Chapter 45: The Zillo Beast Strikes Back
The most dangerous beast is the beast within.
Recap: A calculated risk. Following a costly victory on the planet Malastare, Chancellor Palpatine orders Jedi Masters Mace Windu and Luna, along with Jedi Knights Anakin Skywalker, and Storm to transport a fearsome Zillo Beast captured during the battle back to Coruscant. After seeing that not even a lightsaber could harm the beast, Chancellor Palpatine hopes to unlock the secret of its invulnerability to create new armor for the Republic's clone troopers. Tensions run high as the most dangerous life-form in the galaxy touches down on the Republic's most populous planet.
A giant Republic ship was shown entering Coruscant's atmosphere. It soon was starting to touch down on the planet's surface as it parked near an observatory. At that moment, tons of clone troopers and AT-TE walkers were on standby as the ramp was extending.
"Let's go! Move it! Move it!" shouted a clone to the other as they all ran with their weapons in tow.
"Come on! Come on! I can see it!" shouted another clone as the ramp touched the runway.
"Stand your ground!"
Some dramatic music played as soon as the Zillo Beast came into view. The clones underneath their helmets saw the creature, and they couldn't help but gasp. The AT-TE walkers all aimed their guns at the platform carrying the beast.
"Watch it. Watch it!" shouted a clone.
The doors behind the clones opened up as a gunship was flying above. It touched down as on it was Anakin, Windu, Luna, and Storm. Emerging from the observatory was Chancellor Palpatine as he was being accompanied by Senate commandos and his Vice-Chair, Mass Amedda. The Jedi stepped out as they saw the Chancellor and walked towards him.
"Your Excellency," said Anakin as they all stood and looked at the beast roll by.
"Such size... such power," said the Chancellor with a smile on his face.
"With respect Chancellor. I believe this creature could pose any number of dangers," said Windu.
"Bringing it here to Coruscant is a mistake," stated Luna trying to prove her point.
"Oh, I assure you, I did not make this decision lightly, Master Jedi. The sooner we unlock the Zillo Beast's secrets, the sooner we can end this terrible war," said Palpatine to both Jedi Masters.
"I hope you're right, Chancellor," responded Luna.
The beast was starting to enter the observatory as Dr. Boll was approaching them with robots that were going to be used for examination of the creature. Windu then approached the doctor.
"I'm turning the Zillo Beast over to you, Doctor. I trust it will be given good care," said Windu.
"The beast is a priceless resource, Master Windu. It will be well treated, I assure you," said the doctor.
The Jedi then began to leave with R2 as the Chancellor met with the doctor. Both Windu and Luna took a sec to stop and look at them, and the beast as their worries still plagued their mind. With Palpatine, he had a smile on his face when the beast entered behind him. The pair then entered the gunship as it zoomed away.
Inside the Jedi Temple, Windu and Luna were in the Council room. Upon arriving, Luna told Storm to return to his quarters for the time being as she had some business to discuss. She was currently with Windu as they were talking with Obi-wan about the beast.
"Why would the Chancellor want to bring the beast here?" asked Obi-wan as he held a device that had the details of their report. "I know he thinks by studying it the knowledge could prove beneficial but what you all reported on Malastare, it hardly seems worth the effort."
"Exactly our thoughts, Kenobi," said Luna as she stood across from the Jedi Master with her arms crossed.
"We raised the issue with the Chancellor during the battle of Malastare... without success," said Windu as he turned from looking out the window to Kenobi.
"Well, then, in that case, perhaps it's time to let someone else try," said Obi-wan.
"And I think I know who you're referring to," said Luna.
Eventually, both Luna and Obi-wan left as they were going somewhere. Storm was in his Jedi quarters as the boy was tossing a ball up into the air and catching it all while looking at the ceiling. The sounds of his door opened as he saw the both Obi-wan and his master entered.
"Why I get the feeling that I'm in trouble?" asked the boy as the doors closed behind the Jedi Masters.
Meanwhile, in the lab, the experiment was underway. The Zillo Beast was now awake as it was being held in place. The beast let out a howl as it was being sedated and restrained. The doctor was in a pod that hovered to the creature's face as she was overseeing the procedures. One of the robots was on the walkway that led to the creature's side of its face as its claws were out. It got a hold of one of its scales and began to pull as the beast roared in pain. Another smaller robot came in and quickly injected a liquid into the beast. The beast let out a shriek while looking at the doctor.
"That's enough," commanded Dr. Boll as the robots backed off.
Another pod appeared as it hovered next to the doctor as on it was the Chancellor and his Vice-Chair.
"Its scales are remarkably strong and light. If we could examine their composition we might be able to synthesize them to reinforce our clone army."
"And what is stopping you?" asked the Chancellor.
"We need to remove the scales first. It's very difficult, not to mention painful," said the doctor.
"Would it not be more efficient to simply kill the beast?" said Palpatine without a care in his tone. His response got the doctor and his Vice-Chair to be surprised.
"Kill it? Are you sure?" said Mas Amedda.
"Chancellor, I must protest. Besides being the last of its kind, this creature may be intelligent," stated Dr. Boll.
"I find that hard to believe. It is, after all, just an animal," replied the Chancellor. The Zillo Beast heard that as he growled at the human.
"It didn't seem to like your comment," said the doctor.
The beast was staring at Palpatine as it growled. For the creature could sense the Chancellor's true intentions as it wanted nothing more than to dispose of him.
"I applaud your high moral stance, Doctor. After all, principle is in short supply these days. However, every passing minute of warfare brings countless deaths. Deaths that could be prevented once the beast's secrets are unlocked. If there is any way to hasten that process it is our moral duty to explore it." said Palpatine.
"I serve at your pleasure, Chancellor," sighed Dr. Boll. "I'm just not sure where to begin. The fact remains that the beast is indestructible."
"Nothing is truly indestructible, Doctor," glared the Chancellor at the beast. "Wasn't there something in Malastare fuel that affected the beast?"
"It weakened the Zillo, yes, but--"
"Excellent," said Palpatine cutting off the doctor. "I suggest you start there. Doctor, you need to find a way to kill that beast or we shall replace you with someone who can."
The Chancellor's pod then began to leave as the Zillo Beast glared and roared at the human one last time. For the creature could see who the Chancellor truly was and his evil intentions.
At the Senate, Obi-wan had arrived as he was accompanied by Storm. Luna had informed her student to go with Kenobi to meet with who they thought could convince the Chancellor about the crisis of having the Zillo Beast on Coruscant. Though the Jedi Knight was surprised by what his master said, especially since she said that he needed to stay close to her, Luna informed Storm that he was simply going to talk with someone. So there was no need to be worried about her protégé being in any danger. Storm trusted his master as he left with his friend as the two arrived at the Senate building.
The pair entered the place as tons of senators and representatives were walking about. They soon came to who they were meeting with as they were accompanied by a yellow protocol droid.
"Good to see you, Senator Amidala," said Obi-wan as he and Storm bowed.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, General Kenobi, and General Storm," stated Padme as she bowed in respect. She then couldn't help herself as she hugged the boy.
"Nice to see you missed me, Padme," smiled Storm as he returned the hug to the senator who was like a big sister to him.
"Did you get hurt while you were with General Skywalker?" asked Padme.
"A little, but nothing to keep me down," responded Storm with a smile.
The Senator chuckled a bit as she rubbed his hair. The boy laughed as a squeak was heard. Turns out there was another person present. Standing behind the Senator of Naboo was another representative as they had pink hair.
"Oh, right, I forgot," Padme then stepped to the side as there stood Fluttershy who immediately squeaked at being out in the open with the Jedi.
"This here is Fluttershy, she's a representative and caretaker for every animal in the galaxy. Whenever there's an issue involving an animal, she's the one that speaks on their behalf. She's got a way of... how do you say... understanding what they're trying to say." spoke Padme.
"What does that mean?" asked Storm as he didn't fully grasp what the senator was saying.
"I'll let you two have some time. General Kenobi, if you would inform me on the matter that you wish me to present to the Chancellor?"
"Of course, Senator," replied Obi-wan as he and Padme walked and talked with 3P0 in tow as Storm was left with the girl who was slightly younger than him.
Storm watched his friends leave before turning back at the buttercup girl who stood there quietly as she looked like she wanted to hide.
"Hello!" said Storm as Fluttershy yelped a bit. The yellow girl said nothing, but looked away shyly, rubbing a foot on the ground. Soon he realized his mistake.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to frighten you. I'm Storm, Jedi Knight, and apprentice to Jedi Master Luna. What's your name?" Storm knew Fluttershy's name, but he wanted to hear from the girl so that he could get to know her.
"Um... I'm Fluttershy," the girl replied in a quiet tone.
"I'm sorry, what was that?" Storm asked, unable to hear it.
"Um... My name is Fluttershy," she replied again, but she was even softer.
"Didn't quite catch that," Storm added, feeling more awkward.
Fluttershy just squeaked as the boy just stood smiling as sweat fell down the side of his face. Storm couldn't help but smile; he always was a sucker for shy girls.
"Oookay," replied the boy uneasy, as he decided to move on with their conversation. He then thought about what Padme told him about how she cared for animals. "So...um... you... like animals?" asked Storm hoping to change the topic.
"Of course I do!!" said the girl looking at the boy with a smile. Immediately, her personality almost completely reversed.
"Gees, that was fast!" said Storm to himself.
He now saw the girl leaning towards him as he told her to back up a bit, which she did and hid behind her hair once more as a blush came over her face.
"So, Padme tells me that you... talk... to animals?" asked the boy while raising an eyebrow.
"Well, not actually. More like, I can understand what they feel," said Fluttershy as Storm. "To me, animals are just like humans."
"Um, that part... kinda is true, I guess. Seeing as how there are bad people in the galaxy, the same can go for animals. But the real question is: how do you know if a creature is really bad?" asked the Jedi Knight.
"Simple signs. The way they express themselves. Their eyes. Their attitude. And even their heart."
"Huh?" replied Storm in a dumbfounded voice.
"You can truly understand what a creature feels by listening to its heart. Being able to connect on a personal level with them. Only by seeing the world through their eyes can you fully understand what they see." said Fluttershy.
"Um, that's... um... I'm not sure how to answer that," said Storm as he was seeing what the girl was saying to a certain degree about animals being like humans.
"Sorry, I must be boring you. And you probably think I'm annoying," said Fluttershy as she looked to hide behind her hair again.
"No! No, you're not annoying me, per se. I... just didn't expect to meet someone so passionate about animals, is all. Especially, you know, someone whose shy and... cute." smiled Storm sheepishly.
His response also got her to smile sheepishly as the two stood there in silence looking away now and then. Storm soon cleared his throat as he began to talk more with the girl. He found out that she came from the same planet as Senator Organa and that he often considered the girl like a niece to her. Since her love and admiration for animals were unmatched by anybody else, the Republic allowed Fluttershy to be their representative when it came to political matters. So in a way, the creatures of the galaxy had a voice through the shy buttercup girl. The pair soon moved on as Fluttershy asked Storm about being a Jedi.
"Is it scary? You know, having to fight every battle against droids?" asked the girl.
"It definitely takes its toll on you. The main job of any Jedi is to survive and maintain peace throughout the galaxy. And with the current war going on, we're spread thinly that we can't cover all sections of the galaxy. This is why we have people like Padme to discuss negotiations with sectors and planets to try to sway them to our side in times of crisis."
"I see. Well, I hope I did my part in convincing Toydaria to join our side." said the girl as she was reminded of the adventure she had.
"I appreciate that you were able to convince the King to meet with me and Master Yoda. It takes a team effort and sometimes we don't appreciate those who are behind the scenes. Thanks for helping during that time, Fluttershy."
"Oh, thanks," said the girl, putting her hands behind her back and letting her hair cover her face. She was tracing her foot on the ground as she looked at the boy. "So, are we... friends? I mean, if you want? If not, I understand."
"I would love to be friends. It can't hurt to have a representative in the back of my pocket. Plus, I kind of have a soft spot for shy girls." replied the boy as he smiled at her.
Storm extended his hand out for Fluttershy to shake. He was hoping the girl would shake it, but instead, he was given a hug as his answer. After all this time talking, Fluttershy was listening to Storm as she could tell he was someone who meant well and wanted nothing more than to end the war. That alone gave her the confidence to trust the boy. So she responded with a tight hug as she buried her face into his Jedi clothes as the boy stood there in shock. He looked down at the girl as he saw her pink hair. The Jedi Knight wasn't a big fan of being hugged, yet, he didn't mind when Fluttershy did it. Mainly cause it was her personality that this was probably the way she expressed herself to someone. That and because, her shy nature was rather cute, even for someone like him. The boy simply smiled as he returned the gesture without hesitation. After they parted for a bit, they soon walked to where Padme and Obi-wan were located.
They could see the new friendship formed by the teens as they smiled. They began to inform them of what they were discussing. At that moment, a ship was shown flying towards the Senate building. He exited his ship and was accompanied by R2. The Jedi and droid entered the place as senators and important officials were walking about. They were making their way to meet with someone and when Anakin saw them, he was shocked by who else he saw. R2 rolled up to 3P0 as he gave a beep to his friend.
"Oh, hello. You're not in trouble again, are you?" asked the protocol droid to the blue astromech droid.
R2 beeped at his friend with an excited tone.
"I am not being rude," replied 3P0 to his mischievous friend.
"Not that it isn't a pleasure, Senator, but I thought I was just meeting Obi-wan and Storm here," said Anakin as he didn't expect to see his wife present.
"Master Kenobi explained the problem. I'm here to help," said Padme.
"Problem? What problem?" asked Anakin before glaring at his master.
"The situation with our friend from Malastare," replied Kenobi.
"The one that tried to kill us," added Storm, rolling his hand to let Anakin get the message.
"Uh-huh. I see what's going on here. You all think I could help influence the Chancellor." said Anakin.
"I mean, you're the one he trusts the most," answered Storm.
"Please, General Skywalker. The Zillo Beast was chained up and brought here against its will. It has no voice to defend itself." spoke Fluttershy as that got everybody to look at her.
They didn't expect the shy girl to make her voice heard so quickly, but given they were dealing with an animal, they should have expected that. Fluttershy now realized what she did herself as she quickly made herself smaller.
"Who is this?" asked Anakin.
"Her's name is Fluttershy. When it comes to animal issues, she's the representative for them. Plus, she's my new friend I made." said Storm putting his hand on the girl to give her some confidence. "She's very passionate about this issue. Plus, how can you say no to that face?"
"I can't," said Anakin as he could see what Storm meant as Fluttershy was just so cute, and being shy made her that much more adorable. "Well, pleased to make your acquaintance. Any friend of my pal here is a friend of mine." Fluttershy extended her hand as she shook it with the Jedi Knight as they smiled.
"Anakin, we have to be that voice," said Padme reminding her husband of their discussion.
"You haven't seen it in action," chuckled the Jedi Knight. "And I'm surprised that Storm here didn't tell you about it. You have no idea what it's capable of."
"It's what we're capable of that frightens me," replied Padme. "A creature's life... maybe even an entire species, is at stake. Doesn't that at least warrant a discussion?"
Anakin just sighed, "I didn't think you'd feel so strongly about it."
"It helps when someone else is just as passionate as you," smiled Padme while gesturing to Fluttershy as the shy girl now hid behind Storm.
"I hate how you can pick your friends wisely, Storm," replied Anakin to his buddy as the shy nature of the buttercup girl was all it took, along with his wife, to see their reasoning. "All right, let's speak to the Chancellor. But I still don't like this."
The group was now inside the Chancellor's office as Obi-wan had to leave. He was confident in both Padme's and Fluttershy's ability, as well as, Anakin's relationship with the Chancellor that he left it in their hands.
"I should have known secrets do not stay secret for long around here," said Palpatine.
"Isn't that precisely the point of a democracy?" asked Anakin.
"Of course, in wartime, some things must be kept secret even from the people, so as not to aid the enemy," replied Anakin as he countered his wife's question while looking at her. Safe to say, Padme gave a glare at her husband.
"Calling the kettle black there, bitch," coughed Storm silently so that only Anakin heard as the Jedi Knight punched his friend in the arm for calling him out with his own answer.
"It is unfortunate that the beast must die, Senator. But the greater good demands it," replied Mas Amedda.
"How is killing the last of a species in secret and without debate good for anyone?" asked Fluttershy as she made her presence known.
"Oh good, the animal girl is here," mumbled the Vice-Chair. "Don't you both have more pressing issues that require your attention today?" he responded while glaring at the two.
"No, Mr. Speaker, we do not," said Padme as she stood their ground.
"I sympathize, my dears. Truly, I do. But consider this. A democracy is only as strong as the people who comprise it. At present, the people I am charged with protecting are dying faster than I can count."
"But does it come at the cost of an animal's life? They're have jut as much rights as we do," replied Fluttershy.
"Ms. Fluttershy, let me ask you something? Do you know what the difference is between a man and a beast? The difference between animals and humans is that animals change themselves for the environment, but humans change the environment for themselves." said the Chancellor as he got out of his chair and made his point.
"It is my moral imperative to take action," said the Chancellor as he then approached Anakin and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Anakin, is it not worth the life of one savage beast to give our brave troops the advantage they need to win this war?" asked Palpatine hoping to have him convince his wife to see his reasoning.
"My role is not to set policy, Chancellor," said Anakin walking in between him and his wife as he didn't want to choose sides. "But I do see both points of view."
"And General Storm, your opinion on the matter?" asked the Chancellor to the boy.
"My response is the same as Anakin. While both Senator Amidala and Representative Fluttershy make good points about a creature's well-being, one can argue wanting to study it for science. But we as Jedi can't interfere in matters that don't directly involve us. I'm sure General Skywalker shares the same thought, but I'm certain a reasonable solution will present itself." replied the Jedi Knight.
"Master Luna and Master Kenobi have taught you both well," smiled Palpatine at them.
"Chancellor," called out the Vice-Chair.
"Excuse me."
While the Chancellor went to discuss things with his Vice-Chair, Padme pulled aside her husband as she was unhappy.
"You're supposed to be helping," said Padme with a glare. "Whose side are you on, anyway?"
"Yours, but..."
"Bullshit," coughed Storm again as Anakin couldn't help but glare at his friend calling his bluff once more.
"You must admit the Chancellor makes some good points," said Anakin to his wife as she continued to glare at him.
"Just remember that when you're sleeping on the couch tonight, Anakin," said Storm once more as his friend glared at his pal.
"Oh, trust me, he will be," said Padme as the Jedi Knight was starting to regret going against his wife. In the background, Storm couldn't help but laugh at seeing his friend in hot water.
Back in Boll's lab, she was still working on the Zillo Beast's secrets. The creature let out a howl as the doctor was contacting the Chancellor.
"Ah, Dr. Boll. I trust you have some progress to report."
"Yes, Chancellor. I was able to covert the Malastare fuel toxin into a poison gas. I believe it's strong enough to kill the Zillo Beast if... that's still how you wish to proceed." said Dr. Boll as she was still hesitant about going forward with this plan.
"I wish I saw an alternative. However, sadly, I must ask you to proceed with your assignment," stated the Chancellor as the transmission ended.
With a heavy sigh, the doctor began to do her job. One of the droids floated by her as she put the canister of gas into its back. She looked at the beast as even she didn't like that she was being forced to do this to such an incredible creature.
"I'm sorry. Don't worry. It will all be over soon." said the doctor with a genuine sad tone in her voice. "Begin procedure."
The droid then started to spray the poisonous gas in an attempt to euthanize the Zillo beast.
"Vital signs are dropping," said Dr. Boll as she looked at her scanner.
However, the moment it sprayed a little amount in front of its face, something happened. Instead of putting the creature down, it seemed to anger it. It let out a howl as the gas had made the monster agitated and aggressive. It then broke the bonds it was in as the fury it had was on full display and taking over.
"No. It should have been enough," said Dr. Boll as she was worried.
The Zillo Beast let out a roar as it had fully broken its binds as it began to march forward. Its tail had smacked the pod the doctor was in as she crashed to the floor. On the outside, there were clones and all types of machinery on standby. Soon a thud was heard. They all turned around with their guns aimed.
"I don't like the sound of that," said a clone looking at the wall.
"If that creature is as powerful as they say, what good are these rifles going to do?" asked another clone while aimed at the lab.
"Ah, shut up, Kosmos."
Another thud was heard as the laboratory walls were shown to have a dent from the inside. Then one last ram against the wall sent it flying into the clones and their weapons as the beast was shown. It then began to climb over the laboratory as it disappeared. Inside, clones were looking and helping any survivors. Smoke had resulted as many were injured from the Zillo Beast. The pod the doctor was in was shown as she appeared okay after it crashed. She stepped out of the lab to see the damage caused by the creature. She then heard some howling in the distance as she looked in the direction it came from. She saw a trail of destruction that the beast had created on its warpath for vengeance.
"Oh, no."
Nighttime had fully taken over the planet as the Chancellor was in his office. He was contacting the doctor to see what the latest was on the Zillo Beast.
"Doctor, were you successful?"
"We have a problem, sir."
At that moment, alarms were blaring. Storm and Anakin were still in the office with Padme and Fluttershy as they heard the sirens. They all looked out the window as in the distance, they could see smoke and fire. Zooming in on that area, the Zillo Beast was on a rampage as it was destroying everything in its path as it walked along its new surroundings. People were running scared as they looked to get out of the creature's path.
"We need time to covert the Malastare fuel into more toxin, Chancellor."
"I suggest you hurry, Doctor," said the Chancellor with urgency in his voice.
"Evacuate the staff to the underground shelters," ordered Padme to 3P0.
"Stay with General Kenobi and General Luna. We're on our way," said Anakin as he and Storm were contacting Rex and Sark.
"Better hurry, sirs. You're missing all the fun," replied Rex.
"No shit," snickered Storm as the transmission ended with both boys smiling.
The Zillo Beast was still on a warpath of chaos as it continued to destroy anything caught in its way. There were a few gunships that were attacking it, but their shots didn't have much effect. The creature roared as it began to swat a few of them as they were destroyed. It then heard a voice as down the alleyway was a billboard that had the Chancellor's face as it was a recorded message that was put out during this emergency. The monster's rage was fueled even more as it began to make its way to the billboard. It took out the remaining gunships and the bridges along the way as there were people on it as they went flying. The Zillo Beast approached the billboard as it ran through it.
It then began to look for the Chancellor as it wanted to kill him. It tore apart the nearby apartments looking for its target but to no avail. It then began to climb a tall building as it came to the roof and stood up. It saw the Senate building as that's where its target was. It let out one more roar while standing on the roof as it showed the city around it like a scene out of a monster movie. It then began to make its way to where its target was located.
"It's coming this way!" said Padme as she noticed the Zillo Beast when it was in range.
"What?" said Fluttershy as she was now scared.
It showed the Zillo Beast getting closer as it was on the down levels of the Senate and running towards them. It then did a great leap into the air as it landed on the building which got everybody inside to feel it as they buckled.
"Perhaps now would be a good time to evacuate to the lower levels," suggested Anakin with slight fear in his tone.
R2 beeped and wasted no time in high-tailing it. With the humans, they all turned behind to the window as there was the creature's eye, staring at them. Particularly at the Chancellor.
"Yes, we are going now," said the Chancellor as he was even scared of the monster.
They all ran to the nearby elevators as the droids followed behind them. The beast now began to climb higher as it started to look for them. During this time, several gunships were shown flying across the city. Onboard were Windu, Obi-wan, and Luna as they all were being contacted by Master Yoda.
"Desperately needed the tanks are."
"We're almost at the loading dock, Master Yoda," replied Windu.
"Dire the situation has become," spoke the Jedi Master as he was in the communications room of the Jedi Temple along with Aayla Secura and Celestia. "Before more lives are lost, act quickly we must."
"I knew I shouldn't have let Storm out of my sight. What was I thinking?" stated Luna at how her student was in the direct line of danger with the monster. She was blaming herself for not keeping her apprentice safe during this dangerous time.
"Calm yourself, Lulu. What's done is done. But if you want to make sure that he and the others are safe from the beast, then you need to stop it." stated Celestia to her sister.
They were overhead the laboratory as more gunships picked up the stun tanks that they were going to use as they followed behind the Jedi Masters. As for Anakin and Storm, they had made it to a secret route that was constructed for the Chancellor in case of emergencies.
"My security staff insisted on adding this emergency escape route."
"At this point, we'll take anything to get away from the beast," replied Storm to the Chancellor as they began to load into the ship.
They all began to sit down as Palpatine was receiving a transmission from Dr. Boll.
"Chancellor, I think we may have enough toxin now."
"My guards will be with you shortly. Hand the gas over to them immediately."
"Does it have to be destroyed? asked Fluttershy as she and Padme overheard the conversation.
"The Jedi stun cannons--"
"Will not eliminate the problem," said the Chancellor cutting off the Senator. "Our advanced technology simply cannot contain it."
"I wish we had never brought the beast here," sighed Padme in anger.
The ship was now preparing to take off as our group was unaware of what was in front of them when the hangar doors opened.
"Pardon me, Mistress Padme but I believe something is following us," said 3P0 as he looked to the roof of their ship.
"Evasive action!" shouted Anakin to the Senate commando who was driving.
He began to fly out of the hangar and do that, but the Zillo Beast caught their ship without any issue. It then brought the ship to its eyes as it locked in on the Chancellor.
"We're doomed!" said 3P0 as they couldn't move from the monster's clutches.
The driver put his foot on the pedal to try to wiggle free from the monster's grip but it soon grabbed them and held them in place as the driver still floored the gas.
At that moment, the clone gunships arrived. The stun tanks were dropped on the lower levels of the Senate as they began to roll forward.
"All tanks acquire solution and prepare to fire on my order," said Windu to his comlink.
The three Jedi Masters were about to execute their plan when they were interrupted by some surprise guests.
"Hold your fire," spoke Master Yoda as he was present with Aayla and Celestia. "In the beast's clutches, the Chancellor is."
"Anakin and Storm might be with him, and Senator Amidala along with Representative Fluttershy," spoke Obi-wan.
"If the beast falls, at risk their lives shall be," informed Yoda as Luna let out a small gasp knowing her student was that close to the action.
With our group, they were still stuck in the Zillo Beast's grip. It looked to rip apart the ship in an attempt to get to its target.
"I got an idea, but it's risky," said Anakin as he stood up from his chair and raced to the back of the ship. "Give me a hand, Storm."
"Considering the circumstances, I'll take that risk," replied Padme as she watched her friends do their work.
"Just know, that if I die and you make it out alive. Luna is gonna kill you," stated Storm to his friend as the pair was cutting the ship with their lightsabers.
"Then don't die," said Anakin as he was scared of what Luna would do to him.
"I've got a bad feeling about this," said the Chancellor as he saw what the Jedi Knights were doing.
"Sirs, looks like the generals are up to something," said Sark as he was accompanied by Rex. He handed some binoculars to Luna and Windu as they were seeing what the boys were doing.
The pair could see the Jedi Knights cutting the ship as it got them confused.
"What are they doing?" asked Windu before handing it to Obi-wan. Now both Jedi Masters were seeing their students as they both let out stressful sighs.
"It appears to be one of Anakin's improvised plans," sighed Obi-wan in defeat.
"How can it be a plan if it's improvised?" asked Windu.
"And Luna, I thought Storm was supposed to keep Skywalker in check when doing things like this?" asked Celestia as she was handed the binoculars by her sister so she could look. "Twilight would never do anything like that."
"Yes, because she's just like you, sister," snickered the Jedi Master to her older sibling. "And as for Storm, it seems he couldn't convince Skywalker of another idea. But given their current predicament, I can't blame them for thinking on the fly." said Luna with a similar sigh as Obi-wan as she shook her head.
"Not to worry. Just catch them when they fall," replied Kenobi with a nonchalant tone as he knew what was going to happen regarding his friends and the similar situations they found themselves in.
"A lot of the General's plan involved falling," commented Rex as he was talking about Anakin.
"Distract the beast we shall to give Skywalker and Storm more time," stated Yoda as he, Aayla, and Celestia all boarded a gunship.
They were now zooming towards the Zillo Beast as it still had our heroes in its grip. The ship then got in the face of the creature as it howled. The three Jedi Masters were seeing the creature up close and personal. It circled once more as all three turned on their lightsabers and jumped out of the ship. They landed on the beast's neck and began to run along its body. With those slight moments of distraction, the Jedi Knights had just finished cutting their side of the ship and were about to meet in the middle.
"I hope you both know what you're doing," said the Chancellor.
"Honestly, we have no idea either," said Storm as R2 beeped to back up his claim.
"Here's where the funs begins. Hang on!" shouted Anakin as their lightsabers touched.
The moment they touched the ship broke apart. The front part of the ship fell off as our group held on for dear life. They were slid down the roof of the Senate building as it was anything but a bumpy ride. They fell to the second level as the bump caused the droids, the Jedi Knights, and the girls to be launched out as they were sliding. The Chancellor was still in the front part with his bodyguard as they were in front of them.
"Catch it!" shouted Obi-wan.
He, Windu, and Luna all put their hands out as they were using the Force to save the Chancellor. It took the effort of all three powerful Jedi Masters to try to get the piece to slow down as it ground against the surface it was sliding. It was about to go over the edge and hit the floor way down below as the Jedi grunted by applying more of their power to stop it. Soon the piece came to a stop, and they all let out a sigh of relief.
The beast was currently still distracted by the three Jedi Masters on its back as they were running up and down its body with their lightsabers trailing behind them. It brought its mouth close to where they were on its back as they all air stepped and flipped in between the scales to escape danger.
"Ani!" shouted Padme as she was still sliding and was approaching the edge of the building.
"Storm!" shouted Fluttershy.
"Hang on!" replied the Jedi Knight as he shifted to sliding onto his feet as did Anakin.
For Skywalker, Padme was hanging on the ledge as Anakin stopped a few meters ahead and was reaching out while using the Force to slow down and approach her. R2 was sliding as well as he went over the edge. The little blue astromech droid managed to hang on to the side of the building as he had a grapple plunger shoot out as he hung. At that moment, 3P0 also fell off but managed to grab onto R2 as the droids were safe.
As for Storm, he was trying to use the Force to slow Fluttershy's movements while also trying to bring his feet to a halt. It seemed to be working, but the momentum had built up too much as Fluttershy was now starting to go over. Soon everything move in slow motion as the girl was shown falling backward off the ledge while an expression came on the boy's face. It showed Fluttershy's hand as soon another came into frame and quickly grabbed hers as time resumed back to normal.
It panned out to show that Storm had grabbed Fluttershy's arm with his left hand while he was dangling with his right hand. The girl looked down as she was terrified at how high they were before looking up at her friend.
"Storm, I'm scared," squeaked Fluttershy.
"Yeah, I know. It's high, but don't look down. Look at me. I promise, we're going to be alright." said the boy trying to put a smile on his face.
Storm was hoping to show some optimism for Fluttershy so that the girl wouldn't get even more afraid. It worked for a bit as the girl closed her eyes and held on.
Storm now began to lift himself up using his strength. He managed to pull himself up as he got on top. He now turned and used his other hand to pull Fluttershy up as the girl still had her eyes close and was holding her breath. She was preparing herself for whatever happened next as she was scared. Eventually, she opened her eyes and saw that Storm pulled her up as they sat while taking some deep breaths to calm themselves from the near-death experience they both had.
"I... told you... we're going to be fine," said Storm taking some breaths.
He was then tackled by the girl as she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her head into his chest. For the boy, he could hear the tears coming from the girl as she was still scared of what happened. Her fear was on display as all she needed right now was to be safe. The Jedi Knight wasted no time in wrapping his arms around her as he began to stroke her hair.
"Hey. Hey. It's okay. It's okay, Fluttershy. We're safe. You're alright." said Storm trying to calm the girl down as he soothed her. "There, there. It's okay. You're safe. I promise, so long as I'm here, no harm will come to you." The boy continued to calm the girl as Fluttershy was letting it all out.
Soon she broke from the grip as he looked at her. There were still small tears dripping down as Storm brought both his hands up to her cheeks and wiped them.
"It's alright. Being scared is a normal feeling. Just like being brave. And you were brave just now. Being able to hold on and not let your fear get to you." said Storm with a smile as he brought the girl in for another gentle embrace as she finished whatever tears she had left while the boy just waited for her to finish.
"Hey, Fluttershy. Look at me. You know what's great about fear?" asked the boy as she pulled back to look at him.
"Nothing," answered Fluttershy.
"No, it's not that. It's that you're actually bigger than it," stated the Jedi Knight putting his hands on her shoulder.
"What do you mean?" asked the girl as she was confused by what the Jedi was saying.
"Well... fear is inside of you, right? And you're bigger than anything that's inside of you. So once you decide that you're the boss, the fear will start to go away." stated Storm.
"I'm... bigger than my fear," said Fluttershy as she spoke that to herself to which she could feel hear her nerves and heartbeat starting to clam down.
While Storm was dealing with Fluttershy, Anakin had managed to also pull up his wife from danger as he held her. The Zillo Beast had taken out the gunship that was circling as it went flying. It then turned its attention to the Chancellor who was still on the ledge inside the front part of the shuttle. The rest of the gunships and Jedi Masters now began to take off.
"All pilots, fire," commanded Luna.
The gunships heard the command as they began to shoot at the Zillo Beast. The three Jedi Masters on its back were still running along its scales as the beast's attention was all over the place. The beast shrieked as it began to retaliate and took out some gunships. The stun tanks on the ground began to fire at the beast as they were hoping to put it to sleep like last time.
"Sir, we have to get you out of here," said the Senate commando to the Chancellor.
They exited the pod and they soon came face to face with the Zillo Beast. The giant monster was just a jaws distance away from taking out the Chancellor. A few meters away were Anakin and Padme, as well as Storm and Fluttershy as they all made it safely down to the next level where the Chancellor was.
"R2, get over there!"
The blue droid gave a beep to 3P0 as the yellow droid held onto the rope. He then detached himself as he activated his rocket thrusters. He flew over to where the Chancellor and his bodyguard were.
"He can't carry both of us. You go, sir," said the bodyguard to the Chancellor in a hurried tone.
He helped him onto the blue droid as he zoomed away. At that moment, the Zillo Beast brought his hand down to crush the Chancellor as he zoomed out at the last second and crushed the bodyguard. R2 approached the group as he slowed down as they began to run. 3P0 looked to let go as he quickly began to slide down.
"Oh no!" shouted the droid as he was falling fast.
"We aren't having much of an effort," said Aayla to her fellow Jedi Masters as they continued to run.
"Time to leave it is," said Master Yoda.
3P0 hit the ground as he stood up. He then turned around to see the Zillo Beast as it was looking at him.
"Oh no!" shouted the protocol droid once more as he began to run.
"Let's go!" shouted Celestia.
She and the others all approached the Zillo Beast's head as they flipped forward and landed near the group. They all ran with them as the monster was hot on their trail.
"Use the gas bombs," said the Chancellor through his transmitter to the pilots.
"Copy that," replied the pilot.
He then pushed a button as out shot two bombs. The beast saw them as it howled as they made contact.
"Bombs away!" shouted the pilot as more began to fire.
They hit the Zillo Beast with some making contact in its mouth as it was opened when it howled. The gas now began to take its toll on the beast. More bombs rained from above as a huge gas cloud was starting to form around the Zillo Beast. More of the bombs got into the creature's mouth as it inhaled the gas as some dramatic music was playing. The vital signs of the monster were dropping at a rapid pace as it stumbled.
The gas around it was starting to move towards the huge group running away. It was about to be on top of them as the Jedi Masters, along with Anakin and Storm all stopped and put their hands out. They were using the Force to create an area around them while also having the gas pas over them. The power all five were using was on full display as they managed to keep the others safe from the poisonous toxin.
From up above, Windu, Kenobi, and Luna saw the creature in its dying breaths as it shrieked. Safe to say, they did feel some sympathy for the monster. One last groan was heard as the Zillo Beast slumped to the ground and was sliding off the roof. It fell off and moaned weakly as within seconds it took one giant final breath and soon it stopped moving. The Jedi managed to get rid of the cloud as they all began to walk toward the edge.
They saw the scene down below. There laid the Zillo Beast as its tail served as the final sign of its life being laid to rest. The giant monster lay in a crack on the floor as spotlights shined down on it. And just like that, it was over. An animal, a beast, a creature.... slain. Soon... everything faded to black.
It was now the next morning. The body of the Zillo Beast was being carted away. The Chancellor was meeting with all the Jedi from the night before as well as Padme and Fluttershy.
"It's a tragedy that the Zillo Beast paid with its life for our mistakes," said Anakin.
"I will make certain that its sacrifice was not made in vain," said the Chancellor as he began to turn and walk.
The huge group also turned as they began to leave. As they were walking, Storm felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to see it was Fluttershy.
"What's up?"
"I just want to say thank you. For rescuing me and keeping me safe. Not to mention helping me to calm my nerves. I'm sorry if I felt afraid." said the girl looking away.
"Hey, no worries. That's what friends are for. We look out for one another. Besides, I meant what I said. You were brave last night. You didn't let your nervousness get the better of you. That's called courage. You looked fear in the eye and you didn't let it affect you." said Storm with a smile as Fluttershy looked at the Jedi Knight. She could see he was being genuine as she too smiled back. She wasted no time hugging him as the boy didn't bother to protest. If anything, he welcomed it.
"Besides, I wasn't going to let any harm come to someone who I consider a little sister," stated Storm as broke apart from the hug.
He continued to walk as he soon felt his hand being grabbed by Fluttershy. The girl was now happy as she held close to the boy who she now considered a big brother. Storm just merely patted her head as he promised that whenever Fluttershy was in harm, he would do all he can to protect her.
While the group was leaving in the opposite direction. The Chancellor wa walking in the other as he happened to spot Dr. Boll.
"Doctor, a word, if you please," said the Chancellor as he handed her a device. "Your new orders."
"What is this?" said Dr. Boll as she grabbed the device. She read what was on the tablet as she gasped. "You want me to... clone the beast?"
The Chancellor didn't say anything as he got on board a gunship as it zoomed away. Once he was out of distance, he then had an evil smile appear on his face.
Sometime later, Storm was in the Jedi Archives. He wasn't alone as he was standing at a table as sitting next to him was Twilight. The boy was telling the girl about his latest adventure so that she could write it down from his POV and add it to her report for Celestia. Also they had some pieces of paper as they looked to add a bit more info about the Zillo Beast so that it could be in the library for all to read.
"And with the discovery of such a rare species, unfortunately, the creature met its end on the Planet Coruscant," said Twilight as she finished reading what they wrote down.
"A bittersweet ending. To go out the way it did. I just wish... I just wish we could have done more. If the Chancellor hadn't been so determined in unlocking its secrets, the Zillo Beast might have found a way to continue its species. But as usual, the hubris of mankind tends to be our downfall. And in the process, we end up destroying more than we look to gain." said Storm.
"I get wanting to push the boundaries of science. But... sometimes, nature just can't be understood. And it's at times like that, that we simply let it be. And let it takes it course." said Twilight as she felt sympathy that the Zillo Beast had to die all because they were greedy in wanting to end this war quickly.
"Still, we have a goal. That's to end this war," stated the boy.
"Right, also..." Twilight got up from her chair as she hugged her partner.
Storm was caught off guard as he felt the princess wrapped her arms around his neck.
"I was worried... that... you..."
The boy could hear the sniffs from the princess as he sighed. He then brought his arms up to return the embrace from the girl as he rubbed her back. His nose could detect the princess' hair scent as it was of lilacs and lavender, but the bottom line was that it smell nicely. Eventually, the teen male closed his eyes as he enjoyed the embrace his partner was showing. For Twilight, the girl buried her head on her partner's shoulder as the thought of him not returning scared her a bit.
"Don't worry, Twilight... I'll always be here."
"And I... will always be here too. So long as you are," sniffed the girl.
The two teens just stood there, in each other's arms as it felt so nice. Eventually, the sun set on the planet as it was soon bathed in moonlight as darkness took over.
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With all due respect Palpatine, oh, I'm sorry, Darth Sidious, for a leader you're an idiot. Even Darth Marr wouldn't go that far to disrupt the balance of power.
Oh sure, now you wanna leave.
I wonder, did they even clone the beast?
Great chapter so far.
I always forget how dangerous that beast is.
Surprised that Twilight wasn't part of this. Otherwise she would've had a field day.
Oh well, one can dream.
Can't wait to see what else you have in store.
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Also, having Storm meet with Fluttershy for the first time. You can see the dynamic that will be involved with the pair for future chapters.
11214309
Definitely. Can't wait to see more.
If the Zillo Beast killed Chancellor he would have saved the Jedi Order and the Galaxy he would have been a hero and no one would have known about it
Wow, looking back at this episode after I saw this as a kid many years ago, I sure feel great anger with what Palpatine had caused to the Zillo Beast.
Especially when you remember who he really is, he pulled a really devious win-win deal there.
Too bad this went nowhere.
I don't recall anything about if it worked or not afterwards in the show. Like a dropped plot point.
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Sadly it didn't look like they ever did.