Ochi lunged with the dagger—just as Lando was about to squeeze off a well-aimed shot. Lando hissed in annoyance, lowering his weapon as Luke raised his lightsaber in defense.

But Luke didn’t need his help, or Komat’s. A Jedi and a lightsaber against, what, exactly?

Ochi didn’t stand a chance.

Luke’s blade hit Ochi’s dagger—and Ochi sliced parallel to the glowing green blade, sending it skittering off. If Luke was surprised that the dagger was apparently impervious to the power of his weapon, he didn’t show it, his face a still mask of concentration as he nimbly sidestepped and brought his lightsaber to bear again.

Ochi was fast, Lando had to give him that. Ochi spun to the side, once again allowing a glancing blow of the lightsaber blade on the dagger, using the strength of Luke’s own attack to push the weapon away.

That was when Ochi pulled the blaster from his belt with his free hand. He hopped backward, blaster up and ready to fire.

But not at Luke.

As the lightsaber swung in again, Ochi dodged it, angling the attack away with the dagger before firing two blaster shots at one of the spherical fuel tanks on the side of the staging area. Both bolts deflected off the heavy armor side of the tank.

Beside Lando, Komat now swung into action as she saw what Ochi was trying to do. She dropped into a crouch, her rifle now up and aimed.

Ochi shot first—and it was third time lucky. The fuel tank exploded, debris shooting into the sky as the heavy burning gas rolled out from within, a surging wave that would incinerate every living being caught in its path.

Lando ran, one hand grabbing Komat under the armpit and wrenching her to her feet. Risking a glance over his shoulder, Lando saw Luke’s lightsaber blade bobbing as he sprinted after them, the rolling inferno fast approaching behind. Of Ochi, there was no sign.


Star Wars Shadow of The Sith Chapter 54