Chapter 1: The Shadow's Reach

AN: Welcome Back! Saw this one got a big following fast so I got the first chapter out quickly for ya'll. Quick request from yours truly.

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On to the story!

Within the next few months, using every skill to his and his friends' disposal, the Sith had taken over almost all of the Underworld, leaving only the Hutts alone so as to not arouse suspicion. It also helped that his wealth of both the Sith Empire and the Republic were able to make him an EXTREMELY wealthy man in this era. And the accounts were so old and several investments were made that the interest and repayment made his wealth practically infinite. Though they knew just what he was capable of and didn't dare to act against him.

To everyone else though, he was nothing but a myth, a Shadow that corrupted all his eyes fell upon. What many didn't know was the Sith Lord's skills went beyond those of a Force-User, and he used them to his full advantage.

Having worked with the intelligence departments of both Sith and Republic alike, as well as working with and wiping out criminal organizations, he had more than enough experience in dealing with the watered down version he now faced.

But he hadn't just taken over the Criminal Underworld, but he had also created a legitimate business that was completely unconnected to the underworld so as not to arouse suspicion. In fact his company had become a great contender with many other legitimate businesses as well as well looked upon by Separatist, Republic, and even the neutral systems alike. He assisted in charities, rescue efforts, reconstruction, and many others which put him in good standing with people and politicians alike.

However, today's meeting was not for charity, but to seal a friendly relationship with the Hutts...by delivering one of their own.

"And you ensured that Ziro the Hutt was rescued without incident?" asked the Sith of the bounty hunter facing him: Cad Bane.

"Don't worry," the hunter said as he flicks his toothpick into the fire, "That slug has been returned to his family. How long he stays safe now depends on Jabba's mercy...now about my payment…"

The Sith Lord waved an armored hand, "Already in your account, remember you will always have a place of employment, I hope you enjoyed your payments from the Hutt as well."

The Bounty Hunter smiled and tipped his cap before leaving. Upon the door closing behind him, the Wrath's female companions appeared out of the shadows. It helped when one was once an assassin, and the other his apprentice.

"Well now that all of the Galactic Underworld is under your thumb, what now Master?" asked Jaesa of her teacher.

"Now…I make the Sith known once more to the Galaxy, not as an enemy of the Republic, but as its ally," said the Sith Lord, his helmet on the arm of his chair, his gauntleted hand resting upon it. His head however was hidden in shadow with the wolfish eyes of the Sith peering out of it.

"Won't that make you an ally of the Jedi as well?" asked Vette from her place on the couch.

Jaesa nodded at this point, "I don't know about you master but I am a little uncomfortable with befriending the Jedi." A small chuckle is heard from their master at their concern.

"My dear Vette and Jaesa, you act as if I haven't done this before," he said with amusement, raising his hood and marching out the door, the other two watching him leave, "Besides, if I take the first step into the light, then the Jedi will be forced to respond."

"It's high time the True Sith emerge from the Shadows. Let's see if I can drag out my cowardly counterparts…" he said with malice in his tone, "But first I need to take a quick trip, have the ship prepared to head for Mandalore." The two women walked behind him, interested in how things would unfold.

[Mandalore]

Minister Almec was silent for a moment as he pondered the guest who was coming to see him. The man was a myth to many, and only whispers gave evidence to his existence. And this man was now coming to them...personally.

He waited in the Mandalore throne room, pacing in aggravation before the doors finally opened. At the entrance stood a tall man, around two meters in height, with black robes adorning his form. Were it not for reputation, he would suspect the man a Jedi.

Two women, a blue twi-lek and a brunette human walked behind the man, both of whom, despite one wearing masks and the other a hood, held a deadly presence about them. No matter the case, this man who towered over even the mightiest Mandalorian warrior was not one to be trifled with.

"Prime Minister Almec," the deep voice spoke, a dark mechanical gruffness added to mask his true voice. Swallowing his saliva to cure his dry throat he coughed before speaking.

"Welcome Mr…" he then paused realizing that he had not known the man's name. But the shadowy monolith answered the unspoken question.

"Damocles, I understand that you wished to discuss business for the sake of Mandalore," the man stated without query.

"Ahem, yes sir," Almec responded, "With our Duchess, battling both the Death Watch and our trade contracts being strangled by the war, I fear for our people's livelihoods."

In perhaps the most surprising turn of events...the hooded being simply nodded.

"And what is it that your people need?" Damocles asked. Almec had expected more pushback from the "Ruler of the Underworld."

"Well...food, medical supplies, and fuel," he listed off, "The basic necessities."

"Very well," was all he said before turning away to leave, "Mandalore shall have the aid of the Shadow Collective. Your people shall want for nothing."

"But know this," the man stopped, forcing Almec to look at the man's back, "Take advantage of my generosity, and turn to corruption, you will face my wrath."

With his heart skipping in fear, he was drawn from those thoughts as the hooded woman held up a data pad.

"Here are the terms and agreements for aid from the Shadow Collective," the woman said coldly, "Upon receiving acceptance, our aid will come in the next rotation. Be certain that non one takes advantage of our generosity toward your people."

The Twi-lek spoke as her counterpart left after their master, "Oh, and do not mention our master's name...or you will be dead faster than you can say 'poo doo!'"

Surprised by the unprofessional and jovial demeanor, he was stunned when she patted his cheek before skipping away.

"Curious…" was all he could say.

[Maelstrom Industries Republic Building]

Months passed by without incident, the war continued and despite their best efforts, no luck came their way in finding out more regarding the machinations of the Separatists.

And so the negotiator Obi-wan Kenobi as well as Jedi Knights Serra Keto and Anakin Skywalker along with his apprentice Ahsoka Tano were sent to a prestigious company that had come up in the last few months and supposedly the owner of the facility was just barely an adult at the age of 19. The Jedi now stepped off the LAAT with a few troopers standing guard while standing before them was the proof of the rumor.

As they stepped off the platform, they noticed a few unique troops standing guard at the entrance. Of course none of the troops themselves and their master knew that these armors were nearly identical to the Sith's Imperial Commandos from his era.

And just as deadly.

But the Jedi paid them no mind as they simply kept their post and did not halt them from meeting their employer.

He was tall, around six and a half feet tall, but his figure was lean yet strong. He wore a black suit with a red silk shirt. His hair was quite unruly and with the bluest eyes any had seen. He also had what appeared to be black scar marks, three on each cheek which gave him the appearance of a warrior and with his grinned he appeared bestial.

The two women blushed upon seeing the young yet handsome CEO but he when he spoke it was that of a mature man. "Welcome my friends, I must say it is truly an honor to meet the Jedi, let alone those who are considered heroes of the Republic," the Jedi could feel the sincerity in his words and felt a bit of pride in the praise as he bowed, "I am Madara Thrawmith, CEO of Maelstrom Industries."

"Thank you for accepting to meet us Mr-," Obi-wan began, but Thrawmith raised a hand.

"Please, simply Madara, formalities aren't exactly a preference of mine, makes me feel too estranged to the people I'm talking to," he admitted to the Jedi, they gained a little more respect for him upon hearing that.

"Heh, I like this guy," Anakin admitted with a smirk, receiving a smirk in return.

"I am honored General Skywalker," Madara said, still smiling, it was then that a group of five individuals appeared from inside the building.

"But come, let us discuss what I can do for the Heroes of the Republic," the introductions Madara escorted them all inside.

As they did, a blue and gold protocol droid appeared before them, "Jovial Greeting: Welcome to Maelstrom Industries! Can I interest any of you in refreshments?"

Anakin, who in his past time was a tech person, eyed the droid, it was unusual to see a droid he didn't recognize. And yet he, like the others, accepted a beverage with a smile.

Not realizing it was an HK assassin droid disguised as a protocol droid.

"So, what can I do for you, my friends?" asked the young CEO as he sat his Jedi guests. The Jedi sipped their drinks, unaware of what exactly it was, but it was rather delicious.

"We are here because we heard that you have a professional security force, and that it includes investigating the criminal underworld. We were wondering if perhaps you could help us with the possibility of evidence of Banking Clan plotting with the Separatists," Kenobi told them. But it was then that they saw the businessman that was the eighteen year old man.

"You are indeed correct, however you should be aware that I am unable to simply give you information due to my business being neutral in this war…" he told the Jedi who looked down in frustration.

"Along with my company's energy, medical, and other humanitarian services, my security branch allows protection of the innocent and weak, while providing the strong a chance for honorable employment," Madara answered...

"That being said…" they looked up, "I despise traitors…which is exactly what Senator Clovis is, along with the entire Banking Clan, and of course the Trade Federation."

"How can you be so certain?" asked Serra, only for their host to smile softly.

"I have my methods, I may not look it but I have much more experience than someone of our age," he said standing, Serra and Ahsoka were surprised by the amount of confidence that dripped from his voice.

Before tossing a data disc to Skywalker, "This is the string you can pull. Continue to pull and you may very well bring all of them to their knees."

"Just make sure that the traitor is dealt with, now if you'll excuse me I must handle something, feel free to explore the building if you have time," he told them as they too stood, saying their thanks before departing, though none saw the gold and crimson glint that went in his eyes.

He knew that they would succeed, and it would allow him to gain their trust. So that when the time came, he would be trusted as a man, before they feared him...as a Sith.

[Months Later]

Anakin and Ahsoka had been following another lead that Mr. Thrawmith had left them. After getting the black market dealer, Ahsoka left to gain help to find her lightsaber. After several hours of hunting with the help of the Elder Jedi Master Senube, they finally caught up to the culprit. However the thief took two hostages which forced the Jedi to halt in her tracks.

"I'll kill them I swear!" the thief shouted, she would have done it too if not for a familiar face to dash at her. Madara, of all people dashed forward and tackled the thief off the woman and child.

"Run!" he cried out just as he took a powerful kick to the face which knocked him into the train wall. But that moment was all the Jedi needed to get in close and disarm the woman. Upon the security forces taking the thief away, Ahsoka looked to their ally who was slowly coming out of unconsciousness.

"Oh! Ahsoka! Great to see you again!" he said, completely laid back as though he hadn't just run toward an ignited lightsaber. Rather he simply smiled as he consoles the mother and child with genuine kindness.

Ahsoka could not help but smile at seeing the kindness and heroic man only a few years older than herself.

He had the bravery of a Jedi, and a kind soul to match. Yet she had not seen the menacing truth behind him

[Naruto OST: Pain]

Several months later, Madara was at his penthouse chamber atop his building on Coruscant, he was out on his balcony meditating.

Or at least he was trying.

All of his companions knew…he was trying to overcome the truth that his friends back home, a place not even they knew the location of….were all ash now. Part of him said "Good Riddance!" because of how he was treated despite his best efforts to fight for them.

The other part of him saw the good times with them…but only pain came because of how they parted…but he would never know the truth now as they were now long gone. It was turmoil for the disguised Sith, he had dreamed of finding his home, returning as a conquering hero with the full might of the Dark Side at his call.

Standing form his meditative position, he pressed a hidden button which revealed the case containing his armor. He simply stood there, looking upon each and every scrape, cut, and scorch mark inflicted upon the Eradicator Class Armor of the Wrath.

And the Mandalorian Stalker helmet he had been gifted as a sign of respect and leadership, the black metal with Sith etchings and the visor which had a setting to emit a menacing crimson glow.

It felt good wearing the armor again when he gained his new allies…the Mandalorian Death Watch.

[Flashback]

Pre Vizla paced inside his home on their new hidden base, it was a frozen word, habitable but only by those who had innate adaptability to cold. Hence why it was perfect for Mandalorians. But right now he had to think about what to do, his attempts to kill Satine were short lived and he now was abandoned by Count Dooku. Having been scarred by the count he now faced the issue of dealing with Mandalore alone.

And even as Mandalore was falling to corruption...he felt helpless to protect his people.

"So…here is where you have found respite," said a familiar dark voice, Vizla turned to see a man clad in armor, helm, and hooded robe sitting in his chair like he ran the place. How had he gotten in without announcing his presence? Being a height of six and a half feet tall, as well as being well built should make it hard to move even somewhat quietly…but he had been silent.

Needless to say, Vizla's pistol and black lightsaber were out in a heartbeat, only for both weapons flew out of his hands with a wave of this intruder's own.

"Violence is not needed here," he said, releasing a calming aura into the room, lowering the Mandalorian's guard, "I merely am here with a proposal."

Vizla now knew he was powerless, only few figures could put him in such a state. To his knowledge there was one, if there was another then he deeply was in trouble.

"What do you want?" he asked angrily, "One word and I can have my whole army here." All he received at first was a chuckle. He then stood.

"Come with me," he stood and pulled open the tent drape to allow Vizla to walk through. It was then he saw a chilling sight. Every one of his men and women were on their knees as if to a figure of superiority, though he could see that their muscles were all of them were trying to fight it and stand.

It was then that Vizla realized his situation, this armored warrior was filling his being with dread as he realized the power level of the man. Looking further he noticed that other Mandalorians were on their feet with weapons out at his men…though they had crimson and black armor in comparison to his blue and grey members.

"Like my warriors? They are my Defilers, in every sense of the word," the Shadow stated as said Defilers chuckled evilly at the statement. In truth the men's private lives were their own, but when they donned the armor, they were completely different men, "They are the ultimate warriors, saboteurs and corrupters, trained not only in the ways of Mandalore, but trained by myself as well. They are more than capable of slaying Jedi…I could train you and your men easily."

Vizla looked over at the unknown figure in shock, this man who held he and his men in their hands, "What's the catch?" to this the man smiled.

"Simple really, the Death Watch is under MY command, my Defilers join as Death Watch Shock Troops and will train you and your men and women in their skills. You gain extra funding from my organization. You are my assassins, my bounty hunters. But none will know, to the galaxy's knowledge you will be the face of the Death Watch," the hooded and armored figure answered.

Vizla thought about it, it wasn't a bad deal, he would gain funding, support in retaking Mandalore. But he would have to surrender control to this unknown man. He didn't like serving others.

"And if I refuse?" Vizla asked, a little bit of defiance in his voice. The hooded figure finally looked at him.

"Then I will challenge you to a trial by combat, will cut you down right here in front of your woman and they will be honor-bound to serve me," the same tone in his voice, the tone that said "I am in complete control, for I am an adult amongst children."

Nevertheless the threat was there, as all of the Defilers' helmeted visages looked upon Vizla. Seeing the situation was fair yet without choice, he conceded.

"Very well, we are at your service...to whom am I pledging loyalty?" asked Vizla, the other Mandalorians felt the force on their bodies removed and they were helped up by the Defilers, as if they had been brothers in arms all along, not far off since they were all sons and daughters of Mandalore. All looking upon the hooded and armored figure they waited, the moment that his name was said they all felt their blood freeze as they now knew who they were dealing with.

"I've gone by many names, but you may call me...Darth Damocles."

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