The Gungan
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TRADE FEDERATION BATTLESHIP - BRIDGE
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Gunray and Haako were waiting for news of the Jedi's death or discovery when their attention was drawn towards Tey How to turned to face them.
Tey How: "Sir, we're receiving a transmission from the surface."
The giant screen mounted on the wall inside then bridge then turned from its blank state into the image of a painted woman wearing a large extravagant red dress and a crown that seemed to be embroidered into her hair. Gunray and Haako's eyes widened as they realized it was none other than the queen of the Naboo, Queen Amidala.
Haako: "It's Queen Amidala herself."
Gunray smirked.
Gunray: "At last we're getting results."
Gunray took a few steps forward with over pride practically dripping out of his voice as he spoke.
Gunray: "Again you come before us, your highness."
Queen Amidala *On Screen*: "You will not be so pleased when you hear what I have to say, Viceroy. Your trade boycott of our planet has ended."
Gunray smirks even more as he and Haako look at each other, the smirk on Gunray's face still heavily on his face before looking back to the image of the young yet beautiful queen.
Gunray: "I was not aware of such failure."
Queen Amidala *On Screen*: "I have word that the Chancellor's Ambassadors are with you now... and that you have been commanded to reach a settlement."
Gunray: "I know nothing of any Ambassadors... you must be mistaken."
The queen of the Naboo, surprised at the level of calm and collectiveness in Gunray's reaction as well as the information that the Ambassadors had not even arrived, began to study the Trade Federation Viceroy carefully as she began to wonder what exactly Gunray was after... and hope that whatever it was that her people would be spared.
Queen Amidala *On Screen*: beware Viceroy... the Federation has gone too far this time."
Gunray: "We would never do anything without the approval of the Senate. You assume too much."
Queen Amidala's eyes narrowed at the Viceroy as she could unlike before tell that he was lying as the Chancellor himself said otherwise.
Queen Amidala *On Screen*: "We will see."
The queen fades out of the screen with the wall mounted screen returning to its blank look as Haako then looks at Gunray.
Haako: "She's right, the Senate will never..."
Gunray knowing exactly what Haako was getting at was beginning to grow irritated at all the problems they still had to work out as he angerly cut off Haako.
Gunray: "It's too late now."
Haako: "Do you think she suspects an attack?"
Gunray: "I don't know, but we must move quickly to disrupt all communications down there."
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NABOO: THEED PALACE - THRONE ROOM
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The queen, Eirtae, Sache, Sabe, and her Governor: Sio Bibble stand before a hologram of Senator Sheeve Palpatine, a thin and kindly man who'd served for many years as the Naboo's voice in the Grand Republic Senate. Beside the queen stood the captain of her guard, Captain Panaka who stood tall and proud as he dutifully served his queen.
Palpatine: "....The negotiations haven't started because the Ambassadors aren't there? How could that be true? I have assurances from the Chancellor that his Ambassadors did arrive. t must be the...get...negotiate."
Looks of worry and confusion filled the faces of those gathered in the room as they watched Senator Palpatine's hologram begin to sputter as he continued to try and speak for it eventually fade and cuts off completely as Queen Amidala looked at the now jammed transmission of Senator Palpatine with concern.
Queen Amidala: "Senator Palpatine?"
The young queen in confusion turns to Panaka looking for an explanation.
Queen Amidala: "What's happening?"
Captain Panaka turned to his right where his sergeant who was standing a few yards away from him stood.
Panaka: "Check the transmission generators..."
The Sergeant nodded to the captain before walking off along with a few other guards towards where the main power to the palace was located.
Bibble: "A communications disruption can only mean one thing. Invasion."
Queen Amidala: "The Federation would not dare to go that far."
Panaka: "The Senate would revoke their trade franchise and they'd be finished."
Queen Amidala: "We must continue to rely on negotiations."
The queen's tone was calm as she tried her best to keep a level head in this trying time yet deep down the queen was afraid just as everyone else in the room was. All she could do was hope that the Ambassadors, would somehow arrive and force the Viceroy to leave as without them all hope was lost.
Bibble: "Negotiation? We've lost all communications. And where are the Chancellors Ambassadors!?"
Panaka turned to face the queen with a slight amount of worry.
Panaka: "This is a dangerous situation, Your Highness. Our security volunteers will be no match against a battle hardened Federation Army."
Queen Amidala: "I will not condone a course of action that will lead us to war."
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NABOO - ORBIT
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Dozens upon dozens of Trade Federation C-9979 Landing Crafts were currently entering the Naboo atmosphere, in them over thousand droids along with tanks and droid carriers.
Three of these landing crafts slowly descend through the cloud cover of the perpetually gray twilight side of the planet. One by one the Federation Landing Crafts landed in the eerie swamps with troops by the thousands emerging from each of the ships in taks, transports, and speeders.
The droid invasion force moved throughout the swamps, destroying trees, plant life, and any lifeform that got in their way to Theed with no regard to the innocents of the life that lived within the swamps. Eventually the army made its way to the grassy plains, spreading out further into a full marching force.
A B1 droid commander, similar to the droid destroyed by Y/N in Trade Federation Battleship was standing inside the top of the two control areas a droid can sit in a AAT Trade Federation armored tank when a beeping was then heard from his hologram projector causing the droid commander to active it bring to life the holographic image to Nute Gunray as well as Rune Haako.
B1 Droid Commander: "Yes, Viceroy?"
Haako: "Captain, we've searched the ship and there is no trace of the Jedi. They may have gotten onto one of your landing crafts."
The droid commander nodded to the Viceroys second in command.
B1 Commander: "If they're down here, sir, we'll find them."
Gunray: "Use caution. These Jedi are not to be underestimated."
With a swift nod the commander turned off the hologram and put it away, unaware that they had already found them or rather one of them and didn't even know it yet as young Y/N dashed through the dense forest, his breath steady as he deflected the blaster fire that rained down upon him. The three Single Trooper Aerial Platforms that were chasing him pursued him relentlessly, their mounted blasters lighting up the dim canopy above with crimson streaks of energy. The echoes of battle filled the forest, birds and smaller creatures scattering in fear.
Though the droids were formidable in numbers, their aerial advantage meant little to Y/N. The battle had begun with six of them, yet only three remained, the others having already fallen to his swift and calculated strikes.
Ahead, a decaying tree trunk, thick and rotting, stood in his path. Thirty feet away—perfect. Without breaking stride, Y/N stretched out his left hand, the Force thrumming through his veins as he gripped the massive object with his mind. His right hand remained firm around his ignited lightsaber, the magenta glow reflecting off the bark and leaves around him. With a sharp exhale, he hurled the dead trunk backward at breakneck speed, launching it straight toward his pursuers.
The first droid veered sharply to the side, narrowly avoiding the projectile. The second, however, wasn't as lucky.
B1-2786: "Oh no—!"
The droid's metallic voice cut off as the airborne log struck the aerial platform dead-on. A fiery explosion erupted in mid-air, sending shrapnel and scorched metal flying in all directions. The shockwave disoriented the third droid, causing it to swerve uncontrollably. Its fate was sealed when its blurred vision cleared just in time to see an enormous tree directly in its path. The droid let out a panicked shriek before colliding headfirst into the massive trunk, detonating in a burst of flame and debris.
Only one remained.
Y/N slowed his pace, spotting a small clearing up ahead. The soft earth beneath his boots gave way slightly as he came to a halt, exhaling as he turned to face his final adversary. The droid hesitated for only a moment before opening fire, its blaster bolts streaking toward him.
Y/N raised his saber, twirling it in precise, fluid movements, each strike redirecting the blaster shots harmlessly into the surrounding trees. Sparks flew as branches splintered and leaves ignited, the battle painting the once-serene forest in chaos.
But he had made a mistake.
Focused on defense, Y/N missed his opportunity to strike. The aerial platform shot past him, vanishing into the thick canopy of vines and towering trees. He growled under his breath, scanning the treetops, knowing it would return.
And so, he waited.
The rhythmic hum of his lightsaber filled the air, its magenta glow casting an eerie light across his face. The distant sounds of the droid army rumbled through the jungle, mechanical stomps and garbled orders growing fainter in the distance. But another sound reached his ears—faint at first, then gradually growing louder.
The aerial platform was circling back.
A smirk tugged at the corner of Y/N's lips.
Y/N: "Come on, you stupid droid… take the bait."
As if responding to his challenge, the mechanical menace burst from the foliage, blasters blazing. Y/N deflected each shot with practiced ease, his feet planted firmly, unwavering in the face of fire. But he had no intention of staying on the defensive.
The moment the aerial platform closed in, Y/N pushed forward, his legs bending slightly before he leaped high into the air, his trajectory aimed directly at the droid.
B1-2785: "What the—?!"
The droid's photoreceptors barely had time to process the incoming threat before Y/N's boot connected with its head in a devastating kick. The force of the impact sent the droid's metallic skull snapping backward before disconnecting entirely from its body, flipping through the air before landing with a dull thud on the forest floor. The aerial platform, now without a pilot, careened wildly before slamming into a nearby tree and erupting in a fiery explosion.
Y/N landed smoothly, rolling his shoulders as he glanced down at the severed droid head. His smirk lingered for only a second before he refocused, remembering the mission at hand.
Pressing a button on his wrist, a small green light blinked to life, signaling the activation of his communicator.
Y/N: "Master Qui-Gon, I've landed on Naboo. Had a little scrap with some droid scouts, but I took care of them."
A brief static crackled before a familiar voice responded.
Qui-Gon (Over Comms): "Glad to hear you're still in one piece, Y/N. Federation troops are everywhere. I've already met up with Obi-Wan. We're in the swamplands near a large body of water. Sending our location now."
A series of beeps emitted from Y/N's wrist, his communicator displaying a small holomap. A green dot marked his position, while an orange dot blinked close by—closer than he had expected.
Y/N: "Coordinates received. Looks like you're not too far from my position."
Qui-Gon: "Good. Try to quicken your pace. Leave the sightseeing for after we stop the Federation."
Y/N chuckled softly, shaking his head. Even in the midst of war, Qui-Gon always had that calm, almost amused tone.
Y/N: "Yes, Master."
Following the map, Y/N navigated the dense jungle with ease. He moved swiftly, his senses alert, though he soon realized that, unknowingly, the droids had actually helped him by driving him in the right direction. Within minutes, he broke through the undergrowth to find Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan waiting for him near the water's edge.
Obi-Wan: "What took you so long?"
Obi-Wan's signature smirk was in full force, his arms crossed as he shot Y/N a teasing look.
Y/N rolled his eyes, the reaction earning a soft chuckle from his fellow Padawan.
It was then that Y/N noticed the strange figure standing beside Qui-Gon—a lanky humanoid with orange, mottled skin, long ears, and large, expressive eyes.
Jar Jar Binks: "Hellio, mesa culled Jar Jar Binks. Whosa yousa?"
Y/N gave the Gungan a brief nod, his tone polite but neutral.
Y/N: "I'm Y/N L/N, Jedi Padawan Learner."
Jar Jar waved excitedly, seemingly eager to converse, but before he could, Qui-Gon interjected, steering the conversation back to the mission.
Qui-Gon: "Jar Jar, you said you could take us to a city? Can you do that?"
The Gungan hesitated, shifting slightly.
Jar Jar: "Yesa... but... um..."
Qui-Gon: "Please, Jar Jar. The fate of your entire planet rests on whether we reach Theed in time to save the Queen."
Jar Jar hesitated once more, but this time, with renewed determination, he nodded. Moving to the edge of the water, he turned back to them.
Jar Jar: "Wesa havin' to goen underwater, okeyday?"
Without hesitation, the three Jedi reached into their utility belts, retrieving small rebreather capsules. As they placed the devices into their mouths, allowing them to breathe underwater, Y/N took a deep breath, steadying himself for what was to come.
Jar Jar: "And my warning yous, Gungans no liken outsiders, so don't expicin wern welcome."
Obi-Wan: "Don't worry, this has not been our day for warm welcomes."
Y/N: "It certainly has not."
Jar Jar, without further explanation, walked to the edge of the water. With a powerful push from his strong legs, he leaped high into the air, twisting mid-somersault before plunging gracefully into the murky depths below. As he vanished beneath the surface, he let out a series of excited words in his native tongue.
A few moments later, his head emerged from the water, droplets cascading down his long ears.
Jar Jar: "Ahh... yousa follow me now, okeyday?"
With nods of agreement and their breathing masks secured, the three Jedi cautiously waded into the water, the coldness seeping through their robes as they submerged themselves completely. The visibility was low at first, the water thick with sediment and aquatic plant life swaying with the currents. Schools of tiny fish darted past, disturbed by the newcomers.
As they swam deeper, the murkiness gradually gave way to an otherworldly glow in the distance. What started as a faint shimmer grew brighter with each stroke until the scene before them became clear—an entire city hidden in the depths of the lake. Towering bubble-like structures stretched for miles, interconnected by glowing pathways and bridges, a vast and secretive metropolis thriving beneath the waves.
The Jedi followed Jar Jar as he swam toward one of the larger bubbles. Nearing the strange membrane, they hesitated for a moment, watching as Jar Jar pushed through effortlessly, disappearing inside. The surface of the bubble rippled slightly before sealing itself once again, keeping the water at bay.
Exchanging brief glances, the Jedi followed suit, one by one pushing through the barrier. It gave way with surprising ease, allowing them entry before closing seamlessly behind them. Instantly, they found themselves standing inside the dry, well-lit city of Otoh Gunga.
Despite the mesmerizing beauty of the place, the reaction of the Gungan inhabitants was far from welcoming. Many paused their tasks to eye the newcomers warily, their large eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Some even whispered among themselves, stepping back as the Jedi walked further into the city.
Jar Jar, oblivious to the stares, beamed with joy at being home once more.
Jar Jar: "Sooo good beein home."
Before they could proceed further, two Gungan guards, both mounted on large, reptilian Kaadu, quickly blocked their path. One of them, an older and stern-looking Gungan wielding a long electro-pole, dismounted and stepped forward with authority.
Captain Tarpals: "Hey yousa, stopa there!"
Jar Jar's ears drooped slightly as he nervously greeted the captain.
Jar Jar: "Heyo-dalee, Cap'n Tarpals. Mesa back!"
Captain Tarpals exhaled sharply, shaking his head as though already exhausted by the sight of him.
Captain Tarpals: "Noah gain, Ja Ja. Yousa goen tada Bosses. Yousa in big dudu this time."
Jar Jar's face fell, his body slumping in defeat. Another guard approached and, with an amused smirk, prodded Jar Jar's side with a small jolt from an electro-pole. Jar Jar yelped in surprise, his long ears perking up before he turned to glare at the offending guard.
Jar Jar: "How wude."
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OTAH GUNGA - HIGH TOWER BOARD ROOM
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The boardroom of the Gungan leadership was an impressive structure, its walls a shimmering bubble membrane similar to the city's entrance. The centerpiece of the room was a raised, circular judge's bench with five grand seats, each occupied by a high-ranking Gungan official. Dominating the center was Boss Nass himself, a large, broad-shouldered Gungan whose deep voice carried the weight of authority.
Boss Nass: "Yousa cannot bees hair. Dis army of mackineeks up dare tis new weesong!"
Qui-Gon stepped forward, his presence calm yet resolute.
Qui-Gon: "That droid army is about to attack the Naboo. We must warn them."
Boss Nass's face contorted with disdain, his large jowls shaking as he scoffed.
Boss Nass: "Wesa no like da Naboo! Da Naboo tink day so smarty. Day tink day brains so big."
Y/N barely managed to suppress a chuckle, biting the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing outright. The way Boss Nass emphasized his words with exaggerated movements made it difficult to keep a straight face.
Obi-Wan, however, remained serious. He stepped forward beside Qui-Gon.
Obi-Wan: "Once those droids take control of the surface, they will take control of you."
Boss Nass remained unmoved, shaking his head.
Boss Nass: "Mesa no tink so. Dey not know of uss-en."
Y/N finally spoke, his voice steady and persuasive.
Y/N: "Boss Nass, surely big-brained individuals like yourselves realize that you and the Naboo form a symbiont circle. I've seen this before on other worlds—what happens to one will, in turn, affect the other."
Boss Nass narrowed his eyes but remained firm in his stance, shaking his head once more.
Boss Nass: "Wesa no care-n about da Naboo."
Qui-Gon, realizing that reasoning alone would not sway the Gungan leader, subtly raised his hand and made a slow, deliberate motion through the air.
Qui-Gon: "Then speed us on our way."
Boss Nass tilted his head slightly, his expression softening.
Boss Nass: "Wesa gonna speed yousaway."
Qui-Gon, his gaze steady, repeated the motion once more.
Qui-Gon: "We could use a transport."
Boss Nass considered this for a moment before nodding.
Boss Nass: "Wesa give yousa una bongo. Da speedest way tooda Naboo tis goen through da planet core. Now go."
Qui-Gon bowed slightly, followed by Y/N and Obi-Wan, mirroring the gesture.
Qui-Gon: "Thank you for your help. We leave in peace."
With their transport secured, the three Jedi turned and exited the chamber, escorted by Gungan guards. As they walked, Obi-Wan leaned closer to Qui-Gon, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
Obi-Wan: "Master, what's a bongo?"
Qui-Gon: "A transport, I hope."
Y/N, smirking, chimed in without hesitation.
Y/N: "I'm piloting. Last time we let Obi-Wan pilot, he got sick mid-flight."
Obi-Wan shot Y/N a sharp glare, clearly unimpressed.
Obi-Wan: "You were the one piloting when I got sick mid-flight, Y/N."
Y/N's smirk grew wider as he recalled the event in question.
Y/N: "No, I remember it quite clearly. Qui-Gon was injured when that tribal chieftain on Jakku blasted him in the shoulder during negotiations. Master Dooku and I were treating his wound while you were flying. I had to take over because your stomach couldn't handle a little turbulence."
Obi-Wan sighed, shaking his head as Y/N chuckled to himself. Qui-Gon simply smiled at their exchange as they continued on toward their newly acquired transport.
As they neared the exit to the room, Qui-Gon's gaze shifted toward a familiar figure bound in chains to the side. Jar Jar Binks, his large amphibian eyes filled with nervous energy, stood awkwardly as the weight of his punishment loomed over him. The Jedi Master felt a pang of sympathy for the clumsy Gungan—after all, it was Jar Jar who had led them to this hidden city despite knowing the risks and consequences of returning.
Jar Jar, his lanky form shifting uncomfortably, lifted his head to meet Qui-Gon's gaze. Hope flickered in his eyes as he tried to appeal to the Jedi's sense of justice.
Jar Jar: "Daza setten yousa up. Goen through da planet core is bad bombin! Ahhh... any hep hair would be hot."
A sheepish, almost childlike grin crossed his face, his large lips curling upwards as if trying to soften his predicament. Qui-Gon considered the Gungan's situation for a brief moment before making a decision. Without a word, he turned back toward the large rotund figure of Boss Nass. Obi-Wan, seeing his Master hesitate, furrowed his brows in mild confusion.
Obi-Wan: "Master, we're short of time."
Qui-Gon remained unfazed as he strode forward with deliberate steps, his steady gaze locked onto the Gungan leader. The way Boss Nass's jowls sagged, his expression showing impatience, made it clear he was not pleased by the Jedi's return.
Qui-Gon: "We'll need a navigator to get us through the planet's core. This Gungan may be of help."
Boss Nass's nostrils flared, and his lips curled into a toothy grin, revealing yellowed tusk-like teeth. His throat wobbled slightly as he released a deep chuckle, knowing full well what fate awaited Jar Jar should the Jedi not intervene.
Boss Nass: "Hisen to be pune-ished."
Jar Jar let out a pitiful whimper, his shoulders sagging in defeat as he visibly resigned himself to his punishment. Qui-Gon, however, remained composed. He had seen such power dynamics before and knew exactly how to tilt the situation in their favor. He lifted his hand subtly, his fingers barely twitching as he spoke in a calm, authoritative voice.
Qui-Gon: "I have saved his life. He owes me what you call a 'life debt.'"
The words hung in the air, but more importantly, the Force rippled through them, subtly influencing the minds of those present. Boss Nass blinked slowly, his jowls quivering as he considered the statement.
Qui-Gon: "Your gods demand that his life belongs to me now."
Boss Nass's expression shifted to one of surprise. His large, bulbous eyes flickered toward Jar Jar, who looked just as bewildered as anyone else in the room.
Boss Nass: "Binks. Yousa haveda liveplay with thisen hisen?"
Jar Jar, still struggling to comprehend the situation, hesitated before nodding vigorously.
Jar Jar: "Ah-huh."
The leader of the Gungans exhaled sharply, his lips smacking together as if coming to an internal resolution. His thick, webbed hand waved dismissively through the air before his body wobbled as he shook his head with great force. Saliva sprayed slightly as his jowls flapped wildly from the motion.
Boss Nass: "Begone wit him."
Freed from his bindings, Jar Jar stumbled slightly, rubbing his wrists where the rough chains had been. The momentary relief on his face was quickly replaced with growing panic as he suddenly realized the greater danger he had just thrown himself into. His voice cracked with hysteria as he exclaimed.
Jar Jar: "Count mesa outta dis one! Better dead here, den deader in da core... Yee guds, whata mesa sayin?!"
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BONGO COCKPIT - UNDERWATER
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The dim glow of control panels illuminated the cramped cockpit of the Bongo as it propelled through the deep and shadowy waters of Naboo's core. Y/N, gripping the flight controls with a steady hand, maneuvered the sleek craft through the murky depths with precision. The water outside was thick with sediment, creating an eerie veil that obscured visibility. Schools of small fish darted through the gloom, their scales reflecting what little light the vessel emitted.
Jar Jar, fidgeting nervously in the co-pilot seat, peered out of the viewport with wide, anxious eyes. His hands gripped the edge of the console tightly as his legs twitched in barely contained panic.
Jar Jar: "Dis is nutsen... Ooo, gooberfish!"
Obi-Wan, seated behind them with Qui-Gon, raised an eyebrow at the remark, momentarily distracted from the endless darkness of the ocean.
Obi-Wan: "Why were you banished, Jar Jar?"
The Gungan twisted in his seat slightly, the question clearly making him uncomfortable. His large ears drooped slightly as he answered.
Jar Jar: "Tis a longo taleo, buta small part of it wawdbe mesa....aaaa... clumsy."
Obi-Wan exchanged a glance with Qui-Gon, his expression a mixture of mild amusement and disbelief. Y/N, who had been focused on piloting, couldn't help but turn his head slightly at the statement, his eyebrow arching.
Obi-Wan: "You were banished because you were clumsy?"
Jar Jar: "Ahh... yousa mighten be sayin dat."
Y/N: "If you really are that clumsy, how are you still alive?"
Jar Jar: "Oh mesa got save by thi-"
Recognizing that this could turn into an unnecessarily long explanation, Y/N quickly cut him off with a deadpan expression.
Y/N: "Is this going to be a long tale?"
Jar Jar: "Longo, verin longo."
Y/N: "Then I'd rather not know."
Jar Jar scoffed in annoyance, his large arms crossing over his chest as he slumped back. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan chuckled quietly at the exchange before their attention was drawn to the shifting landscape outside. The Bongo's lights cut through the dark, illuminating strange rock formations and towering kelp forests swaying eerily in the unseen currents.
But something was watching them.
Without warning, a tremendous impact sent the Bongo lurching violently to one side. The entire vessel shook as a deafening crash echoed through the water. Y/N gritted his teeth, tightening his grip on the controls to steady their course. Qui-Gon instinctively leaned forward, his sharp eyes catching a terrifying sight just outside the viewport.
A monstrous, bioluminescent Opee Sea Killer had ensnared the Bongo with its grotesquely long, slimy tongue, reeling the craft toward its massive jaws lined with razor-sharp teeth. The creature's enormous eyes gleamed hungrily as it prepared to consume its prey.
Jar Jar: "Uh-oh. Big gooberfish. Huge Opee."
Before panic could set in, the water around them seemed to tremble. From the shadows, an even larger predator emerged—a Sando Aqua Monster. Its powerful jaws clamped down on the Opee, its enormous claws ripping into the struggling creature's thick flesh. The Opee released a blood-curdling screech as its grip on the Bongo loosened, allowing the vessel to slip free.
Qui-Gon, watching the monstrous battle unfold, exhaled calmly.
Qui-Gon: "There's always a bigger fish."
As the Jedi watched in fascination, the monstrous Sando Aqua made quick work of the Opee, tearing it apart with terrifying ease. The Bongo, now free from immediate danger, veered away deeper into the gloom, escaping before another predator decided to make a meal of them.
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NABOO ORBIT - TRADE FEDERATION BATTLESHIP: BRIDGE
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Gunray and Rune Haako, stood stiffly before the towering holographic projection of Darth Sidious. The flickering blue light of the Sith Lord's image cast eerie shadows on their reptilian faces, accentuating the unease that already settled in their posture.
Despite the technological marvel surrounding them, the bridge felt cold and oppressive, the air thick with the weight of secrecy and fear. The dark-robed figure of Sidious, his face obscured by the depths of his hood, loomed over them like a phantom, his mere presence sending a shiver through the Neimoidians' spines. Though his features remained mostly hidden, the unmistakable tone of confidence in his voice resonated through the room.
Nute Gunray stiffened before speaking, choosing his words carefully.
Gunray: "The invasion is on schedule, My Lord."
Sidious remained motionless for a moment, as if savoring the words. He already knew this, of course, but hearing it spoken aloud only reinforced the power he held over these trembling pawns. His mouth curled into the faintest hint of a smirk as he nodded in satisfaction.
Sidious: "I have the Senate bogged down in procedures. They will have no choice but to accept your control of the system."
Gunray, ever the cautious schemer, exchanged a glance with Haako before continuing. His voice held an edge of uncertainty, betraying his inner doubts about how smoothly this conquest would proceed.
Gunray: "The Queen has great faith the Senate will side with her."
Sidious' smirk widened slightly, his voice laced with quiet amusement. He had expected this—after all, Amidala was young, idealistic, and hopelessly reliant on the very institution he had already undermined. To him, she was merely an inconvenience, a minor obstacle that would soon be swept away in the rising tide of his grand design.
Sidious: "Queen Amidala is young and naive. You will find controlling her will not be difficult."
Gunray gave a slight bow of his head, eager to accept this reassurance.
Gunray: "Yes, My Lord."
Without another word, the hologram of Darth Sidious flickered and vanished, leaving only the steady hum of the bridge's control systems. The oppressive weight of his presence lingered even after he was gone, the very air feeling heavier in his absence.
Gunray exhaled slowly, his posture relaxing slightly, though his mind was still troubled. Haako, standing beside him, looked to his superior with a wary expression, his elongated fingers clasped behind his back.
Haako: "You didn't tell him about the missing Jedi?"
Gunray's snake-like eyes shifted toward his lieutenant, his lips pressing together in thought. A nervous glimmer flickered across his features, but he quickly concealed it. There was no point in reporting a problem they had not yet solved. No need to risk incurring their master's wrath over an uncertainty.
Gunray: "No need to report that to him, until we have something to report."
The words, though confident, carried an underlying tension. He knew as well as Haako did that Sidious did not tolerate failure. The Jedi were still out there, somewhere, and until they were dealt with, the shadow of their master's displeasure loomed over them like an executioner's blade.
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NABOO - BONGO COCKPIT: UNDERWATER
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The murky depths of Naboo's vast underwater expanse stretched endlessly around the small Bongo submarine as it weaved through the dark abyss. Strange bioluminescent creatures flickered with an eerie glow in the distance, their soft pulsing lights the only illumination in the deep oceanic void. The hum of the Bongo's engine echoed within the metal hull, accompanied by the rhythmic bubbling of the water pressing in around them.
Jar Jar, fidgeting in his seat beside Y/N, nervously glanced around at the endless gloom, his large amphibious eyes wide with apprehension.
Jar Jar: "Where wesa goin?"
Qui-Gon, seated calmly in the rear of the vessel, observed the dark passage ahead with an almost meditative patience. His voice was steady, reassuring.
Qui-Gon: "Don't worry, the Force will guide us..."
Jar Jar: "Ooooh, maxibig... 'da force'... Well, dat smells stinkowiff."
No sooner had the words left his mouth than the sudden blaring of alarms filled the cramped cockpit. Red lights flashed across the control panel, casting sharp, erratic shadows around the cabin. Jar Jar nearly jumped out of his seat, flailing his arms.
Y/N's hands flew over the controls, analyzing the warning signals flashing in rapid succession.
Y/N: "We're losing power."
Jar Jar: "Oh, no..."
Thinking quickly, Y/N gritted his teeth and yanked the controls, steering the Bongo toward the nearest cave system. The jagged rock formations loomed ahead, their barnacle-encrusted surfaces barely visible through the dim blue-green water. The sub lurched as Y/N guided it into a narrow opening just large enough to fit the vessel. The Bongo slipped inside just as the last of its power drained, the thrusters sputtering and dying out completely.
A suffocating silence filled the cockpit. The only sound was the distant gurgling of water seeping through the rocky tunnels. The Bongo now sat in utter darkness, trapped within the cavernous depths.
Jar Jar groaned, rubbing his webbed hands over his face in frustration.
Jar Jar: "Oh, wesa diein here."
Qui-Gon, ever composed, turned his gaze to the nervous Gungan.
Qui-Gon: "Just relax. We're not in trouble yet."
Jar Jar snapped his head toward him, his expression one of exasperation.
Jar Jar: "What yet? Monstairs out dare! Leak'n in here, all'n sink'n, and nooooo power! You nutsen! WHEN YOUSA TINKEN WESA IN TROUBLE?!!!?"
Ignoring the rising panic, Y/N swiftly unfastened a panel beneath the main controls, revealing a tangled mess of wires and circuits. Sweat trickled down his brow as he carefully separated the strands, his fingers moving deftly to locate the power relay. He yanked out a red and yellow wire, twisting them together before reaching for a green and blue wire, pressing them tightly against each other.
Sparks crackled in the dim cockpit, lighting up Jar Jar's horrified expression. The power flickered uncertainly, and for a moment, nothing happened. Then, with a final jolt, the lights surged back on, illuminating the cockpit and the eerie cavern beyond.
Directly in front of them, a massive Colo Claw Fish loomed, its enormous eyes narrowing as it registered the presence of the Bongo. Its sharp, needle-like teeth glistened in the glow of the sub's headlights, rows upon rows ready to snap shut on its next meal.
Jar Jar's eyes bulged as he let out a high-pitched shriek.
Jar Jar: "Ahhh monsters back!!!"
The beast let out a guttural, bubbling growl, recoiling momentarily at the sudden intrusion of light before surging forward, its elongated body undulating with predatory grace.
Y/N reacted instantly, gripping the controls and throwing the Bongo into a rapid reverse maneuver. The sub shot backward into the cavern, narrowly dodging the creature's first snapping bite. Jar Jar flailed wildly in his seat, his panicked babbling filling the cockpit in a frenzy.
Y/N clenched his jaw and shot him a sharp glare.
Y/N: "Will you please be quiet."
Reaching out with one hand, Y/N placed it firmly on Jar Jar's shoulder, using a subtle yet effective Force technique to calm him. Jar Jar's frantic movements suddenly ceased, his head lolling to one side as he slipped into an unconscious state, finally silenced.
Obi-Wan, having observed the entire exchange, smirked in amusement.
Obi-Wan: "You overdid it."
Y/N rolled his eyes but kept his focus on their escape.
Meanwhile, the Colo Claw Fish, not willing to let its prey escape, slithered through the cavern with frightening speed, its jagged teeth gleaming in the dim light. Y/N navigated through the twisting tunnels, the sub weaving between sharp stalactites and stalagmites with near-impossible precision.
Then, without warning, the Bongo shot out of the cave's exit and into the open ocean once more. The sudden burst of light from the outside waters blinded the Colo Claw Fish for a moment, but it continued its pursuit, undeterred.
However, as luck would have it, a new predator had entered the fray. The Sando Aqua Monster, an enormous, hulking behemoth of the deep, emerged from the shadows behind them. Its gaping maw, filled with crushing teeth, closed around the Colo Claw Fish with terrifying finality.
The water rippled violently as the sea giant clamped down on its prey, muffled screeches and splintering bone resonating through the depths. The Sando Aqua used its powerful forelimbs to grip the smaller creature, shredding it with monstrous ease before swallowing the remains whole.
Inside the Bongo, Y/N exhaled heavily, watching as the monster disappeared back into the abyss, satisfied with its meal.
A few moments later, Jar Jar stirred groggily, blinking as he regained consciousness. His wide, confused eyes scanned the cockpit before landing on Y/N, who was still focused on steering them towards their final destination.
Y/N smirked slightly.
Y/N: "Welcome back, Jar Jar."
Qui-Gon, nodding toward a distant rocky formation breaking through the murky waters, gave his next order calmly.
Qui-Gon: "Head for that outcropping."
Jar Jar groaned as he slumped back in his seat, still reeling from his forced nap.
Jar Jar: "Oie Boie!"
The Bongo surged forward, its engines humming steadily once more, propelling them toward the distant city of Theed as they got closer and closer to their destination.
------
NABOO - MAIN ROAD INTO THEED
------
The rhythmic thudding of mechanical footsteps echoed ominously through the lush Naboo countryside as the long columns of the Trade Federation droid army advanced down the main road leading to Theed. The sleek, tan-armored B1 battle droids marched in perfect formation, their blasters held tightly against their chests, while a contingent of heavier armored droids and armored vehicles trailed behind them. Overhead, vulture droids patrolled the skies, their sharp, insect-like forms cutting through the air as they ensured complete aerial dominance over the region.
The invasion was in full swing. The emerald hills and pristine rivers of Naboo, once untouched and peaceful, now bore the stain of war as the relentless mechanical force pushed toward the heart of the capital. The sound of repulsorlifts hummed in the background as AAT battle tanks rumbled forward, their long-barreled cannons swiveling to scan the landscape for any resistance.
Meanwhile, within the grand halls of Theed's Royal Palace, Queen Amidala stood at a tall arched window, her piercing brown eyes filled with sorrow and frustration as she watched the inevitable approach of the droid army. The elegant white and gold architecture of her city, its flowing waterfalls and manicured gardens, stood in stark contrast to the cold, lifeless machines that now occupied its streets. Her heart ached, knowing that her people's fate hung precariously in the balance, and she remained powerless to stop the invasion without outside help.
A deep, resonant hum filled the air as a dark Trade Federation transport descended into Theed Plaza, its engines stirring up dust and debris as it made its landing. The ramp hissed open, and from within the dark confines of the ship, Nute Gunray and Rune Haako emerged. Clad in flowing robes, their green-skinned, amphibious faces held an expression of smug triumph as they surveyed their latest conquest.
A B1 droid commander, marked with yellow accents of rank, clanked forward to meet them. Its robotic voice crackled through its voice module as it delivered its report.
"Viceroy, we have captured the Queen."
Gunray's thin lips curled into a smirk, his red eyes gleaming with satisfaction. The weight of uncertainty that had lingered since the Jedi's unexpected arrival had now been lifted. The Queen, and by extension, her entire planet, was now under his control.
"Ah, victory!" he declared, his voice filled with self-assured delight, believing that everything had now fallen into place.
------
NABOO - OUTSIDE CITY OF THEED
------
The quiet lapping of water against metal filled the air as the battered Bongo finally emerged from the murky depths of Naboo's underwater passageways. The hatches hissed open, allowing a fresh wave of crisp, topside air to rush in, filling the lungs of its passengers.
After the perilous journey through the depths, escaping monstrous creatures and navigating the treacherous planet core, the trio of Jedi and their Gungan companion were finally met with the sight of the surface world once more. Sunlight bathed the rolling hills in gold, and the distant city of Theed shimmered beneath the morning sky. The waterfalls that cascaded down its magnificent architecture gleamed like liquid diamonds, creating a striking contrast against the ominous invasion force that now occupied its streets.
Jar Jar, stepping cautiously out of the vessel, took in the landscape around him. His large ears flopped slightly as he turned his head in every direction, marveling at the world above the water that he so rarely had the chance to see in such beauty and detail.
"Oo. Dis seem uverly," he breathed in awe, his wide, orange eyes darting from one marvel to another.
Standing beside him, Y/N crossed his arms, taking in the same view but with a more grounded perspective. The contrast between the city's serene beauty and the unnatural presence of battle droids marching through its streets was disturbing.
"Jar Jar, that will probably be the only thing we ever agree on again," Y/N quipped, his voice tinged with amusement.
Though Jar Jar was too enraptured by the scenery to acknowledge him, both Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan exchanged smirks at the young Padawan's remark. A fleeting moment of levity in the face of the darkness that loomed ahead.
Qui-Gon took in a deep breath, his face unreadable as he surveyed the terrain before them. He knew that whatever awaited them inside the city would not be easy. The real challenge was about to begin, and time was of the essence. Their task was clear: locate the Queen and free her from the grip of the Federation before it was too late.
The group stepped forward, leaving the safety of the Bongo behind, ready to embark on the next step of their mission. Theed, and its fate, awaited them.
To Be Continued...