There is Nothing Money Can’t Buy

The days blurred together.

Master Fay immersed herself in the Archives, working with Master Nu and Master Allie. They searched tirelessly for a way to counteract the Void Brand. Fay often reviewed ancient records, cross-referencing with Sith lore. Allie contributed her medical expertise, analyzing the complex results of Jaden's scans. Fay rarely left the Archives except to meditate, her thoughts consumed by the endless information she was consuming day after day.

Aubrie and Zule stayed with Padmé after requesting permission to remain. Padmé agreed without hesitation. Aubrie spent much of her time with Jaden, horrified by the Void Brand's effects. She wanted to join Fay in searching for a solution, but the Council denied her access, citing her departure from the Order. Frustrated but determined, she occupied herself learning more about piloting and ship maintenance. When not working, she stayed close to Jaden or spent time with Ahsoka, who she often visited to check on her friend. Zule withdrew into herself. She stayed in her room most days, coming out only for meals. The decision to leave the Order weighed heavily on her. She replayed memories of her late Master, wondering if she had failed him by walking away. The guilt gnawed at her, isolating her from the others despite their efforts to include her.

Jaden struggled at first, but his inability to hold onto anger or resentment dulled his emotional response. He adjusted quickly, spending time with Aubrie or Padmé. He and Padmé grew closer, sharing breakfasts and dinners. Their conversations ranged from the intricacies of the trial to stories about Naboo. Padmé even took him to one of Coruscant's rare sanctuaries, a sealed woodland preserve. The towering trees and scattered wildlife fascinated Jaden. He spent hours there, feeling a deep connection to the nature there, he even considered not leaving.

Vaylin, Padmé's assistant, became another person Jaden liked having around. She was clumsy but kind, always eager to help. When Padmé was busy, Vaylin took it upon herself to guide Jaden around Coruscant. She showed him hidden gems in the city—old plazas, quiet cafes, and even forgotten districts where the architecture retained traces of Coruscant's ancient past. Jaden learned she came from a planet in the Outer Rim, where opportunities were scarce. Her mother had been an old friend of the Chancellor and had pleaded for him to secure a position for her daughter, which he had done. Vaylin shared these details shyly, her demeanor endearing.

Despite everything, life continued. Jaden adjusted to his new reality, though the shadow of the Void Brand loomed over him. Fay's occasional updates kept him informed, but her progress was slow. He also had the trial to think about, where his very freedom was at risk.

___________________________

Finally weeks after the medical scan, Jaden and Padmé boarded a shuttle bound for the Jedi Temple. Fay had sent word that they might have found a way to remove the Void Brand. The message carried no guarantees but enough hope to bring Jaden out of his usual detachment. The pilot greeted them as they entered the shuttle. Jaden recognized him—it was the same man who had flown him to the Temple previously. The pilot greeted them as they stepped aboard, giving a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Back to the Jedi Temple, huh? Guess it's becoming a regular spot for you."

Jaden gave him a glance but said nothing, taking a seat near the front. Padmé followed, settling beside him and scrolling through a datapad.

As the shuttle ascended, the pilot glanced back. "Lot of people talking about you these days," he said casually, tapping at the controls. "You don't see many folks take on the Jedi Council and walk away free."

Jaden frowned slightly. "It wasn't exactly a duel. Just a misunderstanding."

"Misunderstanding or not, people noticed. Word's spreading you've got guts. Even heard some Republic officers saying they wouldn't mind having you on their ship." He chuckled, though his tone seemed forced. "Guess fame works in funny ways."

Padmé looked up from her datapad, her expression slightly displeased. "Jaden isn't interested in fame, and I don't think discussing his personal matters is appropriate."

The pilot raised his hands briefly in surrender. "Fair enough, my lady. Just making small talk. Can't blame a guy for being curious."

Jaden stayed silent, his gaze shifting to the cityscape outside. The pilot's tone was conversational, but something about the way he kept steering the topic back to Jaden felt deliberate. He caught a flicker of something in the man's reflection on the glass—a tension beneath the surface.

"So," the pilot continued, his voice light, "what's next after the Temple? Heading back to the Senate District, or is there another grand adventure lined up?"

Padmé answered before Jaden could. "That's not something we're going to discuss."

The pilot nodded, his grin thin. "Right, of course. Tight schedule, lots of important things. I get it." He adjusted the shuttle's heading slightly, the controls clicking under his hands. "Still, I'd say watch your back. Like I said before not everyone appreciates people shaking up the status quo. Especially not on Coruscant."

Jaden's eyes narrowed slightly at the comment, but he kept his focus on the view outside. The man was hiding something. He wasn't sure what, but the pilot's overly casual demeanor didn't sit right with him. The rest of the ride was quiet, the pilot not attempting further conversation. The shuttle began its descent toward the Jedi Temple, the familiar spires and landing platforms coming into view.

As the shuttle touched down, the pilot opened the hatch, turning to them with another smile. "Alright, here we are. Good luck with whatever it is you've got going on in there."

Jaden stepped off first, scanning the landing platform briefly before walking toward the Temple entrance, Padmé followed.

The pilot lingered in the shuttle, watching them disappear into the Temple. His smile faded the moment they were out of sight. He exhaled sharply and muttered to himself, "Soon enough." Then he closed the hatch and accessed his communications.

Inside the Temple, Jaden and Padmé were met by a Temple Guard, who bowed slightly before speaking. "Master Fay is expecting you. This way."

...

The pilot sat in the cockpit, waiting for confirmation that Jaden and Padmé were inside the Temple. His fingers tapped impatiently on the console as he watched the two figures disappear into the entrance. He opened a private comm channel, keeping his voice low.

"They've entered the Temple," he said, addressing the person on the other end. "No one suspects anything."

The reply came immediately. "Good. Make sure you grab them both. An evac transport will arrive at your location once you signal. Alert the others to begin the attack."

The pilot hesitated. "Understood, but I don't see why I didn't just take them while they were still in the shuttle. Would've saved a lot of effort."

A heavy sigh came through the comm before the voice snapped back, filled with disdain. "That's a Senate transport, you idiot. It's rigged to monitor all passengers and tracked in real time. The moment you veered off course, Coruscant Security would've had gunships on you faster than you could react."

The pilot scowled, his annoyance clear. "Alright, alright, I get it."

The voice on the other end continued. "Don't screw this up, Darren. You're being paid enough to buy your own capital ship, and I even provided you with equipment specifically designed to handle Jedi. If you fail, the consequences won't be pleasant."

Darren smirked, shifting in his seat. "I won't fail. I'll grab them both, kicking and screaming if I have to. Any Jedi who try to stop me will end up dead."

The comm went silent as the connection was cut. Darren stood, pulling off his transport uniform to reveal flexible combat armor underneath. He reached for his helmet, its blue visor gleaming faintly as he slid it into place. The suit's joints adjusted to his movements as he flexed his arms, grabbing a compact blaster from his side holster. He exited the shuttle, his footsteps echoing softly against the landing pad. Without a moment's hesitation, Darren approached the edge of the platform. He crouched, then flipped off the side, grabbing the edge as he descended. He swung himself smoothly onto a lower platform, his boots landing with barely a sound.

As he moved, Darren pressed a button on his wrist gauntlet. A deafening explosion ripped through the air behind him, obliterating the shuttle in a fiery burst. The blast shook the surrounding area, sending debris and flames scattering across the platform. The shockwave echoed through the Temple spires. Jedi Temple Guards stationed nearby immediately reacted. Their voices rang out as they rushed toward the explosion, calling for reinforcements. Several Jedi in the vicinity turned their attention to the commotion, moving swiftly toward the smoldering wreckage to assess the damage.

Darren slipped further into the shadows, using the confusion to his advantage. He moved through an access hatch, descending into a maintenance corridor that ran beneath the main structure. His employer had bribed one of the temple maintenance workers to deactivate the sensors in this hatch, but only for five minutes, any longer and he'd be triggering the alarm. 

The sounds of boots pounding above reassured him that the explosion had drawn attention away from his movements. Darren smirked behind his visor, knowing the distraction had worked perfectly. Activating another button on his gauntlet, he sent a coded signal. The attack on the Jedi Temple was about to begin.

___________________________

Jaden and Padmé followed two Temple Guards through the long corridors of the Jedi Temple, their boots echoing faintly against the polished floors. Jaden's expression was contemplative, his hands tucked into his pockets.

"Are you nervous?" Padmé asked, breaking the silence. Her gaze searched his face for any sign of discomfort.

"Not really," Jaden replied after a pause. "I don't know if that's a good or bad thing, though."

Padmé frowned slightly but placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Master Fay has worked tirelessly to find a solution. She wouldn't have sent for us unless she believed this could work."

"I know," he said. "I just... I wonder what kind of person I'll be when the brand is removed. I've spent my entire life this way. What if I disappear completely when it's gone?"

"Don't think of it as losing something," Padmé said, rubbing his arm gently. "Think of it as gaining everything you should've had all along."

Her words made him smile, and he nodded. "Thanks," he said quietly. "And thanks for coming."

Padmé smiled back, her voice softer now. "I've enjoyed the time we've spent together since we first met. I consider you a friend, Jaden, and I hope you see me the same way."

"I do," Jaden said without hesitation.

They approached the entrance to the medical wing. The guards stood aside as the doors slid open to reveal Aubrie standing in the waiting area. The moment she spotted Jaden, she ran over and hugged him tightly.

"Are you okay?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

"I'm fine," Jaden reassured her. He patted her back lightly. "Really."

As they broke apart, a small droid beeped loudly and climbed onto Jaden's shoulder. He smiled, glancing at SD-8. "Thanks, buddy," he said, scratching the top of the droid's dome as it chirped happily.

The doors to a private room opened, and Master Fay emerged. She looked tired, dark shadows under her eyes, but her expression was calm and focused. Her gaze landed on Jaden, and she gave him a small nod before turning to Padmé and Aubrie.

"This is as far as you two can go," she said gently. "Jaden will come with me now."

Aubrie hesitated, her hand hovering near Jaden's arm. "You'll be okay?" she asked, her voice quiet.

"I'll be fine," Jaden said, smiling at her. "Don't worry."

Padmé gave him an encouraging look. "We'll be here when you're done."

Jaden nodded and followed Master Fay into the next room. The air inside felt different—thicker, heavier. Four Jedi were waiting, Masters Allie, Plo Koon, Kit Fisto, and Shaak Ti. They stood near an advanced medical bed surrounded by instruments. The room was dimly lit, the hum of machinery filling the silence.

Master Fay introduced them. "You remember these Masters from your earlier meeting with the Council."

Jaden nodded. "I do." His gaze shifted between them. "Why are they here?"

Fay clasped her hands in front of her, her tone serious. "This procedure is complex and dangerous. Each of them has a specific role in ensuring its success."

Master Allie stepped forward, her expression neutral. "Removing a Void Brand is no simple task," she said. "It's a Sith technique designed to retaliate against any attempt to remove it. When purged, the brand spreads rapidly, causing catastrophic damage to the brain. That's why no one has survived such a procedure before."

Jaden's brow furrowed. "So how do you stop it?"

Master Fay took over. "Master Allie and Master Shaak Ti will be responsible for healing and purging the brand. They'll work carefully to extract its roots."

"And what about you three?" Jaden asked, nodding toward Fay, Plo Koon, and Kit Fisto.

Fay's expression grew somber. "The core of the brand is deeply embedded in your mind. As the purge begins, it will attempt to spread and destroy everything it touches. Master Plo Koon, Master Fisto, and I are very proficient in the mind arts and will isolate and contain the brand's core while its roots are removed. Once the roots are gone, we'll destroy the core itself."

Jaden absorbed her words, his gaze flicking to the two Temple Guards standing silently in the corner. "And them?" he asked.

Fay hesitated, then smiled sheepishly. "To hold you down."

Jaden raised an eyebrow.

Fay's smile faded, replaced by concern. "I won't lie to you, Jaden. This procedure will be painful. It might be the worst thing you've ever experienced. There's also a significant risk that something could go wrong... and you might not survive."

Jaden looked down, his thoughts racing. Part of him wanted to back out. The brand had defined his life in so many ways, and he'd survived this long with it. Was it worth risking his life for a change he might not even recognize? But another part of him—small but resolute—refused to let him walk away. He wanted what the brand had stolen from him. He wanted the chance to know who he really was, even if it meant enduring whatever came next.

He clenched his fists and met Fay's gaze. "I'm ready," he said firmly. "Let's do it."

Fay smiled softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you for trusting us, Jaden. Lie down so we can begin."

Jaden climbed onto the medical bed, its cold surface sending a faint chill through him. The room grew quieter as the Masters prepared. Allie adjusted the scanning instruments while Shaak Ti gathered supplies for the Force-guided healing process. Plo Koon and Kit Fisto stood on either side of Fay, their expressions calm as they seemed to be meditating.

"Try to relax," Fay said, her voice gentle. "We'll guide you through this."

...

Padmé and Aubrie waited in silence outside the medical wing. The tension between them was palpable as they sat on a bench near the sealed doors. Padmé kept glancing at the corridor leading to the operating room, her expression calm but her fingers twitching slightly in her lap. Aubrie, however, was restless. She shifted in her seat, her hands clenched into fists. Then it came—a muffled scream, raw and anguished, cutting through the corridor. Aubrie shot to her feet, her eyes wide with panic.

"That's Jaden!" she said, already moving toward the door.

Padmé quickly stood and grabbed her arm. "You can't go in there," she said firmly.

"I can help!" Aubrie snapped, struggling against her grip. "I'm a healer! I can do something!"

Padmé tightened her hold. "You can't interrupt the procedure. If we interfere, we could make things worse."

Aubrie turned to her, her expression one of pure frustration. "Worse than this? He's screaming in there! What if they're hurting him? What if—"

"Aubrie!" Padmé's sharp tone cut through her words. She looked the younger woman directly in the eyes. "We have to trust them. I know this is hard, but you rushing in there won't help him."

Another scream echoed through the hall, louder this time. Aubrie flinched, her breathing quickening. "I can't just stand here," she said, her voice breaking. "What if something goes wrong? What if he needs me?"

Padmé placed both hands on Aubrie's shoulders, steadying her. "I know how much you care about him, but you can't let your emotions cloud your judgment. He needs them to focus right now. If you go in, you could jeopardize everything."

Aubrie clenched her jaw, tears welling in her eyes. The screaming continued, each one more heart-wrenching than the last. "He's been through enough," she muttered, her voice trembling. "Why does it always have to be him?"

Before Padmé could respond, a massive explosion shook the walls around them. The sound was deafening, and the floor beneath them trembled violently. Dust fell from the ceiling as the lights flickered. The alarms blared to life, filling the air with their piercing wail.

"What was that?" Padmé asked, her voice rising as she turned toward the doors.

Aubrie shook her head, her expression shifting from distress to focus. "I don't know," she said quickly.

The two Temple Guards who had been stationed nearby sprang into action, rushing out of the room toward the source of the commotion. One of them shouted into his commlink, but his words were drowned out by the blaring alarms.

Padmé turned to Aubrie, her tone urgent. "Stay here. We need to make sure Jaden is safe."

Aubrie shook her head again, her determination returning. "I need to know what's going on. If this is an attack, we could all be in danger."

"Aubrie, wait!" Padmé called after her, but Aubrie was already moving. The younger woman's Jedi training kicked in as she disappeared down the corridor, instincts she'd honed on Jabiim forced her to seek out the source of the conflict. Padmé clenched her fists, her mind racing. She glanced back toward the sealed doors of the medical wing, torn between staying and following. The alarms continued to blare, and the sound of boots echoed faintly from deeper within the Temple. Whatever had caused the explosion, it wasn't over yet.

...

Aubrie sprinted through the corridors of the Jedi Temple, her breaths heavy but steady. The alarms screamed around her, blending with the distant sound of explosions. She passed groups of younglings huddled together, guarded by instructors who guided them deeper into the Temple. Workers ran in the opposite direction, shouting warnings and ducking as debris occasionally fell from above. The ground rumbled beneath her feet, and Aubrie stumbled, catching herself against the wall. The tremor was stronger this time, shaking the surrounding structure. She pushed forward, her focus narrowing as she turned a corner and saw Temple staff rushing toward her.

"What's going on?" she asked one of them as they passed, but they didn't stop to answer. Aubrie didn't wait for a response. She continued down the hall, her boots sliding slightly on loose dust and debris.

As she approached a large window, the sight outside made her stomach drop. Starships hovered low above the Temple, their weapons firing in bursts at the building's exterior. The shielding that usually protected the structure was down, allowing the cannon fire to tear through stone and durasteel. Smoke rose from the damaged courtyards, and the sound of blaster fire carried into the halls. Mercenaries flooded the Temple grounds, accompanied by squads of combat droids. They moved in tight formations, armed with heavy weaponry that overwhelmed the defenders. Jedi fought back, their lightsabers flashing in the haze, but the attackers had the advantage of numbers and firepower.

Aubrie clenched her jaw and turned away from the window, forcing herself to focus. The younglings, the staff—everyone in the Temple was in danger. She picked up her pace, heading toward the main courtyard.

Turning another corner, she came across a group of younglings backed against the wall. Their small faces were pale with fear, and a lone Jedi Padawan stood between them and a squad of mercenaries. The Padawans green lightsaber deflected the incoming shots, but he was clearly overwhelmed. A bolt struck his shoulder, and he dropped to one knee.

Aubrie didn't hesitate. Her lightsaber ignited with a snap-hiss, the blue blade casting light in the dim corridor as she stepped forward. She positioned herself in front of the younglings, deflecting the mercenaries' shots with a flourish.

"Get them to safety!" she called to the Knight.

The injured Jedi nodded, ushering the children away as Aubrie advanced. She deflected another volley of blaster bolts, closing the gap between her and the attackers. Her blade cut through the first mercenary's weapon, then his chest. A second mercenary swung at her with a vibroblade, but she sidestepped, her lightsaber slicing cleanly through his arm. The remaining mercenaries hesitated, their confidence faltering. Aubrie stretched out her hand, the Force sending them crashing into the wall. She turned to ensure the younglings had escaped before moving on.

The distant sounds of blaster fire and explosions grew louder as she neared the main courtyard. When she arrived, the scale of the assault became clear. The once-pristine courtyard was unrecognizable, littered with debris and the bodies of Jedi, mercenaries, and droids. Starships hovered above, their cannons firing. Heavy weapons positioned around the courtyard fired into the Temple, reducing walls and columns to rubble.

Aubrie spotted a group of mercenaries planting an explosive near the base of a staircase. She sprinted toward them, reigniting her lightsaber as she approached. The mercenaries turned at the sound, raising their weapons, but Aubrie was already on them. Her blade cut through the first attacker's rifle, then slashed across his chest. She deflected a shot back at the second, dropping him instantly. The remaining mercenary reached for the explosive, but Aubrie used the Force to hurl him backward. She quickly deactivated the device before Blaster fire drew her attention to another corner of the courtyard, where a group of younglings was pinned down behind a broken pillar. A squad of droids advanced on them, their blasters aimedwnd firing. Aubrie dashed forward, placing herself between the children and the attackers. She deflected the incoming shots, her blade moving in small arcs, before launching herself at the droids.

Her lightsaber cut through the first two droids easily, their metal bodies sparking as they fell. She ducked under a shot from the third, thrusting her blade through its chest. The remaining droids tried to flank her, but she reached out with the Force, pulling one into the other and slicing through them both in one motion.

"Go!" she shouted to the younglings. "Find a safe place and stay together!"

They nodded and ran, their small figures disappearing into the smoke-filled halls. Aubrie turned back to the battle, her grip tightening on her lightsaber as she scanned the battle. A nearby explosion sent her sprawling to the ground. She rolled to her feet, coughing as dust filled the air. A mercenary team had set up a heavy repeater at the far end of the courtyard, its bolts tearing through the Jedi defenses. Aubrie raised her hand, calling on the Force to rip the weapon from its mount. The mercenaries scattered as the repeater spun on the ground and overloaded.

Before she could catch her breath, a new opponent emerged. A mercenary clad in dark armor and wielding an electrostaff approached. Aubrie sized him up quickly, noting his controlled stance and calm demeanor. He wasn't like the others, this one was clearly highly trained.

He struck first, his electrostaff crackling as it swung toward her. Aubrie blocked the attack, the impact sending a jolt through her arms. He pressed the assault, his strikes quick, much more than she expected. Aubrie countered, her lightsaber flashing as she deflected his blows. The duel moved across the battlefield, each of them testing the other's defenses. Aubrie managed to graze his shoulder with a quick slash, but he responded by sweeping her legs. She jumped back, narrowly avoiding the strike. He followed up with a spinning attack, and she barely managed to block in time.

The mercenary feinted left, then struck low, catching her off guard. His staff hit her side, the shock causing her to stumble. He seized the opportunity, disarming her with a powerful strike that sent her lightsaber spinning across the ground. Aubrie stared at him. The mercenary raised his electrostaff for the killing blow. She reacted instinctively, extending her hand and unleashing a powerful Force push. The mercenary flew backward, crashing through a shattered window. His scream faded as he disappeared below.

Aubrie sprinted across the debris-strewn courtyard, her lightsaber humming as she deflected blaster fire from the mercenaries and droids. The sounds of battle were deafening—explosions, the hum of lightsabers, and the sharp staccato of blasters filled the air. She dropped low as a group of droids targeted her, sliding under one's legs and slashing through its chassis as she moved. It crumpled behind her in a shower of sparks.

Blaster bolts zipped past her head, one grazing her arm as she rolled behind a pile of rubble for cover. She reached out with the Force, pulling a large chunk of debris into the air and hurling it toward a squad of mercenaries. The impact sent them scattering, but she didn't stop to check if they were finished. She dashed forward, cutting down another droid as it raised its blaster toward her.

Ahead, she saw Anakin Skywalker in the thick of the fight. His blue lightsaber moved in powerful swipes as he pushed through the enemy ranks. Droids fell in pieces around him, and mercenaries stumbled backward, firing wildly as he advanced. Aubrie made her way toward him, cutting down another pair of attackers before finally reaching his side.

"Anakin!" she called, her voice barely audible over the sound of blaster fire. "How did this happen? Where's Coruscant security?"

Anakin didn't look at her as he deflected a shot back at a mercenary, dropping the man instantly. "I don't know," he said, his voice loud with frustration. "Communications out of the Temple are being jammed."

"That shouldn't be possible!" she replied, slashing through the arm of a droid that lunged at her.

"Tell that to them," Anakin said. He stepped forward, blocking a strike from a mercenary wielding an electrostaff. The man's attack was strong, but Anakin countered easily, twisting his saber to disarm him. He slammed his metal fist into the man's stomach, shattering his armor and leaving him doubled over on the ground. Anakin turned, extending his hand toward a group of mercenaries firing from cover. Their weapons flew from their hands, pulled by the Force. He leapt into the air, twisting mid-jump as blaster bolts streaked toward him. He deflected the shots, his saber cutting through the air, and landed in front of the group. With a sweep of his arm, he unleashed a wave of Force, sending them sprawling.

Aubrie moved to cover his flank, cutting down a mercenary who tried to flank him. "This is coordinated," she said, blocking another volley of shots. "They knew exactly where to hit us."

Anakin didn't respond immediately, too focused on repelling the next wave of attackers. He grabbed a droid by its head with the Force, crushing it before tossing it into a group of mercenaries. "It's more than that," he said finally. "They needed to have had help from inside the temple, and in Coruscant security."

Jedi Knights and Padawans joined their position, forming a defensive line against the advancing enemy. Aubrie fell into step with them, her lightsaber cutting through the air as she deflected bolts and slashed at the attackers. The mercenaries kept coming, their numbers seemingly endless. Anakin vaulted over a pile of rubble, landing behind a group of mercenaries who had pinned down a pair of Padawans. He cut through two of them before they realized he was there, then yanked the remaining attackers forward with the Force, knocking them to the ground.

Aubrie covered him as more droids approached. She reached out with the Force, grabbing one and smashing it into another. A mercenary took aim at her, but she closed the distance before he could fire, slicing through his blaster and forcing him to retreat.

"More incoming!" a Jedi shouted, pointing toward the sky.

Aubrie looked up to see dozens of drop pods streaking toward the Temple. They landed with loud crashes, the impact shaking the ground. The doors burst open, and more mercenaries poured out, their weapons blazing as they joined the fray.

"We're going to be overwhelmed," Aubrie said.

Anakin's expression hardened. "Then we hold them as long as we can."

He turned to the other Jedi, raising his lightsaber. "Form a line! Protect the wounded! Don't let them push any further!" The Jedi moved to comply, their sabers igniting as they rallied to Anakin's position. Aubrie joined them, her resolve hardening as the next wave approached.

...

Jaden's body convulsed on the medical bed, his teeth clenched as a scream tore from his throat. His hands gripped the edges of the bed tightly, his knuckles pale against the strain. Black blood dripped from his eyes, nose, and ears, staining the white sheets beneath him. The room trembled slightly, a faint echo of his raw agony rippling through the Force. Master Fay stood nearby, her hands outstretched as she concentrated, her calm demeanor strained. Sweat dripped from her brow, but her focus didn't waver. Beside her, Kit Fisto and Shaak Ti worked in tandem, their minds linked with Jaden's as they contained the Void Brand's malicious tendrils. Master Allie stood at the head of the bed, her hands hovering over Jaden's forehead as she directed the healing energy of the Force.

The Temple shook violently as another explosion rocked the outside, but none of them flinched. Kit glanced at the door, his eyes narrowing. "We should stop this and assist the others. The Temple is under attack."

"No!" Master Allie shouted, her voice firm and desperate. "We're at the critical point. If any of us stop now, or if the telepathic containment falters, the Void Brand will spread through his mind and kill him."

Kit hesitated, his hand twitching toward his lightsaber. He looked at Fay, who met his gaze with a pleading expression. "We cannot stop," she said softly. "Jaden's life depends on us."

The medical bay trembled again as Jaden's scream rose in volume, echoing off the walls. His back arched unnaturally, his body contorting as if trying to resist some unseen force. The walls groaned as the raw energy of his pain lashed out, sending cracks spidering across the durasteel panels. Instruments and furniture rattled violently.

"Hold him!" Master Fay called to the guards stationed nearby. The two Temple Guards rushed forward, gripping Jaden's shoulders and legs to keep him steady. Even through their helmets, their strain was evident as they struggled to contain his thrashing.

"Fay," Kit said again, his insistent. "The Temple won't hold if this attack continues. They need us out there."

"We need you to stay here!" Allie snapped, her voice rising over the sound of outside. "If we lose focus for even a second, this procedure will fail, and he will die. Do you understand me? Die."

Jaden's screams turned guttural, raw and broken as he gasped for air between outbursts. His hands flexed involuntarily, the Force lashing out in sharp waves that sent nearby equipment crashing to the floor. Black blood oozed from the corners of his eyes, staining his cheeks as it mixed with sweat.

"Jaden, fight it!" Fay urged, stepping closer to him. Her voice was calm, but her worry was unmistakable. "You're stronger than this. Push through!"

Inside his mind, Jaden felt as if he were being torn apart. The Void Brand fought viciously, its roots burrowing deeper into his brain with every passing second. Memories he didn't even recognize surfaced, fragments of a life he couldn't recall. Faces, voices, and places blurred together, each one bringing a fresh wave of torment.

A small, defiant part of him clung to the sound of Fay's voice. He focused on her words, grounding himself even as his body screamed at him to give up.

Another tremor shook the Temple, and this time the ceiling cracked, sending a fine layer of dust onto the group. Master Fay glanced upward, her expression darkening. She wanted desperately to know what was happening outside, to ensure that the others were safe, but she couldn't risk breaking her concentration.

"Kit," she said, her voice tight. "I trust the others are holding the line. Please stay. Please trust me."

Kit nodded reluctantly, redirecting his focus to the task at hand. His hands trembled slightly as he reinforced the mental barriers around the Void Brand, pushing back against its assault. Jaden's eyes flickered open for a brief moment, their usual clarity replaced by a bloodshot haze. His lips moved, but no words came out—only a ragged, pained gasp. Another wave of energy surged from him, slamming into the walls and shaking the entire room.

"Stay with us," Fay whispered, her voice barely audible. "You've come too far to lose now."

...

Aubrie stood beside Anakin, her lightsaber raised as they tried to hold their ground. Blaster bolts streaked through the air, forcing them to deflect endlessly. The enemy forces seemed endless—mercenaries and droids advanced in waves, their numbers bolstered by additional drop pods that continued to rain down. Explosions tore through the courtyard, sending debris flying in all directions.

Anakin moved quickly, his lightsaber a blur as he blocked shot after shot, cutting down any who got too close. Aubrie was beside him, keeping her defenses tight as she fought to protect the wounded Jedi and Padawans behind them. A sudden sharp pain tore through her side, and she gasped. A blaster bolt had struck her in the stomach, the searing heat burning through her tunic and leaving her staggered. Her lightsaber faltered, and another bolt came dangerously close before Anakin stepped in front of her, deflecting it back at the mercenary who had fired it.

"Stay behind me!" Anakin shouted, his voice strained.

Aubrie gripped her side, her skin sizzling through her tunic as she struggled to stand. Anakin moved in front of her, his lightsaber catching blaster fire aimed at both of them. He swung the blade, deflecting another bolt back into the chest of a mercenary. Another enemy raised a weapon, but Anakin stepped forward, slicing through the barrel of the blaster before driving his lightsaber through the man's chest. He turned quickly, blocking another volley of fire coming from a group of droids advancing on their position.

The mercenaries began to focus their fire, forcing Anakin to take a step back. His left hand shot out, grabbing a chunk of rubble with the Force and flinging it into the advancing group. The mercenaries were knocked to the ground, their weapons scattering across the debris-filled courtyard. Anakin lunged forward, bringing his lightsaber down on a droid's head before spinning and cutting through another's torso.

Aubrie pushed herself up, but her legs buckled, and she collapsed back onto the ground. She clutched her side, the pain making it hard to focus. Anakin glanced back at her, then turned his attention to a mounted blaster cannon being aimed at their position. He pulled the cannon with the Force, sending it crashing into the ground before it could fire. The mercenaries operating it were thrown to the side, and Anakin strode toward them, deflecting shots as he closed the gap. He thrust his saber into one mercenary's chest, pulled it free, and sliced through another as he tried to draw a vibroblade.

Before he could return to Aubrie, the sound of energy charging filled the air. A mounted cannon fired, the explosion ripping through the courtyard and throwing both Anakin and Aubrie backward. Aubrie hit the ground hard, her body rolling several meters before stopping against a chunk of broken wall. She groaned, the impact making her vision blur. Blood ran from her head, pooling beneath her as she tried to catch her breath.

Anakin landed on his back, his lightsaber skidding across the ground out of reach. He pushed himself up, coughing from the dust and smoke that filled the air. He reached out, calling his saber back to his hand, and reignited it just as the mercenaries began advancing again.

A voice cut through the battle. "Retreat now, deal with this we will."

Anakin looked toward the Temple steps. Master Yoda stood at the top, his small frame surrounded by members of the Jedi Council. Master Windu stood beside him, his lightsaber unlit but ready. The rest of the Council spread out, their faces calm as they surveyed the battlefield.

Yoda stepped forward, dropping his cane to the ground. He raised both hands, his fingers curling slightly as he reached out with the Force. The air grew still for a moment, and then the ships hovering above the battlefield began to shake. The mercenaries looked up, confusion spreading among their ranks as the ships stopped firing and hung motionless in the air. Yoda's hands moved downward, and the ships followed. They slammed into the ground, crushing droids and mercenaries beneath them. The impact sent a wave of dust and debris outward, knocking over those who were too close. Yoda didn't stop. He extended his hands again, pulling another group of ships toward the ground and slamming them into the rubble.

Mace Windu moved as soon as the ships hit. He leapt from the Temple steps, landing in the courtyard with both fists drawn back. He thrust them forward, releasing a powerful wave of Force energy that sent the wrecked ships rolling across the battlefield. The ships crushed anything in their path, flattening the mercenaries and droids that had been trying to regroup.

"Push forward!" Windu shouted. He ignited his lightsaber and moved into the fray, slashing through the enemies in front of him. A mercenary swung a vibroblade at him, but Windu stepped inside the attack, slicing through the weapon and cutting the man down in one motion. He turned to face a group of droids, deflecting their blaster fire as he advanced. He lunged forward, his saber cutting through one droid before spinning to slice the legs off another.

Yoda leapt into the courtyard, his small frame moving quickly through the battlefield. He jumped toward a group of mercenaries, his lightsaber cutting through two of them before he landed. He extended his hand, grabbing the remaining mercenaries with the Force and throwing them into another group taking out several dozen people at once. He moved again, his saber flashing as he dismantled another group of droids.

The other Council members joined the fight, their sabers igniting as they advanced on the enemy. Eoth Koth raised a piece of ship with the Force, hurling it into a group of droids and scattering their formation. Ki-Adi Mundi moved gracefully through the battlefield, cutting down mercenaries and droids with wide strokes m. The Council members worked together seamlessly, covering each other as they pushed the enemy back.

Anakin staggered to his feet, his lightsaber raised as he joined the counterattack. He blocked a blaster bolt, deflecting it into a mercenary's chest before cutting through a droid's arm. He turned quickly, slicing through another droid before it could aim its weapon. He glanced back to see Aubrie being helped to her feet by another Jedi. She nodded at him, signaling that she was okay.

The remaining mercenaries began to falter, their confidence shattered by the overwhelming force of the Jedi Council. Droids continued to fire, but their numbers dwindled rapidly as the Jedi cut through them. Yoda and Windu led the charge, their combined efforts turning the tide of the battle.

Meanwhile Aubrie was carried into the Jedi Temple, her arm draped over the shoulders of a Knight assisting her. The halls were filled with the sounds of groaning wounded, hurried footsteps, and the hum of med droids moving between rows of injured Jedi and Temple staff. She was lowered onto a makeshift bed in the hall, where a healer immediately began working to stabilize her. The healer pressed bacta patches over her wound and applied a hypospray, dulling the sharp pain in her stomach. Aubrie clenched her fists, her breathing shallow as she tried to focus her thoughts. The battle outside still echoed in her mind. She couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't adding up.

She turned her head toward the healer. "How bad is it out there?"

The healer didn't pause as they applied another layer of bacta. "The Council has taken control of the situation. The enemy is retreating, but the damage is extensive. You should rest."

Aubrie shook her head and sat up, grimacing at the sharp pull in her abdomen. "This attack doesn't make sense. Why would mercenaries launch a full-scale assault on the Jedi Temple? They had to know they wouldn't win."

The healer gave her a stern look. "You're in no condition to—"

"Let me think," Aubrie snapped, frustration bubbling in her voice. She waved off the healer, her mind racing as she tried to piece it all together. The timing of the attack gnawed at her. She thought back to recent events—the attempts on Jaden and Padmé's lives, the coordinated nature of those incidents. They weren't random. The mercenaries knew the Temple defenses would be focused on the attack. Her eyes widened as the realization hit her.

"This was a distraction," she muttered, her voice trembling.

The healer glanced at her but said nothing. Aubrie swung her legs off the bed, ignoring the protest from her wound. "If it was a distraction, what were they trying to achieve?"

She stood, wobbling slightly as she leaned against the bed for support. Her thoughts raced. Jaden and Padmé, the attack on them. She gritted her teeth. They're unguarded.

"Jaden," she whispered, a cold knot forming in her stomach. Her voice rose as she screamed his name. "Jaden!"

Ignoring the healer's shouts to stop, Aubrie bolted from the hall. Her legs felt weak, but adrenaline pushed her forward. She stumbled through the halls, past wounded Jedi and frightened younglings seeking refuge. The ground beneath her shook as another distant explosion echoed through the Temple. She reached the entrance to the medical wing, stopping dead in her tracks as she saw the destruction. Walls were scorched, and medical equipment lay scattered and broken. The air was thick with the scent of burned metal and smoke. Aubrie stepped cautiously inside, her eyes scanning the wreckage.

She spotted Master Allie first, slumped against the wall, unconscious. Master Shaak Ti and Master Fisto and Fay were lying nearby, their breathing shallow but steady. Aubrie rushed to them, kneeling to check their pulses. Relief washed over her when she found them alive.

A loud clash of metal drew her attention to the far end of the room. She turned to see Master Plo Koon locked in combat with a man in advanced armor. The figure moved quickly, his staff striking out in rapid thrusts. Plo Koon's lightsaber flickered as it connected with the weapon, shorting out momentarily before reigniting. The armored man pressed forward, his strikes strong and fart making Plo Koon give ground.

Aubrie ignited her lightsaber and rushed toward the fight. She reached out with the Force, hurling a broken medical table at the attacker. The man spun, raising his staff to deflect the improvised projectile, which he smashed harmlessly to the side. Plo Koon seized the opportunity to strike, aiming for the man's exposed side, but the attacker pivoted, his staff colliding with the saber and causing it to short out again.

"Master Plo!" Aubrie shouted, her lightsaber slashing toward the man's back. He twisted, catching her blade with his staff. The strange staff caused her saber to sputter before it disengaged. She stepped back, trying to keep her balance as he advanced on her.

Plo Koon lunged forward, his saber reigniting as he aimed for the man's head. The attacker ducked, sweeping his staff low and forcing Plo Koon to leap back. Aubrie recovered and attacked from the side, slashing at his legs. He spun the staff in a wide arc, forcing her to block and stumble back from the force of the strike. The man moved with speed and strength beyond what seemed natural, he was also clearly highly skilled in his use of the staff. Aubrie tried to anticipate his movements, but something felt off. She couldn't sense his intentions through the Force. It was as if his mind was shielded, blank.

Plo Koon raised his free hand, sending a wave of Force energy toward the attacker. The man staggered but didn't fall as his armour seemed to light up in various shades of red. He countered with a strike to Plo Koon's chest, sending the Jedi Master sliding back sputtering. Aubrie closed the distance, aiming for his side again, but he turned sharply, his staff colliding with her blade and causing it to disengage.

"Focus on his weapon!" Plo Koon shouted, his voice steady despite the chaos. "We must disarm him!"

Aubrie nodded, regaining her footing. She feinted a strike at his head before pivoting to aim for the staff. The man parried, but Plo Koon followed up with a heavy downward slash, forcing him to block with both hands. The staff sparked as it absorbed the blow, but the combined effort pushed him back a step. Aubrie then reached out with the Force, gripping the staff and trying to yank it from his hands. He growled, his grip tightening as he resisted. Plo Koon took advantage of the distraction, slashing at the man's leg and landing a glancing blow; the impact knocked the man off balance.

The attacker growled in frustration and pressed a button on his wrist. A small device on his belt beeped, and smoke erupted around him, obscuring their view. Aubrie coughed, her vision blurry as she swung her saber blindly. She heard the sound of footsteps retreating and rushed forward, using the Force to clear the smoke. By the time it dissipated, the attacker was gone.

Plo Koon deactivated his lightsaber, his breathing heavy. He turned to Aubrie, his usually calm demeanor tinged with frustration. "Are you all right?"

Aubrie nodded, her eyes scanning the ruined room. Her heart sank as she looked around. "Where is Jaden?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Plo Koon hesitated, his silence speaking volumes. He finally met her gaze.

"He's gone."

(AN: So who expected an assault on the temple, tbf it wasn't built up that much. However that was on purpose, the whole point of this is to convey how much money and influence Collan has. He genuinely has fuck you money times a trillion. Money really can buy anything and there are many non Jedi workers in the temple who would be glad to take bribes. It also have a look at Yoda and Windu, two pretty powerful Jedi, I was inspired by the 2003 animated clone wars series with this, during the siege of Coruscant. I thought that was pretty cool and a good show of how strong Yoda should be though tbh he is probably stronger. Anyway where is Jaden, is he dead, probably not, though with the average life span of my characters it's possible. Hope you enjoyed the chapter.)

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