Saga - PT Star Wars Episode II: A Galaxy Divided (Prequel AU)

Update: With Episode I completed, I decided to continue my alternate PT with Episode II: A Galaxy Divided. This episode will basically focus on The Clone Wars. The events in this story occur 5 years after Episode I: Rise of The Skywalker. Enjoy.

UPDATE 2: May 4th, COMPLETED

For those who haven't read Episode I, here is the link: http://boards.theforce.net/threads/star-wars-episode-i-rise-of-the-skywalker-prequel-au.50048083/

There is also a link to it in my sig.

Star Wars Episode II: A Galaxy Divided
25 Years Before A New Hope
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.....

Opening Crawl:

"The galaxy at war! As the Galactic Republic and the Union battle over the ideas of cloning, President Palpatine has continued to build up the military force.

Five years of brutal conflict in the Mid-Rim has taken its toll on the Republic. Several senators begin to doubt Palpatine's position of power. Despite this, the Republic is winning the war.

After three months of siege, the Republic has been able to reach the planet of Omoa. Two Jedi Knights have been sent to lead a Republic invasion, and move one step closer to winning The Clone Wars...."

Chapter 1: The Invasion Begins

In the orbit of Omoa, Republic Star Destroyers had arrived. After brutal sieges for five years, the Republic had managed to sieze the opportunity for invading a major Union world. On the Star Destroyer, The Montreal, a young man, wearing a black suit, and cape, looked out the window, staring at the bluish-green planet below. The man had a lightsaber clipped to the right side of his belt, and his blond hair was slightly longer than before. Anakin Skywalker, now 23-years old, was a hero and veteran of The Clone Wars and the Jedi. He had gained the title of Jedi Knight when he rescued President Palpatine from a Union assassination on Coruscant, two years before. Admiral Tarkin approached the Jedi Knight. "Commander Skywalker." Anakin turned around. "Yes, Admiral?" "The Republic is ready to invade Omoa." Anakin nodded. "Thank you, Admiral." Anakin walked towards Obi-Wan's quarters.
Obi-Wan was sitting in his bed, analyzing a hologram of Omoa's key strategic points. He too wore a black outfit, with a brown cape. His beard was thicker, and his hair was cropped shorter. Anakin walked in. "Master, we arrived. The Republic is ready to land our troops." Obi-Wan smiled. "Then, let's get to work. Our starfighters are in the hangar. Get fueled up, we leave at 0300." "Yes, Master."

Anakin and Obi-Wan had bonded a lot over the course of the war. The Union was on the defense, and had a tactic of luring Republic forces to a clone labor camp, only to have the clones strapped with explosive devices. The Jedi had grown cautious during the war. Over 67 Jedi Knights had been killed in the war. The most Jedi that had died in a single conflict since the Ancient Republic Unification Conflict. As Anakin entered the hangar, he saw white-armored Republic soldiers, wearing new Republic-issued helmets. The Republic Army and Marine Corps had been absorbed into Palpatine's Stormtrooper Corps, named after the Jantek Security Forces from five years ago. Palpatine was impressed with their bravery during the Battle of Aquilae, and gave the chance for Jantek stormtroopers to join his new Republic armada.
Anakin saw his girlfriend, Arcadia Speedstarr, working on her TIE Fighter. "Hello, beautiful." Anakin gave a cocky smirk, and Arcadia pretended not to notice. "Another battle, huh?" Anakin sighed. "Yeah, another siege. But this a major Union world. If we capture it, we can end this war quickly." Arcadia put down her wrench. "And then what?" Anakin looked confused. "We will figure something out, I promise. I have a duty to the Jedi Order to fulfill and you serve the Republic..." Arcadia was slightly disappointed in Anakin's words. "I know, and I would never ask you to leave the Jedi, but I've been thinking of leaving the military. Settling down, and I worry about you. You are celebrated as one of the most brave Jedi, and that worries me." Anakin caressed her arm. "I'll be alright, Arcadia. We can think of the future once this war is won. I promise." She smiled. "Alright." They kissed. Arcadia jumped in her ship and looked at Anakin. "May the Force be with you, Commander." She gave him a wink, and took off. Several TIE Fighters followed her out.

Stormtroopers ran to their transports, the troops all ready to make a landing. Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker jumped in their starfighters. "Ready for another glorious victory, Master?" Obi-Wan laughed. "If we make it out without even being shot at once, THEN we can call it glorious, Anakin." The two took off with the Republic force, ready to face whatever the Union had waiting for them.

 

Chapter 2: Space Battle of Omoa

On the glass world of Omoa, a city, completely made of clear, energy-shielded glass buildings, lies in wait. Senator Byo, the Union leader and representative of the planet, has organized the Omoan Defense Force to battle the Republic. The Omoan Volunteer Militia, made up of civilians eager to protect their homes, also assist. Several Union mercenaries from other planets were also present. They had fortified the city with laser guns and a shield beam. The clones, made up of Omoan human settlers who were kidnapped, and after the cloning process, executed, lied in a bunker laced with explosives if the Republic military got near it. Senator Byo, looked at his soldiers. "The Republic has arrived. We may not be enough to win this battle, but we will be enough to make them remember it! Do your duty to your home. May the Union live on!"

Small A-Wing ships began to exit Omoa's atmosphere. Anakin noticed them on his ship's scanner. "Master, two dozen ships leaving the planet. Looks like the Omoan Defense Force ships." Obi-Wan acknowledged. " Oh great. I thought they were gonna surrender before we landed on the planet. Commander Speedstarr, have your Squadron make an opening for our transports. Commander Skywalker and I will find a way on the ground."

Arcadia flying her TIE fighter, was under the newly formed Firebird Squadron. She was a veteran of several battles under Tarkin's command. Tarkin admired her skills over the years, and she became a prime example of what a pilot should be. "Roger that, General Kenobi. Firebird Squadron, all on me. We will flank the ODF ships to make way for our troop transports."

Firebird Squadron moved in, the Omoan A-Wing ships firing. One of Firebird's youngest recruits, Jak Nienen, was under heavy cannon fire. "I can't shake them!!" Nienen's ship was hit by a red blast that caused his TIE to explode. Arcadia moved up behind the Omoan, and began firing. The Omoan ship was hit by Arcadia's combat maneuver to lock onto a ship and trace it's next movement using prediction route technology. The Omoan's A-Wing exploded into a ball of fire. "Got you." Her experiences in the war had made her enjoy the adrenaline rush of combat.

As Anakin and Obi-Wan fought off several A-Wings, Obi-Wan realized his ships shields were broken. "Blast! Something always goes wrong when it can only go right. Anakin! I don't think I'll make it. My shields are malfunctioning!" "I'll be right there, Master. I'm a little busy with some amatuers at the moment." Anakin saw two A-Wings charging him. Anakin moved his control sticks and began spinning, dodging the laser fire. He then flipped his missile launchers and when the A-Wings passed him, pulled his controls to make the starfighter do a flip and automatically lock onto his enemies. He pressed the fire button, and what looked liked the exact same time, the two A-Wings blew into debris.

Anakin moved back to Obi-Wan who had a ship firing on his tail. Obi-Wan launched the equipment from the back of the ship to create a distraction, blinding the Omoan pilot. Obi-Wan pulled the reverse thruster, and knocked his left wing into the glass cockpit of the A-Wing. The pilot was immediately sucked out of his ship. Obi-Wan was cocky at his tactic. "Well, looks like I'm still full of surprises." Before he could bask in his piloting abilities, he saw an A-Wing come at him from his right. He had no time to turn around before a large cannon blast was fired at him. Obi-Wan believed he was about to bite the dust, when red laser fire diffused the blast, disintegrating the cannon blast. The A-Wing was struck by the lasers, and was destroyed. Obi-Wan recognized Anakin's ship. "Always getting yourself into trouble, eh, Obi-Wan? Obi-Wan sighed. "Well thank you for the assist but I could've used your help awhile ago." Anakin laughed. "Never appreciate what I do." The two began to head towards Omoan's surface.

 

Chapter 3: The High Ground

Anakin and Obi-Wan's ships landed on the floating platforms, surrounding energy towers. The platforms were used by Omoan clones, and military, to extract the energy from towers, or protect them from local anarchists. Several Republic transports landed too. As the doors opened, dozens of stormtroopers in white armor ran out. "Move! Move! Move!" The soldiers set bombs on the energy tower. With the tower obliterated, the Omoans lose a major supply of resource on the planet. The soldiers and the Jedi ran down the tower as it detonated, causing a massive explosion. They all made it out at the bottom of the tower as it started collapsing. Obi-Wan nodded at one of the stormtrooper captains. "Good work, Captain." "Thank you, General."

Obi-Wan, Anakin and the stormtroopers made it into the city. They saw an Omoan energy cannon firing at landing Republic transports. Obi-Wan looked at Anakin. "Anakin, you know what we have to do." Anakin nodded. The two Jedi Knights used the Force to lift up the cannon, their strength and focus letting them rip the cannon off its pedestal. As they were holding up the, at least, 1,500 pound cannon in the air, the other stormtroopers were amazed. One of them noticed several Union troopers in a building, setting up a sniper team. "Jedi! To your right!" The two Jedi flung the cannon into the building, the cannon completely shattering the entire structure. Obi-Wan looked at Anakin with slight ridicule. "Was it really necessary to guide the cannon at that building for only several snipers?" Anakin shrugged. "What? Collateral damage. It's bound to happen in battle." Obi-Wan sighed and walked off.

Senator Byo saw the structure collapse half a mile away. "The Republic. They're here." One Omoan trooper, wearing a shiny silver helmet, goggles and an orange trenchcoat, asked "Should we proceed to engage?" Byo gave him a stern look. "Uh, yes, sir. Let's go men!"

Anakin and Obi-Wan saw Union troops coming down the glass architectural streets. "Looks like they saw the building collapse." Obi-Wan grunted, "You think?! Troopers, prepare to engage!!" The stormtroopers began open firing on the Omoan forces. The firefight became a dizzy clutter of laser fire and screams, as soldiers from both sides fell. Anakin charged several Union troopers cutting them down. One tried to jump on Anakin, but Anakin head-butted him, and impaled the Omoan through the chest. Obi-Wan saw an Omoan, wearing a brown trenchcoat, pale-wrinkled skin, and green-eyed, throw a detonator at him. He used the Force to stop the detonator in mid air, then threw it back. The Omoan trooper perished. As the two Jedi began to fight their way through, Arcadia and Firebird Squadron entered the planet's atmosphere. "Looks like you boys could use some help." She dropped plasma bombs on several Omoan positions, and then continued to engage Omoan A-Wings. "Thanks, Arcadia!" Anakin had a large grin on his face. Obi-Wan had an amused look. "I can see why you like that woman."
As Omoan forces were losing ground, Senator Byo, observing the battle with binoculars, was furious. "Quick! To the Omoan Hall. We will make our last stand there!"

The stormtroopers moved into the glass buildings, setting up positions. The glass was reinforced with energy particles, so it wouldn't shatter unless a massive object, or blast, hit it.
Anakin and Obi-Wan moved with the remaining forces to the Hall building. The Hall Building was slightly different. It was made of concrete but was also running on energy. Blasting it down was not option. Obi-Wan looked at Anakin. "After you."
The Union soldiers were held up inside, Senator Byo hiding in a corner. As the doors exploded, dozens of stormtroopers ran in. The firefight continued. Obi-Wan charged in with his blue lightsaber, slicing an Omoan soldier diagonally between his right thigh and left shoulder. Anakin decapitated an Omoan who was aiming at a stormtrooper. The Jedi and Republic troops took out all resistance. Senator Byo was cowering under a desk. "I surrender! I surrender!" Obi-Wan pulled him out so a stormtrooper could cuff him. Anakin got a transmission. "This is Commander Speedstarr. The Omoan Air Defense Force has been defeated." Anakin responded. "Good job, Arcadia. We have captured Senator Byo. The Union has took a major blow."

As the TIE fighters flew back to the Star Destroyers in orbit, Anakin and Obi-Wan had AED (Anti-Explosive Diffusion) Troopers dismantle the explosives around the clone bunker. Anakin used the Force to unlock the door, and dozens of clones, human males and females, came running out. "We're free!!!"

The day was won.

 

God damn, Del. Who are you, Stephen King?

You're like:



with your Prequel AUs.

*begins binge reading the first installment*

brb

 

I'm trying to beat a record who can finish an entire PT AU in less than a few months I guess.

 

Superb action

 

Chapter 4: Games and Motives

On Yavin IV, Anakin and Obi-Wan landed their ships. Jedi Master Lok Dantos and Qia Koolo greeted them. "Master Kenobi, Skywalker, good work on Omoan. You two have made winning this war much easier." "Thank you, Master Dantos. Tarkin's fleet is moving to Femorran. The Union are sieging there too." Dantos nodded. "Well, we need you to go to Alderaan. King Organa is worried about Union threats to invade his planet for resources. We believe the Bakuran Socialist League is send their militia there soon." Anakin interrupted. "Wait! What did you mean "you?" I'm not going?" Lok shook his head. "No. You are headed to Coruscant. President Palpatine has requested you" Anakin was curious. "What for?"
"Routine guard duty."
"Doesn't he have bodyguards for that?"
"Yes. But Palpatine has requested several Jedi in the last few years due to war time. Gives him extra-protection, as he says." Anakin was frustrated but relented. "Well..he is a friend. Fine." As the two Jedi Masters walked off, Anakin turned to face Obi-Wan. "Why do I get stuck with boring assignments?" Obi-Wan teased him. "Well when your military strategies have you become a General, then we can talk." Anakin wasn't laughing. He enjoyed combat, and it gave him the sense of adventure he longed for after leaving Gardia. Obi-Wan put his hand on Anakin's shoulder. "It's just one mission, Anakin. You'll return to the frontlines in no time." Anakin smiled. Obi-Wan smiled back. "May the Force be with you, Anakin." "May the Force be with you, Master."

Obi-Wan jumped in his ship, and took off. For the first time in years, Anakin felt a sense of loneliness.

Lok and Qia walked into Yoda's chambers. Yoda was meditating. "Sorry to interrupt, Master Yoda. Kenobi is headed to Alderaan and Skywalker to Coruscant." Yoda's eyes opened. "Thank you, Master Koolo. Dismissed, you are." Qia nodded and walked out. Lok Dantos and Yoda were alone. "Master Yoda..I think we need to keep a closer eye on Anakin." Yoda agreed. "Palpatine has been requesting for him for months. Suspicious, this all seems." Lok agreed. "Is he truly the Skywalker? I sense too much anger in him." Yoda pondered. "Too early to tell, it is. But we must watch the boy, tempted by the dark side, he can be." Lok nodded.

On Coruscant, Palpatine watched the sun fall on the city planet. He sat in his office chair, smiling at the beauty of it. How fitting, he thought. Twilight will reach this Republic soon. Palpatine sensed a presence lurking in the shadows. He turned to face his red robed guards. "Guards. You are dismissed this evening." The two armored red guards walked out. Palpatine turned back to the window. "You may reveal yourself, my apprentice." From the shadows, Darth Vindis, with his metallic mask, and black robes, appeared. "My Lord, the Clone Wars are almost at an end. I've been lurking these past fives years, picking off Jedi in battles, covertly assisting which ever side you wanted to win. When will we reveal ourselves?" Palpatine smiled. "Soon, Lord Vindis. Soon. It is still too early. But, I do have a mission for you. I have hired a group of bounty hunters to assist you in this operation. Go to the planet of Gardia. I will give you your orders once you have arrived and rendezvous with the hunters." Vindis bowed. "Yes, my master."

 

Chapter 5: The Devil At Work

The next day, Palpatine gave a speech to the Senate. "The Republic victory at Omoa has helped us get closer to winning this war. The Cloning Rights Union is on its knees. Soon, we will bring back these rogue worlds into Republic control, and eliminate their disgusting cloning practices!" The Senate cheered.

Meanwhile, a Jedi starship landed. Anakin Skywalker walked out of the ship, observing the Coruscant scenery that grew to become one of his favorite planets. He enjoyed the clutter of traffic, the different species, and the luxurious buildings of the upper-class Republic citizens.

Anakin walked into Palpatine's office, seeing the president watching the skyline. He knew Palpatine had just returned from a meeting in the Senate. Palpatine swiveled the chair around. "Oh, hello there, Anakin. How pleasant it is to see you again." Anakin bowed. "Hello, sir. It is very nice to see you too." "I read the reports on Omoa. Good work. You truly showed your bravery there." Anakin smiled. "Thank you, sir. It has been an honor to serve under your guidance." Palpatine got up from his chair and put his hand on Anakin's shoulder. "I apologize about asking you to come here. I know you would prefer to be with General Kenobi on Alderaan." Anakin hesitated for a second. "Well..uh..." Palpatine gave a snicker. "No, no, I understand. This is important to you. To prove yourself as a Jedi." Anakin slowly nodded in agreement. "Tell me, Anakin, do you believe you have proved yourself worthy as a Jedi? Do you ever wish for...more?" Anakin thought about it. "Sometimes, I guess. I do feel the Jedi don't fully embrace me." Palpatine was curious. "And why is that?" Anakin sighed. "They feel I'm too hot-headed. And there's too much pressure on me. They believe I'm supposed to be part of some great ancient warrior group, but they never fully trust me. Obi-Wan is always with me in any mission outside of the Core Worlds." Palpatine nodded. "Sounds like they always want to keep an eye on you." He sensed Anakin's frustration. "Don't get me wrong, I'm truly greatful to be with Obi-Wan. He's my friend and mentor. It's just....I wish I can prove myself without them.."
"Always watching your next move." Palpatine gave Anakin a look that made Anakin feel like he cared about his well-being.
Anakin continued. "Yes."
Palpatine smiled. "Well, Anakin. I must say, I was a bit dishonest with the Jedi Order. I didn't ask you to come here to guard me. I asked you here because I know I can trust you." Anakin was curious. "Didn't you say your homeworld was Gardia? Republic intelligence has told me several Union mercenaries have headed there to look for any remaining resources left behind from the Jantek-Suns of Freedom crisis." Anakin's eyes widened. "I'd like you to go there and investigate this matter, if you would like." Anakin nodded. "Of course. Thank you, sir! I won't let you down." Palpatine warmly smiled. "No, I know you won't."

 

Chapter 6: Operation: FALLEN

Darth Vindis's ship landed on the green plains of Gardia. Vindis was alone. He was angry at the loss of the Sith militia on Aquilae. A group of dark side worshipping cultists was not easy to come by these days. Still, his master was right. With them dead, their tracks were covered. The only down side was he had to be the one to serve his master's goals. Vindis assumed Palpatine never forgave him for the loss of the Sith troops...

Vindis entered the village of Iqa. His master had sent him the coordinates. He walked to the entrance of a closed cantina. The village was quiet. Just farmers and tradespeople walking around. He noticed six sentient beings moving towards him from an alley across the cantina. Those must be the bounty hunters, Vindis thought. "Introduce yourselves," Vindis announced. The first bounty hunter was helmeted, holding a sniper. "They call me Boushh. Former Republic Special Forces before this Clone War started. Fought in the Border Disputes on Yawau Minor" The next bounty hunter stepped foward, a female Torguta. "Jayha K'es. Former pirate in the Outer Rim. Killed Pirate leader, Goss Champin." The next one, a big Regellian stepped forward. "Homa Exec. Served the Regellian Royal Militia." The next bounty hunter was a droid. "2-LOM. Re-programmed translation droid into assassin by the Hutt Clan." The next bounty hunter was a Trandoshan. "I'm Slith. Hunter since birth. Killed my first Wookiee at three years old." Vindis noticed the next bounty hunter was wearing armor similar to the original stormtroopers from Jantek. Except it was painted green and brown. "And who are you?" The bounty hunter stepped forward. "Boba Fett. Former Jantek stormtrooper during the Jantek-TSF Crisis." Vindis smiled under his mask. How ironic that a soldier that used to serve the man I killed is now working with me?

"I'm Lord Vindis. My boss has sent me to assist you hunters." Vindis tossed a small pad on the ground. The hologram of a hooded Palpatine appeared. "You are all being hired for a job. I want you to raid the Eloo Kirat spaceport village. I want no survivors. Kill everyone. Especially Kane and Nora Lars." The hologram faded out. Boba was immediately uncomfortable. He had some dirty jobs before since he retired, but nothing like this. He wasn't particularly comfortable with serving under Palpatine after the disbanding of Jantek. Given the choice, he left Republic service, and used his skills to become a bounty hunter. Plus, these new stormtroopers were nothing like the original.

He pulled out his blaster and shot 2-LOM. The droid's head fried, and fell apart. All the bounty hunters raised there blasters at Fett. "I'm no cold-blooded murderer. This is not what I had in mind." Darth Vindis ignited his red saber. The surrounding civilians panicked and ran. "Do you believe you can stop us?" Boba was sweating under his helmet. He had no way of surviving this. Boba pulled out smoke pellets and ignited them. The Sith and hunters began coughing as the clouded gas blinded them. When the smoke cleared, Boba was gone. Darth Vindis made a disappointed clicking sound. "Shame. Two hunters gone and we haven't even begun our mission.. Alright team, let's move out."

The team entered the village. They immediately shot and killed a group of bystanders in the local market, causing a mass panic. Boushh and Slith tossed fire bombs in local shops, Jayha and Homa ransacked a shop, Jayha shooting the shopkeeper in the head. Vindis indiscriminately cut his way through anything that moved....

Owen Lars, now 24, was asleep. He heard the commotion and looked out the window to see gunmen blasting their way through the village. He ran downstairs to grab a family rifle. Kane was down their too. "Owen! Get to cover! I put a barricade on the door. If they get through, blast them!" Owen nodded. "Where's mom?"
"She's covering the dining area door. Don't worry, she's armed." Owen nodded and set his sights on the door with his father at the side. He heard panics, and laser fire...and then....silence. Beyond the scorching sound of flames burning, the screams and gunfire stopped. Nora came from the dining area and plopped down next to her husband and son. "If we're gonna die, we're gonna die as a family," she said. She set her pistol on the door. The door busted, and the three family members opened fire. Nora shot Homa in the chest, but the blast wasn't enough to kill him. He fell down, slightly stunned. Owen opened fire on Slith, and got a round in his shoulder. Vindis ignited his blade and used the Force to throw Owen back into a shelf, knocking the entire structure on him. "OWEN!" Kane pulled out a hunting knife and charged the Sith Lord. Vindis immediately disarmed him, and grabbed him by the neck, choking him. Nora was hit by Jayha's rifle, knocking her to the floor. "Remember bounty hunters," Vindis said. "A job is a job."

 

Chapter 7: Obi-Wan Arrives on Alderaan

Obi-Wan arrived in the city of Aldera, walking towards the palace. Alderaan was a planet full of glaciers, and green grassy plains, mixed with sophisticated architecture, and a proud royal lineage. Alderaan, however, was a neutral system. They did supply the Galactic Republic with weapons, and even uniforms before the creation of the Stormtrooper Corps, but they had their own independent government. The planet was ruled by King Bail Organa, a loyal friend of President Ryasa, before the president was assassinated five years before. Obi-Wan approached the palace, seeing Royal Security Guards all on the perimeter. The guards let him through immediately. Obi-Wan's black Jedi Knight uniform gave him a pass. Obi-Wan waited in the red hall of the palace. There were paintings of the country-side all around. Obi-Wan was stroking his beard in deep thought. He was sent to advise King Organa in case the rumored Union invasion was true. Something didn't seem right though, he sensed.

Bail walked out, a man with black hair, and grey hairs on the temples. He wore a cape and satchel, decorated with Alderaanian symbols. Obi-Wan gave a bow out of respect. "Why, it's a pleasure to meet you, Jedi Master..." "Obi-Wan Kenobi." Bail gave a smile. He radiated a warmth that Obi-Wan admired. He had met many government leaders who were quite the opposite of that in his time as a Jedi...
"My men are on high alert for any Union attack."
"Good. Republic reinforcements are on stand-by just in case." Obi-Wan noticed a man with a golden satchel, red hair, and cold blue eyes standing next to Bail. Bail gave a brief laugh. "Oh pardon me, Master Kenobi. This is Aldera minister, Arno Betten. The man bowed. Obi-Wan nodded. Arno spoke. "Well, it's good to hear the Jedi still exist. They were always considered legends when I was growing up..." Obi-Wan noticed the slight condescending tone. "Oh believe me, we aren't going anywhere any time soon..."
"Hm. We'll see, hopefully not." There was a slight smirk on Arno's face. Bail noticed the tension. "Please, gentlemen, now is not the time for such ideleogical trifling. There may be a war on Alderaan's doorstep, and we need to be ready for such an attack." Obi-Wan nodded. "I agree." Bail smiled again. "Please, Obi-Wan. Come with us for dinner. We will discuss more of a Republic-Alderaan defense strategy."

 

Chapter 8: Dinner Table Discussion

Obi-Wan, Bail, and Arno, all walked into a huge dining room, with a long table. There was all different types of food: blue milk, Dewback tea, Dewback ribs, etc. Obi-Wan took a seat. Bail sat across from him, with Arno sitting on Bail's right. Bail began to speak. "So, I have seen what President Palpatine has done to militarize the Republic. Can't say I agree, but in these dire times, it's understandable." Obi-Wan looked up from his platter. "The Jedi Order isn't particularly happy about that either. But, your excellency, if you worry about being pulled into the Republic, I must ask you not to worry. We are only here to assist you in case of attack. Not to annex you." Bail gave another smile. "That is quite good to hear, Obi-Wan. I appreciate your time to come here and protect our people."
Arno got increasingly angry. "You mean get our people killed!" He looked at Obi-Wan, his face red. "You're dragging our people into your war!" Obi-Wan disagreed. "It's not my war. It's the Republic's. As a Jedi Knight, it is my responsibility to protect the Republic." Arno put his silverware down. Bail was angry. "SILENCE, MINISTER!" Arno got up and walked out of the room.

Bail sighed. "My apologies, Jedi warrior. Arno was raised at a time when the Jedi and Republic expansion were to be feared." Obi-Wan nodded. "I understand. I think most neutral systems feel the same way to a degree." Bail laughed. "That is probably true." Obi-Wan was still curious. "Yet, as a neutral system, you still supply the Republic military?" "Well, used too. Since Ryasa's death, and the creation of the Stormtrooper Corps, we haven't supplied the Republic with weapons or uniforms. And even though Arno was a part of helping militarize the Republic, it was on my orders. Arno, you see, believes that with Alderaan containing so many weapons, and being neutral, Palpatine will crack down on us to make sure we aren't supplying weapons to other neutral systems." "A rebellion?," asked Obi-Wan.
"Precisely."
Obi-Wan noticed the room was empty. "If I may, Bail, will I meet the Queen?" Bail looked down. "There is no Queen. Well..not anymore." Obi-Wan apologized immediately. "Oh, I'm so sorry." Bail shook his head. "No. No. It's fine....," he put his silverware down too. "I used to have a wife and son. Years ago. You see, Obi-Wan, as a neutral system that supplied the Republic in the old days, we have become...quite unpopular with a few other neutral systems. A group of terrorists from another planet crashed their ship into my family's royal speeder..." Obi-Wan swallowed. "My..condolences, Bail." Bail looked down. "Thank you, my friend." The two continued eating their meal.

 

Chapter 9: Heart of Darkness

The Jedi starfighter arrived in Gardia's atmosphere. Anakin was uneasy. He hadn't seen his family in five years. Not to mention the way things became when he left....Anakin was also nervous that the Jedi Order would find out. They had no idea he had returned to his homeworld.

As Anakin flew over the grassy plains, towards the Eloo Kirat village, he saw smoke on the horizon. As the ship got closer, Anakin saw the village scorched, homes and shops wrecked. The entire place looked like the aftermath of a warzone, with bodies littered in the streets. Anakin was shocked. He believed maybe the Union had done this. But why? Why attack an insignificant village? Anakin landed his starfighter in the spaceport. He jumped out of the cockpit, running towards his family's home. With each corpse he ran passed, his heartbeats got faster. As he arrived at his former home, he noticed the workshop garage was intact, but the home entrance door was caved in, and a huge hole. No!

Anakin ran inside, finding the bodies of Kane and Nora Lars. Anakin checked for a pulse but found none. They were dead. Anakin felt tears start streaming from his face. Who did this?!?!

Anakin looked to see an arm sticking out of a pile of debris. Owen! Anakin used the Force to lift up the debris and move it to the side. He dragged Owen away from it. Owen had a bruise above his right eye. His eyes slowly opened. "Uhh..Anakin?" Anakin grabbed his hand. "I'm here, Owen. I'm here.." Owen gave a small smile. "Owen..who did this?" Owen was starting to fade out. "..bounty hunters..." Owen slipped back into unconsciousness. Anakin was alone again.

He felt confusion, pain, and loss, all at the exact time. He was angry. Not just at the bounty hunters who committed this atrocity, but at himself too. He was too late to save his parents. Too late to apologize. These killers....they took that chance away from him. Anakin felt the fire in his heart ignite. The darkness consumed him. He felt focused. He knew there would be no remorse. He was gonna kill them. All of them.

Anakin walked into the Lars shop. He grabbed his swoop bike that he built as a teenager. As he flew off into the sunset, Anakin knew he could not allow any of them to escape. Anakin saw a green-armored man walking alone. Anakin used the Force to unclip his lightsaber and ignited the blue blade. He charged the man on his speeder. The man turned around and immediately fired his blaster at him. The red shot made Anakin fall of the speeder, trying to avoid it. Anakin began rolling in the dirt, the bike crashing into the ground. Anakin felt no pain though. His anger numbed his injury. He just wanted vengeance.

The green-armored man looked at Anakin. "Skywalker?" Anakin was ready to kill him, but the man's acknowledgement of him made him hesitate. He recognized the armor. It was the same of the Jantek stormtroopers. "Lieutenant Fett?" Boba shook his head. "Just Boba now..." Anakin pounced on the man, knocking him to the ground, holding the blue blade by Boba's neck. "You! You killed everyone in Eloo Kirat?! YOU KILLED MY FAMILY!?" Boba shook his head. "No. I was hired to, but I refused to kill any innocents. I betrayed them, and just escaped. I assume they did it, huh?" Anakin got off the bounty hunter, and deactivated his saber. "Where did they go?" Boba got up. "I'll help ya find them. For free too. We have to hurry though. They are probably ready to leave this planet." Anakin nodded. "Then let's go." Boba studied Anakin curiously. "I see this Clone War has changed you a lot, kid." Anakin looked back. "You have no idea..."

 

Chapter 10: Violent By Design

As the sun was setting, Darth Vindis and the bounty hunters arrived at his ship. Vindis had told them to wait outside while he talks to his "employer." Vindis entered the ship and a hologram of a hooded Palpatine appeared. "Lord Vindis, did you succeed in your mission?" "Yes, my Lord. The village has been wiped out and Skywalker's family is dead." Palpatine smiled. "Very well, my apprentice. Leave immediately. The bounty hunters will be bait for Skywalker." Darth Vindis nodded. "Yes, my Lord."
Vindis was slightly worried. Why did his master have such an interest in Skywalker? Was he to be replaced? Vindis gritted his teeth. It wasn't important now. He had to leave before the young Jedi Knight found him. He turned on the ship's engines.

The other bounty hunters turned to see the Sith Lord's ship taking off. "We've been double-crossed! Open fire on his ship!" The bounty hunters began to fire on the ship, but it took off. Jayha, Boushh, Homa, and Slith were on there own. "Great..," said Homa with slight amusement. Jayha sighed. "BLAST! Our ships are on the other side of the Eloo Kirat village." "Looks like we have no choice," said Slith.

"You did." The bounty hunters turned to see Anakin Skywalker, holding his blue saber, and Boba Fett. Homa's brow raised. "Good to see ya again, Boba. What? Did you tattle on us to a Jedi?" Boba raised his carbine. "No." He opened fire. The other bounty hunters opened fire on him too. Boba used his jetpack to fly above Homa Exec. The hulking bounty hunter began firing in the air. Boba dropped a neutralizer bomb on the blue Regellian. Homa laughed. "What is this su-" The bomb went off, causing Homa to implode and disintegrate, the Regellian's body being reduced to ash. Anakin charged Jayha and Slith, who were firing multiple rounds at Anakin. Anakin deflected each shot, and swung at the Trandoshan. Slith moved out of the way. Anakin's eyes burned with anger. "I'm gonna make you pay." Jayha laughed. "You seem angry, Jedi. I thought that was a bad thing." Anakin's anger increased. He reached out with his hand, focusing his anger on the bounty hunter. She dropped her weapon and her grasped at her throat. Anakin was choking her, but he wasn't completely aware of it. She fell to the ground on her knees. "P..pleease." Anakin wasn't listening. His hand was tightly closed, feeling the Force around her neck. He continued to close. She collapsed to the ground, dead. Slith fired more rounds from his rifle at Anakin, but Anakin dodged them. He threw his lightsaber at the Trandoshan, decapitating the bounty hunter. Anakin used the Force to retrieve the saber.

Boba and Boushh were in hand to hand combat together. They had both been in the Republic military at some point, their skills evenly matched. Boushh threw an uppercut at Boba, but Boba grabbed Boushh's fist and clenched it hard enough to break his hand. Boushh yelled. He kicked Boba in the leg, Boba falling on one knee. Boushh took this opportunity to knee Fett in his helmet, the bounty hunter collapsing. Boushh then ran off into a thick brush, disappearing from sight. Anakin was in a trance. He couldn't believe he choked someone to death with the Force. What have I done?, he thought. He looked down at his hand. Boba got up from the ground. "Ugh." He walked towards Anakin and put his hand on his shoulder. "Are you alright, kid?" Anakin snapped out of it. "Uh..yeah. Where did the other bounty hunter go?" Boba looked down. "He escaped." Anakin's hand clenched up. "We should look for him." Boba shook his head. "It's not worth it, kid. Believe me." Anakin felt the streams of tears leave his eyes. He looked at Boba. "Let's get my brother."

 

With the sunrise on Gardia, Anakin loaded Owen's unconscious body onto his starfighter. He then grabbed a shovel from the workshop and dug up two graves for his parents. He left Stones of Dejai'n, a religious custom on the planet, to mark their graves. Boba looked at the morning horizon, then turned to face Anakin. "I'm sorry about your loss, kid." Anakin's face was red. Part of it from crying, part of it of anger. "Me too," Anakin murmured. Boba began to speak. "I've lost loved ones too, but I have seen violence through most of my adult life. Trust me, it gets easier..." Anakin shook his head. "I don't wanna let go. Not yet.." Boba nodded. "I understand. I have to go kid. I got a job from the Hutts. Something about a pirate attack on a spice ship." He put his hand on Anakin's shoulder. "Take care of yourself, Anakin." He walked off into the horizon. Anakin just watched him walk off. When Boba disappeared from sight, Anakin got into his ship. He planned to bring Owen to Coruscant.

Chapter 11: Victory on Femorran

In the orbit of Femorran, the Republic Fleet was holding up against the Femorran Dominion's military force. A staunch supporter of The Cloning Rights Union, Femorran had massive slave camps holding clones. Tarkin, on board the Leviathan, watched as the Femorran capital ship, The Ominous, loomed over the remaining Republic Star Destroyers. Tarkin was having a hard time trying to get Republic troops on the ground. The Ominous kept using their super weapon laser to blow up over 20 Republic transport ships at once. The Ominous opened fire on a Star Destroyer. The superlaser charged, with a massive green stream blowing up the Star Destroyer in chunks.
A Republic officer approached Tarkin. "Sir, we just lost The Genesis." Tarkin's teeth began to grit. "Get Firebird online, we need them to take down that ship!" "Right away sir!"

Aboard The Ominous, the repetillian-like Femorrans watched the battle from the deck. Dominion commander, Zeekus, was appraoched by a Femorran pilot. "Commander, we are losing ships fast." Zeekus sneered. "The Republic will not be able to get past this ship. With our superweapon, they are defenseless. We will blow up the entire fleet before they get to the surface."

Arcadia, in a new experimental TIE bomber, was tracking a Dominion Y-Wing. The Y-Wing began to spin, trying to shake her off. Arcadia decided a new tactic was in order. She couldn't just shoot it down. Arcadia launched her ship upward, getting a higher altitude. The Femorran pilot looked behind to see if the Republic fighter was still on his tail. He laughed. He had been able to escape them.
Arcadia was above him. She launched her plasmic bombs on the Y-Wing. The Dominion ship exploded. Should've looked up, she thought.

She heard a voice on her comlink. "Commander Speedstarr, this is Admiral Tarkin. We need Firebird Squadron to take out The Ominous. It's our best shot at getting Republic troops on ground." "Roger that. Firebird Squadron! Form up on me. We need to take out The Ominous!"

Arcadia and three other TIE bombers got up behind her. They began to charge The Ominous. Commander Zeekus noticed. "Republic bombers?!" He looked at a nearby captain. "Get all Dominion pilots out now. I want those bombers destroyed."

Dominion Y-Wings left the hangars, getting behind Firebird Squadron. Arcadia swooped around several, and shot two down. One combusted completely, while the other crashed into The Ominous. She decided the best way to blow up the ship was to hit it's core reactor. "Firebird! I need a distraction. I'm heading into the ship to blow it up from the inside." She pulled up on her controls and zoomed into the hangar. Dozens of Dominion soldiers began firing at her. She used the TIE's cannons to blast several of them. The core is usually only accessible through a construction ship ventilation system, she remembered. She noticed a large hole in the ceiling of the hangar. That's a start.

She flew up into the hole, and began navigating through the ventilation network. Commander Zeekus, on the deck, wasn't pleased. A Dominion officer walked up to him. "Commander. We have notification that a Republic bomber has just entered the Ventilation System to the Core." Zeekus was worried. "Get me a rocket launcher, captain. I'll deal with this pest myself."

As Arcadia reached the core, she saw the purple plasma chamber. That's where the superweapon gets its power, she thought. Commander Zeekus walked into the Core Room, standing on a platform with two Dominion guards. He aimed his launcher at the TIE. Arcadia noticed. "BLASTED!" The launcher fired but Arcadia quickly zoomed out of the way. She saw Zeekus receive another rocket from one of the guards, trying to reload. "My turn." She aimed her cannons at the platform and fired. Commander Zeekus was blown away into the fires of the cannon blasts. She then dropped all her bombs into the core, and headed back into the ventilation system.

Tarkin saw The Ominous exploding from the inside, on the deck of The Leviathan. Arcadia zoomed out of the hangar. The Ominous was destroyed. Republic transports began to land immediately. Tarkin was pleased. "Good work, Commander." Arcadia smiled at her accomplishment. "Thank you, Admiral."

Tarkin was impressed by The Ominous's superweapon. He was curious to know if any piece of the plasma generator was left. If he could give a piece to Palpatine, Republic scientists could find a way to build one of their own. He smiled. "Captain," he turned to face a thin -faced, scrawny Republic officer. "Send a research investigation ship to look for any piece of the weapon generator in The Ominous debris."

 

Chapter 12: Brothers

Anakin was heading to Coruscant when Owen gained consciousness in the co-pilot seat. He was still slightly dazed. "Uhh...where am I?" He turned to see Anakin. "Anakin?...Anakin!" Anakin was silent. "They're gone, Owen." Owen frowned. "What? What do you mean?" Anakin sighed. "Mom and Dad are dead." Owen was shook. He looked around for a minute and then began to speak. "They...attacked the village. I still don't know why."
"I'm bringing you to Coruscant. We can find you a place to stay there."
Owen disagreed. "No. I don't want anything to do with the Republic. We need a place to talk, Anakin. Just you and me. Being surrounded by greedy politicians isn't where I wanna be." Anakin looked down, briefly. "Where?" Owen looked at Anakin's holomap. "There! Nar Shaddaa. A hear it's a spaceport planet for people to lay low." Anakin nodded. "Owen..." Owen looked at Anakin curiously. "I'm sorry..." Owen's face was blank in thought. He didn't have any words to justify the distance that grew between them since Anakin left.

 

Chapter 13: Wars Not Make One Great

Arno Betten, Prime Minister of Alderaan, walked towards a group of Aldeeranians in green jumpsuits, and red bands tied around their arms. Betten sighed. "Organa has...accepted the Republic's offer to turn Aldeeran into a war zone."
One of the Aldeeranians scoffed. "King Organa is gonna get people killed. We need to act now. The Aldeeranian People's Party needs to install a new government. Not this outdated monarch!" Betten agreed. "Tomorrow we will assassinate the King. We must take out the Jedi too. He is a liability to our plans. I promise as new leader I will make Aldeeran a military state and restore our people to greatness once again."

Bail and Obi-Wan were walking through an elaborate palace hall. "As you see my Jedi friend, Aldeeran has a history of rich culture, one that could potentially be destroyed if the Clone Wars reached here,which is why I was hesitant to ask for assistance."
Obi-Wan looked at Bail. "Did Palpatine alert you?"
Bail nodded. "Yes. He told me the Union was most likely to attack Aldeeran thanks to Republic strategic intelligence. He said the Union wanted Aldeeran's resources." Obi-Wan raised a brow. "So you yourself didn't hear any direct threat from the Bakurans?" "Well..no, but Aldeeran is also having some domestic trouble too." Obi-Wan stopped. "What do you mean, Bail?" Bail sighed. "We have a few...militant groups that we need to attend to. One of them, the Aldeeranian People's Party has risen in opposition of my rule." Obi-Wan asked, "Why?"
"As we discussed, there are those like Arno who believe the government should not be connected to the Republic's interests in any capacity. They also believe in building an militarized government. An Aldeeranian Empire-one to oppose the Republic just in case the Republic turns on the neutral systems."
Obi-Wan was briefly speechless. "This sounds like a serious problem..." Bail shook his head. "No, no, no. It's a domestic issue. A small problem. I understand their frustrations, I do, but to me, their cause is contradictory. They want neutrality but believe in imperialism. That is something I cannot allow." Obi-Wan nodded. "And the Prime Minister? Is he part of this People's Party?" Bail frowned. "Just because someone doesn't believe in the Republic's ideals, doesn't make them a terrorist, my Jedi friend." Obi-Wan apologized. "No, of course not. You're right. How silly of me to assume your second in charge was trying to conspire against you." They both laughed. Bail then said, "Well, tomorrow is coming soon. I must get some rest. Good night, my friend." Obi-Wan bowed. "Good night, King Organa. I will remain on watch."

 

Chapter 14: Everything Is Going As I Have Forseen

On Coruscant, Darth Vindis's ship landed in an abandoned hangar in the corporate sector. The dark skies combined with the constant smoke of production, kept him hidden. As he exited the ship, another dark silhouette greeted him. "You have done well, Lord Vindis. We have caused great pain to the prophesized Skywalker."
"Thank you, master. What is the news of the war?"
Palpatine smiled. "Tarkin's fleet has just defeated the Femorrans. They are returning back to Coruscant. Soon the Union will fall, and our plans will come to fruition." Vindis smiled. "And what about Skywalker's master, Obi-Wan Kenobi?"
Palpatine laughed. "I needed to separate him from Skywalker. We have a threat on Aldeeran. A group known as The Aldeeranian People's Party has been planning a coup to take the throne. They are planning to build an empire against my rule." Palpatine gritted his teeth. "I don't like competition."
"So why only send one Jedi?"
"The Republic and Jedi are too focused on the war. One Jedi is perfect enough to take care of this small problem. King Organa is too passive of a leader. When we form our empire, taking over the neutral systems will be easy..." Palpatine cackled louder as the two dark siders walked on.

Chapter 15: Mutiny

Obi-Wan was watching the sunrise on Aldeeran. Beautiful, he thought. He couldn't remember the last time he saw something so peaceful. King Organa walked up behind him. "Good morning, General Kenobi." Obi-Wan turned around, seeing Bail's warm smile. "Good morning." "Wonderful sunrise, no?" Obi-Wan nodded. "It's quite breath-taking." The orange rays illuminated the sky, radiating a sea of color all over the horizon. Bail began to spoke. "Our defense forces are barricading around the city as we speak. If the Union tries an attack, we will be ready." The two walked back into the palace, several guards following Bail. Obi-Wan sensed something wrong. "General, excuse me. I have to attend a local conference with our Defense Force commanders." "Of course, sir."
As Bail walked off, Obi-Wan began to investigate his feelings. He walked towards a locked door. This is where the disturbance was coming from. He used the Force to override the security doors. It was Arno Betten's office. He saw the huge portrait of the prime minister hanging overhead.
As he walked towards the desk, he saw a stack of bodies of laying. Obi-Wan's eyes widened. He saw they were wearing Aldeeranian Guard underbody suits. Oh No!

As Bail and his four guards were walking in the hall towards the military conference room, two of the guards walked behind Bail, aiming their rifles at him. Bail turned around. "What?!" Before they could fire, Obi-Wan charged down the hall with speed anything unlike what Bail had seen before. One guard was cut down from the back before he could turn around. The other three aimed their rifles at the Jedi, who blocked their blasts with ease. Obi-Wan slashed a guard in the stomach, and used the Force to slam another one on the wall, breaking their bones. The last guard tried to turn his rifle on Bail and fired. Obi-Wan jumped in and deflected the blast. He then threw his saber at the guard and the guard's torso fell into two. Bail was astonished. "What is going on?!" Obi-Wan faced him. "Those weren't your guards, your Excellency. I found the bodies of your guards in the minister's office." Bail was completely shocked. The color had drained from his face. "I say we look for the minister and question him. Meanwhile, get all guardsmen and your soldiers on alert. I fear the battle has been here from the start."

 

Chapter 16: Nar Shaddaa

As Anakin's starfighter landed on Nar Shaddaa, Anakin noticed the illumination of bars, restaurants, and a night skyline that could rival Coruscant. "This is a moon where smugglers, pirates, and scum go to lay low," Owen said. The two walked out of the ship, and began walking down the shady alleys. Anakin bumped into an Ithorian. "Watch Yourself!" Owen looked at Anakin. "Come on. I know a place where we can talk."
The two walked into the nearest bar, a neon-filled performance was going on. The two took a seat at a booth. The waitress, a Togrutan female, took their order. "Jawa Juice." They both ordered the same beverage. When the drinks arrived, Anakin was silent. He didn't really know what to say, and he was still in shock of his parents' death. Owen spoke first. "Anakin, I'm not mad at you. It wasn't your fault." Anakin shook his head. "Someone targeted you because of me. If I hadn't left for the Jedi, they would still be alive..."
Owen sighed. "Well," he swallowed. "You're here now." Anakin looks down. Owen frowned. "Oh come on! You're seriously staying with those damn religious crusaders? You're fighting that Clone War for them?!?" Anakin looked at him. "It's my job to protect the Republic." Owen laughed. "God, they brainwashed you too. You're fighting a war that you should've never gotten involved with in the first place!" Anakin's temper was rising. He wanted to punch Owen right in the jaw, but he held restrain. "It was my choice, Owen! I wanted this!" "And do you still want it?" Anakin wasn't sure how to respond to that question. Owen took another sip of his juice. "Stay with me, little brother. It's what mom and dad would've wanted. We can start a business and look after one another." Anakin was conflicted. "No...I swore an oath to the Jedi. I have a purpose as Anakin.." He paused. Owen's eyebrow raised. "Anakin...?" Anakin continued. "..Skywalker." Owen was shocked. "They made you change your identity too?! What kind of nonsense they teach you?" Anakin stood up. "I'm a Jedi Knight, Owen. I know what mom and dad would've wanted I can't do that. I have my purpose..." Owen was drunk. "Leave then. I never want to see you again..." Those words stung Anakin, like a needle into his heart. Anakin looked down. "What about you?" Owen shook his head. "I'll find my own path..like you. No wonder why mom and dad were disappointed in you." Anakin's sadness and anger increased. He walked up to Owen, and punched him straight in the face. Owen tumbled over to the floor, bleeding from the lip. Anakin's eyes widened. He immediately felt regret. "Owen..I'm sorry. I didn't mean to.." Owen looked up. "Save it," he whispered. "Just leave me alone." Anakin nodded. He walked back to his ship.

 

Chapter 17: The Coup on Alderaan

Aldeeranian security guards and the local defense force lined up the palace. They were on high alert after Obi-Wan and Bail warned them of assassins. Obi-Wan and Bail were discussing what the Alderaanian People's Party's next move would be.
"They must be planning a coup. I fear we may have a full attack on the palace." Obi-Wan nodded. "Then we are prepared."

As the two Alderaanian Security Guards saw dozens of X-33 Landspeeders arrive in front of the palace. The guards raised their weapons. One of them went on a comlink. "Sir! We have company!" Dozens of men and women jumped out of the speeders, in green jumpsuits and red bands tied on their arms. "REVOLUTION!!"
The insurrectionists opened fire on the guards at the palace. One soldier was hit by a red laser, immediately collapsing to the ground. The APP imperialists stormed the palace. Blaster fire broke out between the revolutionaries and the guards. Obi-Wan heard the fire, and pushed Bail to the ground. "Stay here," he warned. Obi-Wan then ran to sounds of struggle, igniting his lightsaber. As two soldiers spotted King Organa, they asked if he was alright. "I'm fine." "We need to get you safe. There's a transport that will take you to a safehouse out in the countryside." "No! These are my people, Corporal. I will stand my ground and deal with these militants." Before the soldiers could respond, a blaster bolt struck one of the soldiers in the chest, and another bolt hit the other in the neck. The two soldiers collapsed. Arno Betten was standing behind the soldiers, a blaster pistol in hand. He sighed. "It's a shame it has to come to this, Bail. You could've been the king to restore Alderaan to its former glory. An empire built away from this corrupt Galactic Republic." Bail shook his head. "Betten...I can't believe you would betray the people like this. The Republic is flawed, yes, but the neutral systems can only have power in the galaxy if we work with other like-minded politicians to fix its flaws and create peace between the Core, Neutral, and Outer Rim systems." "The Republic is unfixable, Organa!," hissed Betten. "The neutral systems can have power if we work together to create a new government. Once we are strong, we can eliminate the Republic and rule the galaxy ourselves! You have to be a fool to not see a galaxy ruled by an Alderaanian Empire!!" Bail shook his head. "The reason why Aldeeran is neutral is not because we fear the Republic, but because we do not want part in its wars and conflict. But we also have a responsibility in helping the Republic create diplomacy on worlds in non-Republic systems. And we also have a responsibility in defending our homes, and those who want to destroy that peace." Betten laughed. "Says the man who helped armed the Republic military when Ryasa was in office. You're a hypocrite, Organa." Bail frowned. "Ryasa hated unnecessary bloodshed like I do, but we both agreed peacekeeping and conflict weren't always unavoidable. I gave Alderaan control of the Republic's military by supplying them with small-fire weapons. Since Palpatine's militarization, I have redrawn Alderaan's military support!"
"Then you agree Palpatine must be killed."
Bail was getting frustrated. "I may not agree with Palpatine's policies, but we can find a way to make him support our wants through diplomatic means, not violence!" Betten shook his head. "I'm sorry then, old friend." Betten raised the blaster, but Bail thought fast. He dived for one of the dead soldier's guns, and shot the Prime Minister in the chest. Arno dropped the pistol and hit the ground with a quick sound. He was lying face first on the floor.

As Obi-Wan blocked two shots from a gunman, he charged the green-suited militant and upward sliced the man's chest. The blue saber hit the rib cage, permanently ending the man's fight.
The APP insurgents were holding their ground, but the arrival of Obi-Wan was turning the tide. Obi-Wan cut down several more rebels when an Alderaanian guard approached him. "General Kenobi, the APP is retreating to their speeders!" The Alderaanian Defense Force shot down several rebels when most of them jumped in their speeders. Obi-Wan arrived on the scene. "General, we can't let them escape!" Obi-Wan agreed. He threw his lightsaber at one of the speeder's generators, causing the speeder to explode. The massive blast knocked the other speeders around, causing the militants to become unconscious in the mayhem. As the speeders were either on fire or flipped, Alderaanian soldiers moved in to arrest the remaining APP insurgents. Bail walked out to see all the commotion. "Impressive. Most impressive." Obi-Wan turned to face him. "Where's Betten?" Bail sighed. "Dead." He continued. "But you saved my life today, Obi-Wan. The coup has failed. I owe you one." He gave Obi-Wan a smile. The two observed the Alderaanian guards escorting the militants to a prison.

 

Chapter 18: It's A Trap

President Palpatine watched as a Jedi starfighter landed outside of the Senate building, from his window. He saw Anakin walk out, heading to his office. Perfect, he thought. He could sense the young Jedi's pain and frustration. Sim Aloo, one of Palpatine's advisors, entered the room. "Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker has arrived, sir." "Send him through."

Anakin walked into the president's office. Palpatine greeted him with a warm smile. "Ahh, Anakin. What a pleasure to see you. How did the mission on Gardia go?"
Anakin was silent for a moment. "They killed my parents." Palpatine's eyebrow raised. "The Union?" "I don't know. I think it's someone who knew about them though." Palpatine gave a look to Anakin, and he knew what it meant. The Jedi.
Anakin brushed that thought aside, but he knew Palpatine might have a point. Palpatine stood up, and placed a hand on Anakin's shoulder. "I am sorry to hear that, my boy. Now you see the horrors of allowing scum to persist within the galaxy. The Republic needs to be stronger, more aggressive, to deal with such senseless violence."
Anakin nodded. "I agree, sir. I will not allow such an atrocity to be committed on other worlds. To other families." Palpatine sensed Anakin's anger. "Then we need to absorb the Union back into the Republic. We cannot allow for such secessionist movements to think they can leave whenever they want." Anakin chimed in. "We will win this war, sir." "Oh, I know. I have learned that Tarkin's fleet is headed to Bakura to deal with the Socialist League. Once the League is defeated, this so-called "Cloning Rights Union" will collapse." Anakin smiled. Palpatine was ready to create schism between the Jedi and Anakin. "To think...your parents might've been still alive if you never left them for the Jedi Order." Anakin's eyes widened. Palpatine noticed the young man pondering on those thoughts. "But it's what I needed to do. I couldn't stay on Gardia forever." Palpatine realized Anakin still had faith in the Jedi, but he also sensed some doubts. In time, he would work on those.
An alarm went off at Palpatine's desk. Palpatine walked up to it, and hit the transmission. A hologram of Lok Dantos appeared. "Sorry to disturb you, sir. We need Anakin to return to the Jedi Temple immediately." Palpatine nodded. "He will be on his way." After the transmission ended, he looked at Anakin and smiled. "They're finally giving you a chance for more action." Anakin smiled too. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate you sending me on my own and giving me a chance to revisit my family." "Anytime, my friend. Though I must say, it does seem a bit odd the Jedi would want you back after your tragedy, no? Of course, it could be all a coincidence..." Anakin knew what Palpatine meant by that, but it was too outlandish to be true. Why would the Jedi order his family to be killed? Still, it did seem a bit too coincidental. Anakin left the president's office, jumped into his ship, and headed back to Yavin IV.

 

Update: I apologize for the long wait. School got really busy.

Chapter 19: The Planning

Anakin landed his starfighter on Yavin IV. He walked to the Temple where Yoda, Qia, and Lok were hustled around the war room. Lok turned. "Skywalker, how did your mission on Coruscant go?" Anakin looked down. He was still in pain, but did his best to hide it. "Very well, Master." Lok raised a brow. He could sense something..different about Anakin. Unfortunately, there was no time to discuss it.
"Well, good to hear. Qia and me are leading a Jedi Strike Team to Bakura. Tarkin's fleet has arrived and the Union is making their last stand. Kombus, leader of the Bakuran Socialist League, will be throwing everything they can at us. The planet is heavily fortified and we need all the Jedi we can get." Anakin gave a smile. "I'm in." Yoda warned Anakin. "Do not find serenity within war, young Skywalker. A path to the dark side that is." Anakin nodded. "Of course, Master..I apologize." He realized he did enjoy war. It was violent and ugly, yes, but it gave him the sense of adventure and potential to prove himself. Something he had been looking forward to doing ever since he left Gardia with Obi-Wan to become a Jedi. Lok Dantos moved to the monitor. A hologram of Obi-Wan appeared. "Master Dantos. Apparently, there was no Union attack on Alderaan, but we did divert a coup against King Organa." Lok and Yoda looked at each other. Yoda began to speak. "Hmm, strange. Republic intelligence was sure that a Union attack was imminent." "Maybe Intel was off?," replied Obi-Wan. Lok began to think. "Possibly, but it seems awfully convienent that a coup would start right when a Jedi Knight arrives." "No time to think on that," said Yoda. "To Bakura, we must go." Qia responded. "Transports are ready." Lok looked back at the hologram. "Obi-Wan. We need you to head to Bakura immediately." Obi-Wan nodded. "Yes, master. I'll be on my way." As the hologram faded out, Obi-Wan turned to see Bail walk in. "Sorry to interrupt you, my Jedi friend, but...I hear the Clone Wars are possibly coming to an end." Obi-Wan turned and said, "Indeed. If we can take Bakura and free the clone slaves, the war will end." Bail sighed. "I know my planet is neutral, but I want to help. I'm sending a company of the Alderaanian guard to help you." Obi-Wan smiled. "Really?" "Why yes. You saved my life and stopped a revolution against me. It's the least I can do." Obi-Wan grabbed Bail's shoulder. "Thank you, my friend."

 

Chapter 20: Invasion of Bakura

Arcadia Speedstarr watched as the Republic pilots all began to scramble to their TIE Fighters. This is it, she thought. Five years of war and the Cloning Rights Union was all but collapsed. With Bakura's allies defeated, the Socialist League hired mercenaries from former Union planets to reinforce their own militia. Arcadia was ready to retire from the military. She was ready to live a peaceful life. Especially after the outbreak of the Clone Wars. She had lost a lot of friends due to the violence that plagued the galaxy. She put on her helmet and jumped in her TIE. It was time.

The jungle world of Bakura was full of thick vegetation. The average tree was bigger than 3 Star Destroyers, and the cities were built on the branches, each level containing a huge center for fugitives, entertainment, and shipping. The capital city of Nichtfali was fortified by the Socialist League. Armed milita and mercenaries held the city. Senator Kombus watched as Republic Star Destroyers had arrived, blocking out the sun. A militiaman approached Kombus. "Sir, should we send our air force?" Kombus shook his head. "No. The air is not important. We must hold the line long enough for Palpatine to make negotiations. We have the advantage in this climate. Protect the city. Protect the clones." Republic transports were entering the jungles. In one of the transports, Captain Veers looked at his stormtrooper platoon. "Remember men, if we take this planet, the war will be over!" The stormtroopers cheered. All of a sudden, on one of the city levels, an anti-aircraft turret shot down the ship. "We're going down!" The transport hit the ground, but Veers and his platoon were unharmed. As Captain Veers moved behind the down transport, he pulled out his communication device. "I need help! I repeat, I need help!" A blue crack of blue plasma hit the side of the transport. Veers looked in the direction of the shot to see several Bakuran militia running towards their position. "Dammit! Open fire, men!" The stormtroopers began shooting at the militia. The battle had begun.

 

Chapter 22: The Sith Advance

Palpatine walked towards Darth Vindis on Palpatine's personal Senatorial landing deck. Vindis bowed. "Rise, Lord Vindis." Vindis stood up. "The Republic is invading Bakura." Palpatine smiled. "I know. A Jedi Strike Team is headed there too, led by Lok Dantos." Vindis nodded. "And what about Skywalker?" Palpatine smiled. "Test him. Show no mercy, my apprentice. If you have to kill him, so be it. First, you must isolate him from Kenobi. He is headed to Bakura with an Alderaanian fleet." Vindis smiled. "I will kill Dantos, Kenobi, and Skywalker if I must. The Sith will rule the galaxy." Palpatine laughed. "Very soon, my apprentice. Very soon."

Chapter 23: Anakin and Lok's Conflict

On the Jedi transport, Anakin was still thinking of what happened between Owen and his family. Who hired those killers? Anakin was conflicted but still doubted the Jedi's involvement. Palpatine's words were still powerful to the young Jedi. Lok approached Anakin. "Skywalker. Do as I say and stay close. A Republic transport was shot down in one of the canopies. Our first objective is to save the crew." Anakin frowned. "What about the cloned slaves?" Lok's eyebrow raised. "We will get to them when we can." Lok knew Anakin's passion for rescuing the clones. After the death of all those clones on Aquilae five years ago, Anakin and Obi-Wan had gained a reputation for freeing all clone labor camps within the first few hours of every battle. Anakin stood up. "Master, I will not allow what happened to the clones on Aquilae to occur again." Lok stroked his beard. "Skywalker, I admire your passion, but our duty is what the Republic needs first." Anakin looked into Lok's eyes, coldly. "..or the Jedi's?" Lok wasn't sure what Anakin meant by that comment, but he knew it was an accusation. Lok sensed a lot of anger and anxiety in Anakin. Warning signs of the dark side. Lok grabbed his lightsaber hilt, flashing it at the man. "Take a seat, young Skywalker..." He said it coldly. He wasn't gonna allow Anakin's emotions ruin the mission. The young Jedi's inexperience would get them killed. Anakin was momentarily shocked by Lok's suggestive gesture but his anger subsided, and his head cleared. "Forgive me, master." Anakin sat back down, burying his head into his hands.

 

Chapter 24: Reinforcements

"Firebird Squadron has entered the atmosphere!" Arcadia was maneuvering her TIE through the jungles, trying to avoid the Bakuran Anti-Aircraft guns. The cannons were blasting repeatedly, causing her to have to continously watch the guns and the branches. "Blasted guns!" The rest of Firebird Squadron was busy too. She missed space battles. The openness of it. Trying to fly in the atmosphere of alien worlds was always hard. Still, she wasn't a stranger to it. During the Battle of Halis IV, she took down an entire Union Anti Aircraft Security System, allowing Republic Troops to take the villages. Arcadia moved around the trees, confusing the cannons. She then tried to gain higher ground. There had to be limitations on the emplacements. When she ended up behind the cannons, not sure where she was, she knew she had the advantage. Gonna have to try harder if you want me to die in the last battle of this war, she thought. Arcadia pulled up and fired her missiles inn the cannons, destroying them. Immediately after she got a distress signal. She checked the coordinates and the leftover message. "This is Captain Veers! My platoon is under fire! Our transport crashed! This is our percieved location!" Arcadia tracked the coordinates. She knew Republic reinforcements wouldn't get there on time. "Lieutenant Dezza! You're in command of Firebird now! I'm headed to rescue a downed transport!"

The Jedi Transport entered Bakura's atmosphere. Lok and Qia, the Mon Calamarian Jedi Knight, were looking at the tree line. Lok reminded the 12 Jedi Knights what the mission was. "We are to help reinforce the stormtroopers. Then, we will focus on capturing Senator Kombus and freeing the clones." Anakin stood up from his seat. He looked out the window to observe the environment that awaited him.

Captain Veers dodged the blaster fire of a Bakuran. The Bakuran's orange-tan face, with horns on each side, sneered at him. Veers aimed his pistol at the Bakuran, shooting it between the eyes. "Keep holding men!" Several stormtroopers were hit, their bodies crumbling to the ground. The Bakurans were overrunning their position.

Suddenly, rounds of fire lit up a Bakuran perimeter, the militiamen flying all over. Veers looked up to see a TIE Fighter.

Arcadia landed her fighter, grabbed her blaster pistol from the cockpit, and jumped out to assist the captain. "Looks like you could use some help." Veers nodded. "I appreciate the assist, Commander Speedstarr, but we're gonna need more than one TIE to get our men out of here." Several Bakurans ran at Arcadia, who shot one in the chest, and smacked the other with the end of the blaster. "Noted," she replied with a witty tone. As the remaining Republic forces were holding their own, Arcadia heard the roar of a ship. She looked up to see a Jedi Transport. She grinned widely and tapped Captain Veers on the shoulder. "I think your reinforcements are here, Captain."

 

Chapter 25: The Jedi's Finest Hour

As the transport landed, Lok Dantos immediately jumped from the ship, igniting his green lightsaber. The Bakuran militiamen opened fire on the Jedi, but Dantos blocked their fire with ease. He ran towards one Bakuran, using the Force to turn his blaster, and shoot the Bakuran. Another Bakuran was firing a R-31 blaster rifle at the Jedi Master. Lok didn't waste time. At this point, the other Jedi jumped from the transport and began engaging the Bakurans. Lok used the Force to increase his speed, and impaled his green blade into the Bakuran's stomach sac. Anakin and Qia were blocking shots, while Arcadia was dragging a wounded Republic stormtrooper to safety. A Bakuran ran at her with a warrior Battle Blade but Arcadia drew her blaster pistol and shot the Bakuran straight in the head.

Anakin noticed a Bakuran wrestling with Captain Veers. Veers was being choked out by the Bakuran. Anakin ran, gritting his teeth, and used his blue saber to cut the spine of the Bakuran. The Bakuran crumpled to the ground. Anakin reached out his hand and picked Captain Veers up. "Thank you, Jedi." Anakin gave a nod. He noticed his girlfriend was helping mend several wounded stormtroopers. "What is Commander Speedstarr doing here?," he asked. Captain Veers began to talk. "She abandoned her duty to rescue my platoon. She saved us." Anakin gave a smile. Arcadia was always one to take charge, he thought.

As the Jedi and remaining Republic forces gained an upperhand against the Bakuran assault, the Bakurans retreated into the thick canopies. Jedi Master Lok Dantos regrouped the force. Anakin and Arcadia embraced. "Well, look who decided to show up..," she said with a sarcastic tone. Anakin grinned. "Well, we would've showed up sooner but ya know, Republic politics." Arcadia noticed Obi-Wan wasn't there. "Where's Obi-Wan?" "He had an assignment on Alderaan. He's on his way." Qia approached Anakin. "Excuse me, Master Dantos wants to speak with you two."

Lok, Qia, Anakin, Arcadia, and Captain Veers were hustled around the Jedi transport. Several wounded stormtroopers were taken aboard. "Nichtfali is where the main Bakuran force is held up. If we can take the city, the Union will crumble," Lok said with determination. Qia was still unsure about the strategy. "What about the defense systems? Republic troops won't be able to breach the city if they aren't destroyed." Arcadia interrupted. "I can handle that. I'll take out the city defense system." She looked at Captain Veers. "Captain Veers, use the Jedi transmission to call Tarkin. Ask him to send Republic troops to the city on my call." Anakin looked at Lok. "What's our objective, Master?" "Senator Kombus will be in Nichtfali's residential palace. We will apprehend him there and then fine the remaining clones." Anakin nodded. He was feeling a bit cocky. "Then what are we waiting for?"

As the Republic Navy was orbiting the planet, Tarkin watched, from his personal Star Destroyer, the hologram of the battle below. A Republic Naval officer approached. "Sir, Captain Veers is alerting us of Commander Speedstarr and the Jedi's assault on Nichtfali. We have several transports on stand-by." Tarkin smiled. "Good. Wait for Commander Speedstarr's sign. We will begin phase II of the invasion."

As Tarkin and the Republic Navy focused their efforts on ending the Clone Wars for good, they failed to notice a sleek Sith ship enter the atmosphere....

Meanwhile, Obi-Wan and the Alderaanian Guard arrived in the Bakuran system. "Remember, men. We are here to assist Lok Dantos and the other Jedi in finally ending this destructive conflict." The Guardsmen and Guardswomen let out a collective shout. Obi-Wan started feeling a tremble in the Force. He wasn't sure what it was, but he knew something big was going to happen today...