Star Wars: Arda Unleashed

by Lord Exar Kun

After the Arda Campaign ended in victory for the Republic and their local allies, the galaxy's eyes returned to the wider Clone Wars. However, the Dark Lord Sauron has yet to be vanquished. Now he has come to the wider galaxy free from the binds of Arda, and is ready to be unleashed upon the stars. As the Chosen One's fate, the Republic's and the Jedi Order's remains to be seen.

28. Fell Deeds Awake

Chapter 28

Fell Deeds Awake

Obi-Wan tilted around the corner of one of many bone structures of Pau City. Glancing around, he watched as three clones ran from his right to left. An explosion sounding off in that direction and pulling the white-armored men from a pile of ruined Separatist armor. Obi-Wan loosed a low sigh and slid his body along the edge of the structure and stepped out onto the open road of the city. He tilted his head right up the road leading deeper into the rock and the furthest reaches of the city buried in the ground, and then back left. In that direction, noting a distant turn of the road towards a sort of canyon made in the rock for the native pau'ans and utai. Where blaster fire was being exchanged back and forth.

Even hours after the attack he suffered; having crawled damp, confused, and shaken, Obi-Wan noted the continued fighting. He had climbed out from the water at the bottom of the sinkhole into a cavern off to the side of the main entrance he fell into. The sounds of small probe or camera droids had filtered into his ears as he climbed up the rock. Boots filled with water as he poured it out, and tunic sticking to his body as he hid from the sights of any droid. Republic or not. Also noting how Boga, the poor varactyl splashed out of the water with a loud cry. Shaking her feathered green form of the water and pulling up out of the cave towards a bore hole.

Obi-Wan let her go. Even if she was spotted by the clones it was unlikely they would harm the creature. Perhaps, her presence would even confuse them? Especially if she was spotted far away from where he ended up. Now as to why the clones had attacked him? Obi-Wan hadn't an idea. Everything had for the most part gone to plan. Save the escape of Grievous, again. Yet, he knew the sound of AT-TE fire, and had seen the color of it. As he fell, Obi-Wan had manged to turn enough to see the trajectory.

"Cody." Obi-Wan whispered to himself, and not for the first time since rising out of the water. "Force knows what's going on...I hope Anakin's alright." He whispered ducking across the road towards a line of dwellings built into the rock.

The Force was in turmoil. Obi-Wan could feel the ripples of pain, and confusion both near and far. It shook him to his core, and made this whole nightmarish scenario even more...well confusing, and worrying. His comlink was either thrown out of his tunic during his fall or into the water when he splashed into the pool. Even if he had found it: if it was in the water for that long it probably had broken by now. They were sturdy, but not that sturdy. All the same, Obi-Wan was intrigued.

As he pressed himself between two dwellings and once more tilted his head around the corner looking right, down the road towards the fighting happening in the distance, Obi-Wan would have thought this battle to have been won by now. Hours had passed, but it seemed like the abandoned droids were putting up a resilient, but ultimately inevitable, last stand. Obi-Wan had found Cody shortly after exiting the sinkhole. Found him but hadn't dared approach. Unlike Grievous and his army of droids back inside the Core ship, Cody wouldn't have hesitated to let his men fire on Obi-Wan...if that indeed was how things worked now. It was hard to wrap his mind around how, and why?!

Nonetheless, while Obi-Wan had listened to Cody from behind another native pau'an structure he had heard the Commander demand to know if they had found his body. They had reported nobody could 'survive' the fall. And, while Obi-Wan was grateful for their lapse in judgment, he had also watched as Cody and his men had rounded up native fighters. Pau'ans in their red cloaks tied up, and being detained, even as battles still raged cross Pau City, and potentially in cities beyond. The reason? Obi-Wan again had no worthwhile idea. Not yet at least. On a whim the clones seemed to have turned! From loyal, and obedient, to traitorous, and occupational, or cruel. These pau'ans had helped them! What use was their in detaining them?

"Are we Separatists now?" Obi-Wan wondered in a whisper. Shaking his head as he cast the thoughts of the recent past aside. His hair still cold and wet and loosing droplets of stray water down his face as he looked up the road in the opposing direction of the battle. Seeing an assortment of fallen clone troopers sprawled around the road, and many...many destroyed droids as well. A crab droid sparked with seven or so B1s scattered about it. While droid chassis singed and burned with smoke on upper terraces, and one morosely seemed to hang by a trapped foot from the ledge over a street where five or so clones were spread around the ground. Obi-Wan couldn't tell. They were in...various degrees of dismemberment. Likely from that crab droid or stray buzz droids.

"Nasty little buggers." Obi-Wan grimaced at the thought of having to deal with any of those right now on top of everything else he was dealing with. He took the heavy and irritable silence as his chance to dash up the road and over the carnage. This way was heading back deeper into the rock and away from the sinkhole as well as the interior city. The same way Grievous had tried to escape through.

Obi-Wan jumped over the fallen crab droid, and landed between its carcass and another unseen crab droid's. He moved around the second and kept moving up into the lit cavern. Having formulated a good enough plan to get out of Pau City, and away from his...the clones as soon as possible. A short enough walk; utilizing help from the Force that is, through this cavern would lead him to where he and Grievous had fought. Originally, he had thought about that fighter the General had kept hidden on the platform. Well, then he remembered what happened to said platform because of the HMP droid ship. Still, Obi-Wan had found a comlink from one of many various and sadly cut down clones. Not one programmed for distant communication, but one that could still be useful. He had one friend left in the system. Or, at least he hoped he did. And the comlink would come in handy as Obi-Wan dashed through the cavern, and over more and more sparse signs of blaster scorching and general battle. Until, for the second time, he came to the deep edge of the roadway. Showing rubble collapsed inside the cavern, and dim streams of light percolating through small cracks between boulder sized rocks mostly blocking the way to the ruined platform.

"Arfour come in?" Obi-Wan activated the comm. Broadcasting to the frequency of his ETA. He waited a long moment, heart slightly fluttering with adrenaline, and body twisting back and forth as his senses reached out carefully to the nearby cave. Watching and listening for any clone or droid alike.

Finally a low assortment of whirs and beeps met Kenobi's ears. He loosed another low sigh and felt his shoulders relax. "Yes Arfour, it's me." Obi-Wan nodded to himself. "My clones have...well turned on me. I need to get off Utapau." The little droid replied with another long whir of beeps and droid chirps.

"No, I don't think anyone on the fleet would help. At least I'm not willing to risk it. If the fleet staff or any clone in orbit are of similar mind to kill or capture me then they will relay that I'm alive to the ground forces." Obi-Wan paced back and forth as he mostly mused to himself. "Look, I'm not sure what's going on down here, Arfour. The sooner I get off Utapau, the sooner I can get to the bottom of all of this." The droid replied with a sad low whine. "It's alright Arfour." Obi-Wan assured. "I'm fine. But, I need your help." The Jedi turned down the cave. Making sure nobody had yet followed after him.

"If you can, I need you to get away from the fleet and come to this location. I'm taking a risk sending it out over this comm channel, so do be careful." Obi-Wan issued a location beacon from the comlink. Arfour quickly acknowledged receiving it.

"Good, Arfour. I would imagine since the ground assault is still carrying on down here the fleet may be less curious or aware that you're moving. Don't do anything fancy or suspicious and come pick me up. Do you still have the hyperspace ring's location?" Obi-Wan wondered and Arfour beeped a happy assurance that he did. Obi-Wan smiled and loosed another sigh.

"Good work, Arfour. Now do hurry! The less time I spend here the better." Arfour chirped and the two ended their short call. Obi-Wan left alone to pace some more.

All manner of thoughts and worries entering his mind. Not just for himself of course. The Force was in turmoil and it echoed over vast distances. The battle here was not the only thing causing the stir. Wherever battle went there was sure to be pain and anguish in the Force. But, what Obi-Wan felt was distant calls. Familiar feelings or thoughts of memories or sensations. All that spoke to him of some memory and familiarity. Whatever it was he didn't like it. This attack...the more he thought about it the less he thought it could be some random or isolated issue. Of course he had no proof for that yet, but he could feel it. The Force was whispering of it in his mind. And he was not one to ignore his feelings.

Before long Obi-Wan heard from outside the cave the whir of an ETA-2 Actis-class interceptor. He turned his head and moved towards the boulder laden exit. Pushing his thoughts and worries aside as he jumped atop a fallen blown out boulder and used the Force to shove a few more out of his way. Clearing the way and allowing a burst of dimming sunlight into the cave. Showing the results of the HMPs attack. The landing pad was collapsed, hung by sheered metal and dangling with the sway of crunching metal by but a few reinforced durasteel support beams.

Just ahead, and hovering nearby, his ETA moved in closer and the top opened. Arfour's domed head swiveling to Obi-Wan and beeping happily. As well as hurriedly. The little droid seeming to have taken his master's own paranoia and concern to heart.

"Just a moment Arfour." Obi-Wan grimaced. Looking down into the far drop off beneath him. His mind and stomach flashing back to that long drop in Moria. Unlike Anakin, Obi-Wan never was a big fan of heights… "Alright…" Obi-Wan pulled back and leapt with the Force over and atop the hovering ship. His arms and legs buzzed and turned to gelatin for just a moment and he loosed a breath. Centering himself and calling the Force to him. Not wanting a repeat of what he and Boga had gone through a few hours ago. Nonetheless, Obi-Wan jumped into the seat, and allowed Arfour to close the top. Strapping himself in he breathed a bit more calmly.

"Alright Arfour, get us to the hyperspace ring, and let me see if I can get a hold of anyone at the Temple." Arfour chirped happily and pulled the ship back and burst up out of the sinkhole climbing steadily back into orbit and breaking atmosphere into the blackness of space.

"Nobody's on the general comm…" Obi-Wan intoned darkly as he called one of the general lines to the Jedi Temple. Nobody answering as Arfour moved the interceptor towards the still aimlessly floating hyperspace ring. A single simple message appearing on screen from Arfour.

"No!" Obi-Wan snapped, but reeled it back. "No, don't answer it. If they get suspicious we'll be out of system by the time they send a wing to check us out." Obi-Wan figured as Arfour relayed the Republic fleet requesting Arfour's trajectory information. More or less wondering why the ship was doing what it was doing now. The droid beeped an affirmative and pulled up to the ring.

"Let's try a general emergency contact…" Obi-Wan figured, entering in a few keys along the communicator, and shutting out the normal Republic communication channels. "Emergency Code 913, I have no contact on any frequency." He waited a moment. Noting the ring snapping onto the interceptor as Arfour beeped that the Republic was issuing an order to respond.

"Master Kenobi." The blue of the holocomm whirred to life, and a voice came through.

"Repeat."

"Master Kenobi!" Obi-Wan furrowed his brow. Recognizing one of Senator Organa's attendants and security personnel.

"Captain Antilles?" Obi-Wan was confused why this man would be monitoring this comm channel, but he was a beggar, so couldn't be a chooser. "My clone troops turned on me. I need help."

"We have just rescued Master Yoda." The Captain informed. "It appears this ambush has happened everywhere. We're sending you our coordinates." The Captain informed. Also letting Obi-Wan know that his bad feeling turned out to be true. His heart aching at the realization that he was not alone in suffering this attack. Though...he could only imagine he was a lucky one.

"Alright, get us to those coordinates Arfour. We need to have a chat with the Captain when we get there." Obi-Wan ordered, plugging the coordinates into the navicomputer as he did so. Arfour again chirped an affirmative, and with a whir of the hyperdrive ring the interceptor exploded out of the Utapau System.

---

"Evil? What is that? - You said you were death itself. Are you evil, then, or are you simply stronger and more awake than others? Who gives more shape to sentient history: the good, who adhere to the tried and true, or those who seek to rouse beings from their stupor and lead them to glory? A storm you are, but a much needed one, to wash away the old and complacent and prune the galaxy of dead-weight."

'"Crippled by empathy, shackled to obedience – to their Masters, their Council, their cherished Republic – they perpetuate a myth of equality, serving the Force as if it were a belief system that had been programmed into them. With the Republic they are like indulgent parents, allowing their offspring to experiment with choices without consequence, and supporting wrong-headedness merely for the sake of maintaining family unity. Tripping over their own robes in a rush to uphold a galactic government that has been deteriorating for centuries."

'"The galaxy can't be set on the proper course until the Jedi Order and the corrupt Republic have been brought down."

- Darth Plagueis

---

Arsuna opened her eyes and loosed a low sigh from her nose. A grumble escaped her throat as she glanced right with groggy yellow hued eyes to the desk beside her couch. She saw that Jaythree must've come into the room at some point and laid a blanket atop her. The hum of the room was the only sound that entered her ears as she pushed herself up to sit. Only then fumbling around herself and the cushions for the datapad she had been reading.

"Where is the damn thing?" She smacked her tongue in mild irritation and scoffed when she couldn't find it. She ran her right hand through the free long strands of her purple hair and felt the softness of the wavy lines. Running that hand to her forehead and glancing to a desk beside the couch. Seeing a chrono show her just how late it was. Which elicited a grumble from her. Thinking idly to herself if her guest head returned? Though, supposing with whatever was going on at the Jedi Temple it was best to not raise too many questions with her or anybody for that matter.

Arsuna pushed the blanket from atop herself and stood her lithe form up. Stretching and rolling her shoulders before she turned to her left.

"Whoa!" She jumped and her left hand slapped itself atop her chest. Her eyes wide in momentary lapse of control and fear. As a woman stood beside the entrance to that damn veranda of hers. Unmoved and unspoken as the datapad she had been looking for lay in the stranger's hands.

"Calm yourself, Ms. Sipillona."

"Who are you?! And how did...oh never mind I know how you got in here…" Arsuna growled to herself. Noting the woman had a very plain sound to her voice. Little reverberation, and very controlled as she glanced through the intelligence sent by Koll from Arda.

"Do not panic. I am the benefactor of the one who was here before. Serra." The new woman intoned and Arsuna relaxed a little at that. Though the name was new.

"Serra huh? She wasn't very forthcoming with herself. So, forgive me if I am a bit cautious."

"If you mean to call your droid, you are free to do so. However, the result would be the same as before."

"Oh please." Arsuna scoffed. "Clearly someone who silently reads reports not theirs while I sleep is of no concern to me!"

"Funny." The stranger gave a single and likely unfeeling laugh. She turned her face to Arsuna and bore no expression. Arsuna capturing her pixie-bob hairstyle, and golden blonde assortment of hair dashed to her right. Eyes that burned an unnatural yellow much like the other one, Serra. Her clothing was a lot alike to Serra's. Black hood atop a simple tunic and leggings pair. All dark and rather normal for Jedi-types. Though her hood was laid down across her shoulders as she stood in the light of the moons and the datapad.

"You're her 'Lord' I take it?"

"Indeed." The woman intoned.

"Do you have an actual name?" Arsuna pressed after a moment of silence.

"I have a few actually." The woman smirked coldly. "You may, however, call me Valdaran." The name was...interesting. Seemed like a name more associated with a local world than one of common use in the Core. Nonetheless, Arsuna shrugged and plastered a smile to her face.

"So, Valdaran," The pantoran girl began. "Where is our dear friend? Our intermediary."

"You are rather quick to accept I am who I say I am." Valdaran noted.

"These last few days have been interesting enough." Arsuna shrugged. "If you aren't who you say you are then I am found out and so was er, Serra was it?" Arsuna noted. "If you aren't someone looking to exploit my...moves like Serra and her Lord, then you know enough to arrest or kill me. Though I shouldn't see a reason to kill lil' harmless me." Arsuna sweetly smiled along her youthful blue face. She placed her hands together atop her night dress and shrugged again. "So, I presume you're telling the truth, and have come to make our agreements official."

"An astute use of logic." Valdaran hummed. "Very good. As for Serra she shall not be joining us."

"Has she angered you somehow?" Arsuna pressed, and Valdaran cast another thin line of a smile from her pale human face. "No. She is dead." To that Arsuna let her mouth open ever so slightly. Shaking herself to hide her shock before speaking.

"I...I see. Then she has-"

"I did not kill her." Valdaran cut her off as the blonde woman swept into the room to the right of Arsuna and sat herself atop the opposing couch to the one Arsuna had just been sleeping on. Placing the datapad atop the glass table between. "Serra has taken part in an attack on the Jedi Temple. One I know you have seen from a distance." Arsuna just then remembered the sight of the Jedi Temple burning. Her head snapped from her new friend to the veranda and nodded.

"Yes...I...what's going on there?" Arsuna asked returning to her couch and sitting down with a sweep of her right leg over left in a lady-like fashion. "Am I to be connected to a terrorist attack on the Jedi?" She laughed, even if it hid an earnest fear. Valdaran, however, shook her head.

"Serra was careful to hide her movements. She had served her purpose, and we need not concern ourselves with the deeds of those who have played their part."

"So easy to cast friends aside?"

"Friends, no." Valdaran simply quipped, and it was enough for Arsuna to get what she meant.

"Right." The pantoran nodded.

The concept of murder and death should have felt odd to her. She had seen war, and knew of all the corporate intrigue and backstabbing that went on in politics. Yet, she had never openly ordered someone killed. The coup she was helping foment on Arda was...perhaps as close as she had gotten, and only then did it really dawn on her the death she was helping come to fruition. Yet, she felt...nothing. It was easy actually. Especially because she wasn't the one doing it. In the end, everyone died. It was for those who knew how to play the game of life, and make the most of it to continue living while those who flailed and staggered was to choose their sides and play their own small part of the wider, and larger game of life. Was it not?

Suddenly Arsuna felt her hand fiddle with her new ring. A gift from this woman before her. Though she did not mention it aloud. Rather, Arsuna realized then in a cruel moment of clarity she could be told of someone's death and be shocked it occurred. But, unfazed by its happening.

"Well," Arsuna smirked. "Let's not dwell on the past then?"

"Exactly." Valdaran nodded.

"So," Arsuna folded a ruffle of her loose dress atop her left knee. Patting it of imagined dust and smiling as she so often did for business and backroom deals. "What's next?" To the question Valdaran pointed to the datapad on the table.

"Was the intelligence I shared with you to your satisfaction?"

"Lady Amdirniel proved to be very forthcoming and knowledgeable." Arsuna nodded. "I had been led to believe from Serra that you not only knew matters concerning the local politics of Arda, but may have come from there yourself?" Arsuna wondered more than stated. To which the opposing woman dipped her head thoughtfully.

"Were you? Well, I suppose that much is easy enough to glean." Valdaran essentially answered. "Lady Amdirniel is an intelligent woman. Always has been." Well that confirmed it to Arsuna. She was of Arda, in some way.

"I had never thought her to be bold enough to act without a worthy benefactor in Mordor. However, in these uncertain times, with her uncertain ward she has little else to do but hope for any alliance that presents itself." To that Arsuna tilted her head quizzically.

"Uncertain ward?" She repeated.

"Her son, Mahalmion." Valdaran waved her right hand. "The child has always been...dubious."

"In terms of his legitimacy for the throne?"

"No." Valdaran shook her head. The dim streaming lights of Coruscant and the soft lights of Arsuna's lamps glinting across her face. "The child has a legitimate claim. Regardless, of whatever Prince Amathir, the Gondorian nobles or anyone other may think. This much I know."

"Care to explain how?"

"Not presently." Valdaran retorted and Arsuna chuckled. Appreciating this woman's simple charisma. "Mahalmion is idealistic. Potentially of use. However, what is more important is that they are acceptable, and should be acceptable enough a piece for those in the east and the southern tribes to rally behind."

"Rally behind?" Arsuna scoffed. "They, like me, want nothing more than a weak pretender on the throne for their own gain."

"The point is moot, my Lady." Valdaran motioned her hand dismissively. "All I caution is to not place trust in Mahalmion to be of too much use beyond symbology."

"Noted." Arsuna smiled. "Any other points worth mentioning?"

"Reiterations, perhaps." Valdaran began. Leaning forward and interlocking her fingers ahead of herself and resting her elbows upon her knees. "The cargo I instructed you to move, has it arrived yet?"

"No." Arsuna shook her head. "Tomorrow, their time, or at latest the day after? Time is difficult to keep track these days."

"Regardless, ensure your man on the ground, this Taruk Koll, understands it must only be given once conditions have been met in the east."

"Regarding that." Arsuna began. "How will this eastern Prince be contacted? Lady Amdirniel made note of the one you chose to be in a difficult position." To that Valdaran huffed a single laugh from her throat and gave a dark smirk as her eyes danced in yellow power beyond Arsuna's comprehension.

"Emperor Úndrathill and his progeny…" The woman again huffed a throaty laugh. "The man was useful, and his army even more so. The sons in question, Takughíl, Borgus and Ganghûthil are the only ones who showed promise. All of them were landed and held massive armies in the districts of concern in Rhûn."

"How so?" Arsuna pressed, though Amdirniel's notes had given her much insight already.

"Úndrathill placed a son at the head of each of the eastern powers. Borgus ruled the most similar of men to those like Gondor. The western borders of the vast lands of Rhûn were, and are his to command. He fights much in the manner of the Men of the West. However, with more cruel a passion."

"Yet, he has been pulled away from his lands in the West."

"Precisely, my Lady." Valdaran nodded knowingly. "Prince, or perhaps King Takughíl is the Eastern Lord. He rules in a land of fine warriors, draped in red cloth and bronze or gold armor. They are the most professional, and the finest of soldiers. They make up the vast majority of manpower in the East, but Takughíl is faint-hearted, and of minimal war capability."

"Really?" Arsuna pondered. "Because Amdirniel; I'm sure you're aware, noted that Takughíl is the one I should deal with. Well, that Koll and our partners should deal with." Arsuna laughed while Valdaran smirked darkly.

"Takughíl was given the title of Eastern King because he is controllable. The vast pettier lords of the east will rally to him and his armies because they think they will be able to make him Emperor and turn his will to their own. Borgus is likely under strain by Takughíl's armies, but not because of Takughíl."

"Then who?" Arsuna pondered.

"Our future partner, Ganghûthil."

"But, as the lady said, he is weak." Arsuna repeated.

"Everyone underestimates him, and that is their folly." Valdaran noted. "From what I know, unlike his half brothers, Ganghûthil was made warlord of the wainriders, and the various variag and horse-lords of the east. These clans are seen as the most barbaric and of minimal use to the disciplined lords of the East and West. These tribes and clans inhabit the south east nearest to Harad. Ganghûthil is quiet, and comes off as obsequious, because unlike loud and proud Borgus, or prim and proper Takughíl, Ganghûthil knows how to play the game. And only a fool actually underestimates the horse and the riders of the east."

"He is the one fighting Borgus?" Arsuna concluded to which Valdaran nodded.

"It is my belief from...what I knew to be brewing in the east last I was upon Arda, and confirmed through Lady Amdirniel's reports that Borgus and his armies are being defeated so utterly because the lords of the East and Takughíl have placed subservient Ganghûthil at the head of the armies. Little realizing he will in turn use his position to take the throne."

"Isn't that all rather speculative?" Arsuna offered and Valdaran motioned her right hand again.

"Perhaps, if we were not going to give him the tools to make it so."

"Right." Arsuna nodded. Remembering the cargo inbound for Arda. "Well, far be it for me to tell someone as obviously well versed as you, how to play politics on Arda. So, I defer to your judgment."

"A wise move, my Lady." Valdaran nodded. "If you want Elessar to be pressed into aligning with your Republic, he will need greater persuasion than an uptick in Corsair attacks. We must make him and his people reel in terror once again. Deluded into a position of peace, and a footing of renewal. We must sap hope from them once more."

"Once more?" Arsuna repeated and Valdaran's eyes met Arsuna's. A glint within them shining. One Arsuna felt a cold chill run down her spine upon noticing. She recoiled slightly at the sight.

"We all play parts in the long tale of history. No matter what world we're upon we add something to the collective story. I once played a role upon Arda. Perhaps I shall again." Valdaran reclined watching Arsuna the entire time. "Now that we're bound together in action."

"Of course." Arsuna nodded. Momentarily confused by her own willingness to say as much. Yet, in her heart she felt a draw to this woman. Nothing of base attraction. Rather, it was a charisma, and power of voice and knowledge. If ever there was a being that spoke with authority that rivaled even the Supreme Chancellor, Arsuna had not met them. Until now.

"Well," Arsuna cleared her throat. "I shall keep you appraised of our dealings. As well as direct Koll and his friends on Arda to meet with Ganghûthil."

"Good." Valdaran nodded. "When they do, have your man repeat what I am about to say word for word." Arsuna narrowed her gaze, but remained silent and listening. "From Úndrathill to Ganghûthil, the Eye of the Dark Tower watches. It watches still."

"Just that?" Arsuna wondered with a quizzical glance.

"Just that." Valdaran nodded.

"Okay. I'll make a note of that." Arsuna informed. "And, if Ganghûthil is open to our terms what then?"

"Then he receives the cargo. He is shown how it works, and we draw Elessar in. There we will humble him."

"By humbling him-"

"He either die, or he will crawl to the Republic, and his Jedi friends." Valdaran finished, cutting Arsuna off. "A win-win as they say."

"Good. Very good." Arsuna smiled.

"Yes. Now, to the other matter." Valdaran continued. "Serra requested of you to find suitable worlds that met my criteria."

"Those not yet in navicomputers or known to the wider galaxy, save for a probe droid here and there. Yes, I remember." Arsuna broadened her smile.

"Then you have a candidate?"

"A system found on the edge of the Mid-Rim bordering the Outer-Rim. It is rather close to Separatist controlled space though."

"Of no concern." Valdaran assured.

"Alright. Well, it's a system of five planets. All of them lacking in any noteworthy lifeforms. Two planets are habitable, though one more than the other."

"Explain." The woman pressed.

"Of course. The first two worlds are far too hot. The star of the system is a beautiful but very hot blue. About three times as large as Coruscant's star. Very likely it has...eaten a world in its earliest primordial lifespan."

"Go on." Valdaran motioned.

"Nevertheless, the planets are in the habitable zone. The third rock is a bit of a mess. Closer to the star, a bit hotter, but basically a sweltering summer on a world like Balmorra. Geologically it's a bit of a nightmare. Vast tracks of blasted volcanic landscape. Thick ashen smog plumes that come and go, especially during the axial orbit of the star which plays havoc with geologic activity. There is water, and plains, and lots of rock. However, it lacks any unique flora or fauna. Grass, and shrubs, but the weather makes it difficult. Sea life appears to be in a primordial state."

"I see." The blonde woman nodded. "And the other world?"

"The fourth. Much nicer. Snow capped mountains, vast forests and savannas, as well as thriving ecosystem in the ocean with some familiar animals on the planet. May have been due to an ancient seed ship. But, nobody has landed on the planet to check for any signs beyond the probe droid's gathered intelligence." Arsuna finished. "Oh, and the final world of the system is a plain ball of ice. Very far from the system, hardly any daylight. No oxygen either, but lots of frozen water." She added with a shrug of boredom.

"I shall see this system, and both worlds for myself." Valdaran began simply. "Wipe the records your Corps has of them, and give me the coordinates. Enact whatever protocols you can to ensure the Republic believes the region to be lacking. Without any worth in checking again."

"Should be easy enough." Arsuna found herself agreeing again. Well, she was making alliance with her. So, it was better to be cordial.

"A final note, my Lady." Valdaran smiled and rose to a stand, patting herself of dirt. Of which Arsuna noted along her tunic and robes as she joined this new ally in standing.

"What's that?"

"I require a ship. A large freighter of some kind. Capable of holding several hundred beings for transport." To that Arsuna cocked a curious brow.

"Planning on throwing a party?"

"Not exactly." The woman hummed. "However, I will have need of transportation for a trip I am planning."

"Where?"

"Arda." To that Arsuna remained silent. Wanting to question why, or the point in heading to the planet on her own. But, something told Arsuna with this woman...perhaps it was best she simply let the notion drop. Really the pantoran girl would gain little out of knowing. Perhaps it was even better not to know at all?

"SipTrade has some large cargo transports. Should be easy to commandeer one."

"Have your man in the Diplomatic Services get it authorized for access to the system. I will require a few days on world before I vacate."

"Consider it done." Arsuna scoffed a laugh. "Koll could always use some work to keep him on his toes." To that the Valdaran woman cracked another thin smirk.

"Then we have come to an accord." She raised her hand. Arsuna observed it for a second. Feeling a sense of a business deal strike her. Some price had been agreed to. The negotiations for now being had, and the deal struck. She smiled, her youthful and beautiful features twisting in accomplished glee as she took the hand and shook it in kind.

"I look forward to our continued partnership." Arsuna noted.

"As do I, my Lady Sipillona." Valdaran bowed her head. "I shall take Serra's place in your spare room, if you do not mind, my Lady?"

"Of course not." Arsuna shrugged. Finding such a request...statement, order? Whatever, finding it simple and easy enough.

"I will likely depart Coruscant tomorrow. I have another meeting I must attend."

"Another partner?" Arsuna wondered. A flash of some kind of concern or...even sting of jealousy rise in her! In regards to this deal she found herself in of course. The last thing she wanted was another to be trying to worm their way into her position with this woman.

"Of sorts. They have no desires for Arda." Valdaran noted. As though knowing her mind. In fact Arsuna only then wondered if this woman was a Jedi...well of course she had to be! The clothes and the Serra woman's adherence to her must've meant she was. Arsuna would need to be defensive about her thoughts as before.

"I see." Arsuna finally nodded. Letting go of their met hands. "Will you be gone for long?"

"I shall see. There is much in need of attending to. However, once my meeting with this partner is concluded I will make for Arda."

"Ah, very good. I can provide you with coordinates to meetup with the freighter at your convenience?"

"That and a smaller, faster ship would be of great help." The woman asked for much, but if her intelligence and wisdom turned out to be fruitful, Arsuna would take a chance. Frankly she had come this far, backing out now would just be silly.

"Consider it done."

"Then I shall leave you to your sleep, my Lady." Valdaran smiled. "I have a call in need of making. So I shall make myself acquainted with my quarters."

"As you wish. Will I see you off before you leave?"

"Yes. Come mid morning." Valdaran answered moving down the hall. Seemingly knowing where she was going without directions from Arsuna. A fact that both concerned her but just seemed like the norm of late too.

"See you then, my Lady." Arsuna waved after her. Sighing as she left her sight. The pantoran girl ran both hands over her forehead along her hair and down to her shoulders. Loosening the mounted pressure she hadn't realized had been welling in her shoulders and stomach. Shaking herself as she felt sleep prod her eyes. She sighed and brought her hand up. Smiling at her little ring. Before humming happily, and retreating to her own room.

Making sure to send a note to Jaythree to not shoot at her newest guest if they should meet before she did.

---

Grievous motioned his left hand in and out of a fist. His reptilian eyes watching every finger flex, and every swivel of the joints. He spun the wrist quickly. Ensuring that also worked. Quickly repeating the process with his right hand. A grumble loosening from his vocabulator as he tilted his head down. His two newly acquired legs dangling over the sides of the work table he had been splayed upon. Three floating repair droids circled the room. One removing the discarded and ruined limbs, and another discarding Grievous' chest plate. While the third returned to the front of Grievous.

"Your organ sack requires further work, General." The droid began in a low and robotic voice, even for droids. "This solvent will keep the small puncture sealed."

"Do it." Grievous growled as the droid lowered itself to the General's opened chest. The metal plating having been temporarily removed as the second droid gathered another spare set. One form an assortment that Grievous had ordered be made available if needed. And, needed it had been. Despite the rage the fact filled the General with. Kenobi's strike had torn his protective chassis with a burning gash. The tip of the lightsaber the Jedi had attempted to steal had nixed the organ sack and fluid had begun running freely. Were it not for the built in solvent release system to pack the breach Grievous may well have died regardless of his escape.

The repair droid applied a healthy spray of solvent fluid. Making contact with the open atmosphere of the ship the fluid turned to a thick smear of bubbling white sealant. Becoming hard, but not pushing where space did not allow. Filling and refilling the breach. Grievous growled to himself in restrained wrath. The many revelations made of late, and the reality made clear filled him with venom. The strange voice calling and beckoning him to dig deeper into his position with the Separatist Council, Dooku and Sidious. Culminating in the attack by Kenobi and the Republic that made it all the more clear and obvious that his death warrant had been signed by the Sith Lord himself. The voice had been proven correct. Grievous was bristling with contempt, and a silent gnawing fact in his mind. A truth to his state. Were it not for the call he received he would likely be dead and discarded this very moment. In the quiet of his mind, the General knew incredible fear.

"Solvent applied." The droid aannounced and warbled up, as the second returned with a new chassis for Grievous. The first droid from before circled around Grievous and the second held a small arm out with the left side of the plating. The droid at his back gripped it and pressed it to Grievous' spinal section. A plasma torch announced itself and Grievous groaned as he felt the sensations of pain be synthetically sent to his brain. They were dulled, but the chassis was applied and bolted into his spine. While the third droid returned and also went behind his back. Allowing the second to give the right chest plate over. Allowing that droid to apply it in kind.

As the droids continued to work on him, Grievous contemplated what his next move should be. In the quiet of his mind as his eyes stared daggers towards the far wall. Hatefully glaring at nothing in particular. He and the small fleet he had with him were making for Mustafar. Grievous felt his hands flex. Imagining arriving and slaughtering every one of those who yet remained on the Separatist Council! Hearing them squeal and beg and fall to their knees pleading to not be butchered! The thought sent a cool, but thrumming chill up the very spine the droids were molding the new chest plates to.

Grievous also wondered what Sidious had wanted?

Some time after leaving the Utapau system he had received a call. While waiting for the droids to prepare this room to work on him in fact. The General had seen the transmission origin point. He had half a mind to answer! To howl, and rage against the man who dared betray him! However, in the end Grievous had stood and stared for a long quiet and heart racing moment. Some silent anxiety buried inside of him unspoken and disallowed to be seen or heard. Until he simply ignored the call. A small if petty victory. As Grievous came to the conclusion then, as he reaffirmed to himself now. There was nothing left to be said. He did not want to hear the Sith attempt to twist the truth and reality to his own ends. Grievous was not stupid. The General knew the man had a way with words and with twisting any scenario or situation to his own ends. At least, Grievous now realized that truth. The 'necessary' loss of Dooku, and the 'unfortunate' but ultimately meaningless loss at Coruscant. Those two only that way because Sidious never planned to take Coruscant. Never meant for Grievous nor for Dooku to succeed. It had all been so utterly pointless! Until now.

Now, as Grievous watched and heard the droids circle around him; prodding at his chest; yanking onto it to test its durability, the General came to the conclusion he had come to before. He would act in accordance to how he wished to. No longer be an unwitting pawn in this game between Sidious and the Republic. He had made an alliance with the strange voice. The voice had been seemingly honest with him, and for that reason Grievous would give them some measure of benefit. See how this alliance would work, because Grievous held the proverbial cards. His hand was solid, and he would play them as he wished. Never again deferring to Sidious, the Council or Dooku.

The droids warbled back to the table lined with spare replacement plates and limbs for Grievous. The General remaining quiet as he then heard a familiar set of beeps. His eyes narrowed and he tilted his head to a secondary and small table beside the one he sat on. His comlink whirred for the second time. Though this unit was new of course, just recently reprogrammed with his signal. Wordlessly one of the droids floated over to it, gripped it and brought it to Grievous. He grasped it; allowing the droid to float off back to its business, as the General checked the incoming signal. He didn't recognize the code. Much as he had not for the voice. However, he did have a moment of wonder if this could be Sidious? Attempting to call him on a different signal code? Though that would be highly unusual for one such as him. Sidious was always very particular about how he would be contacted or make contact. Though, that did not account for this situation with Grievous no longer heeding such rules.

In the end, Grievous snapped the accept key. Holding the comlink in the palm of his right hand and watching the blue streams begin building an image. Figuring that if it turned out to be Sidious, he could always have a laugh and hang up on the Sith traitor. Yet, such was moot as the image built a pixelated mess of motioning blue streams. Allowing Grievous to discern who it was.

"I take it you have survived the day, General?" The voice began. Even through the voice modifier, sounded...slightly different. Grievous remained cautious but loosed a single gravely scoff.

"The attack by the Republic came. Just as you figured it would."

"The positioning of your fleet proved fortuitous then." The voice offered. Grievous had to admit they were right.

"It had." The General admitted simply.

"All the same, you have survived the attempt by Sidious to have you killed. As I have."

"What?" Grievous demanded.

"It is a bit of a tale, General." They began. "Let's just say that things are moving far faster than anyone I think anticipated on Coruscant. In time your intelligence services will likely fill you in on the developing situation here. However, I should caution you to understand that this is a matter beneath your time."

"You certainly make me want to make it my business." Grievous replied narrowing his gaze.

"Perhaps." The voice accepted. "However, it is of no consequence. And, if you wish for Sidious to receive his just rewards for his years of waste and treason you should allow this situation to develop without any actions on your own part." Grievous listened. Wondering just what could be happening that would put the Sith in jeopardy. A few thoughts entering his mind. Military, police, Jedi, or something to do with all three or...well anything and everything.

"We shall see." Grievous relented at last. He did have...other matters to attend to.

"Where are you headed, General?" The voice intuited and wondered.

"To the Separatist Council on Mustafar. I have business that still needs to be finished." Grievous darkly loosed a chuckle.

"While I fully understand your desires, General, may I recommend you don't cut them all down one by one? At least, not yet."

"I will not be denied my need of revenge after what I have just been through!" Grievous roared! "They and Sidious planned to have me chained and assassinated! Utapau would have been my grave!"

"Were it not for wise council." The voice coolly and evenly replied. Angering Grievous with how he had to; at least silently, concede the point. To said point, Grievous growled but eased back into his seat. Having realized only then he had jumped to a stand in rage.

"Now," The voice continued. "You are free to do as you wish to the Separatist Council, General. I am not your master, nor do I hold a leash. What I offer you now is what I have before, wise council." The voice offered and Grievous felt calm return to him. Hearing the voice recognize it did not hold power over him in that way was refreshing.

"Then why should they remain alive?" The General wondered.

"For the same reason I noted why our alliance would be beneficial. In time, I portend the Republic will be in a state of crisis. With the loss of Dooku, and the removal of Sidious, what the Confederacy is left with is a limp Council and, of course yourself, General. When the chaos begins in the Republic, as some may say it has already, questions will be raised across the Confederacy. Oft the tides turning on one shore means they have upon another." The voice carried on. "The Council are, from what I know of them, and your own opinion of them, a weak thatched gaggle of greedy corporate monopolists. That greed can be of use to us. Not only that but we can cow them into submission. You would not be held back in punishing those who do not submit, of course. However, their credits, their assets and their contacts could be of use to you. To us."

"Even if," Grievous began. "they hand over all that they have, and join the new system they will attempt to flee, or betray! They are cowards! They fear me, and have sought to use me! Given the chance they will again."

"That is why I mean to meet with you." The voice announced and Grievous tilted his head.

"Meet with me?" He repeated quizzically.

"Yes. I will be traveling to Mustafar come tomorrow morning my time. Now that I know where you're headed."

"Then I will finally know who you are." Grievous noted, and the voice gave a single dull laugh.

"That you will, General. Unlike Sidious I have no concern with you knowing who I am. Now that I am sure we can actually work together. Though, back to the main point." They added. "Allow me the chance to persuade your would be traitors to join up with us in the reforms of the Confederacy. As ever, you should never expect me to attempt tot remove the Confederate Army or Navy from your command. You are the Supreme Commander, General." The voice lauded, and Grievous welcomed the statement. "As part of our, little alliance though, I would like the chance to ease the transition of the Confederacy of last week, to the Confederacy of tomorrow." The voice finished. And, while Grievous found the idea of keeping the Council alive contemptible...he had to admit the voice made a good point. If they could be used, and not listened to or taken orders from then the Council may have something to offer the new age of the Confederacy of Independent Systems.

"I make no promises." Grievous acquiesced. For the most part.

"I understand, General." The voice again gave a single dull laugh. "Now, we need not keep ourselves waiting until tomorrow." The voice began and Grievous tilted his head again.

"What?"

"Let us build up our bond of trust further, General." Was the simple reply the voice gave as the voice turned from the usual garbled mess to a feminine tone. One that Grievous felt his eyes narrow as it sounded familiar…

Then, the amalgam of pixels and lines twisted away revealing the human shape. Grievous' eyes widened and he again jumped to his newly acquired talons!

"YOU!" He howled in shock, as Vica's eyes blinked, and her expression turned from cool and cold, to a smirking grin the General had long ago become both acquainted and tired of. Back on a lone galactic backwater.

"Hello, General. We have a lot to talk about."

---

"What's happened lad?!" Gandalf wondered gravely as he and the rest of the delegation in varying speeds came to Anakin. The Jedi Knight breathed heavily. The excess of Oneness and suddenness of thoughts roused and flying in all manner of direction shaking his body and racing his heart. The Jedi and soldiers of either side watching the whole scene in a delayed sense of astonishment.

"She...they…" Anakin began and gasped as Gandalf gripped his shoulder comfortingly.

"Breathe lad. Take a breath." The wizard beckoned while Anakin nodded his thanks for the good advice. His brow and hair sweat laden.

"You were right. Right about Palpatine! He's the Sith Lord we've been looking for." To that Gandalf recoiled his head. His knowledge of the creature coming to mind. Spoken of not only by Anakin, but Obi-Wan and even Master Yoda. He tilted a glance to Galadriel who met his eyes darkly. A single nod showing as she and the wizard shared the horror of such a revelation.

"That's the Dark Lord whose behind this war right?!" Pippin of all members wondered. Having paid enough attention to what his friends had said.

"Yes Pip." Anakin nodded still gulping air. "The Chancellor, our Chancellor is behind it! Behind everything! He's the Dark Lord who trained Dooku, who backed Grievous! He's played both sides from the karking beginning!" Anakin announced aloud. Loud enough for others nearby to hear. Jedi turned to one another. Whispering darkly, and thoughtfully. As soldiers on either side were as equally lost at such a concept. Of course the clones were less emotive or thoughtful. Titles like Sith didn't mean anything when they adhered to the Supreme Chancellor of the Galactic Republic. Regardless of whatever titles he also retained.

"Who was this?!" Gimli wondered stepping over fallen rubble and debris. Anakin noting a blaster in the dwarf's hand as he pointed his stubby hand to Serra.

"Ser...Serra Keto." Anakin gasped. "She was a Jedi. She went missing during the attack on Coruscant. She must've been an agent for Sidious. For Palpatine."

"It would certainly seem that way." Galadriel intoned.

"She said so herself." Anakin added. "But there's more. I'm...I don't know."

"What is it, Anakin?" Merry asked coming up alongside him. Placing his small hand onto Anakin's other shoulder as the Jedi leaned on his knees.

"Sidious, Palpatine...not only is he behind the war. Not only is he the Sith we've been looking for, but…" Anakin shook his head. The thought of it making him tremor in anxiety tinged with fear and bewilderment. "It's why he asked you about Sauron. About the rings, and Morgoth. It's why he's been asking me about Arda, and…" Anakin began. Again shaking his head. Even as Gandalf watched in confusion, but only for a moment. Then the wizard's eyes widened and he turned to Galadriel once more. The elven woman turning her head to her hand. Where Nenya lay. Gandalf in kind glancing down to Narya upon his hand.

"He has a ring! He's made a ring of power!" Anakin finally loosed as everyone in the delegation now shared horror etched in their expression and eyes.

"How is this possible?!" Elladan wondered as he rounded from behind his grandmother.

"The powers of the Force, and the information he's been gathering from Arda...anything is possible." Anakin pushed himself back to a stand. Shaking still as he did. "I'm so sorry, Gandalf. I...I…"

"You are blameless!" Gandalf admonished with a stern look. "You could not have known who this man was, and what he could or would do."

"I told him too much!" Anakin rebuked. "I thought he was my friend. Someone to confide in! I told him about Sauron back when I was still on Arda, and all the power the One Ring had."

"One hears of such power," Elrohir offered from where he stood. "And fears its implication. Whilst another hears it and yearns to know such power. You could not have known." The elf offered while Galadriel stepped towards Serra's fallen body. A nearby human male Jedi kneeling beside her checking her pulse.

"The hearts of Men are easily corrupted." Galadriel intoned as she glanced worriedly to Nenya again. "This one," She glanced over shoulder to Anakin who met her gaze. "She told you he created a ring?"

"Yes." Anakin nodded. "In so many words. Sidious has a ring of power, and he's become stronger with it. The Jedi felt it." Anakin motioned his arm to the massive Great Hall. "I was knocked out...it's a long story. Anyways, there was a pulse in the Force when he must've put the ring on."

"We felt it." Gandalf interjected with a nod. "A sense of something was felt. A sickness."

"It must've been from the same source." Elrohir offered. Though he, his brother, the Lady Tauriel and the hobbits or Gimli had not felt what Gandalf and Galadriel had.

"Anakin!" Everyone turned as Bail Organa ran from a far side door. Likely having found a turbolift down from the upper walkways. A young padawan; seemingly at least and still braided, ran beside him. "What's happening?!" The Senator demanded as Anakin ran his left hand through his locks.

"A lot, Senator. Too much…" The Jedi groaned as he glanced to the clones at the entrance. All of them awkwardly staring down Jedi who had slowly made their way closer to them on the main floor.

"Senator," Anakin addressed Bail. "I'll explain everything I can in just a minute. But, I need to get these clones out of the Temple."

"I understand. I'll wait here." Bail nodded as he seemed to grow flustered by the sights of various dozens of dead clones, Jedi and security troopers.

"Wait here guys!" Anakin bounced into a backwards step and addressed the delegation. All of whom nodded. Standing alongside Bail in their own awkward observation of the dead and the battle scorching.

"We were here just a few days ago…" Pippin intoned. "It looks so different."

"War seems to do that wherever you go, Pip." Merry intoned knowingly. His friend nodding his agreement. Their minds flashing back to Arda.

"Commander!" Anakin roared. As he did so, he pushed past the shoulders of two Jedi who had formed up as part of the sloppy line of their fellow knights. Pushing between and beyond them he came to the divide between the two forces once more. The clones having their blaster rifles angled down, but clearly ready to fire if the proverbial shoe dropped.

Anakin swiveled himself sideways. Raising his arms and palms to both sides as he faced the clones. "Appo!"

"Here, General." The clone announced and stepped forward.

"You and your men are being used, Commander." Anakin began loud enough for the Jedi to hear. "The Supreme Chancellor is the Sith Lord behind the war! He is Darth Sidious! He is the one who has orchestrated the rise of the Separatists and who has sent us; all of us, into battle to die!" Anakin called indicating he meant Jedi and clone trooper alike. As he did he again saw Jedi who had not yet heard him before turn to their fellows in mixed emotions of pain, anger, outrage and sadness. Many of whom openly failed to release the welling emotions and sensation into the Force.

"I…" Appo began. "I...I'm sorry General." The Commander intoned. "Even if what you say is true it does not change the fact that he is the Supreme Chancellor." As he said it the Jedi all hardened. But, Anakin motioned his hand facing them to denote they would not attack.

"I understand that, however, you still have you orders! My orders!" Anakin noted with a sternness to his voice. "Any action you take against any Jedi here in the Temple will require me to hurt myself because of said actions or those of any clone. Am I clear?!"

"Sir...I..." Appo began. Again seeming unsure of this logic. However, Anakin turned to fully face him, snapping his right leg down and loosening a tremble through the Force that shook the ground around he, the Jedi and Appo.

"Commander," Anakin began. "If after what you've just watched me do; you think I am unwilling to do as I say, then you are either incompetent, or ineffective! Now, I have made my orders clear! Neither you nor your men, and neither shall any Jedi wheresoever within or just beyond this Temple attack the other! Am I understood?!" To the thunderous voice, aided by the power of the Force Anakin watched as the clones all recoiled. The power and command of their General shaking the 501st on instinct to do as ordered. While Appo also snapped to attention, and fluttered thoughts of Anakin consumed by bright white light flashed over his mind. Sensations felt by the clones who all had borne witness to what he had done, and the power he had unleashed. To a small degree, and very much un-clone-like, Anakin felt a tremble of fear also flow from them collectively. His show of power unlike what anyone had seen with their own eyes. Whilst the Jedi behind Anakin also took collective steps away. Anakin's declaration entailing them as well. Causing them to rethink any hidden thoughts they may have had of attacking. Such was not the Jedi way, but this treachery was clearly having a negative affect on the collective adherence to the Code. But, Anakin resolved himself. Eyes narrowed, and Force trembling with balled fists. If he would not allow himself to fall into the snare of Palpatine, then he would not allow the Jedi Order here to prove themselves worthy of purge!

"Ye...yes sir!" Appo finally announced. He gripped his blaster in his right hand at its center. Letting his finger off the trigger and raised it. While his left hand stood out. The rest of the clones doing as the motion instructed and lowering their guard. Standing at ease even if unsure and...frankly scared.

"Outstanding, soldier." Anakin nodded his approval. Raising his right hand he motioned it. "Master Hett, Master Ti, and all other Masters!" He called. "I need you to help pull everyone back!" A flutter of motion happened and in the instant after A'Sharad's form jumped from the upper floor to Anakin's side just behind him.

"Of course, Master." A'Sharad nodded and turned to the assembled Jedi as a shaky and pained Master Ti limped from the side wall.

"Everyone, do as Skywalker says!" She called, using the Force to make her voice louder. A few other masters Anakin did not know outright also worked their way to the front of the crowd, and from the upper walkways called to one another. Using their collective authority to order the knights, padawans, and errant fellow masters to step back. Though most Jedi needn't the aid of the other masters. Anakin's presence alone, and his words acting as incentive enough to do as the Chosen One commanded.

"Appo," Anakin barked once again. Taking a bold, but authoritative step towards the Commander. Who in kind twitched ever so much, but remained standing to attention and at ease. So, Anakin took the imitative and stepped forward until he was directly in front of one of many of his clone allies and friends.

"Now, I have new orders for you Commander. You and your men will remove yourselves from the Jedi Temple." Anakin raised his hand to cut Appo off before the man could refuse. "All troopers are to vacate the Temple, and form up positions for breach on any level they are currently on! If any trooper is on a level without a direct access or exit point they will move to the nearest exit. If you are given reason or reauthorized to advance on the Temple, or I am removed from command you will be in a position to immediately resume your orders upon the Jedi Temple." Anakin offered. Again utilizing the logic of the troopers and his position against their contingency programming. The troopers in kind seemed both bewildered, but also put at ease by the new order.

"Furthermore, I want all the battalions that have not yet reached and/or breached the Temple to form up a defensive posture at your rearguard. No one, not civilian, not police force, and not anyone else is to move on the Temple while you are conducting your rightfully ordered operations. Save for if I clear them. Am I understood?!"

"Yes, General sir!" Appo snapped to attention and nodded.

"Good." Anakin dared to, and did, pat the trooper's left shoulder with his hand. "Carry out your orders. I want a blackout of communication with anyone who is not on the ground and part of the operation. With the current emergency situation we cannot be sure if the government is issuing the correct orders, and I do not want you or your Legion to conduct any illegal actions. Clear?"

"Crystal, General."

"Good. Make the orders." Anakin again smacked Appo's shoulder and turned.

"Men, let's move let's move!" Appo began ordering harshly. As his adjutants began relaying further orders to fall in line with what Anakin commanded. Dozens of clones shuffling out of the Temple to take up breach or assault positions on the main floor and the upper walkways. Moving out onto the plaza and the balconies or outside walkways of the Temple. Many of whom were likely totally confused, but did as ordered. As good soldiers did.

Anakin watched them evacuate. Noting and hearing the Jedi behind him also move deeper into the Great Hall. He clasped his hands behind his back, and maintained the posture of a commanding officer for all clones to see as they did as he commanded. And a few long moments passed as he did so. Until every last trooper, at least in the Great Hall shuffled outside. Leaving their dead and the massacred Jedi or security troopers where they lay. Only then did he release a heavy huff of a sigh. His hands clasping his face and sliding them back through his hair before he turned back to everyone else.

Anakin noticed the delegation watching him. Feeling a small heat of embarrassment rise in him as he noted the smile on Gandalf's face. Along with those of Merry, Pippin and even gruff Gimli. Their emotions prickling at the edges of his senses of pride and encouragement. While Senator Organa showed deference and respect. Untold Jedi also watched him with that same measure of awe at what he had done. Both with the clones and with Serra.

"Skywalker." Anakin paused as Master Ti approached. Her left arm swung around her exposed stomach. Pain in her step.

"Master Ti. Do you need help?" Anakin wondered stepping forward and placing a hand on her slumping left shoulder. The togruta master only smiled and shook her head though.

"I appreciate the offer, but I'll make it. Master Kcaj is in more dire need than I, but your respite has given him a chance to heal." Shaak stepped aside allowing Anakin to look beyond her. As three healers helped the fallen council member where he lay.

"Good." Anakin nodded. "Maybe we can get some help from others to get him to one of the lower medical wings? Would be safer the further down you go. If the clones begin attacking again I mean."

"A good idea." Shaak nodded. "I'll work on that, but I must ask...is what you said about the Chancellor true?" She wondered even if Anakin could sense she already knew the answer. He was sure that in spite of everything any and every Jedi may have known or felt they knew, that many of them would ask the same question. If time had allowed them to. The idea and concept that the Supreme Chancellor; already on shaky footing among the Jedi, would be the Sith Lord himself?! That was near unfathomable. Yet, here they all were. In the midst of truth, and it was undoubtedly stranger than fiction.

"It is, Master." Anakin nodded. "He told me as much. Wanted me to join him. Become his…" Anakin turned his head. Anger flashing through him as he set his jaw and forced the emotions aside. Shaak watching, but not judging. "I told Master Windu." Anakin began again. "He took Masters Kolar, Tiin and Fisto with him to confront the Chancellor. I can only imagine based on Serra's presence, and everything else...they failed."

"I see." Shaak nodded. Her lekku twitching ever so slightly as her own emotions played through her mind. "I had known that Mace and the others had departed, but...not much else. Agen's lightsaber was a clue." She sadly intoned.

"I know. I'm sorry Master." Anakin offered, but she met his gaze with a hardened one of her own.

"You are not at fault, Skywalker! With what you have done here today, both before and tonight...you have little to be sorry for." Shaak was absolute to the point of perceived immobility.

"She's right, Master." Anakin turned right as A'Sharad neared. The tattooed man bearing an equally astonished look to him. His presence subdued, and powerful in his own right, but projecting a sense of power and resolve.

"Regardless, of everything that's happened you've done more than anyone could otherwise do to save not just the Temple, but our lives."

"Exactly that." Bail added as the Senator approached. "I may not be able to use or feel the Force, but what I saw...you are to be commended, Anakin." The Knight smiled and bowed his head. Heat rising in him. Even if a small voice in the back of his mind seethed. That same side and voice of himself engrossed in hunger for power, and anger. It whispered of how they'd reject him over what happened with Dooku. How they will come to see what Serra said. That Sidious wanted him, and therefore something is wrong with him! As they always thought. That this was a moment of crisis and they will laud him. Just to reject him again in the future.

"When this is all over," Anakin finally offered steeling himself. "Then we will see where everyone stands. For now, let's try to save the Order and what's left of the Republic."

"Here here!" Gimli called from the back. Anakin turned to the dwarf and smirked as the stout warrior praised him. "You'd have made a fine and hearty dwarf!"

"Thanks Gimli." Anakin smiled. Though it faded quickly as his eyes caught sight of a Jedi corpse along the ground. A bolt having melted through the woman's head.

"Okay…" Anakin breathed. "Guys, come over." He beckoned Gandalf and the delegation. Even if Galadriel and the wizard momentarily remained stood where they were. Looking over the fallen form of Serra Keto. A human man, with long grayed hair stepping over broken and fallen columns to her left. His tunic was gray like his hair, and his face etched in a stony sadness. As he knelt beside her. Eyes fixated on her. Cin Drallig turned his head to the wizard and elf. The elven woman bowing her head. Seemingly aware of the source of his sadness. As he said not a word, and grasped the woman's fallen right hand in his own. Staring in disbelief at what he saw. Their connection painful, and broken. An echo of once was…

Galadriel would finally turn and join the others. Gandalf, however, approached solemnly. Anakin watching in respectful silence even if some of the others didn't comprehend why. Though Gandalf needn't say a word. As Cin loosed a low, quiet and heavy breath. Gandalf simply placed a lone hand atop the Jedi's right shoulder. One would usually imagine the Jedi Battle Master to jump at a stranger doing so. Though he had seen Gandalf before. And, in this moment Cin merely turned to Gandalf and the wizard bowed his head. Their eyes meeting, and as though through the Force, a sense of clarity passed.

"Thank you." Cin whispered.

"None is needed." Gandalf replied. Before he too stepped away. He may not have exactly known why Cin seemed the way he did. Gandalf and Galadriel certainly were the ones most capable of discerning. So, more need not be known or said. It was as it needed be in a moment of humility and sadness. From one sentient being to another. As Gandalf turned and joined the rest of the gathered.

"Alright…" Anakin began as he formed a circle of the delegation, Bail and masters Shaak Ti and A'Sharad Hett. "We don't have a lot of time, and there's a lot to say. So, let me speak and say what I know." Anakin addressed everyone who nodded their mixed understanding.

"Chancellor Palpatine is Darth Sidious. To anyone who doesn't quite understand what that means, he's a Sith Lord. Basically the inverse of we Jedi. He is behind the war. Palpatine has orchestrated it to come out on top regardless of whoever wins or loses, and right now it definitely seems like the Republic is his choice." Anakin issued as Bail among all of them narrowed his eyes grimly.

"Masters Windu, Fisto, Tiin and Kolar went to confront Palpatine after I told them who he was. He had told me. Long story short he wanted me to join him...evidently I am disappointing him."

"Which is why the clones were under orders not to harm you." Hett noted and Anakin nodded.

"Correct...I learned from Dooku much of his plans."

"Dooku?" Bail questioned.

"The one Master Yoda showed me to?" Gandalf interjected catching the glance of Bail. Anakin nodded in response.

"The same. Yes, Senator, he woke up just this morning I think. Or sometime before...I'm not sure. The Council didn't want anyone to know because well...politics." Anakin offered as Shaak listened and remained silent. A'Sharad turning to her, and noting her silence. "Looks to me like whatever happened between you and Dooku may have helped wake him up." Anakin addressed Gandalf. "Which is why I know what's going on."

"That being?" Pippin wondered.

"It's going to be hard to explain this in ways you guys from Arda understand, but bare with me." Anakin intoned. "Palpatine has wanted me to join him for years now. Who knows how long, maybe from the beginning? He's also been playing both sides of the war, as I said. Now, he has activated Contingency order 66."

"66?" Bail repeated.

"Yes, Senator." Anakin answered as Shaak turned to Bail.

"Commander Appo himself admitted as much before your arrival. The Chancellor is using the Contingency order to kill all the Jedi." Shaak added.

Not just here," Anakin darkly continued. "But, everywhere in the galaxy."

"We should warn all yer' friends then!" Gimli noted seemingly understanding the gist of the problem.

"I've already sent someone to make a general call to all Jedi from the hub, don't worry Gimli."

"Quick thinking, Skywalker." A'Sharad nodded. "Who'd you send?"

"Uh...Kholt I think her name was?"

"Kholt?!" Shaak jumped at the name. Anakin grimaced but raised his hand.

"There's an explanation behind why she and her friend aren't guarding Dooku, Master. We don't have time." To that Shaak's eyes searched Anakin's before she relented and nodded.

"Very well." She intoned and Anakin internally cringed as he began again.

"I've ordered her friend to gather as many of the younglings as possible and get them down into the catacombs of the Temple. Hopefully find some of the ancient turbolift access routes. We should get some more Jedi to help round up all creche members and padawans who aren't ready for another attack to follow in their wake."

"I'll get on that." A'Sharad offered.

"Good. I also want the Jedi who are still battle capable to be ready. Who knows when Palpatine realizes that the attack here is paused. But, whenever he finds out he may issue a new order to override me. If and when that happens I won't be able to stop Appo...peacefully." Anakin intoned. Not liking the idea of having to kill any clone.

"I'll rally the rest of the Order." Shaak answered. "Them and the security forces. If the clones attack again this time we will be prepared."

"Good." Anakin nodded. "Not to overstep my authority, but I think you two should get to it."

"Right away." A'Sharad replied and jumped into a run towards the interior of the Temple. Shaak gave a thin smile. Anakin wasn't sure what for, but wordlessly she followed his instructions and; though still weakened and limping, she followed after Hett. Making for a group of Jedi further in the Great Hall.

"Senator Organa," Anakin turned to the man. "I hope you have some idea of how we could stop Palpatine on a political level?" Anakin sheepishly and hopefully wondered as Bail stood furiously tapping his right hand's index finger to his head.

"Order 66...it's been so long since anyone on the Loyalist Committee has seen the list of contingency protocols." Bail noted. "At the time they seemed for the most part innocuous. Now they seem utterly obscene."

"Is there's anything you can think of that can potentially undo the activation of the protocol?" Anakin wondered. Bail wagged his finger towards Anakin. Turning where he stood as a thought clearly came to him.

"Order 65!"

"Huh?" Anakin replied as Bail circled back around.

"Order 65! That's it!" Bail continued. "One of the contingency protocols explicitly deals with the removal of the Supreme Chancellor! Obligating the Grand Army to disregard any active orders by the Supreme Commander at the time. That being the-"

"Supreme Chancellor!" Anakin finished. A flash of adrenaline spiking at the hopeful idea. "How can we initiate Order 65?" Anakin wondered as his friends from Arda watched the two talk to one another.

"It won't be easy." Bail noted as he cupped his chin. "I need to get in contact with members of the Delegation of 2,000. I don't think we have the votes…"

"What do you mean?" It was Gandalf who asked and Bail turned to the unknown man and answered.

"Activation of Contingency Order 65 requires one of two prerequisites to be met. The first is a majority vote by the Senate for removal of the Chancellor." To that Anakin scoffed.

"He all but has control over the Senate!"

"True, Anakin, true." Bail nodded. "Which is why the second option is the more likely one."

"That being?"

"A simple majority vote by the Senate Security Council for his removal from command." To that, Anakin felt a bit more hopeful. But, even still the look on Bail's face betrayed his own misgivings of the idea.

"Who's on the Security Council?" Anakin asked.

"I'm not sure of every allocated seat. I know that last week Mon Mothma; a close friend and ally we can count on, was rotated onto a seat. That and I know the sitting Chairman, Zafiel Snopps, Senator from Corulag."

"Would he support activating Order 65?" Anakin asked.

"I'm not sure." Bail gravely intoned. "He is a practical man, but not what one would call idealistic. Regardless," Bail shook his head. "Even if he did not vote for the removal of Palpatine we only require a majority vote. The Security Council is made up of twelve members. We're already up one."

"Only needing five more for deadlock." Merry was the one to state. "At least that's how elections in the Shire work for Sheriff or Mayor."

"No, you're quite right, sir." Bail replied. "We need seven votes. Six would deadlock the Council and who knows what Palpatine would do in the meantime." Bail paused thoughtfully once more. Shaking his head. "I need to contact my colleagues, and Mon Mothma in particular. She will certainly know more about the Council."

"Who else?" Anakin wondered. Not sure exactly who to trust, but the face of one Senator did come to mind.

"Senators Danu, Mothma of course, Amidala, Zar and Papanoida to name a few." Bail answered. One of the names catching Anakin in the throat and heart all at once. Suddenly reminded that he had not contacted Padmé in hours! Knowing she must've been worried sick. But, right now he couldn't take the moment to call her. As much as he hated it! He had more he needed to do. And, he knew if and when Bail called her she would know what he was doing. She would do what she could, regardless of whether Anakin called her directly or not.

"You do whatever you need to do, Senator." Anakin finally ordered. "I need to work on getting whatever Jedi escaped their clones off world back to Coruscant. Or, at least out of harms way…"

"Maybe Coruscant would not be the most safest of places, lad?" Gandalf offered after having listened intently.

"You have a point but anywhere besides the Jedi Temple is free game for the clones. The reason I've ordered them to form a rearguard and cut communications is to form a barrier between us and anyone else. No civilians, like those COMPOR hacks, or police forces, or any other regiments from the Grand Army."
"Wise thinking." Gandalf smiled.

"Indeed." Bail agreed. "Don't worry, Anakin, I will have my people send out ships! Give me a list of emergency frequencies the Order may use, and I will have my people pick up as many as they can."

"Appreciated Senator, but...I don't want you to potentially get caught. With how fluid everything is, if you're caught harboring Jedi-"

"The Chancellor does not yet have total control." Bail cut Anakin off. "My thoughts? He will call for an emergency session of Congress in the morning. If so, that's when we need to uproot him." Bail kept going through his line of thinking. "Once the session is called, I and the rest of the Delegation will call for an emergency meeting of the Security Council. If we have the votes by then; which we will need, we can put forward a motion for the activation of Order 65! There while the cameras are rolling. The issuance of the Order will be inescapable for the clones. We disseminate the protocol and move for a vote of no confidence."

"Even if you do, his cronies won't vote him out." Anakin perceived.

"Maybe not, but in the chaos, if we can prove to the public he is in fact a Sith Lord, or that he had issued the attack on the Jedi there will be public blow-back."

"How can you be certain?" Galadriel of all people wondered as she finally spoke. "From what has been easily seen by my eyes and perception, the people of this world feel this man protects them. It would be difficult to dispel the power he holds." As she finished Anakin saw Bail sigh. His eyes averting thoughtfully. However, Anakin then had a thought strike him.

"Me." Anakin whispered. Everyone turning to him as he did.

"Whats that laddie?" Gimli prompted.

"Me! He wants me!" Anakin declared again. "If I can get to him, and get him to admit to his role in the war, then we transmit it. The Senate would be hamstrung! The people would see him for who he really is, and in a blink," Anakin snapped his left hand's fingers. "The political tides can turn! Never underestimate how fickle people can be."

"Nor how they could surprise you with good." Gandalf offered. Clearly believing the opposite of what Galadriel did for the total populace.

"That too." Anakin smiled. Long having known not to question the wizard's wisdom.

"Alright, I need to head for the Senate, and get everyone appraised!" Bail offered. "That and get my people collecting any Jedi survivors."

"I'll make sure Appo knows your people are allowed through. Send their details to me once you have it figured out Senator."

"Will do." Bail nodded and turned to his young chaperon who looked on at all the discussions with a mix of confusion, and awe. Much like the rest of the Jedi.

"Oh, and Senator!" Anakin called, causing Bail to turn to him. "Thank you."

"It is you who should be thanked, my Jedi friend." Bail smiled. It was a bit sad considering what they were surrounded by, but heartfelt. Before he turned and bid his companion to lead the way to...wherever he had come from.

"Well, now that all of that is said and done, what need have you for us laddie?!" Gimli boisterously stepped forward and wondered. Anakin smirking at his stout comrade's urgency to act.

"With this Darth Sidious having a ring of his own, he will have incredible power." Elrohir noted. "These powers we have witnessed among the Jedi will undoubtedly be added to by a ring, would it not Mithrandir?"

"It would." Gandalf affirmed. "You should take great care should you go before him again, Anakin." He cautioned, but Anakin sighed.

"I have to, Gandalf. I need to get him to admit to who and what he is. Something!"

"But," Pippin stepped forward. "What if he can use his ring to twist you? The One was able to do so without even touching it."

"He's right Anakin." Merry nodded. "We don't know what this ring could do, but if it's anything like the One it could corrupt you."

"Trust me, I know." Anakin answered. Watching as the members of the Fellowship had a flash of memory, as they recalled Anakin having held the One. Even if for but a few moments.

"Aye, even still we should do something to help you laddie!" Gimli pressed and swung his blaster up towards the ceiling. "If this Sidious, or whoever thinks he can wield a ring it won't be long til' he comes for Arda!"

"Gimli's right." Gandalf agreed. "This man seems to have learned enough to make a ring. Then he will undoubtedly come for Arda and seek out all knowledge of ring-making and crafting with fell purpose."

"Should we not warn those on Arda?" Tauriel wondered but Galadriel shook her head.

"It will be too late at this point. We must stop this being here and now. Before he has time to gather and strike beyond what he has done thus far."

"You seem to know best." Elladan addressed Anakin. "What would you ask of us?"

"I'm with my brother." Elrohir bowed his head. "If I can be of service, I place myself at your direction."

"Aye, as do I and Pip!" Merry offered and the rest did as much silently. Anakin laughed ever so lightly and shook his head. Finding this day to be insane. His right hand coming up and cupping his forehead in thought and no small amount of exasperation.

"Let me think…" Anakin intoned. "Gandalf," He tilted to the wizard. "I don't want to ask too much, but…"

"Ask it, and you will have it. So long as it is within my power, my friend." Gandalf assured placing a comforting, and much needed hand on Anakin's shoulder. The Jedi smiled and felt a bit of energy return to him as he nodded thankfully.

"Okay...regardless, of how we deal with Palpatine's control over the military we need to subdue him."

"Capture him?" Tauriel guessed.

"More or less." Anakin shrugged. "If he does not come peacefully I will fight him. He cannot be allowed to continue his corruption of the Republic. Let alone wield a ring freely in the galaxy! If he manages to have his way he may well become unstoppable."

"A frightening thought, but you are correct." Galadriel portended.

"Which is why I'm asking if you wouldn't help me try to bring him in, or subdue him...fight him if we must, Gandalf?" The wizard reclined his head, and Anakin wondered if he was reconsidering his offer. However, the second after he nodded. Relieving Anakin from an incredible weight on his shoulders.

"Of course, my lad. Whenever and wherever this task may come I will be there."

"As shall I, Mithrandir."

"Grandmother?" Elrohir questioned Galadriel, but she bade him to listen.

"This ring, if we are not cautious it could be used for great evil beyond even that of Sauron. With the powers this world and this Chancellor wield even the ills of Morgoth could be made paltry examples of evil." It was a dark portend, but one everyone needed to hear. It was real. It was the truth. Regardless of how one felt it had to be said and heard, and heard it was.

"We know not how this ring was made, and therefore if it can be broken as the One."

"If it is fashioned in the way of lesser rings we may be able to destroy it on our own." Gandalf offered to Galadriel.

"We shall hope that is the case, Mithrandir. Until we have it within our sights we cannot know. For that reason, and much more I shall join you when you confront this man. The powers of Nenya and Narya are faded. The destruction of the One has sapped them of their powers."

"But, perhaps in the presence of another ring they may have a spark of power within?" Elrohir finished the thought of his grandmother who nodded.

"Perhaps. All the same, we must do whatever we can. Regardless, of the rings or not."

"Agreed." Gandalf nodded.

"That answers it for some of us!" Gimli announced. "But, what about meself' and the others laddie?!"

"Hmm…" Anakin hummed, and a thought crossed him as he did.

"Merry, Pippin I'm going to call my...Senator Amidala-"

"You need not hide your secrets here, laddie." Gimli huffed. Anakin cocked his brow. But, then remembered Gandalf, Merry, and Pippin knew. While the elves had undoubtedly heard him when he spoke about Padmé to Gandalf.

"How did you-"

"Bah!" Gimli snapped. "You hide your feelings terribly! I could see from the moment me eyes saw your lady you were enamored! That, and I overheard the hobbits here." Gimli chortled and the two halflings both turned red and sheepish.

"Ah kriff there's no time to even get into you two's inability to keep quiet."

"At least we didn't say it to him on purpose!"

"Never mind it." Anakin waved them off. "We've got far more important things to take care of."

"Aye, agreed!" Gimli huffed.

"Okay, so you two I want to go be with Padmé."

"We can fight!" Merry interjected, and again Anakin had to wave the two hobbits down.

"Trust me, I know. I'm not trying to push you two out of the way. I want people I can trust around those I care about. Not only that," Anakin smirked. "If there are offworld delegates around those Palpatine may view as a threat, and he attempts to send anyone after them, he may think twice. Especially you guys from Arda. He will undoubtedly want you lot captured if he wants to know more about the history of the elves and Arda."

"Aye, he's already tried it!" Gimli announced and Anakin furrowed his brow.

"Huh?"

"We've been locked in our suite for a good portion of the day." Gandalf answered. "Troopers were sent to keep us there. But, your wife and your two droid companions helped us make an escape."

"Threepio and Artoo?!" Anakin wondered.

"The very same. They actually got us here. Per your wife's instructions."

"She is amazing." Anakin scoffed and laughed. "Good. That makes things easier. Miss," Anakin turned to Tauriel of all people and she herself looked shocked.

"Yes?"

"I'd like it if you went with Merry and Pippin to stand watch over my wife...and children. If Sidious wants me for his own gain I wouldn't put it past him to try and use my wife and twins as leverage. Having you three there would potentially offset any attempt he could make, but I know you two can fight." Anakin pointed to the hobbits then turned to Tauriel. "And, Obi-Wan has vouched for your skills, miss." The red haired elf maiden glanced at her companions. None voicing any reason for her not to.

"I'll do whatever I can." She smiled thinly, much to Anakin's unspoken thanks.

"Alright, now Gimli, you and you two," Anakin turned to the twin sons of Elrond. "I think I'll have you three stationed with other members of Bail's group. But, I'm not sure yet. Regardless," Anakin shook himself as his mind raced through ideas. "Until I think of something I'll have you three stay here at the Temple. Along with Gandalf and Galadriel until we're ready to make our move. If that's okay?"

"Wherever you need us, you have us." Elrohir offered for both he and his brother who nodded.

"Good...very good. Gandalf, you Gimli, Galadriel and the twins move deeper into the Temple. I'll show you where. I need to see how our defenses look." Anakin began and turned. Beginning to walk back towards the interior of the Great Hall and towards the depths of the Temple.

"Merry, Pip, and Tauriel, you three come with me. Show me where Artoo and Threepio dropped you guys off. From there you three head to Padmé's apartment."

Anakin went over every step in his mind. Racing ever on as he continued wondering what he should do, or could do. What his next move should be?! The night was hardly over, and tomorrow was already blending in together with it.

---

He tilted his head around the corner of a column. Having heard the trample of boots running past. Even over the ruffle of carpeted floors. Kit glanced right and then left. The hall momentarily quiet even if down to his right three red marked security clones moved off. As they ran far beyond him Kit reached a shaking hand up. Calling the Force to him as he reached forth, and unheard; at least hopefully unheard, he called one clone's comlink to him. It clipped free of his retreating armored body, and flew hastily across the open hall to Kit. He snatched it and wordlessly grunted in pain.

The nautolan Jedi loosed a seething sigh as he pulled himself back around the column and ducked low. Pushing himself inside of a droid ventilation chute. Using the Force to pull the grate back down at the entrance. He awkwardly sat himself inside of it. His every sound and breath reverberating in his ears while his chest burned and made every movement of intake or outflow of breath unbearable.

He lightly slammed his head back into the metal wall as he pulled the Force around himself. Trying desperately to stave off the pain, and death itself. In the silence of his mind he had to pull on those things that gave him reason to keep on going. In spite of all he had seen with Palpatine and his friends. Both Agen and Saesee down. He didn't know about Mace, but before he had managed to escape Palpatine's office he had felt such an unforgiving darkness...one he had not known possible until that moment.

Still, Kit fought to not focus on that. Even if his chest thrummed with burning pain and his body ached all across otherwise. His mind flowing to Aayla. The darkest corners of his thoughts and adrenaline addled confusion he now felt pushed at the memory of his...friend. Friend whom he knew deep within he felt more for. But, he shook himself. He couldn't go there. Not now. He drew on her memory though. Her image, and those of all the Jedi in the Temple or beyond. The Force had been howling for a while now. In and out of consciousness he had flowed. Every time he awoke to the world the Force was in pain, echoing of distant horror. He wasn't stupid. He may not have known just what was happening, but something was happening. Being so close to that presence, that Sith creature, Kit knew it had something to do with him.

This was the longest he had managed to keep himself awake now. Even hyperventilating through every movement of his chest and the open burnt gash to his insides, he brought the stolen comlink up. He snapped at the dial and entered in a code. Activating the comlink swiftly after, but only setting it for quick communication and not a full blown call. Pressing his finger onto it he brought it to his lips.

"M…" He began but mumbled as the pain wracked him. Squinting through it, and gritting his teeth he tried again. "Ma...Mace?" He called.

After he had escaped the room Kit distinctly recalled not feeling the Master of the Order's presence fade. He didn't know if he was being stupid, or foolish in trying to call him, but he felt obligated to do so. Saesee and Agen's losses were a lot to bare. Perhaps he was just hopeful? But, even if that was all he was, Kit didn't know how much longer he could or would last here. Perhaps he should try the Temple? But, by the will of the Force or just his own pain addled mind, he tried Mace first.

"Mace? Are you there?" He whispered in a seethe of pain. His voice echoing in the vent. He loosed his hand off the communication trigger and waited. Hearing nothing as he rested his head back against the metal wall. The coldness of it welcome as he felt his mind prickling, and unconsciousness calling to him once again.

"Kit?" His dark eyes opened up. For a moment he sat silent. Glancing both left and right. Wondering if he had just hallucinated the voice replying to him…

He picked the comlink back up and pressed the trigger again. "Mace?"

"It is you!" Mace replied, and Kit beamed a large smile. Loosing one harsh and badly thought out laugh from his chest. Coughing and gripping the comlink's trigger tightly as he did so.

"You don't sound good." Mace spoke.

"I'll live." Kit heaved and snapped his head back to the wall. Gasping as he did. "I'll be alright. H...how are you?" He wondered through the pain.

"I've been better." To that Kit creased his brow.

"What's wrong?"

"How…" Mace began. Pausing for a moment before he kept going. "However, Palpatine manged to not die I don't know."

"I felt it. What ha...happened?" Kit asked, his arm shaking and dropping the comlink to his lap after.

"I don't know. All I know is that he's alive. He hit me with a Force push unlike anything I've ever felt."

"How bad is it?" Kit asked, bringing the comm up and dropping it again as he intuited his friend to also be in some sort of bad shape.

"I'm probably better off than you. Fairly certain a few of my ribs are broken. Though I'm hopeful it's only one."

"Hah!" Kit forced another pained laugh. His head almost spinning as he held the comlink to his face. "I'm pretty sure I'm missing parts of two ribs at least."

"That wound did seem pretty bad." Mace agreed.

"Feels even worse." Kit chuckled even through the pain. Receiving a gruff single laugh from Mace. Which was practically like making the man laugh out of control. Kit allowed the moment to wash over him. Resting his head once more, before bringing the comm back to his mouth.

"Have you tried raising the Temple?"

"Tried, but can't get through." Mace matter-of-factly stated. Kit opened his mouth to speak, but closed it as a flurry of thoughts racked his mind.

"Where are you?"

"Outside. I was thrown out of the office." Kit couldn't hide a small laugh. Dark as it was.

"What's going on out there?"

"From my vantage point and from what I've been able to pick up on the open comms the Chancellor has launched an attack on the Temple."

"Kriff." Kit replied with another slam of his head to the wall. The many anguishes of the day racking his mind body and spirit.

"Are you able to move?" Mace wondered after a moment of silence.

"Kind of." Kit began. "I keep falling in and out of consciousness. In a pretty bad spot to be honest."

"Right." Mace intoned. "Where are you?"

"Still inside the Annex. I think...a floor down from his office? I've gotten myself hold up in a ventilation chute. I think it's meant for droids."

"Got it. Stay where you are. I'm making my way back to the Temple. A bit slowly, but if I can get there and find some help we'll-"

"Come back for me?" Kit finished with a sad laugh. "If there's an attack happening on the Temple by the will of the Chancellor come Sith Lord, you know you need to get everyone there to safety, Master." Kit replied simply and matter-of-factly. Mace not responding. "Maybe I can...find a way out through these vent shafts?" Kit wondered. Though in truth he figured it was an unlikely prospect.

"Master," Mace finally began again. "You stay where you are. I will come back for you." Kit knew better than to argue with Master Windu. Even now when he categorically believed without a doubt the man to be, perhaps just a little, delusional. Still, he couldn't help but smile. Feeling the sincerity in his friend's voice.

"Thank you, Master Windu." Kit thanked. As he allowed himself to close his eyes and rest his head back again. Allowing the Force to wrap around him, and for consciousness to leave him. The sense of belonging that Mace gave him, enough to let him pass out comfortably enough.

---

Mace sighed and pocketed his comlink. Wincing as he did so. The Jedi Master tilted his hand back up just along his brow. Staring through a number of floors above and around him to the top level. After Palpatine had managed to somehow refuse to die, and thrown him quickly thereafter our into the city below, Mace remembered managing to unleash a blast of Force energy just before he hit the ground. He had, nonetheless, slammed into it. Rolling along a walkway deeper down into the spire levels of Coruscant than he had probably expected to fall into. Coming to a stop only after he skid along the ground and slammed back first into a mobile trash compactor unit.

He didn't know for how long he had laid there. But, eventually his eyes opened with a long low groan. Nobody had come around, or perhaps nobody saw or cared to see him? Either way he awoke, hand clutching his deactivated lightsaber, and a splitting pain in his left ribs. Where tender prods from his hand revealed broken bones. The power with which the Chancellor had loosed on him having been enough to kill anyone else. Were Mace not capable of raising a defense right before it had hit him. So, he counted himself lucky.

Now, he moved slowly but surely. From the upper to the lower levels. Not allowing himself to be caught on a single trajectory as he made his way back to the Temple. The fires and smoke of which had long since been seen by him. Having risen to the top level in time to see the first true smoke stacks rise. Thick black borne of burning and illuminating hot orange flames. His eyes basked in the fires from afar, and he fought to release the anger the welled up inside.

However, he had watched the patrols flying overhead. Seen the Coruscant police forces and clone troopers of the Coruscant Guard moving about the streets. He didn't know if they were out looking for him specifically, but Mace had seen the emergency broadcast. Watching it air over a public screen on one of the lower level street-ways.

"I've got to get back to the Temple." He intoned to himself. And, not for the first time since awakening. Slightly limping with every step, and hunched over from the pain that ripped through his left side the Master of the Order kept moving. Calling on the Force to give him speed and make his presence less than what it was. Escaping through alleys up a level, and down a level. Hoping beyond hope that when he got back to the Temple there'd still be a Temple and Jedi Order to find.

He was closer than Kit may have thought. Even if Mace could sense Kit to essentially accept his 'fate.' Mace just needed to get to one of the old access tunnels. Deeper and under the Temple. So, he jumped from the higher walkway he had been on to a deeper metal path below. Landing with a harsh and guttural throaty grunt of pain as he clanged onto it from his boots. Jaw set, and teeth grinding as he released the pain into the Force. Calling speed to his feet and boots. Turning and jogging as best he could deeper and closer to the Temple.

He was close...so close now.

---

"That's the gist of what I can say. I know it's quite a bit." Bail offered apologetically as he clearly seemed flustered. Padmé listened in to the whole thing in rapt overwhelmed stupification. Her mind reeling and her stomach twisted into knots of anxiety and fear. Even if she did feel at ease where Anakin was concerned. Even if she knew deep down there was a reason he wasn't calling her right this very second she wished he was. She'd make sure he paid for it later! So long as they...no! Her eyes set with purpose. She, Anakin and the twins, all of them were going to make it through this!

"Okay." Padmé nodded with her face turned to a stone fabrication of both earnest and feigned bravery, calculus and resolve. "What do you need from me Bail?" He smiled a thankful and relieved expression as he clearly rifled through some datapads on his end.

"You're one in a million, Padmé! Thank you." He beamed, and seemed to sit himself down wherever he was. Flustered and even seeming sweaty which was less than the norm for Bail Organa. Padmé obviously knew why.

"Okay, if we're going to do this we have to do this right and we have to do it now. Our first obstacle is that it's night. Most of the Senate should be passed out."

"Or, at the usual lavish balls and banquets." Padmé countered and Bail relented with a shrug.

"True. Or, the attack on the Temple has roused them from their sleep by their staff. The point is, is that we need seven votes on the Security Council. I know Mon just got rotated onto a seat last week, I think?"

"She did. Not that she made a big deal about it."

"Then we'll have to make a big one for her, Padmé." Bail retorted. "Do you know of anyone else on the Council? Namely anyone we can count on for a vote pulling the plug on Palpatine's control of the Grand Army?" Padmé tilted her head back. Reclining herself on the lounge seat of her veranda as she fought through a frenzied jumble of thoughts to sift through her knowledge of the Senate.

"Malé-Dee. Senator from Uyter. He came with me when we met with Palpatine just today. I know he's on the Security Council. He would surely vote against Palpatine if we presented him with a good enough reason."

"All he needs do is look out his window for that." Bail thought aloud. "Okay, I'm pulling Mon into the call."

"Got it." Padmé nodded. Waiting a moment as Bail's blue visage displayed by her comm jutted to the side and made way for another small figure to come into being. Mon Mothma checking between both Bail and Padmé, however, they were being presented to her.

"Did you get my message, Mon?"

"I did...I can't believe it. Well...don't want to believe any of it, but here we are." The Chandrilan woman stated in stunned regard. But, she snapped herself to attention. Much as Padmé had. Taking a large steadying breath and loosing it from her lips as she observed her two colleagues.

"We're short on time, Mon." Padmé offered attempting to sound as sympathetic as possible. Even if she knew she sounded somewhat uncertain herself. But, as before an unknown rush of vigor shot through her. And again she felt a fire build within her core. "We need you to take point for us on the Security Council. We need names. Specifically who is beyond our reach and who can be counted on for a vote against Palpatine." Padmé pressed as Bail nodded.

"Padmé's right. We have one shot at this. Unless I'm proven wrong I am betting Palpatine will summon Congress for a special session come morning. That is if he doesn't get cold feet by what's going on at the Temple."

"I understand." Mon intoned.

"I believe Senator Malé-Dee is on the Council." Padmé began again. "Do you think we'd have his vote?" Mon chuckled softly to the question.

"You can count on it."

"Assuredly we have yours?" Bail questioned, but truthfully knew the answer as she cast him the most mild-mannered glare one had ever seen.

"How dare you Organa."

"I'm just making sure." Bail cast a tired smile. His expression returning to grim determination quickly thereafter. "That means we have two votes. Just five more. Mon, any ideas? How about Chairman Snopps?" Bail asked but Mon shook her head.

"I wouldn't count on Snopps."

"Is he a Palpatine loyalist?" Padmé wondered, but Mon's brow creased and she gave a shrug.

"It's hard to say what Snopps believes in. He's part of the old breed. Goes with the tides, or with the best deal offering made."

"Well, we may be able to use that if all else fails." Bail interjected thoughtfully. "Okay, let's put him in the to be decided column. Who else?"

"How about Cadaman?" Bail asked, looking down on his end. Likely at a list of names. "He's a signatory of the Delegation of 2,000 isn't he?"

"He is." Padmé nodded. "Represents Feenix, and has made his position known. Not a fan of Palpatine's constitutional amendments."

"Mon," Bail turned to her. "Can you shore up support from him and Malé-Dee?"

"I will get in contact with everyone we think is worth contacting." Mon raised her hands. Having no arguments.

"Let's not overwhelm Mon, Bail." Padmé added. "Give me a few names, and you take a few. Once we have a list of course."

"Fair enough." Bail nodded again. "Okay...oh…"

"What?" Padmé prodded as Bail looked a bit discomforted.

"Senator Greyshade is on the Council. Isn't he Mon?" Padmé watched Mon also twist her features in disdain before she nodded.

"He is. I don't recall him being in committee this week, but with everything going on we have only met once." Mon noted turning to look away from the comlink. "I've had my office and apartment cordoned off. I don't think they're listening, but I do think Palpatine is placing all members of the Security Council under guard."

"I'd figure as much." Padmé scoffed. "He's going to want to make a show of having everyone at the Senate if he does hold a special session."

"He has to!" Bail declared. "Without a statement made questions will begin being asked by the public. Palpatine is a populist and demagogue. He won't allow for the sight of the Jedi Temple burning and assassination...or 'pacification' of the Jedi to go unmentioned for long."

"For the sake of this play I hope you're right, Bail." Mon offered as she sighed again and rubbed her forehead quickly before offering a name.

"It's not only Greyshade I'd be worried about. That leech of Palpatine's, Tarkin, one of his cousins I think, is Senator of Seswenna. Shayla Paige-Tarkin. She's sincere in her admiration for Palpatine. At least far as I can tell. Less a crony and more a true believer. She'll be equally as adamant in her support of the Chancellor as Greyshade."

"Then we'll consider her and Greyshade to be our chief opponents on the Council and leave them where they lay." Bail countered. "If they catch wind of the move after we begin making our calls they may well try to...persuade those we sway to our side to their own."

"We need strong support then." Padmé intuited. "We have true believers on the Security Council. You Mon, as well as Malé-Dee and Cadaman. We just need to ensure every true believer on our side is steeled in their resolve to openly support the Chancellor's removal from his position as Supreme Commander."

"Not just that, my Lady." Bail added. "They need to be willing to openly initiate Order 65 right there on the Senate floor. Broadcast for the whole galaxy to see, and easily relayed to the rest of the Army."

"Whatever assurances we need offer or level, we need make then." Padmé continued with a steely conviction that was nothing short than fiery. Her two colleagues even silently noted it.

"Very well." Mon nodded again. "Alright, er...oh!" She snapped back to attention. "Senators Derlin and Dell!"

"Derlin?" Bail wondered. "Galen Derlin of Tiisheraan?"

"The very same." Mon acknowledged.

"You and him are close, aren't you Bail?" Padmé pressed knowingly.

"We are. I'll take him. I should be able to convince Galen to agree to the measure, no doubt!" Padmé smiled.

"Good. What about the other? Dell?"

"Harkon Dell, my Lady." Mon explained. "He's a junior Senator, but I've heard him voice displeasure with the Governor's enactment. I think I can get him to work with us."

"That being said and if we're lucky…" Bail trailed off for a moment then came back. "Including you Mon and assuming all those we've noted so far are in agreement that makes five."

"Dammit." Padmé seethed lowly enough not to be heard. "We need two more. Hit me with another name, Mon." She commanded and both Mon and Bail seemed to look over their own notes. However, Bail answered first.

"Senator Taa? Orn Free Taa is on the Security Council?!"

"Unfortunately." Mon scoffed and the three of them shared similar disgusted looks. The bloated twi'lek far beyond any hope of reconciliation.

"That bloated man would sooner run to Palpatine and kiss his boot for a few party favors before he'd vote him out of power." Padmé intuited grimly. "We should count him in Greyshade's camp."

"Maybe we could offer him something?" Bail wondered still looking down at his notes. "A higher committee chair? One of the Bank or Trade committees?"

"How far down the regime change rabbit hole are we going here?" Mon openly asked the million credit question. To which Bail tilted his head up and looked momentarily flustered.

"Mon...the time to imagine a 'possible day' in the future is over. The day is here, and it's now! If we don't act now we will doom a generation or more to dictatorship. We can act now, or tell everyone ten years from now that we could have, but didn't."

"Bail's right." Padmé agreed. "We have to act. Palpatine has already made his move and we've allowed him to consolidate too much power as it is. Only by the luck of a potential contingency order can we potentially uproot his grab for power. We're not just dealing with a corrupt politician! He's a Sith lord, Mon. He trained Count Dooku and that beast Maul. Regime change?! We're not talking about Separatism, like you said yourself, Mon. We're talking about saving the Republic. And the Republic we want to save is teetering on the edge! No more words of idealism are useful! No more ideations of a future moment! No more holding hands in limp solidarity for the meaning or ideals of democracy! It's democracy now, or dictatorship tomorrow!" Padmé pressed passionately. "If the regime need be changed for the greater good, then so be it! Because the regime in question is not the office of Supreme Chancellor. It's the corpse of the office of Supreme Chancellor. And the rot must be excised." Padmé uttered with an air of breathless zeal to her. Her brown eyes lit with a fire rarely seen from her. While both Bail and Mon listened. Neither seeming put off. In fact, it was the opposite. Both seemed enamored of her. Before both shook themselves lightly. Freed of her mystique before Mon relented and sighed.

"Yes...yes, you're right. Both of you. It's just...so sudden."

"Pivotal moments in history don't seem to like waiting for anyone to adjust." Padmé astutely offered. "All we can do is act when the iron is hot. So to speak."

"So, if we must offer a Senator a potential cushy job in a post-Palpatine galaxy, so be it." Bail intoned with a mix of resignation and commitment. Mon, for her part nodding her acquiescence.

"I understand. But...maybe Orn Free Taa is not the right twi'lek for the job, regardless?"

"In that, we're in agreement." Padmé smirked and the three allowed the momentary weight to pass between them.

"Okay…" Bail began again. "Strike Orn and let's see...here, Senator Vagger?"

"Vagger?" Padmé furrowed her brow. "He was one of the most ardent supporters of Palpatine's initial grant of emergency powers."

"Right." Mon added. "He's been one of the loudest and most sycophantic loyalists to Palpatine. I'm sure that aqualish would say it's more for the Republic, but everywhere Palpatine goes he's close to follow."

"He had a chip on his shoulder ever since Senator Nudo joined the Separatists." Bail scoffed. "Okay, let's count him a no-go." Bail clicked his tongue and moved his eyes down on whatever list he was on, but Mon offered a name first.

"I'd also count Senator Fema Baab out."

"Baab...Baab." Bail reclined his head. "Hasn't Baab been to a few meetings for the Delegation of 2,000?" Padmé hummed in response and nodded.

"She has. But...she's one of the junior members of the Loyalist Committee. I've seen her at Palpatine's functions. Fawning, and openly revelatory for the man."

"I Know Senator Bendon doesn't trust her. I wouldn't either." Mon noted with a sour expression. And, for Padmé, if Bendon didn't like the woman that was more than enough for her. Ithorians generally had a way of reading people, so why should Padmé think she or anyone else immediately knew better?

"Okay then." Bail began with a start. Running his hands over his eyes roughly to stave off the obvious weariness. "With her out of our reach that makes five we can get including you Mon, and five outside our reach."

"Which means there's two and we need them both." Padmé sighed, but immediately pushed aside the dejection threatening within. Quite easily in fact. "That means we need Senator Snopps and who else?"

"Senator Gem Sirrom." Mon answered her.

"I know Gem." Padmé smiled. "I think she'd be persuaded to our side if we present our evidence well enough. She's not part of the Delegation, but she is practical."

"Is she a Loyalist to Palpatine?" Bail asked, and Padmé gave a slight shrug.

"I've never seen her pine over the man. Nor outright speak against him. I think she's low key. Not out for too much glory, but takes her job seriously enough. If we can convince her voting in favor of activating Order 65 is better for the Republic then her vote would be winnable."

"Very good." Bail smiled. "If we can get Sirrom that makes six. But Snopps…" Bail groaned.

Padmé thinking of the man as she was sure Bail was. The Corulag native was a pragmatist, but mostly where his job came into being. Padmé figured it came from the man's background as an industrial magnate. He was crafty, shrewd, and not a zealot. Mostly because he knew how to work and worm through the interwoven fabrics of politics. He'd long ago made friends with Palpatine, but he was not one for openly rowdy public meetings or parties. Instead hosting his own of the socialite class and castes. A union buster, and businessman. Usually one in the same. But...he is a businessman.

"Leave him to me, Bail." Both Bail and Mon turned to Padmé quizzically.

"What? You mean Snopps?" Mon wondered.

"No," Bail began. "I think I can make a deal Padmé."

"I don't think he'd be willing to speak with you Bail." Padmé bluntly rebuffed. "He's a quiet business type. He'll need proper motivation and a proper deal. If someone further down the rung within the Delegation approaches him, such as myself then I think he'd be open for a proposal."

"What kind of proposal?" Mon questioned. Her voice betraying lingering apprehension she retained.

"One he's passionate for. Snopps is a tycoon type. Money coming to politics. But, I know from reputation that he's not ruthless. Not fully. If he can get a passion project or position, or some degree of guarantee for Corulag economically or so forth then I think we could, and I stress, could, potentially get him to vote with us."

"If he's as low key as you say then what if he doesn't want to stir the pot?" Bail wondered.

"I will convince him we will not fail. We use his practicality and business mindedness against him. He wants a good deal, we'll formulate one. He wants guarantees that the swoop he's betting on is a good bet, so we give him the data to prove it!"

"What do you have in mind then?" Mon pressed, but Padmé steeled herself. Remaining silent as her mind flashed to many ideas and contemplation. She curled her fingers between one another. From hand to hand and rested her chin atop them.

"Padmé?" Mon prodded her.

"Leave it to me. Trust me, I will think of something." Padmé assured. "Bail you work on Senators Sirrom and Derlin. Mon, you contact and get Senators Malé-Dee, Dell and Cadaman on our side. Leave Snopps to me. Agreed?" Padmé questioned. Her commanding air palpable to the two friends of hers. Both of whom glanced to one another before conceding.

"I think we're agreed." Bail spoke up.

"Alright. The sooner we get this done the better. I need to make a call. A tough call." Padmé intoned with a thin smile. Bail for his chuckled grimly.

"I wish you luck Padmé. And you Mon. May the Force be with us. We'll need it."

"May it be with us all." Mon repeated. Padmé silently doing so as well. Her children and husband flashing within her mind. And an indomitable determination burning within her very spirit, as a stray beam of moonlight danced across the emeralds within the pit of her newest and; for the time being, forgotten ring.

---

"Come along younglings. Come along! Keep moving." Jedi Master Bodo Baas bid. The krevaaki alien, tilted his body, draped in his own variant of Jedi robes, from right to left. A stream of young faces, with wide eyes and confusion tinged with fear showed back at him. As well as the line of Jedi knights and masters who lined the further ends of the long corridor to Bodo's left.

His large black eyes sadly watched as the little forms of children shuffled down the hall. A steady stream of them having continued to arrive moment after moment. Ever since the attack on the Temple began. By both miracle and command a Jedi Peacekeeper; a bith named Rowban, had been gathering dozens of younglings. The creche caretakers were the most recent additions. Finally finding the reprieve necessary to move through the Temple and escape with their younglings. Mobiles and hovering cradles filled with the youth of the Order, and its future had begun steadily increasing. In no small part due to the efforts of every Jedi here. The faces etched in heartbreak, and horror as sweat poured down the bodies and faces of those who could. Fear, unspoken, gripped their hearts. But, it was fear for these children. For the young, and most innocent of them.

Yet, everyone knew that this would not have been possible without the quick thinking and courage of Anakin Skywalker.

Every Jedi that now arrived here in the catacombs of the Temple knew that. Even Bodo Baas. Not one who reveled violence himself, and a long distant descendant of the great Jedi Weapons Master, Vodo-Siosk Baas, Bodo had all the same, battled in the Great Hall.

Much as his forefather of ancient days did, Bodo only wielded a long quarterstaff of Force imbued strength and fortitude. One which he leaned upon here in a dank and poorly cleaned tunnel that ran deep under the great ziggurat. Being a senior Master among the Jedi and over six-hundred years old, Master Hett had singled Bodo out from the gathered Jedi still within the Great Hall after Skywalker made clear he wanted the younglings and padawans made safe first and foremost. A position Bodo respected beyond measure.

He stood now at the turbolift exits. There were two side by side that came from the lowest floor of the Temple proper. They opened and closed near rhythmically. Every time they'd open a Jedi Knight who remained inside each would shoo and hurry the younglings out of it. They'd be a mess of tired, scared and confused. Some crying, and no master or knight heartless enough to try and stop them. But, more knights and masters would usher them into the long corridor. Same as Bodo did. Going from one knight or master to the next in a chain. Until they reached the far edges of the corridor where they'd find Peacekeeper and Knight Rowban. The bith hurrying a massive assortment of younglings, children and padawans into the under-levels of the great foundries and sewers of Coruscant. As Master Hett remained within the Temple with the grand majority of battle ready and capable Jedi. Both readying the Temple's defenses for another attack by the clones, and preparing transports to meet with the retreating Jedi beyond the limits of the Temple.

"Master Baas!" A voice called, and the krevaaki Master was shaken form his mirthless thoughts as a hulking cathar Jedi Knight ran to him breathless form further down retreat leading hall.

"Yes?" Bodo wondered with the natural deep warble of his voice as the cathar heaved a breath.

"I...I…"

"Breathe, my friend." Bodo bid. The cathar in kind nodding and taking a large gulp of oxygen before pulling himself to his full and hulking height.

"I scouted the topside of the city outside of the Temple District. I didn't see any clone speeders, gunships or patrols."

"That is good news." Bodo offered, but tilted his chitinous head as the cathar didn't seem relieved. "What else is there?" Bodo wondered.

"Coruscant Security Force, Master! I've seen CSF patrols practically choking the speeder-ways above."

"Ah...I see." Bodo shook his head. His tentacle appendages; his hands, snaked around his quarterstaff sadly as he grumbled. "The Republic must have authorized the CSF to choke off the surrounding districts beyond the Temple."

"Would they really...I mean would they attack us, Master?" The cathar asked. His face a mixed pained thing of disbelief. Bodo in kind uttered lowly and closed his eyes. Searching the Force for an answer. To which he received but a the usual the Jedi did whilst on Coruscant of late. A dark foreboding sensation of unease.

"Difficult to see, and difficult to know." Bodo intoned darkly. "We should use our instincts in this matter. Leave nothing to chance."

"Yes, Master." The cathar nodded.

"My instincts tell me they would attack. Even if they would not they may reports our movements. We cannot assume the 501st Legion is the only active clone force in operation on Coruscant. They may use the Coruscant Guard units from the Senate to cut us off and attack."

"Yes, Master." The Knight agreed.

"Return to the front and tell Rowban to keep all the younglings to the sub-levels. We'll need an evacuation route from a ventilation pipe perhaps? The industrial sized ones could allow for a whole mob to walk out…"

"Master?" The cathar prompted as Bodo shook his head.

"I'm merely thinking, child." Bodo groaned sadly. "Regardless, let's get all the children to one of the old substations deeper down into the lower cities. Maintain movement only, and I mean only, through the industrial sewer and garbage access tunnel systems! No streets, and no walkways. Not until we have adequate means of escape."

"Yes, Master." The knight all but jumped as he turned with a flutter of his grime laden brown robes and dashed with aid of the Force back up the hall. Moving beside the endless contiguous line of frightened children. Bodo incapable to believe he and the Jedi were all but criminals. On the run and hiding through sewers and garbage ducts the size of industrial parks from the CSF and clone army.

"What's happened to us? To this galaxy?" He wondered. Imagining for a moment if this is what Master Vodo felt when Exar Kun fell to the dark side, so many millennia before?

The turbolifts opened again. An aqualish Jedi hurried a group of three small younglings out of it beside Bodo. One of them a young human girl, with curly but unkempt blonde hair sniffled. Draped in her padawan robes she tilted herself from right to left. Looking at the ugly and strange place she was in. Her two companions, a human boy and slightly older female zabrak stepped beyond her. Tears flowed the blonde child's face. Dirtied, likely by some fire within the upper levels of the Temple.

"Come child." Bodo knelt himself low. His right tentacle-hand slid around his quarterstaff as he came to her level. "It's alright." The krevaaki cooed. "Your brothers and sisters of the Order are here."

"Ye..yes Mas...Master!" She hiccuped as best she could as she rubbed her eyes of the tears. Embarrassed by the show of emotion. Bodo, however, reached his free left hand out and pat it atop her brow and hair.

"We will make it through this, child. I know you fear. I know you're scared, and it is no great evil to feel as much. Do as we say, the Knights and Masters. Follow your instincts and the Force will not let you down."

"I...I w-" She hiccuped in fears and tears again. "Will t...t...try!" She loosed another bout of tears that hotly flowed down her face. Bodo hummed lowly and kept a comforting hand atop her head. Allowing the child to cry, and to feel comfort from the hand of one she should trust in a dark hour such as this.

"We'll be alright. All of us, and you." Bodo patted her hair down from the wildness of its current state. "Now, be a strong girl for us! Be a strong Jedi, and follow your brothers and sisters. Can you do that?" Bodo asked in calm and even a manner. To which she nodded heartily through the tears and shaking of her body.

"O...okay!" She nodded

"Good, child." Bodo bowed his head, and she did so too. Clumsily, but it meant more than enough for Bodo. Who stood, and slid his hand to her shoulder. Turning her to the line of younglings and next knight in the chain who passed Bodo a nod. As the krevaaki handed her off to the older woman. In kind shushing and calming her as they kept all the younglings moving.

"Damn the Sith for this…" Bodo intoned lowly. Releasing the welling anger into the Force. Even as he felt it prickle at his mind. Pulling to to turn down the hall as two Jedi knights rounded a corner from an access corridor to a maintenance turbolift they had been sent to guard.

"Master Baas! Master!" One of them called. Bodo and many others turned or glanced their way. "We need help!" The same knight, a young human man called. As his colleague; what seemed to be a similarly aged miraluka man, hauled another human man into sight. The dark skinned being had an arm swung around the miraluka as the human knight came and draped the other around his right shoulder. All Jedi who could see staring in gaped awe, and shock.

"Master Windu!" Bodo called, and the Master of the Order lifted his weary head up to look upon him from afar.

"S...Skywalker!" Mace groaned loudly. "Bring me to Anakin!" He ordered as he half limped draped between the two Jedi. A sight few had ever seen Mace Windu to be in.

It was hardly the oddest thing to be witnessed tonight.

---

L's Note: Managed to get this one edited a bit more quickly than the last! As always if you find any egregious grammatical errors let me know and I will fix them ASAP! Things are getting wild are they not my friends? :D

As usual thanks to EVERYONE who left a review for the last chapter! You guys are the main reason Lord Exar Kun keeps going! Nothing feels better than seeing thoughts, and reactions (and helpful criticisims)!

Furthermore, I (L) will be posting a link in the profile. This will lead people to something I'm going to try. Me (L). I have set up a twitter to act as a gateway to a site you can donate to Lord Exar Kun on. He's not hurting for money or anything! But, if you want and more importantly, if you CAN, send a few his way feel free. The story is not predicated on it. Just a nice thing I'm trying to do for him. If it goes fine, I'll keep it. If not I'll get rid of it. Anyways, I digress. Your reviews are more important I and he assure you! :D

Valdaran - Quenya Roughly equates to Blessed-King

Till the next one!

-L

Edit Note: Edited/Updated 03/28/2022