Battle For Naboo

Gojo glanced around at his students and Padmé, sensing the growing bond and understanding among them. He gave a small nod, the faintest hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Alright, I think it's time we wrap up this training session."

The group nodded in agreement, and with a swift motion from Gojo, the vibrant landscape of the Non-Lethal Domain dissolved around them. They found themselves standing back in the real world, in an empty room aboard the Royal Naboo Starship. The sudden shift from the intense, otherworldly training ground to the quiet, sterile room was jarring, but they quickly adjusted.

Just as they were settling back into reality, an urgent announcement echoed through the ship's intercom, breaking the silence.

"Queen Amidala and Gojo, we need your presence in the cockpit immediately."

Padmé's expression shifted to one of concern, and she exchanged a quick, serious glance with Gojo. The lighthearted atmosphere from their training dissipated instantly, replaced by the weight of their ongoing mission.

Gojo straightened, his usual casual demeanor replaced by a focused intensity. "Well, looks like playtime's over," he said, his tone both light and resolute. He turned to Padmé, offering her a reassuring nod. "Let's see what's going on."

Padmé nodded back, her resolve firm as she quickly adjusted her composure. "Let's go," she said, her voice steady as she led the way toward the cockpit. Reika, Yukinami, and the others watched them leave, sensing that whatever awaited them would require all the skills and resolve they had been honing.

As Gojo and Padmé reached the cockpit, they were greeted by Captain Ric Olié, the pilot of the Royal Naboo Starship. His expression was tense as he quickly briefed them on the situation. "We've got a problem. There's a blockade—five Lucrehulk-class battleships positioned directly in our path to Naboo."

Padmé's brow furrowed with concern, and she glanced at Gojo. "Five Lucrehulks… that's a formidable force," she murmured, her mind racing through possible strategies.

Gojo, unfazed, folded his arms and began to consider their options. If I attack them directly, it'll just set off alarms. They'll tighten their defenses and might even force me into using Malevolent Shrine too soon. That's way more attention than we need right now. Gotta be smart about this—keep it low-key, avoid stirring up the hornet's nest. A sly grin crept onto his face as the plan formed in his mind.

"Alright, I've got just the thing," Gojo declared confidently. He raised his right hand, channeling the power of the Soul King's right hand, and a cloak of impenetrable darkness spread out from his grasp. The darkness wrapped around the entire starship, bending light and rendering it completely invisible to enemy sensors and sight alike.

The once-visible starship was now hidden under a veil of darkness, as if it had vanished entirely from existence.

Padmé and Captain Ric Olié watched in awe as the ship disappeared from view. Ric Olié was the first to speak, his voice laced with amazement. "I've never seen anything like this… We're completely off their radar."

Gojo nodded, his expression one of satisfaction. "Perfect. Keep moving straight ahead and proceed as planned. We need to make it to the Gungans; their firepower will be crucial for the ground battle if we want to win this fight on Naboo."

Padmé looked at Gojo with a mix of gratitude and determination. "You really do have a way of turning the tide, don't you?"

Gojo smirked slightly, his eyes glinting with quiet confidence. "Just doing what needs to be done. Let's keep things smooth and get to Naboo without stirring the pot too much."

The ship, shrouded in darkness, glided forward undetected, clearing their path towards their destination, ready to gather allies and prepare for the battles that awaited them.

The ship, shrouded in darkness, glided forward undetected, allowing them to bypass the blockade and reach Naboo without incident. Just as in the original story, Padmé managed to persuade the Gungans to join forces with her, forging an alliance that would bolster their defenses on the ground against the Trade Federation's droid army.

Now, Gojo found himself in the strategy camp alongside Boss Nass, Captain Panaka, Padmé, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan. A detailed map of Naboo and its surrounding space was projected before them, highlighting the pressing challenge they faced.

Gojo observed the strategy map, his gaze sharp and focused as Captain Panaka outlined the grim reality of their situation. "We're heavily outnumbered in space," Panaka said, pointing at the display. "There are ten Lucrehulk-class battleships: five whose locations are confirmed, and five more that are unaccounted for. They could be hiding anywhere, waiting for the perfect moment to strike."

Gojo quickly refocused the discussion on the ground battle. "While I'm handling the Lucrehulks in space, our primary target on the ground is the control Lucrehulk—the one with the big hole near its hangar that I hit earlier. It's landed on the Great Grass Plains and is heavily fortified. Destroying this ship will deactivate the entire droid army, rendering them harmless. But we can't forget about Theed Castle; capturing the Viceroy will ensure our victory, though it's well-guarded and will require a coordinated assault."

He turned to the group, his expression serious and resolute. "Wonder of U will tackle the Lucrehulk on the Great Grass Plains, diverting their forces and creating the perfect distraction. This will allow the rest of you—Padmé, the Gungans, the Naboo forces, and the Jedi—to focus all your efforts on storming Theed Castle. With their forces spread thin, you'll have the opportunity to breach the castle and capture the Viceroy."

Padmé nodded, understanding the importance of the plan. "We need to hit Theed Castle with everything we've got while Wonder of U keeps the main droid forces busy on the plains."

Qui-Gon added thoughtfully, "Attacking the droid control ship will throw their forces into chaos, giving us a better shot at breaking through and reclaiming the palace."

Gojo nodded in agreement. "Exactly. The castle is their command center. With the droids distracted and their control ship under fire, they'll be vulnerable. Hit them hard, and don't let up."

Obi-Wan stepped forward, his determination clear in his voice. "We'll lead the assault on Theed Castle. The Jedi will make sure the Viceroy is captured, and the castle secured."

Boss Nass, who had been listening intently, nodded with determination. "Da Gungans will fight alongside yousa. Wesa bringin' all da might of our people. Invaders will fall, and Naboo will be free once again!"

Gojo gave a satisfied nod, pleased with the unity of the plan. He then turned to Boss Nass with a curious expression. "Boss Nass, do you know much about the Gallo Mountains?"

Boss Nass's face lit up with reverence. "Ah, da Gallo Mountains… sacred ground for da Gungans. Our ancestors fought dere long ago to protect our people. It's a place of honor, strength, and history—a symbol of our heritage."

Gojo's mind started racing at the mention of the Gallo Mountains. Oh no… not the Gallo Mountains! That's exactly where I planted my Locacaca trees and set up my experiments. Of all places, why there? If the Gungans go there, it could get messy fast. Those trees aren't exactly stable, and my experiments… Let's just say they aren't meant for uninvited guests. I need to make sure they stay clear of that area—at least until I figure out what to do with it.

Trying to keep his cool, Gojo casually asked, "Boss Nass, after this battle, do you think the Gungans will be heading to the Gallo Mountains soon? For, you know, any ceremonies or worshipping?"

Boss Nass pondered for a moment, then shook his head. "Not right away. First, wesa need to secure Naboo and celebrate da victory. Da Gallo Mountains can wait until da time is right."

Gojo let out a quiet sigh of relief, masking his concerns with a lighthearted smile. "Good to know. Let's focus on the task at hand, then. We've got a planet to save."

Padmé, who had spent enough time around Gojo to read him like a book, leaned in and whispered, "You did something up there, didn't you?"

Gojo chuckled softly, scratching the back of his head with an embarrassed smile. "Let's just say… it can come later. Nothing to worry about right now."

With the conversation shifting back to the battle at hand, Gojo's demeanor turned serious as he approached Reika, pulling her aside for a quiet word. He leaned in close and whispered, "Reika, I need you to use your Force stealth or any stealth capabilities you have. I want you to keep an eye on Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan when they go up against that unknown Sith warrior—Darth Maul. You're not to intervene unless Qui-Gon gets stabbed. If they actually heed my warning and work together, then great, you won't need to step in. But if he gets stabbed, you know what to do."

Reika nodded, her expression focused and determined. "Understood, Sensei. I'll stay hidden and only intervene if things go south."

Gojo then handed her a small vial containing Locacaca 6251, the strange, potent liquid glowing faintly inside. "Use this to save Qui-Gon if it comes to that. It'll heal him instantly. And after that, feel free to have some fun with the Sith warrior. Just remember—Maul's no joke, but neither are you."

Reika accepted the vial with a firm grip, a determined look crossing her face. "I won't let you down, Sensei. Qui-Gon's in good hands."

Gojo nodded approvingly. "I know you won't. Just keep your wits about you. And remember, if things get too dicey, get out of there. We've got bigger things to handle than a grudge match."

Reika grinned. "Got it. I'll make sure everything goes according to plan."

With a final nod, Gojo stepped back, his confidence in his student unwavering. He rejoined the rest of the group, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead on Naboo.

Meanwhile, on the Great Grass Plains, inside the damaged Lucrehulk control ship, Neimoidian captain Daultay Dofine paced anxiously across the bridge. The ship's control systems were failing, with warning lights flashing all around. "System failure at 50 percent," Dofine muttered, frustration seeping through every word. "We landed for repairs to fix the damage caused by that insufferable Gojo Satoru, and these droids can't seem to fix anything right!"

A B1 battle droid clanked awkwardly beside him, attempting to assist with the repairs. "Uh, sir, we… uh… kind of ran out of materials to fix the big hole. You know, the one caused by the big flashy guy with the weird hair," the droid said, scratching its metal head as if trying to think.

Dofine scowled, rubbing his temples in exasperation. "You think I don't know that? What do you suggest we do, send a memo to Gojo asking him nicely to patch up the damage he caused?"

The droid tilted its head, struggling to catch the sarcasm. "Well, uh… we could always ask him? I mean, he's pretty strong, maybe he can fix it for us if we say 'please'… or… I dunno, offer him a cupcake?"

Dofine blinked, utterly dumbfounded by the suggestion. "A cupcake? You think offering a Sith-level threat like Gojo Satoru a baked good will—"

Before he could finish, an alarm blared through the control room. Screens flickered to show a lone figure approaching the Lucrehulk from the distance. Dofine squinted at the display, his eyes widening in horror. It was Tooru—Wonder of U, in his human guise.

Clad in a sleek, dark suit with faint, starry patterns woven into the fabric, Tooru looked as though he'd stepped out of another era. Leaning on a polished silver cane topped with a crystal orb, he exuded an eerie calm, almost as if he were merely taking a casual stroll. His expression was serene, yet there was a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

Dofine paled as he recalled Tooru's previous machinations and the torment he had inflicted upon their Viceroy. Panic overtook him, and he pointed frantically at the screen, his voice breaking into a shrill, desperate yell.

"It's him! It's Tooru—the one who drove our Viceroy to madness! Open fire! Everything we've got—AT tanks, heavy weaponry, all of it! Kill that man!" Dofine's voice was hysterical, verging on a breakdown as he barked his orders.

The B1 battle droids scrambled into action, clanking loudly as they moved to man the Lucrehulk's defenses. The ship's arsenal was unleashed in full force—AT tanks rolled into position, heavy cannons whirred, and blaster turrets locked onto the approaching figure. The droids, despite their limited programming, seemed almost eager to unleash their firepower, as if convinced this would finally be the end of their tormentor.

Tooru continued his approach, unfazed by the chaotic activation of the Lucrehulk's defenses. He twirled his cane idly, the crystal orb gleaming in the sunlight, and his steps remained calm and measured, as if he were impervious to the threats around him.

"Fire!" Dofine shrieked, his eyes wide with fear and desperation.

A torrent of laser bolts, explosive shells, and blaster fire erupted from the Lucrehulk, filling the sky with deadly streaks of light. The ground shook as the barrage rained down on Tooru's position, the noise deafening and relentless.

Yet, as the smoke cleared, Tooru stood unscathed, his suit unmarked, his expression unchanged. The attacks had either bent away, missed entirely, or simply dissipated before reaching him, as if reality itself refused to acknowledge his defeat.

Dofine stared, slack-jawed, unable to comprehend what he was seeing. "What… what is this? How is he…?"

Tooru, still twirling his cane, gave a polite yet chilling smile. "Is that truly the best you can muster?" His voice carried over the battlefield, calm and mocking. "You should know by now… you can't defy inevitability."

Suddenly, a fresh wave of forces arrived from Theed Castle—an overwhelming assembly of AAT tanks, millions of battle droids, and hundreds of thousands of droid starfighters, encircling Tooru in a deadly formation. Dofine's fear twisted into a manic glee as he watched the reinforcements surround the interloper.

"This… this is where your grave is!" Dofine bellowed through the intercom, his Neimoidian accent thick with triumphant madness. "You are surrounded on all sides! Now you die, Tooru!"

Tooru's smile didn't waver. He glanced around at the amassed forces, then calmly set his cane down, its crystal orb glowing faintly. His form began to shift, the human guise dissolving as the ominous presence of Wonder of U took shape. The air grew heavy, and the battlefield seemed to bend to his will.

"When the new Locacaca is gained," Wonder of U's voice echoed, dripping with a menacing calm, "and Master Satoru reaches his full potential… when he awakens as King… my journey will be complete."

His form fully transformed into the Stand, a towering figure that radiated a dark, oppressive energy. The very air around him seemed to reject the attacks as his transformation completed, embodying the concept of inevitability itself. The forces around him hesitated, their programmed determination wavered by the sheer presence of the Stand.

Wonder of U, now in its imposing Stand form, moved with an unyielding grace that belied the chaos unfolding around it. As it advanced, the battlefield twisted further into calamity. AT tanks erupted in flames, their turrets spinning aimlessly before bursting apart. Battle droids fell in droves, their circuits frying and limbs twitching as if succumbing to a predetermined fate. The skies above filled with the burning wreckage of starfighters, each crash sending tremors through the Lucrehulk's battered frame, amplifying the growing sense of doom.

Captain Daultay Dofine stood frozen, his earlier arrogance now fully replaced by sheer terror. The Neimoidian's voice quivered as he watched the meticulously crafted defenses crumble like sand before an unstoppable wave. "Impossible… how is he doing this?" he stammered, barely able to comprehend the destruction wrought by Wonder of U's mere presence. The realization dawned that this was not a conventional enemy but a force of nature, one that turned probability and reality against its foes.

Wonder of U moved with eerie calm, its movements deliberate and calculated. The battlefield seemed to ripple around it, each step reverberating with an unspoken decree of defeat. Dofine clung to the intercom, his hands shaking. "This… this can't be happening…"

The Stand's voice, cold and unwavering, pierced through the din of destruction. "You'll be dead soon," it declared, its tone devoid of malice yet filled with the weight of inevitability. "The order of calamity will flow, and your end is merely the beginning."

Wonder of U reached the hangar of the Lucrehulk, pausing momentarily as it surveyed the chaotic remnants of Dofine's forces. Instead of immediately unleashing its full might to eradicate the crew, the Stand took a different approach, inspecting the Lucrehulk with a curious detachment. It walked among the shattered droids and smoldering wreckage, its presence an anomaly of calm amid the chaos.

The Lucrehulk itself, a symbol of the Trade Federation's industrial might, intrigued Wonder of U. To an ordinary observer, it was nothing more than a tool of war, but to the Stand, it represented potential—a machine capable of assembling armies, a resource that could be redirected for its master's grander designs.

Wonder of U's gaze shifted, the glint of calculation in its spectral eyes. "This structure... a fascinating creation," it mused aloud, speaking to no one yet addressing the ship itself. "To build an army for Master Satoru... such a vessel could be repurposed, not destroyed outright."

As it continued its slow, deliberate inspection, Wonder of U seemed to assess every panel, every circuit. It wasn't here solely to fulfill its duty of destruction; it was here to understand, to explore how this colossal war machine could serve a higher purpose. For the Stand, each element of the Lucrehulk represented another potential piece in the ever-expanding arsenal of Gojo Satoru.

Wonder of U, its purpose momentarily pivoted, continued its unhurried exploration, leaving Dofine and his crew suspended in a state of dread, trapped between the whims of inevitability and the calculating gaze of a Stand that saw the universe not as it was but as it could be molded to serve its master.

Dofine, hidden behind the cracked viewscreen, watched in disbelief as Wonder of U moved with eerie calm through his ship. This was not the rampage of a simple foe bent on destruction; it was something far more unsettling—a deliberate, calculated inspection of the Lucrehulk's inner workings, as if each step and glance was part of a grander design. Dofine and his crew were trapped in a state of paralytic dread, ensnared by the Stand's aura of inevitability and the chilling prospect that their ship was now a pawn in some larger, unfathomable plan.

Meanwhile, outside Theed Castle, Padmé was gearing up to execute her carefully crafted plan. She intended to sneak into the castle with her strike team while the Gungan army created a massive diversion, drawing the droid forces into the open field. But just as they were about to move, an urgent and panicked broadcast blared from the intercom, Gunray's voice shrill and laced with fear.

"All forces, kill Tooru near the control Lucrehulk! Kill him! Kill him now!" Gunray's voice was desperate, echoing the trauma and chaos that Tooru had unleashed upon them. The panic in his words was palpable, as though he was teetering on the brink of madness, overwhelmed by the relentless force that was Wonder of U.

Captain Panaka, hearing the transmission, turned to Padmé with a curious and concerned look. "Your Majesty, what exactly is Tooru's power? Why is the Trade Federation so terrified of him?"

Padmé chuckled softly, shaking her head at the absurdity of the situation. "Tooru's power?" she repeated, a knowing smile spreading across her face. "It's quite simple, Captain. Anyone who tries to chase or harm him gets nothing but bad luck. It's like trying to outrun your own shadow—it just doesn't end well." She laughed lightly, appreciating the irony of the entire scenario: one being's mere existence had left Theed Castle virtually unguarded.

The castle's defenses, once formidable, now consisted of just a dozen AAT tanks positioned at the main gates and scattered around the perimeter, and a paltry thousand battle droids patrolling the grounds. It was a pitiful showing compared to the overwhelming force they had initially brought to bear on Naboo.

 Panaka chuckled at the irony. "So, one being is enough to nearly strip Theed Castle of its defenses. Incredible." 

Padmé nodded, her smile widening. "We're left with only a dozen AAT tanks and a few thousand battle droids. This is our chance. Let's enact the plan."

The Gungan army, arrayed on the plains before Theed, began their assault. Under the leadership of General Jar Jar Binks, who now wore a makeshift general's cap with a lopsided but determined tilt, the Gungans unleashed their full arsenal. Massive catapults hurled plasma energy orbs, glowing with a fierce blue light, arcing through the sky to crash into the droid ranks. The orbs detonated on impact, sending shockwaves through the droid formations and scattering them like toy soldiers.

"Ready da boomers!" Jar Jar called out, his voice a mix of nervousness and newfound authority. Gungan warriors armed with energy balls, known as "boomers," hurled the explosives at the advancing droids. Each boomer struck with devastating effect, discharging an electric shock that short-circuited the battle droids, causing them to collapse in heaps of smoking metal.

The AAT tanks tried to retaliate, firing their heavy blasters at the Gungan lines. Energy shields flared to life, absorbing the onslaught with a brilliant cascade of lights. Gungans armed with spear launchers retaliated, their projectiles striking the tanks with precision, causing explosions that sent the metal behemoths toppling.

Jar Jar, despite his usual clumsiness, seemed to embody the chaotic energy of the battlefield. He tripped over a fallen droid, his movements causing him to stumble into a control lever on one of the Gungan catapults. The device launched a boomer straight into the air, spinning wildly before smashing down into a cluster of AAT tanks. The resulting explosion was massive, engulfing the tanks in a fiery blast that sent debris flying in all directions.

"Oopsie! Mesa did it again!" Jar Jar exclaimed, his eyes wide with a mixture of surprise and glee as the tanks exploded.

The droids attempted to regroup, but the Gungans' relentless assault and unpredictable tactics kept them off balance. The battlefield was a cacophony of war cries, blaster fire, and the thundering impact of catapults launching their payloads. Gungan kaadu riders charged through the droid lines, slashing through the droids with their lances, their mounts agile and fierce.

Padmé and her team moved with purpose, slipping through the now lightly defended corridors of Theed Castle. The once formidable fortress was left vulnerable, its defenses spread thin due to the desperate diversion at the Great Grass Plains. The shouts of droids and the hum of blasters faded into the background as Padmé, Panaka, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan , and her group moved closer to their target.

"Remember, we're here to capture the Viceroy," Padmé whispered, her voice steady despite the tension. "Stay focused."

The Gungan army's spirited and chaotic assault continued to hold the bulk of the droid forces at bay, ensuring that Padmé's infiltration team could slip through the cracks and strike at the heart of the Trade Federation's command. As the battle raged on outside, Theed Castle stood on the brink of liberation, the outcome of the conflict swaying heavily in favor of the unexpected alliance of Naboo's defenders and the Gungan warriors.

With each explosion and every toppled droid, the odds tilted further in their favor. The echoes of battle reverberated through the streets of Theed, signaling the dawn of a new hope for the besieged planet of Naboo.

As Padmé's team navigated the corridors of Theed Castle, they encountered a large door in the hangar bay that slid open, revealing a menacing figure: Darth Maul. His red-and-black tattoos and the ominous hum of his double-bladed lightsaber filled the room with a chilling presence. Obi-Wan instinctively stepped forward, ready to confront the Sith, but Qui-Gon held him back, his calm resolve unwavering.

"We'll handle this," Qui-Gon said firmly, his eyes locked onto Maul. The Jedi ignited their lightsabers, their green and blue blades illuminating the space as they moved to engage the Sith Lord.

Padmé nodded, urgency in her voice. "We need to keep moving. Let's find another route to the throne room."

As Padmé, Captain Panaka, Sabé, and their group hurried through the hangar, they suddenly found themselves face-to-face with four droidekas, their shields snapping into place as they advanced. Blaster fire erupted, and the distinctive sound of energy shields absorbing the shots filled the air. Captain Panaka clenched his jaw, frustration flashing across his face.

"These damn shields are impenetrable!" Panaka growled, taking cover behind a column. "We're going to need more firepower if we want to get past these things."

Sabé scanned the hangar, trying to find a way out of their predicament. "I'll try to flank them," she suggested, her eyes darting to Padmé. "Your Majesty, can you create a distraction?"

Padmé nodded, her hand steady as she prepared to draw the enemy's attention. But just as she was about to give the order, a new wave of droidekas rolled in from the opposite side, effectively trapping them in a deadly crossfire.

Panaka's face turned grim as he realized the gravity of their situation. "They're surrounding us," he said through gritted teeth. "We're running out of options."

Padmé's heart pounded as she weighed their choices. They were vastly outnumbered, and the relentless advance of the droidekas left them little room to maneuver. "We can't stay here. We need to break through or we'll be overwhelmed!" she urged, her voice filled with determination.

As the team braced for a desperate last stand, the high-pitched whine of engines roared above them. They all looked up to see a Royal Naboo Starship swooping down into the hangar at breakneck speed. The ship veered sharply, crashing directly into the group of droidekas with a deafening impact. The force of the crash obliterated the droids, their shields shattered, and debris scattered across the hangar floor.

Padmé stared in shock, her mind struggling to process what had just happened. "What in the—who would—"

Panaka, equally stunned, glanced at the smoldering wreck of the starship. "Who could've piloted that? And why would they crash into the droidekas?"

Suddenly, the side of the Royal Naboo Starship was cut open, the metal screeching as a makeshift entrance was carved out by Suzunami, wielding his altar technique with precise, powerful strokes. He stepped through the opening and shouted with an exasperated expression, "Potential man, can you really drive a ship or not?"

Anakin, dusting himself off, grinned sheepishly from behind him. "Well, it was a good landing, right?"

Yukinami, standing beside him, rolled her eyes, exasperated but relieved. "Only you would call that a good landing."

Shmi, stepping out carefully, added with a wry smile, "Well, it was my first crash landing, anyway."

Padmé, seeing them safe and sound, rushed forward and embraced them all in a tight hug, the relief washing over her. But as she pulled back, she suddenly remembered the state of the ship. She looked between Anakin and the others, her expression a mix of disbelief and amusement. "Did you just crash my ship?"

Anakin scratched the back of his head, chuckling nervously. "I thought it was the best way to get rid of the droids. Worked, didn't it?"

Padmé shook her head, laughing despite herself. "I suppose so. But next time, let's try to keep the starships intact, okay?"

Suzunami, still holding his altar blade, snickered. "Guess crashing stuff is your specialty, potential man."

Yukinami nodded in agreement, though she smiled softly. "Yeah, well, at least we made an entrance."

Panaka, still bewildered but grateful for the unexpected rescue, gave a nod of approval. "You saved us. That's all that matters."

Padmé took a deep breath, her focus returning to the mission. "Alright, let's keep moving—"

Before she could finish, the familiar clattering of droidekas echoed through the hangar as another batch rolled in, their shields snapping into place. The threat loomed larger as the droidekas from the opposite side continued their relentless advance, effectively boxing the group in.

Yukinami, sensing the dire situation, took a quick step forward, determination flashing in her eyes. She summoned Divine Dog, the spectral form materializing beside her with a low growl. With a quick command, she combined them into Divine Dog: Totality, a massive, ferocious beast. "Tear them apart!" she ordered, pointing at the droidekas. The Divine Dog lunged, claws and fangs bared, tearing through the first line of droids with brutal efficiency.

However, the respite was short-lived as more droidekas rolled in to replace the fallen, their shields making it nearly impossible for the group to gain any ground. The situation grew increasingly desperate, the droidekas' relentless onslaught threatening to overwhelm them.

Suzunami, watching the battle unfold, clenched his fists and muttered under his breath, his mind racing for a solution. "This isn't going to work… we need to do something bigger." He took a deep breath, steeling himself, then called out to the others. "Guys, give me some time. I'm going to try something… but whatever happens, don't you dare tell Sensei about this!"

Yukinami glanced over, her eyes widening in surprise. "What are you thinking, Suzunami? This is no time for half-baked ideas!"

Suzunami gave her a mischievous grin, his confidence unwavering despite the chaos around them. "Trust me on this. Just keep them busy for a few seconds."

Padmé, overhearing their exchange, looked concerned but nodded. "Do whatever you need to do. We'll cover you."

Suzunami stepped back, closing his eyes and focusing his energy. He could feel the rush of cursed energy flowing through him.

Suzunami closed his eyes, the chaos of the battlefield momentarily fading as he recalled Gojo's teachings about Domain Expansion. His sensei's words echoed in his mind: "In a full domain, any attack that's aimed at you is guaranteed to hit, no matter what." Gojo's confident smile and unwavering certainty played in Suzunami's memory, reminding him that this was more than just raw power—it was about defining his path, setting himself apart from Sukuna's malevolence.

I won't become like Sukuna, Suzunami thought to himself, clenching his fists. I'll be better, and I'll use this power for good. He made an enma handseal, raising his hand with his middle finger extended—a defiant twist on the traditional stance.

"Domain Expansion: Benevolent Altar!" Suzunami declared, his voice carrying the weight of his conviction.

The air around them shimmered and warped as the Domain unfolded, transforming the grim hangar into a serene, otherworldly realm. The walls vanished, replaced by a vast, ancient temple illuminated by soft, warm light. Towering stone pillars adorned with intricate carvings of benevolence, healing, and protection rose around them. At the base of each pillar, golden lotus flowers bloomed, their glowing petals drifting through the air.

The ground beneath their feet transformed into smooth, reflective marble, and a gentle breeze carried the faint scent of incense, infusing the space with a sense of tranquility. It felt like a sanctuary—a stark contrast to the violence and chaos outside.

Above, the ceiling dissolved into an open sky, where a brilliant sun cast rays of purifying light. Birds of light flew gracefully above, leaving shimmering trails in their wake. The soft murmur of running water echoed from an unseen stream or fountain, adding to the Domain's serene ambiance.

But within this calm, the true nature of Suzunami's Domain emerged—a potent, refined danger masked in tranquility. The advancing droidekas, their shields once impenetrable, were now at the mercy of the altar's hidden power. The carvings on the stone pillars began to glow, and from them emerged ethereal blades shaped like delicate lotus petals, each as sharp as a finely honed weapon.

With fluid precision, the blades moved silently, guided by Suzunami's intent. They sliced through the droidekas with effortless grace, dissecting them into countless pieces. The cuts were so precise, so exact, that the droids had no time to react; their formidable presence was reduced to a neatly arranged array of parts on the marble floor, rendered harmless by the Domain's elegance.

This was no crude display of violence; it was an expression of Suzunami's commitment to wielding his powers differently—effectively and with purpose, but without needless destruction. The Benevolent Altar was his statement: he would forge his own path, free from Sukuna's shadow.

Yukinami, watching her brother, was stunned beyond words. "He… he pulled off a Domain Expansion?" she muttered, a mix of shock and awe in her voice. "I never imagined he could… and with such control."

Padmé, equally amazed by the transformation, approached Suzunami, her eyes filled with admiration and a newfound respect. She glanced at the serene yet powerful display, then back at Suzunami. "Do I see Sukuna's successor?" she remarked, recalling the raw, overwhelming force of the Malevolent Shrine she had witnessed before. Unable to contain her pride, she pulled Suzunami into a tight embrace.

But Suzunami, still in the midst of his Domain, raised his hand and shouted, "Not yet! I've made a binding vow—I've temporarily disabled my severance technique in exchange for eliminating all the droids in the castle!"

His declaration hung heavy in the air, shocking everyone around him. Binding vows were not to be taken lightly; they were powerful, dangerous commitments that often demanded severe consequences. The gravity of Suzunami's choice was not lost on those who knew the peril such a vow could entail.

Yukinami's eyes widened further, her admiration now mixed with concern. "Suzunami, that's…"

Captain Panaka, who understood the gravity of binding vows, looked at Suzunami with a mix of awe and respect. "You really went all in, didn't you?"

Padmé, though proud, tightened her grip on Suzunami. "You're not just powerful—you're willing to sacrifice for the greater good. We're going to win this, but you don't have to shoulder it all alone."

Shmi stepped forward, her expression filled with both pride and worry. "You've done more than anyone could have asked for, Suzunami. Just remember, we're here to support you too."

Anakin, his eyes wide with admiration, added, "You're incredible, Suzunami! But you don't have to do everything alone—we're a team."

Suzunami nodded, the determination still burning in his eyes. "I know. But this is my choice, my path, and I won't—" Suddenly, his voice cut off as he coughed violently, blood splattering from his mouth. He staggered, his body shuddering as blood also began to seep from his nose and ears.

Yukinami rushed to his side, her face pale with fear. She quickly activated her Reverse Curse Technique, her hands glowing as she tried to heal him. "Stay with me, Suzunami! You'll be alright, you hear me? You've got to stay with me!" She cried, her voice breaking as she held him tightly.

Yukinami, tears streaming down her face, continued to pour her energy into healing him. "You'll be fine, Suzunami. Just hold on. I'm right here."

Padmé, still holding onto Suzunami, exchanged a worried glance with Yukinami. "You've shown incredible strength today, but don't push yourself to the brink. We're all in this together."

Captain Panaka nodded, his usually stern demeanor softened by the sight of Suzunami's sacrifice. "You've done your part, Suzunami. Let us do ours."

Shmi gently placed a hand on Suzunami's shoulder, her touch warm and comforting. "You're stronger than you think, Suzunami. And you're not alone."

Anakin, stepping closer, echoed the sentiment. "You're a hero, Suzunami. Just hang in there. You've already done so much."

As the last of the droids within the castle was terminated, Suzunami canceled his Domain. The serene landscape of the Benevolent Altar faded, returning them to the harsh reality of the castle's hangar. As his strength gave out, Suzunami's knees buckled, and he began to collapse.

Sabé, quick to react, caught Suzunami before he hit the ground, her expression filled with admiration and concern. "You've impressed me today, Suzunami," she said softly, cradling him like a princess in her arms. "You're not just strong—you're brave, and you've proven it."

Suzunami managed a weak smile, the exhaustion evident in his eyes. "Thanks… didn't think I'd end up like this," he mumbled, his voice barely above a whisper.

Padmé approached, placing a hand on Sabé's shoulder. "Take care of him, Sabé. Suzunami has done more than enough. He deserves to rest now."

Sabé nodded, holding Suzunami close. "I've got him, Your Majesty. He's in good hands."

With the battle won and the castle secured, Padmé, Sabé, and the rest of the team moved forward, Suzunami safely in their care. They had liberated Theed Castle, and thanks to Suzunami's bravery, they were one step closer to freeing Naboo.

THEED - POWER GENERATOR PIT

The intense duel between the Jedi and Darth Maul continued amidst the blinding red glow of the power generator pit. Lightsabers clashed with furious intensity, each strike echoing through the vast chamber. Darth Maul's agility and aggression kept Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi on constant alert, their movements precise yet strained as they fought to keep up with the Sith's relentless assault.

A powerful kick from Maul sent Obi-Wan tumbling off one of the narrow catwalks. He fell several levels, barely managing to catch himself on a lower platform, winded but unbroken. Qui-Gon, seizing the moment, landed a solid blow, sending Maul off another ramp. The Sith expertly flipped, landing on a different level, his double-bladed lightsaber twirling as he regained his footing.

Without warning, the battle's setting shifted dramatically. The harsh mechanical hum of the generators and the oppressive red light disappeared, replaced by a vast, serene temple bathed in a soft, warm glow. Towering stone pillars etched with symbols of peace and protection surrounded them, and golden lotus flowers floated gently in the air. The scent of incense lingered, adding to the sudden calm that had enveloped the area.

Obi-Wan, regaining his composure, looked around in astonishment. "This… this isn't Gojo's Non-Lethal Domain," he noted, his tone laced with confusion. "It's too… calm, too gentle. Gojo's Domain is more like a cityscape." He recalled Gojo's domain resembling a vast, bustling environment with towering structures and bright lights—a landscape reminiscent of a city like Tokyo, though neither he nor Qui-Gon had any frame of reference for such a place. They could only imagine it as a sprawling maze of light and towering stone unlike anything on Naboo.

Qui-Gon nodded, his gaze sweeping over the ethereal landscape. "No, it's not Gojo. He's still engaged in the battle above Naboo. This… this must be Suzunami's doing." A small smile appeared on his face, impressed by the unexpected display of power. "A Domain Expansion… he's capable of using such a high-level technique. Remarkable."

Obi-Wan's eyes widened, a newfound respect for Suzunami washing over him. "A Domain Expansion? From Suzunami? I never imagined… he's truly coming into his own."

Darth Maul, meanwhile, found himself momentarily thrown off balance by the abrupt shift in surroundings. He gripped his lightsaber tightly, his eyes darting between the serene environment and the Jedi. This wasn't the dark and menacing atmosphere he was accustomed to; the calm was disorienting, a light that cut through the chaos like a sharp blade.

What kind of sorcery is this? Maul thought, his mind racing. He could feel the force that held this place together, but it was unlike any Sith technique. It was not born from rage, nor was it fueled by the dark side's consuming hunger. It was calm, deliberate, and it pierced through his expectations like a blade through cloth. This power doesn't belong to the Sith, nor does it feel like the Jedi's light. It's something else, something… unnerving.

His frustration deepened, his understanding of the Force thrown into disarray by this gentle yet unyielding presence. Maul muttered under his breath, barely audible amidst the calm. "This isn't Sith… this isn't even Jedi. What kind of trick is this?" He clenched his teeth, struggling to maintain his composure as he resumed his assault, his movements sharp and aggressive, embodying the chaotic style of Juyo, Form VII.

Qui-Gon, his expression calm but determined, shifted into Ataru, Form IV, his strikes swift and precise, using the environment's tranquility to fuel his focus. Obi-Wan switched fluidly between Soresu, Form III, and Ataru, adjusting his stance as the battle demanded, his defense impenetrable yet ready to strike back at any opening.

Watching from a distance, Reika remained vigilant, hidden in the ethereal folds of Suzunami's domain. Even from her vantage point, the domain's influence enveloped her, and she couldn't help but smirk. "Heh… the brat that Sukuna praised for having a technique similar to his," she muttered to herself, her voice tinged with begrudging respect. "Pulling off a Domain Expansion like this… not bad. But my orders are the same—just keep watching."

As the silent duel continued within the Benevolent Altar, none of the combatants spoke; their focus remained solely on the fight. Maul's aggressive strikes met with the calculated parries of the Jedi, each move dictated by the unspoken rhythm of their deadly dance. Within this serene and foreign realm, Suzunami's power manifested as both a challenge and a testament to his resolve, leaving all who fought within it with a sense of unease, as if the very rules of their struggle had been rewritten.

However, after some time, the environment began to waver, the serene temple flickering as the Domain's power waned. In an instant, the Jedi and Maul were transported back to the stark, red-lit power generator pit of Theed. Obi-Wan, panting slightly, observed the shift with sharp eyes. "The burnout that Gojo mentioned must be starting to take its toll."

Qui-Gon nodded, still focused but contemplative. "Indeed. Suzunami is not Sukuna, nor is he Gojo. Those two exist on entirely different realms of power."

Maul, his focus sharp and keen, smiled inwardly, feeling the cursed power dissipate. Heh, the cursed world is finally disappearing, he thought, a twisted sense of triumph blooming within him. No matter how impressive, the young will always falter.

Reika, still watching from her stealthy position, rolled her eyes at the spectacle. "Whew… the brat finally learns the price of power. He's not Sukuna or Sensei—they are the only reasons beings like them stay at the top." Her gaze shifted sharply, noticing the escalating tension. "Anyway, someone get stabbed already , so I can join the game ."

After sometime at THEED - POWER GENERATOR ELECTRIC BEAM – HALLWAY The electric beams cycled in their relentless rhythm, casting pulsating walls of light that divided the corridor into sections of perilous traps. Qui-Gon Jinn knelt in meditation, his eyes closed and his breathing measured. He sat perfectly still, embracing the Force to center himself, his mind focused even as the battle raged on. The hum of the electron barriers filled the air, a constant reminder of the ticking clock between each confrontation.

Obi-Wan Kenobi, positioned behind another wall of the deadly rays, watched his master with a mix of anxiety and resolve. The path forward was clear, but the timing had to be perfect. The rays cycled once more, and as the barrier between Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon dissolved, Obi-Wan sprang into action, sprinting toward the next phase of the duel with Darth Maul.

In that fleeting moment, the wall between Qui-Gon and Darth Maul flickered away, granting them access to each other once more. Qui-Gon, fully recharged from his brief meditation, leapt up with a renewed ferocity that caught even Darth Maul by surprise. The Jedi Master's strikes were swift, purposeful, each one carrying the weight of his determination to end this battle. Lightsabers clashed, blue and red illuminating the narrow space as they danced around each other, their movements a deadly ballet of precision and power.

The two combatants moved deeper into the corridor, where it narrowed into the melting pit—a confined area dominated by a deep, cylindrical shaft that plunged into darkness. The space left little room for error, every step precarious as they fought around the yawning chasm.

Obi-Wan raced to join his master, his heart pounding with urgency, but the electron ray gates closed too quickly, sealing him off just one section short of his goal. He slid to a stop, narrowly avoiding the lethal barrier, and watched in helpless frustration as the fight continued without him.

Qui-Gon and Darth Maul circled the melting pit, their lightsabers casting sharp shadows against the walls. Maul's moves were aggressive, filled with a brutal elegance as he pressed the attack, his double-bladed lightsaber whirling with lethal intent. Qui-Gon, though momentarily on the defensive, maintained his composure, deflecting Maul's strikes with skill honed over years of battle. But the confined space offered little room to maneuver, each step a perilous dance on the edge of the abyss.

Obi-Wan's gaze was locked onto the duel, his knuckles white as he gripped the hilt of his lightsaber. The frustration of being unable to assist weighed heavily on him, his every instinct screaming to join the fray and aid his master.

Then, in a split second, the balance shifted. Darth Maul feigned a high strike before pivoting low, catching Qui-Gon off guard. With a swift move, Maul bashed the hilt of his lightsaber into Qui-Gon's chin, stunning the Jedi Master. Qui-Gon staggered, his guard dropping for just an instant—an instant too long.

Seizing the opening, Maul thrust his lightsaber forward with ruthless precision, the crimson blade piercing through Qui-Gon's stomach. The weapon burned through his robes and flesh, its deadly hum reverberating through the chamber as if marking the Jedi's imminent fall. Qui-Gon's eyes widened in a mix of pain and disbelief as the searing heat of the blade radiated from his core, his strength draining rapidly.

Maul held the position for a moment, a cold, triumphant sneer crossing his face as he twisted the lightsaber slightly, ensuring the maximum damage was done. Qui-Gon gasped, his breath hitching as he tried to muster the strength to continue, but the injury was too severe, the damage too deep. The Jedi Master's legs buckled beneath him, and he slumped to the floor, his lightsaber clattering uselessly beside him.

Obi-Wan watched in horror, his heart pounding against his ribcage as he screamed, "No!" The electron ray gates still separated him from the battle, trapping him behind a shimmering wall of deadly energy.

As Darth Maul raised his lightsaber, ready to deliver the final blow and decapitate Qui-Gon, a sudden force pushed him violently away, sending him stumbling back. Maul's sneer twisted into a snarl of frustration as he searched for the source of the interference. From above, Reika descended gracefully, her figure emerging from the shadows with a poised confidence.

"You know," Reika remarked coolly, her eyes narrowing at Maul, "striking someone down like that is just unfair." She moved swiftly to Qui-Gon's side, retrieving a vial filled with the glowing liquid of Locacaca 6251. With a deft motion, she uncorked the vial and poured the contents over Qui-Gon's wound. The liquid shimmered as it made contact, and in moments, Qui-Gon's grievous injury began to heal rapidly, the torn flesh knitting together as if by magic. The Jedi Master's eyes fluttered open, his breath returning as the burning pain faded away.

Obi-Wan, still trapped behind the electron ray gates, watched in amazement. Relief flooded his face as he saw his master restored to life. "Thank you," he said earnestly, his voice tinged with both gratitude and lingering shock. "I don't know how you did that, but… thank you."

Reika glanced back at Obi-Wan, her expression a mix of irritation and slight amusement. "This is why Sensei told you two to stick together," she said, her tone half-scolding, half-mocking. "Splitting up in the face of danger… not the smartest move, is it?"

Obi-Wan nodded, a wry smile forming despite the tension of the moment. "We'll remember that," he replied, his voice steadying as he watched Qui-Gon get back on his feet.

Qui-Gon, still catching his breath, looked at Reika with a blend of gratitude." Thank you reika " he replied as he steadying his footing 

Reika swiftly moved into action, pushing Qui-Gon with a firm but gentle force, sending him sliding safely towards Obi-Wan's position just as she deactivated the deadly electron ray gate. With a flick of her hand, the barrier reactivated, sealing herself inside the pit with Darth Maul while the Jedi were safely on the other side.

"Now it's my time to shine," Reika declared confidently, her stance shifting as she prepared to confront the Sith Lord. "You two get to be spectators for a change. You might learn something."

Obi-Wan caught Qui-Gon, steadying his master, who was still recovering from the effects of the Locacaca 6251. The Jedi watched in awe as Reika faced Maul, her presence commanding and unshaken.

Darth Maul narrowed his eyes, taken aback by the sudden shift in the battlefield. He had not expected this intervention, especially not from a Twi'lek. His double-bladed lightsaber spun to life again, casting a red glow that reflected off the metal walls, but he remained cautious, studying Reika with a mixture of suspicion and intrigue.

Reika smirked, her posture relaxed yet ready. "So, this is the infamous Sith assassin everyone's been talking about. You've got the whole 'Darth' title going on, huh? Sounds impressive, but I guess it's just a fancy label."

Maul's expression tightened, his yellow eyes blazing with barely contained fury. Her casual dismissal of his title struck a nerve, though he maintained his silence, his jaw clenched in restrained anger. His mind raced—how did she know about him? How much did she know? His usual confidence wavered slightly at the unexpected confrontation.

"You don't talk much, do you?" Reika continued, her voice taunting as she moved with fluid grace, each step measured and deliberate. "That's fine. Actions speak louder, anyway."

Without warning, Reika raised her hand, and bolts of blue Force lightning erupted from her fingertips, arcing through the air and striking Maul with a violent crackle. The sudden display of the dark power made Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon's eyes widen in shock. They exchanged bewildered glances, struggling to reconcile what they were witnessing. A Jedi using the dark side of the Force?

Darth Maul, still reeling from the surprise attack, snarled in disbelief as the lightning coursed through him. "How did you use the dark side of the Force? Even with all my training under my master, I've never been able to wield it like that!" Maul's voice was filled with a mixture of anger and confusion, his composure shaken for the first time.

Reika chuckled, her laughter echoing off the metallic walls with a mocking edge. "Kuhuhuhu… You Jedi and Sith think too much with your heads—rage, pain, discipline, all that crap. You overcomplicate it. The Force is just a tool, and you're too wrapped up in your philosophies to see it clearly." She smirked wider, enjoying the bewilderment on Maul's face. "But hey, look at that! The famous Darth Maul can talk! Who knew?"

Obi-Wan watched Reika's display with an uneasy mix of awe and concern. "Are we seeing a mini Gojo in action?" he muttered, casting a sidelong glance at Qui-Gon. "Because one of them is already a handful."

Qui-Gon nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful but tense. "Indeed… and it seems she's every bit as unpredictable. This is going to get complicated."

Reika stood confidently, her smirk growing as she ignited her lightsabers, the twin blades of purple and violet humming to life with a sharp, resonant sound. The colors were vibrant against the cold metallic backdrop, casting an eerie, otherworldly light that contrasted with Maul's crimson blade. Reika's posture remained relaxed, her stance fluid as she prepared to face the Sith Lord head-on.

Maul, his eyes burning with barely restrained fury, launched himself at Reika with a flurry of rapid strikes, each one intended to overpower and overwhelm. His form was aggressive, embodying the chaotic nature of Juyo, Form VII—an offensive style built on raw power and ferocity. But Reika, far from being intimidated, matched his intensity with her own formidable skills. She moved with a combination of Form VII's own aggressive counters and the precision and control of Form V, her twin blades dancing around Maul's strikes with practiced ease.

Her movements were graceful, almost playful, as she parried Maul's furious attacks. Reika's expression was one of exhilaration; she was clearly enjoying the challenge. Every clash of lightsabers brought a spark of joy to her eyes, as if each exchange were a game she was winning effortlessly. She spun and twisted, her purple and violet blades forming arcs of light that seemed to mock Maul's brute force.

Maul's irritation grew with every failed attempt to land a decisive blow. This Twi'lek, this mere child in his eyes, was not only matching his attacks but was doing so with an infuriating ease. His strikes became more erratic, frustration bubbling beneath his calm exterior as Reika's mocking smile never faltered. The Sith Lord, so used to having the upper hand through sheer aggression, found himself struggling against an opponent who seemed to dance just out of reach, countering every move with a mix of skill and mockery.

Reika laughed, her voice light and teasing as she effortlessly blocked another of Maul's powerful strikes. "Is this really all the mighty Sith assassin has to offer?" she taunted, her tone dripping with playful disdain. "I was expecting a real challenge. You're supposed to be Darth Maul, not Darth Flail."

Maul growled, his eyes narrowing as he pushed forward with renewed aggression. He aimed a series of rapid, punishing strikes at Reika, but she continued to weave through them, her twin blades deflecting his attacks with precision. She even went as far as to occasionally twirl her lightsabers in a flourish, clearly toying with him.

"You're just a child!" Maul snapped, his voice edged with incredulity and anger. "You think you can stand against a Sith Lord?"

Reika's grin widened, and she executed a swift, spinning maneuver that forced Maul back on the defensive. "Oh, I'm not just standing, I'm dancing," she quipped, her movements fluid and deliberate as she drove him back. "And from where I'm standing, it looks like you're struggling to keep up. Maybe it's time to retire that fancy title of yours, Darth."

With every taunt, Reika's confidence only seemed to grow, while Maul's composure frayed at the edges. He poured more of his fury into each strike, but the more he fought, the more it became clear that Reika wasn't just holding her ground—she was enjoying the fight, treating it as an opportunity to showcase her prowess.

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon watched from the sidelines, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and reluctant admiration. "She's every bit as unpredictable as Gojo," Obi-Wan murmured, shaking his head in awe. "We're in for a long day if this is the kind of ally he keeps."

Qui-Gon nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. She's fearless, and that makes her dangerous—to both her enemies and herself. But there's a recklessness in her approach, a lack of caution that could be her downfall. Power without restraint can burn just as fiercely as it shines."

Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon, concern etched on his face. "Do you think she can handle this? This Warrior Maul is relentless, and if she's not careful—"

"She's capable," Qui-Gon interrupted, his gaze fixed on Reika as she deftly maneuvered around this unknown warrior Maul's aggressive strikes. "But capability alone isn't enough. Discipline, control—these are just as crucial as power. And that's where her challenge lies."

On the battlefield, Reika continued to play with Maul's patience, her movements fluid and confident. She parried his blows with ease, her violet and purple lightsabers flashing brilliantly as they met M As the battle raged on, Reika continued to toy with Maul, her movements a seamless blend of elegance and raw power. Her violet and purple lightsabers clashed against Maul's crimson blade, sending sparks flying through the air. But then, with a sudden shift in her stance, Reika decided to take things up a notch.

Drawing on the dark side, Reika activated her ability known as the Embrace of Darkness. A sinister aura enveloped her, though she carefully contained it, directing its malevolent energy solely toward Maul. It was a technique reminiscent of Cal Kestis' use of the dark side—a powerful, focused manipulation of fear and pain, designed to overwhelm the mind of her target without letting it consume her.

A shadowy cage formed around Maul, intangible yet palpable, restricting his movements and clouding his senses. Maul's eyes widened as he felt the oppressive weight of Reika's dark side ability bearing down on him, constricting his every motion like invisible chains. The Sith struggled, his fury intensifying, but the more he fought against it, the tighter the grip became.

Reika, her eyes gleaming with dark amusement, extended her hands. Her lightsabers detached from her grip and floated beside her, humming ominously. She utilized Force Auto Pilot—a technique that allowed her to control the sabers remotely, setting them to defend and counter any threat automatically. The twin blades hovered, ready to strike down anything that dared approach or if Maul attempted to escape her dark cage.

Satisfied with her setup, Reika nonchalantly sat on the ground, crossing her legs as if she were settling in for a casual conversation rather than continuing a deadly duel. Her lightsabers hovered protectively around her, humming softly, while Maul struggled in the confines of her dark power, his frustration palpable. Reika's gaze, however, wasn't focused on the seething Sith Lord. Instead, she turned her attention to the stunned Jedi across the barrier.

"Alright, Jedi," she began with a smirk, her voice dripping with playful mockery. "I'm sure you've got a lot of questions—about how someone like me can use the dark side without you two even sensing it. You must be wondering how I manage to keep my cool, huh? Not getting corrupted, unlike our friend here who's rocking those classic Sith eyes."

Reika glanced over at Maul, his yellow eyes blazing with fury, then back to the Jedi with a shrug. "Nice aesthetic, I guess, but I'm kind of fond of my purple eyes. You know, my way of saying you don't have to lose yourself to use power effectively."

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan exchanged glances, both puzzled and intrigued. Obi-Wan's brow furrowed as he tried to make sense of Reika's words. "How… how are you able to wield the dark side so freely without falling into its grasp?" he asked, his tone filled with genuine curiosity. "The Sith rely on rage, hatred, pain. It's a path that consumes—"

Reika leaned back, resting her hands on the floor as she listened to Obi-Wan's question, a playful glint in her eyes. "Must we get mad and act like blind idiots?" she retorted, her tone both mocking and philosophical. "Sure, rage can be powerful, but it's also a double-edged sword. If we get too caught up in it, we become predictable, easy to manipulate. But what if you're just… happy enough in every battle? A little excitement, a little thrill—it's called battle lust, and that's just as negative, right? It's all about balance, Jedi. Emotions aren't inherently evil; it's about how you use them."

She then turned her gaze back to Maul, who still seethed within her force cage. Her smirk widened, her eyes narrowing with a mixture of amusement and contempt. "Look at you, all riled up but still stuck. You're weak," she taunted, her voice cutting like a blade. "You let your rage blind you, make you think it's the only way to be strong. But strength isn't about how mad you can get; it's about control."

Maul's face twisted in fury, his eyes blazing as he strained against the invisible barrier holding him. The Sith Lord snarled, his pride stung by Reika's words, but no amount of anger seemed to aid his escape. He was trapped, his power ineffective against the force that bound him.

Obi-Wan, watching the scene unfold, shook his head in disbelief. "It must be Gojo," he muttered, half to himself and half to Qui-Gon. "He's probably bending the rules again, finding some loophole we can't even begin to understand."

Qui-Gon, who had been observing Reika with a curious, almost amused expression, let out a soft chuckle. "Ah, Gojo… he does have a knack for attracting the unconventional, doesn't he?" He smirked, a wry smile crossing his lips as he considered the implications. "I suppose we should have expected nothing less from one of his disciples. They seem to thrive on defying expectations—and common sense."

Maul, still burning with rage, saw an opportunity and lashed out with the Force, shoving one of Reika's hovering lightsabers—the purple one—into the wall with a resounding crash. He smirked, his silence speaking volumes as if to taunt Reika with his minor victory.

Reika's playful demeanor vanished instantly. Her gaze hardened, and without hesitation, she deactivated the Force barrier that had held Maul. The Sith's expression flickered with confusion; he hadn't expected this sudden shift in the fight's dynamics.

"What's the matter?" Reika asked, her voice flat, her eyes narrowing with intent. She casually threw her remaining violet lightsaber like a javelin, the blade whizzing past Maul's face, narrowly missing him. Maul flinched, taken aback by the near miss.

"Are you mocking me?" Maul snarled, his voice dripping with venom. He ignited his double-bladed lightsaber again, the red glow intensifying as his frustration reached a boiling point.

Reika smirked, her stance shifting as she cracked her knuckles. "Mocking you? Nah." She leaned forward, her expression deadly serious. "I just want you to catch these hands."

Maul's anger surged, and he launched himself at Reika, cycling through a flurry of lightsaber techniques. He switched fluidly between Juyo, Niman, and even a few flourishes from Ataru, his movements a deadly blur of crimson arcs designed to overwhelm and annihilate. Each strike was precise, powerful, intended to cut through any defense Reika might put up.

But Reika was ready. She sidestepped Maul's initial barrage, ducking under a horizontal slash that could have decapitated her. With a sudden burst of speed, she closed the distance, her movements a seamless dance around Maul's aggressive attacks.

She slipped under another strike, twisting her body with fluid grace, and then—without warning—delivered a fierce punch to Maul's gut. The impact was brutal, knocking the wind out of him as her fist connected with his torso. Maul gasped, his grip faltering as he staggered back, trying to recover from the unexpected blow.

Reika didn't give Maul a moment to recover. She pressed her advantage, her strikes relentless and precise, exploiting every gap in his defense. Each punch landed with purpose, her movements fluid and powerful, as if she had studied Maul's every weakness. Then, with a sudden surge of energy, Reika coated her fists in crackling blue lightning, enhancing her blows with the devastating power of the Force.

As her electrified punch connected with Maul's ribs, the Sith Lord let out a pained snarl, the jolt sending shockwaves through his body. He stumbled back, struggling to maintain his stance, his composure shattered by the sheer unexpectedness of the attack.

Obi-Wan, watching from the sidelines, couldn't contain his astonishment. "Is she, did she just create a new technique?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief. "Lightning-coated fists? That's not in any Sith or Jedi records I've ever seen."

Qui-Gon, observing Reika's battle with a mix of admiration and caution, simply nodded, his expression thoughtful. "No," he said calmly, his eyes never leaving Reika. "She's not creating something new—she's bending the rules. Just like Gojo."

Obi-Wan glanced at Qui-Gon, his concern deepening. "Bending the rules… in what way? This kind of power, it's unorthodox even for the Sith."

Qui-Gon gave a small, knowing smile. "Reika's approach isn't bound by the conventional teachings of either the Jedi or the Sith. She's not limited by the dichotomy of light and dark. She's seen how Gojo operates—finding ways to do the impossible by disregarding the constraints that others take as absolute. It's both her strength and her greatest danger."

Reika continued her assault, her lightning-infused strikes pushing Maul further into a defensive stance. She moved with a confidence that bordered on reckless, her fists blazing as they cut through the air with electrified precision. Maul's attempts to counter were met with brutal efficiency, his every strike parried, his every defense shattered.

Maul, driven to the brink by his mounting frustration and desperation, tapped into the depths of his anger, activating Force Rage. His muscles surged with dark energy, veins pulsing as his strength and speed amplified far beyond their normal limits. The dark side of the Force coursed through him like a torrent, enhancing his every move with a furious, almost primal power. His strikes became faster, more aggressive, and each blow landed with a force that could shatter stone. For a moment, it seemed as though Maul had finally found the edge he needed.

He lunged at Reika, his enhanced speed making him almost a blur. His lightsaber swung with vicious intent, aiming to cleave through her defenses. Reika, caught slightly off guard, narrowly dodged the attack, the blade grazing her cheek and singeing the air with its intensity.

Reika simply smiled, unfazed by the near miss. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and mischief as she pulled back slightly, a playful glint dancing in her gaze. "Oh, you're getting better," she taunted, her voice dripping with mock admiration. "You almost got me there."

With a flourish, Reika gathered the crackling energy of her Force lightning into her palm, molding it into a spear-like form. The lightning spear buzzed with deadly intent, glowing with a fierce blue light that reflected in Maul's eyes. She launched it at him with a precise throw, the spear streaking through the air with blinding speed.

Maul barely managed to deflect the lightning spear with his lightsaber, the impact sending a sharp jolt up his arms. He gritted his teeth, his eyes narrowing in fierce concentration, realizing that he was facing a foe who thrived in the chaos just as much as he did. But Reika wasn't done yet. She clapped her hands, a sound that echoed ominously through the chamber.

"Congratulations, Maul," Reika said, her tone half-mocking, half-serious. "You almost had my life there. Looks like I have to get serious now."

With a dramatic flick of her wrist, Reika activated her third lightsaber—a dark, ancient-looking blade that emitted a strange, pulsating energy unlike any other. The Darksaber's black blade ignited with a low hum, its edge rimmed with a faint white glow that seemed to absorb light rather than emit it. The sight of the Darksaber left everyone in stunned silence, its presence immediately commanding the room.

Maul's eyes widened, recognition flickering across his face. "The Darksaber… Isn't that supposed to belong to the Mandalorians? Or at the very least, it should be in the Jedi Temple by now!" he thought, his mind racing. The ancient weapon, a symbol of Mandalorian leadership and one of the most unique lightsabers ever created, had no place in the hands of this enigmatic Twi'lek.

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon exchanged bewildered looks, both struggling to comprehend what they were witnessing. Obi-Wan, trying to piece together his fragmented knowledge of lightsabers, voiced his confusion. "Is that—are there lightsabers that have… that kind of color?"

Qui-Gon, deep in thought, nodded slowly. "The Darksaber… I've read about it in the archives. It was crafted by Tarre Vizsla, the first Mandalorian Jedi. It's said to have a blade that's not just black, but one that seems to devour light itself. It was once kept in the Jedi Temple, but its fate after the Mandalorian Wars was… uncertain."

As Reika faced Maul, a flashback played in her mind—Gojo's voice echoing in her memory, filled with that unmistakable mix of amusement and challenge. "I'll give you the advanced Darksaber, far superior to what the Mandalorians or Death Watch currently possess," Gojo had said, his tone light but laced with the usual playful menace. "But consider this an ongoing game; I've sealed one of its abilities. I'll unlock it once you manage to land a blow on me." Reika had felt a thrill of anticipation then, knowing that her training with Gojo would always push her beyond her limits.

Now, facing Darth Maul, Reika's excitement surged. Her grip tightened on the Darksaber's hilt, and she let her energy flow into the blade, imbuing it with crackling Force lightning. The dark, pulsing blade flared with a fierce intensity, the lightning dancing along its edges, making the weapon seem even more menacing.

Reika's eyes gleamed with exhilaration as she swung the enhanced Darksaber in a wide arc, its humming resonance filling the chamber with an almost palpable sense of power. "Darth Maul," she shouted, her voice ringing with an electrifying confidence, "thank you for pushing me this far. In return, I'll give you a beautiful death!"

Maul, still reeling from the sight of the lightning-charged Darksaber, could only manage a muttered, "Crazy bitch…" His voice dripped with a mix of contempt and grudging respect, his focus now entirely on the duel that had escalated beyond his initial expectations.

As Reika and Maul's intense duel reached its peak, their furious exchange of blows was suddenly interrupted by Obi-Wan, who had managed to slip past the deactivated the deadly electron ray gate that had previously separated him from the fight. Maul's eyes flickered in surprise, and Reika paused, her attention shifting to the Jedi Knight now standing between them.

Reika tilted her head, a bemused expression crossing her face as she took in the unexpected turn. "Oh, for a moment there, the barrier deactivated, huh?" she observed, her tone laced with casual curiosity. Her gaze sharpened as she looked at Obi-Wan, who had ignited his blue lightsaber, positioning himself with determination. "You sure about this, Brother Obi-Wan? Maul's using Force Rage—his power is heightened, and the chances of him overpowering you are high."

Obi-Wan, ever resolute and steadfast in his belief in the Jedi way, gave Reika a determined nod. "I'm sure," he replied, his voice calm but firm. "The Jedi way is about more than just power. It's about control, balance, and the light. I intend to prove that the Jedi can overcome the darkness, no matter the odds."

Reika sighed, amused yet somewhat skeptical of Obi-Wan's resolve. She deactivated her Darksaber, clipping it back to her belt, and swiftly gathered all the lightsabers that had been scattered around the chamber during their fight. She then deactivated the the deadly electron ray gate completely, stepping back to join Qui-Gon at the sidelines, her expression a mixture of curiosity and mild irritation.

Settling down beside Qui-Gon, Reika crossed her legs and leaned back, watching Obi-Wan intently. Her playful demeanor returned as she called out, taunting the young Jedi. "You better not die, Obi-Wan! If you do, I swear I'll kill you myself." Her voice carried a mix of jest and genuine concern, her eyes gleaming with a mischievous glint.

Qui-Gon chuckled softly beside her, his gaze following Obi-Wan as he squared off against Maul. "He's stubborn, that one," he remarked, his tone light but respectful. "Always has been."

Reika smirked, glancing at Qui-Gon. "Stubborn or not, he's got guts. But this isn't a game, and Maul's not one to be taken lightly, especially in his current state."

Obi-Wan, hearing Reika's banter, focused himself, blocking out the noise. He knew the risks—Maul was a formidable opponent, especially now fueled by the raw intensity of Force Rage. But Obi-Wan had his own strengths: the discipline and serenity of the Jedi, the teachings of his master, and an unwavering belief in the light.

Maul sneered, his eyes narrowing as he glared at Obi-Wan. "That bitch had a better chance than you, Obi-Wan. The name of a Jedi who can't see his own impending defeat—how foolish. I'll remember your name as the one who ignored the obvious." His voice dripped with contempt, each word a taunt meant to unsettle and provoke.

Obi-Wan met Maul's gaze, unflinching, his grip tightening on his lightsaber. "Oh, so you'll talk to me too, huh, Darth Maul? I must be making an impression. It's not every day a Sith assassin grants recognition to a Jedi." Obi-Wan's tone was calm, yet there was a hint of defiance that needled at Maul, pushing his irritation to a boiling point.

Maul's face twisted in anger, his teeth bared in a snarl. He lunged at Obi-Wan with renewed fury, activating Juyo, the seventh form of lightsaber combat. Known for its unpredictable and aggressive style, Juyo allowed Maul to channel his rage into every strike, making his movements wild, relentless, and brutally powerful.

Obi-Wan braced himself, shifting into a defensive stance, ready to counter Maul's onslaught. The Sith Lord's attacks were a flurry of rapid, chaotic strikes, each blow coming from unexpected angles. The red blade of Maul's double-bladed lightsaber spun and whirled, the weapon a blur of crimson as it sought to overwhelm Obi-Wan's defenses.

Obi-Wan's lightsaber met Maul's with a flash of blue and red, the two blades clashing with explosive energy. Obi-Wan moved with fluid grace, his Soresu form—a defensive lightsaber style—allowing him to expertly parry and deflect Maul's vicious strikes. But Maul's Juyo was unpredictable, his strikes increasingly wild and forceful, forcing Obi-Wan to continually adjust and adapt.

The chamber echoed with the sounds of their duel, the hum and crackle of lightsabers filling the air. Obi-Wan's focus was razor-sharp, his movements precise as he fought to hold his ground against Maul's unrelenting assault. But the Force Rage was giving Maul an edge, pushing him to the brink of his physical limits while amplifying his attacks.

Maul pressed harder, his strikes coming faster, his attacks more erratic. Obi-Wan found himself on the defensive, backing up under the sheer ferocity of Maul's assault. A vicious overhead strike nearly knocked Obi-Wan's lightsaber from his grip, and Maul followed up with a spinning kick that sent the Jedi stumbling back, dangerously close to the edge of the platform.

Obi-Wan steadied himself, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Maul, sensing an opportunity, charged forward with a flurry of strikes, each one aimed to end the duel decisively. Obi-Wan ducked and weaved, narrowly avoiding the searing blade of Maul's lightsaber, but he could feel the tide of the battle turning against him.

In a desperate maneuver, Obi-Wan leaped over Maul, his blue blade arcing in a wide sweep that forced Maul to pivot sharply. The movement disrupted Maul's rhythm, and in that split second, Obi-Wan seized his chance. He angled his blade and delivered a precise strike to the hilt of Maul's double-bladed lightsaber.

There was a flash of sparks, and half of Maul's weapon was severed, the crimson blade sputtering out of existence. Maul stumbled back, momentarily stunned by the loss of his weapon's advantage. His sneer faded, replaced by a snarl of frustration as he switched his grip to the remaining half of his lightsaber, now wielding it as a single blade.

Obi-Wan smirked, his confidence bolstered by the small victory. "Looks like you've lost your edge, Maul."

Maul's expression darkened, his yellow eyes blazing with fury. "You're still going to die, Jedi," he spat, his voice low and menacing.

Maul's rage burned hotter, he launched a final, ferocious attack on Obi-Wan, his single-bladed lightsaber flashing in deadly arcs. Obi-Wan, caught off guard by the Sith's sudden burst of speed, struggled to keep up with Maul's relentless assault. A cunning feint and a swift, unexpected strike to Obi-Wan's legs sent him tumbling backward. Maul's advantage was clear as he kicked Obi-Wan's lightsaber from his grasp, the blue blade spiraling down into the endless shaft below. Obi-Wan clung desperately to the edge of the platform, his fingers barely holding on.

Turning to face Qui-Gon and Reika, Maul's expression twisted into a triumphant sneer. "After I kill your apprentice," he taunted, his voice dripping with malice, "I'll make sure the master is dead for good this time. And as for you," he snarled, pointing his blade toward Reika, "crazy bitch—we'll have our rematch soon enough."

Reika, unfazed by Maul's threat, simply laughed, her voice ringing through the chamber. "Oh no, Maul," she mocked, shaking her head with a mischievous smile. "You're the one who's gonna end up split in two, just like… well, just like Ma slash ul."

Maul's eyes flickered with confusion and annoyance at her words, his arrogance unshaken as he turned his attention back to Obi-Wan, ready to deal the final blow.

Qui-Gon, however, remained calm, his confidence in his apprentice unwavering. "You underestimate Obi-Wan," he said, his voice steady and filled with conviction. "He will defeat you, Maul. You've already lost."

Obi-Wan, hanging by his fingertips, heard his master's words and felt a surge of determination. Summoning the Force, he propelled himself upward, flipping over Maul with a burst of speed and agility that caught the Sith off guard. As he landed behind Maul, Obi-Wan called on the Force once more, summoning Qui-Gon's discarded lightsaber from the floor.

With a swift, decisive strike, Obi-Wan slashed through Maul's midsection, the green blade cutting cleanly through the Sith Lord's torso. Maul's eyes widened in shock, his sneer frozen on his face as his body split in two, each half tumbling down the same endless shaft he had taunted Obi-Wan over just moments before.

Reika, still lounging casually, couldn't resist one last jab as Maul's severed halves plummeted into the abyss. "You know, Maul," she called out mockingly, her voice echoing in the now quiet chamber, "you're worth remembering—not as Darth Maul, but as Ma-slash-ul, since you're split in two! I promise, I'll never forget you as long as I live."

Qui-Gon, who had been watching the entire scene with a mix of pride for Obi-Wan and a serene acceptance of Maul's fate, stepped forward. His calm demeanor was unwavering as he addressed the vanquished Sith, even though Maul could no longer hear him. "Your hate was your downfall, Maul," Qui-Gon said softly, his voice carrying the weight of a lesson learned too late. "You were blinded by your anger and your quest for power. In the end, it was not the strength of your rage that undid you, but the clarity and resolve of the light."

Obi-Wan, still catching his breath, stood at the edge, the hum of Qui-Gon's lightsaber still resonating in his hand. He deactivated the weapon and handed it back to Qui-Gon, who accepted it with a nod of approval. The two Jedi shared a brief, silent moment of understanding and respect, their bond strengthened by the shared battle.

Reika approached them, her steps light as she joined Qui-Gon at the sidelines. She gave Obi-Wan a playful nudge. "Nice save, Brother Obi-Wan. Looks like the Jedi way isn't as stiff as I thought," she teased, though there was genuine respect in her tone.

Obi-Wan managed a tired smile, glancing at Reika. "Thank you, Reika. But before we move on—how did you know that this unknown warrior was a Sith assassin, a Darth, and even his true name, Maul? Did you keep watching us just in case something went wrong?"

Qui-Gon, equally curious, added, "It seems you've been keeping a closer eye on us than we realized. Was this part of some larger plan?"

Reika chuckled, her expression light yet teasing. "Oh, it was all Sensei's orders. He figured you guys might need a bit of oversight, especially since you tend to get separated at the worst times." She gave them both a knowing look. "Sensei's got a knack for anticipating these things. As for Maul's name and all that Sith stuff, let's just say Sensei's sources are… unique."

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon exchanged glances, piecing together the hints Reika had dropped. They recalled Gojo's recent actions on Coruscant and his cryptic references to the Pool of Knowledge—a mysterious, ancient well of information. They remembered how Gojo had casually mentioned drinking from its depths, a brazen move that likely granted him names of his allies .

"So, it's the Pool of Knowledge," Obi-Wan mused aloud, the realization dawning on him. "Gojo mentioned it back on Coruscant. He hinted at knowing things—things he shouldn't have access to. Names, details… of friends and foes alike."

Qui-Gon nodded thoughtfully, his gaze drifting as he considered the implications. "It all makes sense now. Gojo has been leveraging knowledge that reaches beyond our understanding. It's not just power that makes him formidable, but the depth of his awareness. He's playing a different game entirely."

Reika shrugged with a playful smile. "You could say that. Sensei's always ahead of the curve, seeing the moves no one else can. But hey, you both survived, didn't you? That's what matters." She winked at them. "And now, you've got a story to tell about how a certain crazy Twi'lek saved the day."

Obi-Wan shook his head, though a genuine smile spread across his face. "Indeed, Reika. We owe you one. And maybe… maybe there's more to learn from your way of doing things than we realized."

Qui-Gon placed a hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder, a proud, fatherly look in his eyes. "You've done well, Obi-Wan. Today, you've proven that the Jedi way still holds strong, even in the face of such darkness. And perhaps," he glanced at Reika, his tone gentle, "we've also learned that strength and wisdom can come from the most unexpected of places."

Reika laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with a mix of mischief and sincerity. "Well, don't get too used to my help, Jedi. I'm not always going to be there to bail you out." She turned, giving them a final wave. "But for now, let's call it even. I've got my own adventures to chase, and you've got a galaxy to save."

When Reika was about turned to leave, Obi-Wan called after her, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Wait, Reika—why do you keep calling me 'older brother'? We're not related, and you're not even part of the Jedi Order."

Reika paused, glancing back at him with an amused smile. "Oh, that's simple," she replied, crossing her arms. "You're 'older brother' because, in lightsaber teaching at the very least, you've been at it far longer than I have. And also," she added with a sly grin, "you're a trickster type. I hate fighting tricksters; they're a pain. If I ever had to fight you, I'd have to prepare a lot just to make it a draw."

Obi-Wan couldn't help but feel a surge of pride at her words, his chest puffing out slightly as he stood a bit taller. Being acknowledged, even in such an unconventional way, by someone like Reika felt like a compliment of the highest order. "Well, I'm glad to hear that," he said with a smirk. "If I've made that kind of impression, I must be doing something right."

Qui-Gon watched the exchange with a knowing smile, ever the serene observer. "It seems you've made quite the impression, Obi-Wan," he remarked, his tone light and approving. "It's not every day you're recognized for your prowess by someone who bends the rules as freely as Reika does."

Reika chuckled, giving them a mock salute before turning away once more. "Yeah, yeah, don't let it go to your head, Obi-Wan. And you, Qui-Gon—keep him in line. We can't have the galaxy's most promising trickster getting too cocky."

As Reika finally disappeared into the shadows, Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon stood together, sharing a moment of quiet reflection. Obi-Wan felt a renewed sense of confidence, bolstered not just by the battle but by the unexpected camaraderie with Reika. He knew the path ahead would be filled with challenges, but for now, he felt prepared to face them—strengthened by his master's guidance and the unorthodox allies they had gained along the way.

Qui-Gon placed a reassuring hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder, his calm demeanor radiating a quiet pride. "You've grown, Obi-Wan. Not just as a Jedi, but as a person. Today, you've proven that wisdom and strength come in many forms—even from those we least expect."

Obi-Wan nodded, taking in his master's words with a sense of fulfillment. "Thank you, Master. And thank you for believing in me, even when I falter."

Qui-Gon smiled, his gaze warm and fatherly. "Always, Obi-Wan. Always."

As Padmé, Yukinami, Captain Panaka, Anakin, Sabé, and Shmi marched through the grand halls of Theed Castle, they were joined by the resilient forces of Naboo and the Gungan army led by Jar Jar Binks. Sabé, still carrying Suzunami like a princess, kept pace with the determined group—a sight that would have been comical if not for the urgency of their mission. They finally reached the royal chamber, where Nute Gunray and Rune Haako had barricaded themselves, hoping to hold off the inevitable.

Suddenly, Suzunami stirred in Sabé's arms, his eyes flickering open with a renewed sense of purpose. He wriggled free, landing on his feet with a slight stumble but quickly steadied himself. Yukinami rushed to his side, her concern evident as she reached out to him. "Are you sure you're okay, Suzunami? You're still burnt out from using your Domain—"

Suzunami gave a reassuring smile, brushing off his sister's worries. "I'm fine. I've got this." He stepped forward, his gaze locked on the thick, reinforced door that stood between them and the cowering Neimoidians.

Approaching the door, Suzunami raised his hand, placing his palm flat against the cool metal. The familiar glow of his Altar Technique activated, lines of intricate symbols lighting up beneath his touch. With a focused exhale, he channeled his remaining energy into the door, his power flowing through the surface. A soft hum resonated as his technique took effect, slicing through the barrier with the precision of a surgeon's scalpel.

The door fell apart in neat, clean sections, each piece clattering to the floor and revealing the wide-eyed figures of Nute Gunray and Rune Haako, who stood behind their makeshift barricade, utterly defenseless. Gunray's usually pale complexion blanched even further, his eyes darting around in a futile search for an escape.

"This… this isn't possible!" Gunray stammered, his voice shaking with panic. "They breached the door so easily!"

Haako, equally terrified, clutched at his robes. "We can't hold them off! We're trapped!"

Padmé stepped into the room with an air of authority, her resolve unwavering as she confronted the two Neimoidians. "Viceroy Gunray, Rune Haako, it's over," she declared, her tone firm and resolute. "Your blockade has failed. Your invasion is finished. Surrender now, and you may still have a chance to answer for your actions."

Gunray, realizing there was no way out, dropped to his knees, his fear palpable. "We surrender! We surrender! Just don't hurt us!" he pleaded, his voice breaking under the weight of his defeat.

But even in his defeat, Gunray couldn't resist one last taunt. "Is that what you want me to say? There are still my armies on the control Lucrehulk. You can't—"

Suddenly, a large ethereal screen appeared in the air, shimmering with an otherworldly glow. The screen displayed a live feed of the Lucrehulk's command center, now under the control of Wonder of U. The commanding officer, Dofine, was shown bound and subdued, his expression one of utter defeat.

Wonder of U appeared on the screen, his presence looming over Dofine. "He gave me control of the Lucrehulk in exchange for his life. A profitable relationship, wouldn't you agree?" Wonder of U's tone was calm and calculating, his expression inscrutable as he glanced at the helpless Neimoidian.

Gunray's face turned even paler, his hope crumbling as he watched his last line of defense fall into enemy hands. Rune Haako, however, wasn't ready to give up. His eyes blazed with anger as he shouted defiantly, "There are still ten more Lucrehulks in orbit above Naboo! They'll come here and crush you all!"

As if on cue, another ethereal screen materialized beside the first, displaying a breathtaking view of space above Naboo. Two of the massive Lucrehulks were shown exploding spectacularly, debris scattering across the void as they were dismantled piece by piece. It was a chilling display of power and precision, and everyone in the room knew exactly who was behind it.

Padmé's eyes widened for a moment before she smiled, understanding the implication. "Looks like we're in for a show," she said, her tone carrying a hint of satisfaction. "Let's watch Gojo's performance in dismantling your armies, shall we?"

The screen continued to display Gojo's handiwork in space. He moved with impossible speed and grace, his techniques tearing through the Lucrehulks with a combination of raw power and strategic brilliance. Explosions erupted across the ships, each one a testament to Gojo's overwhelming strength and mastery of his abilities. With every flick of his hand, another section of the enemy fleet was reduced to wreckage.

The room fell silent, save for the distant sounds of battle from the screens. Gunray and Haako could only watch in stunned horror as their fleet, their last hope for victory, was systematically obliterated by Gojo's unrelenting assault.

Suzunami, still catching his breath from his earlier exertion, looked on with a faint smile. "Guess there's no escaping sensei wrath," he murmured, his voice tinged with both awe and exhaustion.

Yukinami nodded beside him, her expression a mix of pride and relief. "It's over for them. They never stood a chance."

Padmé turned to her group, her confidence renewed by the unfolding events. "This is the end of the Trade Federation's invasion," she declared, her voice carrying the weight of a leader who had finally reclaimed her home. "With Gojo and Wonder of U on our side, we will ensure that Naboo remains free."

As the screens continued to display the systematic dismantling of the Neimoidian fleet.