Dock 38-Aurek-7, sector B-55, was not crowded. Only a quartet of service droids circled around a small cargo ship with a flat saucer-like silhouette and a pair of "wings" of additional cargo compartments at the stern. The scarlet and white hull, at first glance, was in perfect condition, except for a couple of dents and a wide scratch on the left side. All panels and hatches were in place, and the gun turret menacingly stared into the far corner, directly at the "office" of the supervisor of the nearest four docks.
The task for the mechanical repairmen was quite simple – to prepare the ship for flight and fix numerous minor malfunctions. And the droids were doing an excellent job with it.
Two people slowly descended the inclined ramp of the right cargo compartment. The chief mechanic of the docks, a Duros, and a young man in strange clothing resembling Jedi robes.
"So, sir... whatever your name is," the Duros said grimly, "refueling the fuel cells and basic maintenance will cost you 1000 credits. But regarding the installation of an additional turret and a couple of torpedo launchers... I must refuse. The Judicial Forces strictly monitor the installation of weapons on civilian vessels."
Revan shrugged in response. He didn't really expect help from the "law-abiding" dock workers anyway. Apparently, he would have to turn to the Hutt cartel's connections again. The former Sith planned to get the most out of their forced cooperation with Jabba.
"Of course, respected Tarhis, I understand perfectly," the ancient replied, maintaining an unperturbed expression.
Although he had already persuaded the port worker to give a discount on maintenance and not ask unnecessary questions about the owner's identity, of course, for a certain bonus, it was not worth pressing the sentient being, in whose emotions fear clearly flickered.
"I'm glad we understand each other," the alien nodded and suddenly perked up, remembering something. "However, in any case, I will need to indicate the ship's name in the documents confirming the completion of repair work."
"Of course," the former Jedi smiled slightly.
Revan turned to the ship and ran his gaze over the hull elements, whose color reminded him of the Dantooine sky at dawn.
"And? What name should I indicate?" the Duros asked impatiently.
The ancient grinned, recalling how he and HK had argued all evening about the ship's name. The droid suggested warlike names like "Bloody Blade" or "Ripper." Revan, on the other hand, was looking for something calmer and more inconspicuous. In the end, the two agreed that it would be good to pay tribute to the Ebony Hawk by including some bird in the name. Moreover, with its "wing" compartments, the newly acquired truck resembled these feathered creatures.
"Dawn Eagle," Revan said, turning to the chief mechanic. "The name has already been entered into the civil vessel registry."
He nodded and entered the information into his datapad.
"The work will be completed in three hours."
"Thank you," the former Sith nodded.
After saying goodbye to the ship's owner, the dock worker went to his post.
Revan stood with his arms crossed and watched the repair droid monotonously carrying out its duties of checking the ship's main components. However, the Jedi's thoughts were far away. A strange feeling of anxiety and danger did not leave him. But the threat was directed not at him, but at someone familiar.
The situation was exacerbated by the fact that attempts to contact Maul had been unsuccessful. The self-proclaimed Sith did not respond to calls, which caused irritation. Of course, Revan understood perfectly well that the Zabrak would have immediately informed his master about the encounter with an unknown strong Force-sensitive. However, the fact that the Sith decided to hide instead of finding out the identity and intentions of the potential threat was alarming.
The ancient tried to concentrate on the feeling of threat and track its source, but nothing worked. The Force refused to send any clear images. The former Jedi suspected that this was due to the fact that he did not know well enough the one who was in danger. But one thing was clear: it was someone Force-sensitive. He felt this way when those Jedi who ignored the Council's will and went to war with him went into battle. It was like a weak connection between teacher and student.
Suddenly, a thought flashed in his mind, and Revan took out his commlink.
"HK, connect to the HoloNet and find out where Shmi Skywalker has settled."
"With readiness: Yes, Master," the droid's synthesized voice replied.
The image of Anakin appeared in his thoughts quite unexpectedly. Revan, of course, had considered the possibility of training the boy, but he didn't think he had already begun to form Force bonds. However, it was natural for him. His first teacher had noted that the then young Jedi possessed an amazing ability to attract sentient beings to his side and lead them. As if the Force itself helped him earn the trust of those around him and allowed them to accept Revan's ideals.
"Boastfully: Master, I have already finished," HK announced. "Shmi Skywalker is registered in sector 230, adjacent to the Temple. The exact address is Enlightenment Street, house 4, apartment 43-B."
"Excellent. Thank you, HK."
"With pride: I am always happy to help Master."
The former Sith decided that it would be rash to look for the boy in the Temple. He had already revealed himself to the Grand Master just a day ago. It would be more appropriate to try to contact Anakin through his mother.
But first...
"HK, I have a task for you," he activated the commlink again.
"Interestedly: Yes, Master?"
"Oversee the preparation of the Eagle for departure. Pay special attention to the armament and the shield generator. I have a bad feeling. We may have to leave the planet quickly."
"According to: Of course, Master. I will oversee everything."
"And contact our associate in the Cartel. We need decent equipment, and quickly."
"Happily: Yes, Master."
"No fanaticism!" the former Jedi reprimanded the droid. "We don't need portable proton torpedo launchers... yet. Stick to standard infantry equipment."
"Disappointed: Yes, Master."
Shaking his head, Revan turned towards the hangar exit and went in search of a speeder.
As it turned out, Shmi Skywalker had followed "Vanner's" advice and rented an apartment quite close to the Jedi Temple. This area had always been quiet, as the criminal element of Coruscant preferred to avoid encounters with members of the Order.
Quickly finding the right door on the sixth floor of a building that was not tall by galactic capital standards, Revan touched the call button on the wall near the doorway.
"Yes? Who is it?" the woman's voice was surprised.
"Shmi? It's Vanner."
"Vanner?!" Skywalker asked, both joyfully and confusedly. "Come in, of course!"
The next moment, the door slid open, and a disheveled Shmi appeared in the doorway. She clearly wasn't expecting guests. However, the expression of joy on her face was sincere. Revan, out of habit ingrained over the years, checked it.
The ancient followed the hostess's inviting gesture and entered. The room was spacious, consisting of two adjoining rooms, a bathroom, and a small kitchen. Recalling the real estate prices in this area, Revan thought that this was the best the woman could find with the money he had left for the Skywalker family.
"Come in, Vanner. Sit down," Shmi led him into the living room, at least, that's how the ancient would describe this room.
A sofa, a couple of armchairs, a low table, and a holovisor tuned to the news channel – that was basically all that was in this small room. Probably, due to such a small amount of furniture, it created a sense of spaciousness.
"Can I get you anything?" the hostess offered. "I, of course, haven't quite settled in yet, but I think I can offer you a cup of caf."
"Thank you, Shmi, but no need. I won't be long," Revan refused with a smile.
Skywalker hesitated, but a few moments later, she sat down in an armchair opposite him.
"I don't even know how to thank you for what you've done for us," she said with tears in her eyes.
Apparently, the change of scenery had made this undoubtedly strong and reserved woman loosen her emotional control a little and relax. Years of slavery could not have passed without a trace. And now, finally freed from the slave chip, which, like an invisible blade at her throat, kept her nerves constantly tense, the woman would feel out of sorts for the first time, and her emotions would go through real "swings."
It had already begun. Revan couldn't help but notice the constant tremor in the apartment owner's hands.
"No thanks are needed, Shmi. I just helped a friend," the former Jedi smiled, sending a wave of calm through the Force and watching with pleasure as his interlocutor gradually relaxed.
"And yet, our family is now in your debt," Skywalker insisted.
"If it's that important, I'll accept your friendship as payment."
"But..." the woman tried to say something.
Revan didn't let her object, asking the question that interested him.
"By the way, how is Anakin? Did he get into the Temple?"
Shmi was a little flustered by the abrupt change of topic, but quickly regained her composure.
"Yes, everything is wonderful," despite these words, the ancient clearly saw that the woman was upset. "Qui-Gon took him immediately after we arrived. Knight Jinn left me his commlink identifier, but he has only contacted me once in these few days. He said that Anakin is fine and the Council will soon make a decision about his training."
"And that's all?" Revan clarified, suddenly feeling a sharp indignation in the Force and a growing sense of anxiety.
"Yes," Shmi paused for a moment. "Qui-Gon said that Anakin must be with him all the time, so they will continue to accompany the Queen of Naboo together for now."
"Very strange," the former Sith thought.
The fact that Jinn intended to drag the boy, who had not even been accepted for training yet, everywhere with him, as if he were his Padawan, was strange. In essence, he could have left the child with his mother until the Council approved his training. And even then, the boy would face the initial training of a youngling, but certainly not Padawan training.
The ancient's thoughts were interrupted by the voice of the news channel announcer.
"... At today's session of the Galactic Senate, the candidacy of the new Chancellor of the Republic was adopted by an absolute majority of votes. It was the former senator from the Chommell sector, a native of Naboo, Sheev Palpatine."
Revan turned his head to the holovisor and saw the image of a gray-haired man with an open smile on his benevolent face. However, there was something false in his appearance, but the Jedi couldn't quite figure out what it was.
The feeling of anxiety grew, and the invisible pressure of the Force became more distinct.
"... The Queen of Naboo, who arrived a few days ago, was the first to congratulate the now former senator on his appointment and expressed hope that her petition for assistance to their homeworld, which, according to her assurances, is under illegal blockade by the Trade Federation, will be considered as soon as possible. The Chancellor did not comment on the Queen's request and assured our journalists that the fact that he is a native of Naboo will not affect the objectivity of his judgment. A senatorial commission will be formed to consider the Queen's demand, and its representatives will fly to Naboo in the near future.
Meanwhile, as we have learned from authoritative sources, the Queen Amidala was upset by the long delays in considering her request for support and chose to await the decision with her people on her homeworld."
A sudden vision washed over the former Jedi.
Before his eyes appeared a planet covered with green plains and beautiful lakes, surrounded by a fleet of massive ships. Even rows of marching droid armies, like a steel wave, advancing on the meager formation of long-eared aborigines. A swarm of vulture droids, tearing apart a pathetic dozen aircraft painted in the bright colors of the Naboo Royal Guard.
And then, he saw what made him clench his fists until they cracked.
A scarlet lightsaber blade entering Qui-Gon's chest. A sneer on Maul's face and the mournful cry of some guy. Apparently, it was Jinn's Padawan.
And immediately, an image of a Naboo fighter jet flying into the depths of a space station appeared. A chilling realization of the pilot's identity dawned. It was Anakin!
The vision ended as abruptly as it had come.
Revan rubbed his temples and looked up at Shmi's frightened face.
"Did something happen?" she asked worriedly.
"No, everything is fine. Just a migraine," the ancient waved it off.
There was no point in frightening the mother with visions in which her son faced mortal danger, and his mentor death.
The former Sith asked for a glass of water, and while the apartment owner went to the kitchen, he tried to recall the details of his vision. The planet was clearly Naboo, there was almost no doubt about it. There were very few such beautiful worlds with abundant water and greenery in the galaxy.
Jinn was clearly there. Apparently, he was accompanying the queen, who suddenly decided that returning to a planet controlled by the enemy was a good idea.
The Jedi glanced at the holovisor screen, where the story about the election of the new Chancellor was still playing, and his gaze was drawn to the line "repeat broadcast."
"Hutt!" the ancient exhaled, comparing the current date with the one indicated in the news.
It turned out that the queen had left Coruscant almost a standard planetary day ago! And apparently, she was already approaching Naboo.
That was where this growing sense of anxiety came from! Time was running out!
Qui-Gon and young Anakin were in mortal danger. Revan was accustomed to trusting his visions.
The former Sith was absolutely not interested in the death of these sentient beings. Moreover, the Force made it clear that the boy was important. So important that the feeling of anxiety could not be calmed even by proven mental techniques. The Great Force clearly hinted – save him!
But what could one person, even a Force-sensitive, do in such a short time?
"A lot," Revan nodded to his thoughts, standing up from the armchair.
"Are you leaving already?" Shmi asked in surprise, appearing from the kitchen with a glass of water in her hands.
"Yes, I'm sorry. Urgent matters have arisen," the former Sith replied with a smile. "All the best, Shmi."
Without waiting for the hostess's reply, the ancient walked to the exit.
"Is everything really okay with Anakin?" the woman suddenly shouted after Revan, who had already crossed the threshold.
The Jedi froze and, turning his head slightly, replied.
"Everything will be fine. I promise."
As soon as the apartment door closed behind him, the man broke into a run.
"HK!" he roared, pulling out his commlink. "Prepare the Eagle for departure! Immediately!"
"With readiness: Yes, Master. Irritatedly: However, we could use an astromech. The navigation computer of this freighter is not fast in processing information. Even that idler T3 was more effective," the assassin droid replied in a grumpy tone.
"No time! Start calculating coordinates now. We're flying to Naboo!" the ancient growled.
"Confidently: The ship will be ready for departure by the time you arrive, Master."
Disconnecting the commlink, Revan pushed aside some cleaning droid in his path and rushed to the speeder parking lot.
When the ancient ran into the hangar, the Dawn Eagle was already warming up its engines.
Running up the cargo compartment ramp and hitting the door closing panel on the fly, Revan immediately felt the ship lift off from the durasteel surface. Without wasting time, he rushed straight to the control cabin.
HK-47 was in the pilot's seat and was already maneuvering the Eagle out of the hangar.
"Is the departure clearance obtained?" the former Sith asked, taking the co-pilot's seat.
"With pride: Of course, Master. Irritatedly: At least one meatbag wasn't in a hurry to perform his duties."
"What are you talking about?" Revan didn't understand, noticing with the corner of his eye that the weapon control system was active. "What did you do?"
"Insulted: Nothing, Master. I merely pointed out the dispatcher's incompetence and unsuitability for his position."
"And that's all?" the Jedi asked incredulously.
"Thoughtfully: Perhaps I also enlightened him on the poor armor of the dispatcher's booth, as well as the absence of shields... and the power of the Eagle's laser cannon... and its range... and my accuracy... Master."
Revan ran his hand over his face with a groan.
"Great, now we have to deal with the Judicial Forces too," he concluded.
"Mockingly: I doubt it, Master. That meatbag will definitely not say anything to anyone," the droid chuckled, circling a stream of aerocars.
"You... - the former Sith started to exclaim.
"Insulted: Of course not, Master. There was no order for liquidation. Maliciously: However, few people dare to mess with the Cartel."
"What? The Cartel?" Revan asked. "And how did he find out about our connection with the Hutts?"
"Explanation: At the time of your order to prepare for departure, I was just receiving the ordered cargo from our partners, Master," HK flew around another highway and directed the ship away from Coruscant's atmosphere. "Additional explanation: The meatbags from the Cartel offered their help in negotiating with the dispatcher. I wisely agreed, Master."
Revan shook his head, but didn't delve into further details. It was good that HK hadn't gone to talk to the spaceport employee himself. In that case, he wouldn't guarantee that anything salvageable would remain of the dispatcher's booth.
"Course for Naboo, HK. I'll check the equipment," the ancient ordered, standing up from his seat.
"Confirmation: Received, Master. The equipment is in the left cargo compartment."
"Alright. How long until Naboo?"
"Estimate: With our engine, about 12 hours, Master," the droid concluded.
The Jedi nodded and left the cabin.
On the way to the crates with what HK considered necessary to order from the Cartel, Revan pondered the options for conducting the operation. The vision was unclear, which complicated planning. It was unknown where to look for Qui-Gon and Anakin, what they intended to do, and when it would all happen.
The most sensible thing would be to contact the Jedi. Moreover, the standard frequency for communicating with members of the Order was known. The former Sith had copied it in the Temple. So, contacting Jinn would be easy... if he answered. And only a complete fool would do that. On a planet controlled by the enemy, and with enemy ships in orbit... a signal could be traced very quickly.
However, one could trust the Force.
In any case, he would have to act openly, as Revan... Which could cause difficulties. If Jinn was ready to accept the fact of the resurrection of an ancient fallen Jedi, then his companions might not react so favorably.
The ancient pondered.
He did have another alias – Knight Avner Van. Let Qui-Gon know Vaner Shan's face, he could negotiate with him. This adept of the Light side seemed quite adequate to the ancient and not suffering from excessive narrow-mindedness.
There was also the Queen's maid... Padmé. She had also seen Vaner's face, and the disguise used to infiltrate the Temple might not be enough to deceive her.
"It doesn't matter. There are plenty of means to hide my appearance," Revan nodded to his thoughts.
Meanwhile, in the cargo compartment, he found several bulky containers.
"Well, it's time to see what the caring HK has acquired," the former Jedi sighed heavily.
The first container contained several plasma carbines and four DC-series hand blasters. The rest of the volume was filled with army-dehydrated rations and more expensive self-heating rations, apparently for expeditionary corps commanders.
Revan was surprised, as the Republic had no regular army. Where did such "luxury" come from? Probably from the self-defense forces of some planet with a reasonable ruler who understood the need for well-equipped armed forces.
"Your electronic soul, HK!" the ancient cursed, opening the second box. "And in what world is a heavy ACP repeater considered standard armament?!"
Next to the six-barreled rotary monster, capable of vaporizing medium tank armor in a couple of seconds of concentrated fire, were about 50 power cells and compressed gas cylinders. The total ammunition supply was around 4000 rounds.
"This is outrageous!" Revan exclaimed, looking deeper into the container.
Four anti-tank launchers and two crates of thermal detonators could cause a small local apocalypse. However, the cost of this bounty was half the price at which he managed to snatch the Eagle from its previous owner.
The ancient was already reaching for the commlink to scold his creation for excessive zeal and budget overspending, but he stopped. A vision flashed in his memory of thousands of droids attacking the flimsy Gungan forces.
It might turn out that HK had significantly increased the chances of success for the entire operation.
"Well, sometimes your madness benefits everyone," Revan mused.
Leaving the crates of equipment alone, the Jedi went to his cabin, where he had moved his few personal belongings at the port. But most importantly, his armor was there. A full set of Mandalorian armor and a black-as-pitch cloak were neatly laid out on the bed.
Examining his usual "suit," Revan concluded that it would be unwise to irritate the Jedi by appearing in armor as a gifted individual who suspiciously resembled the image of a Sith described in the Temple's records. Therefore, he decided that on Naboo, he would limit himself to a breastplate, which he would wear under the simple robes of the Order members.
His palms habitually rested on the hilts of the separated blades, his fingers traced the carvings on the pommels. The former Sith had no doubt that a battle lay ahead. The only question was the scale of the upcoming engagement.
"HK," Revan addressed the droid through the ship's intercom.
"Readily: Yes, Master?"
"Did you happen to download information on the Trade Federation's armament during your HoloNet searches?"
"Proudly: Of course, Master. I strive to keep my tactical databases up-to-date and have information on all weapon systems used, as well as combat vehicles from major manufacturers. I will now transmit the information to the terminal in your cabin," the droid reported.
A moment later, the terminal beeped, confirming receipt of the data packet.
The former Sith took a seat at the table and activated the holoprojector. Above a small disc-shaped emitter, an image appeared of a flimsy-looking droid with an elongated head.
"Explanation: The Trade Federation uses the services of the 'Baktoid Armor Workshop' corporation. The backbone of their ground forces consists of light B-1 series droids," HK-47 began his story. "Skeptically: A rather primitive design, in my opinion. Minimal armor and weak joint mobility. And the targeting system is worse than a five-year-old's meat sack. Indignantly: It's essentially a prototype that's been given a weapon! And they've also deprived it of the ability to conduct tactical analysis of the situation. Irritated explanation: The main control is carried out remotely from a control station or a planetary bunker. Moreover, if the control signal is lost, the droid goes into sleep mode!"
"What nonsense!" Revan concluded.
"Emotionally: Exactly, Master!"
"But why were these droids put into production and even adopted for service?"
"Regretfully: The cost, Master. The reason is their relative cheapness compared to alternatives."
"And even more so compared to assassin droids?" the former Jedi surmised.
"Agreed: Precisely, Master."
"What else can the Federation surprise us with?"
"Explanation: The second type of droid is much more dangerous in direct confrontation, Master. These are the so-called destroyer droids, or droidekas, manufactured by the Colicoids."
Revan winced at the mention of the natives of Colla IV.
"Have these overgrown cockroaches died out yet?" he asked with disgust, recalling several episodes from his past.
"Regretfully: No, Master, they have not died out yet."
"And what did they create?"
The holo-image changed to a three-legged, hunched droid of peculiar design, resembling the ugly bodies of Colicoids. Two rapid-fire blasters instead of front limbs inspired apprehension.
"Explanation: The droideka is a three-legged droid capable of rapid movement in a folded state, but extremely slow and clumsy in combat mode. Analysis: The frontal sector of 57 degrees is well covered. To attack at a larger or smaller angle, the droid must shift its entire body. Its limited mobility is partially compensated by a personal shield that protects against physical and energy attacks."
"Vulnerable points?" Revan clarified.
"Answer: The energy dome does not cover the droid from below, so as not to waste energy on contact with the floor surface. Also, the shield does not distinguish between a blaster bolt and a solid obstacle. When overturned, the shield continues to operate and burns out its resource in a few seconds."
"Excellent. We can work with this," the Jedi nodded to his thoughts. "Anything else?"
"Continuation of the story: Infantry troops, consisting of B-1s, are often accompanied by AAT armored assault tanks."
The image changed again, showing a combat vehicle with a wide, flat base, clearly designed for repulsor movement. The crew compartment was narrower and taller, topped with a long-barreled laser cannon. Lighter weapons were mounted on the sides of the turret, fixed forward. Several openings were visible at the base, which the former Jedi identified as missile launch shafts.
HK's brief account confirmed Revan's conclusions, describing the armament systems the tank possessed.
"Vulnerabilities?"
"Explanation: Insufficient protection of the rear, weak armor on the sides, and the inability to reload missile armament in field conditions."
"Hmm, theoretically, it can be destroyed with a single precise shot to the side or rear?"
"Addendum: A grenade under the repulsor will also work, Master."
"Good, anything else?"
"Space forces are mainly represented by Lucrehulk-class capital ships, as well as C-9979 landing craft. Vulture droids are used as light aircraft."
Images and tactical-technical characteristics appeared on the holodisplay in turn.
"Excellent, thank you, HK."
"Devotedly: Always glad to help, Master."
Exhaling wearily, the ancient sank to the floor and sat in a meditation pose. He had a lot to think about before reaching Naboo.
The message from HK that the ship was preparing to exit hyperspace caught Revan just as he finished analyzing his vision. He had studied every detail, every insignificant trifle that he managed to discern in those blurry images sent by the Great Force.
There were no guarantees of success, but the former Jedi hoped that the knowledge gained would help him save the lives of Qui-Gon and Anakin.
Donning his breastplate and throwing on a gray robe over it, Revan left his cabin and joined HK in the cockpit.
"How long until exit?" the Jedi asked.
"Answer: One minute, Master."
"Judging by the news, Naboo is under planetary blockade by the Trade Federation forces. Therefore, after exiting into normal space, we'll pretend we ended up in the sector by accident. Meanwhile, we'll smoothly move towards the planet. If we're lucky, we'll manage to enter the atmosphere from one of the poles. And then, they won't catch us so easily. Naboo has magnetic ore deposits under its polar caps. No sensor system will help our opponents," Revan concluded, recalling the planet's features.
"Confirmed, Master," the droid nodded slightly. "This plan is optimal for the current conditions."
"Then, let's begin. I'll tell you where to fly on the planet."
"Understood, Master."
The Eagle shuddered, and the view outside the viewport changed from the shapeless haze of hyperspace to the blackness of space. Several ships hung in Naboo's orbit, including a massive station shaped like a broken ring with a sphere in the center of the structure. Or rather, Revan thought it was a station. In reality, as HK-47 explained, it was an LH-3210 dreadnought, a "Lucrehulk-class," one of the main types of Trade Federation ships.
The three-kilometer monster made it clear that it was best not to approach the planet uninvited. The dreadnought was almost six times the size of Revan's former flagship, a "Vigilance-class" cruiser, and its shape and dimensions resembled Republic tactical command ships, like the "Gauntlet-class," used during the Mandalorian Wars.
"Melancholically: As expected, these meat sacks are hailing us on an open channel, Master," the droid reported.
"Connect," the former Sith nodded.
"Attention, unidentified ship!" a squeaky voice of some officer from the Lucrehulk crackled from the cockpit speakers. "This is Captain Tun An Rii of the Trade Federation ship 'Saak'ak'. This planet is under blockade in accordance with the Trade Federation's order and with the approval of the Galactic Senate. State the reason for your arrival in this sector!"
There was no image, only voice communication.
"This is the freighter 'Dawn Eagle', registration number CFV-662584-CRNT. We are en route from Tatooine to Chommell Minor. We apologize, due to inaccurate calculations of the exit point, we slightly missed our intended planet," the former Sith mumbled, convincingly feigning absentmindedness and confusion in his voice.
"Chommell Minor is in the next system!" the interlocutor exclaimed indignantly.
"Ye-e-es," Revan drawled, diligently playing the fool.
"Leave the blockade zone immediately!" demanded the Federation representative.
"Of course, as soon as the navigation computer calculates the jump."
"Don't you have an astromech droid?"
"No, of course not! Where would a poor trader get one?" Revan almost wailed.
Silence hung in the air, during which the enemy fleet officer pondered what he had heard.
There was nothing unusual about a ship that, due to a navigator's error, exited into the wrong system, and therefore nothing suspicious. So, formally, the unknown interlocutor had no reason for aggression.
"You have ten minutes!" he snapped, considering the options. "Calculate your course and get out!"
It was easier to let the incomprehensible vessel go than to explain later why the Trade Federation fleet had destroyed a freighter registered on Coruscant. The incident could, of course, be covered up. But a cargo ship that did not arrive at its destination would be searched for within a few hours. At least, that's what they would do in the Federation.
And the fleet had no need for extra trouble with the Judicial Corps.
"Thank you!" the Jedi replied and, disconnecting the communication, added, "We'll be done in five."
HK's optical sensors flashed in acknowledgment of understanding the hint, and he directed the Eagle towards the planet.
Almost immediately, a call signal came from the Federation flagship, which was promptly ignored.
The ancient took control of the ship himself, as no droid could match a gifted individual in piloting. As he had noticed, the ships blockading the planet were prepared to repel an attack from the surface. Apparently, the main purpose of the blockade was to keep the Naboo ships on the surface of their home planet.
This played into the former Jedi's hands.
The 'Dawn Eagle' shot through the first line of blockade at tremendous speed, not giving the officer who had interrogated Revan with such undisguised superiority in his voice a minute ago even a chance to give the order to open fire. Fortunately, the initial exit point from hyperspace was practically right next to the Neimoidian ships.
By the time the first turbo-laser batteries opened fire, the freighter was already entering the dense layers of Naboo's atmosphere, skillfully evading shots. A couple of minutes later, it disappeared from the sensor screens altogether. In the solid haze of interference in the southern polar region of the planet, it was impossible to discern anything.
Trusting the Force, Revan confidently guided the ship to a point where he sensed several gifted individuals. The Force's aura there was clearly light, meaning they could only be Jedi.
"Looks like we broke through," the ancient listened to his senses.
There was no danger.
"Confidently: There's no pursuit, Master. However, I may be mistaken. The Eagle's sensor system is also blinded due to electromagnetic interference in the polar region," the droid added.
"Don't worry, I know where we're going anyway."
Descending almost to the very treetops, Revan led the ship to where he sensed the presence of the Order's knights.
Finding the gleaming Naboo royal yacht was not difficult. Its chrome plating gleamed like a beacon, even in the shadow of the giant trees. The Queen's guard did not open fire on the unknown ship, for which Revan was sincerely grateful. However, perhaps the Jedi, who should also have sensed the approach of their brother in the Order, had something to do with it. The ancient did not hide his presence in the Force, only adjusting the hue of his aura, burying the darkness deeper.
Several guardsmen immediately aimed their weapons at the lowered cargo ramp, and two Jedi stepped forward and activated their lightsabers.
A few moments later, a figure wrapped in a gray Jedi robe appeared in the opening. Revan had prudently raised his hands, demonstrating peaceful intentions.
"Master Jinn, I am not your enemy," he said loudly.
"Who are you?" Qui-Gon asked, not lowering his sword.
The former Sith bowed his head slightly, his hood pulled down, indicating a bow.
"I am Jedi Knight Avner Van. I have come from Coruscant to help."
Jinn's Padawan visibly relaxed and lowered his blade slightly. But the Magister himself was in no hurry to trust the stranger.
"I have never heard your name," he said suspiciously.
"However, we have met before," Revan shifted his hood slightly, revealing part of his face and looking into Qui-Gon's eyes.
For a few moments, the Jedi peered into the ancient's face, and suddenly he recognized his interlocutor. It was the young man named Vaner he had met on Tatooine. Although he now wore a neat beard, his facial features were quite recognizable.
"You..." Jinn began.
"You recognized me?" Revan smiled. "I'm surprised, since I was in armor that time."
"In armor?" Qui-Gon repeated thoughtfully.
It took the Jedi only a second to put the pieces together. Vaner, Tatooine, a man in armor... REVAN!
His fingers tightened around the hilt of his blade until they cracked. The Jedi tensed, not knowing what to expect from the ancient gifted one.
"Master?" the Padawan wondered at his mentor's behavior.
The former Sith recalled the name of the young man he had seen in the Order's records. His name was Obi-Wan Kenobi. A rather promising Padawan, though too eager to follow the rules. In the ancient's opinion, this teenager was too susceptible to the Council's influence.
"Why are you here?" Qui-Gon asked, regaining his composure.
The Jedi now understood that Revan had not come to fight, otherwise he would not have revealed himself so openly. Here, he had practically stated his name directly to a potential opponent. Moreover, if he had wished them dead, they would not be having such a peaceful conversation now.
"I already said. I want to help," the former Sith replied, not lowering his hands.
"Is it because of the boy?" Jinn guessed.
"If it makes it easier for you to understand my intentions, then yes," nodded the one who called himself Avner.
Obi-Wan shifted his gaze from one man to the other, trying to understand what was happening. By all sensations, he and his teacher were facing a Jedi. Not a trace of darkness, not a hint of threat, only power and confidence. However, his teacher was in no hurry to lower his weapon and looked wary. Perhaps these two had something in common?
"Are we just going to stand here until the Neimoidians find us?" Revan chuckled. "You understand that whatever you plan, my experience will be useful."
Qui-Gon narrowed his eyes slightly, but lowered his sword. Caution and curiosity warred within him. He would very much like to believe Revan, to stand shoulder to shoulder with him, to ask about ancient times, about the former Order. But, at the same time, he understood that before him stood not only a Jedi, but also an ancient Sith. This young-looking man was actually one of the most powerful gifted individuals in history, a talented commander, and an experienced fighter. Barely becoming a knight, he had led an army into one of the bloodiest wars of the past. Moreover, he had achieved the impossible – he had managed to turn the tide of the war and lead the Republic to victory. And then... he fell, but by no means became any less intelligent. In a short period, he created an Empire! A real empire that almost destroyed the Republic! He is a dangerous opponent... and it's better to be on his side. The main thing is that this side is the light one.
"Alright... Avner," Qui-Gon hesitated slightly with the name. "We welcome you to Naboo."
The Jedi deactivated his lightsaber, and his Padawan followed his teacher's example. The ancient lowered his hands with a slight smile.
"A wise decision," he said quietly.
Behind him, unnoticed by anyone, HK-47 retracted his blaster, the barrel of which had been pointed directly at the head of one of the Queen's guards, who had been hiding in the shadows of the trees. A pair of thermal detonators, prepared to be thrown at the Jedi's feet, were returned to the container attached to the droid's waist. The assassin knew perfectly well how to attack a gifted individual.
"Master Jedi!" a girl Revan had seen with them on Tatooine earlier hurried towards Qui-Gon and his Padawan.
"Padmé," the ancient recalled her name.
"Your Highness," Jinn turned to her.
Revan raised an eyebrow slightly, surprised by the address.
"So, this is the Queen of Naboo?" he thought. "Not impressive."
"Who is this person?" she asked with imperious undertones.
"This is Jedi Knight Avner Van from Coruscant. The Council sent him to help us," Qui-Gon explained, preempting Revan, who had opened his mouth. "His experience will be very useful to us."
"Experience?" the girl repeated.
"Yes," Jinn nodded. "Avner has extensive experience in strategic planning, as well as tactical command of combat units."
"From a group of three sentient beings to a full fleet," the Ancient added quietly.
The Queen was clearly surprised by this turn of events.
"But we have already approved the attack plan," she said confidently.
"Attack? Attack on what? And with what forces?" Revan asked.
Several Gungans emerged from the shadows of the trees onto the clearing, among whom a stout Ankura stood out, apparently holding some high position.
"Our all is already decided with Naboo!" the fat man declared loudly. "Our mighty warriors will bring the machines to their doom."
The former Sith spent a few moments processing what he had heard.
Qui-Gon came to his aid.
"Queen Amidala has reached an agreement with the noble Boss Nass for a joint attack on Theed, with the aim of driving the Trade Federation forces from Naboo," the Jedi explained.
"Excuse me?" Revan decided he had misheard. "You want to attack an army of battle droids with the forces of the Gungans and the Royal Guard?"
"Our don't need guard's help," Boss Nass waved dismissively. "We'll break the machines ourselves."
"The guard's forces, meanwhile, will try to break into the royal palace," Amidala added.
"Stop!" the former Jedi raised his hand, calling for them to stop. "Tell me in detail, what have you planned?"
Half an hour later, the "great conspirators and revolutionaries" finished outlining their "brilliant" plan.
The ancient was clearly displeased. More than anything, he disliked unnecessarily risking his soldiers or sacrificing them in vain. And what these "brilliant strategists" were proposing shocked him.
"So," Revan sighed heavily, rubbing his temples. "You're going to field just under a thousand Gungans in an open field against... HK, how many droids does the Federation have?"
"Answer: According to approximate estimates, based on the number of transport ships that Naboo's defense forces managed to detect, the Federation has about 6360 B-1 units, 150 AAT tanks, and an unknown number of droidekas and other equipment," replied the assassin droid, whom the Queen's guards were still eyeing warily.
"Ah," the Ancient nodded. "So, a little over nine hundred Gungans with stones and sticks, against six thousand droids with blaster carbines, and a hundred and fifty assault tanks. And all this so that a handful of guards can break into a hangar near the royal palace and take out how many? A dozen fighters? In the hope of destroying the three-kilometer droid control station? Did I understand correctly?"
"Our not have stones and sticks!" one of the Gungan generals exclaimed indignantly. "Our have boom-booms! And stinging spears!"
"Stones and sticks, that's what I said," Revan retorted.
"They will be covered by a shield dome," the Queen interjected, preventing the native general from pouncing on the Jedi.
"A stationary dome?" the former Sith tilted his head slightly. "The idea would be good if it were a planetary fortress shield, capable of blocking not only blaster bolts and laser cannon fire, but also physical objects. As it is, you'll only have a couple of minutes while the enemy closes in and gets under the dome."
"Our will put an impregnable wall of our warriors with shields!" proudly exclaimed another general.
Revan barely restrained himself from slapping his forehead.
"Do you even understand what you're facing?" he said with unconcealed irritation. "Six thousand barrels firing continuously with blaster carbines. Each plasma bolt strike on a shield is comparable to a blow from a warhammer. How many such blows can your warriors withstand? And what if it's not a carbine, but an AAT cannon?"
"Our warriors are strong and ready for sacrifice," Boss Nass declared pompously.
"When soldiers have to sacrifice themselves or perform heroic deeds, it means the commanders have made a catastrophic mistake," the former Jedi shook his head. "Don't you understand that a catapult against a tank... is..."
"Our warrior is strong!" someone from the Gungans shouted.
"The Cathars shouted the same thing before the Mandalorian troops. But Cassus Fett proved otherwise!" Revan roared.
The Gungans fell silent, but their demeanor clearly showed offense and irritation.
"But otherwise, we won't save Naboo," the Queen perked up. "We must take back our homeworld from the Federation! My people are suffering!"
"Your people?" the former Sith raised an eyebrow. "What about the Gungans?"
"I..." Amidala stammered. "We must... for Naboo."
"Just be quiet, before your hypocrisy becomes even more unbearable," hissed Revan.
"How dare you!" exclaimed the dark-skinned head of the royal guard. "The Queen thinks of all the peoples of Naboo."
"Oh, yes!" the former Sith drawled sarcastically. "I've noticed. Apparently, she's fighting overpopulation in the Gungan cities."
"Ah, you!" the man snapped, but was stopped by Obi-Wan, who was nudged into it by his master.
"Everyone needs to calm down!" Qui-Gon declared loudly. "This argument will lead nowhere!"
The head of the royal guard snorted but sat down. The Queen looked bewildered, and Boss Nass was puffing up with indignation.
"So, Avner, instead of criticism, offer your own plan," suggested Jinn.
Revan rubbed his temples and glanced at the holographic map. He studied the image in silence for a few minutes before answering.
"First of all, marching out in formation into the open field would be a monstrous mistake. Direct confrontation is the last thing we need. We should lure the droid forces here," the Ancient highlighted a hilly area. "Part of the forces, under the shield dome, will be bait between two hills. Behind them, on higher ground, we will place catapults. This will increase their range and allow for more precise aiming. The hills will also limit the capabilities of the AAT tanks, as the vertical aiming angle is severely restricted."
The surrounding individuals, who had initially reluctantly followed the Jedi's explanations, listened with interest and turned their gaze to the map.
"Next, use your riders as mobile units with the classic hit-and-run tactic. Arm them with your boom-booms. Let them attack from the flanks and get into the rear, under the cover of the hills. Don't wait for the enemy to get under the shield dome, retreat and pull the front back. Here and here," Revan pointed to the hills on either side of the central plateau. "Position two squads of shooters. I have a couple of heavy ASR repeaters. I'll show you how to handle them. Wait until the droids get closer, concentrating on your comrades under the shield, and then destroy them with crossfire. Then, the central unit should immediately advance, shorten the distance, and finish off the survivors. B-1s are quite fragile and can be disabled even by a strong blow from a sturdy stick. Pick up their weapons! Fight back!"
"There are too few of them," Qui-Gon shook his head.
The Ancient exhaled.
"Yes, there are few of them, but this way they can inflict maximum damage on the Federation army before the droids retaliate. Let's hope our tactics cause a lot of trouble for the tactical AI of the control station. The chances are slim, but they are greater than with a frontal attack."
"And what about the second part of the plan?" the Queen clarified.
"You mean attacking the station in space and capturing the palace?"
"Yes."
"Although I consider it foolish, there's no other way. The station must be destroyed, which means attacking it in space," the former Sith seemed surprised by his own words. "However, we should suppress the enemy's air defense systems before takeoff to reduce losses during takeoff. The fighter group should be divided into two wings. The first will attack the station, and the second will provide cover from vulture droids."
"Observation: Master, N-1 starfighters lack sufficient firepower to penetrate the shields and armor of a Lucrehulk-class battleship," HK-47 intervened.
"Suggestions?" the Ancient turned his head to him.
"Tactical suggestion: The main hangar bay doors are not equipped with force fields. Droids do not need to maintain atmosphere on the flight deck."
"So there's no defense there?" someone from the royal guard clarified.
"Affirmative."
"Hmm... The hangar and flight deck were designed for mass deployment of vulture droids," the former Sith mused. "Their dimensions allow a light fighter to maneuver freely right inside."
"Addendum: According to the schematics available from the Hoersch-Kessel Drive company, one of the main reactor cooling units is located in the room adjacent to the hangar, Master."
"So, a lucky shot could destroy the entire ship?" one of the pilots present at the meeting wondered.
"Yeah, but you could break your neck doing that!" the second retorted. "There's only about five meters from the side to the wall! A slight mistake and you'll be smeared across the deck!"
"Ha, I volunteer for a one-way trip!" the first chuckled. "If it allows us to take down this monster with one shot and minimal losses, then why not?"
After ten minutes of lively debate, everyone agreed that the option of boarding through the hangar would be the most effective.
Mentally, Revan noted that he should keep Anakin away from the fighters. God forbid the boy decides to play the hero, and his training will be cut short before it even begins.
"Good thing they didn't let him into the meeting," the Ancient thought. "I'll have to assign HK to him."
He hadn't met Anakin on Naboo yet. Qui-Gon hadn't let the boy off the Nabooian royal yacht. Apparently, he was afraid Revan would just take him and fly away.
"And what about storming the palace?" Amidala interjected.
Qui-Gon glanced meaningfully at the former Sith.
"I'll go with you," Jedi Knight Avner Van nodded. "But we'll attack from two different points."
"Explain?" Jinn unfolded the palace map.
"Initially, we'll break through here, through the garden behind the palace. Then we'll split up and go along two parallel routes. This way, we won't let the enemy trap us."
"Reasonable. We should coordinate the attack," Qui-Gon agreed.
Nodding, Revan began to explain his idea. No one present doubted the young knight's abilities anymore and hung on his every word.
Developing the new plan took the rest of the day.
And in the morning... there will be a battle!