My thanks for the wonderful outpouring of support and well wishes. Thankfully, the wedding went well and it was a wonderful time for us. Thank you all for your patience during this brief hiatus. So now that things are relatively back to normal, I think that I will return to posting once every other Friday. Aside from being a newlywed, I've been given considerable more responsibility at work so time will be at a premium. Therefore, I think this posting schedule will give me time to keep up and everybody else time to read and ponder what will happen next. Thanks again for your patience and since I'm sure you are all anxious to get reading, I will forgo with individual comments this time. Enjoy!


A Jedi shall not seek out adventure.

Apparently, the axiom was due to the high degree of probability of encountering such events, making it unnecessary to searching for them. Jaden remained close by Obi-Wan's side as they were ushered into the Kaminoan Prime Minister's office. Like the rest of the facility that they had seen, the overly bright white walls were nearly blinding. Upon reaching the Prime Minister's office, he took note that, similiar to Taun We, the Prime Minister was especially tall with a long neck and huge, dark eyes.

"Allow me to introduce the Prime Minster of Kamino, Lama Su." Taun We said in her high-pitched voice.

Both Jedi bowed in respect. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, sir. I am Obi-Wan Kenobi, and this is my apprentice, Jaden Fai."

"It is an honor to meet you, Master Jedi." He responded. "I am surprised, though, that Master Sifo-Dyas did not accompany you."

"Master… Sifo-Dyas?" Obi-Wan repeated curiously.

The large alien looked upon them inquisitively. "Why yes. He was our point of contact with the Jedi Council when this project was initiated nearly ten years ago."

Project?

A sinking feeling was growing in the pit of Jaden's stomach. Surely the Council was not responsible for the creation of a clone army? And who was this Sifo-Dyas that the alien spoke of? He re-centered his focus over to Obi-Wan who didn't appear to be rattled in the slightest.

"That is most curious," Kenobi admitted.

"Oh?" Lama Su responded.

"Master Sifo-Dyas has been missing for quite some time," Obi-Wan informed him. "The Council had assumed that he was dead."

"That's most unfortunate," the Prime Minister continued without lament. "Still, payment has been made for three point five million units. And of course, we never go back on a deal."

Obi-Wan briefly glanced in Jaden's direction. He knew that Master Kenobi was mortified by the situation, but he would not allow their hosts to become aware of his true feelings. It was in this very moment that Jaden realized how much he still had to learn before he reached knighthood. He could not have handled the situation anywhere near as serenely as Obi-Wan was doing.

"Of course not," he responded, briefly rubbing his chin. "Prime Minister, did Master Sifo-Dyas tell you who the army was for?"

"Of course," the Kaminoan said with delight. "It is for the Republic."

The Force itself seemed to snap like a thunder through the air. Only a few minutes before, they had worried that the former Jedi, Sar Dooku, might be under the influence of the Sith. Whatever happened next, Jaden knew that their lives had become much more complicated. He found himself holding his breath, anxiously awaiting the next galaxy-splitting revelation.

"I see," Obi-Wan responded casually. "If it isn't an inconvenience, would you please explain to us your cloning process?"

Lama Su's alien features became larger. Jaden perceived the Kaminoan Prime Minister was elated by the request. "I would be more than happy to do so, Master Jedi. In fact, I would enjoy the chance to show you the facility personally."

"That is most kind."

Jaden waited for the others to file out of the room before he followed. A brief suggestion from Obi-Wan through the Force had prompted him to lag behind. His Master would be so engaged with the Kaminoans that he needed Jaden to be mindful of their surroundings.

The facility, which looked outwardly small, was a labyrinthine maze of corridors that led into the enormous training facility at its central core. Row after row of identical soldiers paraded past them, armed with some of the most advanced blaster technology Jaden had ever seen.

"As you know," Lama Su's raspy voice broke through his thoughts, "cloning is where we take a higher being's genetic background and through a highly automated process, replicate it however many times our clients wish." Jaden couldn't help noticing the magnanimous intonation in the Prime Minister's voice as he boasted their superior capabilities. "Over the years, we have developed more sophisticated methods by which we are able to improve upon the original host's genetic predispositions."

"In other words, you can make them more controllable." Jaden wryly remarked, despite Obi-Wan's glare of warning.

The Kaminoan Prime Minster swiveled about to face him. "That's correct, young one," he said without regret. "It would do your Republic little good to have an army as defiant as the original host. That simply would not be acceptable."

"Speaking of which," Obi-Wan interjected, "who was the original host?"

"A Mandalorian bounty hunter named Jango Fett," Lama Su answered. "And a most troublesome one, I might add."

No amount of Jedi discipline could have kept Jaden and Obi-Wan from staring over at one another. As his Master often preached, there were no coincidences.

"Is he here?" Obi-Wan slowly asked, feigning a passing interest.

The Prime Minister shook his head. "Unfortunately, he and his son, for whom we have more than adequately provided for, have suddenly vanished."

"Son?" Jaden remarked aloud.

"Yes," Lama Su replied. "He asked for a clone without any modifications." He paused momentarily, flashing them both a perplexed look. "Strange, isn't it?"

"Would it be possible to see their quarters?" Obi-Wan politely queried. The Kaminoan appeared ready to protest when he added, "The Council would no doubt wish to know of his whereabouts—in case more clones are required."

"I can assure you, Master Kenobi." Lama Su said somewhat annoyed, "that our genetic repositories are guaranteed to function without incident for at least one hundred standard years."

"I meant no disrespect, Your Honor." Obi-Wan apologized. "However, given the rising tensions in the galaxy, I believe the Council would not want the clones' original host to be... compromised … by whatever opposition the Republic may face in the future."

The Kaminoan looked upon Kenobi appraisingly, but without word for several moments. "That is...a wise precaution." He then tapped a diamond shaped gem on his wrist.

'How may I be of help, Prime Minister?' Taun We called out from the other side.

"Please come down to the main training level," Lama Su ordered. "The Jedi wish to see Fett's residence. Take them there at once."

'I shall come immediately."

"My thanks, Prime Minister." Obi-Wan acknowledged with a half-bow.

Seeming to ignore him, the Kaminoan instead turned towards the columns of marching clones. "I surely do hope you are satisfied with your order."

"I'm looking forward to seeing them in action." The Jedi Knight responded dourly.

"They won't disappoint you, Master Jedi. I can promise you that!"


They were ready.

The final tactical briefing aboard the Naboo capital flagship Queen Amidala –the Ami as she was affectionately called by the crew—went quickly. Everyone, from squadron commanders down to the assistant navigators, was itching to get into the fray. Anakin could sense their anticipation echoing throughout the Force as the time to act drew near. For years, they had lived with the fear that the Trade Federation would once again bring harm to Naboo. Now that they possessed superior military technology, they were more than ready to make a stand against their long time nemesis.

Despite the Naboo's tactical and technological advantages, they were still greatly outnumbered. As a result, the Federation remained a formidable opponent. Anakin's people were prepared to fight—to the death if needs be. He insisted, though, that they remained focused. Even though he delivered that message to his troops, it was also a personal chastisement since it had taken considerable self-control to block out the thoughts of his bride.

His mind wanted to reflect upon the sleepless night that was filled with passion and lovemaking. He could still smell her perfume on his skin and feel the touch of her naked skin on his lips. As much joy as those thoughts brought him, the worry over failing, as well as the Trade Federation's Viceroy getting his slimy hands on Padmé helped him maintain focus.

"My Lord!" called out Miles Ubein from down the long corridor. "Wait up."

Anakin paused so that his aide to catch up. After the briefing, Anakin had retreated into one of the empty officer's quarters in order to meditate. Unable to do so despite trying for hours, he decided to venture down to the main hangar to inspect the fighters that would spearhead the assault.

"I figured I'd find you by heading this way."

"I am not much for sitting around," Anakin wryly grinned. "Something wrong?"

Miles shook his head once. "No, sir. But, I just got off the com with the Professor, and..."

"What did he want?" Anakin felt his brows furrow downward.

"Said he sent something up especially for you." Miles said with a strange smile. "That man is odd."

Anakin began walking again. "I suppose you would be too if you were a genius."

"Hey!" Miles said feigning injury, but tapping his temple playfully. "I'm plenty smart."

"Being smart is not the same as having engineering doctorates in twelve systems," Anakin pointed out.

"Good point."

After they both chuckled, they continued down the long corridor and entered the lift to the hangar deck. Anakin's mind again drifted off as he mentally reviewed the battle plan. If everything went as he had foreseen, the Trade Federation would be overwhelmed. There was still the slight, but real possibility that they had learned of their secret attack and were ready. He could not fail. The plan had to work.

Upon exiting the turbolift, Anakin walked into the middle of the hangar, which he anxiously scanned. "Any idea what I am supposed to be looking for?"

Miles walked up beside him and pointed to the far left corner. Anakin followed his finger until he spotted a larger than normal, but sleek in design, starship being prepped for battle. Taking several steps forward to get a better view, he was taken aback as he recognized it. "That's impossible." Turning towards Miles, he added, "The new Archangel-class starships weren't supposed to be ready for several more weeks."

Ubein guffawed briefly. "And they aren't. That's the prototype," Miles grinned. "And according to Zhall, it has some....special modifications he made with you in mind."

Anakin's eyes traced the new ship almost reverently. Even compared to its predecessor, the Defiance-class starship, this vessel looked fast just sitting in the hangar. He immediately noted the two larger sublight engines along with the numerous additions in armament. Anakin already had the impression that she would be vastly superior to anything they would face in the impending battle. Indeed, he could hardly wait to test her in combat.

"Then why are standing here?" Anakin asked urgently. "Let's go check her out!"

"Right behind you, boss."

Like a child hurrying in anticipation of receiving a new toy, Anakin darted across the hangar and into the new ship. He moved into the cockpit, which was larger than the ill-fated Defiance, but the controls were similar in arrangement. There were though a few noticeable exceptions, the most notable being the display screen that monitored the kelvacyte core. There were also several streamlined additions that made it easier for a single pilot to control the ship's numerous weapon systems.

Anakin turned about when he heard Miles whistle in amazement. "She's some beauty."

"Indeed," he replied trying not to sound like some awestruck kid.

"What are you going to name her?"

Scrunching his face briefly, he then smiled as it suddenly dawned on him. This ship was meant for him and him alone. He instantly knew whom to thank for that. Turning towards his friend, he answered. "The Lady Angel."


An army for the Republic?

Were the Jedi truly involved?

Obi-Wan Kenobi was beyond troubled. Since his days as Qui-Gon's padawan, he had been on countless missions throughout the galaxy. There were times when the subject of their investigations disturbed him on a personal level. Yet, his training as a Jedi taught him to put aside his own biases in order to serve the greater good. Granted, he had his issues with the Jedi code—as attested by his secret marriage—however, in the end, Obi-Wan profoundly believed in the Order itself.

His faith, though, had been shaken.

The Jedi were keepers of the peace. If the Kaminoans' claim that it was the Jedi who were responsible for the construction of this clone army, it would severely undermine the Order's status in the galaxy. It would also serve as a dividing line between the Republic's protectors and the rule of law. The Senate would not react well to this news. He was getting ahead of himself. Obi-Wan had not yet revealed his findings to the Council. There could be a simple explanation that would prevent his concerns from coming into fruition. Also, they may soon learn the whereabouts of the elusive Jango Fett, who could shed considerable light to this disturbing mystery. Obi-Wan had no doubt that the bounty hunter was involved in these schemes.

His mandate to capture him alive had become even more crucial…

"Here we are," Taun We announced.

The swoosh of the door opening brought Obi-Wan out of his musings. To his surprise, even Jaden, who was typically inquisitive, seemed unusually reserved. The boy had seen and been through much during the tenure of their association. Hopefully this mission wouldn't prove to be his breaking point. Obi-Wan was sure that Jaden would soon make a fine Jedi Knight.

He followed the female Kaminoan inside the stark quarters. On first glance it appeared that nobody had lived here in some time. However, upon closer inspection, Obi-Wan noticed several items of clothing scattered about, quite a few datachips on the ground, and...

"Master," Jaden pointed towards the open door in a side compartment.

Obi-Wan had already spotted what had caught the Padawan's attention. Sitting on the floor was an unused helmet, as well as the familiar breast plate armor of their foe. "I know," he finally muttered.

"The Prime Minister indicated that Fett just disappeared recently?" Jaden asked Taun We to reconfirm.

She bobbed her small head several times. "It is not unusual for him to come and go. But always, the boy Boba would stay with us. After a few days of not seeing him, I became concerned and came here to find him. When I used my security pass, I found the quarters just as you see them now."

Obi-Wan passively listened as he probed the room with the Force for any kind of sign of their destination. In the rear of the main living space he saw a hypercom terminal. "Jaden, check the logs. Maybe they left something useful."

"I'm on it, Master."

Meanwhile, Obi-Wan again turned about, looking for something, anything that would help him solve the puzzle. He was plagued by the notion that they may have hit the end of the trail. How could he face the Council with the circumstantial evidence that they had unearthed without learning the actual truth behind it?

"Master."

Obi-Wan ambled over the hypercom terminal where Jaden had an ear-to-ear grin smeared across his face. "Any luck?"

"At first no," he admitted.

Obi-Wan scrunched his face in confusion. "I don't understand"

"Initially, it appeared that the logs had been erased." Jaden continued. 'Then, on a hunch, I went into the backup files and found that whoever had deleted the originals forgot about these."

"Play the last entry," Obi-Wan ordered. "It should hopefully provide us with what we need."

Jaden complied. Within seconds, the two foot facsimile of their dangerous opponent, without his helmet, appeared before them.

"Boba, are you alone?"

"Yeah, Dad. What's wrong?"

"Pack our things. Be ready to leave once I get there."

"Why? What's happened?"

"Too much."

"When will you be here?"

"Two hours."

"I'll be ready."

"I know you will be. And son..."

"Yeah, Dad?"

"Tell no one of our plan. Also, make sure you erase the com logs."

"Sure," the boy answered, sounding distracted.

"Son, nobody can learn where we've going. Be sure you do it!"

"Okay, okay." Boba said, annoyed. "Where are we going?"

"Dxun."

"Dxun?" Jaden swiveled around to face Obi-Wan. "Wait. Isn't that an old Mandalorian sanctuary?"

He dipped his head forward. "And it still could be."

Anxiously looking forth from where the holographic log was still playing, the Padawan asked, "What do we do now?"

"Get the ship ready for takeoff." Obi-Wan ordered. "I will contact the Council. The situation has gotten considerably more complicated."

Jaden snorted as he paused in the doorway. "That is the understatement of the century, Master."

Obi-Wan briefly chuckled. "Probably so. Anyhow, have the ship ready to go in a few minutes. I shouldn't be long."

"Yes, Master."


It was a cool evening in Theed. After completing the administrative duties for the day, Padmé decided to go for a walk to clear her thoughts. Never before had she contended with such conflicting feelings. On one hand, she was elated to be married to her beloved one. He had loved her so gently, so tenderly the night before that her flesh was again craving his touch. Yet, her peaceful bliss was intruded upon with feelings of deep concern.

Only an hour remained before Anakin began the attack. For the duration of the operation, Padmé would be confined to the war room in case an executive decision was required. Even if she wasn't needed, she would be there to watch and wait anxiously for her husband to return to her. If it had been appropriate, Padmé would have been up there with him, fighting by his side. Unfortunately, her duties kept her from where she wanted to be most.

Unable to go out unescorted, Padmé flanked by her cousin Cordé, as well as her chief handmaiden Dormé, kept a steady pace with her. The typically chatty handmaidens were both unusually silent. She surmised that they too were worried about the impending military action. Indeed, they all had either family or friends who were involved. It was one more harsh reality having a military brought.

Padmé instantly brushed those thoughts aside. She would not allow herself to dine on the ashes of a decision made years prior. It was done. Most importantly, her decision to create the military had been the right thing to do.

"It's a beautiful night," Dormé observed.

"It is," Padmé acknowledged, thankful one of them had finally said something.

"I can almost smell autumn in the air," remarked Cordé.

Padmé smiled. "The harvest festival isn't long from now. I am really looking forward to it this year."

"I would imagine," Cordé grinned. "It won't be long after when your term will be over."

While Padmé nodded silently, Dormé turned to her. "I had forgotten about that. What will you do then, Your Majesty?"

"We plan to stay in Anakin's residence until my obligation to the incoming monarch is complete," she answered. "Hopefully in the meantime we can scout out some land to build our home."

"I'm surprised that you aren't moving into the Waterfall castle," Cordé remarked.

"It was a nice offer by Parliament," Padmé said, almost embarrassed. "However, it is much too large for just the two of us."

"Perhaps it won't only be the two of you for much longer?" Her cousin teased.

Padmé giggled. "We haven't even had a chance to talk about that." Her levity instantly fell as she realized, "Actually, we haven't been able to speak about much at all."

"I'm sure Lord Skywalker will take care of our Trade Federation problem soon," Dormé commented hopefully.

"We shall see," Padmé sighed. "I wish it was only they that concern me." Both handmaidens turned to her with worried expressions. "You both know, as well as I about the rising problems with the Separatists. We may only be solving one problem before facing another."

"I don't understand why the Senate won't do something!" Dormé said in frustration.

"Bail," Cordé began, but quickly corrected herself. Her flushed red checks though didn't escape Padmé's notice. "I mean, Senator Organa, said that there is a huge movement in the Senate to bring Count Dooku to the negotiation table."

"I don't trust Dooku whatsoever," Dormé spouted, causing Padmé and her cousin to look at her in bewilderment. "I'm sorry, Your Majesty, I didn't mean..."

She waved her hands dismissively while shaking her head. "No, it's alright. Please continue."

"I'll never forget his empty stare during the debate on Coruscant." Dormé added. "There was something cold about him."

"Remember, he was a Jedi." Padmé pointed out. "They tend to be stoic."

"But Master Kenobi and his student weren't like that," Cordé observed.

Padmé was about to comment further when a strange feeling suddenly came upon her. She took several steps away from her bodyguards as it urged her to hurry. It beckoned her. "We have to go."

"What?" Dormé asked.

"Something's wrong," she answered. "Follow me."

Before either handmaiden could protest, Padmé sprinted off as the cries for her help grew louder in her mind. Someone was in danger and needed her desperately. She was so focused on her objective that she didn't realize until she arrived there that she had left the Palace Square and was presently standing in front of the Great Temple. After a moment's hesitation, Padmé ran inside, despite Cordé's and Dormé's pleas to wait for them.

Running into the antechamber, she shielded her eyes as a bright, blue light filled the entire room. Padmé felt the hairs on her arms rise as a strange electricity danced through the air. She felt her handmaidens approaching, both wielding their blasters. "Don't shoot," she urged. "You'll destroy the Temple!"

"What is it?" Cordé cried out.

An instant later, the glow was gone. The air suddenly felt normal again. Padmé rubbed her eyes, trying to get them to adjust to the change. "What in Naboo just happened?" Dormé asked as she drew near.

"I...."

"Help me!"

Padmé turned to her cousin who nodded once. "I heard it too.

"Sounds like it was coming from inside the temple." Dormé pointed out.

"Help!"

The trio raced into the dimly lit, empty Temple. They paused, waiting for the muffled voice to cry out again, but only silence greeted them. Turning towards one another, Dormé offered, "Perhaps we've been a bit overanxious..."

"Helppp..." the voice moaned.

"Over there," Cordé pointed to the far left side.

The women sprinted to where they heard the pain-filled pleas. Each halted in place when they located its source. On the dark floor, they saw a woman in tattered clothing who appeared to have been severely beaten. She had several bleeding gashes across her face and was violently convulsing. Padmé knelt down to tend to her wounds. "It's okay. You're safe." Her eyes bulged when the women sat up and launched herself at her. "Where am I?"

Both Cordé and Dormé hurried over, pulling her off of Padmé. Unphased, Padmé immediately withdrew her comlink. "Yané, this is Padmé. Send your medics to the Great Temple at once."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Rising to her feet, while ignoring the stunned expressions of her handmaidens, Padmé whispered. "What happened to you, General Tro?"


It was finally time.

From his chair in the Council's chambers, Mace Windu surveyed the other Jedi as they watched him anxiously. He and Master Yoda had called this meeting after deciding it time to tell them about Skywalker. Not only was he alive and well, but the Force compelled them to comply with its wishes. Still, he had his doubts; not about what the Force compelled him to do; but, instead he was concerned about the other Masters' reactions. Change was coming. That was most certain.

The particulars would possibly be decided here and now.

"Master Yoda and I thank you for gathering under such mysterious circumstances." Windu glanced over at the aged Jedi who placidly nodded in agreement. "I must also apologize for the secrecy that must be maintained until decisions are made."

"Of course," Ki-Adi Mundi spoke for the others.

"I am sure you each have many questions after we all experienced the recent shift in the Force," he said calmly. "Let me first start by saying that it was not caused by the Sith." Mace paused to see a number of the others breathe a sigh of relief. "However, what was behind it may be equally disturbing to some of you."

"Alive, Anakin Skywalker is." Yoda announced without pretense.

A low murmur of discussion ensued before Windu continued, "Aside from the disturbance in the Force, we have also confirmed this through the Naboo embassy."

"What does that mean?" Ki-Adi Mundi asked with a hint of trepidation in his voice.

"For those of you who have served on the Council since the blockade crisis on Naboo, you are aware of part of the story. For our newer members, I believe it was common knowledge that Qui-Gon Jinn reported a vergence in the Force that surrounded Anakin Skywalker of Tatooine."

"The supposed Chosen One," Eeth Koth spat bitterly.

Mace dipped his head affirmatively. "What is not commonly known is that prior to returning from Master Jinn's funeral, both Master Yoda and I were visited by the Force itself."

"What do you mean by the Force… itself?" Luminara Unduli queried.

"Appear corporeal, the Force did." Master Yoda answered. "Told us its will concerning young Skywalker."

"That's....impossible," uttered Oppo Rancisis.

"Actually, it's not," countered Adi Gallia. "There are many documented encounters from ancient times."

"But if memory serves correctly," Plo Koon interjected. "Those who have seen the Force in the proverbial flesh.... rarely lived a charmed life."

Everyone's eyes shifted towards Mace, as well as Master Yoda. He too knew the legends—as they had caused him considerable unrest in the time that followed his encounter with the Force. He had finally reasoned that he couldn't change what had happened. It was the Force's will to make its presence known to them both. Who was he to question its motives?

"What exactly did the Force say?" Pablo-Jill asked skeptically, breaking the nervous silence.

Yoda turned his head, giving a subtle nod for Mace to continue. "As you know, we were not allowed to accept Skywalker for training. But, the Force urged young Obi-Wan Kenobi to secretly see to his initial training until the fabled Jedi Exile Ilianya Tro was called to continue with it."

"Why wasn't Kenobi kept under tighter scrutiny?" Pablo-Jill challenged.

Before either Mace or Yoda could speak up, the youngest of the Masters, Shaak Ti, interceded. "You heard it yourself, Master Jill. It was the will of the Force. Master Kenobi should bear no greater scrutiny for obeying its wishes. Quite the opposite, I would think."

"Be that as it may," Ki-Adi Mundi chimed in. "It was certainly not an easy decision to look the other way at the time….or even now."

Windu paused to look about the room. Although it had once again grown silent, he sensed the unease coming from several of the other Masters. Their unease was about to be magnified. "We were also instructed that when the time was right, Skywalker would come to help us bring the end to the Sith. In turn, we would help him bring balance to the Force."

"The Chosen One, Skywalker is."

The silence barely lasted a second. "That is outrageous!" Pablo-Jill shouted. "He is not one of us."

"The Chosen One must be a Jedi!" Ki-Adi Mundi added.

A smattering of discussion broke out as the Jedi debated with one another over the ramifications of Windu's declaration. He turned towards Yoda who sadly shook his head before shifting his gaze downward. Pounding on his gimer stick to get the room's attention, he said, "To become a Jedi, not what the Force wished for him. Need each other, we do."

"To what end?" Shaak Ti calmly asked.

After a momentarily glance over at Master Yoda, Mace responded, "We honestly don't know. The Force said nothing specific. Nor did the Force tell us the precise outcome of our…interaction with him. It did mention that only together will we fulfill our mutual destinies."

"Master Windu," called out Depa Billaba from across the room. "If I might suggest?" He wordlessly motioned for her to continue. "From everything you've told us, the choice seems clear. We should begin a dialogue with him. I believe we should extend an invitation to Skywalker to come before us. From there, the Force will guide us towards the right path."

Shaak Ti smiled as she leaned forward in her chair. "I agree with Master Billaba. Besides, he has learned the Force from an ancient. Not to mention that Skywalker supposedly died aboard Valkin Ord's ship. We all felt the shift in the Force. He may very well provide us with greater insights as to the true nature of the Force itself." She then sat back into her chair. "I can only see his presence aiding our understanding."

"But he is not a Jedi!" Eeth Koth again argued. "How do we know that his training hasn't been tainted?"

"So?" Adi Gallia responded with a frown. "Knowledge of the Force is not limited to only those who reside in this temple."

"But it's proper usage is," Master Unduli countered. "The Jedi Order does have the most experience in such matters."

Another round of argument broke out as the different Masters continued to defend their perspectives. Meanwhile, Master Yoda released a deep sigh. "Knew this would happen, I did. Narrow in vision, we are," he whispered to Mace.

About to bring the session back into order, Windu's chair com started flashing. Opening the channel, a small holographic image of a young Sullustian padawan appeared on the arm. "I beg your pardon for the interruption, but we are receiving a message from Master Kenobi. He said it's urgent."

Mace nodded. "Put it through, young one." He then loudly cleared his throat to gain the other Jedi's attention. "We are receiving a priority communication from Master Kenobi."

At that instant, in the center of the room, a life sized facsimile of the young Jedi appeared. He bowed respectfully as he waited for them to address him. "News you bring, Master Obi-Wan?" Yoda asked.

He slowly nodded "Following clues we obtained from Ord's castle, we proceeded to the planet Kamino beyond the Outer Rim. The Kaminoans specialize in cloning and were supposedly commissioned by Master Sifo-Dyas to create a clone army for the Republic."

The members of the Council looked at one another in apparent shock. Meanwhile, Windu asked, "Clones, did you say?"

"Three hundred thousand troops stand ready with more than three million on the way." Obi-Wan paused briefly, giving a strange look at the Masters in the room. "Begging your pardon, Master, but was this approved by the Council?"

"Approval of the Council, Sifo-Dyas had not." Yoda answered. "Disturbing this news is."

"What more have you learned of Jango Fett?" Mace asked.

"He was the template used for the construction of the clone army. The Kaminoans had been providing him housing here, but he left long before Jaden and I arrived. However, we have learned that he and his...son… have fled to the Onderonian moon of Dxun."

Turning towards Yoda, Windu suggested, "Fett may know of Sifo-Dyas' whereabouts."

The diminutive Grand Master dipped his head in agreement. Looking up at Obi-Wan, he instructed, "Imperative finding Fett is. Bring him before us, you must."

"Understood, Master." Obi-Wan agreed. "Given the history of Dxun, it is highly likely that we will require assistance."

"Understood," Windu said coolly. He loathed doing this, but the Jedi were required to follow Republic law. "We must first apprise the Chancellor of the situation. In the meantime, continue with your mission. Should you encounter significant resistance, do not hesitate to withdraw."

"I understand, Master." Obi-Wan acknowledged. "We shall get underway shortly."

"May the Force be with you both," Yoda bade him farewell.

"And with you, Master."

It only took a brief second after Kenobi's image to disappear before the Council's chamber erupted into chaotic chatter. Mace had to admit to himself that he was blindsided by the report. How could they not have foreseen the creation of a clone army? What would this mean to an already tense galaxy? The incessant tapping of Master Yoda's gimer stick immediately brought him back to the moment.

"Much, we have to consider," Yoda finally said after the room calmed down. "Go at once, we will, to the Supreme Chancellor. Prepare to help Master Obi-Wan, we shall."

"How did this happen?" Adi Gallia blurted out.

"Time for that, it is not. Mindful of the present circumstances, we must remain." Master Yoda calmly replied.

The other members seemed to be in agreement. To Mace's surprise, none of the other Masters asked about Skywalker. Then again, they had been presented with a problem greater than that of the Chosen One.

The will of the Force was mysterious indeed.

TBC-Thoughts, comments and suggestions are always welcomed and appreciated!