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Chapter Text

As Obi-wan watched Jango Fett's disappear into the clouds he felt the Force hold his feet down. The council would want him to give chase, get answers, but the Force wanted him to stay. He agreed.

The walls of Tipoca city may be white, but in the Force they ran red with pain, fear, and death. He would not leave the clones in such an environment. According to the Kaminoans the oldest was only 10-year-cycles old, child soldiers made to look like adults so they could die for a galaxy they'd never known. The Kaminoans were little better then slavers. He had to stop this and hope it wasn't too late.

As he hurried back inside he pulled out his Shadow com. It was a direct link to his best friend Quinlin Vos, a top Jedi Shadow, who gave it to him against the rules. Obi-wan was such a danger magnet the council turned a blind eye, just glad he and his padawan always came back alive.

"Sup, Obes?" Quinlin asked in that too casual tone of his.

"I'm sending you a set of coordinates to an unlisted planet and several beacon numbers," Obi-wan said quickly. "They're on a Mandalorian and his modified Firespray that just left the surface. My mission was to capture him, but the situation has changed, and I am needed here. I need someone to track and capture him. Alive! There are questions that need answers."

"I'm the closest, I'll get him," Quinlin answered, beeps signaling he was punching in coordinates. "What'd he do?"

"First, he killed an assassin sent to Senator Amidala," Obi-wan answered, leaning on the force to lead him back to Lama Su; they needed to have a chat. "But more importantly, he's the template for a clone army."

"WHAT?!"

"The army is for the Jedi. It was supposedly commissioned by a Jedi Master Sifo Dyas some 10 years ago."

Quinlin sputtered, lost for words. He finally found his voice and asked: "The Separatist movement hadn't even started then. Did this guy have a vision?"

Possible, but not Obi-wan's #1 theory. "Or, someone built up the Separatists to cause a war the clones would be needed for. Your target was hired by a man named Tyranus."

Tyranus. That name probably wouldn't mean anything to other Jedi, but Obi-wan had been learning about the Sith since he slew one. Tyranus meant Pride, a virtue of the Sith. Several had tried to carry it during their Empire but had never been more then footnotes. This one seemed dead set on ending that legacy.

"That sounds Sith to me." Quinlin said that any word he didn't know, just to exasperate Obi-wan.

"For once I sense you are right."

"For once?"

Obi-wan ignored him. "I sense that the galaxy is at a dangerous juncture and what I'm about to do is going to decide what happens next."

"Whaaaat are you gonna do?" Quinlin asked, sounding both excited and wary.

Obi-wan smirked. "Something very Stewjoni."

Quinlin started cackling with delight. Obi-wan cut the call and stepped up to Lama Su speaking with two other Kaminoens. Time to cause chaos.

Lama su had a stronger spine then Obi-wan expected, given his delicate appearance, but in the end he bent. He agreed to Obi-wan to take primary custody of the troops. Obi-wan then pulled some Stewjoni and Mandalorian documents off the net he'd need signed. The Council was going to be furious. His brother was going to laugh himself off the throne.

Obi-wan stepped into Tipoca's main hanger to a jarring sight. Row after row, thousands, of troopers in identical, stark white armor standing at attention. In front were a row of troopers with slightly different armor. To his left was a smaller group with larger builds then the others and weathered armor. To his right stood a six-man team with individualized armor that matched the Mandalorian that stood with them, the only non-clone in formation. Far at the back was a loose group of Mandalorians and bounty hunters; the trainers most likely.

Coming into a room to find an army waiting for his orders was jarring enough, but Obi-wan had never encountered such a large group with such tight mental shielding. Even in the temple it was difficult to find a large group with comparable shields. But here they were near identical, giving little away. He could sense faint pockets of curiosity, apprehension, or determination, but not the loud cacophony of emotions Obi-wan was used to from this many sentients in one space. It would have been a novel experience, if not for the horrific measures taken to build those shields he could feel echoing in the halls.

One of the large clones stepped forward and saluted Obi-wan. "Alpha-17 reporting, sir."

"Greetings, Alpha..." Obi-wan paused, frowning with concern. "That's your numerical designation, isn't it? Do you, do any of you, have names?"

That seemed to give Alpha-17 pause and caused a ripple of surprise amongst those within in hearing.

"Some of the men have names," Alpha-17 answered, trying not to fidget. "I go by Alpha, sir."

Obi-wan nodded in acceptance. "Thank you, Alpha. Please proceed."

The clone nodded, falling back into soldier more. "All combat ready troops are ready for inspection."

"I can see that," Obi-wan said with a wry smile. "But this is not an inspection." A breeze of curiosity from the men around him. He raised his voice to fill the hanger. "I am here to inform you that none of you will be required to fight in any war." Shock rang out loud, almost deafening from so many minds. "I have looked over the contracts and spoken to the Kaminoans. You are a remarkable fighting force, a credit to your trainers, but there has been a grave error: The Jedi cannot be you generals."

A spike of anguish and fear. Images of dead children flashed across his mind. All wearing the same blank face. Dear Force! What was that?! Obi-wan needed to fix that as soon as possible. First, putting the men at ease.

"Calm down!" He called, putting a bit of force into his words. It probably seemed silly to an observer, none of the troopers so much as twitched, but their mental shields slammed back into place. "Whatever is causing your fear shall be dealt with; I will allow no harm to come to any of you." Some of the men genuinely calmed down, the rest kept their shields up. "I, on behalf of the order, have already taken custody of you. Legally, no one has the right to do anything to you without our consent. And anyone who does will have to deal with us." He'd put it a bit more bluntly then he usually would, but with a group trained by Mandalorians it worked well.

One of the troopers from the line in front stepped forward. "Sir, requesting permission to speak."

"Granted."

"Sir, if the Jedi won't lead us in battle, who will?"

Obi-wan held back a sigh. He had to be patient. These men had been designed and raised for war, it would take them time to understand.

"Should you be called to battle," he replied to the crowd. "You will lead your own. By Republic law the Jedi cannot serve in or form an armed force, which means we do not have the training needed to lead you. Only a handful of Jedi have even set foot in an active warzone." He tried not to dwell on the fact that he was among them. "But know that if war does indeed come only those who choose to will fight. We do not allow the enslavements of sentients within the Republic, and war will not compromise this."

"Your words might not stop your Senate," the Mandalorian spoke up. Obi-wan can feel their contempt for him leaking into the force.

"Agreed," Obi-wan agreed. "Which is why I am taking extra precautions. Who among you can represent you in a legal matter?"

The troopers looked around, clearly uncertain. One of the front troopers at the front started elbowing the one who'd spoken. He elbowed back, a few shifting; they must be talking. The first one shoved him forward. His shoulders lowered in defeat. He pulled himself to attention and stepped forward.

"CC-2224," He said with a salute. "Marshall Commander Cody. My fellow Commanders have elected me representative."

"I see," Obi-wan chuckled. Commander Cody stepped forward as Obi-wan pulled out his datapad. "I need you to read over this and sign. We will need a third-party witness." He raise an eyebrow at the Mandalorian. He stepped forward, curious.

"What is it?" He asked, trying to read along with Commander Cody.

"A Stewjoni alliance agreement," Obi-wan said, restraining him smug grin to a small smirk. "Folding the troops into Clan Kenobi. Once we all sign I just need the official stamp from the clan Chief."

"They'll do it?" the Mandalorian asked. "Let you take a million eyayah'e into the clan without asking first?" Eyayah'e, that meant Echos; was that from the The wish cave legend?

"My brother has given me permission to use the clan name and laws whenever I see fit," Obi-wan said, unable to withhold his grin. "He delights in seeing us mentioned in galactic politics. And he's been nagging me to contribute to the future of the clan. A million sons will keep him off my back for some time."

"Sons?" Commander Cody asked, voice breaking. "We would be your sons?"

Obi-wan nodded. "Chronologically none of you are of age, so until we could figure out how to classify you I would be your legal guardian as your sponsor. You needn't call me fa-"

"You want us?" Cody interrupted, hands shaking and overwhelming wonder leaking through his shields. "As part of your family? You don't even know us. We have no blood."

"Aliit ori'shya tal'din," Obi-wan said, shocking them both with his grasp of Mando'a. "Family is more then blood, and knowing you will come in time. As a Jedi it is my sworn duty to protect all life, and if doing so gains me a family more the better. If you wish, I can recite the Gai bal Manda."

"You'd do that?" Alpha asked, his shields slipping to reveal a blinding hope, edged with grief and old pain.

"What do you call yourselves?" He asked the Eyayah kindly. "Do you go by Eyayah'e? Or something else?"

"Vode," Cody choked out. "We call ourselves Vode. Brothers."

Obi-wan smiled and nodded, stepping away from Cody and the Mandalorian so the Vode could see him. "Forgive me for not doing this properly by using each of your names. If you wish I can do so at a later time. For now: Ni kyr'tayl gai sa'ade, Vode." Shock filled the room. "I know your names as my sons."

Cody sank to the floor, Obi-wan and the Mandalorin catching him under the arms and lowering him down. He yanked off his helmet, tears streaming down his face. He looked up at Obi-wan in wonder and adoration.

"Buir," he whispered.

Children. Under the armor and training were children in need of a loving parent, but never expecting to find one. He could feel their cautious hope, their wonder and instant affection. The Force sang out for Obi-wan to take care of them and he happily agreed.

"Udesii, Ad'ika," he whispered, gently gripping the back of his neck and pressing their foreheads together. "I am here."

Chapter Text

After getting the needed signatures, Obi-wan had dismissed the men to inform their brothers; and deal with their emotions. While only a few had collapsed or broken down like Cody, they were all feeling overwhelmed. A quick conversation with Cody revealed that most of the trainers and Kaminoans had convinced them they were expendable products, not real people. Obi-wan would be firing them in short order. Possibly out of a laser cannon.

A few had distinguished themselves by approaching Obi-wan and offering to stay on and help the Vode transition. Mostly Mandalorians, Obi-wan was impressed with their ability to disguise and put aside their instant dislike of Jedi. Cody shadowed him the entire time and surprise leaked through his shields at some of the trainers. Apparently, they'd been among the harsher ones. Obi-wan got a sense there was a story there, but he needed to table that for the moment.

First, he had some forms to file.

Lai Wo, a surprisingly emotive Kaminoan, offered to be Obi-wan's liason. She led Obi-wan and Cody to a private Com room. He asked her to set up an office for him to review flimsiwork as well as see that rooms were prepared for him and the other Jedi he would be summoning. She seemed pleased with the tasks and proud of Cody with a healthy dose of fondness. She'd do just fine.

"Would you like me to step outside, Sir?" Cody asked after Lai Wo left.

"Obi-wan," The Jedi corrected, connecting his com to the room projectors. "Or Buir, if you wish. I am your guardian, Cody, not your superior. I know it'll be hard to adapt, but it will help. And I'd like you to stay to give your input on what we discuss. You're representing your brothers, after all."

Cody gave a shy smile, not meeting Obi-wan's eyes but glowing with warmth. "Ok, Obi'buir."

Warmth and fondness bloomed behind Obi-wan's breastbone at the word. He was a dad. Now to tell his family.

"First we'll be speaking with the council to give my report," Obi-wan explained to Cody, punching in the com number. "Then my brother on Stewjon. I need him to formally recognize the claim and then spread the word to find openings. He should be able to have jobs and homes available for any Vode who wish to settle on Stewjon."

“They'll get to choose?" Cody asked, surprised.

Obi-wan nodded. "As citizens of Stewjon you have the right to choose what you do with your lives. Do you feel comfortable meeting the council without your helmet?" He knew some Mandalorians only felt comfortable bare faced with people they trusted, and he could see that transferring to the Vode.

"Thank you," Cody said, his gratefulness for Obi-wan considering his comfort making his signature warm. "But I'm fine without it."

"Then let us give our report."

The Council were understandably distressed by the news of an entire army built for them. They'd be going through all their information on master Sifo Dyas. The rest of the meeting was efficient and quick, following Cody's professional lead. When the council began asking how the Vode were treated Cody started to struggle, barely fighting off flashbacks. Obi-wan ended it after that, telling the council he would investigate and give a thorough report. Masters Plo Koon and Shaak Ti, along with several knights and a few healers, would be sent to join him.

“Are you well enough to continue, dear?” Obi-wan asked kindly, hand resting on the commander’s shoulder as he recovered in the seat Obi-wan made him take.

“You really didn’t know?” he asked in a small voice, not meeting the jedi’s eye. “About us? That’s why no one came to check on us. None of you knew.”

Obi-wan felt his heart break. “I’m afraid so. If Fett hadn’t left behind a dart covered in Kaminoan we might never have found you. I’m so sorry.”

Cody shook his head. “No,” he said firmly, putting his own hand on Obi-wan’s. “No, it’s not your fault, Buir. In fact, it’s a bit of a relief. It means the Jedi weren’t neglecting us, weren’t responsible for the….abuse we suffered. Some of the vode resented we’d be serving people who would do that to us and never check in. I know we’ve got a lot of scary questions to answer about who really commissioned us and why but knowing it’s not the Jedi means we really can trust you. With everything.”

“Always, dearest,” Obi-wan said gently. “Do you feel up for another call?”

“To Stewjon,” Cody confirmed. “To formalize our…adoption.” He glowed with delight to say the word. “How-how do you see that going? I mean, will they be…okay? With you doing this?”

“Very well,” Obi-wan promised. “My brother delights in my shenanigans, as he calls them. My family loves smothering my padawan in affection and mother is constantly harassing all her children to give her grandchildren. They will love and welcome all of you.”

Cody took a deep breath, his emotions swelling again. It was warm and bright, but overwhelming. It felt like he would cry if given any more affection.

“He would love to meet you,” Obi-wan said gently. “But if you feel overwhelmed, he will understand. You can rest in your bunk or see your brothers. It is your decision.”

That amazed, overwhelmed swelled. Obi-wan kept forgetting they never had choices before, or their emotions considered. Obi-wan rubbed his shoulder and gently pressed calm toward him. His shields were strong, but wavering in his emotional state, Obi-wan made sure to hold back. After a few moments, he calmed again.

“I-“ Cody began, voice soft. “I would like to meet him. But, if he’s anything like you I’m not sure I could handle it right now. Emotionally. If it’s acceptable, sir, I’ll wait outside. I..um…” he flushed, not meeting Obi-wan eyes. “…I’d rather not leave your side…Obi’buir.”

Attachment. He could feel a strong bond forming between them. By the code he should cut it, but how could he? The only thing these men had ever had claim over was each other, their brothers. If Cody and his brothers wanted to claim him Obi-wan would let them. He would give them the stars if they asked.

“I will let you know when I’m done,” He promised.

Cody nodded and stepped outside, pulling on his helmet.

Obi-wan punched in the code to the Kenobi clan castle. Orin was never near the com room, he preferred to run their lands in person, so someone would have to get him. Their father, Kar-Wan’s study was in the same hall so he might answer, if he wasn't fishing. The best-case scenario was one of Obi-wan’s sisters, Magnola or Finola; they were twins with enough force ability for a telepathic link between them and one of them was always near Orin as his aides. The worst was his youngest brother, Cahal, who was an unending fountain of questions. Or his mother, Aifric. She'd lose her mind over this.

The call connected and a stout, kind faced women with arms of steal and fiery curls answered. Her face split in a large smile, freckles stretching across her button nose. Oh no.

"Obi-wan! La math," she called with delight.

Obi-wan sighed, resigned to a chaotic conversation. "La math dhuibh, mother."

"How are ya, love?” She said, suddenly frowning with motherly concern. “You're looking a mite peaky."

“It’s the lights, mother,” he sighed, she always said that. “This place is a bit…austere. Where’s Orin?” He needed to move this along.

“Not sure,” She said, frowning in thought. “We just had mid-meal so he should be nearby. Give me a mo’.” She leaned to the side and took a deep breath, giving Obi-wan just enough warning to cover his ears. “ORIN! GET YER ARSE IN HERE! YER BROTHER IS ON THE COMM!!!” The Kenobi lungs, how the crechmasters had bemoaned them.

There was a shout back: “Don’t shout, mum.” And then a man who looked like a shorter, broader version of Obi-wan with impressive sideburns appeared. “The whole bloody planet can hear ya.” He turned to Obi-wan and grinned, the same crooked smile Obi-wan was known for. “Obi. Good ta see ya. What chaos have ya sown now? Kolarn wants one more great epic to finish off xer album. A real corker." Kolarn was their second youngest sibling, a mediocre musician who turned xer career around by becoming Obi-wan’s “official bard”; xer songs could be heard in every drinking establishment Stewjoni got drunk in, which was any they stepped foot in.

Obi-wan couldn’t suppress his smirk. "I may have it for xer,” He answered, earning a delighted laugh from their mother. “I've finally done what you're always asking me to do."

“Learn te talk normal?” Orin kid, earning a swat from their mother.

“Babies!” She declared, half joking and melo-dramatic. “At long last, real grandchildren! Not tha’ I don’t love Ani—my sweet, grateful boy—” he ate everything she put in front of him and absorbed every hug, kiss, and kind word like a sponge. “But I have ta share him with the temple, and Yoda is a right greedy bastard.” The two had a rivalry over who got to shower Anakin in the most affection; Obi-wan knew them both well enough to keep out of it and left his padawan to soak up the love.

“Actually,” Obi-wan said, letting his face answer.

Their mother squawked in delight.

“Oi,” Orin complained, swatting away her attempts to hug him in joy. “What poor soul ya knock up?”

“No one,” he corrected, glaring at his brother. “I’ve adopted.”

“Where are they?” She called, pushing Orin behind her. “I want to meet me grand kids.”

“One of them is just outside. Cody,” he nodded toward the door. “He's a bit overwhelmed. You see, he and his brothers were being raised as an army for the Republic against the Separatist movement.” Mother covered her mouth in horror, Orin looked furious. “However, I hope to prevent the war. First, by making these 1 million clone soldiers Stewjoni citizens of our clan. I have the documents here waiting for your approval, Orin, then I'll bring them home."

Mother looked like she was going to cry, staring at Orin in anticipation. Orin himself looked stricken. He turned away, obviously trying to process, rubbing his face in contemplation.

He turned back and gave Obi-wan a hard look. "Ya had to find the most ridiculous way to become a da, didn't ya?" He asked, sounding annoyed.

"Is that a No?"

"Course not, ya git,” Orin said, dodging his mother’s smack. “Send me the documents, I'll have 'em filed by morn' here and call a session of the Council of Clans. I suppose you'll be needin' us to find 'em housein'? Work as well?"

"For the ones who wish to stay on Stewjon, yes,” Obi-wan agreed, frowning. “Considering they've been trained to be slaves, for all intents and purposes, I want them to choose their own futures. Are you alright, mother?" She looked stricken.

She let out a wounded sound, making Orin pull her close in worry. "I won't be able te knit all their sweaters me self,” she said, sounding forlorn. “I'll have te get the whole clan te help me." Orin rolled his eyes and shock his head, letting go.

"They don't all need sweaters, mother," Obi-wan sighed, rubbing his face to hide his smile.

She scowled, pulling herself to her full height; roughly 5’ 2”. "They bloody well do!” She declared hotly. “You give me 1 Million grandsons and I am knittin' every single one of them a sweater. Even if it takes the rest of me days, each of those boys will know their gran loves 'um."

Obi-wan smiled, warmed. Obi-wan had thought he’d known familial love from the temple until he and his master were sent to Stewjon on a mission and he met his birth family. They had welcomed him with open arms and hearts, smothering him with affection. When his mother learned Jedi naturally ran cold she made sweaters for all his lineage and friends; even Count Dooku got one, as far as he knew. If she could, she would give the whole galaxy hand knit sweaters and hearty stew. The woman was an endless fountain of love.

"You will make them cry," Ob-wan warned, remembering his first gift from her.

"Aye,” She agreed, and gave him a warm smile. “But they'll be happy tears, won't they?"

"Aye," He said, seeing a fond nod from Orin.

"Now,” she said, straightening out her dress. “I have 1 million sweaters te start knittin'. You,” She pointed at Orin, who chuckled. “Get yer brother what he needs. We have lads te take care of."

"Yes, mum,” Orin said, rolling his eyes as she left the comm sensor and turned back to Obi-wan. “I'll get everyone workin'. You call us when yer on yer way."

"Tapadh leibh, Orin,” Obi-wan said with a bow deserving of the chief of his clan. “Mar sin leat."

"Mar sin leibh an'drasta, Obi,” Orin said, bowing back. “Ya mad bastard."

Obi-wan chuckled as he ended the com call. He punched in the last commands to send the files to the Kenobi castle. He took a breath and just enjoyed the warmth he always felt when he spoke to his birth family. He knew the Order had very good reasons for removing initiates from their families, but he always felt he could have benefited from knowing his family as a child. Actually, the whole temple could have benefited from the Kenobi clan being allowed to visit and share their boundless affection with the Temple. Well, at least he knew the Vode would be well loved.

Straightening his robes, he disconnected his com and left the room. Outside stood Cody, bucket on and emotionally recovered. With him was the Mandalorian that had served as witness to his adopting the Vode. He hadn’t been amongst those that had promised their help before so Obi-wan was curious to see what he wanted now. The two seemed to be having a conversation that ended as he came out.

"All done, Cody,” he said, smiling warmly at his first son. “Orin is making arrangements for the Vode to come and mother is knitting everyone sweaters. I imagine she'll be at it for a while."

Cody choked, shock and wonder flooding out of him until his shields snapped into place again. "Go-good to know, Buir,” he said, his vocoder failing to hide the way his voice cracked with fresh emotion. He and mother would end up in a sobbing cuddle pile when they met. “This is Trainer Kal Skirata, he taught tactics and is Commander of the Null squad.”

“Su cuy’gar, Trainer Skirata,” Obi-wan said in greeting.

"You're serious about protecting them," Skirata said, his vocoder and shields rendering him unreadable.

"I promised them, didn't I?" Obi-wan fired back, meeting the challenge he knew was there. “Haat, ijaa, haa’it.” The words fell easily from his lips after so many years, reinforcing it with the Force.

Skirata was silent, either stunned or considering his words. After a few tense moments he pulled off his helmet. Underneath was a middle aged man with a pleasing but weathered face, graying hair, and eyes set with determination and certainty.

"I have information that might help you,” he said in a measured tone. “The Kaminoans broke Fett's original contract."

Chapter Text

Anakin was trying to release his nerves into the Force as they rode the lift to the Naboo Senatorial suite. The side eye Obi-wan gave him said he wasn't succeeding. He tried for a few more moments, but as the floor numbers ticked up it just got harder. He could stop thinking about what would happen when they reached the top. He hit the stop button between levels and turned to his Oide; his teacher. Obi-wan turned to him with a comforting smile.

"I'm nervous," Anakin burst, so glad his voice didn't crack with the outburst.

A slow smirk appeared on Obi-wan's face. "Hello, Nervous. I'm-"

"Daaaa," Anakin whined, exasperated with his dad and Oide's antics.

"It's fine, Anakin," Obi-wan chuckled, taking his hands. "This is a woman you've had strong feelings about for half your life. It's natural to be nervous to see her again."

Anakin blushed, embarrassed by the reminder of his childhood crush on the young queen. Under Granny and Grand-Yoda's council he'd let go of the infatuation, transferring it to some of his peers in the Order and Clan. He'd learned to flirt well from his dad and even gone on some nice dates, but nothing serious. His dad had made it clear that marriage was something Jedi could have, so long as his partner understood that the Order had to come first on most matters, but he was still undecided if it was for him. His feelings for Padme had changed to admiration and respect as she made a name for herself in the Senate. She was tidal force for change and compassion in the Republic, everything Anakin hoped to work for when he became a knight.

"Please tell me your worries," Obi-wan asked, opening their bond to help him sort his feelings so they could be released.

It was a practice Obi-wan had been late to learn—Oide Qui-gon had been an advocate of ignore your mental health by keeping busy—but learning it together had helped Anakin see Obi-wan wasn't such a perfect Jedi he couldn't reach out to him. His own failures had seemed so much worse to his Oide's apparent perfection in that first year. Their lessons with the mind healers and becoming part of Clan Kenobi had helped him see his Dad as a person, not an unreachable ideal.

"I'm worried I'm not up to the mission," He said, laying out his fears. "That my skills aren't enough, or the assassin is better."

"We will do this together," Obi-wan assured him. "We will do all we can and trust in the Force to be strong where we are weak. Breath." Anakin did, and released the worry, feeling marginally lighter.

"I'm worried about making a good impression," He admitted. "She fights for everything I believe in, so I know we'll end up working together in the future. I want her to see me as someone she can rely on and see as a peer someday." He shrugged with a small smile. "Once I've learned more."

"A reasonable desire," Obi-wan complimented; setting reasonable expectations was something there were both learning, Obi-wan struggling a bit more then Anakin. "And easily accomplished. You are young, but strong, good, and sensible. Your training had prepared you for diplomatic meetings, trust in it and yourself."

He breathed the fear away. "I'm worried I'll make a fool of myself. Say the wrong thing or trip or something."

"I would like to think my padawan would never be at a loss for words," Obi-wan teased, earning a chuckle. "But if you need help you only need let me know. As for tripping: just trust your steps to the force and don't think too hard on it."

Anakin breathed the anxiety away and came to the last one. The one that was the hardest to admit: "I'm worried she won't remember me."

"Impossible," Obi-wan said, pulling him into a hug. "You saved us on Tatooine and Naboo; and have always been much too charming for your own good. It may take her to recognize you--you're at least twice as tall--but she will remember you, Anakin."

He let him go and smiled, earning a smile in return. Anakin released the last of his nerves to the Force and relaxed. Obi-wan let him go and waited for him to collect himself. Once Anakin felt centered, he nodded to his Oide. Obi-wan smiled and hit the button to resume the lift.

Just before the door opened, he said: "I'm worried we'll end up shadowing her to a Senate function I can't get shit-faced at."

Anakin burst out laughing at his disgusted face. After that there was no opportunity to feel nervous as Jar Jar Binks met them at the door. Padme had asked him to be her aide and representative of the Gungan people, which he was proving fairly good at. He was delighted to the Jedi pair and quickly ushered them into the main room where Padme was speaking to Captain Typho, her head of security. She had the look of an army commander speaking to her troops, but it was swiftly replaced with joy as she turned to the Jedi.

"Obi-wan," she greeted, interrupting his bow to clasp hands. "It's been too long."

"So it has," Obi-wan agreed. "Those talks on Shurina were certainly educational."

"A lesson in how pedantic politicians can be," She huffed, rolling her eyes at the summit 3 years ago where they'd last met; Anakin had been grounded to the temple for accidently causing a mouse droid rebellion.

"All lessons have value," Anakin said, stepping up to them with a cheeky grin. "Even if they only teach you how to pretend not to fall asleep in the face boredom, right Oide?"

"Brat," Obi-wan grumbled. His friend Siri Tachi had been on the mission too and had delighted in telling everyone at the temple how the illustrious Obi-wan Kenobi had fallen asleep standing up.

"Ani?" Padme asked, eyes wide. "My goodness, I almost didn't recognize you."

"I've gotten taller," He said, a burst of quiet amusement from his dad traveling down their bond. "But you I would recognize anywhere. You still look like the angel who helped rescue me from Tatooine."

Padme blushed, but smiled. "I seem to remember you saving all of us," She said, tucking a stray hair behind her ear. "Twice." Obi-wan's pride and smugness came in waves.

"Agree to disagree, Senator," Anakin said with a bow.

"Please call me Padme," She insisted. "I'm pleased our paths have crossed again, but I must you both that I think your presence is unnecessary."

"The Council has their reasons," Obi-wan said, trying to sound sage-like, as he did whenever he didn't know the answer.

"Chief of which is your opposition to the Military Creation Act," Anakin provided, always up in the latest Senate and the Order's official and unofficial opinions on them. "Peaceful negotiations are the way forward, not war, but too few in the Senate understand the tragedies of armed conflict."

"Too true," Obi-wan sighed; all 3 of them had seen more than their fair share of it. "Our presence will be invisible, my lady."

"I am grateful for your presence, Master Kenobi," Captain Typho said, stepping into the conversation. "The situation is more dire that the Senator would like to admit."

"I don't need more security," Padme insisted. "I need to know who's trying to kill me."

"We're here to protect you, Padme,” Obi-wan reminded her. "Senate Security is leading the investigation."

Padme's frown showed her opinion on that matter. Honestly, the Order wasn't impressed with Senate Security either, but they didn't want the extra work. It already felt like they did more than their fair share of law enforcement and diplomacy in the Republic. Sometimes Anakin wondered how a religious order came to be so involved in the running of government.

He sent a request to speak to Obi-wan, which he granted with a note of caution.

"The attack falls squarely within the jurisdiction of Senate Security," It is not within our power to take over the investigation. However," he said cautiously, checking with Obi-wan who encouraged him. "should a lead be found while we protect you it could be within our mandate to follow it. As the senior Jedi it would be Obi-wan's decision to make."

"A lead?" Captain Typho asked, skeptically. "Like from another assassination attempt?"

"They may try again," Obi-wan answered, a flash of annoyance sent along their bond for Anakin throwing him under the speeder like that; and at himself for letting it happen. "And tracking down the assassin would be the most effective way of removing the threat. But it would depend on the nature of the lead, should one materialize."

Padme didn't seem happy with that answered but nodded her acceptance. "Then let us hope this assassin returns."

"Or not!" Captain Typho protested.

The force ignored Captain Typho and the assassin struck again, that very night. Anakin and Obi-wan dealt with the unfortunately poisonous bugs—Anakin hated killing animals—and chased after the Assassin. After a harrowing game of tooka and womp rat through the mid-levels of Coruscant, during which Anakin took a few short cuts Obi-wan didn't approve of, they caught the assassin. Only for her to die before she could answer any questions from a dart to the neck. Obi-wan easily recognized the armor and took custody of the dart. Senate security would be hopeless tracking down a Mandalorian and they knew it, so they happily dropped the whole thing in Obi-wan's lap.

Knowing there could be a Mandalorian after her, the Council and Chancellor insisted Padme go into hiding until Obi-wan could track down the mysterious Mandalorian. Anakin would be accompanying her to Naboo, on his first solo mission. He and Obi-wan a good hour working through their worries until both felt confident. Before they left the planet Padme had a few matters to take care of in case she missed the vote. After stressing to Jar Jar that they were staunchly against the act, no matter what, they went to the Senate to check in with her allies. The last was Bail Organa.

"Padme," He called, leaving his overloaded desk to meet her, folding her hands in his. "I am glad to see you're alright. Breha and I have been so worried."

"Thank you, Bail," Padme said, smiling at him. "And you needn't be, attacks are simply part of the job. How many assassination attempts have you survived, after all?"

"Too many," he agreed ruefully. "But it's not something you want to build a tolerance of." He turned his smile to her Jedi shadow. "Good to see you, Anakin. I was pleased to hear you and Obi-wan were assigned my friend's protection. I know you'll take good care of her."

"Happy to serve, Senator," Anakin said politely. "And it's good to see you too. Sorry I haven't come by recently."

"Test season hits everyone this time of year," Bail said, waving him off. "But we're looking forward to having you back in the office when it ends." Anakin bowed in acceptance; he missed the office.

"You two know each other?" Padme asked, happily surprised.

"Obi-wan's brother Orin and I were in the same program and dorm at University," Bail said brightly. "He insisted we meet when I became Senator and we've been friends ever since. He always brings Anakin when they visit the Senate and usually find me at the SLC. Anakin's experiences and insight have proven invaluable in building our policies."

The SLC was the "Slave Liberation Commission", an organization within the Republic that worked to end slavery in the galaxy. It was just in its infancy when Anakin came to Coruscant but had grown rapidly. He liked to believe Bail when he said Anakin helped, but that was doubtful. Watto had been a pretty mellow master and his mother sheltered him from the worst of it. The people in the field and working legislation and the Senate were doing much more, but it would be rude to disagree with his mentor.

"You're too kind, sir," Anakin said, then changed the subject. "He's C-3PO?"

Bail rolled his eyes with a good-natured smile. "Same as ever," He chuckled. "You certainly gave him a chatty personality. But he's been a big help at our station on Tatooine."

"C-3PO?" Padme asked, then remembered. "Oh, the protocol droid you were building. You went back to Tatooine?"

Oh, maybe this wasn't a good subject change. "Yes," Anakin said sadly. "To free my mother. Unfortunately, Watto lost her in a bet shortly after we left." He didn't mention who took her, it still gave him nightmares.

"She's listed on our special interest list," Bail reminded him kindly. "All our agents are keeping an eye out for any information."

Anakin nodded with a small smile, not expecting much but thankful for his concern. "Obi-wan and I were able to liberate my sister and later helped the SLC free the planet from Hutt control. It's now a central hub for the freedom trail and the Jedi Agri-core are in the process of terraforming it."

"You have a sister?" Padme asked, wide eyed with surprise.

"We never mentioned her?" Anakin chuckled, happy to talk about her. "Her name is Baru. Watto couldn't really afford to keep three slaves, but he waited until I was old enough to work in the shop to sell her. She went to work in the maintenance halls of Jabba's palace. When Obi-wan adopted me into Clan Kenobi he took in Baru too. She lives with the clan on Stewjon and is in charge of all the droids on the estate. She's also engaged with Uncle Orin, the clan chief. The wedding is in half a year."

"Congratulations," Padme said, recovering the parade of emotions their talk put her through. "I hope I get to meet her someday."

"I think she'd like that," Anakin said, warmed by the idea of two such important women in his life meeting.

He smiled softly at her. She smiled back, tucking a stray hair behind her ear. After a moment Bail cleared his throat, making them both jump. He gave them a knowing smile as they apologized. He just laughed and had them sit so they could get down to business.

The public transport to Naboo was crowded and worn, but nicer than some of the other crafts Anakin has been on during his apprenticeship. He knew Padme was used to nicer things as a former queen and sitting Senator, but she took it in stride. Anakin leaned a little on the Force as he carried his and Padme's plates back to where she sat with R2 on guard. She was looking out the window with a contemplative frown on her face. She'd worn that expression since they left Bail's office, like she carried the whole galaxy on her shoulders; in some ways, maybe she did. Anakin knew his job was just to protect her, but maybe he could help sooth her, even as just someone to talk to or distract her. His dad said he was good at distractions.

"Here you are, Senator."

"Padme," she reminded him for the 5th time that day, taking the offered plate. "And thank you, Anakin, but you know R2-D2 could have done that. Food retrieval is hardly work for a Jedi."

"Padawan," he reminded her teasingly. "And our duty is to serve where best we can. Besides, I wanted to check on the mother by the counter; her baby was having trouble adjusting to the pressure change so I offered a little help."

"That's very kind of you," Padme said, proud.

Anakin waved her off, digging into his food. "We live to serve. At least according to the-"

"Eugh!" She burst, yanking a utensil full of yellow mush from her mouth. "This is disgusting. How can you eat it?"

"Is it?" He looked down at his nearly finished portion. Padme nodded emphatically. He ducked his head sheepishly. "Sometimes I can't tell. Aayla says the twin suns must have burned all my taste buds off. Here, I'll take it. Can't let food go to waste."

Padme let him scrape the yellow vegetable mush off her plate and onto his. "You're really okay talking about," she observed, not taking her eyes off him, and missing him giving her the fresh green sprouts in exchange. "Your time on Tatooine, I mean."

He shrugged, nodding at her to start eating again. "With people who already know, or I trust. I learned my lesson when I started telling my agemates about the Locust festival and someone fainted," He gave a self-deprecating chuckle. "Most people in the temple can't quite wrap their head around the idea of an entire celebration based on eating bugs," Padme's face showed she felt the same, he laughed. "Thank the Force for Aayla. I couldn't ask for a better friend. She's a few years older, her Oide is Obi-wan's best friend Quinlan. She was a slave before he and his Oide rescued her. Neither of us have to worry about shocking each other with our stories and jokes; it's helped a lot."

"I'm glad you round that,” she said, enjoying her green sprouts. “I used to worry about your transition to the temple."

That surprised him. "You worried about me?"

"Of course, Ani," She said, touching his hand; he felt his cheeks warm. "You're my friend. Meeting you, getting to know you and your mother, set me on this path. I became a Senator to put a stop to slavery and help people wherever I could."

Anakin smiled. She was so bright and determined in the Force, he could imagine her rearranging stars just by strength of will. And she seemed so much lighter now, reminded of her goals instead of her obstacles. He was glad he'd been able to help her with that. He hoped his dad figured out who was behind the attacks so she could get back to her fight in the Senate. They needed people like her to keep them honest.

Chapter Text

Naboo was a beautiful as he remembered. Coming here after Tatooine and Coruscant had been a shock as a child. So much water and greenery. Coruscant had been loud with life, jarring and unpleasant; it still was at times. But Naboo was his encounter with what the living force was really about: life, unrestrained and thriving in its natural state. It had soothed a part of him he hadn't realized was raw. Hopefully, it would do the same for Padme.

The talk with the Queen upon their arrival was pleasant and Padme surprised him by saying she already had a place to go. He knew as her protector he should have figure that out himself and established security, but he managed to stop himself before he said as much. His education had focused more on diplomacy, single combat, and force abilities, not security. Honestly, he knew he was to be the Senator's last line of defense, not her first.

The Lake country was amazing, and Anakin wasn't ashamed to admit he was mesmerized by the one their villa was perched on.

"It's just a lake," Padme chuckled when she found in the same spot she'd left him in half an hour before, eyes wide with wonder.

"I just can't get used to so much water in one place," He said with reverence.

He head snapped to her as a sense of shame filled her force signature. "No, it's fine," he said quickly, trying to assure her. "I am being silly. I've seen a lake before. The temple has a whole room full of fountains and artificial lake where we all learn to swim. It's just...I grew up on a desert planet. Lakes will always be miraculous to me."

Her shame evaporated, replaced with fondness and joy. "Being able to find wonder in things is a good thing."

Anakin blushed, feeling bashful. "That's what Grand-Yoda says. It's still embarrassing to be caught slack jawed over a body of water." He shook it off and smiled back. "So, what do we do now?"

"Shouldn't you decide that?" She teased, following his lead on subject change. "As my protector?"

He leaned into stage whisper: "Between the two of us, I think you know more about this planet and what we can do safely." She giggled and nodded. "My job is to sense threats and stop blaster bolts. For the rest I will follow your lead, Senator."

"Padme," she reminded in sing-song. "Then will you join me for a picnic? I know a lovely spot just over the hill." She held up a basket overflowing with delicious looking food.

He took the basket and offered his arm. "With pleasure, Padme."

The meadow was indeed lovely, full of wildflowers and content shaaks. The basket had a blanket they laid out to eat their sandwiches, fresh fruit, and other treats; simple and delicious. Padme had been delighted when a pair of young shaak had decided to settle on the edge of their blanket, drawn in by Anakin's Force presence like most animals were. He couldn't help showing off by convincing a family of curious Vulp to sit with them, the kits curling up in their laps for petting. Her happiness made her glow like the stars, beautiful and warm.

"I think I needed this," Padme sighed, stroking her dozing kit's ear. "A break from the stress and the politicians. The Senate is supposed to be the heart of the Republic, it's guide and moral compass, but it’s so mired in its own nonsensical rules nothing ever actually gets done. Sometimes it feels like I'm trying to make a river run backwards."

"That's always a pain in the bum," Anakin chuckled, wincing. "Obi-wan and I have had to do it more than once for a mission. Great way to put out fires. It's hard, but it's better than letting the forest burn."

“Yes, it is," Padme agreed, giving him a smile full of gratitude for understanding. She caught herself and turned back to the kits. "I'm glad to hear you're working with the SLC. They do great work, but I've always thought they could do more with support from the Order."

"It's an honor to serve with them," He delighted to talk about his third favorite topic; Mechanics and his family came first. "They're doing what I always dreamed of as a child: breaking up slave rings and freeing people. The Order would love to do more," he scowled at the ground, making the Vulp tense. "But the Senate keeps us too busy. Working in the Senate building, I get the feeling some of the senators order us around just because they can, which keeps us from where we're truly needed." He took a breath and released his irritation, everyone calming back down. "Not you, of course." he earned a smile for that. "But the SLC is inspiring people to take action. To fill the holes we can't. Obi-wan says that when I'm knighted, I can request assignment with them. Senator Organa has been keeping me up to date on all their missions, legislation, and protocol to improve my chances."

"That sounds like Bail," she replied with a fond smile. "I don't know where I'd be if he hadn't taken me under his wing when I arrived at the Senate." A frown crossed her features. "Speaking of, he mentioned you visiting the Senate building on a regular basis. What brings you there? We rarely see Jedi in the building beside Master Billaba." Oide Windu's former padawan that served as liaison between the Senate and Jedi council on day-to-day matters.

Anakin balked. "Oh, uh," he stammered, thrown off, but managed to scrape together some words. "The Chancellor. He...he took an interest in me after Naboo. He's been mentoring me in senate affairs ever since."

Her frown deepened. "You don't seem happy about that," she observed.

"He's really nice," he defended quickly, remembering she was friends with the man. "And he's really helped me understand politics and listened to my troubles, but sometimes..." he paused, uncertain how to word it. "It's just hard, I guess, having an older man take such an interest in me so young. On Tatooine, when that happened, it was always bad, and sometimes kids didn't come back. Not that he's ever done anything like that!" He said quickly, not wanting to get the man in trouble. "We just talk. He invites me to Senate events and informal meetings to learn. It's been an incredible opportunity, it's just..."

"He seems too invested?" She prompted with an understanding smile. "In a child? Seems to enjoy sending other adults away just a bit too much?" At his nod she gave a sad smile. "I've begun to think the same." She looked down at the kits in her lap, leaning into her hands as she pet their growing manes. "I was about the same age when he took an interest in me and my political career. My childhood was safe and sheltered so the idea of him hurting me never crossed my mind. But it should have occurred to my parents or teachers. Everyone was more then happy to leave me with him with no supervision, this older man we'd never had contact with before. Nothing ever happened, but still." She sighed, raising her head to look Anakin in the eye, almost begging him to understand. "Sometimes I get the feeling he liked that he could, that if he chose to hurt me no one could stop him. The power. That's what did it for him. It's completely unfounded, he never did do anything, but I just can't shake it anymore."

"Now I won't be able to either."

"Sorry," she said, ducking her head in shame.

He caught one of her hands, holding it until she met his eye. "I'm kidding," he assured her, earning a small smile. "I'm glad you felt you could share that with me. The mind healers say talking about trauma helps ease it, that sharing the trauma makes the mind heal. Thank you for letting me lighten your burden."

Her warm smile reappeared, warming his heart, and she squeezed his hand. "Thank you for letting me lighten your's as well."

Things were almost painfully peaceful. It was nice, but Anakin could feel the faint ripple of disturbances in the Force from far away. His unease grew each day they spent exploring the countryside and reading by the lake, nothing happening to explain the feeling that something sinister was afoot. It was making him antsy, and meditation wasn't helping; the ripples felt like waves when he submerged himself in the Force.

Then, one night, he awoke to a steely, driven presence in the villa. It was coming from Padme, but not from her room. It was so much like how she'd felt on Coruscant he became worried. He rose and found her on veranda with a small, handheld comm in hand. She was dressed in s scarf, duster, and goggles that disguised her well enough he would have taken her for an intruder if he couldn't sense her. Standing on the comm was the transparent blue figure of a weequay pirate with a large hat. A weequay pirate Anakin knew. Hando Ohnaka had been both friend and hinderance on several missions for him and Obi-wan. Since learning of Obi-wan's sabacc skills he'd decided the jedi was now a dear, dear friend, no matter what Obi-wan thought on the matter; Anakin thought it was hilarious.

The pirate was speaking: "-Contact was able to get the woman's name. It was most definitely Shmi Skywalker."

Anakin barely held in a gasp. Ohnaka had found his mom? Why was he telling Padme? How did he know her? Why was she dressed like that? What was going on?

"And you double checked the info?" Padme pressed, using a deep Corellian accent. "I don't want a repeat of Rutan."

"That was not my fault," Ohnaka protested. "But yes. The great Hondo went himself. I know how serious you have taken this search and did not want to disappoint my favorite hunter."

"Favorite?" Padme mocked; her acting was good. "You mean best paying."

Cannot both be true?" Ohnaka laughed. "And speaking of payment..."

"Half for the info and introduction," she confirmed, pulling out a data pad. "The rest if it pans out." She hit a button and a few moments later Hondo checked his own pad.

"Always a pleasure, my friend," he cheered, bowing with a flourish of his hat. The call ended.

Padme sighed, stowing the com. She peeled off the scarf and goggled, stowing them in the duster's pockets. She turned to the archway and froze, shocked to see Anakin standing there. He felt a bit bad for ease dropping, but they were talking about his mom. After a moment he walked over and stopped right in front of her. He didn't know where to start.

"I've found your mother," she burst, a cautious smile on her face. "She was just bought from a market on Florum and my contact knows where they went."

"Hondo Ohnaka," He provided, still stunned. "He's a friend, of sorts...You've been looking for her?"

Padme nodded, stepping closer. "I joined the SLC after my term as Queen ended," she explained. "My senatorial work lets me travel all over the galaxy in a ship with diplomatic immunity, and Naboo is close to the hub on Tatooine. I smuggle people to freedom when I can, but most of my work is going into communities and getting citizens to pressure their leaders into signing on with the SLC. I also have a persona as a hunter and middle woman amongst the pirates and bounty hunter circles to get information. When I learned Tatooine was liberated, but not your mother, I sent the word out that I was looking for her. I've had so many leads," she said, sounding pained. "But I keep missing. I keep failing her."

"No," Anakin said, taking her hands to comfort her. "No, Padme, you haven't. You're trying, you're looking, and for my people that is everything. If the pirates and bounty hunters know then so do the slave, and so will my mother." He squeezed her hands, his heart overflowing with admiration for the woman in front of him. "I've seen what that knowledge inspired in those we free. It gives them the next best thing to freedom: Hope. Hope will sustain my mom until we find her, Padme. And we will find her."

Padme pulled him close, clinging to him and she cried into his shoulder. He held tight, feeling his own tears fall. This remarkable woman had spent years searching for his mother. Hiding her face, risking her career, in order to free people, yet felt a failure for missing just 1. She was battling the Senate to try and stave off war even under the threat of death. He felt unworthy to stand in her presence, let alone hold her in her moment of weakness. But right then she needed a shoulder to cry on, someone to hear her struggles and dry her tears, and he was honored to do so.

When she cried out all the stress she'd been carrying she pulled back, but didn't try to leave his arms.

"Sorry for that," she said softly.

He shock his head. "You've been carrying these burdens for a long time," he counseled, pressing their foreheads together. "Thank you for letting me ease them."

She chuckled, leaning into his hand as he stroked her cheek. She really was as beautiful as he remembered. An angel sent to speak for those who went unheard and save those who had been lost. He tilted his head as she leaned closer, lips meeting in a soft kiss. It was gentle and warm, tasting of honey and pear. As easy as breathing to pull her closer and drink in her presence. The kiss broke only for a new on to begin, then another, and another. Passion burned between them like a candle, but their kisses were filled with comfort and affection. There was no rush or need for more, just a sweet intimacy in the blissful quiet of the night.

Padme pulled back, breathing hard, pressing their foreheads together as worry creased her brow. "Wait," she whispered, confused. "I thought Jedi aren't supposed to have relationships."

"No," Anakin corrected gently. "Attachment is discouraged. Relationships that come before our vows to the Order and the Force. Few Jedi can find partners willing to accept that their duty comes first. When they do, when they decide to make that commitment, the Order celebrates. The Force has blessed them with a partner to fill their heart."

"You make it sound so romantic," Padme teased, her cheeks stained pink.

"Isn't that what Love is supposed to be?"

"Geonosis?" Obi-wan asked, sounding skeptical.

"That's where Captain Ohnaka said," Padme confirmed as Anakin programmed the hysper space jump. "Shmi's buyer was headed to Geonosis. Apparently, they went around the local markets buying female slaves for a small auction for high end clients that can't risk the regular markets. I expect to see some recognizable faces, and to take some holos for use later."

"A member of the SLC," Obi-wan chuckled, shaking his head. "You are full of surprises, Padme. I want to advise against this, but I doubt you would listen."

"How very astute of you," Padme praised.

"Do you have a plan?"

She nodded. "Hondo has sent an introduction for my persona, Porta Nattal, and her assistant in the stead of a perspective buyer. We're going to stop by Tatooine to pick up a protocol droid to translate, one of my cover ships, and a disguise for Anakin. Bail is having an assault team readied to raid the auction once we're clear and a medical transport for the survivors. We also have judicial on standby to process the criminals one they're subdued."

"It seems you have this well in hand," Obi-wan observed, impressed. "My only concern is if Anakin is comfortable heading into this situation. It will be you first time in a slave auction since your own liberation, dear one."

"I know, Oide," Anakin said, taking a breath. "But I've talked with Senator Organa and the refugees enough to know what to expect. Senator Amidala and I have already established a signal to leave the area if I become overwhelmed or sense a threat, and the assault will be just minutes away. I know this isn't how you wanted my first mission with the SLC to go, but we've been preparing me for this sort of mission. I'm ready."

"Very well," Obi-wan said, smiling with concern. "I trust you to know your limits and capabilities. Protect the Senator, and yourself. And tell your mother I am eager to finally meet her."

"Thank you, Oide, I will," He agreed, warmed by his dad's concern. "We'll see you later."

"May the Force be with you, Anakin."

"And you as well, Da."

Chapter Text

Mij Gilamar was the first of the trainers to approach Kenobi when he dismissed the Eyeyah'e. Kal wasn't surprised. Mij had gotten the same pitch from Fett as him, which had then changed unexpectedly. Two others had left the Cuy'val Dar when that happened, replaced with Dread Priest and Isabat Rau. Not Kal's first choice, but he got along with them. Mij couldn't be in a room with Priest for more than a few moments without a fight breaking out; especially if there were Eyeyah'e around.

Walon Vau and Rav Bralor led a group of other Mando'ade and a surprising number of bounty hunters (2) next. Like Mij, the expressed their desire to help the Eyayah'e. 22 trainers were up for sticking around. The rest were sick of Tipoca city and ready to get back to their lives.

Preist and Rau gave the Jetii a wide berth, glaring daggers at the serene man. Kal couldn't blame them. He'd been fighting his own instincts to shoot the Jetii down on sight. He'd lost 3 family members on Galidraan. But he'd gained 6 on Kamino. His ad'e were his entire universe, he'd do anything for them. If working with a Jetii was what it took to keep them and their vod'ika'e safe then he’d do it. But he wouldn't like it.

He was directed to the meeting room hall by Lai Wo; she seemed happier than he'd seen her since the decommissioning started. Cody was standing just outside, buy'ce on but body loose with distraction. Kal walked up and he snapped to attention.

"At ease," he instructed, the commander shifting to parade rest. "Kenobi in there?"

"Yes, sir," Cody said. "He is speaking with Chief Kenobi on Stewjon, formalizing our...our adoption."

The word was filled with such wonder Kal realized how profound it had to be for the boys. And how much he'd screwed up by letting the plan change. They shouldn't be so desperate for recognition from the people planning to use them as cannon fodder. He'd tried his best to instill a bit of caution in them concerning the Jetiise; he might have failed with this one.

"Don't forget, verd," He said gruffly. "They wanted this army to-"

"No, sir," Cody cut him off, which was a shock. "I stood with Obi-buir when he spoke to the jedi high council. Not one of them knew we existed. They didn't do this to us."

It was like a punch to the gut. Kal had always been suspicious about Fett agreeing to work with the Jetiise, but his first plan had made sense; it was all a trap. He'd been confused when that changed without a satisfactory explanation. After that his attention had been on protecting his Nulls and training the rest as best as he could to keep them from being decommissioned. There'd been no time for serious questions, but maybe he should have some.

Kenobi exited the room, a pleased smile on his face as always. Again, Kal was reminded how attractive Kenobi was: soft red hair, stormy blue eyes, high cheek bones, an athlete's build, and the way he carried himself spoke of an intimate understanding of how his body moved only found in dancers and warriors. Kal could easily imagine taking a tumble with him, pinning him down and taking him apart, or letting him take control. But the damn Jetii'kad ruined it, glinting innocently at his hip. Kal had always had a thing for Stewjoni males, but not enough to get past Kenobi being a Jetii.

He turned to Cody and said brightly: "All done, Cody. Orin is making arrangements for the Vode to arrive and mother is knitting sweaters for everyone. I imagine she'll be a while."

Cody choked, all his training flying out the window in the face of such open affection. "Go-good to know, Buir," he said, voice cracking. He quickly changed topic to hide his embarrassment: "This is Trainer Kal Skirata." He nodded at Kal. "He teaches tactics and is commander of the Null Squad."

"Su cuy'gar, Trainer Skirata," Kenobi said in smooth Mando'a with a Kalevala accent.

Kal tried to ignore how nice it sounded from his plush lips. "You're serious about protecting the Eyayah'e?" He asked instead, putting some challenge in his tone to hide his attraction.

Kenobi scowled a little, standing straighter to meet that challenge; he looked good annoyed. "I promised them, didn't I? Haat, ijja, haa'it. I will not take my last breath until the Vode are truly free."

Kal could feel the strength in the promise, a brush against his mind saying he'd committed to it in his Force as well. He was dead serious. He would do whatever it took to protect the Eyayah'e, what Kal had failed to do. If he was willing to try, then so could Kal. He removed his Buy'ce and locked eyes with Kenobi, letting his mental shields down just enough to prove the truth of his words.

"I have information that should help you," he said in a measured tone. "The Kaminoans broke Fett's original contract."

Cody jolted, just the slightest, and Kenobi blinked owlishly; he suddenly looked much too young and cute. After a moment he schooled his features back to Jetti neutral and stepped toward Kal. It was hard not to flinch away from the Jetii, harder still when he felt the brush against his mind to confirm his words. He pulled his mind back and gave a decisive nod.

"I'll need details," Kenobi said in a low voice only the other two would be able to hear. "But not here. We'll go to my office." He had an office. Since when?

As if on que, Lai Wo appeared. She approached them with a mildly quicker step them normal--still the fluid sway of her species--and seemed to be holding back a beaming smile. She bowed to Kenobi, smiled at Cody, and then gave her usual nod to Kal.

"I have arranged rooms and established an office for you," she told Kenobi, seeming pleased with herself. "It is near the rooms for you and the Jedi delegation and close to the Vode barracks." Kal was surprised to hear her use the term, she never had before, but maybe Kenobi's presence was making her feel bold.

"Thank you, Lai," Kenobi said warmly. "How long would it take to compile a list of all the Vode? Including their chosen names, medical histories, and possibly shirt sizes."

"A list of names and designations is available at your office terminal," Lai Wo responded, curious. "The rest of the information should be simple to compile. May I ask why you need their sizes?"

Kenobi grinned. "My mother is knitting sweaters for them all. I imagine she'll rope most of the clan into it soon enough."

Kal had never seen a Kaminoan smile as wide or as bright as Lai Wo in that moment. He worried she might hurt something. "How wonderful," she almost sang. "I will get that ready at once. If you follow me to the office?"

"Thank you," Kenobi responded.

Cody and Kal stepped in behind him as they follow Lai Wo.

Kenobi's office was a meeting room rearranged to accommodate a desk and com terminal. He and Laio Wo had gone to the terminal to compile and send the list while Kal and Cody scanned the room for bugs. They hadn't discussed it, Kal had just pulled out his scanner once the door was shut. Kenobi spotted it, nodded, and made a point of talking through the whole process to cover any noises Kal made, Cody following Kal's lead. They found three. They finished just as Kenobi sent out the files.

"Clear?" Kenobi checked.

Kal checked with Cody then nodded, wondering where Kenobi learned Mandalorian security protocols. Lai Wo sat as well, watching them all with eager eyes. Kenobi scrutinized her for a moment, gave a nod to himself, then turned to Kal. Looked like Lai Wo was staying.

"Now, how did the Kaminoans breach Fett's contract?"

Lai Wo cocked her head, surprised, but also sad. That it happened surprised her, that her people did it didn't. She'd always had an unbiased opinion of her people.

"Fett recruited me 10 years ago," Kal began, falling back on the many times he imagined explaining it to someone who could help; he never imagined it'd be a Jetii. "There were 10 of us recruited from the remains of the Ha'at Mando'ade, the True Mandalorians, in order to train all the Eyayah'e that didn't meet the Kaminoan's standards into Verd. They were going to become the basis of the New Ha'at Mando'ade."

"What?" That surprised Lai Wo.

"He was going to keep the Vode?" Cody whispered, his face unreadable.

"More then that," Kal confirmed. "In private he showed me and Mij Gilamar, our head medic trainer, a loophole in his contract that would allow him to take all the Eyayah'e right out from under the Republic. He loathes the Jetiise for what they did on Galidraan, but ultimately he knows the Republic sent you with orders to attack and choose the New Mandalorians to take over our system, erasing our culture. He wanted to take away their army just before a war broke out and watch the Republic fall."

"Not a bad plan," Kenobi acknowledged, stroking his beard. "The Republic would have to call an emergency draft, alienating planets already considering leaving the Republic. Of course, this assumes the Sepratists have an army of their own."

"He seemed confident they would," Kal said, trying not to think about how soft that beard would feel; this man was too pretty. "The first few batches didn't seem to have any mutations, aside from a few cosmetic things. Before the 4th trooper batch was decanted we could tell there were several who wouldn't meet regulation and were ready to begin their training. However, the Kaminoans wouldn't give them up." He turned to glare at Lai Wo, even though she hadn't been there. "They said they could never allow substandard products leave their facility."

Kenobi and Cody turned to her as well. She seemed to shrink under their scrutiny. She rubbed her fingers, nervous, sad, and tried to speak. She opened her mouth twice before finally finding her words.

"Please understand," She began imploringly, locking eyes with each of them as she spoke. "Our society is the result of a tragedy that we as a species have never truly recovered from, in my opinion. A great flood nearly drove us to extinction and only through the radical use of selective breeding and cloning did we survive. Since then, our culture has become obsessed with genetic perfection that is only now coming into question. I do not excuse Lama Su for his actions, as his views are cold and immoral. I merely ask that you do not paint all of us with the same brush. We are endeavoring to make changes, but without a catalyst it takes time."

"Thank you, Lai Wo," Kenobi said, nodding in understanding. "I will keep your words in mind as we move forward." Kenobi turned back to Kal, a barely contained brush fire of anger in his eyes. "How did Fett react to this?"

"He was furious," Kal said, easily remembering the rage Jango fell into when it happened. "He nearly killed Lama Su. He told me to watch Boba and went to get the Eyayah'e from where the scientists took them."

"I remember that," Cody recounted to Kenobi. "He got in a shouting match with one of the scientists in the mess hall. Boba was crying." He looked at Kal. "He handed him to you and took off. We never knew what it was about." He returned his attention to the Jetii. "He was gone for 4 days."

Kal nodded. "When he came back, he was...different." It hurt, how he'd changed. "Cold, hostile, impatient with everyone but Boba, and even with him he was harsh. I was part of the Ha'at Mando'ade when Jaster adopted him, I watched him grow up, and this wasn't like him at all. He refused to acknowledge the Eyayah'e where he was naming them the week before, and completely forgot about the original plan." He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, feeling the old pain surface. "That's when we learned about the decommissioning, and one of my boys was taken." He'd been such a curious, kind soul, the first to comfort the younger ad'e when they struggled.

"Decommissioning," Kenobi repeated, horror on his tongue. "That's what you were all afraid of when I told you the Jedi would not lead you."

"You could sense that?" Cody asked, worried.

Kenobi nodded. "As well as a very clear," he gulped, looking pained. "Very distressing image." He looked at Kal. "The original contract. Where is it?"

Kal scowled at the floor. "When I asked to see it after Jango changed it was completely different." He growled, still angry. "But Jango made sure Mij and I both had valid copies in case something happened to him. Unfortunately, we didn't think our copies could supersede his word so we've never been able to do anything."

"Wise," Kenobi agreed. "Depending on the way the contracts are worded we may be able to prosecute the Kaminoan government, or at least the project directors, for breach of contract and murder; or as close as we can get." He turned to Lai Wo with worry scrunching his brow. "Hopefully, we can focus on those in charge, instead of the workers who merely followed orders like yourself, Lai."

She shook her head. "Whatever is needed to see justice done," She said firmly. "This lawsuit could be the catalyst my people need to finally change." Kenobi bowed his head in thanks.

"Should I get the contract?" Kal asked.

"No," Kenobi said, waving him off. "I'm afraid I'm not familiar enough with the law to properly parse it. It will be better the wait for my padawan. He has been working with the Slave Liberation Commission and thus knows the law far better. He will best know how to use it should anyone try to negate my claim." He had a small smile of pride on his lip; too pretty. "For now, our focus should be on preparing the Vode to Leave Kamino. I assume it will not be as simple as loading them and some supplies into ships and leaving."

"No," The other three said at once.

Kenobi chucked. "Then first we must-" A beep from his robe cut him off. He pulled out a clearly special issue com and checked the small screen. "It's knight Vos," he told them as he placed the com on the desk. "The one I sent after the Fetts. I could take it on my own, but I sense it will be more efficient to have you all hear it as well."

The others nodded their agreement. Kenobi accepted the call and a miniature human male appeared. He had dreads, a kiffar clan tattoo across his handsome face, and a sleeveless tunic matched with a pair of mid-forearm gloves. He could have passed for a handsome spacer, if not for the Jetii'kad on his hip.

"You didn't tell me it was Jango Fett, you whore," He said to Kenobi, nearly knocking the others out of their seats with his crude language; Kal didn't think Jetiise knew how to swear.

"We have an audience, Quinlan," Kenobi sighed, the sigh of someone who had been putting up with an insufferable but dear friend for a long time. "You know him?"

"If I survive this," Vos said, shaking a finger at Kenobi. "We're going to have a discussion on why you, of all people, should know who Jango Fett is. Anyway," he shrugged, putting his hands on his hips. "I scouted out the complex and wow, am I glad it's me, not you, over here." He chuckled humorlessly. "I did not want to have to save your ass from this pile of shit."

Kenobi raised an eyebrow. "What's the situation?"

"I'm on Geonosis. Remember those planets that are talking about separating from the Republic?" Vos said, starting to use his hands to talk. "Well, their leaders are all here on Geonosis to look over their new DROID ARMY." He stressed the words, which was warranted; if they hadn't already been considering the possibility they'd all be shocked. "Looks like since the Senate won't give them what they want they've decided to go to war. And you will never guess what else: Nute Gunray is here, that dipshit from the Naboo Crisis, and your Grandmaster, Count Jan Dooku,” He huffed out a breath, looking alarmed. "Darkness was pouring off him like a fountain. It's freaky."

"Oh dear," Kenobi said, eyebrows trying to hide in his hairline.

"This is insane," Vos burst, throwing his arms up. "And the worst bit is that this is the first I'm hearing about it. None of our Shadows or Republic Intelligence have reported so much as a whisper. This whole operation had to take years to set up, probably since Naboo, and we didn't even know."

"About as long as they've been building this army for the Republic," Kenobi said, rubbing his face and looking suddenly twice his age.

"Yeah," Vos sighed, a similar frown of his face as he rubbed his left hand. "Your theory someone has been getting both sides ready for a war seems to be panning out." He huffed, hands on his hips again. "Again, I'm glad it's me out here. I've deflected two scouting parties since we've been talking, and the tunnels were lousy with Geonosis hiding near dormant in the walls." Vos shook his head. "Anyone less than a 5th year Shadow would have been caught by now, and the Order would end up triggering the war to save them." Vos rubbed his neck. "Fett still has one tracker on him so I'm going to try and snatch him and his kid when I head back in. I need to slice more info from the databank, but then I'm out," He gave Kenobi a pointed look. "With or without them. I know you want answers about the clones, but anything I get on this faction and their forces takes precedence." He shrugged and let out a rueful laugh. "Also, I don't want to end up in their arena."

"Arena?" Kenobi asked, looking worried.

"Geonosians are pretty famous for how they execute spies," Vos explained with a shrug. "They throw them in their arena to fight to the death against other prisoners or wild animals they get from across the galaxy. I hear they've had Vornskr." He gave an exaggerated shiver. "Obes, what's wrong?"

Kenobi had gone pale with fear. "Anakin and Senator Amidala," he said, horrified. "They contacted me just before I arrived. They are on their way to Geonosis right now."

"Of FUCKING course," Vos shouted, throwing his arms up. He folded himself in half, breathing deep. He stood back up and glared at Kenobi. "What's leading your padawan into the rancor's den THIS time?"

"The Senator is part of the SLC and got a lead on Anakin's mother," Vos's eyes went wide. "They plan to go undercover to find her. If they're captured, Nute Gunray will insist they be executed. He's had a vendetta against the three of us ever since Naboo." Naboo? As in the Naboo crisis? That was Kenobi and his padawan? By Manda, this was the Sithslayer!

"Shit shit shit!" Vos cursed, pacing as he smacked his head. "Do you know how far out they are?"

"No," Kenobi said, obviously stricken. "They had to make a stop at Tatooine. They have a strike team and a medical transport for support, but they have no idea what they're flying into. I'll contact Senator Organa and see if he can get in contact to brief them."

"OK," Vos said, nodding to the ground as he seemed to come up with a plan. "OK. I'll try to scan for their ships and head them off." He raised his head and pointed at Kenobi. "I need you to call in reinforcements just in case. They have two full armies here, if we're found we're dead."

"The council is sending a team here," Kenobi said, pulling out another, standard com. "I'll see if I can divert them there a send a battalion from here."

Vos sighed, shaking his head in displeasure. "Don't like the idea of a big battle, but alright." He smiled a conspiratorial smile at Kenobi. "If that happens, try not to die so I can kick your ass."

Kenobi smirked right back. "Try not to die so you can meet my sons."

"Nooooo!?!" Vos burst, shocked. Kenobi nodded. Vos threw his head back with a booming laugh that caused static in the transmission. "You absolute madman! May the Force by with you and your new kids, you whore."

"Takes one to know one," Kenobi fired back automatically. "May the Force by with you as well."

He ended the call and finished the message on his other com. He took a deep, calming breath. He slipped them both into his robes. Finally, he noticed the three shocked sentients in the room with him. He tilted his head and raised his eyebrow in question.

Kal shook his shock off and found his voice: "He's...not what I expected of a Jetii."

Kenobi snorted. "Quinlan Vos is not anyone's idea of a proper Jedi, but few can do his job better." He frowned, worried once more. "If he says he needs support we must provide." He turned to Lai Wo. "Please send out a call for volunteers to meet us in the hanger and start supplying a ship." She nodded and left, pulling out her com.

Kal stood as Kenobi started punching things up on the terminal. "Will you lead them?"

"While I have experience in warfare," Kenobi answered, a scowl on his face from what he found. "I suspect leading an army of trained soldiers will require a steeper learning curve then we have time for. Do you have alternatives?"

"First," Kal said, holding up a finger. "At some point we're going to have a chat about your experience-"

"We'll see," Kenobi demurred.

"-second," Kal went on. "Yes. One of the tactics trainers should be able to lead if it comes to a battle."

"That will do," Kenobi nodded and turned to the thus far silent commander. "Cody, who do you believe the Vode will be most comfortable following?" At his raised eyebrow Kenobi explained: "I don't want undue stress put on them in an already dangerous situation."

Cody took a moment to consider, then gave decisive nod. "Trainer Skirata is acceptable," He answered, surprising Kal. "He's always been strict, but never cruel, and the way he treats the Nulls has always assured us he sees us as people, not expendables like some of the others."

"Thank you, Cody," Kal said, knowing he could never fully express the gratitude he felt at Cody trusting him with the life of his brothers. "I will do my best."

Kenobi nodded, but then seemed to remember something. "Your investigation into Fett's change," He said, troubled as he worked on the terminal again. "I sense we should start on that immediately before the evidence is lost. Is there someone you trust to take the lead?"

"Mij Gilamar," Kal answered without hesitation. "He's been conducting one as well. More into the situation with the Eyayah'e and their modifications then Fett, but we've kept each other apprised of our progress. I can hand off my notes to him as well as A'den and Jaing, two of my boys that have been assisting me in my investigation. They've explored nearly the entire facility and have found several areas that are worth further investigation."

"Good," Kenobi said with a decisive nod. "The Jedi team is coming in two ships. I'll have one meet us on Geonosis and the other will come here. They should be able to open any doors the Kaminoans keep shut. Cody, will you be coming?"

"Where you go, I go, Buir," He answered with a divisive nod; exactly what Kal expected, and he found he agreed.

"I assumed as much," Kenobi said with a wry smile. "Prepare to leave. I'll contact the Jedi team and then meet you to brief at the hanger."

Kal and Cody saluted, earning a hesitant one in return, and were off.

Chapter Text

Quinlan was going to kick Obi-wan's ass. He recognized Jango Fett's signature ship, Slave 1, on sight. Heavily modified Firespray? Ha! The thing barely looked like the factory model. Every Shadow knw Slave 1 and Fett's armor on sight so they could avoid them. And the Obi-wan had to send him after the infamous Jedi Killer, the whore.

With beacons Quinlan didn't have to get anywhere near Fett's ship and happily followed from well beyond his sensor range. Skipping the hyperspace lanes, Fett cut through systems in short jumps that Quinlan just barely kept up with until they reached Geonosis.

The dust ball planet was infamous for its arena and not much else; the buggy inhabitants liked their secrets kept. Fett dropped right into their hanger. Oh good, more dangerous questions to be answered. Well, Quinlan couldn’t exactly land next to him, so he set up his radar jammer and dropped into a shallow canyon.

A collapsible speeder took him to the structure and Force Suggestions kept him hidden as he investigated. He didn't see anything in the tunnel he found, but he still kept his suggestion up as he snuck around, which was good. He only noticed the dormant Geonosians when one twitched in their sleep. Nearly gave him a heart attack, but he kept his head and made it to the factory. And wasn't that an eye opener!

Massive machines building B-1s, droidikas, and other battle droids on an alarming scale. Obi-wan owed him big! This was an army! an army he'd never heard about, which was just nuts for the Order's top shadow. He had to get more information.

After slicing into an unmanned (unbugged?) terminal he got all he could on their construction and numbers onto a data stick, but it wasn't everything he needed. There was no information on who the army was for, the people footing the bill, or if there were other factories. The Force pulled at him, hopefully toward a terminal with better info.

Nope! Quinlan soon found himself looking down on an occupied war room. He recognized everyone but the bugs from the latest reports of the Separatist movement. It was a who's who gather of people who hated the Republic, and that bitch Nute Gunray was one of them. Obes would have been in big, big trouble if that guy got hold of him. He'd have demanded Obi-wan be thrown into the arena to die.

Quinlan was just wondering hos best to arrest them all when the unnecessarily big doors opened, and the room went quiet. It felt like Quinlan had been doused with ice cold swamp muck, cold, stinky, and slimy. It was the Dark side, but more alive and potent then he'd felt from any temple, artifact, or Darksider he'd had the dubious pleasure of encountering. It had to be a Sith.

Count Yan Dooku of Serrano entered the room.

What the fuck!?! Obi-wan's Grandmaster had turned Sith? And the way others reacted he was clearly in charge. Sithspit! Quinlan DEFINITELY should have been known an older master of the Order had fallen so far. This was really freaking bad!

And then, of course, following Dooku like a pet was Fett, a kid at his side. Typical! Obi-wan sends him to pick up a bounty hunter and it turns out he's working for a Sith ready to start a war. Good thing the Republic had an army at the ready on Kamino. YEAH RIGHT! No way they could trust that with the template running straight for the obvious enemy as soon Obes came snooping. Quinlan had to get this intel to the Order, incomplete as it was. With a Sith and THE Jedi Killer running around here he didn't like his odds of reaching a high security terminal to get better intel right now. He'd report and try again later.

Obi-wan had pulled a Plo Koon. Adopting kids out of unsafe situations was a favorite of the old master and Quinlan wasn't the least bit surprised his friend had done the same. It was such a ballsy, bullshit move. Very Stewjoni. He fucking loved it!

Back to business. He needed to sneak back into the factory and find a terminal with better information to the Separatists. He pulled out his ear com and set his astromec to scan for incoming ships and alert him before heading back. In getting out he'd found a tunnel that was a near straight shot from the war room and took it again. He figured that would have the best info.

The Force was on his side. The meeting was just finishing when he returned, and the room cleared out. Keeping his sense wide open and his "see me not" suggestion up, he slinked down to the terminal bank. Finding the primary terminal, he started slicing through their laughable security. Arrogant to assume no one could- oh, there was real security. A trap that would trigger alarms all over the facility and then make the terminal explode if the correct code wasn't entered in under a minute. Quinlan almost set it off but caught it in time. He got to the intel and had to bite his lip from swearing up a storm.

The was just one of over a dozen droid factories on various Separatist worlds, with weapons, ships and live generals ready to launch at a moment's notice. This wasn't for a small battle; they were going to declare a galactic war on the Republic and try to take over. And what was this Death Star thing? This was way, way outside what their politicians said they wanted.

They had valid complaints against the Senate and wanted to form a new government to better serve their people. From Quinlan knew the Order were unofficially in favor. In fact, there had even been talk of reaching out to create a new Order within the Confederacy from members native to those worlds. Quinlan's former apprentice Aayla was currently on a mission to collect opinions amongst the Separatist worlds about the possibility. Oh boy, if war broke out, they'd need to get her and her team out fast.

Adding the intel to the data stick and tucking it into his hidden pocket, he logged out and removed all traces of his activity. Thanks to his gloves there were no fingerprints to clean up and he quickly left. Safely hidden in the tunnel, he checked the beacons on his com and found Fett was in the hanger with his ship. One of the ship beacons went out as he watched so Fett must have started finding them. He was probably pissed, but he was also in what the facility schematics said was a pretty isolated so this was Quinlan's best chance to grab him and his son; no way he left a child alone in this mess.

dodging the minimal patrols--who needs regular patrols when the bulk of your army was SLEEPING IN THE WALLS WAITING--he arrived at the hanger. Fett was cursing quietly as he tried to yank off a beacon from the underside of the ship. It looked like one of Quinlan's, the ones that only came off with a special solvent. His kid was standing guard, comfortable with his blaster but not his post; he was too tense, radiating nerves, and eyes darting around in fear. He seemed to like this place as much as Quinlan, which was not at all!

Sneaking up on a twitchy kid with a blaster was a good way to get shot. He needed to approach this carefully. Quinlan stepped out of the shadows, broadcasting his presence to the kid and raising his hands to show he meant no harm. The kid spotted him at once.

"Buir!" The kid called, raising his blaster at Quinlan and holding it steady; yeah, he knew how to use it.

Fett scrambled out from under the ship, hand flying to his holster. He spotted Quinlan and pulled his blaster but didn't shot. A good start.

"Hey there," he called, stopping a safe distance back.

"Who are you?" Fett growled.

"Quinlan Vos," he said jovially, but keeping his hands up. "Friends call me Quinlan, or Quin if we've banged."

"There's a child here," the kid deadpanned, lowering his blaster a little, mouthy, Quinlan liked him.

"Which is why we're talking instead of fighting," He agreed. "Can I take my hands down?"

"No."

"Okay."

"What do you want?" Fett asked, putting himself between Quinlan and his kid.

"For starters, to ask a question," Quinlan said, getting ready for an explosive reaction. "Why are you working with the butcher of Galidraan?"

"What?!"

"Count Yan Dooku," he explained. "He led the attack of Galidraan that destroyed the Haat Mando'ade; your people."

"No," Fett said, voice breaking. "That was another Dooku. There are 9 of them."

"12," Quinlan corrected. "They're all dicks, but this is the one that led the attack." He could feel blistering anger slipping past his shields.

"You're wrong!" Fett shouted and started blasting; the kid wisely ducked into the ship.

"He taught me Makeshi for 2 years," Quinlan fired back, using some moves from the style to pull his saber and deflect a bolt. "I'd know his mug anywhere."

"Jetii bastard! He was only one," Fett shouted, avoid a reflected bolts as he reached for answers. "They all took part."

"Look, I saw him after Galidraan," Quinlan shouted, falling into Soresu to protect himself; he was starting to see why Obes liked this form. "I saw all the survivors. The others were distraught after they learned your people were innocent, some renounced their sabers, but not Dooku." He pulled out his best impression of the dower master. "Mandalorians are barbarians, the galaxy is better for their deaths." Back flip out of danger. "He says he left, but really the council kicked him out of his bigotry. They haven't had to do that for like 300 years." Turn, deflect, don't fall over the rock! "You went and allied with the first Jedi reject in centuries. The man who destroyed your people!" Deflect, duck, summersault away from fire; who gave this psyco a flame thrower?! "And now he's a Sith! What the hell were you thinking?!" That last outburst came straight from the Force; it was pissed.

The whole fight Quinlan had been gaining ground on the famous Bounty Hunter. Maybe the conversation was throwing him off, but it felt like his movements weren't as natural as they should be. He seemed to be struggling, Quinlan shouldn't have the upper hand like this. Suddenly he dropped the blaster and fell to his knees with a cry of pain. Fett yanked off his helmet and clutched his head. He was broadcasting pain like an alarm.

"What's wrong?" Quinlan asked, lowering his saber to his side. This could be a distraction tactic, but it didn't feel like it; also wasn't Fett's MO.

"What did you do to my Buir, Jetti?" Fett's kid growled, appearing with his blaster leveled at Quinlan's head.

"Nothing," He replied, deactivating his blade to put the kid at ease. "I didn't even scratch his armor. Something’s wrong with his head. Did he get a head injury recently?"

the kid hesitated, thinking. "Maybe...When he fought the other Jetii? But he didn't say anything."

"If it was bad enough, he might not have noticed," the kid nodded his agreement. "Will you let me help him?"

"Why should I trust you?" The kid growled. "How do I know you won't hurt him?"

"That other Jedi is my friend," he answered, slowly edging toward where Fett had curled into a ball of agony. "He wants you and your dad back to answer questions about the clones. He adopted them."

The kid's eyes went wide, and he lowered the blaster, jaw going slack. "He...he adopted my brothers?" The wonder and hope he radiated nearly blotted out his dad's pain. "Is he going to make them fight?"

"Knowing Obes," Quinlan said with a smile as he drew closer. "Probably not. He's the kind of guy who will do everything in his power to give them the best life. And getting you and your dad back there to help him understand the clones will help a lot. Now, will you let me help him? He's in a lot of pain."

He bit his lip, thinking hard. Fett had to have raised him to hate Jedi, but Quinlan and Obi-wan were probably the first ones he'd ever met so he couldn't have a real opinion of his own yet; and he was at that age when he started questioning his dad's lessons. At the same time, his dad was in pain, just holding back from screaming, and there weren't a lot of help at hand. The Geonosians might not know how to treat a human and Dooku and his cronies were not to be trusted, Fett had to have warned his son of that.

"What's your name?" Quinlan asked, catching the kid by surprise.

"Boba."

"Okay, Boba," Quinlan said with his most gentle smile. "How about I give you my Lightsaber while I examine him? And you keep your blaster on me? That way if you don't like anything I do you can shoot. How does that sound?"

Boba hesitated, scared, but nodded. Quinlan carefully put his lightsaber on the ground, going slowly so he didn't startle the armed child. Standing, he kicked is toward the kid; Yoda would whack his shins for treating it like that. Slowly, eyes darting between the saber and Jedi, Boba bent down and picked it up. He looked at it with wide, curious eyes--like all kids--and then clipped it onto his belt. Leveling his blaster at Quinlan he gave a nod.

He wasn't a healer, but Quinlan had learned a lot about emergency medical treatments as a Shadow. He did a visual check of Fett's head and prodded at him in the Force. His shields were strong but tattered from pain and...something else. There was something wrong in his mind, a blankness that felt like beskar, but his helmet was on the ground.

"Lord Fett," Quinlan said in a soft vice so as not to startle or hurt the Mandalorian. "I'm going to examine your head for injury. I'm going to have to touch you and possibly use the Force. Boba has a blaster pointed as my head and saber on him. I mean you no harm. May I proceed?"

Fett looked up at him. There was anger in his eyes, but they were unfocused. A new wave of pain had him curling and holding a scream behind his teeth. He nodded, yanking his hands from his head and wrapping them around his arms. His eyes were screwed shut and he was shaking. Boba looked like he wanted to cry.

Gently, Quinlan started feeling his head, looking for bumps or depressions, any sign of impact. Nothing. He knew his gloves could make it difficult, but he didn't want to risk picking up any of this guy's trauma with his psychometry. Instead, he used the Force to feel around. No new skull damage, but there was an old surgical scar, and that sense of Beskar again, but not. Looking closer it felt like a low-level Force suppression shield specially tuned to imitate the blankness of Beskar, likely so it wouldn't be noticed as he usually wore his helmet around Force Users. It'd make him impenetrable with his helmet on, but without it Quinlan could feel the edges of a device at the center of the pain.

"Ok, Boba," He said, turning to the kid. "Something is in your dad's head that probably shouldn't be. I think it's causing the pain. I'd like to move into the ship to take a better look. Can you help me move him?"

Boba hesitated, paling at the mention of the device. He gulped and nodded. "Ok."

Chapter Text

Boba was freaking out! His dad was in pain from something in his head. There was a Jetii on Slave 1! A floor above was a droid army ready to fight a war for some slimy politicians. And their cranky employer was the evil Jetii that took away his buir's aliit. Boba felt perfectly entitled to his freak out!

After helping the Jetii get his buir into his cot, Boba hurried to find the med kit. He came back to the Jetii turning buir onto his side and propping him up with pillows. Buir had passed out from the pain. Boba wanted to cry. This was bad! So bad!

Vos noticed him in the doorway and held out a hand for the kit. Boba tried to keep the shake out of his hands as he passed it over. Vos placed it on the sideboard.

"Can you get up here and hold him steady?" Vos said, nodding at the bed.

Boba crawled on, scooting to the top and pulling his dad's head into his lap. Vos smiled as he looked through the med kit. He pulled out the scanner and ran it over buir's head. He looked at the results and frowned. He did it again.

"What's wrong?" Boba asked, worried.

"The scanner isn't picking up anything," Vos said, fiddling with the settings.

"I thought you said there was a device in there?" Boba accused, suddenly realizing he let an enemy on the ship while his buir was vulnerable.

"There is," Vos said, holding up a hand to placate him. "I think it's some kind of force suppressor, which is a weird thing to have in your head. It's probably disguised so a normal scan won't pick it up. I'm turning up the sensitivity." He got a beep from the device and scanned again. "Ah, there it is. Oooook. That doesn't make sense."

"What now?" Boba demanded, irritated and worried.

"I've found the device, but..." he blew out a breath. "According to the scanner, part of his brain is being chemically suppressed."

"Is that why he's in pain?"

"No," Vos answered. "They're the same area, but the chemical suppression has been going on for years. So, here's the problem: According to the scanner that part of his brain is at a normal level of activity, which means it's usually hyperactive, and if I'm remembering my biology lessons right, that's the part that interacts with the Force in Jedi."

"My buir doesn't have the Force," Boba insisted, confused.

"I know," Vos agreed, running the scan, and getting the same results, by the frown on his face. "We've done a detailed profile on him, we'd have noticed." Boba scowled. "He's the Jedi Killer, kid. Point is, something is very wrong. Ok," He started fiddling with the scanner. "I think I can rig this thing to turn off the device for now, which should stop the pain. When we get to Kamino we should have it removed and examined. I've never seen a device like this, and it is freaking me out."

Satisfied with his work, he ran it over Buir's head. Buir instantly relaxed. Vos let out a sigh of relief and went back to the scanner. He fiddled with the settings again and ran it over Buir's entire body. He frowned at the screen. He ran it over Boba. He frowned even deeper.

"If you keep making those, faces I'm going to punch you," Boba threatened, still anxious.

"You would be surprised how often I hear that," Vos sighed, still fiddling with the device and frowning. "These scans are telling me something...not good. There's nothing wrong with your buir!" He said quickly, seeing Boba's fear. "He's healthy, aside from whatever someone's been doing to his head. It's just, what this thing is telling me can't be right. And if it is, we have some serious problems."

Boba scowled, annoyed. "And what is tha-?" Vos held up his hand to silence him.

He turned toward the door, listening. His eyes got wide.

"Someone's coming," Vos said, looking serious. "Someone dark." He grabbed a com from his ear and thrust it at Boba. "Here, take this. This com will go off when a ship carrying Obi-wan's padawan, Anakin Skywalker, and Senator Amidala are in range. Find them and tell them what's going on here and that Obi-wan, a team of Jedi, and a clone battalion are on the way. A-and that Nute Gunray is here; he hates them. And then wait." He stressed the last part.

"What about you and Buir?" Boba asked, scared.

"They'll capture us," Vos Said. "They can already sense me, and your dad is in no state to run. I'm hiding your signature and I'll keep doing so, so you can get away. Find my friends and wait for help. Got it?" Boba nod. "Hide until we're gone."

Boba wedged himself into the shielded smuggler's hold with his blaster and a data pad. With the pad he watched his buir wake up, confused and upset. Vos whispered something to him, and he calmed down. An alert from the external cameras. Boba switched over to see a squad of Geonosians board the ship, a figure cloaked in black at the rear. The bugs quickly found Vos and Buir, grabbed them, and brought them to the cargo hold. They shoved them to the ground in front of the figure.

He pulled back his hood to reveal a man with black hair, a broken circle scar on his cheek, and acid scars on his neck. Boba had seen him lurking in the shadows whenever the spoke to Dooku. They'd never gotten his name, but Vos seemed to know him.

"Xanatos Du Crion," Vos said, bored. "You should be dead. Obi said you threw yourself in acid. Nice choice for a dramatic death, by the way."

"I did," Crion agreed, a haughty smirk on his smug face. "The Force protected me, as it always had. I am the Chosen One, according to my detestable, departed master."

"Yeah," Vos drawled, rolling his eyes. "He said that a lot. Frankly, if I were choosing someone to save the galaxy, I'd pick Obes."

"That flunk out?" Crion scoffed. "He can't even protect his own Padawan. You were always amusing, Vos."

"I try," Vos shrugged. "So, let me guess: you're either on the looney council up there." Crion chuckled and stood tall. "Or Dooku's errand boy. Oh, wait," Vos smirked. "Your people exiled you for being a power mad monster, so you can't be on the council." He tutted. "From planet leader to flunky. Your career really took a nose-dive, huh, Xanny?"

Crion stepped forward and back handed Vos across the face; the Jetii seemed unbothered. "I am an Acolyte of the Sith, student of the Great Master, and you are my prisoner."

"We'll see."

"Fett," the Dar'jetii barked. "Why is this Jedi on your ship? You should have captured and brought him to Count Dooku or killed him. That's what you're being paid for, after all, to keep the situation under our control."

"Contracts off. What did you do to me?" Buir demanded, glaring daggers at Crion. "That thing in my head. These memories. What are they?"

Crion raised a hand toward buir, closing his eyes to focus. He tilted his head, a frown growing on his face. He huffed and folded his hands into his ridiculous sleeves.

"You turned it off, I see," Crion said to Vos, ignoring buir. "No matter, he's served his purpose. Where is the boy?"

Vos gave him a puzzled look; he was a good look. "What boy?"

Crion slapped him again. "Fett's pet clone. Don't try my patience, Vos."

"I didn't hear about a kid," Vos said, scowling as he wiped blood from his face, then nodded at buir. "Just him."

"Fett," Crion snapped. "Where is he?"

"You won't find him," Buir growled. "I've trained him well. You and your bugs don't have a prayer."

Crion huffed a laugh. "I doubt that," He gestured to the geonosians who produced binders and cuffed Vos and Buir. "But neither of you will see us catch him. Take them to the arena pits!" He ordered. "I'm sure our guests will enjoy some entertainment."

He smirked as Vos and buir were roughly marched past, snatching Vos's lightsaber. After everyone else was gone he lingered in the ship, examining the saber hilt before sweeping aside his cloak and clipping to his belt, alongside another hilt decorated with gold and jewels. He scanned the cargo hold. His eyes caught on the camera Boba was watching him through. Boba held his breath, terrified Crion knew he was there. After a few heart stopping moments, Crion turned and left.

Boba was alone.

Chapter Text

Statistically, desert planets only made up 3% of habitable planets in the galaxy, but Anakin's experiences didn't seem to reflect that. To him, it felt like every mission he went on found him slogging through sand at some point. The terraforming on Tatooine made the planet much more appealing from orbit, but Mos Espa was just as sandy and ugly as he remembered. Still, at least the port workers and SLC officers were upbeat and welcome, as opposed to suspicious and scared like when he lived there. C-3PO was still chatty and Anakin almost Force lifted him onto the ship when the droid protested the idea of space travel, but Padme finally talked him into it. Soon they were on their way to Geonosis. Another desert planet. Yay.

The Force seemed to be saying something by returning his mother to him so close to where they parted. He didn't know what that was though. Either way he was glad Padme was with him since Obi-wan couldn't be. He hoped his dad's mission was going well. He would have liked to contact him again before they landed, but protocol dictated they didn't call any non-cover contacts unless it was an emergency to keep the logs clean.

The control tower had them land a klick from the facility where a contingent of Geonosian guards waited. They were heavily armed, which was worrying. He and Padme exchanged worried looks, wondering if their cover was blown. Under normal circumstances Anakin might have said they should retreat. But these weren't normal circumstances. Somewhere in the facility on the hill was his mother. After 10 years, he'd finally see her again. They left the ship.

C-3PO attempted to greet the waiting soldiers, but they only gave short, clipped answers; though that may be just how their language sounded and Anakin's inability to fully release his nerves was coloring his view. Anakin and Padme would be brought to the auction room and leave their weapon at the door. About what they expected. The leader told them to fall in line, but before they could Anakin felt a warning from the Force.

He yanked Padme back under the ship. C-3PO and R2 protested at being bumped. Blaster fire rained down on the Geonosians. 6 shots. 6 bodies. Silence.

It was clean, efficient, terrifying. One moment the Geonosians were ready to move, the next they were wet smears on the sand. Anakin had only seen this kind of accuracy from professional assassins and Galaxy class bounty hunters. C-3PO tried to say something, probably wanting to leave, but Padme shushed him and covered his speaker.

Anakin felt a quiet presence approach, quiet and controlled behind powerful mental shields. He yanked his lightsaber from it's hidden pocket and ignited it. Over the buzz he heard soft foot falls. A figure dropped into sight, not 6 feet from them.

"Goodness gracious me," C-3PO burst, jumping.

It was a boy.

"Put that away, di'kut," the boy snapped, shifting his oversized rifle.

"Put down the rifle," Anakin fired back. He didn't want to fight a child, but he was clearly trained, and he had Padme to protect.

The boy rolled his eyes. "I'm Boba Fett. I'm here to rescue you."

"Rescue?" C-3PO huffed. "You nearly shot us!" Padme shushed him.

"Aren't you a little..." Anakin hesitated, lowering his saber but not deactivating. "...young?"

"Says the baby Jedi," Boba deadpanned.

R2 gave an annoyed beep, which Anakin agreed with. "You don't to call someone twice your age a baby."

"Look," Boba huffed, slinging his rifle over his back; the muzzle almost touched the ground. "Vos Sent me to find you."

"Who?" C-3PO asked.

"Quinlan Vos?" Anakin asked. Boba nodded.

"Padme stepped out from behind him. "Your friend's teacher?"

"He's a Shadow," Anakin informed her. "A Jedi intelligence agent. What's he doing here?"

"Your master sent him after me and my Buir," Boba explained, walking up to them. "After he found the clone army."

"The what now?" Anakin burst.

"What army?" C-3PO asked, sounding outraged. "For who? Is there even a war?"

"Someone is trying to start one," Boba said ominously.

"I think we should contact Obi-wan," Padme said, pulling Anakin back onto the ship with the boy and droids in toe.

Obi-wan was out of contact in hyperspace, but Bail was able to brief them on what Obi-wan and Vos found. Boba filled in about Vos's capture, the Separatist leaders, Dooku. And Xanatos du Crion, Master Qui-gon's fallen apprentice that tried to destroy the Order, Qui-gon, and his next apprentice, Obi-wan, several times; Obi-wan still woke up with nightmares from when the man enslaved him in a deadly, deep sea mine. The strike team was recalled, as the SLC couldn’t risk starting a war, but the medical team's captain insisted on sticking around in case fighting broke out. Bail insisted Anakin move the ship and hide, but not try to leave and risk the planetary defenses.

As Padme talked with Bail about how to handle this politically, Anakin sank into a chair and tried to meditate on his emotions, but it was difficult. This was clearly a trap. A trap for him. His mother, Nute Gunray, and two fallen members of his lineage? That damn Chosen One thing was rearing its head to ruin his life again. It had alienated him amongst his agemates, drawn the attention of the chancellor, been a beacon to darksiders on far too many missions, and now it might mean he started a war.

Sometimes he wished Qui-gon never found him. He'd still be with his mother. Obi-wan wouldn't have been stuck trying to raise him before either of them was ready. Wouldn't have had to fight the Council and the Dark Side at every turn. He made a better slave then a Jedi anyway. All he was good at was fixing machines.

On some level he noticed Padme ending the call, confident Bail would hold the line against war. Boba had been listing with mild interest from the copilot's chair. He popped up and was about to ask a question when he spotted Anakin meditating.

"What's with him?" He asked, nodding at the jedi.

"He's...processing," Padme answered hesitantly. "We came here to free his mother, and now it looks like it was all a trap. She might not even be here."

"She's here," Anakin sighed, giving up on meditation. "I can sense her. As well as Vos, Gunray, and two powerful dark siders." He sighed again and stood, heading for the controls. "If we keep low, we should avoid scanners. There are only a few settlements so it should be easy to hide. R2, scan our topographical charts to find a good hiding place: remote and covered, but easy to launch from if we need to make a quick escape." R2 rolled over to the navigation port.

C-3PO happily agreed. "Quite sensible, Master Ana-"

"No!" Boba and Padme protested, making him jump.

"You heard them, we can't leave the atmosphere," Anakin countered. "There could be patro-"

"No, Anakin," Padme interrupted. "We have to stay and go in there."

"We most certainly do not," C-3PO huffed.

"Knight Vos said to hide," Anakin reminded her. "So did Senator Organa. He said it like 4 times."

"We have to help my buir," Boba insisted, pulling R2 away from the port, despite the droid's loud protests. "He's hurt and Crion is going to put him and Vos in the Arena. I saw some of the animals they have right now, they're terrifying."

"All the more reason to leave," C-3PO insisted.

"Do you ever shut up?" Boba snapped at the droid.

"We have to rescue Shmi and the other slaves," Padme put in, stepping between Boba and C-3PO. "The Seperatists could use them as hostages when reinforcements arrive, especially Shmi.” She placed a hand on Anakin's arm and looked him in the eye. "If Dooku is really using her to lure you in then he knows he could use her against Obi-wan too."

"We are not walking into a trap!" Anakin said, reluctantly pulling away; her hand was so gentle and comforting.

"If we know it's a trap-" Boba began to say.

"No!" Anakin snapped. "I am not putting a child in danger."

"I have training," Boba countered, easily swinging the rifle around. "I took out that whole patrol, and I could take you."

"Anakin is right," Padme said, stepping in before Anakin could fire back. "It defeats the whole point of Vos protecting you. And I don't think any parent wants their child putting themself in danger to save them. I'll go."

"Excuse me?!" "What?" "Are you crazy?!" R2 beeped furiously.

Padme held up her hand to silence them. "Poggle is expecting Nattal and her assistant," she reminded them. "I can take C-3PO--" That earned a squawk of distress "--and learn what I can. They might not know my cover and let me look at the slaves; even tag their location. Meanwhile you two can free Vos and Fett."

"And if they do know it's you?" Boba asked, curious instead of skeptical.

"I can distract them until Vos and Fett can rescue the slaves and I."

"I do not like this plan," C-3PO mumbled.

"I don't either," Anakin said, shaking his head. "That plan makes too many assumptions. Dooku will recognize you, and when you show up without me it'll put everyone on alert. If Dooku was the one to hire Fett to attack you—" He looked to Boba to check his suspicion and got a nod in response "—He'll know Obi-wan and I were assigned to protect you and that Obi-wan was on Kamino. He'll know I'm here and they'll start searching the facility. This is their base; they'll find Boba and I before we can do anything."

"An excellent point, Master Anakin," C-3PO said chipperly. "It is simply too dangerous."

"I'll convince him I slipped away," She replied, ignoring the droid entirely. "You're a padawan, they'll believe it."

"Thank you for that assessment of my abilities," Anakin groused with a raised brow.

Padme and Boba rolled their eyes at him. She took his hand and waited until he looked her in the eye.

"Anakin, please," she asked softly, earnestly. "I have spent months trying to prevent this war. If Obi-wan and his troops have to attack to rescue Vos and Fett, Dooku can use it to declare war. If we act now, get everyone free, we can escape without starting a battle. Without starting a war."

"She's right," Boba agreed, looking determined. "If they don't have prisoners there's no reason to attack. Between Vos and buir they should have enough intel to take it to court or something," He didn't sound so confident now. "They could, like, sue them?" He obviously knew nothing of the law, which made sense for the 10-year-old son of a bounty hunter.

"Embargo and tariffs," Padme provided with a smile. "They could cut off Geonosis and any other groups involved from the galactic economy. The Trade federation would be destroyed." She was quietly delighted by the possibility. "It could bring the Separatists back to the negotiating table."

"It's too dangerous," Anakin protested, despite seeing the logic.

Padme scowled, stubbornness written clear across her face. "It's worth the risk."

"Look!" Anakin said, putting his foot down in both senses. "I am in charge, and I say no!"

Anakin watched as Padme and C-3PO left the ship.

"I should have joined the Exploration Corps," He grumbled from where he stood on the loading ramp with R2. "Ships don't ignore your orders." The droid doubted that.

"Are you always this whiney?"  Boba asked, strapping one of Padme's blasters to his leg; it fit his grip better than his dad’s.

Anakin resisted the unjedi-like, and decidedly immature impulse to stick his tongue out at the boy; but it was a close thing. He finished stowing his Saber in R2's spring loaded compartment in case of emergency. He'd traded out his "envoy for a public figure wishing to buy a slave" outfit for a "rookie bounty hunter in over his head" look; they didn't want to be tied back to the Jedi or SLC if things went bad.

They left the ship, locking it down. "How well do you know the facility?" He asked Boba as they mounted the speeder Boba brought, Anakin in front.

"Not great," Boba said, scowling at not driving; he'd only allowed it because Anakin pointed out he would have an easier time reaching the controls. "Dooku usually had buir collect weird Dar'jetiise artifacts and bring them straight to Serrano. When we collected bounties we came here, but buir didn't think it was safe, so I only ever left the ship with him and didn't get to explore. I know the way back to Slave 1 and from there the war room and other landing pads, but it's easy to find the factory; nearly all the tunnels lead there." He nodded to R2, hooked onto the back. "It's also has the most unsecured terminals."

"Is the factory guarded?"

"No more so than the rest of the place," Boba shrugged. "You might have noticed it's hard to land if you're not wanted so they don’t have much security planeside. The bugs sleep in the walls of most of the low traffic tunnels, so they only have active patrols in the main ones. Vos must have used some jetiise magic to avoid them."

Anakin nodded, trying not to be disturbed by the idea of geonosians sleeping in the walls. "Quinlan is a professional so I can't really do the same. I should be able to sense anyone awake so we'll use the more active tunnels to avoiding waking them up. We'll get R2 to a terminal so he can locate Quinlan, your dad, and the slaves; maybe do a bit of sabotage on the factory." R2 gave an excited trill, the chaotic droid. "You good with explosives?"

Anakin didn't need the Force to sense to feel the feral, malicious grin on Boba's face; he and R2 would get on beautifully. "Does a strill stink?"

Sneaking around the facility was bad for Anakin's heart. If they weren't dodging active patrols, they were trying not to disturb the sleeping bugs. They were nearly caught 4 times, a Force suggestion or distraction the only thing keeping them hidden. R2's wheels grated from the sand, the clasp on Boba's holster kept clinking loudly, and why had Anakin picked a duster that rasped every time he moved his arms? It only took minutes to reach the factory, but it felt like ages. Why did sneaking around with Obi-wan always feel so easy?

Once R2 was plugged into the terminal, Anakin and Boba snuck around planting explosives where they'd do the most damage and make the most ruckus, should they need a distraction. It was easy to hide him and Boba from the distracted factory workers, few as they were, and the sensors were easy to spot; no one seemed to expect someone to get this far. By the time they finished, R2 had found out what they needed, but it wasn't good.

"Quinlan and your dad are already at the arena," Anakin read from the data R2 pulled up.

"Which way is it?" Boba asked, hand going to his blaster and radiating determination to save his dad.

"In the same direction I sense all the Geonosians have gone," Anakin warned. "Which is why we can't help them right now. Breaking them out of a cell with a few guards is different then an arena filled with an enemy army. I'm sorry, Boba, but we can't help them."

"But-" Boba tried, looking scared.

Anakin shook his head. "I know you want to help your dad, but we have another mission: the slaves. We have to get them free before anyone realizes we're here."

Boba glared. "You just want to save your mom."

"As much as you want to save your dad," Anakin reminded him, making Boba duck his head in shame. "The difference is that your dad and Quinlan know how to look out for themselves, but my mom and the other slaves are helpless. What's more, Dooku and his council could use them as hostages when Obi-wan and your brothers arrive. Once we have the slaves secured, we can double back and see if we can help Quinlan and Buir, maybe use the explosives as a distraction. But only once we have everything else taken care. Are we clear?"

Boba glared as the read out on the screen, as if trying to will it to change. It didn't. He sighed and looked to Anakin, grim and scared, but determined.

"We’re clear.”

Chapter Text

Shmi was used to the dark. Sometimes dapur couldn't be bothered to provide light. Sometimes dapur locked her in a dark place as punishment. Sometimes dapur would have her hurt and she would lose her sight, and often time.

There were about a dozen others in the room with her. Mostly humanoid. Young, healthy, and beautiful. The type that ended up as pleasure companions. Shmi had thought her time as one was over, but there were all kinds in the galaxy. Even those who would take little ones, like the girl pressed into her side.

Manu was just 10-years-old. She and Shmi had been together for three months, the longest she'd had anyone in her life for years, and only left each other’s side when forced. Shmi wished she could protect the girl from what was to come, but she couldn't. She hadn't been in control of her own life since slavers attacked her transport and killed her father right in front of her. That's how it would always be, unless the rumors were true.

Rumors of a Republic community dedicated to ending slavery. Rumors of Rouge Jedi who spent their slaves freeing slaves. Rumors of hunters and pirates who helped both. Rumors of a hunter looking specifically for Shmi.

Shmi knew better then to trust rumors. placing your hope in them was a quick way to break your heart. But a rumor had saved her Ani. Appeared from the wastes and taken him to the core to become a Jedi. That fact, that truth, had left a small ember of hope that Dapur could not extinguish in the last 10, brutal years. No matter how many times she changed hands, no matter how far she traveled from her children, that ember kept her warm. People escaped Dapur, and she could be one of them.

But probably not today.

Shmi stroked Manu's lekku, softly humming to sooth her. She'd been put through her first medical examination as a slave and was left in tears. The droid had been quick, efficient, and gentle, but it's attempts at comfort were foiled by the bug people keeping watch; Shmi didn't recognize their species and language. Shmi had certainly experienced worse, but it still wasn't pleasant. She wasn't sure she hoped Manu never got used to it, or adapted fast.

They'd been left alone since the exams, but they could occasionally hear the bug people talking and moving around; guard changes? They brought food every few hours and allowed them to use the fresher across the hall.

Shmi was sure the buyer had talked about a special auction, but their treatment didn't match. They hadn't been taken to be washed down, even in places that didn't feel nice. They hadn't been given new clothes that would highlight their forms. There was no jewelry, make up, or hair styling. There were no threatening speeches about being compliant and flirting with the customers. None of the things she knew came with these sorts of auctions. In fact, the food and furniture were surprisingly good for a holding room. Shmi would have felt more like a guest then a slave, if not for the darkness and locked door. And even the darkness was in question, because she could have sworn she heard a posh Core accent telling one of the bug people to fix the light fixture when they were next taken to the fresher. It didn't make sense. She didn't trust it.

There was shuffling outside the door. Odd, they only changed guard less than an hour ago. Maybe it was time for this supposed auction. Suddenly, there was shouting and blaster fire. They were fighting! Shmi heard the others getting to their feet and hiding behind the furniture, but she knew it was pointless. If the attackers wanted to hurt them they would. Shmi pulled Manu close and turned had her hide her face in her side, so she wouldn't see the end coming.

The struggling stopped. The door was yanked open, blinding them. Shmi shielded her eyes and tried to blink them clear to see; she wanted to knew what was coming. Back lite by the hall light was a small, humanoid figure with curly hair. A boy? A second later a taller figure appeared, wielding a blue blade of light.

"Jedi!" One of the others cried out in relief. The others cheered.

The two stepped in, revealing themselves to be human. The boy was dark skinned, sharp eyed, and scanned them all while holding a blaster at his side. The taller figure was a young man with golden hair, part of it pulled into a long, thin braid. His eyes were a bright blue that tugged at Shmi' memory; she felt she should know him. He scanned the room until his eyes landed on her. Wonder bloomed across his face, and Shmi recognized that look.

"Mom," he whispered, face and voice overcome with emotion.

"Anakin," she breathed, slowly rising to her feet. "My little Ani."

He rushed to her, burying his face into her shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her. He was trembling, shaking with sobs, but no tears fell; you couldn't waste water. She clung to him, keeping her own tears in. She had dreamed of him coming to free her so many times, of getting to hold him in her arms once more. She wondered if this were all a dream, but she didn't think she could imagine how much he'd changed. It had to be real.

"You've gotten so tall," she giggled wetly, pulling back.

"Why does everyone say that?" He chuckled, shaking his head. "I can't believe I finally found you."

She grinned and cupped his face. There was a little scar on his cheek, a few pot marks, and his nose was crooked from breaks, but he was beautiful. Nothing had ever looked as beautiful as his dear, brave Ani. She kissed his forehead, feeling him melt into her touch like when he was little. He was so big, so different, yet he reacted just the same. She started covering his face in kisses, word failing her. It was her little boy!

"Moooom," he mock whined, but didn't pull away.

His smile was so wide, so happy, like when he turned on his first droid. It had been such a painfully long time, yet she could still see her little boy. She stroked his cheek.

"I have so much to tell you," He said, squeezing her hand.

"I can imagine," she chuckled; 10 years was a to miss. "You're a jedi."

His smile turned brittle for a moment--she could still see when he was worried--but then he pulled it back up. "Yeah. It's hard, but I get to help so many people. I have some great friends, and Oide Obi-wan is the best. I couldn't ask for a better teacher."

"Obi-wan?" She asked. "What happened to Knight Jinn?"

The smile slipped from her son's face, grief clear and old, but controlled. "He was killed by a Sith a few weeks after we left Tatooine," he said softly. "The one who...the same one that took you." The red and black appeared in her mind, sulfur yellows eyes burned into her memory. "We didn't know until after dad killed him, when we went to get you."

"Dad?"

"The Jedi Order weren't sure about training me," He admitted sheepishly. "Because I was older than most who come to the temple." A fond smile bloomed on his face. "Obi-wan adopted me, made me part of his clan on Stewjon, so I'd have a home no matter what. And when we went back to to Tatooine we found Baru. Dad got her free and brought her into the clan too. Now she's engaged to his brother, Quin, the clan chief. The wedding is going to be in less than a year and...and she always hoped you'd be there. And now you will be. You're finally safe, mom." He kissed her cheek and hugged her tight. Her daughter was free and was getting married! She'd get to see her married!

"Almost safe," the boy with the blaster put in, standing guard at the door.

"Shush," one of the others hissed at him.

Suddenly Shmi was reminded they had an audience; and they weren't safe yet.

"Hey, we're still in enemy territory," The boy shot back. "If we don't get moving we'll be discovered."

"The next meal isn't for a few hours," Shmi told them, stealing herself to start moving; she'd been waiting decades for this chance, she wouldn't miss it.

"Let's get moving," Anakin said, pulling away but keeping hold of his mother's hand. "We need to get clear before the troops land."

"Troops?" One of the others asked, alarmed.

The boy gave them a rueful smirk. "A battalion from the Republic's secret clone army is coming to rescue us and check out the Separatist’s secret droid army."

"Are they at war?" Shmi asked. Slaves didn't get a lot of news on the galaxy, but they should have heard about war.

"Not yet," Anakin assured them. "And never, if we can avoid an armed conflict. First step is to get you all out of here."

"Shmi!" Manu called, scared.

Shmi turned, remembering the girl's ankle was twisted when a guard was to rough and made her fall. She turned to Anakin for help, but he was already kneeling in front of the scared Twi'lek. He held out his arms in silent question. She nodded and leaned toward him. He easily scooped her into his arms and held her close, smiling when she looped her arms around her neck. Shmi couldn't help but smile.

That was her Ani.

Anakin took the lead with an Astromech and the boy at the back; Boba and R2, she learned, when Anakin scolded them. The group came across only a few guards, even with a taking the most traveled tunnels. Soon they could see daylight. As they reached the tunnel mouth a figure appeared.

"Master Skywalker," said a delighted, tinny voice. "And Mistress Shmi. I am so glad to-"

The protocol droid was suddenly flung outside by an invisible force. Shmi and the others hesitated, but Anakin didn't break stride. Did he do that? Amazing!

"Sorry, C-3PO," Anakin said as they emerged from the tunnel. "Didn't want you waking up the bugs in the next tunnel."

"I understand," the droid sighed as others helped him to his feet. "I am still most glad to see you. Senator Amidala has been captured."

Anakin grimaced. "We thought that could happen."

"You brought a senator on a rescue mission?" One of them asked.

"It was her mission," Anakin said. "She's part of the SLC. She went in to get intel. Where did the take her?" He asked 3PO.

"Viceroy Nute Gunray order her taken to the Arena. She is to be executed at once, alongside a Jedi and bounty; I can only imagine them to be Knight Vos and Lord Fett. All the Geonosians have been summoned to observe. They were so excited I was left behind. Terribly rude, but I am grateful."

"Now can we go get them?" Boba growled.

Anakin gave him a look. "We have to get everyone to the ship."

"That could take hours on foot," the boy protested. "They'll be dead by then."

"Boba-" Anakin sighed, pained.

"Not if we take that," Manu said, pointing at a cart speeder behind Anakin; plenty of room for them all.

"If it helps, sir," C-3PO spoke up. R2 and I could navigate them back to the ship, allowing you and Master Boba to go to Senator Amidala's aide. We can also contact the medical transport to come remove their chips."

Anakin looked to the astromech, who gave a trill for yes. "Ok," he said.

They quickly loaded into the cart. A curvy devaroinian took the pilot's seat as R2 was loaded into the nav slot. Manu was reluctant to let Anakin go, but Shmi eventually coaxed her into the cart. Then it was just Shmi. Looking at her son, grown and brave, a sudden fear struck her.

"Be careful," she said, holding him tight. "I don't want to lose you again so soon."

"You won't," he promised, holding her tight. "I'm not leaving you behind ever again. I just have to stop a war and then we'll go see Baru."

"Oh," she chuckled. "Is that all?"

"I'll be fine, mom," he whispered, letting her go. "I promise."

He helped her into the cart, Manu snuggling into her side. Her gave her one last kiss on the cheek and pat Maun's head. He stepped back and the cart lifted up. As it sped away Shmi watched her son shrink into the distance. Old instincts told her he wouldn't make it back, but she held tight to the new hope burning in her chest. He had become a Jedi, he'd saved her. A few days ago she wouldn't have believed it, but now she could believe anything. She could believe he'd be alright, and they'd all be together again.

Chapter Text

"4 out of 10 stars," Quinlan said, staring at the featureless ceiling. "No cot, not bathroom, tamper proof lock, but dry."

"You're crazy," Fett grumbled from where he stood by the bars, watching the empty hall despite Quinlan's assurances he'll feel anyone coming long before Fett.

"For the guards I have to give a 2," He went on anyway, waving the arm not supporting his head for emphasis. "Ugly, creepy, no personality, can't mind trick, taunt, or charm into opening the door for a daring escape. But, no torture."

Fett huffed and shook his head. Probably waiting for Dooku and Crion to do it."

"0 out of 10, do not recommend," Quinlan said. "Darksiders are nasty torturers, thy really know pain." He shivered at the memories. "Sith also have the whole Force Lightning thig, I think." He threw his arms up and twitch like he was being electrocuted.

"Force lightning?" Fett asked, somewhere between skeptical and wary.

"Yup," Quinlan said, letting his arms flop down and turning his head to the bounty hunter. "Equivalent to 1,000 volts shooting from their fingertips," He wiggled his fingers at the bounty hunter. "They can dial it down so it doesn't kill, just hurts like a bitch. Makes fighting terrible beasts in the arena sound like a cake walk, huh?" He gave one of his crazy grins."

"Are you sure I'm the one with brain damage?" Fett asked, cocking an eyebrow.

Quinlan laughed. They'd been in the cell for about 4 hours now and for the last 45 minutes rating the experience; he had plenty to compare it to. Fett had given up ignoring him the first hour, but he refused to play along. Well, that just made Quinlan more determined. While Fett had resisted his charm longer than most, but no one could forever. Soon enough he'd- Damn it. Someone was coming.

"In a few minutes my brain might just fry," he said, rolling onto his feet with ease. "Someone's coming."

The door at the end of the hall opened and in walked Dooku. Gray haired, high collared, and pompous as a core world senator, he rolled up to the cell with two buggy guards flanking him. He'd pulled in his dark aura, seeming not that different from when he'd taught Quinlan Makeshi as a teen. The shook on his face at Quinlan was echoed in the Force. If he hadn't already felt how deep the old master was in, he'd almost believe he didn't know what was happening. Almost.

"Vos?" he asked, not hiding his surprise with an imperious mask like he always did in the old days; he was the master of jedi blankness. "I was told they captured an intruder. I thought-"

"It'd be Obi-wan," Quinlan interrupted with a smirk.

"What?" Dooku said, hefty eyebrow's shifting in puzzlement; he was laying it on a bit thick.

"Perfectly understandable," Quinlan continued, moving forward to rest his forearms on the bars. "Yeah, I get wanting to get another member of your lineage on your side. And Obes?" He blew out a breath for emphasis. "Gosh. What better help? Especial for a war. Smart, polite, a great diplomat, one of the top fighters in the Orders, actual wartime experience, and our best strategic mind, thanks to the before mentioned wartime experience."

“He can't be that good," Fett said from his right.

"If he weren't a flirty little shit that used his clan ties to circumvent the council's orders, he'd be the perfect Jedi," Quinlan shrugged. "And he's the mentor of the supposed Chosen One who will bring Order to the Force; whatever that means. If County Dikku here--" he nodded at the frowning man "--turned him Sith it'd be a massive blow to the Order and the Republic."

"You think I'm a Sith?" Dooku asked, obviously faking offence; he really hadn't been prepared for a Shadow.

"...you're kidding, right?" Fett asked, raising an eyebrow of his own. "I'm as Force Sensitive as a rock and I can feel it."

"Rocks can be force sensitive," Quinlan put in, loving to share that fact whenever possible.

Fett gave him his patented skeptical look. "You're shitting me."

"Nope," he replied, popping the P. "Obes has a collection, I'll show you sometime. But the point is," he turned back to Dooku. "Even if you weren't exuding dark energy like a hutt sweats." Gross, but illustrative. "Dear old Xani proudly declared himself to be a Sith acolyte. And, by the by, no way in the universe Obes would join sides with a guy that sold him into slavery when he was 13."

Fett growled: "Another good reason to kill him."

"Oh, I've got a list."

"Are you quite through?" Dooku asked, annoyed.

"Probably not," Quinlan said with a cheeky grin. "But go ahead. You were pretending to be shocked to find a Jedi in here."

Dooku sighed, finally giving up on trying to control Quinlan. His 10 years away had obviously made him forget how troublesome Quinlan could be when he wanted. He'd remind him soon enough.

"Indeed," Dooku admitted. "I would have liked to have seen my grand padawan. In order to warn him."

"Of the big war you're about to kick off?" Quinlan asked, unimpressed. "He knows."

"That there is a Sith in the Senate."

Quinlan gave it barely a moment's consideration. "Shockingly, I'm willing to believe that. It explains a lot."

"Like Galidraan," Fett mumbled, emotions and face suddenly dark.

Quinlan winced. Yeah, that had been pretty high on his list too. One of Master Tholme's creshmates had been killed in the attack and he'd grieved by learning everything he could to try and prevent a repeat. He felt the True Mandalorians had been the best option for the system and suspected Mereel or Fett would have been open to peaceful relations with the Order. A Sith planning a galactic war would probably try to stop that at all costs.

"The bastard that set up the attack didn't want the Jedi to slaughter my people," Fett explained, glaring coldly at Dooku. "The Governor’s request to the Jetiise was to pacify us, then the Death Watch—the real terrorists—would arrive and kill both sides, eliminating their biggest threat and starting a war with the Order to prove their might. Instead, someone from your Senate passed down a kill order and you didn't fucking question it." He growled at the Sith, anger flaring saber hot. "I don't like the Jetiise, you're hypocrites and fools, but it's the Republic that I blame for Galidraan. And you messed with my head to make me forget, so I'd be complicit in your hairbrained scheme to use a war to destroy the Jetiise."

Ok, what now?! "Destroy us? How?"

Fett glared at the floor, rubbing at his temples. "It's sketchy. I'm not sure I ever knew the full details, but it's nasty."

"...the Senate gave the kill order?"

Dooku's lips barely moved, shock and horror ringing loud in his signature and written on his face. He looked lost, scared, and hurt. There was Light in that feeling, real light; he wasn't totally gone. Suddenly a lance of biting dark struck him. He staggered. Quinlan recoiled from the backlash. Dooku grabbed his head.

"What was that?" Fett asked, alarmed.

"He's in pain," Quinlan said, physically shaking it off. "Like you were. It seems we don't have the big boss here, but another puppet."

After a moment the Dark faded back, along with his pain. Dooku straightened up, glaring down his nose at the prisoners; lofty bugger. Whatever was messing with his head he'd let win. Galidraan had been a trigger; Quinlan would have to remember that later.

"I will do what I can to secure your release," Dooku lied, folding his hands behind his back. "But I find it unlikely. The Geonosians take a dim view on spies and traitors."

"Then how are you still alive?" Quinlan fired back.

Dooku turned with a swish of his cape, literally leaving them in his dust; stupid cape kicked up a cloud.

Unsurprisingly, Dooku didn't get them out. When the guards next came, they locked the pair in cuffs—Quinlan’s Force suppressing—and led them down a suspiciously large tunnel. They were loaded into a creature drawn cart and carted into the sun baked, dusty arena to wild cheering. Tiered seats rising into the sky, writhing with bugs.

"I feel like I'm in one of those ridiculous pest control commercials," Quinlan whispered to Fett. "Any second now a giant sentient in a bio suit is going to appear and start spraying chemicals."

"Seriously," Fett huffed as they pulled up to the stone pillars in the center. "Did the Order drop you on your head as an infant?"

"Master Yoda is known to juggle babies," Quinlan conceded as he was led to the center pillar. "But he's too good to drop any."

Fett looked horrified by that revelation as he was led to his pillar. Once they were both chained up the bugs bugged off, retreating into the shade under the king's box. Quinlan had to wonder why so many desert planets were populated. There were oh so many better places to live then over baked dust balls. It made no sense. Unless of course you were one of those tradition or legacy nuts who refused to leave your ancestral home even once it became uninhabitable. Bugs might be that nuts.

Before he could further contemplate the sanity of his hosts, another carts came trundling into the arena. Riding in the back, head held high and proud, was Senator Amidala. She was dressed as her spacer persona, old vest and strapped boots paired with a jumpsuit a size too big. Well, obviously something had gone wrong. Anakin and Boba were nowhere in sight, not that she seemed bothered. Though, Quinlan didn't think much got under her skin; woman was a legend.

"Knight Vos, I presume," she said primly as the Geonosians chained her to the last pillar.

"An honor, Senator Amidala," Quinlan replied with as close to a formal bow he could manage at the moment; which was a head bob and a smile. "May I ask what brings you here this fine day?"

"A rescue mission," she said simply as the bugs buzzed off.

"I see," he said, giving her chains a pointed look. "Was this part of the plan?"

"More or less," She shrugged. "But everything is under control. Anakin and Boba are on it."

"Anakin and Boba?" Quinlan repeated. That sounded like a dangerous pair: a feral Mandalorian child and a Jedi padawan with too much power and not enough sense of self preservation. Quinlan found himself torn between wanting to stop them and wanting to see what chaos they wrought; not that he had much choice.

"Are you saying my ad'ika is running around this hell hole with a Jett'ika as his only back up?" Fett demanded.

"They're both well trained," Amidala countered. "Lord Fett, I take it? I presume you were the one hired to kill me?"

Fett gave her a feral grin. "Ma'am, if I tried to kill you, you'd be dead."

She scowled. "We'll discuss when we're done here," She decided. "For now, I think we should find a way to free ourselves."

"And fast," Quinlan agreed, drawing their attention to the king's box.

Dooku and his sycophants appeared. A well decorated bug Quinlan thought might be named Poogle the Lesser--he hoped not, that was a terrible name--stepped up to speak. Quinlan didn't know the clicking, gulping language, having never needed to learn it, but he could guess what he was saying: He was announcing their execution. The crowd cheered. Figures bugs would be blood thirsty.

With a final clicking declaration the crowd roared and the gates below the king's box opened. 3 creatures were herded out: a green Acklay, a red Reek, and a gray Nexu. Nasty! This was going to be difficult. The Nexu was steered toward the Senator, the Acklay toward the Mandalorian, leaving the Reek for Quinlan.

He turned to check on his fellow prisoners. Fett had somehow produced a long knife from somewhere. Amidala had pulled a pin from her hair and was unlocking her shackles. Quinlan reached into his dreads and pulled out his own lock picks he kept there. She got hands free first.

"I assume you two can handle yourselves," she called as she started to climb her pillar.

"We'll be fine," Quinlan lied, trying to hurry up as the reek started to charge. "Thanks though."

"Vos!" Fett called, as Quinlan got free of the cuffs and their suppressor field. "I don't have my picks."

"Hang on," Quinlan called, tensing to jump over the angry Reek. "Just give me a sec."

The beast hit the pillar, but Quinlan was in the air. Extra twist. He landed on the reek's back. A quick use of Force and the chain was falling down, wrapping around it's neck. A bit more Force and it complied to Quinlan's will. Amidala was using her own chain to fend the Nexu off. The acklay was trying to skewer Fett. The nexu caught the senator's back, drawing blood and a scream.

With the Force, Quinlan flicked Fett's shackles open. He tumbled away from the next strike under the beast's soft belly. He shoved the knife into the soft flesh, aiming for the heart. The acklay screamed. Fett rolled away as it collapsed, dead.

Meanwhile, Quinlan turned the Reek toward Amidala's problem. They charged, catching the Nexu in the side. It yelped as it was thrown, landing in a lump.

"Hop on!" Quinlan called.

Amidala dropped, cushioned by the Force as she landed behind him. A massive boom drowned out the crowd. The reek bucked. Amidala grabbed Quinlan's shoulder as she cheered.

"Anakin and Boba!" She declared as the bugs flew up in anger.

Quinlan could sense the explosion came from the factory. The bugs flew and ran to tend it. This would be a good time to collect Fett and escape. He turned the Reek. Another explosion rocked the arena. Sections of the seats crumbled to ruble and the ground beneath them split.

Quinlan grimaced. "That's not good."

Chapter Text

Geonosians were as observant as they were attractive; as in not at all. Boba and Anakin easily snuck into the arena with Anakin's weak see-me-not suggestion. They kept low, hugging the edges, only moving when they had crowd cover. They needed a place Boba could hide and watch Anakin's back. Anakin felt the Force direct him to a half crumbled, 1 person tunnel entrance in one of the sheer pillars. They ducked inside. Up the questionable stairs was a defunct weapon's tower, obviously replaced by the turrets lining the arena edge; used to shot geonosian prisoners who tried to fly away. It was the perfect sniper's nest for Boba.

"Ok," Anakin said, as Boba set up his rifle. "This should work; no one should even look here for you. Once I set off the explosives I'll make a run for Padme, Quinlan, and buir—your buir. You'll cover me so I can focus on them and then clear a way out of the arena. Clear?"

Boba gave him a side eye as he checked his rifle. "Considering it's my plan, yes," he snarked. "Have you checked your laser sword? Don't want it to jam, or however they can glitch."

"Lightsaber," Anakin corrected, reaching for it. "And I checked it on...oh no."

"What's wrong now?" Boba sighed, checking his sights.

"I don't have it."

"Don't have what?" He asked, exasperated. Then it clicked and he whipped around. "You're lightsaber?" Anakin nodded, stricken. "How do you not have your lightsaber? Isn't that, like, the signature of a Jedi?"

Anakin buried his face in his hands, mortified. "I was so worried about mom and Padme and the mission I forgot to get it from R2," he groaned, shaking his head in horror. "Da is gonna kill me. He's always reminding me to keep it safe. It's the heart of a Jedi, it's our life."

"Like Beskar'gam?" Boba asked, furious. "Then you're double an idiot. How are you going to get them free without it?"

Anakin looked at the arena and blinked, surprised. "Don't need to," he pointed as Quinlan, Padme, and Fett got free by themselves. They were all doing great and allowed Anakin to put his shame aside; he'd meditate it away when lives weren't in danger. "Ok, modified plan," Anakin decided, nodding to himself as he spoke. "I've got three blasters and you've got a spare, right?" Boba drew and handed it over without a word. "Ok. We set off the explosives, I run the blasters to them, and we shot our way out. We meet at the rendezvous and head for the ship. Then they're in charge."

"Don't bob your head off," Boba chided.

"Don't be a brat!"

"Chill out, di'kut," Boba snapped, glaring.

"I don't know how to chill in this situation!" Anakin declared, throwing his arms up. "I'm training to be a diplomat, not a soldier. My job it to avoid these situations, talk my way out. Violence is supposed to be a last option!"

"It's a Mando'ade's first option," Boba said, rolling his eyes. "Look, we're running out of- Osik!"

"Padme!" Even from their perch Anakin could see the Nexu drew blood. "We go!"

Anakin threw himself back down the stairs, pulling out the detonator. As he burst out the bugs nearest took notice. Before they even thought of moving, he flicked the switch. BOOM! The ground shook. Startled, the bugs took off; Anakin forgotten.

He hunkered down and loped down the steps, headed for the arena. He hadn't gotten far when BOOM! Another, closer explosion. The ground and walls CRACKED! Rubble rained down. The force SCREAMED about Boba. Anakin whipped around to see the pillar splitting, a crack running for Boba's hiding place.

"BOBA! JUMP!" He shouted.

Boba didn't hesitate, slinging the rifle on his back as he launched himself out the window just before the room collapsed. Anakin yanked him out of the air. The boy came crashing into his chest, nearly knocking them both over. Anakin got his footing and put him down, both taking a breath. But—CRACK—they were still in trouble. A great slab of the pillar was letting go, droid sized rubble crushing everything around them.

Instinct and the Force took over. Grabbing Boba's arm, Anakin swung the boy onto his back. Boba instantly latched on as Anakin took off. Dodging through the falling debris and panicked bugs, Boba yelling warning in his ear, reminded Anakin of his obstacle training with giggling younglings on his back; but even scarier. Boba was a lot more helpful than the younglings, pulling Anakin's blaster and shooting anyone that tried to stop them so Anakin didn't need to break stride.

They reached the banister around the arena and Anakin...jumped!

"AAAAAAAHHHHHH!" Boba screamed as they dropped the 30 feet into an empty cart.

Landing, Anakin drew a blaster and shot the two bugs that swung their spears at him, before letting Boba down. "You okay?" He asked the boy.

"THAT WAS AWSOME!" Boba declared, throwing his arms up. "It was like using a jet pack without the fire! Can we do it again?"

Anakin grinned, grabbing the reigns. "Later," he promised. "Let's get buir first."

Anakin snapped the reigns; the creature was off. They zipped along, Boba sniping any bugs that came too close. With Quinlan and Padme on the Reek, Anakin steered toward Fett. He was fighting off bugs with an arm long knife; where'd that come from? He dispatched the last of them as they approached. Anakin pulled in a breath to yell, but the Force screamed a warning. BOOM!

The cart flipped. They were thrown to the ground, the world spinning. Anakin scrambled to his feet and threw himself into the sideways cart, Fett hauling Boba in next to him. The Force shouted and Anakin turned to see Padme and Quinlan thrown from the reek. They tumbled onto their feet and quickly started for the cart. Blaster fire filled the air. Anakin Grabbed them with the Force and yanked them to the cart. They crashed into the three there, everyone shouting in surprise.

"Watch it!" Boba griped, pushing Quinlan off him.

"Is anyone hurt?" Padme asked, trying to scan everyone.

"You're the one with the cut up back," Anakin said, crawling over the examine the bloody cuts.

"Nothing pressing," she insisted, pushing him off.

"That is!" Quinlan called, pointing to the large doors.

B1, B2, and droidikas poured into the arena. Anakin passed around the blasters and they started firing back. Blaster fire rained down on their position, with no way to make a run for better cover. The Force assured Anakin there was a way out, but they had to wait a bit longer. They didn't have much time, but okay?

"About those explosions earlier," Quinlan started, earning a groan from Fett. "Was that you two?"

"Yes," Anakin answered, pulling Padme out of the way of a bolt.

"Did you plant any by the power generators?"

"Of course not," Boba scoffed, sniping two B2s. "We wanted a distraction, not a natural disaster."

"Let me see the detonator," Quinlan said, holding his hand out; Anakin gave it to him. "Ah ha! I see the problem. It's set to the same frequency as my bombs; they have a 2 second delay in case I'm too close."

"Your bombs?" Fett growled, changing position to take out a trio of B1s and kick Quinlan in the shin. "You planted bombs? Why am I only hearing this now?"

"I forgot," Quinlan shrugged, slipping a B2, causing it to misfire on several other droids before squishing a droidikas. "I got in the habit of planting explosives whenever I infiltrate a dangerous facility, in case I need a large distraction. And if I get away clean and they find them later it freaks the bad guys." Quinlan laughed. "They can spend weeks trying to find me while I'm chilling at the Temple. It's great."

"What the fuck is wrong with you?" Boba demanded.

"Language!" Anakin snapped while Quinlan sighed: "Where to even begin?"

"Not that this isn't entertaining," Padme ground out, taking a cadre of B1s out at the knees. "But shouldn't we be looking for a way to escape our imminent demise?"

The Force sang out, making Quinlan and Anakin smile. "Help is already here."

Lightsabers ignited around the arena, adding to the chaos. Blue and green sabers chased the last of the bugs from the stands. A single purple Lightsaber appeared in the King's box, illuminating Dooku's throat.

"It's the Order!" Anakin cheered.

"Oh good," Fett grumbled. "More Jetiise."

Chapter Text

Something in Mace twisted painful at the man before him. Dooku had been a frequent visitor to the temple when Mace was growing up. He was always bringing in artifacts and books rescued from the black market or forgotten temples. When he could be pinned down the council could get him to teach saber classes, which Mace had been lucky enough to attend. The man had been incapable of softness even then, but his sharp encouragement had led Mace to perfecting Vapaad, gaining his own mastery. He had looked up to the older man his entire life and been heart sick to see him leave the Order, but he understood. The Jedi were too beholden to the Senate, they all knew that, but Mace had decided the best way to change that from a council seat. A seat he had gained because Dooku had inspired him to find the uncommon path and walk it confidently.

Seeing his childhood hero shrouded in darkness broke his heart.

"Master Windu," Dooku chuckled as the other Separatist leaders scampered away. "How nice of you to join us."

"This party is over," Mace replied, shoving his pain down to process later; no need to let Dooku know how much this was upsetting.

"As if on cue, the Jedi around the arena ignited their sabers, scaring off the of the Geonosians, before jumping into the area. They dashed to get between Vos's party and the relentless droids. Dooku sighed.

"Brave," he said. "But foolish, my old friend. You are impossibly outnumbered."

"You underestimate the Order," Mace said, no longer able to hold back his hurt. "What happened to you? You wanted to free the Order to follow the Force. How could falling ever accomplish that?"

Something flashed through Dooku. It was there and gone in a blink, easy to miss and impossible to decipher. But Mace could have sworn it was confusion. Did he have doubts about that as well? Maybe he wasn't completely lost yet.

"He had his eyes opened," came a drawl from the shadows. "Only the dark side gives true freedom."

A scarlet saber burst to life, swinging for Mace's head. He deflected with his own, batting it away. The next strike locked their blades and Mace came face-to-face with another phantom of the Order: Xanatos Du Crion.

"Hello, Mace," Xanatos chuckled. "Surprised to see me?"

"Not really," Mace said, shoving him back. "Boba Fett told us you were here."

Xanatos snarled. "That family ruins all the fun," he growled. "I was going to enjoying watching that little shit Vos die, but those two brats had to spoil it. Guess I'll just have to kill him myself."

"You really think a failed padawan can defeat one of the Order's best shadows?" Mace goaded; he didn't think falling had helped the man's temper any.

Xanatos snarled and made to attack, but Dooku caught his arm.

"He's goading you, grandpadawan," He informed Xanatos firmly. "Remember, his style is best employed against an angered dark sider."

Xanatos snarled and shook his hand off but held back from attacking. Before anyone could move, the Force HOWLED in pain. Mace felt one of his Jedi's lives wink out. Fear and anguish rippled through the arena at their lose before being released into the Force. Mace tried to do the same, but the guilt that accompanied it twisted tight and sunk hooks in his heart. He'd known leading his people into this could lead to fatalities, but feeling it happen was so much worse than he could imagine.

Having this many Jedi on a single mission hadn't happened in decades; maybe not even since the Sith wars when they'd been legion. They should be an unstoppable force, that is what the public believed, but they weren't. In the end they were still mortal, capable of mistakes and death. It was soul shattering to realize they'd followed him into.

The Force shouted, yanking him from his spiral in time to deflect a blaster bolt headed for his heart. A cadre of B2 battle droids had appeared in the hall and were shooting at him. He deflected them easily but couldn't deal with them and two Sith. Dooku ignited his saber and the pair lunged for him. Mace back flipped away, throwing himself over the ledge.

He landed in the arena, tumbling through the dirt and back to his feet. He backed into the battle circle, deflecting bolts and slicing droids as he went. He found himself between Master Kit Fisto and his old padawan, Knight Depa Billaba. He was grateful to find them safe and at his side. Beyond Depa he could see the body of knight Misha Lin, a smoking hole where his heart should be. He'd been knighted only a week ago; his master was trying to push through the blaster first to collect his body.

"Well," Kit chuckled, trying to lighten the dismal mood.; they were holding their ground and waiting for reinforcements. "This is a troubling turn of events."

"Kit, please," Mace sighed, deflecting blasts the down three B1s.

Depa shrugged, throwing a downed B2 to topple three others. "I've been in worse."

"Excuse me?" Mace asked, trying to remember if she'd ever submitted a mission report even remotely like this; he didn't put it past her to gloss over the worst of it to keep his blood pressure down. "When?"

"Ballan."

"Oh," He said, recalling the disastrous mission—one of her last as a padawan—that found them fighting a small army of barely competent pirates on the side of a volcano. "We had a better exit strategy." Depa laughed and nodded, taking out a droidika.

"Didn't that planet explode?" Kit asked, slicing a bold B2.

"It was not our fault," Mace insisted, making Depa snicker. The pirates had stupidly activated a Sith failsafe that was amplified by the Volcano the temple was built into. It had created a feedback loop that turned the entire continent into a crater and fractured the planet, knocking it out of orbit.

"Not completely," Depa said, smirking at him. They'd been the ones to open the temple.

"Depaaa," He growled in warning.

"Yes, master?" She asked innocently.

The Force Howled again. Master Kanna Vel went down, dead before she hit the ground. Her padawan panicked and tried to reach her. Padawan Rashu fell next to their master, clutching her hand as their last act.

Jedi rushed to fill the hole, but it was already cascading. Master Kite Ran-shu took a blaster to the back of his head. Knight V'miah threw himself on a detonator to save the Jedi around him. The reek had recovered and charged through the circle, trampling four Jedi. One staggered back up with bruises, two clutched at broken bones, and last would never rise again. They were falling fast.

"Mace, what do we do?" Kit asked, trying to a blaster burn to the shoulder.

"Where the hell is Kenobi?" Depa snarled, pushing back a cadre of B1s getting too close.

Mace was trying to figure that all out. He'd never been in command of this many people in a hostile environment. He was struggling for direction. He felt fear bubbling in his throat, trying to choke him. He called on the Force, letting it wash the fear away and filling him with clarity. Help was coming. His ob was to keep his people alive until it arrived. He could do this.

"Someone get that damn Reek under control!"  He called, reaching out in the Force so the others could hear him; Three Jedi shifted their focus to the rampaging beast. "Pull in tighter! No gaps! We need a clear landing zone for ships.

As one the Jedi back peddling, forming a tight circle to protect each other. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Skywalker hauling Senator Amidala with them. The Mandalorian, Fett, had bodily lifted Boba as he followed Vos into the circle. The Jedi right around them had formed a strong defense to support their blaster fire, cutting down droids as they came in range. Amongst the fear, pain, and chaos Mace could feel a whisper of joy at the formation. As if the Force celebrated the Jedi focused solely on protection while blasters cut down the enemy; as if this was the way things were supposed to be. He'd have to meditate on that later.

A tug from the Force pulled a sliver of Mace's attention. A familiar Force presence was descending from the clouds, nearly lost in the blinding sea of life around them. Obi-wan and his troops. They glowed bright in the Force; brighter than most sentients Mace had met. Their minds were full of emotion but shared a single focus so loud it became words: Protect the Jedi. That was a new one.

"About damn time!"

Chapter Text

The sight below was horrific. The Jedi had circled to protect themselves from the relentless droid army. Obi-wan could feel Anakin and Quinlan amongst them, fighting to survive alongside Boba, Padme, and Fett. They were all giving their all, but the cost was steep. Jedi were dropping fast, their lights winking out in the Force as he watched their bodies fall. They needed help. Now!

"T-minus 20 seconds!" The pilot of their LAAT/i called back.

"Prepare for jump," Commander Cody called to the men. "Remember, this is an extraction. We get our people and then move out, so the bombers have a clear shot."

"Sir, yes, sir!" The troopers called back.

"You're with me, Obi'buir," He said to Obi-wan. "We'll find Fett's party and evacuate them."

"Understood, commander," Obi-wan nodded.

It had taken the entire flight from Kamino to convince Cody, Wolffe, Bly, and Ponds that, no, they really were in charge, not the Jedi. It helped when Skirata pointed out that Cody could order Obi-wan to stay out of danger. Obi-wan didn't like it, but knew the men were already protective of him so he let it stand. For now.

At Cody's command, Obi-wan and the men jumped, landing amongst the circle of Jedi and joining the fight. With the troopers now firing at the droids the Jedi could focus purely on defense. Their blades provided a near impenetrable barrier, and the Force settled in a way Obi-wan had never known in battle; he'd meditate on that later. The gunships circled overhead, providing support as they secured a landing point. Obi-wan reached for his bonds to Quinlan and Anakin. He directed Cody towards them and their 5-man unit moved through the circle. Unsurprisingly, all five of the supposed "prisoners" had joined the fight.

"Da!" Anakin called, delighted as Obi-wan fell in to guard them with his saber.

"Anakin," he replied, happy to see his padawan mostly unhurt. "Glad you're alright. But what have you done to this place?"

Anakin's eyes went wide in alarm; still so young. "It's Quinlan's fault," He blurted.

"Ani lost his Lightsaber!" Quinlan verbally deflected as he downed a geonosian in the air.

"Lies!" Anakin burst, blushing with shame. "It's safe....with R2 and my mom."

Obi-wan sighed; these two would turn him grey, he just knew it. "We'll discuss both matters later," He told them, getting twin sheepish grins. "For now, I'm glad your mother is alright, Anakin." Around them the number of droids had thinned enough for the carriers to start landing to collect Jedi; or try, as the Jedi kept trying to get the troopers on first. Jedi really struggled with being the recipients of rescue missions. "And I think it's time we got out of here. Commander Cody?" The man had fallen in at his side like this was their 20th battle, not their first.

"15 seconds," Cody reported.

"Cody?" The younger Fett called. "Suy'cu gar, Vod'ika."

Cody snorted, his helmet turning it to static. "Suy'cu gar, Ori'ika." Boba scowled at the nickname.

"Can I ask what the plan is once we're out of here?" Fett asked, unknowing of hostility blooming in Cody towards the man.

"We're going to bomb the facility to destroy the factory and droids," Obi-wan answered. "Not my idea, but I can't deny it would be effective. We've already declared war as is."

"Sorry," senator Amidala said, mostly meaning it as she blasted droids. "We did try to avoid that."

"That won't work," Fett interrupted. "The heart of the factory is too far underground. Your bombs won't reach it."

"The tunnels are also reinforced," Quinlan added. We either take the planet or plant on the bomb on the main reactor."

"Do you know where it is?" Cody asked as the gunship set down behind them. Quinlan shook his head.

"I have a map with all 3 marked," Fett answered, pushing Boba toward the carrier. "As well as the 2 back-ups. I'll send it to you HUD. Osik!"

A new wave of droids rushed into the arena, laying down heavy fire. Obi-wan, Fett, and Cody were still on the ground, the rest of their group loaded. Obi-wan hesitated. He needed to protect Anakin and Padme, but he didn't want to leave Cody and the other troopers without a Jedi. Suddenly Fett shoved him onto the ship.

"Go!" He ordered. "I'll watch out for you kids; you watch mine."

Obi-wan looked to Cody, who nodded. The ship took off. As they climbed, he watched the last troopers form up around Cody and Fett, their LAAt/i circling as they waited for a chance to land.

A stray shot struck Cody in the helmet. He hit the ground. Only the fact he couldn't manage the landing kept Obi-wan from jumping down to him. He tugged on their fledgling bond. He was alive, but unconscious. Fett shifted to protect him.

Obi-wan took a breath and let his fear go. Fett had been sincere in his promise, he would protect Obi-wan's sons. Obi-wan had to focus on his own charged.

At his side Boba was staring down at his father, swathed in fear for him. Obi-wan placed a hand on his shoulder; the boy leaned into it. Obi-wan turned to see Anakin had found a medic to help him quickly bandage Padme's wound. Quinlan was behind Obi-wan and sent comfort to his friend, giving him a wan smile. This was everything they'd spent their lives trying to prevent.

As they cleared the arena roof the Force tugged at him. He, Quinlan, and Anakin all turned to see a ship streaking out across the sand. It burned with the Dark Side.

"Dooku and Du Crion!" Obi-wan called, pointing the ship out to the troopers.

Cody's second called it in; Commander Neyo, he believed.

"Dooku is in charge of the Separatists," Quinlan reminded him. "If we capture him, we can end the war before it starts."

"We have civilians," Obi-wan reminded them, gesturing to Boba and Padme.

"Hey," Boba protested. "I'm as well trained as them." He nodded at the troopers.

"I won't shy away from actions that could save lives," Padme said, burning with that same determination that allowed her to reclaim her planet.

Obi-wan shook his head. "It is not my decision to-"

"General Skirata has ordered us after them," Neyo interrupted. "We're the only carrier without serious wounded in the vicinity. He'll send back up as soon as he can."

Padme, Boba, and Quinlan smiled triumphantly. Obi-wan was not happy but kept his peace as Neyo instructed the pilot to change course. Obi-wan reached into his tunic to pull out Qui-gon's saber. He didn't always carry it, but never hesitated when it grew restless as his master used to; it had proven both aid and comfort many times. He handed it to Quinlan. He took it and carefully clipped it to his belt, knowing the trust Obi-wan was putting in him.

"Sith are not to be taken lightly," Obi-wan informed the carrier. "They have all the powers of the Jedi but none of our honor or restraint. Knight Vos and I are the only ones armed and trained to fight them."

"Dooku was one of the best duelists in the Order," Quinlan told Neyo. "And Xanatos was a relentless fighter as a kid. Now they've fallen I'm not sure we can beat them both on our own, so any support you can give would be appreciated."

Neyo nodded. "They're most likely headed to a bunker or ship to leave the planet," he told the transport. "If it's a bunker we'll seal them in until reinforcements arrive. If it's a hangar we secure the ship and back up the Jedi so the Sith can't escape again. If you can get a clean shot on either target, take it. Otherwise, the object is to create an opening for Knight Vos and Obi'buir."

"You already have a cute nickname," Quinlan chuckled. Obi-wan scowled at him; this wasn’t the time.

“What can I do?" Boba asked Neyo.

The commander seemed startled the boy was even talking to him, but Anakin covered for him: "There could be useful information there. You and I can search for it while Dooku and Du Cron are distracted, maybe sabotage their ship. Padme can-"

"Back up the troops," she interjected forcefully.

The transport went deathly quiet. No one liked the idea of a civilian in a battle zone. But they were also unwilling to argue with the petite woman; she'd proven her mettle already.

"I'd feel better with her at our back," Quinlan piped up before she could turn her challenging glare on the troopers. "She's almost as good a shot as Fett."

Neyo nodded, uncertain but willing to take his word for it. "Captain Rex," the trooper next to Anakin snapped to attention. "You’re with Padawan Skywalker and Boba. Take Jesse and Hardcase."

The three of them nodded, filled with trepidation but determined.

"I don't need babysitters," Boba protested. Rex was not impressed.

"Calling trained soldiers tasked with serving as your backup babysitters indicates otherwise," Obi-wan chided, earning a pout from the boy. "Please, Boba, I promised your father I'd protect you."

Boba deflated. "Fine."

The matter settled they turned, ready for the coming battle.

Chapter Text

Cody came too on a carrier. Medic Kix was leaning over him, poking at his head. His helmet was gone. In his periphery he could see Fett hovering, and past him other vode. At least two were being supported by their brothers, yet Cody was getting Kix's attention; not good.

"He's awake," Fett informed Kix. "You with us, Kot'ika?"

Cody bristled at the childhood nickname, but kept his tongue, nodding. He pulled himself to sitting, ignoring Kix's sound of protest. He saw spotted the remains of his helmet on the ground. It was shattered at the temple, same place he felt a dull pain, and there were jagged edges showing it had been cut off his head.

"Any dizziness?" Kix asked. Cody shook his head, glad it didn't make him queasy like previous head injuries. "How many fingers am I holding up?"

"Three," Cody answered confidently.

"Ok," Kix sighed in relief. "If you can stay on your feet I think you're good to keep going, but I want you in medical the second they don't need you. No excuses."

Ah, so he'd heard about his habit of skipping the med-bay. Thanks, Plaste. He'd have to have a chat with the Alpha batch medic about sharing personal information when he got back. Actually, scratch that, Hypo would just smack him up the head and lecture him on proper health care; he'd heard that speech enough in his life already.

"I'll make sure he gets there, Kix," Fett promised. He held out a hand to Cody. "Back on your feet, ad."

Cody's gut instinct was to smack his hand away. This man had ordered training that bordered on torture when they got out of line, beat them black and blue on the mats, and allowed his vod'ike decommissioned by those demegolka long necks. He'd agreed to make them to fight and die in a war he wasn't part of, for reasons no one understood. He was a monster.

He was going to keep the vode?

Vos found a device in buir's head.

When he came back he was...different.

He was going to keep the vode.

That wasn't the real Fett. The monster he'd faced was the result of Sith tampering. The real Fett wanted to make them a clan, even the "defective" ones. It didn't erase what had happened—nothing could bring back their lost brothers—but it was enough for Cody to give him a chance. He took the man's hand and let him pull him to his feet.

Out the sides of the LAAT/i he got a good look at the situation. They were coming into land near the rear command center. The troops had engaged the droids and the medic tents were already in full use. Under the command tent, Skirata with several Jedi. Four of the Nulls were at the communications hubs giving orders while Wolffe, Bly, Ponds, Fox, Bacara, Gree, and Alpha-17 stood with the Jedi. But where was Obi-buir? Were he and the others in the medic tent? Had they not made it back yet?

The carrier landed and Cody took off toward command. Kix made another sound of protest, but he ignored him. In his periphery he could see Fett a step behind him; he shoved away the old nerves that caused. He'd deal with his conflicting emotions later, right now he had to look after his vode.

"Glad you made it," Skirata greeted them. "Alor Fett, Commander Cody. These are knight Aayla Secura and Luminara Unduli. Masters Yoda, Plo Koon, and Ki-Adi-Mundi of the council. And Master Mace Windu, head of the Order. The other Jedi have joined the front, supporting the troops."

"So much for not joining the military," Alpha grossed.

"Our responsibility, Obi-wan has made you," the small green troll named Yoda said. "Take this seriously, we do." The other Jedi nodded.

Alpha seemed mollified.

"We were just trying to figure out an alternate way to deal with the factory and droids," Skirata forged on. "You have the maps, Jango?"

He was already tapping on his gauntlet and a map of the tunnels was projected over the table. A few more taps and five blinking lights appeared. More data soon tagged the various tunnels with patrols, shielding, and traps. It was bad.

Skirata nodded at the display. "How do we handle this?" He asked the commanders.

"We need to take out the generators," Bly reminded them. "Small units should be able to go in and plant explosions. If we rig the generators, the explosions should cause a chain reaction throughout the entire system as well collapse the tunnel system. It'll render the whole place inaccessible for decades. What?"

Alpha-17 was shaking his head. "It's a death trap down there," He answered. He pointed to the tight tunnels, blind corners, and active patrols. "The patrols will have doubled with the battle on the surface, and there's no way to know how many droids have joined them. We can't guarantee a single team reaches a target, let alone five. And if they're cornered there's no way to send them support in time, assuming the comms can even penetrate the bedrock." He hit a few keys on the holo table, bringing up live feed of a mobile sphere surrounded by droids. "Our priority should be the droid control towers. Knock them out and the droids are nothing but scrap. Then we can go in and take out the geonosians."

"That will lengthen the battler," Fox protested. "We'll lose too many vode. We're trying not to die in this war, remember?"

"We may be able to assist," Windu spoke up. "We should be able to guide squads through the tunnels to the generators. The geonosians are easy to sense in the Force now that they're awake and any incoming attacks."

"We may also be able to assist in reaching the control towers," Koon said.

"Sir," Cody stepped forward. "Protecting us is one thing, but leading an assault is military action. Is that allowed?"

"Lead, we cannot," Yoda said, with a mischievous smirk. "But to guide, a Jedi's truest calling is."

"We are here to protect you," Secura reminded them. "And the best way to do that is to end this battle as soon as possible."

"We will not sacrifice you to this war, Commander," Mundi said, earning sharp nods from his fellow Jedi. They weren't as amiable as Obi-buir, but they were all as determined to look after the vode. That left Cody wondering who was looking out for the Jedi.

"Alright," Skirata said, taking back control. "We'll send out orders for the troopers to work with the Jedi to cut through the droids. Alpha-17, head to the forward command station, focus on the towers." He nodded and moved to a waiting gunship. "Who of you is staying here?" He asked the Jedi as he manipulated the table back to the tunnel map.

"Remain, I shall," Yoda declared.

Skirata nodded and quickly labeled the generators on the map. "Wolffe, Koon, take main generator 1. Bly, Secura, Main 2. Ponds, Windu, Main 3. Bacara, Mundi, Back-up 1. Gree, Unduli, Back-up 2. You have 5 minutes to put together a 4-man team and then get in those tunnels. Set the explosions to go off in an hour and 20." They nodded and left.

"Cody," Skirata turned to him. "Kenobi's carrier spotted Dooku's transport and went after it."

"What?" Fett demanded, jerking away from staring at the communications hubs. "Boba is on that ship!"

"They were the only ones without wounded," Skirata said. "We need to grab the count and Du Crion if we want to contain this war. I've already got two ships ready to go after them. I want you and Cody on them."

"No," Fett said, fists clenched tight. "I can't go."

"Why not?" Skirata snapped.

"I'm compromised," Fett ground out. "That device Du Crion put in my head is still messing with my head. I've been fighting with my sense of reality since Vos deactivated it. Until it's removed, I'm a liability. I won't put my pride before Boba's safety."

Cody was shocked and impressed. That was a hard choice to make, but it was right. If he was struggling with reality he needed to stay out of the fighting. And far away from the man who put that thing in his head.

"I'll take the second unit," Fox offered, getting a nod from Skirata.

"Accompany you, I will," Yoda said, ears drooping sadly. "My padawan, Dooku was. My responsibility, he is."

"Vos said he was under the same manipulation I was," Fett said, shocking them all. "When Vos questioned both of us about Galidraan it triggered some kind of Sith spell. I'm not sure you can break through it, but it might disable him so you can pacify him and Du Crion."

"Thank you," Yoda said, bowing deeply to Fett. "Keep this in mind, I shall."

"Cody, a new helmet is waiting on your transport," Skirata said. "Move out!"

He saluted and took off, Fox and Yoda right behind him.

Luminara was leaning heavily into her training to appear calm. There were so many sentients around her with strong, focused minds, but minimal shielding. Their nervousness, determination, and need to please echoed her own emotions and made it difficult to release them into the Force. She'd always considered her calm apprenticeship and early knighthood a blessing compared to her agemate Quinlan and their friend Obi-wan's turbulent careers. But right now, she wished she had their experience in conflicts to steady her.

Commander Gree was a steady rock, focused and clear. Luminara stayed close to him, listening to his gather his squad with half an ear. He spoke perfect basic, voice clear and carrying, yet Luminara was confused by what he was saying. It took her a while to realize it was because they weren't slang or military terms, but names. The troopers had been given numbers by the Kaminoans, those who had names had chosen themselves or given by their brothers. She made sure to link those names to their Force presences.

"Are you alright, ma'am?" Gree asked as the squad prepared to move out.

Luminara sighed, disappointed with herself. "Merely nervous, Commander. This is my first war zone."

A spark of morbid amusement escaped him, making her smile. "Our's too, ma'am," He said. "But we've got your back."

"And I your's."

Mace fell in next to Commander Ponds as they entered the tunnel. It was an off tunnel, used for sleeping, that had emptied some time ago. It wasn't the most direct roue to the generator, but that was currently choked with droids. Skirata and Fett had given them a longer route that was usually less frequented by patrols. Hopefully that proved true.

It had been a few years since Mace had been in a battle. He had hoped that would be his last; he always hoped that. So much death, anger, and sorrow choked the Force and filled his vision with shatter points. No matter how much he resisted, he was always thrust into a leader's role, always had to take the front line. Always had to be responsible for more lives than he could save.

At least this time he had Commander Ponds. Ponds and his men were a glassy pond in the Force, calm and controlled, a buffer against the chaos ragging above. Being able to trust Ponds to lead meant he didn't have to worry about his gift putting them at risk. Al he had to worry about was sensing danger and protecting the men. Ponds would handle the rest.

Danger rang out from around the next corner.

"Enemies ahead," He told Ponds.

The commander brought them to a stop. "Droids or organics?" Ponds asked.

"Droids. Headed this way."

Ponds nodded. "Take point and guard, we'll take them out." Mace nodded back.

He stepped forward, igniting his saber. Ponds used hand signals and the men jumped into action. They tucked into cover along the walls, behind pillars and outcroppings. Ponds fell in behind him, just outside lightsaber range, with no other cover. He was trusting Mace to protect him, and the Jedi Master wouldn't let him down.

Aayla was very glad for his unorthodox apprenticeship with Quinlan. It gave her the ability to jump right into a dangerous situation and keep focused. It also allowed her to hold a lively debate with Commander Bly as she provided cover for the troops as they moved through an unexpectedly occupied chamber. He was lovely.

"Armor is vital," Bly insisted, taking out a B2 with perfect accuracy. "It protects you from surprises."

"I have a Force," She said, deflecting a shot at a stalagmite that took out 3 droids. "It warned me of danger so I can protect myself."

"Can the force protect you from explosions?" Bly growled. He did not like how exposed she was; it was highly amusing.

"No," Aayla conceded. "But it gives me enough warning to find cover or get clear."

"That sounds damn helpful," One of the other troopers said, dropping a droidika before it's shield could deploy.

"Shut up, Tempo," Bly snapped, making Aayla chuckle. "It's still not safe. What about-?"

"Grenade!" Someone shouted.

Aayla was already raising her hand to catch it. She winged it back at the droids, striking the tunnel entry they were coming through. BOOM! The opening collapsed, taking out the back line of droids. The Force called out, but there was no time to raise her saber. Aayla threw herself between Bly and a bolt headed for his heart.

"Aayla!"

She yelped in pain, collapsing into him. He pulled her to his chest and out of the line of fire. It took just a minute for the other troopers to take out the last of the droids. Stitches, their medic, turned his attention to Aayla. The bolt had hit her in the shoulder, leaving an ugly and painful burn. But it was her non-dominant arm and had instantly cauterized. As Stitches wrapped it and made her a sling she pushed her pain into the Force.

"She's in no danger," Stitches told Bly, who was still holding her.

"What were you saying about armor?" Aayla joked, smiling up at Bly.

His helmet gave nothing away, but she could feel his irritation and concern clearly. Without a word he took off his pauldron and secured it to her shoulder over the wound. The others went still with shock, but she wasn't sure why.

"Thank you, commander," She said, letting him help her stand. "I'll return this once we are done."

"No need," Bly said, earning another flash of surprise from the men. "I can get another. Are you good to go, ma'am?"

She nodded and took point once more, Bly at her side.

This was bad. Plo and the men had reached the generator to find it crawling with droids. Fett's security estimates had seemed pessimistic, but this was much worse. There was nothing they could do now. Plo and Wolffe's squad provided cover as Demon and Sinker worked on the generator. Demo was setting the explosives while Sinker sabotaged the safety protocols.

"ETA!" Wolffe demanded as B2 fire pinned him and Plo behind cover.

"3 more seconds," Sinker called as Boost took out the B1s trying to flank him.

"Done!" Demo declared, just dodging a bolt. He tumbled in next to Wolffe, firing at the approaching droids.

"I'm not sure how we can get out of this, sir," Boost said, yanking Sinker from the console as soon as he was finished. "We're surrounded."

"We need a distraction," Demo said, stating the obvious.

"Quite so," Plo agreed. "I'll draw their fire so you can escape."

"Excuse me?" Sinker asked.

"And how will you escape?" Wolffe asked, angry and worried.

"My priority is your safety," Plo told him, releasing his worries of his imminent demise into the Force. "If it costs my life to see you safe it is a price I will gladly pay."

"Well, I won't," Wolffe snapped. "There are literally thousands of us, sir. We're replaceable, you're not."

"Not to me," Plo said forcefully, earning shock from the men. "Each one of you is a life worth saving. I won't see any of you die if I can prevent it."

They were stunned into silence. Plo was reminded these men were raised to be soldiers in a war, most of their lives forfeit before they could walk. It was horrific to contemplate and Plo would not let it become reality. Young Obi-wan and his clan were risking the wrath of the galaxy to give them a future, Plo would not see it lost before it even began.

"Thank you, sir," Demo said, glowing with wonder and admiration along with his brothers. "But I was thinking we'd use the spare explosives Boost is carrying."

Even with his helmet on, Wolffe's glare could be felt trying to set the trooper on fire.

Plo chuckled. "That will do perfectly, Demo."

The light at the end of the tunnel. Ki almost chuckled at the thought as they hurried out of the facility. The maze-like tunnels were hardly the worst place Ki had been to during his career, but he was ready to be shot of it. At his side was Commander Bacara, possibly one of the most remarkable men he'd ever met. The entire squad was remarkable and when this war was over, he'd rather like to introduce them to his daughters. But first, preventing galactic war.

At they neared the surface the Force signaled that the explosives were about to detonate. They had wanted to be out of the tunnels when it happened, but it was close enough. Maybe? Or not.

The ground trembled as the generators exploded. Two of the men stumbled, Ki grabbing Bacara to keep them both on their feet. Cracks appeared in the walls. The Force screamed. Ki reached out and pushed the troopers away from harm. The ceiling collapsed above him.

"Sir!" The men shouted, flaring with worry.

The debris had knocked Ki down and a boulder had slammed into his shin. It had rolled off, so he wasn't pinned, but the bone was broken. Bacara and Hypo were at his side in a flash, pulling him free as sand continued to fall. The tunnel was blocked, separating them from the other two who were radiating pain and confusion.

"Damn, Fett," Bacara growled. "He said the tunnels would hold."

"We must have underestimated the ballistic capability of the generators," Ki said, shoving his pain away and using the Force to hold his bones together so he could stand, leaning on Hypo to keep weight off it. "The men are trapped on the other side. Alive, but injured."

"How do we reach them?" Hypo asked, but Ki was already handling it.

He reached out with the Force and started removing the debris. He tried to be quick without destabilizing the compromised roof. It took several agonizing minutes, but the moment an opening big enough to crawl through appeared Bacara was through it. He maneuvered the men through, Hypo there to catch them. Arty was dazed, a bloody gash on the back of his head leaving him with a concussion. CT-2901's leg was broken in three places and a crushed foot. Bacara crawled out after him and Ki let the pile settle back down.

"A Medi-vac is on the way," Bacara informed them, helping 2901 to the floor. "Do we wait for them here?" He asked Hypo.

"I'd rather not move them," Hypo said, examining Arty's head. "But I'm not sure how stable the tunnel is anymore."

"It's settled for now," Ki reported, checking 2901 with his slightly more than basic medical training. "But the fighting outside could trigger a collapse at any moment. If you two can support 2901, I believe Arty can maintain enough grip for me to carry him."

"Your leg is broken," Hypo snapped. "Don't think I didn't notice."

"It is," Ki conceded, encouraging Arty to grab onto his shoulders. "But I am currently splinting it with the Force. I understand your concern, but treatment is out there and an unstable roof in here. The way forward is clear."

Hypo oozed discontent, but Bacara nodded. "Let's move."

Chapter Text

The generator explosions were not contained by the tunnel system. Their force cracked the ground and collapsed large sections of the battlefield. Helpfully, the majority of the damage was on the Droid side. Four of the nine droid control towers were destroyed in the collapse, whole battalions clattering to the ground, including a forward. The enemy lines broken, the troopers poured in and started cutting their formations apart.

Tiplee and her sister Tiplar were guarding Commander Doom and his unit. They’d taken the lead through the droids and were about to hit the first tower. The droids suddenly caught on and the fire increased. Commander Doom directed them to a collapsed tank for cover.

“Options,” Doom asked the troops, firing at the approaching droids.

“Call in a bomb strike?” someone suggested.

“We’re too close,” another said. “We have explosives, if we can get them inside.”

“We’re taking too much fire to try and climb,” Doom replied.

“There’s an exposed exhaust port,” A trooper said, scanning the tower. “Manufacturing mistake. It’s only big enough for small charges, but a few of those should be enough.”

“Where is it?” Tiplee asked, stepping in next to the trooper. He pointed it out about halfway up to the right.

“Can we dunk it?” Tiplar asked with a small smile.

“Yup,” Tiplee decided. “Commander Doom, we can handle it. You stay here and draw fire.”

“You need cover,” Doom protested. “I’ll back you up. Captain Rose, take command and give us a distraction.”

“Yes, sir,” Rose said, handing over his small explosives.

With a nod, Tiplee broke cover, Doom behind her, and Tiplar in the back. The troopers doubled their fire and started chucking explosives into the droids. The droids didn’t have the processing power to realize what was happening, so the trio made quick progress.

Tiplee slid to a stop in the Tower’s shadow. Doom fell in at her side and provided cover fire. Stowing her saber, Tiplee braced her hands and pulled on the Force. Tiplar doubled her speed, batting bolts away. She stepped into Tiplee’s hands and jumped, Tiplee pushing hard. Tiplar flew.

“Doom,” She called. He threw the chain of charges to her and she chucked it after her sister. “Go!” She shouted.

They took off running. Behind her she could sense Tiplar land on the tower, catch the charges, and start throwing them in. Once they were in Tiplar jumped. Tiplee skid to a stop, turning to pull and catch her sister. Tiplar landed, tumbling across the ground and popping back to her feet. They took off running again. The troopers made a hole and the Jedi and commander jumped back behind cover. Everyone ducked and Commander Doom hit the detonator.

BOOM!

The tower exploded, and the blaster fire abruptly ended. They peered over their cover to see the droids had cut out and fallen to the ground. Shocked delight burst from the troops. Rose laughed. Tiplee and Tiplar grinned at each other, quietly fist bumping like when they were padawans.

“Nicely done, ladies,” Commander Doom said, deeply impressed.

“Thanks for the cover,” Tiplee said with a wink. Tiplar rolled her eyes.

Commander Grey had led the unit to the western control tower. Depa had taken point as they cut through the chaos. The clanking of the droids was grating on her nerves and making it difficult to keep her cool; thank goodness she’d learned to balance the dark and light from her master. They cut through to the tower and realized this must be the primary tower, given it’s extra armor.

“We’re here,” one of the troopers commented. “Now how do we take it out?”

“All the weak points have been covered,” Another said. “We may need to hit the cockpit.”

“Under this fire?” The first asked, incredulous.

“Why go up when we can bring it down?” Depa asked of herself. “Commander, are you willing to follow my lead?”

“Yes, ma’am,” he said, a little too quickly for Depa’s piece of mind; they’d deal with that later.

“Attach the explosives to the lower part of the legs,” she ordered.

“They won’t penetrate the armor,” the second trooper informed her even as the others scrambled to comply.

“We’re not trying to damage the legs,” She informed him and Commander Grey. “There’s a large tunnel underneath us. I’m going to collapse it. I doubt it’ll destroy it, but it should allow you to reach the cockpit.”

“I have got to see this,” Grey chuckled.

Depa smiled. The troopers attached the charges and quickly returned to Grey and Depa to form up and return fire. Grey took the detonator and waited. Depa pushed her senses out and found the shatter points in the ground, something she’d learned being Mace’s apprentice. She applied pressure, readying to push when the charges ignited. She nodded and Grey hit the switch.

Boom!

The ground cracked and broke.

Woosh!

The tower vanished down the new whole, the blowback knocking over troopers and droids alike. Grey at her back kept Depa from falling over too. The droids started to stagger back up, but then Boom! The tower exploded and the droids went down.

“That was much deeper than I expected,” Depa said.

The troopers laughed.

Shaak watched the confusion caused by the ground collapsing under the droids. With the troops pressing their advantage the droids didn’t notice the gunship carrying Shaak and Captain Colt’s team. They were flying around the back to attack the rear control tower. She centered herself, ready for the approaching fight.

“Well, isn’t that helpful,” Captain Colt, earning a laugh from another trooper.

They’d come around the back to see the tower completely unprotected from the rear. Only a few confused droids marching in its shadow. A sink hole some paces back must have taken the rest out. It took just two shots to take out the defense canons on the tower. In just three minutes, they jumped on top of the tower, Shaak cut it open, and the troopers cleared it out. The droids hadn’t even had time to alert anyone they’d been boarded. That gave Shaak an idea.

“Captain Colt,” She said, drawing his attention from directing his troops to plant charges.

“Yes, Master Ti?” He asked politely.

“Perhaps we can use the ease of this mission to our advantage,” she said, moving over to the droid controls. “If I am not mistaken, we have a slicer with us? Perhaps we should put their skills to use.”

One of the troopers perked up.

“In what way?” Captain Colt asked, intrigued.

“A change of target?”

He looked to the trooper, who quickly nodded, bursting with excitement.

“Have at it,” Captain Colt said.

The trooper pounced on the controls with vigor as the others returned to the gunship. Captain Colt instructed the demolition expert to set a timer for 10 minutes, more then enough time for the reprogramed droids to cause some damage, but not enough for anyone to reclaim it.

With everything set Captain Colt, Shaak and the slicer, Volt, were the last back on the ship. They took off, flying back towards their lines. The troopers cheered as they watched the rear flank of droids attacking those in front of them. Shaak chuckled along with them.

Kit liked Commander Monnk a lot. Apparently, he and his men specialized in aquatic combat. Perfect, he and his padawan would take them swimming later. Nahdar was doing much better than Kit expected, keeping up with the troops and protecting them. Kit would worry at how easy he took to the battlefield, if the young man wasn’t shoving his nerves into the force like a sailor bailing out his boat in a storm. They’d have to have some serious down time after this.

“What’s that about?” Monnk asked as the rear flank of droids started attacking their own.

“Someone must have taken control of a tower,” Kit guessed, pleased. “I wonder who.”

“Can we do that?” Nahdar asked, dancing away from an aggressive B-2; quickly dealt with by the troopers.

“I don’t think so,” Monnk chuckled.

“But it gives me an idea,” Kit said, watching the flight paths of the vulture droids over head. “Commander Monnk, could one of you men hit one of those flying droids when I tell them?”

“Bush?” the commander asked one of his troopers, getting a nod.

“The one with the scorched under wing, if you please,” kit said, pointing out the droid as the others formed around them. “The left engine, or nearby. Ready?” Bush nodded. Kit waited for it to get into position. “NOW!”

Bush fired. And hit!

The vulture droid spun out and crashed directly into the tower cockpit. The droids around them ceased firing, collapsing to the ground. The troopers were shocked into silence. Nahdar cheered, the troopers soon joining him.

“Perfect shot, Bush,” Kit praised the trooper as his brother patted him on the back.

“Thank you, sir,” Bush replied, pleased.

“But it didn’t blow up,” one of the troopers pouted, getting a smack from Monnk.

Kit threw his head back and laughed. “I think we can correct that,” he said, eager to see the troopers happy; their joy in the force was dazzling. “Padawan? Ready for an exercise in lifting?”

Nahdar's eyes brightened with excitement. “Always, Master Fisto.”

Kit had the men place explosives under the tower, enough to get it off the ground. Once he and Nahdar were ready Commander Monnk detonated them. The Tower jolted off the ground. The Jedi pushed hard. The tower flew across the field, crashing into the last active tower. Boom!

“OYA!” The troopers shouted, cheering and laughing.

Nahdar collapsed to the ground, exhausted but laughing. That was definitely a superfluous use of Force and a bit of showboating, but Kit couldn’t regret it. The delight and wonder from the troops, and the pride glowing off his Padawan, were worth it. Their joy easily eclipsed the darkness and fear that choked battlefields, changing it’s imprint in the Force. The Force was bright in this moment.

Garan navigated his fighter into second with Captain Oddball’s flight wing. The minds of the men were focused, but also excited. Captain Oddball himself was a ball of energy, bouncy and chaotic. He was ready for this fight and Garen had to chuckle to himself. He’d felt much the same his first solo mission with the Jedi Aces. Probably inappropriate for such a consequential battle, but as the towers fell, he couldn’t blame him. With the Jedi supporting the clones they were cutting up the droid army with ease. The Force sang with the rightness of it. Obi-wan had made the right choice protecting these men.

“Prepare for run,” Oddball ordered, a smile in his tone.

The ships turned in perfect formation, circling the last tower. The ground droids, vulture droids, and tower guns focused their fire on them. Weather they knew they were the last ones standing was hard to say, but they were fighting like they were. Garen focused. 15 seconds to target. 10 seconds. 8. 6.

“PULL UP!” He shouted into the com, the Force screaming a warning.

“Break off!” Captain Oddball ordered and the ships scattered.

Garen pulled up hard. He looked down to see an entire tower flying toward the one they’d been headed for. The two collided in a massive explosion. Garen looked at its origin and saw Kit Fisto waving at him. He couldn’t see it from that far, but he knew the Nautolan was grinning like everything was perfectly fine.

“What the Kriff, Kit!” He shouted at no one.

“Did a Jedi do that?” One of the troopers asked over the com.

“A ridiculous Jedi and his enabler padawan,” Garen told them, annoyed.

Kit had been his crechmate Bant’s second master, after her first passed into the Force. When he learned about their group’s prank wars, he’d insisted Bant learn how to defend herself in the matter. Their opening move was to turn Quinlan, Garan, Obi-wan, and an unfortunate Master Jinn green; for two weeks! She was now the most terrifyingly competent prankster in the temple, and no one could prove it.

“New Orders,” Captain Oddball informed the pilots. “We’re escorting Commander Cody’s ships back to base. Form up.”

Garen fell in with them again and turned toward the desert. Five ships came over the horizon, four LAAT/is and a medi-vac ship. He could feel his crèche bonds to Obi-wan and Quinlan. Quinlan was on the Medi-vac, Obi-wan was in the lead ship with Master Yoda. The mood on the ship wasn’t happy, they hadn’t completed their mission. As they took up position around the ships he could better read Obi-wan. He was an endless well of grief, guilt, and sorrow. His friend was in terrible pain, and it only took Garen a moment to figure out why: That super nova presence that followed Obi-wan around like a tooka kit wasn’t there.

Where was Anakin?

Chapter Text

Following the two Sith felt like wading through an oil slick: dark, sticky, and toxic. The Darkness left in the jet trail amplified Obi-wan's anxiety. His greatest tormentor was on that ship. The behind some of the worst moments of his early apprenticeship. The figure that stalked the edges of his nightmares. What solace he'd taken knowing the man was dead had evaporated with Quinlan's report. The nightmare made real.

A landing tower appeared on the horizon. The sith were making to escape; Obi-wan wouldn't allow it. The pilot ignored the landing pad and pulled alongside the hanger doors. At Neyo's command they all jumped out. His unit surged forward to guard, Quinlan, Obi-wan, and Padme right behind them. Anakin snagged Boba and held him back, Rex, Jesse, and Hardcase forming up around them.

Neyo singled and they moved forward, Quinlan directing them to the two inky signatures. They moved quickly, catching the pair about to board their next ship. Dooku was just inside the ship while on the ramp was...on the ramp was...was...

Comfort and concern crashed over Obi-wan. It hit like a wave, washing away the panic trying to smother him. Quinlan and Anakin were shoving everything they could down their bonds to protect Obi-wan from the shock and trauma from seeing the nightmare made flesh. From seeing Xanatos.

"Hello, little brother," Xanatos sneered, ignoring the blasters pointed at him. "So glad you could join us."

"You're under arrest, Xanni," Quinlan said, pointing his borrowed saber at the pair. "You too Count. surrender."

"I don't think we shall," Dooku said, as Xanatos glared hatefully at the Saber.

He was clearly thrown off at seeing his hated former master's blade, which could prove an advantage. Dooku and Xanatos ignited their sabers, shifting into makeshi's opening stance. Xanatos shifted his weight to lunge.

"Fire!" Neyo ordered.

The troopers opened fire on the two sith. They deflected easily but couldn't move forward. Obi-wan and Quinlan surged forward to protect the men as the pair deflected shots toward them. Xanatos was furious, a storm cloud of rage, while Dooku kept his emotions locked down tight. Their ship was taking damage. They had to give ground, moving away from their escape. Something sparked from Xanatos to Dooku.

Xanatos ducked behind Dooku. He threw his hand out. A large rock was ripped from the wall. Xanatos hurled it at the troops. Obi-wan dropped his saber to catch it. He wasn't prepared for the weight and dropped it quickly, between the troops and Sith.

"Hold fire," Neyo called.

Quinlan jumped onto the rock. "They're taking the stairs!" He reported.

"Rex, take the ship," Neyo barked. "Hawk, radio command! Troops, forward!"

Obi-wan followed Quinlan over the rock and toward a flight of stairs. As they hit the first step the Force shouted. Obi-wan found Xanatos grinning coldly above them, the Force flexing around his hand. Obi-wan tackled Quinlan out of the way. Xanatos shattered the entry way supports and it came crashing down. When they found their feet again the doorway behind them was blocked and Xanatos gone.

"Obi-wan!" Padme shouted, alarmed. "Knight Vos!

"We're fine," Obi-wan called, dusting himself off.

"But annoyed," Quinlan said, shaking the dust out of his dreads. "Xanni was waiting for us."

"They want to separate you from us," Padme surmised.

"Quinlan and I can shift the rock," Obi-wan said, finding the structure secure.

"It'll take time we might not have," Quinlan countered.

"He's right," Neyo called. "They could have another ship. Go after them. Yoke says there's an open hanger on the next floor, I'll direct the back-up there. Keep the targets occupied until they arrive."

"Understood," Quinlan called, hurrying up the stairs.

"Be careful," Obi-wan said.

"You too, buir," Neyo called, broadcasting his worry.

Obi-wan hurried after Quinlan.

Xanatos and Dooku were waiting.

Obi-wan felt Quinlan ready to jump in, but he tugged on their bond to hold him back. They were supposed to keep the Sith busy, and the best distraction Obi-wan know of was letting Xanatos hear his own voice. Quinlan remembered Dooku being the same, and neither of them had met a bad guy who didn't enjoy monologuing. But how to get them started? Obi-wan was sure they'd want to fill the silence if the two Jedi kept quiet.

Sure enough: "This is not how I wanted us to meet, Grandpadawan."

"I can imagine," Obi-wan said dryly. "It's not the best start to familial relations: Holding a lightsaber to my throat and trying to kill my sons."

Dooku sighed. "I wish we had the time-"

"Wait," Xanatos interrupted. "Sons? Plural? You just have the one: Skywalker."

Quinlan laughed. "Your intelligence is out-of-date," He informed them, starting to circle; everyone followed his cue. "Obes adopted the entire clone army so the Republic can't have them. "His grin turned to a snarl. "Puts a hamper on your plan to turn this war into a trap for the Order."

Xanatos stumbled, shocked, then snarled back. "Fett," He spat.

Obi-wan sent a question down their bond.

"He may not have all the details," Quinlan confessed. "But enough to know letting them fight in this war is as dangerous as it is immoral. I'm sure he'll be happy to help me get the answers we need from you, seeing as Dooku isn't as complicit as you want us to believe." Dooku flinched and Obi-wan nearly stumbled in alarm. "He's under a mind trick like the one you had on Fett. Nasty piece of work, but sloppy. Fell apart as soon as I turned off the thing in his head."

Xanatos growled. "You've always had a big mouth, Vos."

Quinlan shrugged. "I think honesty is the best policy."

"You're a shadow," Xanatos snapped.

"I'm full of contradictions."

"Enough pleasantries," Dooku snapped, the Darkness around him undulating strangely. "They're attempting to distract us until reinforcements can arrive."

"Interesting theory," Obi-wan teased. "Care to discuss?"

Xanatos surged forward, aiming for Quinlan’s heart.

"I guess not," Quinlan grunted, deflecting the strike.

Dooku followed suit, striking at Obi-wan's arm. He blocked, shifting into Soresu to counter the Count's Makeshi. Not a perfect match, but it would do. They fought.

The room echoed with the harsh hiss and crackle of Lightsaber against Lightsaber. Red slashed out, only to crash against blue and green. Thrust, parry, lunge, slash. It was terrifying dance most would struggle to follow. The Force moved them in ways and at speeds the human body wasn't made for.

Xanatos was relentless, striking at Quinlan like he'd personally insulted him; he probably had. His strikes were powerful and fast, keeping Quinlan on the defense. But instead of trying to hit the Jedi, he seemed intent on the lightsaber he wielded: Xanatos wanted Qui-gon's crystal silenced. His rage gave Quinlan openings. Openings that suited his mis-mashed, unpredictable style. He was shredding Xanatos' Outer robes. But neither was gaining ground.

Dooku was precise, swift, and cold. Only his years of Soresu kept Obi-wan from anything but glancing blows. He hoped his smaller movements and energy conservation would help him outlast the old master. But as they fought Dooku didn't tire. He wasn’t relying on the Force the same as Jedi his age. Was this the Darkside? Or more of Xanatos's tampering? He didn't have the thoughts to spare. Dooku as doing everything he could to find the flaws in Obi-wan's defenses. He found one.

"GAH!" Obi-wan shouted as Dooku's blade caught his neck.

He staggered back, clutching his throat. By some miracle he was alive, but that had been too close. His skin was scorched, layers burned away. Breathing hurt and it was difficult to shove the pain away. His focus was broken. Dooku advanced on him.

Obi-wan brought his saber up to protect himself, but Dooku was pushing him back toward the ship. Quinlan's fear for him was loud over their bond. Obi-wan tried to shut it out, it was distracting. And then the fear was drowned out, by pain.

Quinlan screamed. He fell, clutching the stump that used to be his lower leg. Obi-wan panicked. He reached for the Force, shoving Dooku away. Xanatos raised his blade to kill Quinlan. Obi-wan intercepted it.

"Always the protector, Obi-wan," Xanatos laughed, his smile demented and furious. "Always so quick to leap into danger for others. Leaving yourself open to attack."

The Force shouted! Obi-wan disengaged and rolled away. Dooku's saber only grazed him. He shot back to his feet, standing between Quinlan and the two Sith. Down to one leg he was no help. Obi-wan sensed Neyo and Padme were still stimmed by the collapsed door. He was on his own.

A bright presence blazed to life. They all whipped around the see a LAAT/i flying towards the hanger. It banked hard, side facing the hanger entrance. Cody and a dozen troopers leapt out. Obi-wan hit the ground, covering Quinlan as the troopers opened fire.

They forced the two Sith back as another gunship deliver troops. Yoda was with them. He wove his way to the front, coming to a halt beside Cody. Boom! A small explosion sent dust up the stairwell. Padme led the charge, surrounding the Sith. Cody called for a cease fire. The Sith were trapped.

"Over, it is," Yoda called. "Surrounded, you are."

"Surrender!" Cody ordered.

"Never," Xanatos growled, gearing up to attack the old master.

Dooku grabbed Xanatos's shoulder, holding him back. "Greetings, master Yoda," Dooku said calmly, as if he wasn't backed against the literal wall with more blasters pointed at him then he could hope to deflect.

"Count Dooku," Yoda replied. "Xanatos Du Crion. Long, has it been since I have seen you both. In different circumstances, I wish it was."

"These are the lengths to which the council has pushed us," Dooku countered coldly.

"Ordered Galidraan, the council did not," Yoda threw out, making Dooku freeze. "Will of another, that was. Your actions here, also the will of another. Lost, you have become, my padawan. Want you to come home, I do. You as well, Xanatos. Help, we offer."

"Ha!" Xanatos laughed, failing to cover for Dooku suddenly going pale with pain. "As if the Order really cares. You didn't even search for my body."

"You threw yourself in acid!" Obi-wan shouted where he was still crouched over Quinlan, a medic stabilizing his friend. "We didn't think anything would be left, let alone you survived."

"And yet, here I am," Xanatos chuckled. "You're not very good at killing darksiders, little brother."

Dooku twitched. A sharp, righteous anger broke through the darkness around him, bright as a star. The Force surged around him, a shock wave that struck everyone in the room. The lights flashed, troopers stumbled, Padme fell. Xanatos made him move.

He pulled something from his cloak and chucked it at Obi-wan and Quinlan.

"Granade!" Cody shouted.

The troops hit the deck. Yoda reached out and snatched it from the air. He flung it outside. It exploded harmlessly, no one injured. Meantime, Xanatos used the Force to sweep Neyo and Padme's troops out of the way. He grabbed Dooku and rushed the stairway. They were gone before anyone realized what happened.

"They're headed for the ship!" Padme called, scrambling to her feet.

"Anakin!" Obi-wan shouted.

"GO!" Quilan shouted, shoving him forward.

Obi-wan took off running, Cody right behind him with Yoda riding on his back. Xanatos had crumbled the entrance again. Obi-wan had none of that. He shoved it with the Force then body slammed what wouldn't move. He rolled to his feet, ignoring the bruises, and vaulted the boulder. Just in time to see the ship take off.

"Down that ship!" Cody shouted into his com.

"No! Don't!" Boba shouted, running up to them with Rex, Jesse, and Hardcase behind him. They were terrified.

"Skywalker is on board," Rex called, stricken. "He traded himself to protect us."

"Hold fire!" Cody told the pilots. "Friendly on board! Resilience! A ship carrying two enemies and a hostage is trying to leave the planet. Capture"

The words died in his throat. His mood soured with anger and sorrow. Yoda slipped from his back and went to Obi-wan, resting a hand on his great grandpadawan's leg. Everyone waited. Obi-wan's heart was pounding in his ears, lodged in his throat. He was shaking, waiting for news. Please. Please let his son be safe. Please!

"Buir," Cody breathed, voice professional but Force presence full of heartbreak. "The ship entered hyperspace in the upper atmosphere. They've escaped."

Chapter Text

Rex was not pleased.

Commander Neyo had left him, Jesse, and Hardcase to secure the ship with Padawan Skywalker and Boba. The brat had grumbled about being babied while Skywalker hustled him over to the ship. It was light duty, luxury, with finely upholstered seats, a private fresher, and stocked minibar. Probably the fanciest thing any clone had encountered, Boba included.

"What a waste of credits," Boba grumbled, poking around the fresher. "It doesn't even have armor."

"It's a short journey transport," Anakin informed him, heading for the main terminal. "Meat to carry passengers to larger ships or between neighboring planets in complete comfort. Their maximum range is usually just under a parsec, so hey probably have ship hidden nearby. See if you can find the coordinates in navigation."

Boba followed his instructions, which was weird. Rex had always heard how Boba tended to kick up a fuss when the older vode tried to give him orders. But then, Boba was technically the oldest, so he didn't like being told what to do by someone younger like most people Rex had observed; Skywalker was older than any of them. Still, Rex couldn't help being impressed with how easily he handled Prime's son.

"I think I've got something," Skywalker called, bent over the terminal. "Anyone got a data stick?"

Rex pulled one out and handed it over. Skywalker nodded his thanks and plugged it in. With a few keystrokes he was moving the files onto the chip. A loading bar popped onto the screen. Skywalker fell back in the chair with a sigh. Then he looked up at Rex with a curious look.

"So, Rex," He said, sitting up and looing intently at the captain. "I haven't had a chance to ask anyone. Did Obi-wan really adopt all of you?"

"Yes, sir," Hardcase piped up from the ramp where he was standing guard with Jesse. "He had Commander Cody sign the documents on our behalf and even said the Mandalorian adoption vow."

"How did he know that?" Boba asked, surprised.

"He spent a year protecting the duchess when he was young," Skywalker answered, peering at Boab's terminal; he was struggling to get past the security to the logs. "He's been fascinated with Mandalorian culture ever since. And he's a complete language nut. But," He said, turning to smile at Rex and the others. "That makes you my little brothers, I guess."

"It does?" Jesse asked, skeptical.

"Yup," Skywalker said cheerfully. "Da adopted me when I was 10. There's a word for the Mando'a, right? For siblings?"

"Ori'vod is older sibling," Boba explained, huffing at the screen. "And Vod'ika is younger sibling" He smirked at Rex. "I'm Ori'vod to all the clones."

"Ori'ika, more like," Rex chuckled.

Boba glared at him. "Your one of Alpha-17's, that shabuir."

"Language!" Skywalker snapped, flicking his ear.

Boba squawked and jerked away; Hardcase coughed to cover his laugh. "You don't even know what I said," The boy protested.

Before Skywalker could reply the terminal beeped: Download complete. He pulled out the chip. "All done," he declared with a smile. "All files pertaining to the Separatist army: droids specs, ship blueprints, weapons detail, numbers, factory locations, potential first strike targets, and profiles of all their organic officers. Bad security on Dooku's part." He held it out to Rex. "Mind looking after this for me, Vod'ika?"

"Yes," he said, keeping the awe out of his voice as he took the chip. "Ori'vod."

Skywalker's smile was bright and affectionate, making the cabin feel warm and safe. Rex had managed to keep it together when Obi-buir adopted them, but this. This stranger had so easily accepted them as his brothers, and he was happy about it. Rex wouldn't let anything happen to the chip. Or his new Ori'vod.

"Now," Anakin said, getting up to stand behind Boba. "Let's see about-"

He jolted, spinning around to face the ramp, his face pale and frightened. Jesse and Hardcase snapped to attention, blasters up and scanning for threats. Rex stowed the chip and pulled his blasters, putting himself between Anakin and the ramp.

"What's wrong?" Boba asked, scrambling to his feet.

"Da is hurt," Anakin said, voice strained. He jolted again. "Quinlan!"

"We need to go help them," Boba said.

"Wait, Rex called, Jesse jumping in the boy's way. "Our orders were to secure the ship. Reinforcements are on the way."

"They might not get here in time," Boba protested, almost whined. If Vos is hurt-"

"We're supposed to wait," Anakin insisted, but he sounded uncertain. "But Vos is down. I'm not sure..."

"Could you help them?" Rex asked.

"What?"

"If we went after them," Rex asked. "Would it make a difference? Could we help them?"

Anakin chewed his lip, thinking. After a moment he nodded. "Yes."

"Move out," Rex ordered, leading the way out of the ship. "Jesse take point. Boba, watch our-"

"Wait," Anakin said, grabbing his arm and stopping them. His eyes grew wide in panic. "They're coming back."

"Kenobi?" Boba asked.

The buzz of lightsabers answered. Red light washed the room and read and filled Rex with dread. He turned, training his pistols on the two Sith. Jesse, Hardcase, and Boba ere half a second behind him. Du Crion raised his blade to attack.

"No!" Anakin shouted, pushing past the vode to shield them. "Don't hurt them," He begged Dooku.

"You've compromised our ship," Du Crion huffed, glaring at Boba.

"We haven't had a chance to do anything," Anakin lied. "There's no reason-"

"You're the enemy," Du Crion shot back. "Killing you now means we don't have to do it later. Sorry, Nephew, but you’re not worth anything more than these clones."

Anakin straightened his back, angry. "They're worth more than a traitor like you," He snapped. He turned to Dooku. "And I'm worth something to you. Fett brought Obi-wan and there's a long list of high priority slaves to lure Padme, but the only way to make me play along was to use my mother. You know the prophecy. You want to control it."

Rex was lost, but the Sith seemed to understand. Du Crion glared, furious with the young Jedi. Dooku was thinking.

"What are you saying, young one?" He asked.

"Take me hostage."

"NO!" Rex and Boba protested, pushing forward.

Anakin threw his hand back, holding them back with the Force. "With me on board, no one will dare fire on your ship. Let them go and I'll come without a fight."

"Done," Dooku said, deactivating his saber.

"No, you can't," Boba said, stricken.

Anakin gave him a sad smile. "Look after my mom for me, ok?" He asked the boy. Boba nodded, teary eyed.

Rex stowed his pistols with, furious he couldn't do anything. As he passed him Anakin held out his hand. Rex clasped his wrist, a Mandalorian handshake. Anakin seemed to understand. He smiled warmly.

"Take care, Vod'ika," He whispered. Locking eyes with the captain he tapped a message against Rex's gauntlet: Deliver chip, stay safe.

Rex tapped back: You too.

"I'll see you again, Ori'vod," He promised; he would make it happen.

Letting go, he stepped away. Hardcase and Jesse stepped up behind him, almost touching. He placed a hand on Boba's shoulder to keep them both in place as they watch the Jedi...their jedi get hustled into the ship. He threw them one last comforting smile before the ramp closed. The ship took off. Rex felt sick.

Boba clung to Padme's side the entire ride to the Vode. She'd taken one look at the scene and taken custody of him, Rex, Jesse, and Hardcase. She'd moved them onto the ship and kept them close. Her grip on Jesse's arm was probably the only thing keeping him from flying apart.

Boba had messed up. He was supposed to be a warrior, a great fighter like his buir. Buir would have torn those two apart with his bare hands. But Boba had hidden behind a Jeti'ika and done nothing. He was the worst.

Before the ship even landed his buir was there and Boba threw himself into his arms. He sobbed against his buir's armor, feeling like his heart was trying to escape him. Skywalker had been with him the whole mission, kept his head when Boba panicked, and saved his life. And Boba had done nothing to help him.

"Boba?" Buir asked, rubbing circles into Boba's back.

"I didn't do anything to help him," Boba choked out. "I'm the worst."

"You were following orders," he heard a vode say behind him; he turned to find Neyo standing there. "All of you were." He turned to the three troopers who were still standing with them.

Stiffly, Rex pulled the chip from his belt and handed it to Neyo. "Ori'vod was able to download the complete specs of the Sepratist army from Dooku's files."

"Ori'vod?" Padme asked.

Rex nodded, swallowing. "He's Obi'buir's son," he told, voice growing tight. "That makes him our Ori'vod. Our big brother."

Neyo squeezed his shoulder. "We'll get him back."

Rex nodded, but with his helmet on Boba couldn't tell if he believed it. Boba didn't. He held tight to his Buir.

"Senator Amidala," Medic Kix called, trotting up to them. "You need to head to medical for your back. Everyone should go as well for checkup."

Boba shook his head, wiping away his tears. "Have to find Skywalker's buir," he said forcefully. "I promised him I'd look after her."

"Their ship is coming now," one of the Nulls said as he approached; Mereel. "They're going to head straight for medical. Senator, the general wants you at command as soon as the Medics release you. A Master Tholme intercepted the ship carrying the majority of the Separatist council and Master Windu wants you to witness their formal arrest on behalf of the Senate. Commander Fox will join you to oversee their imprisonment."

"Of course," Padme replied, then turned soft eyes on Boba and the others. "Will you all be okay?"

"I've got them," buir promised.

Padme nodded again and allowed Kix to lead her to the medical tent.

"Where is Skywalker's ship going to land?" Buir asked Mereel.

The vode looked like he was going to protest but gave up. He pointed out past where the Gunships were landing. They could see Kenobi and Cody heading that way. Buir put Boba down and started that way; all four of them followed.

They caught up with Cody and Kenobi at the landing site, several SLC and Vode medics also waiting. Boba remembered the slaves had been clean, but in rough shape, and that girl Manu had a hurt ankle. Hopefully C-3PO had been right and they were all de-chipped; having the explosives removed would make them feel much safer.

"Kenobi," Buir greeted. “How’s Vos?”

“Stable,” Cody answered. “Knight Secura, his padawan, is with him along with Bly.”

"Why aren't you in medical?" Buir asked, pointing to the scorched flesh on Kenobi's neck.

"I have to be the one to tell Shmi," he said quietly, not looking away from the sky. "I'm Anakin's master, and his father. His safety was my responsibility."

"No, sir," Rex countered. "It was mine. I was in charge-"

"I shouldn't have hesitated to-" Hardcase fired back.

"I could have-" Boba called.

"ENOUGH!" Buir called, silencing them. They all stared at him, a little frightened; that tone had always meant a thrashing on Kamino. "None of you are at fault. I've heard your report, Captain, and Skywalker took the best action possible. What you taught him to do, no doubt, Kenobi. He used his position to save lives, which allowed you to deliver vital intel."

"What intel?" Cody asked.

"Ori'vod was able to download all Dooku's files on the Sepratist army: their numbers, specs, factory locations, and targets," Hardcase explained. "He gave it to Rex who delivered it to Commander Neyo when we landed."

"That data will help the Republic contain the conflict and save lives," Buir told them. "You did exactly what you were supposed to."

Boba didn't argue, but he wanted to. He knew Rex and the others did too. Boba didn't give a kriff about the Republic or this war. Maybe the others did, but that didn't make watching Anakin get on that ship with Du Crion and Dooku any better. It would haunt them all for the rest of their lives.

"Ori'vod?" Cody asked.

Kenobi chuckled softly. "Anakin always wanted more siblings," he said. "He wanted to adopt every lost youngling we came across. He loves working in the crèche and teaching initiates. If he wasn't so driven to help people, I think he'd be perfectly content as a father or teacher." He was starting to cry.

Cody touched his shoulder, but before he could offer any comfort the ship appeared. Kenobi had just enough time to get his tears under control and appearance in order before the ramp was lowering. The Medics moved into the ship. It took a moment for them to start coaxing the slaves out, but once they saw Boba and Kenobi in his Jedi robes they relaxed and allowed themselves to be taken to the medical tent.

"Master Kenobi," C-3PO chirped happily. "It is a relief to see you."

"Hello again, C-3PO," Kenobi chuckled. "R2-D2." The Astromec beeped happily.

"Hi," Boba said.

"Greetings, Master Fett," C-3PO said, oblivious to Shmi walking down the ramp behind him; she was helping guide a gurney carrying Manu with an SLC medic. "It is good to see you well. And it appears you found your parent."

"Yeah," he agreed, looking up at buir. "And my brothers." He looked at Rex, Cody, Jesse, and Hardcase.

"How wonderful."

"Lady Skywalker," Kenobi greeted, bowing to her. "May we have a moment?"

She spoke briefly to the Medic, gave Manu's hand a squeeze, and came over. Cody directed the two droids to the medical tent where they could wait for Padme. Kenobi reached out and Shmi took his hands, giving him a warm smile.

"You're Obi-wan Kenobi," she guessed. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Indeed," he said, smiling back, but not as bright. "We've both waited a long time to meet." His smile slipped. "I just wish it was under better circumstances."

"Yes," Shmi sighed, looking out at the troops, ships, and smoking battlefield. "War is not the best place for an introduction."

Kenobi nodded in agreement. "But it's not just that," He took a deep breath to steady himself, but she read his shift in mood first. She squeezed his hand, face going taught with worry.

"What's wrong?" She asked. "Is Ani hurt? Where is he?"

The look on Kenobi's face made Boba want to cry again.

"I'm sorry, ma'am," Cody said, speaking when Kenobi could not find the words. "Your son was captured by two Sith."

"What?" She hissed, horrified.

"He traded himself to save my brothers and I," Rex explained, gesturing to Jesse, Hardcase, and Boba.

"I'm sure they won't kill him," Kenobi said quickly. "He's too valuable to them."

"He said Dooku brought you here to get him," Boba told her.

"Boba!" Buir snapped.

"What?" Boba asked, but then he saw the horrified look on her face. "No. No, I didn't mean-"

"What Boba is trying to saw," Rex interrupted. "Is that Dooku went to extreme lengths to bring Anakin here. If they wanted him dead, there are easier ways to kill someone, and they wouldn't have negotiated with him at all. They want him alive, which gives us a chance to save him."

"And we will," Kenobi assured her. "I made a promise to keep him safe both when I adopted him and when I became his master."

"We won't rest until he's home," Rex assured her, Jesse and Hardcase standing to attention behind him.

"We'll help too," Boba said, getting a nod from his dad. "I promised him I'd look out for you."

She looked at all of them. A weak smile appeared on her face, and she squeezed Kenobi's hands again. He squeezed back.

"Thank you. All of you.”

Chapter Text

Kamino was much as Obi-wan had described, to Shaak's dismay. The very air reeked of despair and tragedy, both ancient and recent. She could feel a thriving culture that had been nearly destroyed, replaced by something cold and clinical that had dispensed misery on another in their care. It was like one of those old tales of caution that hadn’t yet reached its end. Shaak would do all in her power to see it was a happy end, not a tragedy.

Baar’ur Mij Gilamar, acting leader of the trainers, had already locked down Prime Minister Lama Su and the kaminoan scientists before they arrived. Apparently, Lieutenant Jiang had found a scientist attempting to destroy files. Shaak wasn’t fond of the idea of incarcerating a people in their own home like an invader, but given the nature of the remaining files she couldn’t argue: It had detailed the “reconditioning” of a clone with a “disruptive” personality; they had been the equivalent of 8, the class clown.

The Jedi dispersed, joining teams of Vode to secure the city and begin investigating. Healer Bant Erin had gone with Baar’ur Gilamar to the medical wing. Knight Feemor went with Sergeant A’den to take over the security room. Shaak and Lieutenant Jiang would start their investigation in Lama su’s office.

Two vode were working on the terminals. Three others were tearing through secret panels while a fourth searched for more. The first Kaminoan Shaak has seen was overseeing them, radiating pride, fondness, and a touch of sorrow.

“Lai Wo,” Jiang called, grabbing her attention. “This is jedi Master Shaak Ti. Master Ti, administrator Lai Wo. She represents the reformist movement amongst the longne- I mean Kaminoans.” He grew bashful at the slip.

Lai Wo chuckled good naturedly. “A pleasure, Master jedi. I look forward to working with you to ensure the welfare of the vode.”

“Indeed, administrator,” Shaak said with a bow. “I must admit, Baar’ur Gilamar made it sound as if our actions were in opposition to your people. I am glad to see that is not the case.”

Lai wo nodded, melancholy slipping into her signature. “Many of us had begun to question our way of life even before this project began. The evidence we are discovering now indicates it was well past time for change. The old way has had a terrible influence on our leaders.”

“Just before you arrived, we found a secret communication room bio-locked to prime Minister Lama Su,” Jiang reported. “The log shows frequent communication with Serrano, Geonosis, and various worlds in hutt space.”

“Contact with Serrano and Geonosis indicates Jango Fett’s actions were not unexpected,” Shaak said, turning the information over in her mind. “But what business would he have with the hutts?”

A flare of rage and sorrow burned in Jiang and Lai Wo.

“We found payments from the Hutts,” Jiang said, voice steady while his signature raged. “He used a code for the product, but some of us recognized the timing and are double checking. But so far we believe that Lama Su was…that he was selling the vode that didn’t meet standard.”

Shaak dug her nails into her hands to keep herself from reacting. Selling slaves. Taking the children he’d created and giving them over to a life of subjugation, misery, and pain for money. Shaak felt the unjedi-like urge to find Lama Su and snap his neck with her bare hands. And then finding the rotten slugs that bought the children and wringing their location from them before dropping them in the nearest sarlacc pit to be slowly digested for a thousand years. Probably kill the bastards that bought the vode for good measure. But a lone Jedi could not accomplish such a task; Master Fay had tried, more than once. Shaak would have to meditate and release those feeling. Later.

“Did no one notice this happening?” She asked Lai Wo, her voice and face betraying nothing of her inner fury.

Lai Wo shook her head, flooded with regret and sorrow. “Questions arose when the project heads began removing vode with cosmetic deviations” She reported. “But we did not consider this was why. I am not sure if I am relieved at the thought the vode may still be alive or horrified at what they must be suffering. Is there any way to track them?”

“The hutts keep meticulous records,” Shaak told them honestly. “But we have never been able to break their codes. There are Jedi who are part of the freedom trail we can ask to keep an eye out, but the Order has long since lost the ability to counter the slave trade. I am sorry.” The whole Order was sorry, but they’d lost control of what parts of the galaxy they could help before she was born.

Jiang clenched his fists, rage burning like a wildfire. He was in agony over his lost brothers. Not dead but gone in a way that was so much worse. Even if they could break the Hutt code and Lama Su had kept a complete record, some of them would have already died of mistreatment. Those that survived would be damaged and traumatized, in need of years of help before they could hope to recover.

“Perhaps,” Lai Wu said, a spark of hope in her signature. “The Vode can change that.”

Jiang snapped to attention, hope calming his fury. Maybe they could. While money would always be a problem, as the Senate slashed their budget wherever possible, manpower was what the Order truly lacked. There just weren’t enough Jedi to take all the Senate missions AND help the galaxy like they used to. Shaak didn’t know the abilities and temperament of the Vode yet, but they seemed driven and effective.

“Perhaps,” she said simply.

That one word sent a tidal wave of hope around the room. The vode that had been quietly listening now glowed with hope. They burned bright in the Force, not with power, but determination and love for each other. It was breath taking. With vigor they returned to their tasks.

“For now,” She said, turning to room. “Let us see what else we can find.” She had no doubt there was more damning evidence to find, and she would use every scrap to punish anyone who dared hurt such vibrant souls.

Bant wanted to cry. There were so many children, so many little boys looking at her with wonder. Like she was the most magical thing they’d ever seen. Mij told her she was the first outsider they’d ever seen, and the first non-human beside the Kaminoans. Obi-wan had only dealt with the adult clo—vode. She had to make sure to use that word. It was what they chose, and it mattered. Proven every time one of the children lit up at her use of the word.

Mij had tried to take her to his medical wing but were derailed by a cadet running up to them saying there was a problem. The problem being two cadets fighting. They looked to be maybe 8 but Bant knew that wasn’t the case. They were also bleeding. Bant marched over and snatched up the closer boy. He gasped and kicked out, almost hitting her. He turned, a snarl on his little face, until he saw her. He went stiff with shock, the other children staring at her too.

“Oi,” Came an adult voice.

Bant turned to see a Mandalorian marching toward her. another leaning against the wall where they’d clearly been watching. And doing nothing. Obi-wan had warned that not all the trainers supported him adopting the vode, but this was blatant neglect.

“What do you think you’re doing?” The Mandalorian demanded, towering over Bant.

“Ending a fight,” Bant said, unbothered; or at least trying to appear unbothered, he was very big. “As you should have done before it got this far.”

“We let them fight it out around here,” The Mandalorian snarled. “Get it out of their system.”

“And keep you entertained,” Gilamar growled, simmering with hate for the other Mandalorian.

Bant finally put the boy in her arms down and pushed him behind her. The Force was shouting that this man was a threat. She wouldn’t let him anywhere near the vode.

“That may have been the way things were done before,” Bant said coolly. “But not anymore. These children are under the care of the Jedi and Clan Kenobi. We do not let children beat each other to a pulp to solve their differences.”

“That Jedi really did adopt us?” The other boy in the fight asked, shocked. Gilamar was trying to examine his injuries.

“Told you,” The boy clinging to Bant fired back.

“Adopting flesh droids is absurd,” the Mandalorian against the wall drawled. “They’re product, not people.”

Jedi didn’t hate but Bant felt herself getting close. “Leave,” She growled.

She had never been so angry in her entire life. These two had helped raise and train these boys, and they didn’t seem them as any different from a droid. It was disgusting and Bant would not allow it.

The Mandalorian in front of her laughed. “You going to make me, Jetii?”

Bant moved without thought. She pulled her lightsaber from her belt. Flipping it in her hand, she didn’t ignite it. Instead, she slid the emitter under the Mandalorian’s chin and pressed into his throat. She moved too fast for anyone to react. The Mandalorian froze in shock.

“You will leave,” Bant said forcefully.

The Mandalorian swallowed, terrified. After a hesitant moment, he nodded. Bent took the saber from his neck. He stumbled back, hand going to his throat, then turned and left, his companion following him out. Once out of sight Bant reclipped her lightsaber.

“Hey, Fordo,” Gilamar said into his com, glowing with delight. “Priest and Reau are leaving. Make sure they do.”

“You scared Trainer Priest,” The boy at her side said, his good eye shining with awe. “Not even Prime could scare him.”

It finally hit Bant what she’d done. She’d lost her temper and threatened someone. With her lightsaber. WHAT IN THE FORCE!? Was she suddenly Quinlan now? She was a healer, not a thug.

“If you ever meet a Master Kit Fisto,” She said to Gilamar and the children, blushing violent purple. “Please don’t tell him about that. He’d be so disappointed in me.”

Gilamar laughed, loud and delighted. “Alright, Erin,” He chuckled. “We won’t tell your buir.”

Bant probably should have corrected him, but she was too embarrassed. She’d completely lost her head. Quilan and Garen would never let her hear the end of it. She was the rational, safe, sensible member of their crèche clan. She wasn’t supposed to go around threatening Mandalorians with her Saber. She was so embarrassed.

Gilamar clapped, making her and the boys jump. “Alright, everyone back to class,” He ordered. “Except you two.” He pointed to the ones who’d been fighting. “Kit, Hawk. You’ll—”

“Baar’ur Gilamar,” a Vode interrupted. “Knight Erin?”

“Yes?” Gilamar asked. “What is it?”

“Knight Feemor and Sargent A’den have gotten into the…” He blushed, embarrassed at the phrase. “Into the bad room.”

“What?” Gilamar said, shocked. “It was sealed. Knight Erin, we have to go immediately.”

“What’s the bad room?” She asked, confused.

“It’s where they take the brothers they don’t want to keep,” the boy who’d gotten them said sadly. “We never see them again once they go in.”

Bant did not like the sound of that. She knelt down to him. “What’s your name, young one?”

“CT-6922,” He said, snapping to attention.

“Dogma,” Gilamar said. “We call him Dogma because he follows the rule, religiously.”

“Dogma,” She said, shock and wonder blooming in him from hearing his name. “Would you please take Kit and Hawk to the medical wing to get patched up?”

He snapped off a salute, chest puffed out in pride. “Yes, ma’am,” he said, then spun smartly to the two injured boys. “Let’s go.”

After a nod from Gilamar, the boys followed Dogma out. Once they were gone Bant turned to the vode: “Lead the way.”

Feemor didn’t know what he was doing in the security room. The vode clearly had everything in hand, but it seemed to make them feel better when he checked their work and assured them it was good. It took him a while to realize they were all still technically cadets and had never been trusted with any sort of responsibility. He suddenly understood why Obi-wan had impulsively adopted them all.

He was helping a slicer trying to encode their new protocols when the Force pinged him. He followed it over to a wall, just under a vent near the ceiling. Hushed voices and thumps echoed down it, drawing everyone’s attention. Suddenly the vent dropped open and two little forms tumbled out. Feemor caught them, arms now full of two wide eyed cadets; age 6?

“Wow!” One of them said, buzzing with excitement. “You’re a Jedi.”

Feemor chuckled. “Yes, I am,” he said. “I’m Knight Feemor. Who are you two?”

“Hi. I’m Fives,” he said happily, then gestured to his brother. “That’s Echo. He repeats whatever the trainers say.”

“Because you don’t listen,” Echo mumbled.

Feemor was charmed. “What were you doing in the vents?” He asked as he put them down.

“We were looking for a way into the bad room,” Fives reported, reflexively grabbing his brother’s hand.

“Bad room?”

“The room they take the vode to for decommissioning,” Sargent A’den answered, coming to stand at Feemor’s side. “We haven’t been able to open it. But I distinctly Gilamar saying the cadets, especially Domino Squad,” He gave the two boys a pointed look. “weren’t to interfere.”

“I didn’t hear that,” Fives lied, attempting to smile innocently; it came off impish, but charming.

“Yes, you did,” Echo protested, scowling at his brother. “I told-“

“Shut up, Echo,” Fives grumped, elbowing him.

“Did you find a way into the room?” Feemor asked, the Force telling him this was important.

“Yup,” Fives said, proudly. “The others are in there now.”

“But they can’t get out,” Echo said, worried. “782 sent us to get help.”

“The doors are sealed,” A’den reported. “Taun We, one of the head scientists, locked it before we could arrest her. Only the Kaminoans go in there, so we don’t know what to expect. Kal’buir has wanted in there since the day Prime changed; he thinks whatever changed his personality is there. But with everything else we haven’t had the chance to address it.”

“I guess we will now,” Feemor said, feeling the Force pull him that way. “Lead the way, Sergeant, let’s get those boys out of there.”

The “Bad Room” was on the bottom level of the facility, not far from the lift, as it seemed to take up most of the floor. Fear and sorrow saturated the entire city, but this place was the worst of it, so thick he knew the Vode were feeling it by the way they tensed up. Amid that darkness were three small, star bright lights scared and regretful: the rest of Domino.

The boys were huddled by the door, waiting for rescue. One of the slicers hurried over to start working the lock, but the panel was secured to the wall. Feemor reached out in the Force and tried to gently coax it open. That wasn’t working so he tried manipulating the controls himself. It wasn’t his area of expertise, but after a few minutes the lock released and A’den and his men were able to pull it open.

As soon as it was open the boys shot out and tackled Echo and Fives. They were so relieved to be out of the room and with their brothers again. A’den ordered one of them to take the boys to medical to ensure they were alright. Fives and Echo were reluctant to go until Feemor promised to visit them when they were finished here.

The room was…not what he expected. It was a very large lab, with an open office near the door with desks, worktables, and terminal stations. There were a set of medical beds next to holo-camera that left a sticky, ugly feeling in his mind; not death or pain, but greediness from the ones who worked the camera and related equipment. Someone activated the lights, illuminating a large storage room filled with row after row after row of carbonite blocks. Each one containing a human man.

“What the kark?” One of the men squeaked.

“They’ve been putting the vode in Carbonite?” Feemor asked no one, standing in front of a block and feeling a suspicious lack of Force energy; but the read outs on the side said the man inside was alive.

“No,” A’den corrected, standing next to him. “These are adults. The longnecks take the vod’ika young, usually before the Domino’s age. And these men don’t look like us.”

Feemor looked closer. Most of the men kept their helmets on, but he’d seen enough of them to realize that the face structure was totally different. These were not clones of Jango Fett. But they all had the same fae, as far he could see, and it felt familiar. He knew the face, but from where? The harsh overhead lights distorted the features, so Feemor pulled out a flashlight. The warm light washed over the face, revealing the features better, and it clicked into place. His heart dropped.

“Call Master Ti,” He told A’den, feeling his blood run cold. “Call everyone. We have a problem.”

Chapter Text

"I'm sorry, but you've what?"

"Don' take that tone with me, Obi-wan Kenobi," His mother scolded over holo, a deeply exasperated Orin beside her. "You're not too old te put over me knee."

Obi-wan resisted the impulse to point out that he, in fact, was, but it was difficult. "I'm sorry, mother," he sighed. "I'm just trying to understand why you've sent nearly the entire Kenobi stellar navy half-way across the galaxy with father at the helm."

"In his day," his mother said, shaking her finger at him. "Yer da was one of the best bloody pilots in the-"

"Mum," Orin broke in. "Tha's not the point and ya know it. Honestly, Obi, it's my fault," He told his brother, scratching his neck in embarrassment. "I didn't think te close the door durin' the clan council meetin' and Fargin went off on how the galaxy was goin' ta see this as us finally makin' a move te build out empire," Orin rolled his eyes. "Apparently, a fair few folks remember we were the only ones who could hold off the Mandalorian crusades; took back two systems from them, he says."

"Five, actually," Obi-wan corrected, feeling Cody's shock beside him. "I checked the archives after the last time he brought it up."

"Dun' ever tell him that," Orin warned. "He'll be insufferable. Anyway, the others said we should get our defences ready, just in case, and mum and da got worried about yer flight here. I tried to talk'em out of is, but now I'm glad I didn'. You lot just started a bloody galactic war and dropped us into the thick of it."

"Are you suggesting we don' take the boys in?" Their mother thundered.

"Ah course not, mum," Orin defended, hands up in surrender. "Fargin wasn' even sayin' tha'." He turned to Cody, who was a twister of confused emotions. "What you lads have been through is evil and the whole system is set to protect ya. All the clans are findin' room and work, hundreds of families are offerin' to adopt the youngins, and there isn' a pair of knittin' needles not knittin'. We want ye here, where we can look after ye. But," he turned back to Obi-wan. "You need to realize what's goin' te happen: We're not just the backwater world the mad Jedi comes from, we're goin' te be a superpower all our own. We need te figure out what we want te happen next. The council wants a meetin' with you and some of yer lads as soon as ya arrive."

"They want us there?" Cody asked, bubbling with confusion.

"Need yer input, now don't we?" Orin said, puzzled by Cody's question.

Shook and wonder burst like a nova from him. The commanders had eventually come to grips with the fact Obi-wan and the other Jedi would listen to them on military matters, anything else was proving difficult. "They want our opinion?" Cody finally managed to choke out.

"Of course, love," mother said, giving him a loving smile. "The moment my son adopted ye, ya got the right to decide yer own future, and that means telling us what you want. Now, I can'na promise ya we'll always act on it, but we'll always hear ye out. Yer part of our family now, Cody."

Cody choked, overwhelmed and near tears. Obi-wan put an arm around his shoulders and let him breath through it.

"Tha-" He struggled to speak but was determined to express himself. "Thank you, ma'am."

"Granny, love," she corrected, soft and misty eyed. "I'm yer granny and I can'na wait to meet ye in person, me darlin'."

Cody shattered, hiding his face in Obi-wan's neck to cry. Obi-wan hugged him close and let him cry. He spotted his mother leaning into Orin, who held her tight to his side as she gave them a watery smile. Happy tears, he remembered her saying before.

Behind him the door opened.

"Cody?" Rex asked, alarmed.

He hurried over and pried him off Obi-wan, only for the Commander to latch onto him instead. Wolffe and Ponds came to their side, confused and scared. Mace, Yoda, and Plo came to stand by Obi-wan.

"He's alright," Obi-wan assured the vode[1], earning a distrustful glance from Wolffe. "Mother just overwhelmed him."

"Sweet lamb," She cooed.

"They want our opinion," Cody whispered to his brother. "They want us to decide our own future."

They others were shocked. Rex trembled, pulling Cody tight. Wolffe and Ponds stared at the Kenobis in wonder. The idea of anyone caring was still too new to them, but they were willing to believe. It gave Obi-wan hope for their future, that the Kaminoans hadn’t taken that spark. Given time they would blaze across the galaxy, and Obi-wan wanted to see that.

"Rex," Obi-wan said gently, drawing his attention. "Would you be so kind as to take Cody to his bunk?"

"No," Cody protested, throwing his arm out. "I-i need to-"

"Shh," Obi-wan whispered, catching hand and squeezing kindly. "You need to rest, dear one. Wolffe, Ponds, and I will brief you later."

He looked at the other two commanders, who nodded. He looked at Obi-wan, still hesitating. He could barely support himself, but the idea of leaving Obi-wan distressed him too much to consider it.

"There's going to be a lot to do once we reach Kamino," Obi-wan said, trying a different tactic. "Your Brothers and I will need you at your best."

Cody huffed and nodded, finally letting Rex take him away. Obi-wan turned back to the holo table to see his youngest sibling, Cahal, had appeared. He smiled at the young scientist, earning one in return, and watched her lead their emotional mother away. They were likely headed to find Kolarn and the twins to snuggle; Obi-wan released his envy into the Force, Kenobi snuggle piles were wonderful.

"You wished to see us, Chief Orin?" Mace asked once mother was gone.

"Aye, Master Windu," Orin nodded, serious. "The council looked into some intelligence reports we've been puzzlin' over for a while and decided we needed to share our findings in order to best protect the vode. Gen-fee of Clan Faire'uile[2]—ye remember him, Obi-wan?"

"He's a tad paranoid," Obi-wan explained for his fellow Jedi with a sense of foreboding; Ponds produced a pad and started taking notes. "His clan is on the smaller side, notorious gossips and conspiracy theorists who tend toward professions that allow them to travel the galaxy. Those that stay in the system brew the best tea and Stew Whiskey and trounce us at Dance in the games." The last two facts probably weren't relevant, but he didn't want to give a bad impression of his father's birth clan.

"Aye," Orin agreed. "Gen-fee's been goin' on about somthin' odd happin' for the last decade. We didn' take him seriously, until we heard about the vode."

"You think they are related?" Plo asked.

Orin grimaced. "I think an army bein' built for the Republic at the same time Senate neglect has reached such heights that one of the usual outer rim alliances grows te be a threat to it can'na be anything else. As you lot know, the outer rim systems have always got'en the short end of the stick, in regards to Senate attention. However, according te Gen-Fee, it's been seemin' a little less random and a bit more targeted in the last ten years; same time as they started makin' the Vode, according to their records. And, here's the thing, the neglect follows a pattern."

"A pattern?" Yoda asked.

"It started with the Senate pullin' fundin', forcin’ yer services cores to reduce, of remove, their presence from a system," Orin explained, not trying to shame them, but all four Jedi hated when this happened. "Once the last Jedi have left, the government aide thins out along with Core-ward trade. The holo net buoys, as they do, but they don'na get repaired and communication gets spotty. The local leader can'na reach their senator, or the senator is fobbed off when they ask the relevant committees for assistance. Their economy flounders and the gangs roll in." Orin sighed, the others sharing his sadness. "Now, we all know these things happen all the time. Just bad luck it happens all at once, aye? Thing is, it's happenin' faster, and more of'en. A healthy system gettin' stalked by the gangs usually takes around eight years, and one fails every four. But the Twenty-seven we've tracked in the last ten years ne'er took more than two years. And every one of 'em was snatched up by the Count and his Separatists."

"All of them?" Ponds burst, nearly dropping his styles in alarm.

"Aye," Orin nodded. "And there have been dozens who joined before it got that bad, or turned it around like we did."

"What?" Obi-wan barked, stricken. "They targeted Stewjon?"

Orin waved him. "The Trade federation tried to give us the run around," Orin said, grinning like a tooka who got the cream. "But senator McArd[3] put 'em in their place. Yer shenanigans and our allies make sure the Senate can'na forget us, an’ the gangs aren't daft enough to try anything."

Obi-wan let out a small sigh of relief.

"This is all alarming," Mace said, frowning deeply. "The idea that members of the Senate are purposely abandoning planets to strengthen the Confederacy is deeply concerning. Given that we had no idea the Sith persisted I don't doubt something like this could happen. It's clear we have not been as vigilant as we should be--" Yoda sighed deeply, distressed at this failing "--But if we wish to take action we have to have proof."

"Importunely, we don' have it," Orin admitted with an agitated sigh. "There's no denyin' the systems have struggled and the Republic failed te help, but 'til now we had no reason te suspect foul play. We'll be askin' Senator McArd to poke about, and Bail Organa if you'll allow; I've known him since me school days, I trust him."

"Senator Amidala will also want to help," Obi-wan added. "She's been vehemently opposed to war from the start and, given her history with the Trade Federation and SLC, she is the last person to involved in such corruption."

"Agree, I do," Yoda said with conviction. "Dedicated to peace and justice, both senators are."

"We'll have to keep the circle tight," Plo warned. "All three Senators have suffered assassination attempts recently for opposing the Trade Federation and the war, our prey won't hesitate to try again."

"Could the Jedi protect them?" Ponds asked.

"If the Senators request it," Mace admitted, sighing. "But depending on who is in the Jedi Regulation Office at the time we may have to explain the threat, risking a leak."

"Jedi Regulation Office?" Ponds asked. "Like government oversight?"

"It's a bit more complicated and, frankly, invasive then that," Obi-wan huffed; his history with the office was decidedly negative, especially the Melida/Daan affair.

"What about the Vode?" Wolffe asked, taking them by surprise.

"What do you mean, Commander?" Plo asked, curious.

"Commander Fox and his battalion were trained to serve as enhanced security for Coruscant and the Senate," He explained. "They are familiar with all standing security measures, and he has five squads with him escorting the prisoners with Senator Amidala to Coruscant."

“Convenient," Orin observed. "But is it legal?"

"Senatorial security squads are usually pulled from the system's military or hired from private security companies if needed," Ponds informed them. "Given our adoption and military training, we should only need the Stewjoni ruling body to approve the appointments to Senator McArd's detail. And if Stewjon has any private security companies they can employ the vode so Senators Amidala and Organa can hire them."

"Aunt Patty," Orin and Obi-wan said together, starling the others.

"She's part of the board of directors of Ceann Dearg[4] Security Forces," Obi-wan informed them.

"Aye," Orin chuckled. "And she was just complainin' to mum about recruitment numbers bein' low this year. If we fast track the lads' adoption and employment, we might get them in the system before they land."

"That takes care of their protection," Mace agreed, satisfied. "And allow the vode to take part in the investigation. If this war has been planned by someone in the Republic your brothers might be able to spot the signs more readily than anyone else."

"We'll inform Commander Fox at our next check in," Ponds said, jotting it down.

"I'll have the flimsi work sorted," Orin put in. "As well as have out network see what other information they can scare up. A conspiracy this large can'na be limited te the core."

"Thank you, Chief Kenobi," Mace said with a deep bow the other councilors copied. "We appreciate-"

The com screen lit up, indicating an incoming call. Wolffe stepped forward, Plo just behind him. A deep sense of unease filled the Force.

"Urgent communication," Wolffe informed them. "From Kamino."

"It had Master Ti's emergency code," Plo reported.

"We need to take this, Orin," Obi-wan told his brother.

"Ah course," Orin nodded. "Let us know when yer on yer way. Mar Sin leat[5]."

"Mar sin leibh an'drasta[6]," Obi-wan replied before switching the call. Master Ti with Bant and one of Skirata's Nulls flanking her. They all looked grim.

"Greetings, Master Ti," Yoda called. "Knight healer Eerin, Sargent. Prompted your call, what has?"

The two jedi bowed and the Vode saluted. Shaak answered, her words causing Obi-wan's hackles to rise: "We've found something...complicated."

It was raining when they returned to Kamino. Cody said that's all it ever did, any other terrain training had been conducted in the neighboring system, and only CCs, Alphas, and Nulls took those courses. Ponds had attempted to lighten the mood with the story of how he got his name on one such training mission on the rise down, but it didn't succeed. No one could forget the fury in Sargeant A'den's shoulders or sorrow in Shaak's eyes. But it was the tremble in Bant's hands that plagued Obi-wan.

Not a lot could shake his dearest friend, but whatever Feemor had found had done it. Obi-wan hadn't seen her so distressed since they were children. It was even more worrying that, upon hearing Quinlan's condition, she didn't request to return to Coruscant with him; a lifetime of friendship meant she was one of the few healers who could handle his powers and temperament. Whatever was in that room was more important then her mandate as his primary healer. The ship couldn't fly fast enough.

Mace and Obi-wan took the lead inside, Yoda, Cody, the Fetts, Skirata, Commander Ponds, and Master Tholme right behind them. Master Ti and lieutenant Jiang met them just inside. After rapid greetings and introductions, they started to lead them inside.

"Ti," Tholme called as they walked. "You asked for me?"

"Yes," She agreed, mood dark. "It's not related to what we found in the...room, but it is time sensitive. We found evidence that former Prime Minister Lama Su was conducting a side business with the Hutts that we hope you're Shadows can correct."

"That sounds bad," Skirata observed.

"We'll brief you later, Kal'buir," Jiang said, boiling with anger and sorrow. "But the longer we wait to start moving the more we could lose. Master Tholme?"

"Lead the way."

"Go with them, Boba," Fett ordered his son, pushing him towards Jiang. "Our contacts in Jabba's court could help."

"Yes, Buir,"[7] He said, determined and proud to be given a mission.

The trio broke off just as they reached the lift. Master Ti hit the controls and they were headed down, the Force thick with worry.

"Mind telling us what we're walking into?" Skirata asked, tense.

"I'm afraid it is better seen then told," Shaak said cryptically. "But you need not worry," she told the vode, who were growing anxious. "It is not related to your brothers taken there. In truth, it does not seem any of them have been brought there for nearly a year."

"Then where have they gone?" Asked Cody, vacillating between relieved and frightened. Obi-wan placed a hand on his shoulder for comfort.

"That is what Master Tholme will be working on," she told them.

"What does that mean?" Ponds demanded, Mace allowing him to lean on him for support. "What aren't you telling us?"

"Kamino is proving to have many secrets," Shaak told them gravely. "We must spend our energies wisely to uncover them. Master Tholme and your brothers will tend to their task while we handle ours."

"It sounds like you're keeping secrets," Skirata said, angry. "Is that how things are going to go from here? You keep secrets from the vode? Choose what they get to know?"

Shaak turned a blank look on him. "It was your sons who choose to compartmentalize this information," She informed him, to his shook. "They believed it would distract you, and I do not disagree. There are far too many things we have yet to uncover or fully understand and a great deal we must investigate. In the next few days we will have a formal meeting to exchange all information."

That seemed to mollify him, and just in time. The lift opened to Sergeant A'den and Feemor waiting for them. They nodded in greeting and led the group past the vode standing guard. The room was dismal, both in appearance and in the Force. Beyond the obvious lab the vode had brought several gurneys to set up a medical action-station. On the beds were five men that were definitely not vode. They were light skinned, with dark hair and lean builds, identical as far as Obi-wan could tell from the back. Gilamar and several vode medics were examining the men. Behind them were rows upon rows of more men in carbonite.

One of the men turned. Obi-wan couldn't breathe.

"Dooku?" Yoda croaked, shocked and broken.

The men all stood and snapped to attention. they were all younger versions of the Count, in their early or mid 20s. In they Force they burned with power, but not quite his strength. Still more than enough to be Jedi, but their minds were the ridged certainty and strategic calculation of soldiers. Not so different from the vode. More clone soldiers.

One of them moved forward, falling into parade rest in front of them, despite the medic's protest. "FC-001 at your service, sirs."

"This is Commander Anak," Feemor introduced. "Leader of the Force Clones. As you can see, their templet was Count Dooku. Commander, these are Masters Yoda, Windu, and Kenobi."

"Force Clones?" Mace asked, going pale.

"Yes, sir," Commander Anak said. "We were the test batch for a possible Force Sensitive army. However, the Kaminoans were unable to stabilize the process, resulting in a 53% mutation rate."

Cody winced.

"The directors were frustrated by the 6% in the Vode," Skirata informed the group, a lot of anger attached to that fact. "They'd flush entire batches that spiked the number. How did you all survive?"

"Count Dooku insisted that our Force abilities were strong enough that cosmetic deviation was not an issue," Anak answered. "He convinced his master-"

"His master?" Yoda interrupted. "The Master, Dooku is not?"

"No, sir," Anak confirmed. "One of my men overheard the Count congratulating his master on his new position and disposing of his old master. The count's master then ordered him to seek a new template. Once he departed our secondary trainer, Xanatos Du Crion, informed us we failed and were put in storage. The count had not been notified."

"That little shit was always heartless," Feemor growled, furious.

"Fail, how did you?" Yoda asked gently.

"We did not fall the Dark Side."

Obi-wan hadn't even realized. The room was soaked in darkness, but not these men, they were light. Not perfect, not pure, but as light as any Senior padawan or knight Obi-wan had known. Lighter then him at times.

"How is that possible?" Mace asked, skeptical. "Surely Xanatos was training you to be Sith."

Anak hesitated. One of his brothers stepped forward, with bright blue eyes and resting sour expression.

"FC-004, Sergeant Sour, sirs," he said, saluting. "Permission to speak?"

"Granted," Obi-wan said, nearly stumbling over the needed command; the others were deeply uncomfortable being treated like a superior officer.

"Count Dooku undermined Du Crion," Sour reported. "He established late-night meditations, personally tended ours wounds, and taught us the Jedi code and practices to combat Du Crion's methods. When Du Crion was replaced as primary trainer the Count convinced the new trainer to focus on our physical training and later, when the trainer became intimate with one of our men, to join us in-"

"Hold," Anak snapped, nervous.

"He said to trust Master Yoda," Sour replied.

"He did?" Yoda asked, surprised.

Sour nodded. Anak scowled at him, but answered: "Yes, sir. Count Dooku said that you would help us," he sighed, releasing his misgivings into the Force. "What Sergeant Sour was going to say was that the Count convinced the trainer to help us escape Kamino once they had the means to reveal their master in the Republic Senate."

"He mentioned that," Fett said, grim faced. "Dooku told Vos and I there was a Sith in the Senate. He wanted to warn Kenobi."

"If that's his master, why would he reveal them?" Cody asked, puzzled.

"Because that was the mission," A new voice called. A vode voice.

Bant appeared, helping a vode over to them and forcing him to sit on one of the gurneys. He looked older then the CCs. Possibly an Alpha? Strangely, it seemed the Kaminoans had replicated many of Fett's scars onto him. What purpose did that serve?

"This is why we needed to wait for you," Feemor said. "You need to hear this from him."

"Dooku was never a Sith," the vode informed them as he let Bant check him over. "He found a Jedi Artifact that allowed him to seem dark, but remain light; don't ask me how, that Force Osik[8] goes over my head."

"Dooku hasn't fallen?" Obi-wan asked, his turn to be skeptical. "He certainly felt like had when he tried to kill me a few hours ago."

The vode chuckled. "Yeah, well, that's the point-" He froze, turning alarmed eyes on Obi-wan. "A few hours? But Dooku's dead." The truth of that statement rang out like a gong in the Force.

"Dead?" Yoda asked, growing pale as he shifted his weight to his cane.

"Du Crion killed him right in front of me before I was frozen," the vode reported sadly.

"He's been frozen for seven years," Feemor informed them, kneeling down to comfort his grandmaster.

"You're his old master, Yoda, right?" The Jedi nodded sadly. "He wanted me to tell you the truth if...if this happened. After the massacre on Galidraan he began investigating the Senate and Jedi Regulation Office and found signs of the Sith. He left the Order to find proof and pretended to fall to draw them out. It worked, he met the Sith apprentice who had earned a position in the Senate, but he needed solid evidence to accuse them. He was getting close, he'd found something here, something damning, but then he gave himself away. He'd adopted the previous apprentice, Maul, who appeared to be killed during the Naboo blockade--" Obi-wan winced, the furious face of his master's killer flashing before his mind's eye "--But he survived. Their master knew and had left him to rot. Dooku wanted to rescue Maul, but he messed up and Du Crion caught him. I'm sorry."

Yoda collapsed. Feemor helped lower him to the floor, letting the old master lean on him as Obi-wan and Mace knelt to offer their own comfort. Yoda hugged his gimmer to his chest; Dooku had carved it for his 850th birthday.

"If Dooku is dead," Ponds asked, covering for the mourning Jedi. "Who was on Geonosis?"

The vode frowned and looked to the FCs. "Lumen."

Anak flinched. "Kark[9]," Sour cursed.

"Lumen was the strongest of us," Anak informed them. "His results what kept the Kaminoans from flushing us all before decanting. He was all light, all kindness, and the Count planned to take him as his apprentice once we were liberated. He was the one that convinced Maul to turn from the Dark side. They became lovers."

"Feemor winced. "Oh, I can't unsee that," He mumbled.

"Not the time, Fee," Obi-wan scolded his brother, even as Yoda managed a wet little chuckle. "Hang on," he turned to the Vode. "How do you know all this? For that matter, what warranted you ending up down here in the first place?"

Fett answered, bleeding sorrow in the Force: "This is Jango Fett. The real Jango Fett."

[1] Vode: Alteration on “Vod’e” meaning Brother. It’s what the clones call themselves as a group and individuals.

[2] Faire'uile: Watch all

[3] Ard (McArd): Loud

[4] Ceann Dearg: Red Headed

[5] Mar sin leat- good bye

[6] Mar sin leibh an'drasta- good bye (reply)

[7] Buir: Parent

[8] Osik: Shit

[9] Kark: F*uck

Chapter Text

“Trainer Kain,” one of the long necks called, disrupting the silent classroom.

The seven vode[1] in the classroom turned to watch their navigation trainer speak to Nala Se. It was rare to see her during flash training. Actually, it was rare for the Nulls[2] to see her at all. Ever since the CTs began decanting she had focused on them, leaving the Nulls to Kal’buir[3] and Prime. She had no reason to be there.

Unless it had something to do with Prime’s outburst at mid-meal.

“Null 2,” Trainer Kain called.

Six sets of eyes turned to their brother. Tarre stood and approached the two adults. He felt the distress of his brothers, the sorrow of trainer Kain, and the void that should have been Nala Se’s heart. The female was cold, unfeeling, and viewed all the vode as nothing more then experiments, subjects to poke, prod, and take apart if she could sneak past Prime. In Tarre’s short life he had never felt anyone so devoid of empathy or compassion. A pulse of warning traveled down his spine and he signaled Jaing: Get Prime.

Nala Se said nothing, just turned and expected Tarre to follow. He did, knowing doing otherwise would just delay the inevitable. Nala Se had never been one to fall for distractions and stalling like some of the others. The only way to avoid whatever she had planned was for Prime to interfere. Tarre hoped he’d get there in time.

They rode the lift down to the lowest levels, where even Prime didn’t go. This was Longneck territory, more so then anywhere else in the city. The walls screamed with sorrow and pain. Nowhere in Tipoca felt like this. This was a bad place. Nala Se reached for the door controls on her lab.

GET OUT OF THERE!

Tarre was turning before he could even think. The voice had never led him wrong, and he wouldn’t ignore it now. He bolted down the hall, heading for the barely used stairs. He was reaching for the door control when something oily and cold rushed at him. It grabbed him and lifted him off the ground. He tried to push it away, pulling up his walls to save his mind. It wound tighter, burning him with it’s cold, and yanked him backwards.

It pulled him back down the hall. He was slammed into the flood and tumbled across it. A booted foot stopped him, leaving a bruise on his side. Reluctantly, Tarre opened his eyes and looked up. Lama Su and Nala Se stood with a stranger. A fair-skinned human male with dark hair, acid yellow eyes, and a broken circle scar on his cheek. That oily, cold, darkness clung to the stranger like rain on Kamino. Tarre recoiled in disgust, feeling his skin crawl.

The man sneered. “Yes,” he said coldly, kicking Tarre onto his back. “This one will do. Up, clone.”

This man brought doom, Tarre felt it in his bones. If he gave up and complied, they wouldn’t hesitate to do this again to his vod’ika[4], and he couldn’t let that happen. He had to make them suffer, fight to destroy him. Make them regret ever touching a Vode.

Tarre kicked at the stranger’s leg. They pulled it away, balanced on the other. Tarre kicked at that too. The stranger jumped, tumbling in the air over him. Tarre rolled to his feet and charged him. He caught the stranger round the middle and bore him to the ground. He jumped up. He pinned their chest with his weight and started punching.

Nose broken! Bottom lip split! Jaw stressed! Left cheek lacerated! Right eye blackened!

The stranger burned with anger and pain. Darkness pushed and pulled at Tarre, but he wouldn’t budge. He held on to the Light, lashing out with his fists with a single thought: protect my Vod’ika. This man would bring doom to his brothers and only Tarre could stop him. He had to stop him!

“Execute order 10!”

Cease all hostilities and comply to all orders given by Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion

“Yes, my lord,” Null-2 said mechanically, arms falling to the side.

“Get off me,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion growled.

“Yes, my lord,” Null-2 replied, pushing off, stepping back, and falling into parade rest.

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion pushed to his feet, whipping blood off his face and glaring at Null-2. He pulled back his arm and slapped Null-2 so hard as to cause Null-2 to stumble back. Null-2 noted minor damage, but it did not need maintenance and so was not mentioned as parade rest was resumed. Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion ceased glaring, apparently satisfied.

 “As I warned, Lord DuCrion,” head scientist Nala Se said, drawing Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion’s gaze. “The nulls are willful and uncooperative.”

“But it still complied to the command,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion replied, grabbing Null-2’s chin to examine the cheek that was struck. “If the chips can control one so strong they’ll work on-“

“Chips?” Tarre asked, fighting off the daze.

“What?” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion demanded. “Did you speak?”

“I am not to speak unless spoke to,” Null-2 quoted.

No! Kal’buir said we should speak our mind, and not go down without a fight.

“Kal’buir” was not a recognized designation. It must be an error. Protocol is to inform a Kaminoan scientist or other pre-approved beings of errors.

Null-2 turned to Nala Se and reported: “This unit is experiencing-“

“What did you do to me?!” Tarre demanded, yanking back from DuCrion’s grip and scrambling for the Light, fighting the darkness in his own head.

“It’s fighting off the chip with the Force,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion noted, seeming impressed. “It’s stronger than I expected with no training. We’ll have to install the enhanced inhibitor chip immediately, or risk it using the Force to undo my spell. Is that possible?”

“Yes, Lord DuCrion,” Head scientist Nala Se confirmed. “And I request the original chip be removed for study. It may be beneficial to understand the effect the Force had on it.”

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion shrugged.

“Proceed,” Prime Minister Lama Su agreed. “And apply your findings to future chips. It will improve productivity if we need not decommission any future Force Sensitive units.” Head Scientist Nala Se inclined her head to him. “Shall we proceed? I believe the cleaning droids have finished removing Count Dooku’s blood.”

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion chuckled darkly. “Null-2,” He snapped, causing Null-2 to stand taller. “Follow me.”

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion turned and Null-2 fell in two steps behind him, to his left. The room they enter was bright and sterile, with various medical equipment and several examination tables with straps to contain subjects. In the back of the room an unconscious, pale pink human male was being attended to be droids; they seemed to be making changes to his physical appearance, artificially aging him.

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion led them to a table where Cloning Templet Jango Fett had been strapped down and gagged. Cloning Templet Jango Fett glared hatefully at Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion, growling behind his gag. He spotted Null-2 and his face folded in anguish.

“You’ve got a visitor, Fett,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion said, cruelly delighted. “And guess what? He has the Force.”

Prime’s eyes went wide, fear and fury souring his usual presence, and started to struggle. He wanted out to protect Tarre, but he couldn’t. There was no way out. But hope whispered at the edge of Tarre’s sense. Someday they’d-

“This unit is experiencing an error,” Null-2 reported.

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion chuckled. “We’re going to fix that. Stand here.” He pointed right next to Cloning Templet Jango Fett’s table.

Cloning Templet Jango Fett was crying. Null-2’s vision blurred. Null-2 blinked and it cleared, but wetness trailed from the corner of the eyes down.

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion beckoned a black, angular droid with red details. It was carrying a dark crystal that pulsed bright green. Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion accepted the crystal with a darkly gleeful expression. Cloning Templet Jango Fett struggled against his bonds, thrashing his head as Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion attempted to place the crystal on his forehead.

“Hold him still,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion snapped at the droid. It did so.

Cloning Templet Jango Fett screamed into his gag. Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion placed the crystal on his forehead, chanting in a language Null-2 did not recognize. Cloning Templet Jango Fett’s eyes rolled back into his head, body going rigid.

Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion turned to Null-2 and ordered: “Touch the crystal.”

Tarre clenched his fists, trying to resist. That crystal felt so cold and Dark it would only hurt him. He wanted his buir.

“Place your hands on the crystal,” Sith Acolyte Xanatos DuCrion said more forcefully. “And don’t let go.”

Null-2 complied.

Pain shot through Tarre like a blaster bolt. He had to let go!

Null-2 had been ordered not to.

Jango watched the fields around his home burn, screams, smoke, and blaster fire filling the air.

Error, Null-2 had never been to a location with fields.

Jango cried in Jas’buir’s arms as the medic reset his broken arm after falling during his first live jetpack lesson.

These were Prime’s memories. Or were they his? What was happening?

Jango held Jas’buir as he died on Korba XI.

No! No! These were just pain. He had to let go or he’d get lost!

Null-2 had been ordered not to let go.

Jango stood on a snowy field, looking at the burnt and bloody remains of his people. Verde who had chosen him as Mand’alor and followed him faithfully. Now they were all dead under his care.

Let go! Tarre had to let go!

Jango could hear the whine of Lightsabers, screams of falling Verd. He ran into the fray. Jetiise! Jango tore into them with his bare hands. They had to pay!

Error! Null-2 had not yet seen-

Jango thrashed against his captors. He’d only killed 6, but that wasn’t enough! The Haat’ade were dead and Jango had to avenge them. The Jetiise stood over him looking…confused?

Pleased. They were proud of themselves for subduing you, Fett. They’d be rewarded for whipping out the savage Mandalorians, there was a parade waiting for them at home. Everyone celebrating the death of your people.

Is that really what happened?

That didn’t sound like the Jedi they were learn-

Voice recognized as Sith Acolyte Xan-

Jango was given to the Governor of Galidraan. His guards stripped Jango of his Beskar’gam. They sold him to slavery.

He had to let-

Null-2 was not-

Days blurred together on the spice freighter. Jango was beaten, starved, and forced to work in horrible conditions along side beings who had given up on the hope of ever knowing freedom. But Jango wouldn’t give up. He would escape. He’d kill the bastards on the ship. Then he’d take care of that bastard on Galidraan, Viszla, and Montross. And then….and then?

The Jedi. You’re going to destroy them. Kill all of them like they killed all your people. You’re the only survivor, it’s your duty to avenge them.

Error, must-

No, he had to-

Jango escaped the spice freighter. He killed his enemies. He became a beroya. He was good at it, but it brought him no closer to getting his revenge. Then a Jedi a Sith approached him. Count Dooku Darth Tyrannus .

“I can help you get justice for Galidraan revenge against the Jedi .”

Please-

Erro-

Jango accepted.

“Once I woke up, they said I’d been in an accident and needed treatment,” Tarre continued to explain, tucked into his buir’s side; Skirata had embraced him as soon as he learned this was his lost ad. “They put me under and when I woke up, I looked like Prime. They sent me back, I took on Boba, and have lived as you ever since. I’m sorry I couldn’t-“

“No!” Skirata, Fett, and A’den rushed to say.

“You were just a cadet, Ori’vod[5],” A’den said, clutching his shoulders his arm was wrapped around.

“I failed you, Tar’ika[6],” Skirata said, squeezing him close. “It’s my responsibility to protect you.”

“Our responsibility,” Fett added, standing to approach them. “I lost my head, and you were made to pay.” He took Tarre’s hand and squeezed it in comfort. “But you fought well, and your bravery will help us protect your brothers.” He turned to the watching Jedi. “I’d just learned about the chips when I was…put in storage. The Kaminoans said they were to control aggression. I knew it was a lie, but I couldn’t imagine they’d allow the Sith to control the Vode.”

“Can they be removed?” Cody asked, shields beskar[7] strong but still not fully containing the storm of his emotions. “Can you get them out of us?” His eyes bored into the Jedi present.

“Yes,” Bant said confidently. “If the Kaminoans could switch the chips in Tarre then it’s possible to remove them all together.” She turned to the two Nulls still clinging to each other. “A'den, when you take Tarre up to the medical wing please inform baar’ur[8] Gilamar of the chips and ask him scan any volunteers he can find; we need to know if we can locate them using the standard units. And please contact me when he’s finished treating you, Tarre. I need to examine you in the Force to finish cleaning out the spell and for suppression syndrome, both of which will be too taxing to then go through a physical examination. Are we clear?”

“Yes, ma'am,” they both answered.

Skirata pulled each of them into a Keldabe kiss[9] before sending them. It pained him to send them off. Obi-wan wanted to tell him to go, but they needed him. There were still things to do.

“Masters,” Bant called to the councilors. “May I have your permission to begin releasing the other Force Clones?”

“Is that wise?” Mace asked.

“I sense no darkness from them,” Obi-wan offered.

“I can vouch for them,” Fett put in, Skirata falling in at his side. “Yan shared everything he could on them and I trust they’ll side with us.”

“Yes, sir,” Anak confirmed, his brothers at his side. “We wish to aid in bringing our Prime's killer to justice and riding the galaxy of the Sith.”

“Noble,” Yoda said, pleased. “And welcomed, you would be, if the man vouching for you was not also a stranger to us. Know we can trust you, we do not.”

Skirata prepared to speak, but Cody answered: “I trust him.”

“You do?” Obi-wan asked, surprised. Cody had found Tarre’s presence as Fett difficult and had been working to control his anger the entire trip back to Kamino.

“The Jango Fett Tarre was forced to be was a right bastard,” Cody said, not looking away from Fett. “But the one I remember before that was a good man. He cared for us and tried to help us feel like real people; he named me himself.”

Recognition shifted Fett's face into a warm smile. “Kote,” he said, certain.

“I trust his opinion,” Cody affirmed, trying to ignore the coloring dusting his cheeks; happiness at being recognized.

“Thank you, commander,” Mace said with a nod. “Healer Bant, you may proceed. Please keep us informed of your progress. Now,” He turned to the rest of them. “I think we had best get ready for the briefing. I expect it to be…illuminating.”

[1] Vode: choosen name for the clones as a people.

[2] Nulls: first test batch of clones

[3] Buir: parent

[4] Vod’ika: Little sibling

[5] Ori’vod: Older sibling

[6] ‘Ika: little, a term of endearment

[7] Beskar: Mandalorian iron

[8] Baar’ur: Medic

[9] Keldabe Kiss: gentle headbutt to show affection

Chapter Text

After Bant cleared Jango and Anak’s unit to attend the meeting—with strict instructions to get a full health check at the med-bay right after—they left the lab. The Force Clones were eager to speak with actual Jedi, learn about life in the temple and how they interacted with the Force. Yoda and Koon were happy to share, a fond glow in their signatures. Their curiosity was so similar to how Madam Nu spoke of his old crèche mate, Dooku.

While they all knew they needed to attend this meeting, there was time to reach it and a great deal to process. A sense of unease clung to all of them, and grim certainty that the upcoming meeting was going to be unpleasant. Obi-wan couldn’t imagine the revelation that the real Jango Fett had been in carbonite for the last 7 years, replaced by their brainwashed brother, would be received well by the Vode.

Speaking of the real Jango Fett, he was falling behind. Obi-wan felt the Force poke him to speak with the man and didn’t argue. He slowed his steps to fall in next to him. Cody noticed, but at Obi-wan’s assuring wave he continued to listen to Mace and Sour speak.

“You’re troubled,” Obi-wan observed, not looking at the man but giving him his full attention.

“It’s rude to poke around people’s head,” Jango scowled at him

“You’re projecting,” Obi-wan informed him, resisting a smile.

Jango sighed, frustrated. “Tarre mentioned Boba,” he answered.

“I’ve met him,” Obi-wan informed him, glancing at his forlorn face. “He’s a good fighter, though a bit mischievous. He helped my padawan rescue Senator Amidala, Tarre, and my friend Quinlan. You should be…” It suddenly hit him, stopping him in his tracks. “You didn’t get to raise him.”

Jango stopped too, not looking at anyone even when Cody came over to check on them.

Jango’s fists shook at his side, pain loud and deep in the Force. “Last time I saw him he was 3,” he laughed, almost bitter. “He never stopped asking questions. Now he’s 10?” Cody nodded. “He’s already started his Verd’goten training, and it wasn’t with me. He doesn’t even know it wasn’t me.”

“Tarre’s been a good buir to him,” Cody assured him. “Tough, but never cruel, and he seems happy.”

Jango sighed and gave Cody a crooked smile. “There’s that, at least. Still wish he could have looked after the rest of you.”

“But that’s not what’s actually worrying you,” Obi-wan observed.

“No,” Jango agreed. “I’m worried about how Boba will react, of course, this is a horrible mess, but what’s bothering is me is that he didn’t mention Sarla.”

Cody scowled in confusion. “Who?”

If anything, that made Jango more upset, scared. “I asked for two children in the contract. A son, Boba, and a girl, Sarla. The Kaminoans had trouble controlling the mutations to make her, so she’d only just entered the last trimester when I was,” He gulped, trying to control the twist of rage and guilt. “…imprisoned. I don’t know happened to her.”

Obi-wan turned to Cody, unease twisting his own gut; Tipoca was not a safe place for a child alone. “Have you seen any girls around the city?”

“No,” he said, grip tight on his helmet. “But we almost never came down here, and there may still be areas they haven’t been able to investigate. I’ll com a team to-"

“No need.”

A child stepped out of a corridor just behind them. She was small, 6 or 7, with big brown eyes and short blond hair that curled at the temples. She looked a lot like the cadets that age, but slighter and she carried herself differently, no military precision; this was a little girl used to hiding, not marching. Her face was the perfect nerf-in-speeder-lights look, like she hadn’t intended to show herself. She was burning with nerves, almost terrified of Jango staring at her and instead kept twisting the hem of her tunic.

“Hello,” she said shyly, giving an awkward wave; she had the same accent as the vode, but it had the airiness of the kaminoans.

Jango’s relief washed across Obi-wan’s mind like a great wave. The girl’s eyes went wide with surprise; she had the Force, it seemed. Slowly, Jango went down on his knee with the softest smile Obi-wan had ever seen. It was quite handsome. Uh, no, mustn’t think like that, Obi.

“Hello, ad,” Jango said, emotion welling in his voice. “I’m so glad to meet you.”

“Really?” She asked, surprised and timid. “It’s just…Nala Se said you didn’t want me.”

Jongo’s anger was sharp, but at the girl’s flinch he pulled it back. “Sorry,” He said, with an apologetic smile. “I’m not angry at you. Nala Se oversaw your growth; she was there every time I visited you. She knew how excited I was to bring you home.”

“I think I could feel-“ She slapped her hands over her mouth, terrified; clumsy shields slammed down around her mind.

“It’s alright,” Obi-wan said, kneeling to her level. “I can feel you too. You’re an empath, possibly Force sensitive.” Cody was surprised, but Jango wasn’t.

She looked around, making sure they were alone. She leaned in and whispered, hands around her mouth. “Nala Se said I couldn’t tell anyone,” she told them.

“That was before,” Obi-wan whispered back. “It’s safe now. The Jedi and Vode control the city, and your buir is here to protect you.” He nodded toward Jango.

She turned her wide eyes on Jango, who smiled at Obi-wan before turning to her. “Buir?” she whispered.

He nodded. “If you want-?” He was interrupted by her throwing herself into his chest. “I’ve got you, Ad’ika. I won’t let them take you again.” She clung to him tighter, on the verge of tears.

Cody turned away, his emotions roiling: confusion, wonder, jealousy, affection, anger. Obi-wan stood and placed a hand on his shoulder for comfort. Cody looked at him in confusion and, after a moment, smiled in thanks. He took a breath, bringing his emotions under control.

“Do you have a name?” Jango asked the girl.

“Nala Se called me Omega,” She said with a frown. “It means Last.”

“In basic it does,” Jango told her, stoking her cheek fondly. “In Mando’a it means edge of a shadow. Old poets used it to describe the end of a dark time and the beginning of hope.”

 “Oh,” she said, surprised, whipping the tears from her eyes. “I like that better.”

Jango chuckled. “Me too,” he agreed. “It was also my Om’buir’s name. She’d be honored to share it with you.” Omega beamed and hugged him close. Jango squeezed and stood, moving her to sit on his hip and turned to Obi-wan and Cody. “This is Obi-wan,” He said, nodding to the smiling Jedi. “He adopted the Vode to keep them safe.”

“It’s very nice to meet you, Omega,” He said with a bow. Omega smiled shyly at him and waved.

“And this is your ori’vod, Kote,” He said, smiling at a shocked Cody. “He’s named after my Ba’buir. He’s in charge of the vode, a great leader, like I knew he’d be.”

Cody looked like he was going to cry, completely overwhelmed. Telegraphing his movement, Jango reached out and pulled Cody to him. He pressed their foreheads in a keldabe kiss, letting him cry. Omega reached out and hugged Cody too, his arm automatically coming up to hold her as she cried too. He reached out to Obi-wan, the jedi instantly taking his hand, only to be pulled into the hug as well. They stood there, holding each other as Cody and Omega cried their hearts out.

After a moment Jango opened misty eyes and looked at Obi-wan, not moving his head from Cody. He smiled and Obi-wan couldn’t help the shy smile in return. Tentatively, he moved his arm around Jango’s back. When the man leaned into it Obi-wan curled his hand around his hip and pulled them all closer. This was dangerously pleasant.

Once her tears were under control, Omega asked: “Why did you two go all warm and squishy?”

Obi-wan instantly schooled his face into polite neutrality, noticing Jango do that same as his mental shields quickly went up. Cody looked between them and scowled, unimpressed.

“Really?” He asked, unimpressed. “Him?” He pointed at Jango.

Jango gave a shocked laugh. “Well, I see who the favorite buir is,” He chuckled, making Obi-wan laugh as well.

“I believe we have a meeting to attend,” Obi-wan said, deciding to avoid the entire tangle like a reasonable adult. “Let’s give Cody a moment to freshen up, find some vode who would like to meet their little sister, and then-“

“Wait,” Omega burst, then became shy when they turned to her. “Um, well, I came out to ask for help. Nala Se was working on the experimental unit when the security alarm went off and she had to leave. They’re not supposed to be in the tubes more than 16 hours, but I’m too small to get them out.”

“Experimental unit?” Jango asked, worried.

“Hunter, Tech, Crosshair, and Wrecker,” She explained as Jango put her down at her insistence. “She was working to enhance their mutations into useful skills.”

“I didn’t think they liked mutation,” Obi-wan said.

“They don’t,” Cody confirmed. “Where are they? Sargent A’den said they’ve searched all her spaces.”

“Not the secret lab.”

Jango and Cody scowled and asked: “What secret lab?”

With the arrival of the healers, only Obi-wan, Commander Cody, and Jango Fett were missing. Mace knew Fett was struggling—no surprise—so he hadn’t protested them falling back, especially when a young Force signature had appeared and been welcomed. Now they were ten minutes late to the meeting Obi-wan insisted on. Well, Mace wasn’t going to wait, they needed to move quickly. He called the room to order, the light chatter dying down.

He nodded to Ponds who started a recording device, to make everything official.

“The purpose of this meeting is to share all available information on the cloning project and impending war,” he said for the recording, looking at the Jedi, clones, and trainers in the room, as well as the few councilors still on Coruscant. “We’ll begin with-“ He stopped, feeling Obi-wan’s alarmed presence approaching quickly; that was never good.

The doors opened for Commander Cody, face grim. Obi-wan and Fett were right behind him, a little girl in Fett’s arms. They all were rattled.

“We were just about to start the-“ Mace informed them, the note of scolding in his voice reflexive and unavoidable.

 “We have a problem,” Obi-wan said, hurrying to a console to plug a data chip. “A very large problem.”

“Many problems, we have,” Yoda reminded him.

Fett shook his head: “Oh no, this…,” he chuckled, almost hysterical. “This is catastrophic.”

“Chancellor Palpatine is the Sith Master!” Obi-wan informed the room, not looking up as he typed.

The room was silent. Mace wasn’t sure if that was the least surprising accusation he’d heard since this started, or the most outlandish. Worryingly, the Force didn’t contradict Obi-wan.

“…What?” Feemor asked, sounding strangled.

“Proof?” Koon requested.

Obi-wan made a triumphant noise and a holo image appeared. Everyone gasped. It was a room lined with 30 tubes large enough the hold an adult humanoid in suspension. In fact, most of them did hold humanoids, all in their mid to late 20s. But even so much younger than the man that presided over the Senate, the features could be recognized.

“This was taken in a hidden lab. 26 mentally blank clones of Chancellor Sheev Palpatine,” he switched images to a real leather book with jagged writing that made all the Jedi in the room flinch. “With a sith grimoire detailing how to send one’s soul into a soulless body after their original is killed. Effectively, becoming immortal.

Horror filled the air like poison gas. Mace had heard of such things in creche horror stories, and the horrific experiments and rituals needed: torture, corpse mutilation, cannibalism, and child sacrifice. It was a disgusting perversion of life, anathema to everything the Jedi believed. The preparation and power needed was so immense there was no way a Sith would do it for another; Palpatine had done it for himself.

“What the kark?” Seargent A’den asked, furious. “Where were they?”

“In Nala Se’s secret lab,” Fett explained, looking halfway between being sick with fear and punching a wall in fury. “Hidden below her secured lab. Only her and Omega, her assistant, even knew about the project.” He put the girl down in front and presented her. “By the way, ad’e, this is Omega, your little sister. Nala Se took advantage of my,” his face twisted in guilt, “…imprisonment to keep her.”

“Hi,” she said with a shy wave.

“Hello,” Bant said automatically, then shook her head clear. “This is bad.”

Mace laughed at the understatement. “He controls both sides of the war: The Republic and the Separatists, this whole war is under his control. It’s a game where only he wins.”

“But why?” Master Sinube asked over holo. “What will this duplicity gain him?”

Fett laughed humorlessly, hands resting on Omega’s shoulders. “Galactic domination,” he answered. “What else? That’s what most Sith want in the end, isn’t it?”

“And to destroy the Jedi,” Obi-wan sighed, sounding exhausted. “We’re meant to be leading the vode in this war,” he nodded to Commander Cody and his alarmed brothers. “And given it’s scale and our numbers we’d be on our own with battalions who could be made to turn on us against their will with a few words.”

“Excuse me?” Tholme asked whilst Commander Wolffe demanded: “What?”

Feemor answered: “The vode have control chips in their head. The false Jango Fett, Tarre Skirata,” He gestured to the man, standing next to Skirata. “Told us after we discovered the real Fett,” He gestured to Fett. “In carbonite with Dooku’s clones.” He nodded at Anak and his brothers.

Silence greeted this revelation.

Rex raised his hand. “I’m sorry,” he said, not sorry at all. “But I’m lost.”

Obi-wan winced. “It may be time for everyone to give their reports.”

Mace heartily agreed.

Chapter Text

“Alright,” Master Windu sighed. “Now that we’ve traumatized everyone, we need to decide our next actions.”

“May I recommend we first take time to process?” Madam Che offered where she was supporting a shaken healer Eerin. Most of them were leaning on eachother for support.

“Usually I’d love to,” Fett said from Obi-wan’s side; he’d sent Omega off with Rex as soon as she’d given them access to Nala Se’s deeply disturbing notes from the “Pheonix” project and the control chips. “But we have to move. Palpatine has had years of time to prepare for this war, we’ve got days to derail or contain it.”

“First we decide our primary objectives,” Commander Cody said, taking control. “Then how to accomplish them and who to assign. Break down each one into tasks and teams.”

“Stop the war,” Commander Wolffe said bluntly. Commander Ponds put it on a list that appeared above the holo table.

“Protect and rescue the Vode,” Mij said, getting sharp nods from Madam Che, Knight Eerin, and Master Ti.

“Protect the Republic,” Mace added, earning eye rolls from the assembled Mandalorians and Master Tholme. “And the Order.”

“Kill Palpatine,” Fett said.

“I think that’s more of a step in our other goals,” Feemor put in. Ponds added it anyway.

“The Vode should be the easiest,” Mij said, skimming a pad. “Nala Se found that the Mynock fever vaccine interacting with a common vitamin shot organically broke down the chips. She couldn’t find a solution, so she switched vitamins shots. We’ll run some tests to check, but I’ve never heard of any negative side effects in others. We should be able to start synthesizing tonight and start giving out doses in the morning.”

“The venerator on Geonosis should also have the supplies and facilities to make enough doses for the unit holding the planet,” Bant said, consulting a pad with Madam Che.

“And I can instruct the healers at the temple to make enough for the men escorting Senator Amidala and the prisoners,” The head healer said.

"The accelerated ageing is also easily stopped by removing the trigger hormone from their food," Mij went on. "6 months off the hormone will permanently flush the stimulant from the pituitary gland." Madam Che smiled and nodded.

“We need a com’s black out until the majority of the vode are treated,” Feemor insisted. “In case Palpatine or Xanatos realize what we’re doing and try to send orders. And keep anyone from tipping them off; we don’t know whether they had more contacts beyond Nala Se and the prime minister.”

“Agreed,” Commander cody said. “We’ll arrange check-ins with all off-world teams. And we need to prioritize treating all vode heading out on assignments.”

“Once we start wider treatment we can start moving the vode to Stewjon,” Obi-wan put in. “The armada should arrive about mid-meal tomorrow, prepared to turn around once they’re loaded. Temporary housing is ready as well as the planetary security grid and defense force.”

Commander Cody nodded. “Kamino has no defenses to speak of, so once there they’ll be safe.”

“But on the way?” Fett asked, scowling. “There’s plenty of open space between here and Stewjon, can the armada keep them safe?”

“They’ve sent two fighters per transport,” Jiang reported from his pad. “And we have a squadron of training fighters we could refit for live fire. If the engineers start now, they could have the first wing ready by tomorrow evening.”

“Get them on it,” Cody said with a nod to leave.

“We’ll start testing and give you an update when we have one,” Madam Che informed the room. She bowed and led Mij and Bant out after Jiang.

“What about the lost vode?” Obi-wan asked Tholme.

“I’ve contacted Master Fay. She’s a grand Master of the order who has spent the last few hundred years exclusively in the outer rim,” He explained for the room. “She’s the only one I can reliably contact of the 4 who do so; they almost never come in past the colonies. She’s agreed to contact the others to keep an eye out, but little else,” He sighed sadly. “As she so helpfully reminded me, our absence in the outer rim has allowed the slave trade to flourish and there’s little hope of finding the lost vode. We would have to take down the entire industry to have any hope-“

“What do you need?” Cody asked, as Ponds wrote down “End slavery” under “Protect and save Vode”.

“At this point?” Obi-wan asked, stroking his beard thoughtfully. “An army. In the early Republic the Order was an army fresh from defeating the Sith and turned on the Slave empires that ruled the rim. As our numbers have waned, they have rebuilt and are now so deeply intrenched another war would be needed to destroy them. Between the freedom trails, the SLC, and the Order’s agents we know more then enough to cripple them, we just lack numbers. Or, we did, I suppose.”

“I thought we were trying to prevent war,” Skirata pointed out.

“We were trained to be soldiers,” Wolffe pointed out. “We don’t know anything else.”

“Yet,” Koon offered kindly.

“Yet,” Wolffe agreed. “And while there are those who will want a different life, enough of us will choose to fight to save our lost vode.”

“And fighting a war against slavery is vastly different then one orchestrated by a mad Sith trying to take over the galaxy,” Obi-wan pointed out, earning a chuckle from Yoda and glare from Mace.

“There’s almost no politics to it,” Fett declared with a shrug. “The only people who would be against it are going to be killed anyway.”

Obi-wan shook his head fondly. “But, I’m afraid that that war will have to wait. We need to stop this war first.”

“But we can spare a battalion to start scouting,” Cody stated. “Wolffe, contact Alpha-27 and have him put out a call for Volunteers. He was on track to become a black-ops commander, he’ll know who can handle the assignment.”

Wolffe started tapping at him com.

“The impending war, next, we should address,” Yoda insisted.

“Agreed,” Mace said. “If it comes to war Palpatine will be given emergency powers, removing many restrictions on his office. He will still answer to the Senate, but by controlling the war he could arrange events that would prompt the senate to give him more power until he’s in total control.”

“Senator Amidala was leading a campaign against declaring war,” Obi-wan added. “It’s why she was targeted and Anakin and I were…Oh dear.”

“What?” Cody asked.

“If I recall,” Obi-wan said, looking to Mace for confirmation. “Palpatine was the one to request Anakin and I to protect her.” Mace nodded. “He must have wanted us to discover the clones.”

“Or just you,” Koon pointed out. “If you had followed Tarre to Geonosis you would have been captured, and likely killed in the arena before we could arrive. Given that Lady Skywalker was also brought there, he wanted Anakin present as well. In the ensuing conflict it would have been simple to arrange for her death. Killing both of his parental figures in the same battle before a war.”

“For what purpose?” Skirata asked, dreading the answer.

“For the past ten years Palpatine has been attempting to groom Skywalker,” Mace sighed. “Likely as a Sith, instead of a lover as we feared. The death of his father and long missing mother would have likely triggered his Fall, or set him down that path. Fortunately, he has been visiting a mind healer since Palpatine started threatening the Order’s budget to gain access to him.”

“And they didn’t die,” Ponds put in. Mace nodded.

“Instead, he’s being held hostage by my presumed dead, insane, former Padawan brother who is a sith acolyte,” Obi-wan said, slightly hysterical. “This may actually be my worst nightmare.”

Feemor came to his side and looped an arm around his shoulders. Obi-wan leaned into him strength.

“Rescuing Skywalker, a priority should be,” Yoda said, deeply worried.

“Agreed,” Cody said. “Beyond personal connections, he’s a powerful hostage.”

“And a potential weapon,” Skirata said. “With ten years of unfettered access and who knows how much antient Sith knowledge, there’s no telling what he could have done to the kid. I think most of us have heard the horror stories of mind controlled sleeper agents during the Sith Empire.”

Obi-wan trembled, breathing deeply to keep himself uncontrol. Tarre elbowed his buir in the ribs. Cody offered his hand to Obi-wan who latched on gratefully, almost desperately.

“Xanatos will keep him close,” Ti said. “Likely at the Dooku Palace on Serenno. I believe that will be a target?”

“Yes,” Cody agreed. “Du Crion controls Lumen who controls the Sepratists as Dooku. With most of their leadership on the way to Coruscant for trial he’s the only one pushing for war on their side.”

“If we can recover Lumen he’ll be able to convince them to stand down,” Anak offered. “He was in the top 5 of our negotiation classes and studied diplomacy with the Count.”

“Undermine Xanatos’s control, we nearly did,” Yoda provides. “When questioned Lumen’s actions, I did.”

“He nearly shock it off completely when Du Crion mentioned buir failing to kill dark siders,” Cody recalled.

“Maul,” Obi-wan provided, taking a shaky breath “Lumen must know he’s alive. If you can find him alive and bring him to Seranno it may be enough for Lumen to shake off the compulsion.”

“His batchmates as well,” Sour added from Anak’s side. “The Count taught us to form Creche bonds within our batches to help keep each other in the Light. But how do we find a dead man?”

“He was red skinned, right?” Feemor asked, getting nods from Obi-wan and the FCs. “Then he was probably a Dathomiri Zabrak. All Dathomiri share a latent Force bond with the matriarch of the Night Sister witches: Mother Talsin. I had contact with her when I was Watchmen of the area, and one of our Shadows is also Dathomiri. The two of us might be able to convince her to help, but at a price. The Night Sisters are Gray, in terms of the Force, but definitely dark leaning.”

“You have our authorization to negotiate on the Order’s behalf,” Mace told him.

Feemor nodded and pulled out his com. “I’ll call Knight Ventress and meet her on the way,” He said. He squeezed Obi-wan in comfort then started to leave.

“You need a team,” A’den says, stopping him. “Back up in case the Night sisters or Maul are hostile, and a medic for him. Kenobi cut him in half 10 years ago, I can’t imagine he’ll be in good shape.”

Feemor eyed him skeptically. “Are you volunteering?”

“Yes.”

“Oh,” Feemor sounded surprised. “Ok then.”

“You should take Lumen’s batch as well,” Cody said. “There’s no telling where Maul ended up and you might not have time to collect them before heading to Seranno. And they should be useful against other Force users.” He checked that last fact with Anak, who nodded.

“It may take time to track Maul down,” Tholme pointed out. “A team should head to Seranno to keep tabs on Du Crion and Lumen. They might also find a way to extract Anakin.”

“And find Dooku’s data cache,” Fett added, getting all their attention. “We both kept several caches of the evidence we collected, constantly updated, and we told eachother one of them in case something happened. The one I know is in the park outside Seranno palace, in the base of his sister’s memorial statue. He hadn’t been able to get irrefutable proof of his master’s identity, all circumstantial, but now we know it’s Palpatine it should give the teams on Coruscant a head start.”

“I’ll lead the Seranno team and send the data to Quinlan,” Tholme decided. “Once he’s awake he can coordinate the investigation.”

“He’ll try to be part of it,” Obi-wan warned. “Even missing his leg.”

“Given our time restraints he probably should,” Tholme sighed and turned to Cody. “Are any of your brothers good at handling live ammunition, murderous thugs, and chaotic teenagers?”

“I’ll tell Fox to work with him,” Cody said, tapping his com. “He’ll want to take point on the investigation anyway.”

“Make sure someone accompanies them, so Fox doesn’t kill Vos,” Tarre put in. The gathered Jedi all nodded in agreement.

“We should move our strongest Jedi to Coruscant in preparation for dealing with Palpatine,” Mace said.

“And move the Younglings out,” Shaak said. “If the vode were a trap they were meant for our knights, masters, and padawans, but not the initiates and infants in the creche. What was the Sith’s plan for them?”

“Nothing good,” Fett said gravely, anger and disgust boiling in every Mandalorian in the room. “They need protection. Do we take them to Stewjon as well?”

“That could tip Palpatine off,” Ponds put in. “Or make people think you’re deserting the Republic to join us.”

“Unless fears, we had,” Yoda said thoughtfully. “That unsafe, the temple has become.”

Cody nodded. “That might also give Fox and the Senators cover to investigate. A major threat to the Temple has to warrant a large investigation.”

“It did last time,” Obi-wan agreed, earning curious looks from the vode and Mandalorians. “But what threat can we claim that an external investigation can’t disprove.”

“Xanatos,” Mace answered. “He came and went from the temple for nearly a year to try and kill Yoda before your return from Meldaan flushed him out. It’s conceivable we failed to find all his entry points, as the investigation was called off after his assumed death. His sudden revival, and the removal of Kamino from the archives, are ample reason to do a thorough investigation of our security and to move our vulnerable members out.”

“Wait, do you think he’s the one who removed Kamino?” Wolffe asked, concerned.

“No,” Mace said. “Only Masters have the requisite codes to remove data, so it was likely Dooku.”

“But concerned for our security, we still should be,” Yaddle said, grim. “Extend deep into the under city, the temple does. Though cut off those sections, we have, dangers could they still hold.”

“Infiltrated these levels, Palpatine most likely has,” Yoda agreed. “Check them, we must.”

“Ask Master Sinube to lead the investigation,” Mace added. “His contacts and knowledge of the under city will be invaluable.”

“As for the younglings, there’s an old temple on Stewjon’s lesser moon,” Obi-wan added. “It’s one of our few temples still manned as part of a pilgrimage so it won’t need a great deal of work to make habitable and will share the security of the Vode and Stewjon.”

“And if Palpatine still believes the Vode have their chips he’ll want the jedi near them to spring the trap,” Fett said.

Mace nodded. “And if he supports it the Senate will as well. His cronies are incredibly powerful, which makes sense if they’re complicate.”

“You think some of the senators have knowingly allied themselves to a Sith?” Obi-wan asked skeptically.

“You’ve met Orn Free Taa and Mas Amedda,” Mace pointed out, earning sad nods from the other Jedi. “Unfortunately, it's easy to imagine many in the Senate being swayed by his promises of power and wealth. It will be difficult, after his fall, to separate the complicit from the merely greedy.”

“A task I think may be underway,” Obi-wan added. “I believe the young Mon Mothma of Chandrila has been trying to start a committee investigation into the matter. I will ask Padme and the others their opinion and see if they can bring her into the fold. If possible, they should build a team of clean senators to hold the senate together after Palpatine’s unmasking and arrest.”

“Arrest?” Fett asked, annoyed.

“I very much doubt a Sith Lord will allow himself to be taken alive,” Obi-wan pointed out. “But if we are to prevent rumors of a Jedi coup we must at least try to arrest him.”

“Rumors of the Jedi wanting more political power have been circulating in the Senate for decades,” Koon offered, shacking his head in exasperation. “Likely started by Palpatine himself; he’s been part of several bills that have limited our ability to function without Senate oversight.”

“A public trial is also the easiest way to get the evidence of his playing both sides out to the people,” Ponds offered.

“Indeed,” Koon agreed.

“Well, this seems enough to get started with,” Obi-wan said, nodding at the list. “I think our last task is to finish assigning team leaders.”

Chapter Text

The meeting was through and exhaustive, but there was little time to rest. Everyone prepping for a mission would help ready the Vode for the to Stewjon. Kenobi was going to make the announcement and call on the Alphas and trainers to help organize the cadets. He would also be explaining the FCs and the two Jango Fetts. Jango was not looking forward to that part. Kote and the others had taken it well, but he knew some of his Alphas would be very upset. And Boba deserved to be told face to face.

“Buir!” Omega called as Jango entered the training area Rex had taken her to.

She rushed over to him but pulled up short at the last second. He smiled and opened his arms for her to hug him. She clung tight, soaking up the contact. Nala Se had kept her isolated from the other vode and most of the Kaminoans; it had to have been incredibly lonely.

“You been having fun?” He asked her.

“Mhm,” She said, grinning wide. “Rex got us a text on Stewjon and Echo was reading it.” She gestured back to a group of cadets that had all clambered onto Rex like he was a couch. “Is there really a whole village of houses in trees?”

“Are there?” Jango asked Obi-wan, who had followed him to check on Omega.

“Indeed,” He said happily. “There are several across the planet, including one in Kenobi Territory. My mother runs a camp program for little hunters there each summer. I’ll make sure you’re all signed up once everyone is settled.”

The boys with Rex cheered but made no effort to leave their snuggle pile.

“Can Hunter and Crosshair come too?” Omega asked, referring to some of the vode they pulled from Nala Se’s extra secret lab.

“We can ask them when we visit them later,” Jango promised; the four of them were going through a thorough check up in the med bay. “Before that we’re going to have a meeting with all the vode to tell them what’s happening.”

“Can I help?” She asked excited.

“If you’d like,” He grinned. “You can help Obi-wan here; he’s having a hard time navigating the city.”

“There are no signs,” He protested with a huff. “It’s highly inefficient.”

Omega giggled. “Ok,” She said. “Where will you be?”

Jango felt his heart clench. “I have to go find Boba and-“

“Who’s looking for me?”

They turned to find Boba standing in the doorway. His eyes went wide at seeing Jango, recognizing him, but possibly not enough. Before anyone could speak, Tarre appeared in the hall behind him.

“Boba,” He called, grabbing the boy’s attention.

“Buir,” he called, breaking Jango’s heart. “Who is this? Why does this vode look just like you?”

Sorrow crashed over Tarre’s face. He came over and knelt next to the boy.

“Bob’ika, I’m so sorry,” he said, spotting Rex leading the cadets away and Obi-wan taking Omega to give them space. “There’s no good way to say this. He doesn’t look like me, I was made to look like him.”

Boba’s brow furrowed. “I don’t understand.”

“I’m a vode, Boba,” Tarre explained gently. “Null-2, Tarre Skirata. This is the real Jango Fett.”

Boba opened his mouth, but nothing came out.

“When you were about 3, I messed up,” Jango explained, wishing he could reach out and hug his son. “The Sith found out I was working against them. I was captured and put in Carbonite, only pulled out for them to take samples from. To keep the other verd’e from finding out and rebelling, they used Tarre’s Force abilities to make him think he was me and change his appearance. He’s the one who’s been raising you for the last seven years.”

Tarre gave him a strange look but didn’t get a chance to comment.

“No,” Boba protested weakly. “No, my buir is Jango Fett.”

“Yes,” Jango offered. “And no.”

“NO!” Boba shouted, shaking.

“Bob’ika,” Tarre said, trying to reach out for him.

“No!” He shouted again, pushing him. “I don’t know you! I don’t know either of you! You’re not my buir!” He stormed off, running full tilt down the hall.

“BOBA!” Tarre called, surge to his feet to give chase.

“Wait,” Jango said, grabbing his arm. “Let him go.”

“But-“ Tarre protested.

“He needs time,” Jango told him sadly. “We’ve just destroyed his safety net; he doesn’t know who is any more. I went through something similar when I lost my aliit.”

“I remember,” Tarre confessed, still looking miserable. “It was hell. How did Jaster get you through it?”

“He gave me space,” Jango answered, heart aching for his buir. “Sent me to someone to talk to and let me know he was there once I was ready. It wasn’t fun for either of us, but it was the best he could do. The best we can do.”

“Ok,” Tarre said, refusing to look at Jango. “Ok.”

Manu wasn’t sure about Kamino. It was the exact opposite of Geonosis: wet, clean, organized, wet. There was so much water it was kind of scary. And while it was nice not to worry about dirt, the place was so clean it felt hollow and cold. It was better than where she’d been, but she didn’t want to stay. Manu’s family was all gone so Mama Shmi said she wanted to take care of her. They were going to Mr Kenobi’s home planet, which was supposed to be green.

Until then, Mr Kix said it was fine for her to explore the city. Mr Hardcase was pushing her hover chair to keep her off her splinted ankle and show her the place he grew up. He and Mr Jesse didn’t like to leave her and Mama Shmi alone and Mr Rex came into check on them a lot too; they all felt bad that the evil people took Mama Shmi’s brave son. Manu hoped they found him soon, he was so cool and nice; she hoped he liked her being part of his family.

Mr Hardcase was telling her about the time his brother Popper got stuck in a vent when someone nearly crashed into her chair.

“Woo!” Mr Hardcase yelled, pulling her out of the way. “Boba!?”

The boy who helped save her and mama shmi didn’t stop. He continued down the hall and ducked into door. Manu looked at mr hardcase who was frowning.

“What was that about?” he asked.

“I think he was crying,” manu said. “Should we check on him?”

He nodded and they went to the door. The room beyond reminded her of a classroom, but white and uncomfortable like the rest of the city. Sobbing echoing around the room like a canyon. The boy was curled over a desk in misery, shaking like a leaf.

“Boba?” Manu called from the door. “Can we come in?”

He flinched and looked at them, flushed and startled. “What? Who are you?”

“I’m Manu,” she answered. “You helped Padawan Skywalker rescue me and the others on Geonosis. And this is Mr Hardcase.”

Boba rolled his eyes, whipping his face. “I know him,” he huffed.

“Really?” Mr Hardcase asked, surprised as he wheeled over Manu next to him.

“Yeah,” Boba sniffed. “You hang out with Rex all the time, Alpha-17’s favorite captain.”

“Rex is his favorite?” Hardcase asked skeptically. “He beats him into the mat when they spar.”

“Duh,” Boba said, rolling his eyes. “That’s cause he wants Rex to come back alive. If he doesn’t care he doesn’t push you as hard.”

“That explains why Cody is always limping after they train,” Mr Hardcase mumbled to himself. “We came to make sure you were ok.”

Boba scowled at the wall. “I’m fine.”

“Your face says otherwise,” Manu observed. “Wana talk about it?”

Boba’s lip wobbled. He tried to hold onto his scowl, but it soon dissolved. He cried. He cried hard, curling in on himself. Manu tentatively placed a hand on his arm. He was trembling and leaned into her touch. She gently pulled him into her side, curling a lekku around him too. Mr Hardcase placed his hand in Boba’s and the boy clung tight.

“He’s a fake,” Boba sobbed, shaking. “They stole him and sent back a fake.”

“Who?” Manu asked softly.

“My Buir,” Boba choked.

Mr Hardcase’s eyes went wide as saucers. “The prime?”

Boba sobbed and nodded. “They put him in carbonite and made one of the Nulls in his place,” He choked. “When I was 3.”

Mr Hardcase opened and closed his mouth like a fish. He didn’t know what to say. Manu wasn’t sure either, but they were saved by his com chirping. He pulled it out with his free hand, not letting Boba go. He read the message with a frown before looking at Boba, thoughtful.

“Boba,” Mr Hardcase said gently. “They’ve sent out a search for you. I know you probably don’t want to see…most of them, but I think someone should check on you.”

Manu gave him a pointed look.

“I mean someone who can help,” He corrected. “Lady Skywalker and Jesse are nearby. Can I have them come?”

Boba’s sobs were quite, but he was still trembling. He nodded. Gently, Mr Hardcase pulled his hand away and left the room. Boba leaned harder into Manu who started to hum. She didn’t know the words, Mama Shmi said it was unsafe to sing while caged, but she’d hum while holding Manu. It calmed her down when she cried, and it seemed to help Boba too.

A few moments later the door opened, and Mama Shmi entered with Mr Hadcase and Mr Jesse. She came right over and knelt down. She took Manu’s hand and gave it a squeeze, a proud smile on her face as she gave an approving nod. Manu smiled back. They both turned their attention to Boba.

“Hello again, Boba,” Mama Shmi said softly, putting a hand on his shaking arm. “Obi-wan told me what’s happened. You must be heart broken.”

He pulled from Manu and collapsed into her arms. Mama Shmi didn’t hesitate to fold herself around him, putting herself between him and the world. Mr Hardcase came to sit beside Manu while Jesse joined Mama Shmi on the floor. They were all positioned to protect Boba as he fell apart.

As he sobbed into Mama Shmi’s shoulder she started to sing. It was quiet but sweet, in a language Manu didn’t know but had heard the older slaves talk in. It was the lullaby she hummed for Manu, so she started to hum along. It was a simple melody so Mr Hardcase and Mr Jesse joined in soon after. Slowly, very slowly, Boba’s tears lessened. Mama Shmi finished her song and Boba finally pulled back.

He sniffed and rubbed at his puffy eyes. “Thank you,” he croaked at Shmi, then nodding at the others and getting smiles back.

“We’re happy to help,” Shmi promised, rubbing his back as he tucked himself into her side next to Jesse. “We all need to look out for each other, especially when we’re hurting.” She squeezed him tight. “I know this is scary. Something you thought would never change, something you thought was the absolute truth, is suddenly gone. It’s terrible, it hurts.”

Boba sniffed. “I hate it.”

She smiled sympathetically. “We all do,” She told him. “But it isn’t the end. The planets turn, stars shine, and we rise with the morning. You will get through this, but you don’t have to do it alone. You have your brothers, the trainers, and us,” She nodded at the others. “Manu, Rex, Jesse, Hardcase, Obi-wan, and I. We’re here for you. And, when you’re ready, your fathers.” Boba scowled at the ground, but Shmi pulled him closer to sooth him. “They know you need time and space, but they’re both there when you need them. When you feel up to it, they’d like to talk, but only when you’re ready. Okay?”

He chewed on his lip, troubled, but soon nodded. “Okay.”

“Good,” She said with a smile, patting his head. “Until then, you can stay with one of the trainers,” he shook his head. “Then how about us?” He nodded into her shoulder. “Okay. We’ll get some things from your room and then you can stay in our’s.”

“We’re moving into Rex’s bunk room since it’s always been mostly empty,” Mr Hardcase told him. “We can have a vode pile.”

Boba perked up at that. “I never got to join those, they always looked cozy.”

“Is that like a cuddle puddle?” Manu asked, making Boba snort at the name.

“Probably,” Shmi chuckled as Jesse typed on his com.

“I’m letting everyone know he’s staying with us,” He informed them.

Hardcase frowned. “Rex may not like this.”

“And?” Jesse asked, raising an unimpressed brow. “Shmi’buir is in charge.”

She chuckled, reaching over to pat his head. “I have such good children.”

Chapter Text

The second assembly of the vode was a very different affair from the first. The most obvious difference was the younglings in front, a riot of curiosity and excitement as they watched the trainers and Jedi prepare on the platform. They'd originally stood at attention in perfectly spaced rows and columns, until it became clear there wasn't enough room for all to Vode so Sheek Ti encouraged them all to relax and share space. That ended up with large cuddle piles amongst all the ages, with an Alpha or CC buried in the center of the younglings; it was very cute.

They were still getting comfortable when Mij arrived with the Medics, the teens they'd pulled from the secret lab, and an old male human Obi-wan had spotted before, but hadn't been able to talk to. While the Medics dispersed to their units, the old man shepherded the teens toward the front where Rex was buried in younglings. He spoke to Rex, seemingly introducing the teens, and in seconds the Domino squad were wiggling free of the others to grab onto them. They got them to sit on the edge of the pile and tried crawling into their laps.

Crosshair grabbed Cutup by the scruff and transferred him, giggling delightedly, to Wrecker who already had Droidbait and Fives hanging from his back. Tech had been holding a data pad Echo was instantly enthralled with and eager listened to what ever Tech was telling him; the teen was confused by this. Hunter looked completely lost as Hevy looked him dead in the eye while crawling into his lap; it was very strange.

All four looked very uncomfortable until they noticed Omega waving at them. Obi-wan had taken her to see them while Jango and Tarre spoke to Boba. Apparently, they'd never met her despite her always being present during Nala Se's experiments on the boys; horrible, controlling woman. But they didn't hesitate to welcome another non-regulation clone as they'd always been singled out for their mutations. They'd been less certain about Obi-wan, but that wasn’t surprising.

The teens waved at her, smiling shyly. Domino squad also waved at her, as they'd decided to adopt her into their squad when Rex stumbled on them sneaking out of their barracks, again. They'd been fascinated to meet a girl around their age and when they learned she was a clone too Rex had completely lost control and barely shepherded them into the training room Obi-wan and Jango found them. Omega had almost cried at their easy acceptance and happily declared herself a Domino now. Jango was likely going to have to adopt the Dominos and the teens to keep his daughter happy. Obi-wan would be helping, naturally....wait...

Echo said something to the teens and they instantly relaxed. It seemed their connection to Omega eased their minds. Omega was very happy, with a tinge of envy.

"You can go sit with them, if you like," Obi-wan told her.

"But Buir said to be your guide," she reminded him, uncertain.

"And you're doing a splendid job," he assured her. "But I'm not going anywhere until the meeting is over. Go and sit with them, and then come find me when the meeting is over, alright?"

She hesitated for a moment. "Thank you, Obi'buir," she said, hugging him tightly before darting of before he could correct her. Oh well, she was also one of his charges, wasn't she? He and Jango could figure out titles later.

She hopped down the steps and darted between the cuddle piles in a flash. The Dominos cheered when she appeared and the teens greeted her too. She quickly plopped herself into Crosshair's empty lap, smiling up at him. He scowled for a moment, then let out the long-suffering sigh of an angsty teen before folding his arms around her. She was a nova of joy, hugging his arms back and chatting animatedly with the others. They were painfully sweet.

"Knight Kenobi," Lai Wo called, drawing Obi-wan's attention away.

She was standing with the old man that had brought the teens in. Up close now he could suddenly tell he was a vode. His back was bent, his limbs withered, and face wrinkled, but those were vode eyes, bright with intelligence and quiet curiosity. He had the calm, soothing presence Obi-wan associated with elder crechmasters and kindly grandparents, including the low grade chronic pain often found in the elderly. Obi-wan instantly liked him, and made a note to have him see Madam Che; he was sure she could ease many, if not all, of his aches.

"This is Alpha 99," Lai Wo introduced. "Lama Su placed him in charge of the maintenance staff. His understanding of the facility, protocols, and staff has been integral in holding the city. He missed the earlier meeting to see to the arrest of trainers Dred Priest and Isabet Rau, Death Watch affiliated Mandalorians who intended to attack you and the other Jedi.”

"Then it is an honor to meet you, Alpha-99," Obi-wan said, bowing to the old vode. “And I must thank you for protecting my people.”

“The honor is mine, Knight Kenobi,” Alpha 99 said, bowing back as much as he could. “You’ve saved my brothers by keeping us out of the war, it is only right we look out for your family as well.”

“Then we’ll look after each other from now on,” He said, offering his hand in a Mandalorian handshake. “And please, call me Obi-wan.”

“99,” he replied, linking risks and radiating pleasure at Obi-wan’s understanding of the greeting. “Most around here don’t like their numbers, but Alpha-17 and I have always felt they helped remind everyone we were the eldest, so they could always come to us, and there was no shame in not having a name.”

“I’m sure they’ve appreciated that,” Obi-wan said, sensing the deep regard and respect the other vode felt towards the old man. “Now, I hate to ask, but your condition…”

99 chuckled, unbothered and perhaps expecting it. “I was decanted with a mutation that caused me to age even faster than my brothers.”

“It was easily corrected,” Lai Wo said, sounding sour. “But Taun We elected to allow it to progress so she should observe the affects, despite protests from Lord Fett, Medic Gilimar, and several of her fellow scientists.”

“99?”

Fett come walking over with Tarre and Skirata. 99 seemed unsurprised at seeing two Jango Fetts, but he wouldn’t be. From what Lai Wo had said and Obi-wan’s own experience with service workers, he imagined 99 was the most well informed being on the planet. He’d likely known most everything discussed in the meeting before it happened.

“It’s good to see you up and about, Prime,” he said, smilingly warmly at the man. “And good to have you back, Tarre.”

“Thanks, 99,” Tarre said, smiling gently.

“That cold hearted witch really left you to suffer,” Jango said, looking heart broken. “I’m so sorry, 99.”

“Only one person’s fault now,” he said, shaking his head and taking Jango’s hand. “And she’ll soon get what she deserves. Right, Lai Wo?”

She nodded. “Taun We is amongst the first who will go to trial once the new government has stabilized. She is the perfect example of the dark depths our current philosophies can take us, and what we must endeavor to prevent in the future.”

“Well said,” Skirata said, earning nods of agreement from the others.

“I still want to fix what I can, 99,” Jango said, determined. “Once things calm down, I’ll pay for whatever treatment we can find to help you. No matter the cost.”

“No need,” Obi-wan assured him. “The Medicore have one of their primary care facilities on Stewjon. You’ll receive the best care available in the outer rim, free of charge. I also understand they recently acquired a Medicos[1], which should allow them to straighten your back and cure any arthritis. My great aunt won’t stop singing it’s praises.”

99’s face was slack with shock. “Straighten…?” he breathed, hands trembling with emotion. “I’ll be able to stand straight again? They’ll do that?”

“They’ll insist on it,” Obi-wan assured him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“We’re going to take care you boys from now on,” Jango assured him. “All of you. Even that stubborn bastard Alpha-17.”

99 laughed, startled. “He got that from you, Prime.”

“And don’t I know it,” Jango sighed. “Well, I think it’s about time we get this started.” He gestured for 99 to join the line of Jedi, trainers, and Vode on the platform; the leaders.

99 gulped, overwhelmed. Then he stood up as best he could and walked over, Cody and the others radiating pleasure and pride as he took his place with them. Obi-wan turned to smile at Jango, sensing his pride and pain at seeing 99 with the other vode. When he caught Obi-wan staring he flashed a warm smile and went to stand with Mace near the front.

Obi-wan took a moment to center himself. He released the heat caused by that smile into the Force, ignoring the trill of amusement from Mace and Yoda. Calm, and with the last of the vode settled, Obi-wan stepped forward to begin the meeting.

[1] Medicos: Bone Healer; I frankensteined the Latin words for Healer (Medicus) and Bone (Os)