Chapter: 42 From the Ashes

"Failure is never final."

Conspiracy on Coruscant! Sinister forces linger in the city's shadows with an unseen plan in motion. While "loose ends" were dealt with, a wild shootout revealed two assassins as members of the conspiracy. Their escape has prompted a rigorous, citywide manhunt by the Coruscant Guard. While the city remains gripped in fear, the Republic's heroes find themselves shrouded in defeat. From war-torn Felucia to losses in the capital, both Jedi and clones must find a way to move forward...

For over a thousand generations, the Republic Naval Academy had served as a symbol of power to countless systems. Some of the Old Republic's greatest legends had studied within its historic walls. Even as the Republic found itself engulfed in another war, the academy still maintained its reputation of nurturing promising students. Today, its grandiose lecture hall was graced with one of the most prestigious admirals in Republic naval history. This guest speaker had been battling pirates and slavers long before he'd ever set foot on a Venator. His expertise had earned him a reputation many could only dream of. As the naval commander of Anakin Skywalker's fleet, Admiral Wullf Yularen understood the amount of responsibility resting on his shoulders. When he looked across the audience of prospective leaders, he reminded himself to speak truthfully. According to Yularen's philosophy, words were like ships. Neither should be used unless their full potential could be realized.

"To lead is to accept a responsibility like no other," the mustachioed admiral said. His bold, blue eyes swayed over the students as he recalled his own experiences. "Make no mistake, you will lose troops. You will lose battles. But these hardships will make a great admiral stronger, for there is no victory without sacrifice. You must remember what you're fighting for and steady your resolve based on those thoughts. No matter the conflict, a calm mind is key." Yularen flipped a switch on his handheld remote and the screen behind him showed a virtual space battle. "Here we have a Venator severely outnumbered by enemy ships. The hyperdrive has been damaged and is preventing any escape to lightspeed." He gestured to his youthful audience. "You are the admiral aboard this Venator. As the enemy closes in on your disabled vessel, its crew looks to you for answers. What shall you do?" Several hands shot up from the audience and cadets were eager to share their thoughts with Admiral Yularen. "When called, state your name before proceeding."

Yularen pointed a finger towards a young woman in the front row. As one of the few non-humans in the entire academy, this Zygerrian already had a target on her back. The ferocious gunfight perpetrated by one of her people last night had only made things harder for her. Still, this Zygerrian cared not for petty side-eyes and muttered gossip. She was there to be her own person and serve the Republic through her own talents. Her fellow cadets watched as she stood confidently to address the Yularen. "Cadet Amelia Tomz," the Zygerrian said. Her bright green eyes scoured the diagram as she discussed her strategy. "With my hyperdrive damaged, aid must be signaled effective immediately. At this point, it is about the preservation of life. I would jettison all nonessential crew through the escape pods and cover their escape. If it means dying for them, so be it. I could only hope that those efforts would not be in vain and that the aid I summoned would rescue the escapees."

Yularen raised his brows and nodded at her response. "A noble strategy indeed." Yularen picked another cadet. "Yes. The young gentleman in the third row."

The youth who'd been chosen was tall and held himself in equally high esteem. "Cadet Jay Norrington," he introduced himself in a deep and commanding voice. One would've thought he was already giving orders across a bridge. "While I agree with Cadet Tomz' beliefs on preserving life, I think that also includes those of my own onboard. The trick here is to delay the enemy until the hyperdrive is repaired. To accomplish this, I would maximize power to the shield generator until it's fixed. Once the hyperdrive is back online, I'd rocket us out of the system so we could fight again another day."

Yularen hummed in thought. "You put great trust in your shields, cadet. But can they repel fire of this magnitude?" He pointed towards the amount of enemy ships and had Jay second-guessing himself. Yularen's eyes wandered to a third hand. "Ah yes, you there."

The young cadet rose proudly, ready to serve his Republic. His stern-brown eyes focused on Yularen as he saluted him. "Admiral Wullf Yularen," he said. His fellow cadets were initially confused, thinking that this was how he was introducing himself. "It is an honor to meet you and I thank you for taking time from war duties to speak with us. I am Cadet Ozwon Shang." He'd only said his name and Yularen was already thinking of his prestigious father. The admiral's eyes lit up with intrigue as the young man continued. Shang's voice was calm and earnest as he relayed his plan. "Some may see the situation you've presented as a lost cause. Others will claim that it's avoidable altogether. But this is a fight that anyone who serves in the army knows is inevitable. It's a...last stand of sorts. With my hyperdrive disabled, the enemy is seeking to break my spirit. For us, I'm just commanding one of thousands of star destroyers. But to my foes, destroying my Venator has symbolic repercussions. My ship represents the might of our glorious Republic and I will not see that reputation ravaged in a moment of weakness."

"Then, Cadet Shang-" Admiral Yularen inquired. "What will you do?"

"All hands on deck," Shang affirmed. "I scramble all fighters and ready my cannons. Cornered on all sides, my Venator goes down fighting. For if we are to die, we die with honor. And whether they see our faces or not, our enemies will never forget that moment. By the end of the battle, I would've taken so many of them down with me that the enemy would think twice about attacking a fellow star destroyer. In losing my life, I would've saved others."

"Another noble strategy," Yularen admitted and looked to the cadets who'd responded. "In truth, each of you provided a piece to this problematic puzzle. Cadet Tomz, those jettisoned in escape pods would not make it very far. After your ship was destroyed, they would be hunted down before aid would arrive. However, you were right to signal for help. Cadet Norrington, raising your shields is a brilliant temporary solution. The amount of enemy ships would decimate your shields and put you in a worse situation. It'd be unwise to put full attention on repairing the hyperdrive in this predicament as well. You are on track with your defensive measures though." Yularen huffed and turned to Shang. "Honorable deaths are never forgotten, cadet. But they are still avoidable. You are right to view the Venator from a symbolic perspective as one should always respect their ship, but there is no need for such sacrifice. So here's how the pieces fit." Yularen pressed a button as a new diagram emerged. "First, we call for help immediately. With our hyperdrive damaged, our best bet is to hold out until Republic aid arrives. If we power up the shields, this gives us a temporary defensive measure. Combine this with Cadet Shang's idea to scramble fighters and you have a solid safeguard." Several other Venators flew into the the diagram and protected the damaged vessel. "Then you'll be able to hold your own until help arrives."

"And if help doesn't arrive?" Norrington inquired with a raised hand.

Yularen sighed. "It's in those moments, young cadet, that an admiral must make the most...creative decisions. The kind that either make or break who you are. But I tell all of you this. Do not go seeking death, students. Do not look to those who have rammed their ships into others out of sheer desperation and think 'That's what all admirals should be doing.' Preserve life where you can, for you are meant to lead. Your Republic needs you alive and no amount of fame nor infamy is worth anything else. You should only be a hero to your crew and most of all, to yourself. Thank you for your time, and I'll see you among the stars."

The presentation ended and one of the teachers came on stage. "Students," she announced. "Admiral Wullf Yularen." The auditorium applauded as he bowed respectfully and departed. The cadets poured out of the chamber feeling reinvigorated and inspired.

Shang had made his way to the nearest balcony when Amelia approached him. "Well, my friend," she said. "It looks like Admiral Yularen's found an easy solution for us. Clearly you, Jay and I just need to all be aboard the same vessel. Then we'd be an unstoppable team."

"How many times must I tell you," their friend jested. "Call me Norrington. Jay sounds too-" he grimaced at his first name while Amelia and Shang snickered.

"Clearly he's getting ready for when he'll be commanding a Venator," Shang jested.

"Can you blame me?" Norrington asked. "We'll be graduating before you know it and by the look of things, this war's far from over."

Shang's smile faltered when he noticed Amelia's wandering eyes. Several cadets were glaring at her as they trudged by. She was used to humans gossiping about her at the academy, but things had only worsened since the CoCo Town shootout. "Amelia?" Shang worried. "Are you alright?"

"I will be," she assured. "I'm grateful, really...to have friends like you two. You're the only humans who've never sneered at me when I pass them by!" she raised her voice and directed her attention to a staring cadet. "That's the thing about bigotry. The bigots think we don't notice, but we always do."

"I'm...sorry," Shang said.

Amelia shrugged. "Don't be. It's not your fault my race decided to enslave millions for thousands of years. But it's not my fault either, so I have every right to live freely in this Republic and make a new name for myself. Amelia certainly isn't a Zygerrian forename."

"For what it's worth," Norrington said. "I think your devotion to the Republic will see you through any hardship. And you'll always have us if anyone here gives you trouble."

"Oh I know," Amelia chuckled. "Only, try not to break anymore noses over me like you did last year. I was afraid you'd be kicked out."

The surrounding cadets suddenly broke out into a series of hasty whispers. Amidst the hushed and urgent blathering, the word "Jedi" escaped several lips.

Shang raised his brows and leaned over the balcony. He and his friends watched as an older Jedi Master entered the academy. "I was unaware there'd be another speaker today," Norrington muttered.

"There isn't," Amelia whispered. She nervously bit her lip and watched the Jedi talk to several teachers. "I think he's looking for someone."

"Who would the Jedi be searching for?" Shang asked.

"Put it together," Amelia huffed. "It's the same species profiling that occurs every time there's a threatening incident. A Zygerrian was reported to be shooting up the Collective Commerce District. We're not a common race to be calling the Republic home. Because of such, I'll likely be questioned even though I have no affiliation with that terrorist." Amelia sighed. "While I know I've done nothing wrong, in case they don't believe me-"

"Amelia," Norrington insisted.

"If I am taken away-" she persisted. "Just know that I've appreciated our friendships very much." Her heart sank when one of the teachers pointed up to them. Amelia's hands gripped the railing until her knuckles shook. Her feline ears pivoted as the Jedi Master reached their floor.

"With all due respect," Norrington intervened before anyone could utter a word. "If Amelia is to be questioned, we all should be. She is always spending time with us and-"

The Jedi's genuine confusion had Norrington quieting down. Rather than focus on Amelia at all, he instead looked to her other friend. "Cadet Ozwon Shang?" the Jedi inquired.

"That's me, yes," Shang assured.

"I am Jedi Master Mattias. I must speak with you in private." Shang looked to his friends before cautiously leaving with Mattias. They found a secluded verandah on the academy's third level and felt a gentle breeze caress their faces.

"How can I help, Master Jedi?" Shang asked.

Mattias took a deep breath as he looked into the cadet's innocent, brown eyes. He clenched his fists as he struggled to find the right words. "Young man, I've just returned from combat in the Thanium Sector."

Shang swallowed hard and his brows furrowed while reading Mattias' emotion. "That's...where my father's stationed," he realized. "Is he alright?" Mattias silence answered the youth's question for him. "No," Shang uttered. "We just spoke. We speak every other night and he sends me the latest updates from his ventures. He was..."

"Your father was responding to the same distress signal that as I," Mattias answered somberly. "But during the battle over Felucia...he-" Mattias pursed his lips. "Your father fought so bravely and was in command until the-"

Shang nearly lost his balance and had to grip a vase. "He's gone?" he whispered.

"Yes," Mattias murmured and hung his head. "I'm sorry, young man."

"How did he die?" Shang asked while trying to manage his breathing.

"It was during the battle against a dreadnought," Mattias replied.

"But how," Shang insisted. "Please." Though his eyes reddened in anguish, a single tear did not escape them. "Do not lie to me, Master Jedi."

Mattias huffed as his own heart raced. "There was a Mandalorian saboteur aboard his vessel who bombed the bridge and other vital systems. If I care to imagine your father's passing, it was quick and-"

"Dishonorable," Shang muttered. His lower lip quivered while he shook his head. "Did you...kill the coward who did it?"

"He took his own life," Mattias said.

"Was the mission at least a success?" The Jedi's continued silence had Shang surging forward. "Or did my father die for nothing?" A tear rolled down Shang's cheek and he hurriedly scrubbed it away.

Mattias' own remorse returned as he recalled Savil dying in his arms. No amount of mantra recitation could keep his emotional attachments at bay as he sighed. "While the Jedi Master was killed and her base was lost, several clones were saved."

"Oh good," Shang replied sarcastically. "At least the copies made it out."

Although he recognized that Shang was speaking out of grief, Mattias couldn't control his own defensiveness. "Cadet, no one can ever replace your father and I am so sorry for your loss...but those troopers have also suffered. They are men and your father's efforts are part of the reason they can live to fight another day. They initially wanted a teacher to deliver this news to you, but I believed you'd prefer to hear it from someone who was there."

Shang huffed and nodded respectfully. "Thank you, Master Jedi. I meant nothing against the surviving clones. I just hope it was all worth it. I feel like my father still had so much more time ahead of him. He had a legacy to keep building and the Republic Navy won't ever be the same without him."

"I know none of this could possibly be easy for you right now," Mattias said. "But your father's legacy isn't over. He had you, Cadet Shang. You can still honor that heritage."

"How?" Shang asked. "How can I possibly measure up to a legend like him?"

"Become your own legend," Mattias suggested.

Shang remained confused and asked yet again. "But how?"

Mattias took a moment to answer. He used the Force to sense what kind of ambitious person Shang was beneath his current grief. Mattias softly smiled and said, "You might not see it, but you already know how. It's just a matter of taking that first step." Mattias bowed to Shang. "The Force will be with you, cadet. Always."

Mattias' departure had Shang hastily wiping his tears. With a hard sniffle, he marched back downstairs to find his concerned friends. "Shang," Amelia inquired. "What was that about?" He simply pat her and Norrington's shoulders before proceeding to their library. Shang didn't speak to anyone as he collected multiple holobooks on naval strategy. He found a secluded seat in the library's furthest recesses...and got to work.

It was only morning and Mattias' resolve had already been tested. Breaking the news to Shang was something he wanted to do personally, but he realized it heralded the rough day he had ahead of him. Back at the temple, the Jedi Master's next stop would be Savil's inevitable funeral. He stood alongside countless members of the Order as they thought on the fallen Jedi's life. The ceremony was incredibly odd and at times uncomfortable for Mattias. To stand amidst those preaching zero emotional connection at a funeral seemed like the definition of hypocrisy. Master Yoda spoke of celebrating life and refused to mourn anything, making Mattias feel unsure about appearing sad. But somber is all the master felt as he watched a white veil get placed over Savil's body. She rested atop an ancient pedestal in the temple's ceremonial crypt. The Jedi stood in silence as she was slowly lowered into her final resting place. As her tomb's golden doors sealed, a bright beam of energy shot from the floor. The light was said to symbolize one's energy becoming part of the Cosmic Force. But even such a melancholy visual didn't bring Mattias much solace.

"First her apprentice and now her," Jedi Master Beetra grieved. The Aqualish sulked and joined Ithorian Master Kalia. "What is this galaxy coming to?" she asked.

Mattias loathed seeing so many broken spirits. Beetra and Kalia had lost their Padawans in the Scarif attack as well. He couldn't bear the thought of two more masters falling as Savil had. His saddened thoughts simmered when a woman's hand gripped his shoulder. He glanced at her crimson skin and turned to see Master Shaak Ti. "I didn't expect to see you here," Mattias admitted.

"I still come to the temple from time to time," Ti replied. "Especially when I hear about something happening to one of our own."

"Too much of that is occurring as of late," Mattias murmured.

"How is your Padawan?" Ti asked.

"The high-spirited Anna you met on Kamino is not the same Anna you'd see today," Mattias admitted. "She's struggling, Shaak Ti, and I need to find a way to bring her back. Now there's the clones Savil's entrusted to me, all of which are broken in their own ways."

Shaak Ti hummed in thought. "Heed these words from someone who spends her days overseeing clones. Do not underestimate their resilience. Whether it seems like it or not, each of them is precisely where they need to be. Sometimes I look to the next group of rising troopers for inspiration. Their powerful resolves give me hope on some of my hardest days."

"Hope," Mattias whispered as an idea sparked within. He looked to Shaak Ti with widened eyes and slowly smiled. "I know what I have to do, but I'm going to need your help."

Blasterfire echoed throughout the council chamber as the highest ranking members of the Order remained observant. A flickering hologram of a Mandalorian warrior fired several shots before launching his jetpack-mounted missile into the unknown. "This footage was recovered from the Typhoon's security feed," Mattias explained to the council. "How this Mandalorian got aboard the Venator remains unknown, but I believe he was not in league with Fenn Rau and his Protectors."

"I second his claim," Shaak Ti said from her seat. "I have witnessed Rau's devotion to our Republic and its soldiers on Kamino firsthand. The Mandalorian in this hologram must come from a different faction."

"With all due respect," Master Ki-Adi-Mundi said. "We so often bestow too much credit upon these Mandalorians. While they disperse into clans and houses, we mustn't forget that they are a ceaselessly warring people. My former apprentice was right to bring this footage to us." Mattias nodded to his old master as Mundi continued. "We may have another Mandalorian incursion on our hands."

"Or perhaps he acted alone," Master Obi-wan Kenobi considered. "I've spent a great deal of time on Mandalore. They've abandoned their warrior ways as of late and have adopted a pacifistic approach. But that doesn't stop individuals from seeking other opportunities. This saboteur could've been in league with the Separatists just as Jango Fett was."

The council members exchanged pensive stares until Master Yoda spoke up. "A possibility that is. But the true intentions, in the shadows they remain." He lifted his cane and pointed towards Obi-wan. "Master Kenobi, to Mandalore you will go. A history with its duchess and her diplomacy you possess. Investigate this Mandalore plot you will."

Obi-wan nodded and prepared to rise from his seat. "I can leave effective immediately," he affirmed.

"Master Mattias," Master Mace Windu said. "Your efforts to retrieve this information and rescue those on Felucia are...commendable."

Mattias concealed a smile and bowed to Windu. "Thank you," he said. "I couldn't have done it without the assistance of the 213th Battalion." As Mattias raised his head, he glanced at Shaak Ti and chose to reveal his plan. "Masters of the Jedi Council. While I am grateful to be of service, Master Savil's death should serve as a lesson to all of us. She enlisted to join in the Felucian conflict because she was trying to fill a void. One that only occurs with the death of a Padawan. Several survivors from the Scarif attack continue to struggle with their recovery. I've seen it with my own apprentice. And while we must be mindful of our attachments, we cannot abandon our own to fate."

"A proposition have you?" Yoda inquired.

Mattias nodded. "My apprentice has the potential to become one of the finest knights in this Order. I say has because I refuse to give up on her. Anna needs her master's support now more than ever." Mattias chuckled. "I mean, at her age...how many of us could say we'd found the cure for a pandemic and won a tournament shortly after?" Several council members leaned in with genuine curiosity. "With your blessing, I wish to take Anna's situation into my own hands. I want to embark on a mission of redemption for her. One of which she can only emerge stronger from."

"Anna Dellian posseses immense strength," Ti added. "I have seen her tenacity on Kamino and the strong bond she can develop with clone soldiers. If Mattias succeeds, Padawan Dellian could become a vital Jedi General once she reaches knighthood. If Mattias can get her through to this stage, her efforts could turn the tide and help bring a swift end to this war."

"In turn," Mattias said. "My actions would contribute to Anna's Jedi Trials. The way I see it, we have an opportunity to nurture this young and fractured mind. If we don't...if I don't, we risk losing a promising Jedi Knight."

"If anyone can help pull her from the darkness, it's Mattias." Mundi confirmed. While the Cerean had become a master of few words, he only spoke when he felt they'd be most meaningful. He knew what his former apprentice was capable of and had the utmost confidence in him.

The council members looked to one another until all eyes fell on Yoda. Mattias remained steadfast in his decision and grinned at Shaak Ti. "Redemption," Yoda said. "Forgiveness. Strength. Unbrokenness. Qualities of a true Jedi these are. Believe in your Padawan, you must. Take her from the temple and resume your training. But above all, harness the Force. Through it, possible all things will be, yes." Yoda bowed his head and his pointy ears twitched. "The council's blessing you have."

The Halls of Healing were bustling with medical personnel hard at work. Mattias weaved between Jedi doctors and their droid assistants as they tended to their patients. Amidst the frenzied labor, he couldn't help but overhear the dreadful broadcast from a wall-mounted datascreen. "The citywide search for two gunmen is underway after a shooting in Coruscant's Collective Commerce District last night," a reporter said. "If anyone has any information regarding these suspects, contact the Coruscant Guard immediately." Mattias grimaced as pixelated footage of a Zygerrian and Umbaran flashed across the screen. The news channel showed laser-riddled sidewalks, burnt speeders, and crumbling homes. The sight of a frightened, Twi'lek family prompted feelings of unease and anger within Mattias.

"And I thought we had it rough," a clone grumbled. Mattias turned to see a trooper resting in one of the beds. He regretfully was unable to distinguish which clone he was. All Mattias could sense was that he'd met the man before. He waited patiently and hoped someone would bring up his name. The clone struggled to keep watching the news when his doctor continued to stitch. "Ouch!" he winced.

"Please hold still," his Jedi doctor answered. "I'm almost finished Lieutenant Sparx."

Sparx, Mattias thought and remembered his trip to Kamino. "You were one of the clone cadets from Gold Squad," he said aloud.

Sparx's eyes widened with realization. "Darth Mattias?"

His Jedi doctor's brows furrowed in confusion until Mattias explained. "It was for a training exercise, Dr. Nema," he chuckled. The yellow-skinned Jedi humored him with a smirk and finished stitching Sparx's arm. "How are you holding up?" he asked.

"I've seen better days," Sparx admitted. "I think we all have, sir."

"Where's Sergeant Blazer?" Mattias inquired.

Sparx glowered. "He luckily had only a couple of scrapes on him and was requested by high command. For his efforts on Felucia, he's to be made into an ARF trooper."

Mattias raised a brow. "Do you mean ARC trooper?"

"No sir. Advanced Recon Force trooper. Their much stealthier and used to carry out surprise attacks." Sparx sighed. "But it doesn't matter anyway. He went AWOL before accepting any promotion." Sparx scoffed. "Accepting...As if we clones have a choice."

"What?" Mattias blurted. "He just left?"

"General Savil's death hit'em pretty hard, sir. He-"

"It hit all of us pretty damn hard," Mattias fired back. His raised voice caught the attention of doctors and patients alike. "That man is my responsibility. You all are. Where is your other brother?"

Sparx found comfort in hearing Mattias refer to them as brothers. "85 used to be in the bed next to mine, but they had to take him into surgery. Some Sheparr guy was-" He noticed Mattias huffing and leaned forward. "Do you know him?"

"Yeah," Mattias replied. "Can you walk?"

Sparx and Mattias traversed the Halls of Healing and made it to Der Sheparr's surgical chambers. Whirring machinery and advanced medical droids followed his orders as he oversaw his patient. "Dr. Sheparr," Mattias called.

Sheparr smiled upon hearing the familiar voice and slowly turned. The Jedi doctor's durasteel saber hilt swayed with his medical robes and he extended a hand. "Master Mattias," he said. "You're just in time for our friend here to wake up." Mattias and Sparx kept their distance as 85 started to stir. The clone's eyes listed across the overhanging lights and focused on Dr. Sheparr. "How are you feeling?"

"D-...different," 85 uttered. "Numb...yet, smooth."

"You're still the same person," Sheparr assured. "There's just been some changes that you'll need to get used to."

"Wait," 85 gasped. "I-I can feel my legs. Doctor, I can move my-" 85 bit back any further excitement as he listened to gears turning. The sound of wires powering up and synthesizing into place had him nervous to look down.

"Trooper 9185," Sheparr lamented. "Unfortunately, your legs had sustained an irreparable amount of damage and we had to amputate. But thanks to the innovations of cybernetics, I was able to create new ones for you." 85 peered down at a set of metallic appendages extending from his thighs. "They are custom-shaped durasteel alloy. The same material my lightsaber and countless warships are made of. In a way, it's like you'll always have a set of armor on you now."

"But...I can walk?"

"You can walk," Sheparr grinned. 85's fears fleeted as he slid to the side of the bed. Mattias and Sparx rushed to his sides when he tried to quickly rise. Having rushed his recovery process, 85 toppled over and the duo had to grab him. "Give it time," Sheparr said. "But you'll get there."

"Thank you doctor," 85 sighed and admired his cybernetic legs. "I thought I was done for."

"As long as there's life," Sheparr replied. "There's always a chance. Now you'll have challenges along the way. Despite the cybernetic's connection to your body, you may still experience instances of phantom limb and other side effects."

"It's the side effects that often get you," Mattias couldn't resist murmuring.

Sheparr read his tone and said, "Master Mattias. Would you like to have a word?" he asked and gestured to his office.

Mattias took the offer and followed Sheparr. "You never mentioned how often my cybernetic would be malfunctioning," he said.

Sheparr squinted. "Malfunctioning? Or do you mean realigning?"

"I view them as the same problem. I'm grateful that you were able to get me walking again just as you helped 85. But are those legs going to give out on him too?"

"Now hold on," Sheparr intoned. "Cybernetic limbs are evolving every day. Spinal additions are still relatively new territory. When this cybernetic malfunctions, are you in combat?" Mattias nodded and Sheparr sighed. "It wasn't meant to withstand such rigorous activities. Perhaps my droids and I can create something from a durasteel alloy. A cybernetic that can withstand any stress you're putting on it."

"I'd very much appreciate that, Dr. Sheparr." Mattias replied.

Sheparr smiled and activated his datapad for research. "Then what are we waiting for? I'll get to work, but try not to jeopardize your health in the meantime."

No promises, Mattias joked to himself before departing.

"It's a beautiful day to save lives," Sheparr mumbled while drafting new ideas.

85 tried standing up slowly while Sparx held his arm. He cautiously rolled his ankle and marveled over the metallic limb. "Maybe I am supposed to be alive," 85 said.

Mattias returned to the clones and asked, "How do you feel about trying to walk with those? You boys are my responsibility now and we've got to find Blazer. But first, there's someone I'm long overdue to see."

Rapunzel Crin sat at Anna's bedside and braided her hair. The bed-ridden Padawan wouldn't even look at her and plunged her face into the pillow. "How do you feel about...pigtails?" Rapunzel queried.

Anna didn't reply. This time by choice as she stared at the blank and bleak wall before her. The weight of her pain and errors kept her pinned against the mattress under one insidious word: Failure. Before Rapunzel could speak again, Anna hunched forward and reclaimed her unbraided hair. The knight shuddered and looked over her depressed patient. Anna hugged herself tightly as a mental barrage of self-deprecation plagued her from within. Her grip softened as a familiar voice spoke between the curtains.

"Anna," Mattias said. She heard Rapunzel shift out of the way as he sat on her bedside. He started several sentences before reconsidering what to say next. With a heavy sigh, he finally continued. "I am so sorry. I never should've left you, Padawan. I thought that...I was doing what was best."

"I thought we were stronger together," Anna whispered and clenched her shoulders. "But when you left, I realized how alone I really was. Everyone was moving on and I had to do something. If I didn't, no one would. There was a whole murder mystery going on here in Coruscant. A damn conspiracy, master, and who knows how far up it goes? I really thought I could make a difference after everything I'd gone through, but I was wrong."

"No," Mattias asserted while Anna shook her head.

"Don't deny it," she sniffled.

"After what you've been through-"

"This isn't just about the kidnapping!" Anna snapped and finally spun around. She bolted upright and sat to face Mattias. "I engaged one of the killers and I didn't just lose...I ran. Why? Because I'm broken. I'm not the same person I was. I failed, master. I failed so miserably that there's no possible way to come back from this." She hung her head and let the tears flow down her freckled cheeks. Mattias looked to the clones and Rapunzel beside him before placing his hands on Anna.

"Hey," he said. "Now I know I taught you better than this, Padawan. What have I always said about failure?"

Anna bit her lip as she remembered his words. "Trandoshans can hiss it to you..."

"Wookies can snarl it to you..." Mattias continued.

"Gundarks can howl it to you," Anna added.

"But don't you ever..."

"Ever."

"Speak...failure over yourself," Anna concluded.

Mattias smiled softly after she recalled the mantra. "These are dark times, Anna," he said. "But you are not alone and I'm not going anywhere this time. None of us are." He gestured to the clones behind him and stood up proudly. "It's time to rise from these ashes together. The council has given me its blessing to embark on a mission of redemption."

As Anna observed those around her, she recounted Jee's words when things seemed darkest on Rodia. "Sometimes you can't see the future and that's okay. In those moments, all you can do is the next right thing."

To Rapunzel's astonishment, Anna vaulted out of bed and embraced her master. "Let's go for it," the Padawan said. "I've missed you so much."

"With your blessing," Rapunzel spoke to Mattias. "I wish to join you. With so many still recovering, you could use a Jedi Healer on your journey."

Mattias looked to his smiling apprentice and nodded to Rapunzel. "We'd be honored. But before we embark, there's a bit of a situation."

"Oh?" Rapunzel and Anna jinxed each other.

"Remember that clone sergeant from Kamino?" Mattias said.

"Sergeant Blazer?" Anna's eyes lit up with curiosity. "He's here?"

"He was anyway. He's gone off on his own but he too is my responsibility. I want everyone to fan out and check the Halls of Healing before we broaden our search."

As the group scoured the patient halls, Anna noticed a familiar name on one of the recovery rooms and dipped in. She made sure no one saw her and glanced at Hans from his stable condition. The Jedi Knight's face was heavily bandaged and covered in bruises from where he'd been bludgeoned. A nearby monitor revealed he'd soon be placed in a bacta tank for healing doses. After double-checking for any witnesses, Anna caressed Hans' face.

"Wha-" he murmured through his wounds. "Who's...there?" Someone who loves you, Anna thought to say. But how could she when she didn't even understand that concept? Realizing she'd been watching far too many holodramas, she instead planted a light kiss on his cheek. His swollen eyes could hardly open as he whispered, "Anna."

It pained her to see him so injured and she ran her fingers through his hair. "Oh Hans," she said. "I'm so sorry. The bacta's going to help you. Trust me, that stuff works wonders. I'll probably be heading out soon, but I'll be thinking about you every step of the way."

"Where are you going?" Hans muttered.

"I'm not sure yet. But I have a feeling it's for the best. When I come back, things'll be better. Just please stay safe."

"The witness...the kid."

Anna bit her lip. "He ran away during the fight. Authorities are looking for him but there hasn't been any luck."

"Damn it, Dumbo." Hans groaned. "If those men find out that Ortolan knows something...they'll kill him."

"I won't let that happen," Anna asserted. "We won't. But we have to get better first. We can't help anyone if we're not okay." Anna's heart sank when she heard Mattias calling for her down the hall. "I have to go. Until next time." She quickly leaned in and placed a tender kiss on his lips. Hans leaned back into his pillow and sighed as she departed.

"Sorry about the wait," Anna mumbled. "I was...checking the rooms for Blazer."

"Don't bother," Mattias scoffed. "I don't think he's come back and I think Sparx here knows more than he's letting on."

The lieutenant gulped and backed up as the Jedi closed in. "They were very close back on Kamino," Anna mentioned.

"Blazer already told you a lot about his potential promotion," Mattias added and sweat trickled from the lieutenant's brow. "Sparx, if you know more...you need to come clean. Do you realize what kind of trouble your sergeant is in for if he's gone AWOL? If he isn't found by us, he will be arrested and court-martialed. The consequences only worsen from there and-"

"79's!" Sparx blurted.

Mattias and Anna exchanged perplexed stares. "79's?" he asked. "Is that another clone?"

"It's a clone bar," 85 explained.

All eyes were on Sparx as he continued. "None of us on Felucia had ever been, but word gets around. 79's was something to keep us dreaming at night after the daily hell we'd witnessed. Blazer and I used to say we'd go there if we ever made it to Coruscant. If he's lost thinking his life's over, that's where he'd be."

Coruscant's vibrant clubs were anything but quiet during the day. Most of them never closed and endured ceaseless waves of party-eager patrons. 79's was no different as Mattias flew his speeder to a curb. Anna slid from the passenger seat and pressed her face against the window. The bar's fiery red signage flashed across the glass and painted her face in its glow. The last time Anna had been to the Uscru entertainment district, she'd caused quite a ruckus. She recalled how Club Dazzle-Daze was where she was almost captured for slavery and how a similar situation still occurred. It was also where she'd first encountered 'The Bug' and she hoped Jee was safe...wherever she was.

Unlike Dazzle-Daze, 79's was no mere haven tucked away in Coruscant's recesses. It was a two-story spectacle complete with upbeat music, tremendous advertising...and drunk customers. 85 and Sparx observed from their windows as Mattias exited the vehicle. "Is it the paradise you hoped for?" the Jedi asked.

Sparx's eyes listed from the extravagant structure to the reality of those attending. There was something about seeing intoxicated clones that left him feeling uneasy. These men, his brothers, stumbled across the street with bottles in their hands. They chuckled to one another and several toppled over. Some of the non-clone patrons laughed alongside them while others even filmed their inebriated behavior. "This is going on the HoloNet, man!" an Umbaran teenager chortled.

Sparx shook his head and answered, "Honestly sir, no. This behavior's disgraceful and these clones should be ashamed of themselves."

"They're just blowing off steam," Anna interjected. "We don't know what they've been through."

"But we do know what they represent," Sparx retorted. "We're supposed to be the men you see on posters, not the drunkards on some shaky HoloNet video."

"Like the Jedi-" 85 added. "-we have an image, Anna. And we clones have to protect it, even when others won't." She thought on his words while watching him limp up to the door. 85 was still growing accustomed to his cybernetics, but he strived to correct his posture. Three clones paused from chugging their drinks and watched their brother hobble forward. With a stern, determined glare, 85 was nearly to the door. Anna gasped when his right leg gave out and he collapsed on the pavement.

The drunk trio of officers howled with a resounding "OH!" and laughed amongst each other.

"85!" Anna shouted and slid to his side. "Are you alright?"

"Fine," he grumbled and examined his cybernetics.

"Aren't you a little young to be dating one of us, sweetie?" one of the officers guffawed.

Anna's anger got the best of her as she helped him up. She was about to fire back when Sparx could no longer contain his fury. "You watch your mouth," the lieutenant scolded. "You're talking to a Jedi, you drunken fool."

"Jedi?" the dizzied officer hiccuped and smiled. "I don't see no lightsaber. You're just trying to cover for your squadmate's girlfriend and-"

"That is enough," Mattias defended while Rapunzel stood at his side. If their robes couldn't permeate the drunkards' haze, their shining hilts would. "Unless you want to take this up with Republic command, I suggest you and your friends call it a night."

One of the drunks scoffed and ushered his partners away. "Yes sir," he groaned and exaggerated a salute.

Anna helped 85 up and he angrily smacked his legs. The cybernetics clanged while he huffed in frustration. "Hey," Anna assured. "You got pretty far without falling. You'll get it, you just need...time."

"Thanks," 85 muttered and smiled faintly.

Rapunzel grinned after hearing Anna comfort the clone. She felt like the wisdom she'd acquired as a Jedi Healer could continue through Anna and only strengthen her connection to those hurting. Her peace was short-lived when she noticed a set of red-armored clone troopers patrolling the curb. "Something tells me they're not here for the music," she told Mattias.

He followed Rapunzel's finger to the clones of the Coruscant Guard. The troopers pivoted towards the Umbaran teenager and he backed against a wall. "Hold it right there," one of the troopers ordered.

"Hey man, what gives?" the teen griped. He tried step away, but one of clones shoved him back against the wall. From the moment he struck the duracrete, he hastily succumbed to fear.

Mattias couldn't stand the sight and stomped over to intervene. "Stop it!" he bellowed. The commander in charge approached him while the others proceeded with their duties.

"We're under orders, sir." Commander Fox explained. "We're only following protocol."

"He's just a boy," Mattias intoned.

One clone held the sniveling teen in place while another held up a facial scanner. It compared his likeness to that of the Umbaran gunman and ultimately flashed red. "No match," the scanning trooper said. "Should we take him for questioning, commander?"

Fox was about to confirm when Mattias stepped in. "Absolutely not," the Jedi said. "This boy has nothing to do with last night's attacks. I can sense how frightened he is."

"As can I," Rapunzel agreed. "Who's protocol are you acting on, commander?"

"The Supreme Chancellor's," Fox replied.

Mattias and Rapunzel exchanged suspicious glances before the former answered, "Well he can take up any grievances with me, but you are not interrogating this young man. Chancellor Palpatine's only going to increase hostility here on Coruscant if he starts profiling citizens after a terror attack."

Fox paused but ultimately beckoned his troops to him. "Come on, boys," he said. "Move to next sector." From the moment they released the teenager, he immediately bolted into an alleyway. The way he ran for his life had Mattias sighing in shame.

"The Republic shouldn't be striking fear in its citizens," he said.

"Believe it or not-" Rapunzel huffed. "This issue is far from new. It's just easier for many, including those in the Order...to look the other way." The two of them rejoined Anna and the clones as they entered the bar.

79's was a darkened, almost misty enclave within. Resounding beats shook the walls while neon banners and datascreens glowed. BD-3000 luxury droids served drinks while patrons flooded the dancefloor. Anna peered up at an advertisement for a rather electrifying beverage. Special effects had lightning pulsing through the cup and Anna was forced to look away.

"Lieutenant," Mattias called to Sparx. "If you saw Blazer amidst these troopers, could you identify him?"

"I believe so," Sparx replied.

"We'll split into two teams," Mattias said. "Anna and I will check the bar. Rapunzel, take Sparx and 85 to check the dancefloor. If we don't find anything, we'll meet up and move to the second level."

The group parted and Anna walked alongside her master. "Well this looks familiar," she jested and he raised a brow. "It's like our first mission when I started my Jedi Trials."

"Only this time I'm not letting you out of my sight," Mattias quipped.

A BD-3000 strutted up to them and held out a tray. "Free shots for the next twenty minutes," she computed.

Anna smirked at Mattias and he glowered. "Absolutely not," the master muttered.

"The drinking age is eighteen on some planets," Anna said.

"Well this is Coruscant," Mattias dramatically reminded her. "So let's talk about it again when you're twenty-one."

Mattias tried to sense Blazer through the Force. He quieted his mind despite the blaring music around him and focused on the living beings. Though so many shared the same face, each had a unique story to them. He remembered Blazer's angst on Kamino and thought deeply on it. Unfortunately, Mattias didn't count on the similar emotions each clone was enduring. Despite their merry facades, he could sense the troopers' buried stress and resentments. Every drink they downed was to help forget those they'd lost. Perhaps then, they could feel like those in Republic who already viewed them as expendable. Mattias suddenly felt something frigid sting his palm. The cold sensation had him opening his eyes to see a beverage nestled in it.

"I'm sorry," the BD-3000 said. "Did you not want one? You were just standing there with your eyes closed and stretching out a hand." Anna snickered while Mattias rolled his eyes.

On the dancefloor, Rapunzel was having the same trouble Mattias was. She too could not sense Blazer through the Force and was at a disadvantage having never known him. It didn't take long for her to realize that Mattias had strategically placed her with the clones. While 85 and Sparx had agreed to find Blazer, Rapunzel's presence kept the clones from withholding any secrets from the Jedi.

"Have you seen a sergeant?" Sparx asked one of the dancing officers.

"Can't say I have, brother! ARC troopers, though. Oh yeah. They put our armor to shame, lemme tell ya!"

Sparx pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. "This is hopeless."

85 observed the dancing patrons and tried tapping his cybernetic feet to the beat. It started to wobble and he forced himself to sit down out of fear. As he lamented over his legs, he suddenly heard a woman call to him. "Hey you!" an orange-skinned Twi'lek hollered. She spun alongside a tipsy Rodian and joyous clone. "Come dance with us!"

85 simpered and said, "Oh no. I-" he gestured to his metal legs. "I'm-"

"Come on, brother!" the joyful clone brayed.

"I wouldn't be able to do that stuff," 85 refuted.

The Twi'lek smirked and huddled around her friends. "Then we'll just have to make a new dance!" she proclaimed.

"Cthn rulyen stka wen!" the Rodian companion cheered.

Before 85 knew it, the Twi'lek was helping him up and linking arms with him. The Rodian took his other arm and linked up with the merry clone. "Together now," the Twi'lek said before kicking out with her left foot. "Left!...Right!...Left!...Right! Everybody!"

85 chanted alongside her and moved his legs in time with her cadence. They formed a kickline as he slowly became more accustomed to his new legs. "I'm...I'm doing it!" 85 gasped and grinned wider than he ever had. The Twi'lek winked while the Rodian smiled.

"Way to go, brother!" the dancing clone rejoiced.

Sparx had to do a double take when he witnessed 85's kickline. "Ma'am," he told Rapunzel. "Am I seeing this right?"

"Leave him be," Rapunzel sighed. "He needs it."

The festivities echoed upward and reverberated to the second level. The raucous, boisterous sounds of those having 'fun' had become a deafened blur to Sergeant Blazer. His haggard and somber reflection appeared in a cluster of empty glasses at his side. With a heavy gulp and furious slam, he added yet another to his collection. The bar counter swayed and swerved with his tired eyes. He had hoped the profuse amount of alcohol would drown out his grief, but his sadness had only doubled. A repurposed medical droid tended the bar and reached for his empty glasses. Blazer grumpily swatted its metallic hand away and grumbled the word, "More."

"Sir, I think you've had enough," the droid said.

"Think," Blazer chuckled and could hardly keep his eyes open. "You...think? Clankers can't think. You just have to do what you're programmed to. Do your duty for the Republic so we can protect and serve, right? Don't worry, I'll tip you. Oh wait! You're not getting paid either!" Blazer slammed his fist on the counter and the droid shuddered back. "Now get me another damn drink."

"Never seen one like you before," a woman beside him spoke. Blazer glanced over and could barley make out her short, black hair.

"S-Savil?" he uttered.

Blazer had mistaken her spiky cut for Savil's bob as her face began to take shape. A smirk formed on her violet lips as she leaned in. "Syri," she corrected. "It doesn't matter how drunk the typical clones in here get. They're always the same 'yes sir' copies underneath. But you..." Syri snaked her hand over and caressed his forearm. "You're different. You're your own man. I like that-"

Blazer reclaimed his arm and growled. "I'm already the Republic's toy," he countered. "I don't need to be yours." Syri stormed off with a scowl as Blazer returned to his drink. He fought off his rising nausea and prepared to down another glass. As he raised the azure liquid to his lips, the reflection of two clones appeared within it. He raised a brow and peered over his shoulder.

The duo sat a booth across from the bar and reveled in their stories. Their polished command cauldrons and bold kamas solidified their ranks as ARC troopers. Their advanced, crested helmets stared back at Blazer from the table's edge. He snorted and stumbled over to their booth.

"So I said-" one of the ARCs continued. "General Skywalker, where are you gonna get that kind of firepower? He tells me he's gonna improvise."

"Per usual," the second ARC jested.

"Skywalker," Blazer muttered and caught their attention. "Oh," he jeered mockingly. "You're 501st boys."

The second ARC sighed. "Look, pal. I think it's best if you-"

"Hold on a second, Echo," his friend said. "I want to hear him out." The clone swiveled from his cushion and glared up at Blazer. An overhanging light illuminated the '5' tattooed to his temple. The grimace atop his goatee deepened as he inquired, "Got something against the 501st, trooper?"

"Sergeant," Blazer asserted and almost tipped over. "That's sergeant to you, shiny."

The tattooed ARC stood up while Echo sighed. "He's not worth it, Fives," he said.

Fives didn't back down and faced Blazer. "Who are you calling a shiny?" the ARC queried.

Blazer shrugged and brandished an irksome grin. "I guess all of you. You 'five-o-ones' think you're better than everyone else. You think of yourselves as role models, but we know your Jedi's doing all the heavy lifting."

Fives' eyes widened and he jabbed finger at Blazer's chest. "Every man I've known in this legion is a hero." He only grew further infuriated when Blazer chuckled.

"Keep telling yourself that," Blazer mumbled. "But how many funerals did your boys get?" He scoffed at Fives' silence. "That's what I thought. I wasn't even allowed to go to my general's funeral. No one even told me when...or where. I suppose that's Jedi business. The same way they get to decide who lives and dies. While yours is out improvising...mine came back in a box."

Fives huffed. "Look, I'm sorry about your Jedi General. But-"

"Oh you're sorry?" Blazer grumbled. "You don't give a damn. No one does. As your friend there put it, I'm not worth it and neither are you. We're all just laser fodder guarding the Republic's assets, waiting for our turn at the inevitable."

"That's enough, sergeant," Fives rebuked sternly yet calmly.

"You know I'm right," Blazer continued. "And no amount of shiny armor can hide that fact." He went to tug at Fives' pauldron, but the ARC trooper shoved his arm away. The rigorous gesture coupled with rising anguish made Blazer take a swing at Fives.

The beligerent sergeant landed a punch across his face, but Fives could certainly take a hit. The ARC countered with a jab to Blazer's gut which had him hunching forward. Nausea returned in full force, but Blazer hardly had time to process it. Fives charged forward and tackled him into the bar counter. Screams and howls rang out while Blazer kicked Fives back. Carrying out his momentum, Blazer punched a nearby clone against the counter. By this point, Fives had backed away as the situation escalated. Enraged, the nearby clone grabbed one of Blazer's empty glasses and smashed it across his face.

"What the kriff is going on up there?" Anna asked until Blazer came tumbling down the stairs.

"Wait," Mattias realized. "Is that-"

"Oh yeah," Anna confirmed and rushed over.

Realizing he needed it after his stressful day, Mattias downed his drink and followed Anna. Blazer's clone combatant was heading down when Anna stood between them. "That's enough!" she yelled. "Jedi Order!" The clone glared at her, Mattias, and Rapunzel. He sneered at Blazer's writhing body and returned upstairs. Eager to get back to their festivities, the patrons of 79's didn't linger on the altercation for very long. The music was blaring and the dancefloor was packed within moments as Anna reached for Blazer.

"Get away from me!" he growled and swatted at her.

"Sarge," Anna uttered. "Blazer, it's me."

The clone's eyes widened as his lip trembled. He was sick, sad, and confused all at once. "A-Anna? Is it really you?" he murmured.

"It is," Anna assured. "It's the 'Jedi Jerk'." She relished in his faint, drunken smile and helped him up. "What do you say we find a quieter spot?" He nodded and the group safeguarded his exit.

Out on the curb, Rapunzel withdrew a bacta swab from her satchel and saw to Blazer's brow. He winced as she dressed his bleeding gash. "Try to not to move so much," the knight insisted. "Deep breaths."

Mattias and Sparx returned from the bar with cups of water. "Let's make sure he gets some of these in his system too," the lieutenant added.

"I don't know why you're even bothering," Blazer sighed.

"Hang in there, Sarge," 85 told him. "You didn't give up on me, so don't think I'm quitting on you for a second."

Blazer smirked at him and lackadaisically peered at his cybernetics. "Nice legs," he jested before sadness returned. "Oh Anna," he lamented. "I couldn't save them. I couldn't even save General...Master Savil."

"I know," Anna sighed and rubbed his back. "I um-...couldn't save some folks myself."

"I heard, kid." Blazer grieved. "This is all so terrible. Death's just chasing all of us."

Mattias swallowed hard and dared to speak up. "Savil was my friend," he said. "Her actions helped bring each of you boys home and she will never be forgotten. But part of honoring what she and all of your fallen brothers gave means living. All we have is each other and this time is precious. We have to choose...right here and now...to live. For ourselves and for everyone who has ever believed in us. Because if you owe your life to someone, you better make it count. Don't give up, take it one step at a time...and-"

"Do the next right thing," Anna added.

Mattias smiled and nodded to his apprentice. "That's right," he said. "We have a Jedi corvette waiting for us back at the Temple hangar."

"Where are we going, sir?" Sparx asked.

Mattias looked over his group and could sense the potential within each of them. "To a place of beginnings," he answered.

Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading this week's installment of "The Frozen Force." Your support on this ever-growing adventure is always appreciated and it's an honor to bring you a new part each week. We'll see you next week for Elsa's first day on the job for Senator Veritaz! As a treat, tune in tomorrow to my GoldenHeart Stories' Instagram or Twitter for exclusive artwork of Jedi Yelena and Mattias!

Long Live Imagination and May the Force be with You!

~ Michael