she tapped her ear comm.

"Bossk. Can you hear me?" She radioed.

"Roger."

"Execute the hostages if I give the word." She ordered when the comm link in Plo Koon's ear buzzed.

"Master, my scanners intercepted the comm channel Aurra Sing used and BD-8 tracked its location to a few kilometers southwest. I'm on my way there now." Will radioed as he put on his helmet and grabbed his solarboard. BD-8 climbed onto his back and the two left the Tempest to find the hostages so Plo Koon needed to buy them time.

"That is an unwise decision. You have already lost and you don't even know it." Plo Koon informed her.

"I am prepared to kill you, the hostages, whatever it takes to get what Boba wants." Sing declared.

"Sounds more like what you want." Plo Koon pointed out as Ahsoka came from behind Sing and used her saber to slice the commlink antennae in her head. She then grabbed her from behind with her saber at her throat.

Boba raised his blaster closer to Plo Koon's head but Ahsoka just moved her saber closer. "Don't."

"Let her go!" Boba ordered.

"No chance."

"She won't do it, Boba. She's not like you." Sing assured him.

"She's right. I'm not a murderer." Ahsoka said to Boba.

"I'm not a murderer. But I want justice." Boba stated.

"We are justice." Plo Koon said.

"Don't list to them." Sing said to Boba.

"No one will be harmed if you come quietly. We can end this without anymore bloodshed." Plo Koon offered.

Sing motioned Boba to pull the trigger but he hesitated. "I can't let you die."

"You won't have to." Sing assured him, readying the spike trap on her boot. She gave him a wink so he fired a blast at Ahsoka. Ahsoka blocked it giving Aurra the chance to elbow her back and fire the spikes form her boot but Plo Koon smashed the table down in front of him for protection. Sing took out her pistols and fired a continuous barrage that Ahsoka managed to block before Plo Koon force pushed the table into the path to protect her. Plo Koon then charged forward and sliced her guns in two.

"It's over. Surrender!" Plo Koon warned her.

"Aurra, now!" Boba tossed an explosive charge onto the ground.

"Bomb!" Ahsoka, Plo Koon, and Sing ran for cover with the later quickly getting up and heading to the exit.

"Boba, hurry!" Sing shouted as she ran but Plo Koon grabbed the boy.

"Aurra, help me!" Boba pleaded but she saw he was out of his reach and she couldn't do anything so she ran and left him behind. "Aurra, no!"

Ahsoka chased after Sing to capture her while Plo Koon kept watch over the boy. Sing got onto a speeder and raced away with Ahsoka following behind. While Sing led her away, her associate Bossk was watching over the two hostages near Slave-1.

"Aurra. Aurra?! Come in?" Bossk tried to raise her on the comm but all he got was static. "Bad news boys. If I don't here from her soon then I'm gone and you're both fried."

That's when Bossk and the hostages heard the roar of a speeder only to see a solarboard fly off the canyon walls towards them. The blasters on the front of the solarboard fired at Bossk and he dove for cover as it then drifted to a stop and Will flipped into the air and cut the two hostages free with his lightsaber. Bossk grabbed his blaster rifle and took aim only for Will to slice off his right arm.

"ARGH!" Bossk held his stump in pain while Will kicked the rifle over to Admiral Kilian and held his saber to the Trandoshan's face.

"Give me a reason and your head comes off next." Will warned him. Despite the pain and shame of losing his arm, Bossk knew he was at a disadvantage.

"Mando, Aurra's heading your way! Watch out!" Ahsoka radioed and he heard the engine roar of a speeder bike.

"Get down!" Will ordered Admiral Kilian and the clone as Sing flew off the canyon like he did and shot at him with the speeder biker's blasters. Will quickly adopted Form-3 and used the Soresu form to block and deflect the rapid-fire volley from the speeder bike. This kept him, Admiral Kilian, and the clone from getting hit but was a distraction which is exactly what Sing wanted. She steered her speeder bike at them and bailed at the last possible second. Will used Force Stasis to freeze the bike in place so it didn't run him over but before he could try to stop Sing she threw several flash and explosive charges down. He tackled Admiral Kilian and the clone away as the explosives went off giving Sing the time to run into Slave-1 and get out. Thankfully, Ahsoka appeared as she flew off the canyon like Sing did just as the ship hovered into he air. "AHSOKA!"

Will waved over and held his braced his arms together as Ahsoka jumped off the speeder bike and landed on his arms. He then lifted her up and she used the momentum to jump high into the air and landed on the wing of Slave-1. She activated her saber and quickly cut through the beam that held the wing in place causing the ship to spin out of control. Ahsoka landed on the cockpit and tried to get Sing but quickly jumped off when Sing tried to blast her. The ship spun out of control and crashed in the distance.

"That takes care of that." Ahsoka said as Will radioed to Plo Koon.

"Master, we secured another bounty hunter and rescued the hostages." Will informed him.

"Excellent. We're on our way to you." Plo Koon replied.

Will restrained Bossk and BD-8 gave the two hostages a healing stim each which helped them until they could be checked out by medical professionals. A few minutes later, the Tempest hovered down and they walked in.

"BD-8, set course for Coruscant." He told him and the small droid nodded. He climbed down his shoulder and headed to the bridge. Will walked into the ship and saw Boba handcuffed to the table in the main area and felt bad for the kid so he decided to say something. "Ahsoka, take Bossk to the cargo hold."

"Got it." Ahsoka took Bossk away with the clone officer coming to provide additional security.

Boba sat at the table with his hands cuffed and restrained so he couldn't escape. Even if he could he had no idea where to go or what to do. This was all he was focused on and now that it was gone…he didn't feel any better and felt more alone then ever.

"Here…" Boba saw a carton of Blumfruit juice placed down in front of him. Boba looked up and saw a Mandalorian in armor looking at him. "Blumfruit juice helped me through some tough times."

"You're working for the Jedi?" Boba asked in disbelief wondering why a Mandalorian of all people would work for the Jedi. He remembered from his father that his people had a bad history with them.

Will removed his helmet so he could see his face and then removed his saber from his belt. "I am a Jedi but I'm also a Mandalorian. My mother was Mandalorian like your father."

"So, what? Are you here to tell me what a mistake I made? That I'm getting what I deserve?" Boba spat out in discontent.

"No. I'm sure you've already heard all that and will likely hear it for a while. You don't need that." He said to Boba and sat down across from him. He felt the ship take off the ground so BD-8 must be piloting them back to Coruscant. "I get you wanted justice for what happened to your father. And in some ways I can sympathize with that but the way you went about it was wrong."

"Windu killed my father. I deserve justice for what he did." Boba said in anger.

"I get that but it's not like he assassinated your father for no reason. Jango Fett chose to work with Count Dooku and the Separatists. He chose a side and it was only ever going to end two ways for everyone eventually. Your father's time just so happened to come sooner then everyone else's but I imagine he was ready when it did. If Jango was anything like the other Mandalorians he's worked with then he knew that eventually the tide could turn against him." Will pointed out. "Look, Boba I know how it feels to lose someone you love. I've lost a parent as well and after, all I felt was sadness and anger. At times it felt easier to just embrace all that anger and focused it onto something to make the pain go away but that relief is temporary and soon it'll come back. You'll just end up repeating the cycle over and over again. Aurra Sing probably knew that which is why she pushed you so hard."

"Why should I listen to you?! You don't know me and you definitely don't know her!" Boba told him.

"True but I know people who do and all they've said is that Sing is good at killing and only cares about getting paid. She's someone who is willing to do whatever it takes to complete a job no matter what lines have to be crossed. And she's someone with zero loyalty considering how she left you behind." Will pointed out and Boba lowered his gaze. "I even spoke with a Mandalorian who worked with Jango and he said that he only kept Sing around because she was good at her job but not someone he could completely trust. She's may have cared about you a little but likely she only cared about what this job could do for her."

Boba sighed in despair. "I'm all alone."

"Look Boba…I know things have been hard and I'm going to be honest it'll only get harder."

"I just want my life back." Boba muttered.

"I can't give you that. Life is gonna throw a lot of obstacles your way. After my mother passed away I wanted nothing more then to have her and my old life back but there wasn't anything I or anyone else could do to fix that." Will admitted. "Maybe when the war is over you'll be able to get out and have another shot at life. I hope so but it's not going to be easy. Nothing ever is…but your ability to get through it as it gets harder…that is going to be a hundred times more powerful then just wallowing in your anger and letting it consume you. Making a fresh start…it's not easy. No one can give you your life back. You need to make the best with what you've been dealt."

Boba just sat in silence before taking the container of Blumfruit juice and drinking some of it. Will said all he could say and just hoped it would be enough. He grabbed his helmet and gave Boba a pat on the head before heading to the bridge. He walked passed Plo Koon in the passenger seat and sat down in his chair.

"How did your conversation with the boy go?" Plo Koon questioned.

"As well as expected. Don't worry. I'm not condoning what he did but I felt it necessary to at least say something considering what he must be feeling." Will replied.

"I never doubted your position or your beliefs. I'm questioning if your words would have an effect on the boy." Plo Koon corrected him. "I imagine you and he would share a certain kinship if circumstances were different but your paths diverged a long time ago."

"The kid's life was never going to end up easy. I'm just wondering if there's anything else we can do to make sure he doesn't dive down a deeper hole." He wondered.

"Anger and vengeance are dark pits that can trap even the strongest of individuals. That boy witnessed his father's death with his own eyes and since then his anger has been forged into iron. Something that Sing saw and took advantage of and her abandonment cuts an even deeper wound. I'm not sure if there's much anyone could do to help him but take heart, Padawan. In this war it's been made abundantly clear that we can't save everyone." Plo Koon told him and Will nodded.

"Does it ever get any easier?"

"It never does." Plo Koon spoke from experience and the tone of his voice showed that while it was something he had come to terms with it wasn't easy.

Coruscant

After a short flight, the Tempest arrived on Coruscant and landed at the Republic Judiciary Central Detention center. It was a high-security prison with a large panopticon of cells for high-risk prisoners. Boba wasn't exactly a high-risk prisoner but considering he and Bossk attacked a Republic Star Destroyer then the chargers were serious. A clone squad met them and provided escort detail for Bossk and Boba as they were taken off the ship by Plo Koon, Ahsoka, and Will. They walked over to the detention center where Anakin and Mace Windu were waiting. Windu was there so Boba could finally confront the man who killed his father. Boba walked over in cuffs and Windu knelt down so he could say his mind.

"I see now I've done terrible things, but you started it when you murdered my father. I'll never forgive you." Boba said to Windu and Will sighed, seeing that the kid didn't really take his advice.

"Hmm…well, you're going to have to. Take him away." Windu ordered so Boba and Bossk were taken into captivity. Boba looked back at Will before turning around and heading into the prison.

"You ok, Mando?" Ahsoka asked him.

"I'm fine. It's just…I have a feeling." He admitted.

"About what?" Plo Koon wondered.

"That this isn't the last time we'll see Boba Fett." He said as the doors to the prison closed. He was right. Boba Fett was gone for now but he would see him again.

Line Break xxxxx

Coruscant Republic Army Dockyards, The Negotiator

Inside the training room of the Venator-class Star Destroyer The Negotiator a group of the 212th attack battalion were having a training session while their division was on planet before their next deployment. Said company of the 212th attack battalion was Ghost Company under the command of Jedi Commander Will Vizsla. Thanks to his leadership and training along with the help of Arc Troopers Fives, Echo, and Hevy it was one of the best trained companies of Clones in the Galactic Republic. And now they were getting even more training thanks the Mandalorian Defenders.

While Will had been confined to the temple for training and self-reflection he didn't want Gar, Bo-Katan and the others to feel trapped on planet so he introduced them to Qi'ra. Along with fostering a new relationship for them, it was something that could keep them busy while he was at the temple. Qibbu's various operations helped provide valuable resources and intel to the Republic including the Jedi which is why they tended to turn a blind eye to his more illegal rackets like gambling, loansharking, and protection rackets. But Qibbu never dealt in the really bad things like slavery or spice. He was a Hutt but surprisingly a Hutt that was more then comfortable to make money with legitimate business ventures. The Mandalorians were paid with credits and were able to use their skills to good use. With the war going on, it meant the Jedi were too focused on fighting the war to handle the criminal element in the galaxy. Various bandits, pirates, and criminal organizations were using the chaos brought on by the Clone wars to do what they did best. Some of them had gone after some of Qibbu's operations including trying to rob his freighters or attacking his other establishments around Coruscant and on other planets. They hadn't been successful yet but thankfully Qibbu and Qi'ra now had some new protection. Will had Gar contact the Mandalorian clans in the Mandalore system and he explained the opportunity he was offering. Not only was it a valued relationship and pay but it was also a way for them to be active and use their talent and skills against bad people.

Pretty much all of them were up for it. Clans Vizsla, Wren, Eldar, Saxon, Ordo, Beroya, Beviin, Rook, and Bralor got to suit up and show some wannabe pirates, bandits, and criminal organizations that the Mandalorians were still around. They protected Qibbu's interests, establishments, and profitable organizations in several sectors and provided protection for his various shipping lanes. It wasn't the same as fighting a war against the Republic but it got them to fight and they were doing it against a bad element. A group of warriors from Clan Beroya and Bralor took out an entire pirate crew of three freighters that tried to rob a supply shipment and after speaking with them Will could tell they were happy to be fighting and they enjoyed showing those pirates and bandits Mandalorian justice. Gar Saxon, Bo-Katan and Ursa Wren even led Mandalorian Defenders down into the deeper depths of Coruscant to take out a group of the Black Suns that were trying to move in on Qibbu's businesses and extort him and the people. Qibbu was happy, Qi'ra was thankful, and the Mandalorians efforts actually made parts of Coruscant and the sectors that Qibbu ran his business a lot safer.

Not only were the Mandalorian Warrior clans helping Qi'ra and Qibbu but Will also gave them the task of keeping their ears to the ground for any intel or movements of the Separatists or bad elements out there working against Mandalore or the Republic. It wasn't the Mandalorians of old but now the work of the Mandalorian Defenders. The name might need some work though.

Gar Saxon, Bo Katan, and a few other of the Mandalorians were training the clones of Ghost Company to help make them a better fighting force. Arc Troopers Fives, Echo, and Hevy along with the Mandalorians were taking the clones through some close quarter combat drills and new blaster tactics. Ahsoka was there to watch since she was bored but also because she was enjoying the sight of seeing Will trying to master his jetpack. Like the Mandalorian armorer told him, he needed to train with the jetpack if he really wanted to use it to its full potential. Unfortunately, the training at the Jedi temple didn't really cover the use of a jetpack which is where the Mandalorians came in.

Ahsoka chuckled to herself as she saw Will hover in the air above them. He was only about a few meters off the ground considering they were inside a Star Destroyer. She couldn't help but chuckle as she saw him move cautiously around in the air. He had his arms out to the side like he was holding the air to steady himself as he slowly moved around in the air and tried to get a feel for the movements with the jetpack. He ended up quickly boosting to the side which caught him off guard and Ahsoka couldn't help but laugh.

"Easy with the booster jets when your in hover mode." Bo Katan told him.

"Right." He replied as he moved around in the air a bit better without pushing too much on the boosters. He then cut off the engine and landed on the ground.

"Not bad but your landing could use some work there, Mando." Ahsoka joked.

"Nice jokes but let's see you try this and how quickly you get the hang of it." Will pointed out as he pressed a button on his vambrace which disengaged the magnetic lock of his jetpack so he could take if off. He then removed his helmet and placed both on a crate.

"Oh, please how hard could it be."

"Surprisingly challenging. It's not exactly something you instantly pick up if you're not used to it." He pointed out. "Not to mention you have to deal with the fact that if something happens to the jetpack you run the risk of it slamming you into the ground or exploding."

"All the more reason why I'm good without one." Ahsoka stated.

"Me too but learning to use it isn't a horrible idea. And when the day comes when you end up falling off the edge of a cliff and I end up rescuing you with my jetpack then I'll be ready for your apology." Will told her.

"Yeah, don't bet on that." Ahsoka remarked. "How are things with your company?"

"Good. Their training is getting better and it's making them better soldiers so this time to train is great but I know they don't mind if our rotation here ends soon. I know the men have been itching to get back out there." Will replied.

"And when you go back out there you plan on taking your Mandalorian Defenders with you?" Ahsoka wondered.

"That's up to them. I told them before that I wouldn't force them to do anything they wouldn't want." He stated.

"Some of them would be ok with that." Gar said as he and Bo Katan walked over. The clones took a small break from the training and got some water. "Working with Qibbu has been fine but we wouldn't mind being out and using our skills in other ways."

"Are you all right with that? I told everyone before I wouldn't force them to fight for the Republic and I meant that. Don't think you have to do this because you don't." Will assured them.

"We know. To be honest, many of us have thought that you would have immediately forced us to join the forces of the Republic and fight the Separatists." Bo Katan pointed out. "With the Darksaber all you would need to do is give the order and we'd be ready to fight."

"That's what my uncle would do but I'm not him. I'm not forcing anyone to fight. However, if you're willing to use your skills to assist there might be ways for you to help. Protecting Republic assets is one thing and training the clones is another. There are Mandalorians who train and lead squads of Clone Commandos and they're some of the best the Republic has to offer. I should introduce you to Kal Skirata. I think that would be an interesting meeting." Will pointed out. "Are any of you good pilots?"

"I'm pretty good behind a starfighter. And Rook Kast is one of the best pilots we have." Gar told him.

"Then maybe we could get you to train some of the clone pilots. Space superiority would be good. And if a situation arises when I'll need more specialized help I'll be sure to let you all know so you can get some action. Mandalorians are great warriors but you'd be wasted in a typical battle. Using you as special groups makes the most sense." Will said and they agreed with that.

"You've given this some thought." Bo Katan pointed out.

"Had to do something while I was stuck at the temple and you were busy with Qibbu, Bo." He answered.

"Mando, I have a question." Ahsoka said to him.

"Sure, what is it?" Will asked as he grabbed his canteen and took a sip of water.

"Where did your mother get the name, Will? I mean, from what you've told me it's not exactly a name I thought she would give you. You said her name was Pio Vizsla, your uncle is Pre Vizsla and you mentioned a Paz Vizsla. Your mother didn't want to continue the tradition of names starting with P?" Ahsoka joked and it earned some chuckles.

"My mother called me Will to help me better fit in on Coruscant. Said it would be easier if I had something that sounded more like I was born in the Inner Rim." He explained and it made sense. If his mother were fleeing to Coruscant to start a new life helping her son to fit in by giving him a different name would make sense.

"Well, since you're leading the Mandalorian Defenders maybe you should have a Mandalorian name?" Ahsoka suggested. "It could come in handy like if you ever need to go undercover again like you did at that Cantina. You can use your Mandalorian name there."

"That's not a bad idea, sir." Fives agreed.

"So, what name would it be?" Bo-Katan wondered.

"When I was younger my mother always did say that if things were different she would have given me the name Prax. It's an old Mando'a name meaning Noble Heart." Will recounted.

"Prax Vizsla…that could work." Ahsoka quipped.

"Pardon me." They turned and saw Obi-wan standing there. "Sorry to interrupt this little discussion but I need a moment with my Padawan."

"Sure thing. Gar, Bo, take over the training." Will told them and they nodded. He grabbed his helmet and walked over to his master with BD-8 following and climbing onto his shoulder.

"Your new associates seem to be fitting in well." Obi-wan remarked.

"Did you half expect them to be tense, trigger happy fighters eager to get into battle?" Will wondered and Obi-wan chuckled a bit. "While I was confined to the temple for my training and self-reflection I made sure to keep Gar and the others busy by introducing them to Qibbu and Qi'ra. They've been good sources of intel for us but with the war going on they need some help that we're too busy to lend so I introduced a third party."

"It's true that with the war going on some of our normal duties have been affected. Qi'ra has been helpful to us in the past and we may need her assistance again in the future so her goodwill with the Jedi is a good thing. When we have time I should introduce you to a contact we have on Ord Mantell. Perhaps your Mandalorians can be of assistance to her." Obi-wan suggested.

"I'm sure they'd be fine with that. Qibbu's kept them busy with protecting his shipping lanes from pirates and bandits. I even heard they eased some areas down in the Coruscant Underworld and made them a bit safer when the Black Suns tried to move in." Will said and Obi-wan was impressed. "Not only that but I've told them to keep their ears to the ground incase they hear anything going on about the Separatists or anything going on with Mandalore space."

"You've actually come upon the subject I wanted to discuss with you." Obi-wan said as they arrived on the bridge that was currently being refitted and undergoing maintenance while the ship was docked. "I received word from Senator Amidala. She recently returned from a diplomatic trip to Mandalore on Duchess Satine's invitation. I'm afraid that her planet has been suffering from a different kind of problem with the war going on. The hyperspaces lanes to her system are unsecure and Mandalore is need of desperate supplies. They've had to turn to the black market for help but the greed and corruption that has been born from this conflict has grown strong."

"I figured. With the war going on and the Separatists on the move the amount of secure hyperspace lanes must be getting shorter and shorter. And in desperation, people tend to throw their morals out the window if they think it'll give them power or money. How can we help?" Will asked him.

"Senator Amidala spoke with Master Yoda. She said that Duchess Satine thinks a Jedi going undercover on Mandalore might be able to help her with the problems on Mandalore. Not only in exposing the corruption and greed but also helping to teach the next generation to not fall into that cycle of destruction. Master Yoda felt the situation would better be handled by a Padawan who is closer in age to the students so they assigned Ahsoka to the mission. But the way the war has been going on we can't spare any Jedi Knights to go with her so I'm sending you as well." Obi-wan told him. "You're the oldest and will be in command. Ahsoka will be put undercover at the academy while you will assist Duchess Satine in her investigation. Find out what's going on and help her stop it."

"Any particular reason you want her to teach and me to do the investigating?" Will wondered.

"I felt that your skills would be better suited to figuring out the problem. And Ahsoka's skillset is better suited to a school setting then you are." Obi-wan replied. "Your knowledge and experience with Qi'ra makes you better suited to investigating the cause of what's going on. That and your knack of adapting to situations on the fly means you're better at thinking on your feet should something happen."

"Not gonna argue with that." Will remarked when Obi-wan put his hand on his shoulder.

"Be careful, Will. Even Duchess Satine doesn't know how deep her planet's corruption could go. You could be walking into a trap the second you get there so be careful." Obi-wan warned him.

"I will, Master. Tell Senator Amidala that Ahsoka and I will be leaving at once." He said and Obi-wan nodded.

"Best of luck and may the force be with you." Obi-wan said before he departed. Will stayed there for a bit to think over the situation. Mandalore wasn't unique in its problems being corruption and greed. And the war was making trade with the planet harder, especially since Mandalore relied on trade for nearly everything including food. With the war making their hyperspace lanes too dangerous to travel for trade they needed a new lifeline and that's when he got an idea so he called a friend.

Line Break xxxxx

A world in Crisis. The peaceful planet of Mandalore is being strangled by the grip of corruption. With shortages of every kind, citizens must turn to the black market in order to survive. Desperate to free her people, Duchess Satine has asked her friend Padme Amidala to speak with the Jedi Council in hopes that they will send assistance to her struggling world.

Mandalore Space

The Tempest exited hyperspace and entered Mandalore Space. Will was piloting his ship with BD-8 plugged into the droid socket while Ahsoka was in the passenger seat. He powered down the hyperdrive when their communication system was pinged and a Fang-class starfighter flew alongside the Tempest.

"Attention Tempest, this is Fenn Rau, leader of the Mandalorian Protectors."

"Fenn Rau, this is Will Vizsla, pilot of the Tempest and Padawan of the Jedi order." Will radioed back.

"Wasn't expecting to see you back here again anytime soon with how I heard how things went last time." Fenn Rau admitted.

"Believe me, you're not the only one. But Duchess Satine asked Senator Amidala to send assistance to Mandalore and we're it." Will told him.

"Ah. So, things really are that bad in Sundari. And you really think you can help?" Fenn Rau questioned.

"We're willing to do everything we can to try." Will promised. "And sometimes that happens to be enough. Things tend to have a habit of working out for me that way but if Mandalore is hurting then I'm prepared to help however I can."

There was a moment with no response, making Will and Ahsoka wonder if he said something wrong. "Fair enough. There's only so much my Protectors and I can do. Maybe you Jedi can do something we can't."

"Duchess Satine thinks so. Let's hope she's right." Will muttered as the Tempest and the Fang Fighter flew to Mandalore.

"Let's pray to Manda'lore she's right. You know, I have to admit. That's a pretty impressive ship for a Jedi. Not exactly something I expected you to fly." Fenn Rau remarked.

"The Tempest may be unorthodox but she's fast, maneuverable and can hold her own in a fight. And no one can fly her like I can." Will boasted as they neared the planet. "Thanks for the escort Rau. We'll do everything we can to help the Duchess. Next time we speak, remind me to bring up a possible job for you and your Protectors. If Mandalorian pilots are ace fighters then maybe you and some of your best wouldn't mind giving some clone pilots some lessons."

"Heh-heh. Sounds like fun. Next time. And if you find the people responsible for what's going on…make sure you stop them." Fenn Rau told them.

"That's the plan." Will assured him as Fenn Rau's Fang Fighter pulled away while the Tempest continued to the planet surface.

"Making new friends already?" Ahsoka wondered.

"Can't have too many, Ace. Especially where we're going. We're gonna have eyes on us the second we land so be ready, Ahsoka. We have no idea how deep of a snake pit we could be walking into." He pointed out. "To pull off what Senator Amidala told us about requires some serious reach and power."

"You don't think the Duchess has anything to do with this, do you?" Ahsoka wondered.

"No, not a chance. I've met her. She's a true believer in Mandalore's neutrality and peace. She's got an durasteel constitution so she would never do something like this to her own people. But the people working for her? That's another story and something I'm gonna have to get to the bottom of." He told her.

"I still don't get why you get to go investigate while I'm stuck at the academy. Don't you think I'm a little bit overqualified to be a teacher?" Ahsoka pointed out.

"According to Senator Amidala, Mandalore has become a deeply corrupt world. If the cycle is to be broken, the future leaders at the Royal Academy of Government must learn the evils of corruption. Master Yoda feels that only a young Padawan like us can get through to them. And since we're not from the planet he thinks our words may carry more weight." Will answered. "And considering what happened the last time I was here, I don't think the Duchess would be ok with me teaching that class."

"What happened?" Ahsoka asked.

"Things got complicated."

"I'm guessing that's an understatement."

Will piloted the ship down to the capital city of Sundari which was the largest domed city on Mandalore and parked the ship at an empty spot on the docking yards. Waiting for them were the Duchess, her guard of Mandalorian Protectors, Prime Minster Almec, and some of the students from the Royal Academy. "My lady if I may, what do the Jedi know of our ways? Do we really want them meddling with our children's education?" Prime Minster Almec questioned.

"Surely there is nothing to fear from exposing them to new ideas, Prime Minister." Duchess Satine told him as Will and Ahsoka walked out of the ship. BD-8 followed and climbed up onto Will's shoulders. Will's appearance in his Mandalorian armor drew some concern but Satine motioned her guards to relax. The two Padawans walked over to the Duchess with Will removing his helmet. "Duchess Satine, Prime Minister Almec." Will greeted them.

"Padawan Vizsla, it is good to see you again." Satine said to him.

"Likewise, Duchess. Allow me to introduce Ahsoka Tano. She will be assisting me during our stay on Mandalore." Will said and Ahsoka stepped forward.

"Duchess. Prime Minister." Ahsoka greeted them.

"I am grateful that the Jedi Council could spare the two of you to instruct our leaders and peacekeepers of tomorrow. Please thank Master Yoda for me." The Duchess said and Will nodded. "Is Master Kenobi perchance here with you?"

"I'm afraid not. Due to our limited resources both he and Ahsoka's master are needed in battle but rest assured that Padawan Tano and I are more than capable of assisting and have the full confidence of the Jedi Council." He explained.

"Very well. Cadet Korkie, Amis, Lagos." Prime Minister called out the names and three young students stepped forward. "These are some of the cadets that you will be instructing."

"Nice to meet all of you." Ahsoka greeted them.

"That's a fine weapon." Cadet Korkie referred to their lightsabers. "May I see it?"

"I'm afraid not. Because of Master Kenobi's recent visit and the trouble that followed, I'm afraid no off-worlders may carry weapons on Mandalore." Prime Minister Almec told them.

"Master Obi-wan caused trouble? That's a first." Ahsoka remarked.

"I told you things got complicated." Will removed his lightsaber and the Darksaber from his belt as BD-8 climbed down his shoulder. "Here, BD-8. Take these to the ship and lock them away."

BD-8 nodded as Will placed his two sabers onto BD-8's head with Ahsoka adding on hers. Once he had all three the little droid scampered away back to the Tempest. "Your other weapons as well." The Prime Minister told him as a Mandalorian Protector came over with a secure lock box he could use to stash away his weapons.

Will took out his WESTAR-35 Blaster pistol and placed it into the box before pressing a button on his vambrace so the whistling birds were dumped out of the launcher. He pressed another button on his other vambrace and carefully removed the rocket to place into the box. He removed the pouch from his belt containing the extras along with flash, stun, and explosive charges on his belt. The retractable blade from his vambrace was taken out along with the small fuel pod for the flamethrower and then he unspooled the grapple cable.

"Geez, Mando. How much did you have?" Ahsoka remarked as Will closed the box and took the key.

"I know everything that's in there." Will warned the guard in case he tried something.

"Thank you for respecting our ways, Padawan." Duchess Satine said as BD-8 returned and climbed up onto Will's shoulder, telling him that he secured their lightsabers away. Will pressed a button on his vambrace and the Tempest went into lockdown. This way they made sure no one tried to sneak on.

Ahsoka was taken to the Royal Academy of Government where she quickly began instructing her glass on governance, the dangers of corruption, greed and the people's responsibility to keep their leaders honest and in check. Will meanwhile was escorted with Duchess Satine to her office. "That will be all, Prime Minister." Duchess Satine told him as she and Will walked into her office.

"Duchess, are you sure—"

"That will be all." Satine assured him so the Prime Minister nodded and left. "Leave us."

Her Protectors nodded and left the room, shutting the door as they did. "Not sure how your men would feel with you here by yourself." Will pointed out as he removed his helmet.

"Their fears are unwarranted and in fact I've set up this meeting between the two of us because I fear that the people I can trust is getting smaller every day." Duchess Satine told him.

"I read Senator Amidala's report when she was here on Mandalore." He said.

"I'm afraid it doesn't do our situation justice. With the war it would seem that the principles of New Mandalore are falling to the wayside in favor of corruption and greed. My own heads of Commerce and Trade were complicit in a black market deal with Mugen Smugglers that resulted in children getting sick." Satine said in despair before looking at Will. "It would seem that you were right that I do not have the situation at hand. You must feel a sense of satisfaction knowing you were right."

"This isn't something I would take pride in, Duchess and my words to you the last time we spoke were out of concern, never malice or anger. But I also promised that I would help Mandalore if something were to ever happen. All you need to do is ask. How can I help?" Will asked and the Duchess was glad to hear that.

"While the corrupt officials behind the incident with the Mugen smugglers have been dealt with I fear that it was just the surface of the corruption on Mandalore. If even my heads of Commerce and Trade were complicit in this kind of corruption then others have to be as well but have slunk back into the shadows. I can only do so much without them noticing which is where you can help." Satine handed him several data pads along with an access key. "The data pads have all the information regarding trade and the business of Mandalore and the access key will give you access to various parts of Mandalore for your investigation under my authority."

"This is a lot of trust you're giving an off-worlder." Will pointed out.

"Desperate times makes for desperate measures. Be discreet. And thank you." Duchess Satine said to him.

"You can thank me after we get to the bottom of this." Will walked out of the Duchess's office. The Protectors stood aside and let him leave. He would have headed to the Royal Academy of Government where Ahsoka was teaching as they were also going to be staying there at a vacant room. That had a benefit as being in a school meant the amount of eyes that could watch them were limited compared to if they stayed at a regular residence. But Will decided to see someone else first before going there so after asking around he managed to find his way to Sundari's prison. At first he was denied entry since he was an off-worlder but after showing the prison guards the pass he received from Duchess Satine he was allowed in.

He was escorted through the prison until he reached the high-security section in the deepest and most secure section of the building. These cells contained the most high-risk criminals but there weren't many of them on Mandalore except for one. Will walked past the wall of cells until he stopped at one in particular holding his uncle, Pre Vizsla. The former leader of Death Watch was dressed in the grey and white prison standards of Mandalorian prisoners with the right arm of his shirt cut off, showing the mechanical prosthetic that replaced the arm he lost in his fight with Will. It was a fairly simple one made by and controlled by the prison so if he tried to use it to escape or fight then it'd deliver a full body electric shock and deactivate.

Pre Vizsla looked at the Mandalorian standing there outside his cell in his white and light blue armor. A part of him thought it may be one of his Mandalorian commandos until he removed his helmet so he could see it was his nephew.

"At the very least you wear your armor with pride. Perhaps you're not as far gone as I thought you were." Pre Vizsla remarked.

"Uncle. You seem to be doing well. I like the new arm." Will quipped as Pre Vizsla moved his new prosthetic around. "I imagine despite your efforts in taking over Mandalore that Duchess Satine is making sure you're still well taken care of."

"Locked in a prison cell for while given an hour for recreation a day. The food isn't that bad when they actually have food to spare…which I imagine is why you're here." Pre Vizsla pointed out. "Your peace loving Duchess can't keep her own planet feed, can she?"

"Logistics during wartime is hard, uncle. Our people knew that during their many wars throughout the years." Will reminded him. "Can you say for certain that Mandalore would be fairing any better if you were in charge?"

"I would never let our planet come to this kind of condition." Pre Vizsla declared.

"Fighting a war and leading a group of warriors is one thing but ruling a planet and making sure your people are fed and safe is another. It's something that past Mandalorians who followed your path failed to understand." Will told him.

"Here it comes. The brainwashing the Jedi and Republic put you through when you were at such a young age. So much so that you sided with those peace-loving Bantha fodder that need the Jedi to help them."

"It's not weakness to ask for help, Uncle. If anything, it shows greater strength and resolve to admit ones shortcomings. I truly hoped that sometime of reflection would be able to help you but clearly it hasn't helped you yet." Will remarked. "Know this, Uncle. I don't despise or hate you."

"How very Jedi of you." Pre Vizsla remarked.

"You are still family, uncle and nothing will change that but I had to stop you before you dived into another cycle of violence that would have brought death, destruction, and ruin onto thousands if not millions. You were so eager to try and reclaim the long-lost past of Mandalore that you let yourself become a pawn to Count Dooku." Will chastised him. "But it's over and Death Watch is no more. Every one of your commandos and the clans won't rise up against Mandalore and no one will come to break you out."

"Only to be puppets of the Republic. It won't be long before they tire of that." Pre Vizsla declared.

"You're wrong, uncle. I'm not you. I may agree with the Duchess's plans for peace and wanting a new start but I also disagree with other aspects of her rule. Throwing away everything Mandalore was to achieve peace is questionable but so are your actions. Clearly you're not a student of history because if you were then you would never have worked with Dooku." Will said in disappointment.

"What do you know of Mandalore's history? It was the Jedi and the Republic that have brought disaster to Mandalore." Pre Vizsla reminded him.

"And it was the Mandalorians who decided to side with the Sith Empire countless times during the age of the Old Republic. You claim that Mandalorians are proud warriors yet they sided with the Sith who care nothing about honor in combat and only obsess over power and control. Every time something bad happened to Mandalore it was because of our aggressive and senseless actions in siding with the Sith that led us to ruin over and over again. And you were prepared to do the same thing with Dooku. And in case you forgot, Mandalore wasn't always against the Republic. Canderous Ordo took up the title of Mandalore the Preserver after siding with the Jedi Knight Revan and the Republic against the Sith Empire. That was a time of peace and prosperity for the Mandalorians until another warmonger tried to reclaim the glories of old and restarted the old cycle. A cycle I'm trying to break." Will declared. "My mother often told me stories of what she had done in the past. The good and the bad our people had committed and spoke of the shame she had to live with because of her past actions. She raised me to be different and to be better while you decided to stay in your ways. A hardline extremist of an terrorist cult."

"And what are you then?" Pre Vizsla questioned.

"Trying to be better. I'm not perfect and I've admitted this much to the warrior clans when I gathered them. I had to fight and show them that I wasn't going to make them blindly follow me or the Republic and that's true. They follow me now of their own free will, not because they believe in the Republic but because they believe me when I told them that I just wanted what was best for them. A way forward that won't have us repeat the mistakes of the past." Will declared. "I just wish you could have seen that too, uncle."

Having nothing else to say to his uncle, Will left. Pre Vizsla just sat there in his cell, left with nothing to do but think.

Line Break xxxxx

Mandalore

Will and Ahsoka were resting in their room at the Royal Academy of Government after a day of their jobs. Ahsoka imparted her wisdom onto the next generation of Mandalorian politicians and leaders and she thought she did some good work. Changing the minds of the future leaders of Mandalore to hopefully prevent them from following in the footsteps of the current ones. While she did that, Will had spoken to his uncle and then returned to the room to go over all the data that Duchess Satine gave him. It took a few hours to go over everything but it gave him a better picture of what was going on.

"What is it, Mando?" Ahsoka wondered as Will put the last data pad down and rubbed his eyes. He was laying back in a chair in his padawan robes while his armor was laid out on his bed.

"Nothing good but clearly some things aren't lining up right." He answered.

"What do you mean?" She asked so he handed her one of the data pads that had the number of ships coming to port on Mandalore. "The dockmaster's list?"

"It's the list of every single ship that enters Mandalore Space and ones that dock here in Sundari and the other cities." He answered before showing her another data pad. "This is the information on the storage and distribution of all goods in the city. According to this and to Duchess Satine's notes, Mandalore's had to endure a food shortage since the war began. Trade was disrupted because of the war but that's a well known fact and not something exclusive to this area of the galaxy. Other planets have been faced with the issue as well and have to enable strict rationing to make sure there is enough."

"Ok, makes sense. What am I not seeing?" Ahsoka questioned.

"The numbers don't add up. If the city really were undergoing strict rationing because of a food shortage then there wouldn't be so many ships coming in. And if there were so many ships coming in with goods and food then there wouldn't need to be strict rationing." He explained and Ahsoka was starting to see the pattern.

"Someone's controlling the distribution of goods and charging such exorbitant prices while artificially creating a food shortage here on Mandalore." She deduced.

"Exactly. Whoever this is has to be in a serious position of power and is able to use that to get other people to help. There's no way you could pull something like this off with just one person." He theorized. "The only people who could theoretically get away with something like this is either the Duchess or the Prime Minister."

"And since it was the Duchess that brought us here…"

"It has to be the Prime Minister." Will finished Ahsoka's sentence. "But this is just a theory and even with Duchess Satine giving us her approval it won't mean much if we can't get solid proof."

"So, what do we do?" Ahsoka wondered.

"I think it's time I did a little snooping." He suggested as he walked over to his bed to get suited up. "I suggest you get some sleep since you have a class in the morning."

"Don't be an ass." She shoved him a bit while he got changed. Once he was suited up he snuck out of the Royal Academy and headed to the warehouses. If someone really were keeping a surplus amount of food then they'd still need a place to hide it. A pair of Mandalorian guards walked by the warehouse while on patrol, looking around for anything out of the ordinary but saw nothing so they continued their patrol. Will slowly stepped out of the shadows wearing his Mandalorian armor with BD-8 perched up on his shoulder.

He kept moving through the warehouse district, avoiding any large open areas, and sticking to the shadows as he neared one of the main warehouses. He noticed some unmarked speeders parked around one of the more secured warehouses that Will remembered was noted as government secured. He made his way to the side and saw a vent too narrow for him to go in but perfect for BD-8 so he pulled the cover off. "Ok, BD-8. Be careful and be quiet."

BD-8 nodded and headed inside the vent, following it all the way inside the warehouse. When the little droid reached the first vent hatch into the warehouse, he saw the inside of the giant structure and it was filled with food supplies. Copious containers of water and other food stuff in a giant warehouse. The warehouse was literally holding more than enough food to help with the food shortage problem so clearly whoever had hid it here was involved. BD-8 recorded some footage and then kept moving through the vent until he spotted a meeting between some unmarked Mandalorian Police, a person in a cloak and three Gotal. Gotal were a short-fur covered humanoid like species from Antar 4. Their most distinctive feature were the twin conical horns growing on top of their heads, which acted as highly responsive electro-magnetic sensors. BD-8 recorded the meeting when all of a sudden a clatter of something falling caused the meeting to end prematurely. The Mandalorian police chased after whoever snuck into the warehouse while the Gotal left. The mystery figure kept his hood over his face and left through a back entrance. When he exited the warehouse he removed his hood to reveal it was the Prime Minister and quickly got onto a nearby speeder and left.

Will walked out from around the corner with BD-8 up on his shoulder. "I knew it was him." He muttered and BD-8 asked what the next step of the plan was. "Now? I'm thinking we let the Prime Minister hang himself. BD-8, let's head back to the Tempest to pick up some things and contact some friends."

The next day…

Ahsoka was in the middle of her lesson when she noticed something going on with some of the students. "Korkie, you seem distracted today. What's going on?" Ahsoka asked.

"We did what you said. We found evidence of corruption." Korkie replied.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, we were hungry, so we decided to go look for food." Cadet Amis said.

"Food?"

"Yeah, down at the government warehouse." Cadet Lagos added.

"Someone just let you in to inspect the warehouse?" Ahsoka asked.

"No, we broke in." He replied.

"Oh, great." Another student groaned and slapped her forehead in disbelief.

"So, you committed a crime." Ahsoka clarified.

"It sounds bad, I know but then we saw a meeting and off-worlders—"

"And they chased us!"

"Maybe they chased you because you broke into a government warehouse." Ahsoka pointed out.

"No, it was a black market deal. I know it. My aunt Satine told us to stay out of it, but we must do something." Korkie stated.

"Do you have proof?"

"We made a holo-recording. The Prime Minister is meeting us tonight to…" The Cadet then stopped talking when she realized she shouldn't have said that.

"Are you sure that's a good idea?"

"But I thought you said it was the duty of every citizen to expose corrupt officials." Lagos reminded her.

"I'm only saying that you should take this slowly. Examine all the facts and all of the people involved before you act." Ahsoka cautioned.

"You sound more like my aunt then a Jedi Knight." Korkie pointed out when the academy bell went off, signifying the end of class. The students got up and left. Once they were gone, Ahsoka took out her commlink and contacted Will.

"Mando, I think we've got a way to get the Prime Minister." She told him.

Several hours later…

Korkie and his friend arrived at the palace plaza with the holo-recording like Prime Minister Almec said to. They saw some people off to the side but they were hidden by the shadows. "You Korkie?"

"Prime Minister, is that you?" Korkie called out but the man stepped forward to show he was one of the unmarked Mandalorian Police.

"Secret Service. You're all under arrest for treason, corruption, and conspiracy. You will come with us." He declared as he and his men readied their battle sticks and shields before they surrounded the kids.

The kids tried to put up a fight but were quickly subdued when Ahsoka jumped off the plaza roof and landed on a Mandalorian Police officer. She jumped forward and kicked another in the face before spinning in the air and kicking another in the neck. One tried to attack her from behind but his leg was kicked out and then he was grabbed from behind. Will grappled him from behind and threw him to the ground before elbowing him in the back of the head. He ripped the guard's helmet off and threw it at another officer, hitting him in the face before he took another to the ground with a double leg takedown and then punched him across the face. The two officers still standing tried to run but Will used the force to hover them into the air before force pulling them to him. He clotheslined one and kicked the other in the face before stomping on both their chests. Ahsoka flipped through the air and landed on them both, knocking them out.

Once they were all taken care off, Will proceeded to disarm them of their weapons and then gathered them together. "Looks like the Prime Minister set you up." Ahsoka stated as she helped the students to their feet.

"But that's treason. He's the leader of our system. He couldn't possibly be a traitor." Korkie pointed out.

"We need proof." Amis remarked.

"We already have it." Ahsoka said before looking over at Will who was tying up the officers with their own restraint cuffs. "Mando over there went to the same warehouse you did last night and saw the Prime Minister there and he got recorded proof. We were just waiting for him to make his next move and you were it."

"We have to take this to my aunt and warn her." Korkie said when he realized something. "They know I talked to her."

They rushed from the plaza to Satine's office where they saw one of her Mandalorian Protectors dead by the door. The rest of them were dead in the office. Korkie blamed himself for what happened and they had no idea what to do which is where Will and Ahsoka came in. They had a plan. Ahsoka went to see Prime Minister Almec and told him that the students were involved in a conspiracy against him. The students were arrested and Ahsoka was taken to the prison so she could interrogate them. Afterward, she used the Jedi Mind Trick on two of the guards to take her to Satine. Surprisingly or ironically, she ended up in the same cell block as Pre Vizsla.

"Well, I wasn't expecting this." Pre Vizsla quipped as he saw Ahsoka walk in with the two guards. The two laser turrets in the room followed Ahsoka as she walked over to the Duchess's cell and looked at the control console.

"What are you doing?" A guard asked when she tried to touch the console.

"I must interrogate the Duchess." Ahsoka used the Jedi Mind Trick on the guards.

"You must interrogate the Duchess." He replied in a blank tone. Ahsoka then used the console to get the Duchess out of her cell.

"I'm getting you out of here." Ahsoka whispered to the Duchess.

"Ahsoka, it's a trap." Satine warned her.

"I see you found the Duchess, Youngling. You may stop your playacting now, Sergeant." Prime Minister Almec said and the two guards stood at attention. 12 more of the corrupt officers soon entered the cell block and Pre Vizsla watched with intrigue. "Using a Jedi mind trick was a very poor decision. My guards have been trained to resist such archaic magic. And now you have revealed yourself as a conspirator. Set for stun."

The laser turret aimed at Ahsoka and fired a stun bolt. Ahsoka was in pain and unable to do anything as one of the guards restrained her. The Prime Minister then walked up to the Duchess with a data pad. "Sign it. Sign the confession and admit to your treasonous ways."

"There is only one traitor to Mandalore here, Prime Minister, and that's you. You control the Black Market. You've starved the people of Mandalore. You have betrayed the public trust and used your office to accumulate wealth and power. It's shameful." Satine spat at him while Almec just chuckled.

"Your idealism is inspiring, my dear, but hopelessly naïve. I established the black market for the people." Almec corrected her.

"That's absurd!" Ahsoka cursed him.

"The war is disrupting trade across the galaxy. The profits from the black markets are being used to purchase humanitarian supplies for Mandalore. Think of it as a new tax in the interest of national security." Almec explained.

"It's a tax for your benefit, Prime Minister. Where are these humanitarian supplies you speak of? What good does this do for the people? Don't delude yourself into thinking you're nothing more than a common thief!" Satine shouted.

"Oh, how I'll miss your idealistic fervor but don't worry. I imagine you and Pre Vizsla will enjoy your time together with the Jedi. I actually have to thank you for getting rid of another pain in my side. Bringing that Mandalorian Jedi here now allows me to get rid of a future threat. My men are already out looking for him and soon enough he'll join you in your cell." Almec told her.

"That's not gonna happen." Pre Vizsla muttered. He knew full well that they had no chance against his nephew.

"Sergeant, put a shock collar on the Duchess." Almec ordered and the sergeant next to him took one out from behind his back.

"Of course, sir. Happy to HELP!" The sergeant placed the collar on Almec instead and then punched him in the face. The Prime Minister hit the ground and the sergeant pressed a button on the console, causing the collar to shock him. Ahsoka headbutted the guard holding her and front flipped forward to bring her hands in front of her. The traitor guard held out his hand and force pushed two guards into a wall. He then removed his helmet to reveal it was Will in disguise.

"Ahsoka!" Will tossed up her lightsaber which she caught and cut herself free. Will activated his blue lightsaber and the Darksaber before slicing two guards in half at the waist and then impaling them through the chest. One guard attempted to disarm Ahsoka but she cut his arm off and then slashed him across the chest, killing him. Three guards attempted to charge Will but he flipped through the air slashed them across the chest and cut off their heads. A guard rushed at Ahsoka but she force pushed him back and slammed him into Pre Vizsla's cell. The guard's body broke the control panel of his cell, causing the door to open so Pre Vizsla was free and he stepped out.

Prime Minister Almec saw his guards were getting killed so he had to run for the exit but took out a blaster pistol and aimed at the Duchess only for Pre Vizsla to grab it and wrestle with him for control. Will and Ahsoka killed the last of Almec's guards before freeing the Duchess when they saw Pre Vizsla knee Almec in the stomach and throw him to the ground. He got control of the blaster pistol and aimed it at the Prime Minister.

"One thing I can't stand…" Pre Vizsla pulled the trigger and killed the Prime Minister with a shot to the head. "…is a money-grubbing bureaucrat."

"Drop it!" Ahsoka warned him, holding her saber ready. The Duchess and Will looked at Pre Vizsla who looked back before tossing the blaster aside and putting his hands behind his head.

"I'm already in jail. Killing one more person wasn't going to change anything." Pre Vizsla pointed out. "Besides, he served to die."

Ahsoka walked over and put some restraint cuffs on him while Will deactivated his lightsabers. "Call my personal guard. We have some cleaning we need to do." Duchess Satine said.

"Cleaning's already underway." Will assured her. Outside in the city by the docks, more of Prime Minister Almec's men were stationed around the Tempest, waiting for the Mandalorian Jedi to return when they saw Fang Fighters and other ships closing in. They were confused as to what was going when Mandalorians wearing jetpacks flew over them and landed on the dock. They had their weapons ready and held the guards at blaster point.

"Weapons down, boys. Trust me. You won't win this one." Gar Saxon warned them as Bo and the others kept their blasters ready. Several Fang Fighters hovered along the docks with Fenn Rau leading them.

"Drop your weapons and stand down! By order of the Mandalorian Protectors and Duchess Satine of Mandalore!" Fenn Rau ordered so the corrupt guards had no choice but to surrender.

Satine's Mandalorian Protectors arrived and tended to the scene, taking the dead away including Prime Minister Almec. Two of the protectors escorted Pre Vizsla to a new cell. "You didn't have to help." Will pointed out.

"I didn't. I saw a chance to escape and I took it." Pre Vizsla corrected him.

"Not exactly the best escape attempt." Will informed him.

"They can't all be. Besides, Almec is better dead." Pre Vizsla remarked before walking into his new cell and laying down on the bed. Will wasn't sure if his uncle was being genuine and actually wanted to help or if he was telling truth in that he just wanted to escape and it didn't go well but he was ok with not knowing the answer.

"Well, I think it's fair to say that things here got complicated." Ahsoka quipped.

"I told you." Will said as BD-8 crawled down from the ceiling. "Did you get it buddy?"

BD-8 nodded and gave him a mock salute before climbing onto his shoulder. "Thank you again for your help, Padawan Vizsla. I had my suspicions but to think that Prime Minister Almec was behind all this still boggles the mind." She admitted.

"Well, BD-8 has recorded proof so now the people can know the truth. It's sometimes the people closest to us that have the easiest time in their deceit." Will said with a fair amount of Obi-wan-like wisdom.

"I can see you're taking after your master. No doubt you will be a fine Jedi like him." Satine said as they walked out of the prison to see more of Almec's underlings being marched into the prison. Many of them were similar unmarked Mandalorian police while others were workers or officials who helped him in his illegal activities. Standing guard were the Mandalorian Protectors and the police who weren't traitors. Some of the Mandalorian protectors included Fenn Rau and the protectors from Concord Dawn who monitored and protected Mandalore space.

"Duchess Satine." Fenn Rau and his men stood at attention.

"Fenn Rau. What are you doing here?" Satine asked.

"I called him when I learned that Almec was the one responsible. If he attempted a takeover then you would need some help so I made a call to him along with some others." Will said, leading Satine and Ahsoka from the prison to the docks. They arrived on a speeder transport and saw several new freighter ships docked and some Mandalorian commandos in full armor.

"What is all this?" Satine asked.

"Help and aid for the planet Mandalore." Qi'ra said as she stepped forward. "Duchess Satine, my name is Qi'ra. My associates and I have come to provide some food and supplies to Mandalore."

"You control what remains of Death Watch?" Satine questioned.

"No, I don't. They just work with my boss and my organization. They are the Mandalorian Defenders and take orders from him." Qi'ra pointed to Will.

"I told you that Death Watch is no more. I turned what they used to be into something else. They've been assisting Qi'ra in protecting valuable shipping lanes and convoys of supplies throughout the Republic. I promised that Death Watch was no more and I meant it." Will said as the Mandalorians removed their helmets so Satine could see them and she saw one of them was her sister.

"Bo…" Satine was shocked to see her. "It's been a long time."

"Satine." Bo greeted her.

"Why are you helping now?" Satine wondered as Bo looked over at Will.

"I had a change of heart. And he's pretty convincing when he wants to be." Bo pointed out.

"That he is. There was a time when we weren't enemies. Perhaps that time has come again." Satine hoped.

"When I heard of the trouble befalling Mandalore I also thought of a possible solution. Qi'ra has provided valuable aid and intel to the Jedi and Republic since the war but her organization is also a recognized trade group. Normal trading freighters and convoys may not be able to come to Mandalore Space but these ones are protected by the best warriors there are." Will told the Duchess.

"My employer would be more than happy to assist Mandalore going forward. Qibbu the Hutt is a legitimate businessman with various resources and is happy to establish a trade contract given the circumstances of the war." Qi'ra suggested.

"Thank you, Qi'ra. Thank you, Padawan and thank you all. Your decision to come help me when my government exiled you all…does much to humble me and my previous actions." Satine said.

"Time has a way of showing us our past mistakes. But it's up to us to acknowledge that." Will said.

"You suggested such the last time we spoke on Coruscant, Padawan Vizsla. Perhaps I was too rash to just disregard you. You have wisdom beyond your years." Satine said to him before looking at everyone. "Thank you all your help. Bo…perhaps we could take a walk and talk for a bit."

Bo nodded and the two sisters took a short walk to reconnect. Will and Ahsoka looked over at Qi'ra who gave both of them a wink. "We did good today, Mando." Ahsoka said.

"We did, Ace. I think we did really good." He replied with the biggest smile on his face. Ahsoka gave him a playful bump and BD-8 pat Will on the head.

While the past two decades of trouble on Mandalore wouldn't be suddenly resolved in a day, Will's actions did provide a springboard for them to start. He and Ahsoka were able to help the Duchess get to the center of corruption on Mandalore which ended up being Prime Minister Almec. He was now dead so Satine would need to find a new Prime Minister she could trust or take on the position herself. But with Almec's death they managed to arrest all of his co-conspirators and free all the supplies he horded, as he put it, to help Mandalore with humanitarian supplies. Food would be made available to the people that Almec was starving and with Satine meeting Qi'ra, a new business arrangement would be able to provide Mandalore with a more steady stream of supplies. And it was a group that was able to protect itself thanks to the Mandalorian Defenders. Not only that but this good will helped to break down Satine's rigid stance against the old Mandalorians. Under the right leadership, they were a powerful ally for her to have and perhaps things would get better.

It was still too early to tell but for now, things were looking good.

Line Break xxxxx

Separatist Attack! After the destruction of the Republic outpost on the Rishi Moon, General Grievous and Asajj Ventress plan an attack on the plant Kamino, home of the cloning factories. Meanwhile, aboard a Jedi Cruiser, Jedi Knights Anakin Skywalker and Obi-wan Kenobi examine an intercepted message from General Grievous.

Anakin Skywalker and Obi-wan Kenobi were aboard the Negotiator on the CIC with Padawan Will Vizsla and Clone Commander Cody and Clone Captain Rex. Republic intelligence intercepted a message from Grievous and they wanted to know what the cyborg was planning.

"We are decrypting the audio, sir." The Clone engineer said as the hologram finally cleared up for them to hear the recording.

"The Clone planet of Kamino will be a dangerous target." A female voice said before Grievous appeared.

"Just make sure you hold up your half of the mission. We must stop the production of new clones if we are to win this war." Grievous said before the message ended.

"Kamino." Anakin said.

"They're going to attack our home planet." Rex stated.

"The Separatists are taking quite the chance even considering this." Obi-wan pointed out.

"They tried to do this before on the Rishi Moon. They know how important Kamino is to the Republic. And did you hear that other voice in the message?" Will wondered and they nodded. "If Ventress is going to be there too then it's clearly something they want done but they better come prepared. Rex, Cody, and I were able to stop the invasion with Rathtar squad but this time we'll have more help. From people who are ready to fight."

"I agree with the commander, Sir. This one is personal for us Clones." Commander Cody agreed.

"Kamino it is then. Commander, Captain, tell your men they're going home." Anakin said so Cody and Rex stood at attention before leaving to inform the men.

"I still don't think the Separatists will be able to take over the planet." Obi-wan pointed out.

"They probably can't. They just want to do as much damage as possible. If even one of the buildings is badly damaged then it means bad news for us." Will said and the Jedi masters agreed.

"Starting to wish you brought some of your Mandalorians with you instead of having them stick around to secure Mandalore space, huh?" Anakin pointed out.

"A little bit." Will admitted. "But Ghost Company is ready and know the terrain. They can handle this."

"Way to think positive." Anakin pat Will on the shoulder and left.

Kamino

They arrived on Kamino and took an Acclimator-Class Assault ship down to Tipoca city. The ship docked into place and the clone troopers disembarked the ship with Anakin, Obi-wan, Will, Rex, and Cody meeting Jedi Master Shaak Ti and Kamino's Prime Minister Lama Su.

"Masters Kenobi and Skywalker, Padawan Vizsla, welcome to Kamino." Shaak Ti greeted them.

"Greetings, Generals." Lama Su said.

"I wish our arrival wasn't under such circumstances. We believe Grievous is planning a Separatist attack on Kamino." Obi-wan informed them.

"But the Republic blockade is far too strong. They would not dare." Lama Su pointed out while Shaak Ti gave it some thought.

"I wouldn't put anything past the Separatists, Prime Minister. Especially, Grievous. And any damage he could cause to Tipoca city would be a win in his book." Will added.

"The Padawan is right. They know how important Kamino is to the Republic so if they're successful here then it would affect our ability to counter them in the war. We'll prepare accordingly." Shaak Ti said and Lama Su nodded.

"Padawan, you'll be here with me manning the defense of the city. Get your men into position." Obi-wan said to Will.

"Yes, Master." Will then put on his helmet and turned to face his men. "Ghost Company, stand to!"

Immediately, all the clones of Ghost Company stood at attention with ARC troopers Fives, Echo, and Hevy in front. "Gentlemen, this day is no less important then any other in this war. This is your home your protecting. The Separatists are coming to destroy your home. Will you let them?!" Will shouted.

"No, sir!" the Clones shouted as the Jedi, Rex and Cody watched.

"I can't hear you!" Will shouted.

"NO, SIR!" The Clones shouted back.

"We've trained for every kind of battlefield scenario so I'm expecting nothing but the best from here on out! Fives, move them out!" Will shouted.

"Yes, sir!" Fives saluted him before turning to face the men. "First Squad, on me! Second squad, on Hevy! Third squad, on Echo! Move it! Move it! Move it!"

The clones moved out in a coordinated and efficient manner that was a clear demonstration of superior training. "Your Padawan has a keen and excellent command of his clones." Shaak Ti complimented.

"That he does." Obi-wan replied.

Will had a quick strategy meeting with his clones to inform them of his plan. Given the logistical madhouse Tipoca city presented Will had to be careful with how he organized his men. Most of the 501st and 212th along with the Kamino Security Forces were stationed in key areas like the main entrances and loading docks which were the primary points of egress into the city. Putting Ghost Company where there are already a large group of clones seemed like a waste so he decided to place them in strategic places around the city. He had Fives lead First Squadron in the main domed structure which housed the main DNA chamber. Echo would lead a Third Squadron by the medical building which provided the best vantage point over the city so they could call out attacks and/or troop positions. Hevy would lead Second Squadron by the barracks in the neighboring building next to the main hub. There was an important strategic bridge there that needed to stay secure. Will was relying on his ARC troopers to step up and lead but they were ready.

He joined Obi-wan and Master Shaak Ti in the CIC command room with Captain Rex and Commander Cody. Their sensors picked up the Separatist fleet arrive in the space. The Separatists arrive with their own fleet of 11 Munificent-class star frigates, 3 Recusant-class destroyers and Grievous's Providence-class dreadnaught. Once the alarm sounded, Master Skywalker led the ground-based Starfighters up to join the Republic feet made up of a dozen Venator-Class Star Destroyers. The Separatist fleet did outnumber their ships but the Venator Star Destroyers were more then a match and combined with their large array of starfighters it was more then enough to turn the tide in the space battle.

"Shore up our defenses." Commander Cody ordered and a clone technician nodded, putting in the commands to the city's defenses and alerting the clone troopers.

"The fleet is not as large as I expected." Shaak Ti pointed out. "Begin the air strike."

The clones put in the command so Master Skywalker and his company of starfighters began their attack. BTL-B Y-wing bombers, ARC-170s, and V-19 Torrent Interceptors attacked along with volley fire from the star destroyers. The effects were instantaneous as many of Grievous ships took serious damage. Debris from the ships began to fall down to the planet.

"Grievous seems to be ok with letting his ships take serious damage." Will remarked. "This is weird, right?"

"Indeed. Something doesn't feel right." Obi-wan agreed.

The space battle continued with the starfighters making quick work of the cruisers and making more debris fall onto the planet. "Something definitely feels off. It's almost like Grievous is deliberately forsaking his star frigates. He's not trying to come around a flank or outmaneuver the blockade to let his transports through. This isn't like him." Will said and Obi-wan agreed.

"I'm gonna press the attack up here, Master. I'm heading to Grievous's command ship." Anakin radioed in.

"No, Anakin. Wait! This is too easy. Not even Grievous would attack so recklessly." Obi-wan radioed back.

"Master, the battle's up here in space, not down there."

"The debris from the destroyed Separatists ships is the key." Obi-wan told him.

"What are you thinking?" Shaak Ti questioned.

"I think I'd like to go for a swim. Will, stay here and see to the defense of the city." Obi-wan ordered and Will nodded. Obi-wan took an underwater speeder to check out the debris while Will and Shaak Ti stayed in the commander center.

"What do you think your master will find with the debris?" Shaak Ti asked Will, wanting to know his opinion.

"Honestly, I have no idea and that's what scares me." Will admitted. "Master, you see anything down there?"

"Nothing as of yet." Obi-wan responded via the radio.

"Only you could be worried about the ships I already shot down." Anakin pointed out.

"Well, keep searching master. I've never known you to be wrong when your guts senses something's off." Will told him.

"Thank you, Padawan. Glad to see someone appreciates and respects my teaching." Obi-wan thanked him.

"I appreciate it." Anakin assured him.

"Wait a minute. I think I see something." Obi-wan told them so Will and Shaak Ti waited to see what he found. "Aqua droids. It looks as though they're assembling assault craft."

"That's what the debris was for." Will deduced. "Grievous sacrificed those ships because they were parts for the landing part that's already here. Grievous is planning an underwater assault."

"Padawan, put out the alert—" Obi-wan's signal cut out.

"Master!" Will shouted but Obi-wan didn't reply.

"Put Tipoca City on full alert! We have aquatic assault craft on the planet! All clones to their positions and all non-combatants to their shelters!" Shaak Ti ordered and the clone technicians put out the red alert.

"Master Skywalker, we need you down here!" Will radioed.

"I'm on my way!" Anakin replied.

"BD-8, connect to the CIC and keep the communication system up and running. Stay connected to Echo and keep us informed of what's going on." Will told him and the droid nodded, climbing down his arm, and connecting to the terminal. "I'm heading out there!"

"Be careful!" Shaak Ti cautioned as Will rushed out of the CIC.

"Ghost Company look alive! We've got aquatic assault craft on the planet! Be prepared for close fighting!" Will radioed to his men.

"Roger that!" Fives, Echo, and Hevy radioed back before moving their squadrons into action.

"All right, First Squadron! Set up firing lines and get the non-combatants out of here. And gets those shield up!" Fives ordered and the men quickly did as they were told.

Hevy was getting his men set up on their strategic position near the main bridge connecting Tipoca city. They quickly set up a fortified position with a heavy blaster turret and had several rocket launchers standing by. "Check your ammo clips and turn your safeties off! We've got droids incoming!" Hevy shouted.

Echo and his squad were set up in sniper positions thanks to their high vantage point and had their comms relay and sensor package up and running. "The second we let them overwhelm us then we're dead! Maintain discipline and rain down fire!" Echo told them when he saw the first Trident-assault ships breach the ocean and land on one of the city structures. Then another and another and soon enough there were 14 of these ships all over the city. "Sir, we've got 14 Trident-assault class ships!"

"Roger that. Call out their positions and BD-8 will help connect you with the clones in those areas! Hevy, lock down your position and take out as many of those ships before they can breach! I don't want any more droids breaching the main city structure! Fives, I'm on my way to you! We need to make sure the DNA chamber is secure!" Will ordered.

"Roger that!" the clones replied as Hevy and two clones picked up their RPS-6 Rocket launchers.

"Load homing rockets!" Hevy ordered as he hefted his launcher onto his shoulder and took aim. The other two clones took aim while three clones loaded homing rockets into the tubes.

"Target locked sir." A clone said, locking onto a nearby Trident-class assault ship.

"Fire!" Hevy ordered and they fired a salvo of rockets that flew through the air and hit one of the assault ships. The first two rockets hit the body of the ship while the third hit one of the arms it used to latch onto the building structure. The ship quickly fell off and exploded when it landed in the ocean. "Reload."

The clones quickly reloaded their rockets to take out the other nearby ships but some already had breached into parts of the city through hangar bays. One ship breached through a hangar in the main structure of Tipoca city and used one of its arms to knock away some troopers before it latched into place. The mouth of the assault ship opened up and a dozen AQ-series battle droids more commonly known as Aqua droids were deployed and began their attack. They had a retractable laser cannon on their right wrist and proceeded to engage the clones in a fire fight. Despite their slow lumbering pattern of walking, they were much more formidable and well built compared to regular battle droids. The clones maintained an aggressive field of fire behind cover when another assault breached the roof the hangar and dropped in more Aqua droids. The clones took down as many droids as they could but were getting overwhelmed. More and more Aqua droids arrived followed shortly by Grievous.

"Kill them all!" Grievous ordered.

More and more assault ships breached Tipoca city with their impact causing some structural damage in the cloning chamber which ended up wiping out entire generations of clone fetuses. One of the assault ships deployed four dozen Aqua droids on an attaching landing platform near the main building and the droids were quickly overwhelming the clone squadron on the ground. They established a solid firing line but had limited cover when one of the assault ships slammed one of its arms down and killed some of the clones. Ventress walked out of one of the ships and headed into the main building. The Aqua droids kept pushing when some in the back of the group were taken out by sniper bolts. That came curtesy Echo who was still in his overwatch position with his squadron. Due to their position up high, they were able to shoot down at the Aqua droids below with perfect cover and were making quick work of the droids in their vicinity. Echo saw more droids heading to the main building so he switched his DC-17m blaster into sniper mode and began taking shots. He had some sniper practice when he went through ARC trooper training and thankfully the DC-17m interchangeable weapon system had a sniper setting. He took down 5 more Aqua droids when more clones arrived to support the outnumbered clones in that area. They knew where to go thanks to Echo calling out their position and BD-8 relaying him to a clone unit that was nearby to help.

Clone 99 was rushing through one of the hangars that was under attack with a pack of ammo and more blasters which he handed out to clones who needed a new weapon. ARC Trooper Havoc was tending to an injured clone when he saw 99. "99, get out of here!" Havoc shouted when he was hit in the chest with a blaster bolt. 99 knelt down to help him. "This is no place for you."

He then got hit by a blaster bolt to the face so 99 rushed away to go help another clone squad. Hevy and his squad had run out of rockets but managed to take out 4 of the Trident-class assault ships. Hevy sent out a team of three clones to hurry back with more ammo while he and the others kept up their position overlooking the main bridge of Tipoca city. As Will predicted, it was the primary egress point for Aqua droids. They took it to get to the main building and the DNA chamber which made them prime targets for a flanking attacking and Will positioned Hevy in the perfect spot. Hevy was using his rotary blaster to mow down the Aqua droids and other battle droids heading to the main building while the clones used their weapons and the heavy blaster turret they set up. They had fortified their position with barriers so they were protected while the slow, lumbering Aqua droids were easy targets.

"Keep up the fire, boys! We can beat these guys!" Hevy shouted as his rotary blaster ripped through an Aqua droid. That's when three clones returned with 99 and a group of clone cadets. "99."

"I brought you some ammo." 99 placed down a pack of ammo and the clones took what they needed while the clone rocket troopers reloaded their launchers.

"Thanks, 99." Hevy replied.

"Sir, we found these cadets on the way back. Didn't know where to take them." The clone replied.

"What are you cadets doing here?" Hevy asked.

"We got separated from our group." A clone cadet answered.

"Where were they taking you?" Hevy questioned.

"The barracks."

"Oh, I know the best way there." 99 said.

"All right, Ikon, you're in command here. Keep these clankers pinned down and take out more of these assault ships. I'll take 99 and the cadets to the barracks and be right back." Hevy said.

"Yes, sir." Ikon replied as the clone rocket troopers fired a barrage at another Trident-class assault ship. Hevy then left with 99 and the clone cadets.

Will stood side by side with Fives and the First Squadron of Ghost Company in one section of the Main building against a wave of Aqua droids and battle droids. Will was using his in a Form-3 style to block and deflect the blaster bolts from the droids while Fives stood by him and used his twin DC-17 blaster pistols. Fives effectively shot down droid after droid that came into his line of sight. The other clones of First Squadron were set up in an effective firing line with overlapping fields of fire. They took cover behind walls or behind durasteel shield barriers. That was one of the tricks Will had Ghost Company implement for close quarters fighting with limited cover. The durasteel shield barriers were similar to riot shields some police used so they were light enough to be carried but sturdy enough to provide effective cover if used properly. The clones set them up next to each other so that they fortified one another and provided additional cover in an area that had didn't have a lot. This way the clones could focus on blasting the droids.

Fives had to reload his blaster pistols so he ducked back behind Will who covered him while he reloaded. "Droid poppers!" Fives shouted and six clones stepped out of cover and threw out droid poppers. The small grenades landed on the ground and rolled over to the droids before they released EM pulses and knocked out a dozen droids. "Clear!"

Fives came out from behind Will and blasted droid after droid in quick succession before throwing a thermal detonator and taking out a cluster of them. Will charged forward using the force to increase his speed before he flipped through the air. He sliced through several droids in quick success before rolling forward and force pushing three into a wall. He spun around and hid behind an Aqua droid for cover. It was blasted by two battle droids before Will cut their heads off.

"Clankers down!" Fives shouted as the clones stopped their fire and reloaded their blasters. Will deactivated his saber and looked around to see that the droid were in fact taken out. "The Separatist don't have enough droids to take over the city."

"They're not trying to. They're just trying to divide our attention and stretch us thin." Will said when his commlink beeped. He activated it and BD-8 sent him security camera footage of Grievous and his droids taking out clone defensive position when Ventress came from the side and killed Commander Colt. The two bantered back and forth when Grievous let slip that Ventress was to break into the DNA room and take the clone host DNA. Seeing their position, Will radioed to Obi-wan. "Master, I've got eyes on Grievous. He's in the west section of the complex. Ventress is heading to the main DNA chamber!"

"Anakin is already on his way to stop Ventress. Padawan, head to the west section and we can stop Grievous!" Obi-wan radioed back.

"I'm on my way. Fives, take the squadron and head to the main DNA chamber. Find Master Skywalker and help him stop Ventress." Will ordered.

"Yes, sir." Fives led the men east while Will headed west.

A squad of Aqua droids attacked the CIC but Master Shaak Ti quickly took them out. She cut through two droids with ease before force throwing a dismembered droid arm cannon into the face plate of another. She force lifted two into the air before throwing them into a third. "The droids are spread thin. We press our offensive now!" Shaak Ti ordered out to all clones.

Hevy managed to escort the clone cadets back to the barracks with the help of 99. The cadets slumped down and sighed. "What are we gonna do?"

"A Separatist victory means death for all of us. The Cadet is right. What are we gonna do?" 99 wondered.

"We fight." They heard as Cody and Rex had arrived. "A droid detachment is heading this way. We're the only thing stopping them from heading further int."

"But our training's not finished." A cadet pointed out.

"It is now. Look around. We're one and the same, same heart, same blood. Your training is in your blood. This is our home and the clankers aren't going to get it without a fight. I've been tougher odds before and won. And I know we can do it here." Hevy assured them.

"But what about weapons?" A cadet asked.

"The armory. It's just a few corridors away, here in the barracks. I can retrieve all the firepower that we need. So, who wants to blast some droids?" 99 asked and the clones smiled.

Ventress arrived at the DNA chamber and used the console to access the Jango Feet DNA sample. She removed it from the machine when Anakin arrived and activated his lightsaber. "I was beginning to think my presence went unnoticed." Ventress remarked.

"You weren't planning on leaving without saying hello, were you?" Anakin wondered. Ventress clipped the DNA sample onto her belt before taking her two dueling sabers and activated the red blades. Shen then leapt at him and the two fought.

Grievous marched through the halls of the building, looking for any clones to kill. The battle droids marched along with him. One of them moved over to a door and knocked. "Open up."

Get those doors open and scare the remaining clones out of hiding!" Grievous ordered.

"Roger, roger." The battle droid blasted the lock and the door opened. A squad of clones were protecting a corps of cadets and opened fire on the battle droids. The four in clear view of the doorway were taken down but then the others marched in. The clones fell back for cover while the droids marched forward.

"All too easy." Grievous chuckled in menacing glee when Obi-wan appeared down the hall.

"Define easy, general." Obi-wan quipped.

"Kenobi." Grievous sneered as Obi-wan activated his saber and aimed the blade forward. Grievous activated a blue and green lightsaber and charged.

The battle droids kept on marching into the barracks when Will rushed in from the other end of the hallway. He saw the droids heading into a clones barrack so he fired his wrist rocket and blew up four Aqua droids. The two still standing turned around and aimed their blasters so Will activated his lightsaber and blocked their blaster bolts. He ran up the side of the wall and flipped through the air, deflecting blaster bolts as he landed on the ground. He rolled forward and quickly moved into Form-5 defensive techniques, deflecting a blaster bolt right into an Aqua droid's faceplate before spinning into a wide lateral cut that bisected the two droids in half. All that were left were the regular battle droids but Will quickly took them down one after another. He beheaded the final three battle droids, saving the clone soldiers and cadets from getting killed.

"Thanks for the assist, sir." A clone replied.

"Don't mention it. Stay here until reinforcements arrive." Will told him, closing the door before going to help his master against Grievous.

Obi-wan quickly met Grievous's attack with his Form-3 defensive blocks, parries, and deflections before spinning around him and engaging his flank. The cyborg general parried and blocked his attacks before getting stuck in a saber lock with Obi-wan. That's when the cyborg activated one of his other arms and grabbed Obi-wan by the face and slammed him onto the ground. He raised his saber up but then quickly turned around to avoid a flying haw-bat swoop strike from Will. Grievous blocked the attack and pushed him away. Will flipped through the air and landed on his feet while Obi-wan rolled away to safety and reactivated his saber.

"Ah, two Jedi. Perfect." Grievous boasted as he activated his other limbs so he now had four arms with four lightsabers. Will and Obi-wan pressed the attacks and kept Grievous on the defensive. Will attacked him from the front while Obi-wan attacked him from behind. Grievous had nowhere to go and was stuck in the middle but was using his four arms and four lightsabers with deadly precision. No other person would be able to meet their attacks as effectively as he did. Grievous's front arms blocked and parried Will's quick strikes and cuts while attacking Obi-wan with his back arms. Then when Obi-wan managed to parry an attack and move into an attack Grievous was able to go on the defensive while pushing Will back. With the cyborg's four arms it was like the Master and Padawan were fighting two Jar'Kai styled duelist at the same time. Thankfully, Obi-wan was a Form-3 Soresu master so his defensive movements were able to keep up with Grievous's ferocious and fierce attacks. And Will's former and current master were Form-3 practitioners so he had plenty of practice along with training in Form-5 DJem So meaning his defensive practice was exceptional. That and he trained heavily back at the temple against training droids using dual lightsabers so he had practice and was able to keep up.

Grievous knew that the younger Padawan was the weaker link so he pressed his attack on Will. As Will expected he would, he kept his defensive movements strong but then added in acrobatic elements from Form-4 Ataru to keep on the move and make Grievous chase him. Obi-wan saw what his Padawan was doing so he pressed his attack at Grievous's backside. He parried Grievous's saber cut to his head and attacked with his own low cut but Grievous stepped back and kneed Obi-wan in the face before kicking him away. With Obi-wan temporarily taken out he pressed the attack on Will. Will saw this and parried Grievous six quick strikes before moving into several backflips for distance and then slid to the side to avoid Grievous' downward cut. Will then ran and flipped off a wall where he attacked with several wide cuts that Grievous blocked before he brought all four sabers down in a powerful cut. Will managed to block them all but the force made him buckle and drop to a knee.

"Kamino has fallen. Your clone army is doomed." Grievous boasted, inching the sabers closer to Will to cut him into four pieces. "And soon, your lightsaber will join your masters."

"I don't think so." Will activated his Whistling birds and the Beskar projectiles flew out of his gauntlet all around Grievous striking him in the head, back and legs. The cyborg general roared in pain as he recoiled back giving Will the chance to force push him away. Grievous slammed into a wall as Will took the Darksaber from his belt and activated the black blade. Obi-wan got back up and they attacked Grievous together. Obi-wan and Will attacked with quick attacks putting Grievous on the defensive but the injuries from the Whistling Birds were affecting his ability to defend.

Will attacked with a flurry of rapid cuts and strikes that Grievous's two arms managed to block but then one of the arms buckled when he blocked a cut, likely from damage by the Whistling birds. Will saw the chance so he moved the Darksaber with an upward cut and sliced off Grievous hand holding his former master's lightsaber. Grievous growled as he saw his lost a limb but quickly had to go back on the defensive and then tried to push an attack. Will and Obi-wan jumped back and force pushed Grievous together. Their combined power sent the cyborg general flying down the hall until he crashed into wall, making a sizeable dent. Grievous hit the ground and landed on all six of his limbs before scuttering away like the coward and insect he was. Obi-wan picked up the lightsaber Grievous lost before he and Will chased after him.

Anakin blocked a cut from Ventress and then ducked before doing a backstep and blocking her downward cut. He parried that into his own slash and then quick cut combo which she blocked before deflecting his blade away. Anakin spun and brought his saber around with a lateral cut, pushing Ventress back as they were locked before she slid back and kicked him over her. Ventress kicked back to her feet when she heard the clatter of boots and saw some clones arrive. Anakin turned and saw Fives and part of Ghost Company arrive.

"Blast her!" Fives shouted and all the clones opened fire. Anakin ducked as Ventress had to quickly block and deflect all the blaster bolts of the clones. She backstepped as she did and her once proud smirk started to waver under the heavy fire. One of the clones threw a thermal detonator and it rolled on the ground towards her. Ventress saw it as the last second and force pushed it to the side so it blew up part of the wall but the impact knocked her back. She managed to scramble to her feet and ran away as Fives rushed over and helped Anakin. "General are you all right?"

"I'm fine. Let's finish her." Anakin said and the clone nodded before they all chased after Ventress.

Obi-wan and Will ran outside the building and onto one of the bridges in Tipoca City only to see Grievous flying away on a Kaminoan escape pod. That's when one of the assault ships nearby was hit with a rocket and collapsed onto part of the bridge, compromising its structural integrity. The bridge platform Will and Obi-wan were on capsized and they both slid off the edge.

"AHH!"

Will fired his grapple cable and at the main building and it snagged onto a pipe, catching him. He swung forward and managed to grab Obi-wan's hand so the two were now dangling over the ocean. "ARGH!" Will groaned in exertion as holding himself and his master up wasn't pleasant. "You ok?"

"I'm fine." Obi-wan assured him, looking down at the ocean and seeing the bridge platform crash into the water below. "But I could swear I've been in this kind of situation before."

"Something tells me this won't be the only one." Will remarked as he saw another nearby bridge they could jump to.

Hevy, Cody, and Rex set up some small pieces of cover using crates and drew the droids attention. The battle droids marched in as Hevy stepped out and fired a quick barrage from his rotary blaster before moving back to a secondary position while Cody covered him. 99 came over to Rex with a pack of grenades and the Captain took out a few droids. Hevy provided cover for Cody to slip over to Rex and 99 tossed him a grenade.

"Cadets now!" Rex shouted.

The cadets appeared in their sleeping pods positioned above the clones and opened fire. They were in an exposed position but they caught the droids by surprise and Hevy stepped out to fight. The droids were caught in a deadly crossfire and Cody threw a grenade, blowing them to pieces. More droids entered so the cadets slunk back into their sleeping pods as Rex tossed him their last grenade. "Last one, Commander." Rex told him. "Make it count.

"I'll get more!" 99 grabbed the pack and limped away.

"99, you can't!" Rex shouted.

"I'm a soldier, like you!" 99 shouted as he kept running. "This is what I was bred for."

The droids kept on advancing with one of them managing to hit 99 in the leg. "99, NO!" Hevy got out from cover and mowed down the droids in quick succession. He marched forward and bashed a droid with his rotary blaster before throwing it at another. He tackled another droid and slammed it in the ground before taking out his DC-17 blaster pistol and shooting its head off. A droid managed to hit him in the back but his armor's lining of Commando droid metal took the hit as he turned around and blasted another droid. Rex and Cody came out to help him as 99 managed to find the strength to get up and keep running. A droid fired anther blast and hit him in the back. 99 tried to stay on his feet but he slumped down and passed away with a smile on his face. He died a soldier's death.

With the last droids dealt with, the cadets came down from their position. "We did it. We held them back."

That's when they saw Hevy holding 99's body. "But we lost a true soldier." Cody said.

"He really was one of us." Rex added and they bowed their heads in respect.

At one of the hangars where two assault ships had breached, Ventress was trying to make her escape with the Fett DNA but Anakin was hot on her tail. He jumped through the air and attacked with a flying slash before putting her on the defensive. She defended herself against all her attacks when Anakin managed to kick her in the side. With her down he force pulled the DNA cannister off her belt and into his hand.

"RAHH!" Ventress screamed in anger and attacked, pushing Anakin on the defensive and catching him by surprise with her ferocity. She landed a jump spinning back kick to his head and knocked him to the ground, knocking the cannister out of her hand. She tried to force pull it to her when a blaster bolt hit her in the hand, causing her to drop her saber. Fives stepped into view, being the one who shot her and was quickly joined by the First Squadron of Ghost Company along with other nearby clones. He picked up the cannister and hooked it to his belt. Ventress cradled her one injured hand while keeping her remaining saber up. "I suppose you expect me to surrender."

"Actually, I plan to let the clones execute you." Anakin corrected her.

"Not this time." Ventress force pushed them back before she took off running. The clones opened fire but she jumped off the edge and grabbed onto the Kaminoan escape pod Grievous was piloting. Both Separatists leaders were beaten back, their invasion force was taken out, and they left without the Fett DNA.

The clones took status of everything and while things were bad they weren't as bad as they could have been. Thankfully, there wasn't as much damage to the cloning chamber that couldn't be repaired with enough time. There were some casualties but more injured then dead. Will's preemptive position planning of Ghost Company helped in organizing the counterattack more effectively and in mitigating any serious losses. Hevy's team was able take out multiple Trident-class assault ships from their bridge overlook position while Echo's team had the best vantage point that provided excellent sniper position and allowed him to call out enemy positions. His effective if worst-case scenario planning paid off and the effectiveness of his clones proved that he trained them well. Ghost Company took some injuries but thankfully no casualties. They wouldn't always be so lucky so they celebrated the win when they could. But not all were lucky.

Ghost company was assembled in an open area outside the hangar for a remembrance ceremony for one of their fallen. Captain Rex and Commander Cody were there as well since they were there to witness the moment. Clone 99 who despite the odds proved he was every bit the brave clone as the others and gave his life in defense of Kamino.

"Company, attention!" Will shouted and all the clones stood up straight with their hands at their side as they stood before 99's body. Hevy walked over with the medal he got when he, Echo, and Fives first graduated clone trooper training and were shipped out. He gave it to 99 after he was shipped out and told him to hold onto it. 99 still had it on him even during the fight. Hevy placed the medal on 99's body and folded his arms over him before rejoining the others. "We lost a brother today. 99 may have been relegated as defective by the Kaminoans and the other clones but he showed every bit of bravery as anyone in this company in the defense of his home. He walked through a hail of fire knowing the dangers and fought valiantly. We are proud to have known him. He was our brother and fought valiantly to the end. May Mandalore look after him in the beyond and we shall honor his sacrifice on the battlefield. This is the way."

"This is the way." The clones repeated and they all gave their fallen brother a proud final salute. Hevy, Echo, and Fives took it the hardest since they were closest with 99. Despite everything, he was one of them. Maybe the best."

Two service clones then came by and took 99's body away. Ghost Company dispersed after that. Will watched his men pay this moment with the most upmost respect they had. It was a day of sadness but also a day for victory.

Obi-wan walked over to Will once the ceremony was over. "You did well today, Padawan."

"Thank you, Master. I'm just upset that Grievous and Ventress got away." He answered.

"We'll have another chance. Still, you did well against Grievous. All of your training has been well earned and it also returned something to us." Obi-wan then removed a lightsaber from his belt. It was the one Grievous dropped when Will sliced one of his hands off and it also happened to belong to his former master, Ur-Sema Du. Grievous took it after he killed her on Geonosis when the Clone Wars first started but now they got it back.

Will took the saber and looked it over. "The last time I saw this was when Grievous killed my master and took it as his first trophy." He remembered fondly. "I made myself a promise that Grievous would face justice and I would get her saber back."

"By the wars end I promise you that Grievous will face justice for what he's done." Obi-wan promised and pat his Padawan on the shoulder.

The Battle of Kamino was over with a Republic victory with the Separatists failing to get what they set out to achieve. Kamino would be rebuilt and the Separatists wouldn't mount an offensive against the planet again. Once they helped clean up on Kamino, it was back out to the war. One more victory for the Republic and another step closer to the end of the war…only the war still had a long way to go.

End of Chapter 11

I hoped you guys like the chapter. The second year of the war is almost over but there's still things to be done. Will dealt with a hostage crisis, helped Mandalore with their corruption and saved them from starving and falling to chaos while also protecting a vital planet for the Republic. Some solid wins but more to come.

Next chapter, when the Trade Federation try to strong arm Pantora to join the CIS, Will and Ahsoka help Senator Ryo Chuchi against Bureaucratic maneuvering and kidnapping. There are no lows the Trade Federation won't stoop to. After that, things get complicated as Cad Bane returns to break out Zirro the Hutt from prison. That leads to Will and his master teaming up with Quinlan Voss. That should be fun. Until then, stay safe.

I hoped you guys like the chapter. There are some moments that I liked, especially with Boba Fett. Now, obviously I haven't changed a lot with him since I still want to see the badass bounty hunter in the future but I'm thinking Will may have been a sort of good influence on him. Also, Will's work on Mandalore helped move things in a good direction going forward. His uncle still can't be trusted and the past trauma and conflict between the New Mandalorians and the old faction won't just go away but he's got things on a good path forward. But how much longer before other people don't like it? Mainly Dooku. Will's got a powerful force he commands and Sidious won't like it if it becomes more of a threat. Guess we'll have to wait and see.

Updates for November: Blue Wolf, Perfect One, and Spectacular Spider-man on November 30th.

Will Prax Vizsla, Son of Pio Vizsla, nephew of Pre Vizsla and Mandalorian by birth. Padawan Jedi. Prax: Mando'a meaning Noble Heart

Birthdate: 38BBY-Age 17

Padawan Apprentice to Obi-wan Kenobi, Former Padawan of Ur-Sema Du, Son of Pio Vizsla and Count Dooku. Nephew of Pre Vizsla. Wielder of the Darksaber. Leader of House Vizsla and the Mandalorian Defenders.

Appearance: Dylan O'Brien from Maze Runner: The Death Cure. With Padawan braid.

Clothing:

Dark blue Padawan robes and combat boots. Combat belt with Cyan Blue lightsaber.

Darksaber hooked on belt.

A black shirt, black jacket, and blue pants (Casual/Undercover)

Ancestral Mandalorian Beskar armored combat gloves and forearm guards with weapons. Necklace with symbol of Clan Vizsla.

Mandalorian Beskar armor complete with helmet, shoulder pauldrons, breastplate/cuirass, kneepads, shin guards, and cloak worn over his Padawan robes. Armor colored white and light blue. New Clan Vizsla symbol on his chest. A Shriewk-hawk claw holding a flowered branch and sword to signify a new beginning and protection.

Mandalorian WESTAR-35 blaster pistol holstered onto right thigh.

JT-12 Jetpack with attached homing rocket.

Personality: Kind, caring, quick-witted and smart. Able to adapt to situations very easily. Prone to quips to distract or enrage his enemies. Can be a bit of a smartass yet humble and works well with others. Extremely proficient in tinkering and building with electronics. Excellent pilot and mechanic. Knowledge in warfare and weapons from extensive self-tutelage at the Jedi Temple and Mandalorian training by Pio Vizsla. When triggered, can be aggressive and unhinged to a point.

Skills and Powers

Force Powers:

Force speed, Force sight, Force empathy, Force Jump, Force Stasis, Force Pull/Push, Force Throw, Force Barrier, Force Repulse, Force Precognition, Animal Bond, Mind Trick, Levitation, Lightsaber throw.

Combat Skills:

Specialized in Form 2 Makashi-Lightsaber-to-Lightsaber combat, Form 3 Soresu-Blaster counter/Defense, Form four Ataru-combines speed, strength, agility, powers, and the force for to aid in movement and combat. Training in Form 6 Niman which includes training in Form 5 Djem So and Shien. Basic Stance is Samurai Chudan or Middle stance

Adept at hand-to-hand combat.

Mandalorian gauntlets with repulsor, grappling line, wrist rockets, flamethrower, laser splicer, retractable wrist/forearm blades, shield projector, built-in communicator, holovid, Whistling Birds.

BD-8 companion droid

Rathtar Squad: Echo (Tech), Hevy (Heavy Weapons), Fives (Second in command)

Leader of Ghost Company of 212st Attack Battalion

The Tempest: A Black and Orange Corellian XS stock light freighter armed with 2 dorsal and 2 port laser batteries with torpedo launchers and modified ion launchers. Built with 2 powerful sub-light engines, heavy armored plating, and a modified/powerful hyperdrive system, making it powerful yet agile and extremely fast. Equipped with a modified stealth system that can bypass almost any scanner. Built-in cloaking system to turn the ship invisible.

XR: Modified and hacked Separatist Probe Droid

Solarboard: Home-built solar powered hover board. Agile, fast, with small twin front blasters and capable of excellent maneuverability.

Disclaimer: I don't own any Star Wars or above-mentioned properties; all rights belong to their owners.