Memory of the Apprentice

by NoFear Phantom

The clone wars and Time travel. Guess who? It Galen, the Sith assassin. He has only the barest of memory and has awoken on the planet of Christophsis. Should he really care about the war? No. Should he care about the memories he has lost? Yes. (Starts episode 216, goes into the movie, then into the series)

6. The Crystal Mine: Consequence

I don't own Star wars, it belongs to lucasarts, George lucas and Disney

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Like long chapters? After many months? With a different title than what was promised?

And I accept any grammar and spelling mistakes. I want to fix. I just down have as much time any more.

Enjoy.

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Chapter 6: The Crystal Mine: Consequence

Anakin, Obi-wan, Rex and Sparks.

Moon of Christophsis. Venator-Class Republic Attack Cruiser.

General Kenobi's Cruiser: The Negotiator

"So you didn't attack the blockade because you got a bad feeling?" Obi-Wan said sarcastically staring at Anakin who tried to explain why he hadn't attacked.

"Hey you're the one who's always saying I should think before acting." Anakin said defending himself. It wasn't that strange that had decided not to attack. If anything he was expecting praise for it not surprise that he hadn't attacked. Was he that predictable?

"Yes but I didn't think you would actually listen." Obi-Wan responded without a second thought answering Anakin's internal question. "The only lesson I've ever taught you that you have ever taken seriously, was to trust your instincts."

"And I have by trusting them now. I seem to recall my instincts saving you many times before." Anakin said crossing his arms with a smirk.

"If you can name 5 times, I would be impressed." Obi-wan said knowing that Anakin had saved him at least once. All the other time he wouldn't admit to.

"Corsucant, Genonsis, Moon of Naboo, kamino and the hanger with the Rancor." Anakin answered without missing a beat.

"Being captured isn't a rescue and I had a plan on Corsucant." Obi-wan answered confidently, coming to the conclusion that since Anakin being captured with senator amedala on Genonsis was the opposite of good and the time he caught Obi-wan as he was falling to death on Corsucant was all part of Obi-wan's plan.

The other times were actually times Anakin had saved him. The moon of Naboo incident was when Anakin fought off Ventress and Durg, the first battle of Kamino was when Anakin picked him up when he crashed into the sea during said battle, and the hanger with the Rancor was when he was escaping Ventress.

Anakin could let the rescue on Genonsis slide but not Corsucant. "You were falling from 2000 metres in the air! How could you possibly have a plan?" He questioned thinking about the assassination attempt.

"Same way I got a plan for this blockade. A bit of charm mixed with wisdom. And its right here."

Anakin looked at the empty docking bay his master was gesturing too and walked towards the empty dock. "Charm and wisdom? Right, because charm and wisdom are something you can touch? Here, let me touch his charm and wisdom behind you an-" Anakin stopped talking as he felt his hand touch something solid.

"Hm, I was so sure you were going to kiss it." Obi-wan noted.

Anakin frowned and grinned as rubbed his hand against the invisible object. "A bit of warning would have helped." He continued smiling.

"I did." Obi-wan answered with a shrug before pulling a switch from his belt and pressing on the buttons. The next instant and blue light flickered and a long ship in the shape of an arrow appear stopping a number of clones who took a moment to stop their duties and admire the ship. "How to do you think I got this thing?" He asked with his own smirk looking at the prototype ship he had acquired.

Anakin sighed at his master wit before he smiled lightly to his friend. "Charm and wisdom."

Obi-wan nodded. "Charm and wisdom." Obi-wan repeated as Admiral Yularen approached the two of them.

"General Skywalker, General Kenobi." The admiral said with commanding and very distinct voice. Yularen by no means had a face for radio but had a grand voice for it. The man was war veteran and had developed the voice of admiral through it all.

His voice and look though quickly triggered the Jedi. Obi-wan looked at the Admiral with concern, sensing the Yularen's distress. "What is it Admiral?" Obit-wan questioned.

"I believe I found something very concerning." Yularen started turning the pad he had in his hand to the Jedi Generals. Anakin and Obi looked straight away, trying to identify the white symbol that was a spider. "It is about the markings on the dreadnought ship blocking our entry." Yularen said concerned and verifying his discovery.

"And what is it?" Anakin asked interested since he hadn't thought to identify the ships for symbols. Most of the ships were commanded by Droids and any symbols that were displayed were simple confederacy markings perhaps distinguished by their red colour.

It wasn't often Anakin or any other General or Admiral had to face off with a sentient admiral with the Separatists. General Grevious was always a popular fleet commander but there were times in which others would appear.

Thinking back to his earlier words with Obi-wan, Anakin knew that during the 1st Battle of Kamino, the Separatists forces were being lead by a Mon Calamari name Merai who was a specialist at Marine Combat and had broken the defences of Kamino. He failed though and died during that battle with reports of him going insane and attacking a completely vacant area of ocean.

There were others but Anakin couldn't quite remember them.

"I believe that the dreadnought is being commanded by Admiral Trench." Yularen announced to the two.

Anakin could vaguely remember the name. "Admiral Trench? Didn't he die at the battle of malstre narrows?" Anakin asked sure he had heard of this Trench, his demise and nothing else.

"That's what we thought but judging by the marking, this could mean he survived." Yularen pointed out concerned with the enemy. Unlike Anakin, Yularen did remember Trench.

"Hmmm, then he won't be seeing this coming." Anakin said pointing out the stealth ship. "We can get in close and finish him quickly then." He said as carefree about the situation as he was with most battles.

"No." Obi-wan said shaking his head. "This ship isn't to be used for the battle." He said making Anakin look at him confused.

"What? Why?" Anakin asked sure that it was a situation like this that the ship would be used for.

"You need to run a mercy mission to Senator Organa. They need food and water supplied to them." Obi-wan confirmed having made the call to the council and chancellor for the final decision. They had all agreed that it was the right course of action.

"This isn't a good use of a ship like this in this situation." Anakin said having wanted more stealth ship for battles. He didn't want this one to be wasted if it were discovered. Despite the progression of technology, availability of more advanced weapons was pathetic and far more expensive than it should have been. For many thousands of years, frontline battles and dogfights were still the most common forms of battle. But according to the historians, this was due to planets still been very behind in technology and then meeting highly advanced societies. It was a mess.

"If we can take out the commanding dreadnought we can easily overpower the blockade." Anakin said confident he could get the ship close enough to finish the job.

"No, there is no guarantee of the success of such a mission." Obi-wan said wisely. "You'll complete the mercy mission and then perhaps you could strike the commanding dreadnought." Obi-wan said commanding his former apprentice to do so. It wasn't his place to but Obi-wan wanted to reassure the people and see to their needs. It would also guarantee their support then they arrived.

Anakin shook his but nodded in the end. "Fine. With something this simple I won't even need any of your charm and wisdom for this mission." Anakin said about to walk away and organise this mission.

"But, to be safe I wish to join you on the mission." Yularen said joining in making Anakin nod and the two walked away.

"Well you've said you don't want my charm and wisdom Anakin, but Admiral Yularen's charm and wisdom will surely help you. If you listen." Obi-wan pointed out with a smirk.

No bothering to turn around Anakin put his hand in the air and waved. "I hear you." He mumbled with annoyance but acceptance.

A distance away a new, shiny clone watched the exchange curiously as Rex stood before him to give orders to the new clones. Unfortunately, Boardside, the squad leader for this new shiny was late due to an injury he had sustained. So the two waited patiently. "...Are they always like this Captain Rex?" Sparks asked wondering about the Jedi.

Rex looked at the leaders. "The generals? You get use to it rookie. General Skywalker and Kenobi are like brothers themselves. Just like us." Rex said well aware of the two relationship at teacher and student.

"But they were making jabs at one another and they're the ones leading us into battle." Sparks pointed out not liking such carefree soldiers.

Rex removed his helmet and stared at the shiny with a dangerous glint in his eyes. "Is that a problem rookie?" He asked not up for a rookie with an attitude problem.

"Um, no sir." Sparks said straightening himself. "I just thought they would be a bit more serious, Sir. Sir, could I ask you a question about them, sir?" Sparks said a little uneasy with the look Rex was giving him.

Rex smiled. "Relax shiny, its better you ask the question now while you're new and not later on. Ask away Private and take off your helmet." The captain answered with a military tone.

Spark compiled and removed the helmet. He looked like the most average clone you'd come across. No tattoos, no unique haircut and no scars. Yep, he was definitely a shiny.

Sparks spoke informally and with only the intent of finding an answer. "We clones have spent our entire lives dedicated to training and preparing for war. What I mean to say is, why are these men our Generals? What makes them qualified for the job?" Sparks asked.

"That's a strange and smart question rookie." Rex pointed out having never had a clone question leadership before him. "But it is a fair one." Rex said more than willing to answer. He knew said information from his teacher, the ARC Trooper's Current Captain-Commander, Alpha-17. Otherwise just called Alpha.

"Before this war broke out, the republic had no proper army. For over a thousand years there had been no galactic war large enough to warrant the creation of one. Instead the republic focused its funding elsewhere leading to a massive demilitarization of the republic armies. War between worlds and governments became a small thing as the only military forces left in the republic could handle it with ease. They only required the Jedi order and the Republic Navy." Rex educated.

Sparks nodded. "The Jedi order and the Republic Navy were the only forces they required? So these Jedi were trained for warfare?" Sparks noted seeing it possible.

"No, they're trained for peace-keeping. I thought it was warfare for a time but found that the Jedi were intelligent tacticians because they were peace-keepers. Where possible, they would negotiate peacefully or take actions long before a fight broke out. Their negotiation would save the lives us clones without a fight. Rather than just starting a fool's errand. During threats of war or actual conflict between worlds, the Jedi need only send 2 to 4 Jedi to end it. Many of them have years of experience on what you and I would call suicide missions. But because of their intellect and skill they can do it with little conflict. Don't come to the belief that they know nothing of war simply because you don't know or want to acknowledge their experience." Rex said guessing what the shiny was thinking.

"But were they trained to lead armies? We were breed to command armies and to die for the commands and success of the republic. Those were Jango Fetts teachings." Sparks pointed out. What Rex had said was clear but it didn't justify their leadership in the shiny's eyes.

"Jango fett was a traitor to the Republic rookie." Rex quickly pointed out. "Don't be so quick to fall back on what you learn on Kamino because out here on the battlefront, you win battles by surviving and making sure your brothers in arms survive. Dying without ever know if the battle was won is not a fate you should want. Sacrifice isn't the only way to success." Rex pointed out in return. He could recall the Alpha-17 telling him that sacrificing and being ready to die in a uphill fight was a foolish teaching that Jango fett had taught them. Value your life so you can fight another day. Think first, don't just react.

But that reacting was what Sparks had been taught. React to the commands, react to situation. Don't think about it, just do it. "But...it is what we were created for. The Kaminoians—"

"The Kaminoians aren't fighting this war!" Rex snapped silencing the shiny. "We are the soldiers fighting this war! The Republic Navy are the soldiers fighting this war! And the Jedi are soldiers fighting this war! The Jedi are the most experienced force the republic has and you'd do well to respect and appreciate their presence. Having a powerful leader who values your life isn't a luxury some clone legions have. Trust me rookie, I would rather have a Jedi General leading me and advising me on the battlefront, than to have to command alone without their guidance. They are just that good to have." Rex said very great full for their presence.

But he had answered Sparks question. "Yes sir. Then what have the Generals gone through to earn their positions?" Sparks said wanting that much.

"Why are you so fixated on this trooper?" Rex asked curious of the mind frame of this trooper.

"Some of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation ARC troopers and Republic Commandos talked back on Kamino. As do the captains, squad leaders and other higher ranked clones." Sparks said remembering the discussion during the breaks and lunches.

"What do they say?" Rex asked.

"They said the Jedi didn't deserve the ranks they have. That they weren't trained to lead armies into war. And that they were too soft for the job." Sparks said beginning to feel they were right. The Jedi were too soft if they could joke around like they did.

"Those 1st generations clones love to boast." Rex mumble. "They are impressive and have been known to handle missions without Jedi. As all clones are trained to. But having Jedi will make it a lot easier and safer rookie. I'd take a Jedi to every battle if I could. If you're concern is with their military leadership training you'd best drop it. Those Jedi are worth a 100 clones each and they do care about our well being. Which can't always be said about those who trained us on Kamino." Rex said. He wouldn't admit it but he views of the Kaminoian was changing.

"Why trust them sir?" Sparks asked.

"Because they trust me. Because they value me. Because they respect me. And because they do listen to me when I want to proceed differently to them. If you can prove to them that you should lead, they'll let you. But you've got to cut the dying for success thing and start believing in more than the battlefront because war is more than just fighting." Rex said realising that fight was just reacting. The jedi were the right leaders because they did more than just react. They planned and checked everything, and then came up with multiple plans should things go wrong. And they did it in the middle of a fire fight.

Sparks nodded. "Yes Sir." Sparks answered.

"Now, since you're so concerned you're going to get proof of their skills. You're going to go on that ship shiny." Rex said as he pointed to the stealth ship. Sparks looked in the direction and could see Boardside onboard waving to him and Rex. "Report to Boardside and he'll look after you." Rex finished putting on his helmet.

Spark put his helmet on and saluted. "Yes Sir." He said sure he could trust the Generals. Captain Rex had made some good points after all.

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Stealth Corvette Ship.

Battle of Christophsis's Space, Battle of the Cat and Mouse.

30 Minutes Later.

Sparks had given Captain Rex's points the benefit of the doubt. So why did the General Skywalker just confirm some of his doubts he had about the Jedi? He had trusted Captain Rex's words and still what Spark had thought was going to happen, happened far worse that he thought it.

The uncloaked ship was spinning and turning in ways that a ship its shape shouldn't be at speeds that made it a blurr in space. But being followed by about 20 Vulture Droid Ships moving at the same speed, which was somewhere between 1,000km/h or 1,600km/h, while they were firing heavily damaging blaster cannons shots and explosive, high speed energy torpedo that moved twice the speed of the ship it was fired from was disastrous.

And yet the purpose of the mission was to be mercy mission. Deliver cargo for the people and retreat back. Instead General Skywalker decided to attempt to bomb the dreadnought command centre, despite the many, many Vulture droid ships that had been standing and crawling across the surface of the dreadnought ship.

It was a tactic used by the Separatists, having the vulture droids stand, crawl, fire and launch from the exterior of the larger ships, like the dreadnoughts, flag ships and control ships. The tactic had many advantages, having extra fire power, droid ships that could take cannon fire for the ship and easier mobility across and surrounding the ship. It was defensive tactic. It only had two weakness, 1st being was that the droids weren't normally fully charged and capable of longer draw out dogfights.

The moment they decloaked the ship, the vulture droids had spotted them and rushed towards them. In that moment, the dreadnought ship activated its advanced shielding to stop the torpedos they had fired. It worked as the shielding blocked the torpedos, but a few of the vulture droids that had launched off the surface of the dreadnought were unfortunate enough to slam straight into the shields. That was the 2nd weakness of the tactic.

Sparks eyes darted to the radar noting the 4 missile that had been fired at them and they were flying right towards them as the ship veered right towards the coming missiles.

"Missiles Incoming!" Sparks shouted making Anakin's grit his teeth as he made near impossible move that resulted in the missiles flying past them, crashing into a few of the vulture destroying them and making the ship turn around while throwing anyone who wasn't ready out of their seats off and into the ceiling.

"Cloaks back online!" Another clone said having his eyes set on the cloaking capabilities of the ship.

"Great, let's get this back on and blow that Admiral Trench into the void of space." He said as the ship was soon cloaked and invisible to the droids that were now firing randomly hoping to hit something.

"NO!" Roared Trench staring into the void of space as his ships and cannon blasted at nothing. With a fury, the spider glared at the droids around him. "Find him now. Look for the ships magnetic signature now!"

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Far away, hidden in what could not be called space or the reality that Anakin and Trench were playing cat and mouse.

The father thought he saw a flicker in the furthest and smallest corner of what he could see beyond any senses that life had managed to produce. It was not a shadow or light flicker. It was something, insignificant and small.

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Yularen shook his head. This was suicide and not what they were suppose to do. They weren't focused on the mission, had failed once already and now they Skywalker wanted to try again. "You are underestimating an intelligent man, General Skywalker. Admiral trench is a disastrous enemy to wage war with." Yularen insisted not wanting to rely Skywalker's impressive skills and near impossible luck. This was directly abandoning the mission and was getting worse every second.

Anikin though wasn't one to give up and let someone get the better of him. "He's got no clue how good I am though. So relax, I got an idea." He said confidently as he distanced them from the vulture droids as much as possible. He looked at the dreadnought, watching it closely, identifying the location of the command centre.

Inside the dreadnought command centre, Trench watched with a foul frown at how the cloaked ship was dodging the vulture droids and cannon fire from his command ship. "Fire tracking missiles the instant the signature is found!" He roared as all the droids did everything in their programming to do so.

The next instants missile were fired off from the dreadnought, seeking the cloaked ship that could not hidden from the spider.

"Perfect." Anakin whispered. "I want full strength to the engines!" He shouted causing the clones to rush in doing the act and the ship rocketed through space, invisible and doing as its captain commanded.

With a few quick actions, Anakin made the ship avoid the missiles, have them chase it and fly straight for The Invincible's command centre. Spark's was seated on the gun sweating as he watched the missile that followed and got ever closer while his other view was the massive dreadnought, large enough to be own city. They were in a tiny, stick of ship compared to that. It was over and the General had lead them to their deaths. This was suicide and waste. They had no hope. He was going to crash them into the dreadnought.

"The cloak won't hold." One of the clones said as just that happened the ship's cloak disappeared and Trench got a full view of the cloaked ship flighting straight for him.

Admiral Trench's eyes widened. "Shields! Turn the shields back on!" He yelled to droids.

"We can't. They're still rebooting." A droids said panicked.

"They're going to crash into us!" Another screamed.

Trench was mad with rage and frustration standing up and watching it all happen. "No. He's not going to crash..." He mumbled as the stealth ship flew over the command centre and the missile he had fired flew straight for him. Trench's face screwed. He was about the die and fail in a pathetic fashion. He didn't want to accept this at all.

Ever since Starkiller had shown up, he had been underestimate by enemies, by allies and more so himself. He had thought everything through. And it about to end because of it.

BBBBBAAAAANNNNGGG!

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The Father heard something this time. Like the sound of a drop of water. It happened and ended swiftly. It made no effect to anything else and wasn't a notable event.

Yet he heard it. Why did he hear it?

The Father opened his eyes and saw nothing. Nothing out of the ordinary. No he shouldn't focus on it. It was nothing. He had a duty because he is The Father. He would not act on the sound of single drop of water. He had a more important task because he is The Father.

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An explosion took place and Anakin smiled. Next to him Yularen looked at the scanner to identify the results. Spark let out a breath of relief and utter shock that Anakin had pulled tactic off. It should have be impossible the ships-No, the shields weren't on. Anakin knew that. He took advantage of the missiles as using them required turning the shields off. And he knew they found a way to track them too! What else had Anakin calculated before taking action?

It didn't matter as Broadside and the other clones cheered and took a breath of air.

Looked ahead to the planet. "Alright men. Let's-"

"You missed!" Yularen shouted in horror causing Anakin to flinch and the clones to immediately silence their cheers.

Trench breath heavily and in utter shock that he was still alive and that the command centre was still in one piece. Looking out the view of the deck, he saw everything that happened.

"What happened? Did they hit us? Did the missiles hit us?" One of the droids asked.

"No." Trench whispered breathing hard before seating himself. "One of the vulture droids had posted outside, on the surface of the ship, flew into the line of the missiles and the explosion was dragged away from us." He said not believing the miracle.

Then it clicked. He had won without realising. If he hadn't ordered those vultures to post on the surface of the ship he would have died there and then.

He smiled wickedly and his eye burned with grand joy and amusement. "All cannons and ships, get that ship away from us and destroy them!" He shouted as the droids immediately went to do so.

Anakin didn't sense the vulture droid. Where had it come from? He's eyes adjusted and he could see the cannons on the ship focus on him and the crew.

"General, vulture droids on our tail." A clone shouted.

They were surrounded and too close the ship to get away.

BAAAANNNNGGG

A flash of flames appeared bright and wide across Anakin's view blinding and confusing him and everyone else on the ship.

Trench was suddenly thrown forward but didn't fall. Was that the stealth ship had they attack after realising their failure.

"Admiral. We are being fired at." A droid said.

"Was it the stealth ship? What is happening?" Trench asked as things just kept getting out of hand.

"No sir. It was a blast from the planet's surface." The droids said before another flash of flames appeared in the distant. One of the flagships had been hit and ripped apart as the tilted and floated dead in space turning in a splinter of metal shards floating.

"The blockade is under attack."

"Two of the major fuel and energy lines have been destroyed."

"We are losing power fast. The shields won't hold."

The droids were shouting different things telling Trench about the mayhem that was happening. Why were other ships defenceless?

"Get the shield up now! Focus on nothing else. Contact TI-99!" Trench ordered as he shifted again to the impact of another laser blast hitting the back of his ship. "All fighters, attack and destroy the planetary fire. Keep the scanners going for magnetic signatures. All cannon fire on those signatures."

The hologram of TI-99 appeared before Trench. "Admiral Trench sir."

"Why are the shields turned off on the other ships?" Trench barked.

"I had thought it wise to keep the energy consumption low to prepare for the republic fleets attack. The stealth ship was no threat to us and you said yourself that you would handle it. I have already order that they reactivate the shields." TI-99 said.

"Admiral Trench. The enemy fleet is making its move." A droid below Trench said as in the distance the republic cruisers left the protection of the moon.

Trench couldn't lead with a damaged ship. "TI-99, repel this attack. My ship can't sustain itself. We're going to the planet to make repairs. You are now to lead the blockade." Trench said looking at the droids with him before he was shifted again by another impact of the laser fighter. "Get us to the planet's surface, to these co-ordinates." Trench said as he added the co-oridinates to their navigations.

"Admiral. If you move The Invincible, the republic will have an opening to land. You are letting them through willingly." TI-99 said disapprovingly.

"My ship will not last! We fight now and we will be destroyed!" Trench said hating the ignorance of the tactical droids. "Our fuel and energy line has been cut. Do not test me!" He said before looking away. "Have we located the stealth ship?" He asked wondering they had been found.

"Yes sir. They've entered the planet's atmosphere."

"Leave them. We will get them later. See that the rest of the republic fleet does not get through TI-99." Trench said before shutting the hologram off, not wanting to negotiate with the tactical droid anymore. "Get us out of here now!" Trench said watching as the other ships were bombarded with laser blasts from the planet.

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Galen.

Christophsis Red and Blue CR90 Corvette

"I can't believe you lost."

Galen rolled his eyes at Dov's blatant statement in annoyance as the clone medic looked as his broken nose that had finally stopped bleeding. That women Asajj was not joke, but he was sure he broken one of her wrist and shattered a rib or two.

"I mean after all you showed me you were capable off, you couldn't even take down one assassin." Dov said as he counted the thermal detonators he had left with his back to the wall of the room. He had used 11 and had 29 left to use. Of the detonator straps he had, 10 would fit on each. He took off what grenades on the strap he had used and started attaching them to the straps that had free spaces. Dov didn't want to carry an extra strap if he didn't need it. It wouldn't be efficient.

Galen flicked his right hand lightly and casually without giving away his feelings. That instant Dov's head flung back and smacked into the wall.

"OWE!" Dov said as he let go of one of the grenades and grabbed the back of his head. "What the?" He said looking around for what had happened before looking back a Galen who watched the grenade roll on the floor. "Did you just use Jedi magic to make me headbutt the wall?" Dov asked surprised.

Galen opened his palm and the grenade flew into his palm as he looked at the weapon. "You earned it. And you should be more careful with explosives" He said with a look pointing at Dov with grenade in hand before he pocketed it. Galen didn't have his lightsaber but the enemy's now. And the curve of the handle threw his style of fighting off. It was no wonder Asajj was so fast, light and graceful with her movement. The handle was a bit more controlled and required a style that Galen wasn't familiar with. So for now, he wouldn't take his chances and might need the thermal detonator.

In response to Galen's face, Dov pulled his own. "I didn't earn that." He said innocently, like he hadn't insulted Galen two seconds ago.

"That was Asajj Ventress." Mason said with crossed arms leaning on the wall across from him, his 2 pistols on his hips. His visor was down on his eyes like usual, so no could tell how he was feeling other than the tone his voice. And it was a serious tone he gave to Dov.

"She is not a typical assassin Dov. A force sensitive assassin that wields 2 lightsabers is extremely rare in this age. Such assassins don't appear casually or haven't appeared like this for hundreds of years." He said with a thought. "Not since the assassin that appeared on Naboo 10 years ago. Though, to be honest, we had received word that she was dead. General Skywalker confirmed it on Corsucant nearly a month ago. To find out she is alive and on Christophsis is troubling. We have to tell Senator Organa. Can we get a message through?" He shouted to Reload and the other pilots.

"I can try sir." One of the CMPs co-piloting said as he went about flipping switches and pushing buttons to do so.

Dov shrugged. "So she's a special assassin. Big deal. I don't see the threat." He said continued what he was doing before.

Mason shook his head in disbelief. "How are you still alive? Do you take any interest in the vastness of the universe or doyou just pay attention to what's in front of you?" He asked seeing Dov as a simpleton.

"I'm a simple soldier Captain Mason." Dov answered sitting up straighter and with his hands out. "I've hardy ever left Christophsis and work to protect it. Focusing on the rest of the universe was never a priority." The Christophian answered before he jumped at the sound of Captain Heart sitting his sniper rifle on the wall on the ground.

The captain in red and white fished a holo-pad from his pocket and offered it to Dov. "Here Captain Dov. It is a Data Profile of Asajj Ventress. It should inform you of the enemy." Heart said wanting to see his fellow captain know what they dealing with.

Dov took it and nodded. "Thanks."

Galen eyed the holo-pad with interest. "When you're done I want to see that." Galen said curious.

Dov smirked. "I'll think about it." He said playfully before Galen flicked his wrist again making Dov's head hit the wall again.

"OWE, OK you can have it after me. Gods." Dov said as he held the back of this head looked over the info. "Let's see, skilled in lightsaber combat, a force user, stealth and assassination, hand to hand combat skills, acrobatics, sabotage and espionage...blaa blaa blaa...works for Separatists...blaa blaa..." He said making several clones roll their eyes at the strange attitude. "Oh. Genocided the Gungan clonies on the Moon of Naboo. Hmm, knowing those primativ...what?" Dov stopped talking as at his last comment everyone was looking at him disrespect and loathing.

"You are poor excuse for a sentient being." Mason said having enough.

"I was born on this planet. Planet of money making mine deals, secret slave trafficking and the rise of human leadership. Blame my upbringing." Dov said defensively. He was surprised they took it so bad. After all the reports he had heard about the Gungan Senator being an idiot he wouldn't blame anyone of thinking badly of the race. Moving off that thought though he went back to reading about Asajj. "Anyway...considered extremely dangerous, wanted dead or alive for 257,000 credits!" He shouted at the end before looking up at everyone. "You'd be set for life with that type of money. Hell, 1,000 republic credits could get you a ship with a hyper drive." Dov said surprised before he finished reading through the rest of it. Scanning through once more, he then handed it to Galen who looked.

Galen had no doubts it was her when he saw the profile photo. She had a history and reputation in this war that said something about her skills. The information was good but not enough for Galen to think too much about it. It couldn't describe how strong she was, her connection to the force. He put the profile down. "I need some time to mediate." He said as he walked away from the group to the back part of the ship to an empty cabin and shut the door.

It wasn't 10 minutes later until Sinect got up and walked to the back of the ship to speak to Galen. Senator Organa had answered and wanted Galen to join the conversation. Sinect entered and noted how dark it was but could clearly see the glow of red in the room. Looking at Galen mediating seated he approached and noticed what he was doing.

"The lightsaber...you've pulled it apart." Sinect said looking at the floating metal pieces slowly moving about in front of Galen's face. At the centre of the floating metal, a red crystal glowed ominously.

"Yes." Galen said opening his eyes and picking the crystal from the air. He turned to Sinect and offered him the crystal as the pieces continued to float. "Here. What are your thoughts on this?" He asked as Sinect opened his palm for Galen to drop the crystal in it.

"I'm no specialist with crystals but I know that red crystals do not naturally occur." He said as he eyed the red crystal. "Or to be honest, I didn't know that red crystal could exist until I saw the assassin's red lightsaber." He said having never heard of a red crystal as he looked at Galen. "What are your thoughts?" He asked curiosity.

Galen thought about while he mediate and hadn't gained anything from it except a feeling and more images of what he had already seen and heard. "I can feel the force in it. The darker side of the force flowing through it that has a very small signature. And on top of this, which I couldn't feel it until I mediated, it feels like Asajj's presence. And not just hers either. I don't think these blades were hers. Besides those presences, it feels like I've seen a crystal like this before." Galen said uncomfortable and making insectiod unconcern. But then Galen gave a straight and curious look. "Have you ever heard of the phase "the alliance"? Galen asked.

Sinect shook his head. "Sorry I haven't. Where have you heard it?"

"During my mediation, when I'm connected strongly with the force. And for few instants during my fight with Asajj." Galen said deciding it would be fine to let someone know. Maybe he could get some different and insightful perspective from someone else. "During my mediation, I see a woman I don't know. Young, blonde hair, and a sharp attitude. She speaks of an alliance and asks me if she'll see me again." He said before taking a breath. "And a similar feeling came about when I was fighting Asajj. I saw another woman through the force. Pale white skin, short red horns, black hair and wielding two strange red lightsabers. What could something like this mean?" Galen asked.

Sinect wasn't so sure what to say. If it was a human woman, the insectiods first thought was that she was intimately connected to Galen but upon hearing about the second woman he was fighting against, Sinect wasn't sure how to interpret this. "I'm an expert in engineering and designing of mining equipment and ships so I don't think I have the answer you're looking for. But I can guess that the pale woman with horns was from a memory triggered by your fight with Asajj who is similar in appearance because of your memory loss. As for the blonde woman maybe she's from your past to." He said as his looked back at the crystal in his hand. "Although maybe it's not the past." He suggested.

"Not the past." Galen repeated thinking about it. "Bail did say Jedi have used the force to see the future." He mumbled thinking for a moment, that what he was seeing might be the future instead of the past. "If they are, could that mean I'll meet these people?" He asked.

"I don't know Galen." Sinect answered. "I don't know how the force works or what it feels like. Like Bail said, if you want answers you're going to have to go and speak with the Jedi. They know the force better than most." Sinect answers to which Galen nodded.

"Here." Sinect said handing the red crystal back to him. "If it is the future you're seeing, then maybe there is something called "the alliance" out there. Add it to your list of things to look for when you leave." Sinect said hoping he was helping.

"I'll keep that in mind. I still want to search for those slavers." Galen noted.

"Are you sure they'll have answers?" Sinect asked before clicking that Bail was waiting for them. "Oh by the way we've gotten through to Bail and Cooper. They want to speak to the captains, chiefs and general, being you." Sinect said moving to walk away. "We'll talk more about this later."

"Alright. Could you wait outside and give me a moment. I want to try something with this lightsaber. I won't be a long." Galen said as the crystal floated out of his hand and the pieces of the lightsaber started to connect back together.

Sinect waited outside the room and it wasn't too long before Galen walked and the two made their way to the front of the ship. Entering the room everyone was there, along with a hologram of the Senator and Cooper. "Senator and Captain-Commander." Galen answered with a brief bow.

"Cheif Sinect and Ossues. Catpain Heart, Mason and Dov. And our own Jedi Leader, Galen Starkiller." The captain-commander said addressing each of them and glaring at Galen.

Galen sighed know he was still anger about his previous mission. "I said I was sorry about the tower Cooper. It was the only way to defeat the army." Galen said hoping the christophsian wouldn't push it any further.

"Retreat was a viable option Starkiller." Cooper responded. "As admirable as your devotion to success was, I can't help but think you just didn't want to lose. And at the cost of the needs of others." He pointed out.

"The tower can be rebuilt." Senator Organa said beside him.

"As you and Galen have repeated many times." Cooper mumbled and looked at Bail. "But of course, people who aren't even from Christophsis would know what we as a people should value and correct us for it." He growled.

"You—"

"Galen!" Bail snapped shutting Galen down. "Cooper is right. Drop the matter right now." He said wanting to move along.

"...If you say so Bail." Galen answer reluctantly.

"Moving on to the present mission." Bail started. "We've received word that you succeed and that the planetary defenses have begun to open fire on the blockade around the planet. Reports have stated that the out of the 14 cannons, 8 of them have been destroyed. But we have heavily damage the blockade. 4 flagships have been taken down, 1 controlship has been damage to the point of not being able to fight and all other ships have been hit. On top of this, Admiral Trench commanding ship has been heavily damage and forced to land on the planet." Bail said with some relief that the Admiral was almost out of the picture.

"Trench is no longer in the air? That's great news." Galen said.

"Yes, to our knowledge he has landed it on the edge of the planet far away from the conflict for repairs. But we face an issue from it." Bail continued.

"What is it?" Mason asked from the side.

"He is sending all of his ships to attack our position." Cooper answered. "He definitely not pleased that we brought him back down to the ground. We need pilots and soldiers." The Captain-Commander said.

Galen eyes widened slight. "You want us to return instead of going to the mining district?"

"Yes and no." Bail answered. "I want Galen, Heart and Mason along with the clones to continue with the infiltration while the others return to reinforce us." Bail said.

"Are you sure that is a good idea?" Galen asked since it would leave them with less soldiers.

"The CMPs are all trained pilots, correct Captain Dov?" Bail asked wanting confirmation.

Dov nodded. "Yes senator."

"And we have a supply of ships thanks to Galen and his team's efforts." Bail said gesturing to Galen. "We need every pilot. Go to the mining district and then return to Neogius."

"Very well Sir." Captain Heart said ready to comply. "Before you we do so, we have something to report." He continued.

"What is it?" Bail asked.

"Asajj Ventress is on Christophsis." The clone answered making Bail frown in surprise.

"She's here?" Bail asked alarmed.

"She was at Canyedonia, guarding the grid. Galen defeated her but she escaped." Heart said thinking about it himself. He had heard many things about Asajj and ambushing her enemies was a common trait in her memo. She was an assassin. Why here? Why there? Heart's eyes sought Galen who could have been the trigger that drag her out of hiding.

"She was here?" Bail said more concerned than he was before. "She proves yet again to be master of escape. This is very troubling. We thought she was dead." He said having gotten the reports of her death a few months ago.

"She's not." Galen said. "Who is she exactly? Why does she know how to use the force?" He asked wanting more information than just the stuff they put in the profile.

"She is an assassin who works for the Sith Lord Count Dooku. My belief was that she had learned those skills from him. But thanks to Obi-wan Kenobi, her past has been cleared up some." Bail said recalling the details of Kenobi's escape from her home planet.

"A Sith?" Galen asked. "What is a Sith?"

"From what I know they are the polar-opposite to the Jedi." Bail answered. "Where Jedi seek peace they seek war. Where Jedi seek knowledge, they seek power. The Jedi are selfless and the Sith are...worse than selfish." Bail finished.

Galen thought about he wouldn't doubt that Asajj had a dark and threatening presence. "Asajj knew something about me. She told me she could help me find what I'm looking for." Galen said wondering if such a dark and danger person could have actually helped him.

"A mind trick Galen." Bail said not wanting Galen to join the woman and her master. "Just as Jedi can, Sith can peek into the minds of others. Find out things we don't want them to and pull it out without us ever realising." Bail said knowing that Dooku had used this ability to take control of the separatists.

Galen squinted. "Do you think she could have helped me?" He asked getting everyone's close attention after. Thinking the enemy could help you and that you should join them was treasonous thought.

Bail sighed. "I wouldn't know Galen. She would use the force to help you much like the Jedi could. But unlike the Jedi, she would seek your wishes only for her own needs. This sounds like a mind trick has been used on you." Bail said since he doubted the lackey of Dooku knew much of anything. While she did have knowledge about the separatist, he wouldn't bet she knew much outside of the war.

Galen frowned not believing anyone could use a mind trick on him. "No, she couldn't have. I would have sensed it. " Galen said with anger.

Bail eyed his anger before a new came about. "Have you ever believed someone's intentions before without question?" The voice asked making Galen flinch.

Galen didn't notice the voice was unfamiliar. The question was a big distraction. He didn't know if he had or hadn't but the lines of thought being brought up made him feel uncomfortable. "I, no." He said before focusing on the new face. "I don't think so. Who're you?" Galen asked confused.

The new face was old with grey and white short hair that was well kept. He wore a bland and clean grey-blue, noble looking cloak over a matching coloured shirt and pants. He had the face of a smart and intelligent man full of confidence.

"Raith Sienar." He said bowing. "My apologises for not introducing myself earlier. I was positioned with the maintenance of machinery and equipment." He said only confusing Galen and everyone else as to why he was part of this meeting.

"While under strict supervision." Captain Heart said with his removed helmet. "Why is a known ally to the Trade federation a part of this report, Senator?" The clone asked not liking traitors being in anyway involved in their war reports.

"He has been a grand help in the security system and the ally to republic as well. Sienar Republic Systems has provided the republic with war ships for over a thousand years."

"And yet he sells his produces to the separatists. He is in this war for himself." Reload growled. "He does not fight for the Republic."

"You're not completely wrong clone and your loyalty to the republic and the senate is admirable. But the courts of the republic have realised that I am nothing but a victim it all this. Republic Navy Admiral Tarkin and even Chancellor Palpatine testified for my innocent seeing that I had no choice in what I have done. And greater still is that Tarkin realised that I could be a great help to the republic and thus offered me a station me here on Christophsis with a security detail. He felt that my genius could be of benefit to the republic's forces by developing new ships. I've proven my worth and have recently been accepted into the Christophsis council through a majority vote. Thank you again Captain Commander Cooper." Raith finished with smile looking to Cooper in the hologram.

"Enough." Galen growled sensing that everything that was being said had nothing to do with the report. It was a man who couldn't fight trying to prove he was superior. "We are getting off topic. We need to decide who will return to the HQ or come with me to the mining district."

"Yes, your right Galen." Raith said agree before be eying Galen. "But, I believe it is important that you tell us something regarding your report. What did you mean that Asaji offered you something you were looking for? I was in the position that you were on christophsis to help fight against the separates?" Raith said curiously.

This Raith was really trying to prove he was superior. "What I want is my own business Raith. It has nothing to with you and nothing to do with this fight." Galen growled at the manner in which Raith quickly questioned him.

Raith twitched and glared at Galen. "And yet from what you have said about your encounter with Asajj, it seems as if you may have considered her words and offer." Raith suggested.

"I wasn't." Galen growled back not believing this guy. "I wouldn't compromise the safety of the team and my comrades for myself." Galen responded.

"Oh, but you have." Raith continued getting a few confused looks from those listening. "How can we as your allies trust you when an enemy can tell that what you seek most is not helping the republic but a selfish mission? A soldier's loyalty to one's self over the success of the republic's victory is a dangerous and compromising hole that the enemy can take advantage of. A soldier that only seeks success for the republic is the reason why clones have made such brilliant and trustworthy soldiers." He said respectfully as he eyed the clones listening. "They do not hesitate with what is most important in these times of war. But clearly you do not have this mind set." Raith finished.

What this man was suggesting, the ego that he had to say it. Galen hated it. "I've put my life on the line for this cause multiple times. I've defeated more droids in a few days than you have in your life. I will not be judge by a tinkerer of machines who has already made connects to the enemy." Galen said not accepting being judged by such a man.

"I have already admitted to my past connects, trade and business deals." Raith said humbly. "And truly regret what I did. If I had not they would have killed me. And I am, as you say, only a tinkerer of weapons. I don't know how to fight. And I also know full well that the separatist keep to their threats against the lives of others. Life isn't important to them. But I know I can trust the Republic and the Jedi, who would never threaten the lives of people for their cooperation." Raith said respecting the Jedi for their ways.

"You haven't withdrawn you state from earlier. Just dodged it." Galen growled seeing that all this man wanted to do was say sweet words and question all others. But Galen would admit to himself, that Raith did know something was up with Galen. That is position in all of this was very convenient.

"And you're not actually a member of the Jedi order are you?" Raith barked back emotionless. "You're a rogue jedi who left the order for reasons unknown and hidden. A truly untrust worthy history. And not fully unknown. As it seems that Senator Organa has some knowledge of Galen's personal life considering that you answered Galen question as to whether that Asajj could have potentially helped him." He said as he changed is focus to the Senator.

Bail frowned. "What are you implying Raith?"

"That you and Galen, have a great influence on this cause than most." Raith said darkly. "And that not being truthful to those loyal to the Republic and the well being of our soldiers is unsettling." He suggested manipulatively.

Bail went silence and blank faced holding his anger. "Guards." Bail mumbled lowly surprising everyone at how serious he had become. "Council member Raith has interrupted the purpose of this report, without contributing anything of relevance to the mission long enough. Take him to the ship yard to complete the preparation of Admiral Trench's coming attack." Bail said as two clones appeared in the Hologram next to Raith.

Cooper eyes moved to Bail. "The council member has every right to be here." Cooper mumbled lightly.

"This is a progress report from one mission, captain-commander." Bail answer without any anger, as if a weight had been taken off his back. "It does not require all of us and it is not an interrogation of my and Galen's loyalty to this cause. Quite frankly, it is disrespectful and rude to suggest otherwise during such by our newly appointment council member." Bail said as he took his eyes of Cooper to Raith who looked back curiously for only a second.

Bail looked back to Cooper. "Let alone the fact he is in charge of shipping details and engineer under Cheif Sinect. The details of the battlefront have no use to him and the details he rudely brought have nothing to do with his position. He will leave this report to us and continue helping the cause they way he was assigned to and until such a time that he proves otherwise. You are free to join him if you wish. If not, then take note and use the information Galen's platoons have to free your home as you are the captain-commander of the battlefront." Bail said calming and in control of the situation.

Galen had to say he was impressed. Bail had calmed his anger and was able to quickly explain the why Raith had no business with the report and also address Raith's attitude. He was in control without any force powers or tricks. He was honest and humble yet quick to adapt and shut down insubordination.

Cooper couldn't argue. "Yes General Organa."

Raith wasn't fazed thought as he bowed. "As you command, General Organa." He said with confident smile. "You are indeed correct. This briefing has gotten off topic. I will return to my position. Cooper, I have my prototype ship ready for your use." He said before looking to Galen one last time. "Perhaps on Galen's return, we can discuss his reason for being here with the rest of the Christophsis council after we discuss both the economic, policies and social cost of the Governance Tower destruction. But that discussion is not up to me though. Good day Sir." He said finishing as he left with clones not at all worried about Bail's words and completely satisfied with how the conversation had gone.

It worried Bail that someone like Raith had left satisfied but needed to move on. "Moving back to the topic." He said before the group completed the final report and made their decision on their next action. They would drop of Galen, along with Mason, Heart and the rest of the clones at the mining district and then return to asset and repel Loathsome's attack.

But no one had forgotten the conversation with Raith.

As soon as it was over Dov snarled. "Raith Sienar. What a scumball." He said aloud.

"Took the words out of mouth comrade." Reload said agreeing.

"Keep those words to yourselves troopers." Heart said roughly. "There will be no disrespect to an official of the republic." He finished.

Reload disagreed. "Heart, even you should be able to tell that man was trying to undermine Galen." He said.

Heart shook his head. "He didn't bring up anything in my book that was undermining. If anything he's right." He said getting everyones attention. "Galen does have alot of explaining to do from what he said. It is not right for allies, comrades and brothers in arms to keep secrets from each other." He said looking Galen in the eye.

"And you think Raith isn't." Galen asked staring back.

Heart didn't back down. "He was accepted as part of the Republic, by the will of the Republic. And he is a member of the republic." He said looking away at everyone else. "While from what Senator Organa said, you here left the Jedi order who serve the Republic." He said pointing at Galen. "Meaning you turned his back on the Republic that we were created to fight for. Raith's has been honest and maybe he is hiding something but he not wrong in pointing out that you are an even bigger mystery."

"You want to know what I want Captain Heart?" Galen asked willing to answer.

"Yes Sir."

"I've seen visions." He started confusing Heart but still having his attention. "Of a blonde women and organization called "the alliance". I'm looking for them." Galen answered.

Heart frowned. "A blonde women and an organization? That doesn't tell us anything." The clone captain responded.

"How do you think that makes me feel?" Galen snarled back. "Captain Heart, what if you found out that you weren't just clone trooper and that someone out there in the universe knew who you really were and what your real purpose was without you knowing? That you found out something about yourself that you never knew. That thought would always linger in your head." Galen said but could already feel the stoic and unfazed clones thought.

"I know who I am Galen Starkiller." Heart began. "You are the one who sounds like you don't know who you are?"

Galen stepped closer to him, uncertain and irritated. "I don't." Galen said lightly controlling himself. "I can do incredible things as a Jedi but who am I beyond that? That's what I'm looking for Captain Heart. And yet all I know is that a blonde women and group of people unknown to me are connected to me in some strange way." He said lightly not wanting to get angry over the thoughts.

Heart was silent, as everyone else. He thought about it taking in the knowledge and honest way in which Galen spoke. Honest but blind. With such information, the clones had been trained to disregard such risky and emotional choices. Far too much risk. Therefore, Heart changed the subject, in an effort to get more information. "One more thing, General. If this true, then why are you looking for the slavers who caught you?" He asked focusing on the actions rather than the thought process of Galen.

"They have something that belongs to me." Galen said looking away from the clone. "Not something that is important to anyone else." He said cryptically.

"What could be so important to only one's self?" Heart asked.

Thinking about it Galen knew he didn't impress anyone with his answers. Nothing was concrete in his answers. But even Heart could be related to. He was still human. "What about your name, Captain?" He asked. The clones didn't care much for personal trinkets, but did care deeply about the Republic, their brothers and their names.

"Reload has said to me that clones will always know there number but to have a name that defines you is important. Wouldn't you agree?" Galen said recalling what the clone ward to him said.

Heart took a moment and the answer sunk some into his head. Then he nodded. "Yes sir. I agree." He said understanding a little. Before he could continue though, a message we out from the private Script in the pilot seat.

"Captains, we're approaching the mining district. I think you'll want to see this." He said with some uncertainty and fear. Looking at the entrance of the crystal mine, Script saw two things that were concerning.

An army of Droids.

And an execution wall.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Asajj.

Chaleydonia, Planetary Defence Headquarters. 1STof the 14 Cannons

She had done well despite losing. And it hadn't taken long to destroy the planetary cannon either. She had already gotten reports that 8 of the 14 had been destroyed, but none the less she had also heard how the cannons had weakened their blockade already. Trench had to retreat due to damage to his ship which he was going to voice his thoughts on. She wasn't concerned about Trench though.

SSSHSSSSHHSH

Asajj activated the blue lightsaber of her enemy and took in its appearance. It wasn't that different from many other lightsabers. The shape was simple and the design slightly bigger than the norm. No extensions or special calibrations to the energy modulator. Although the hilt was covered in intertwining leather which was good for grip and gave it ancient jedi lightsaber appearance, it wasn't special in her mind. Inspecting closer it looked aged and experienced, like this Galen had been through many battles with it.

She spun it a few times getting a feel for it. Wielding reminded her of her old lightsabers. The blue and green, from her old master.

She remember the lightning that Galen could use. How could he use it when she never could? She thought about it. The feeling of the lightning and the force that Galen. The force was strange Galen as if it was...she wasn't sure how to describe it.

She looked at her hand thinking about his ability and the force. That feeling, the force was not like anything she had sensed before. It was, it was, it was...

She stared at her hand a second not believing what she saw. She had been able to do it before, but she thought she saw a ligh-

BEEP. BEEP. BEEP

She looked to her communicator hearing the call of her current master. She had sent a message to him earlier to inform him of what had happened but had got no respond at the time. She had to tell him what she had discovered about the blue shadow. About the Starkiller and what she could sense from him.

All her thoughts went to her Master."Master." She said as the small, flickering, blue hologram of Count Dooku appeared. He was seated in a chair with his whole body in the in Hologram. Looking at him, Asajj thought of a King on his throne. She had a throne on her home planet which looked vastly better. And yet the simple design of the seat gave him a sense of authority and power none the less. Perhaps it was just his demeanour or presence that made it look like more.

He took a moment longer than Asajj thought as he inspected his student and assassin. "Asajj. What do have to report on?" He asked in strong tone with a tint of aggression.

She gave him an all too confident and graceful smile. "I have confronted the Jedi Galen Starkiller. He led a team to attack and activate the defensive grid of the Christophsis. They succeed in activating the cannons." She said coolly.

Dooku wasn't impressed as he placed his chin on his hand. "You failed me." He said darkly with a bit of curiosity. She was acting different than before.

Asajj shook her head. "No Master. Myself and Loathsom agreed that the destruction of the cannon was a necessary action when compromised. Many of them have been destroyed or shut down already." She said as their plans had already been put into action long before the attack. They had predicted that much of their enemy. Although she had not informed Dooku of Trench's retreat.

Trench's defeat was always part of Dooku's plan for Christophsis from the beginning.

The results of the Battle of the 1ST Cannon wasn't Dooku's concern but the how their defeat had come about was. "This Jedi, Galen bested you?" Dooku asked although sounding more like a statement.

Asajj simply smiled. "He is more than I, or you thought Master." She said sounding almost excited to tell Dooku what she had discovered.

Dooku squinted darkly. "Excuse me?" He whispered to his student wondering what she meant.

Asajj simply continued smiling as if staying he was better than her wasn't a concern. "He is far more skilled in the force than myself." She admitted. His ability to influence the physical matter around himself and his own body was astounding. "While his lightsaber skills show skills in forms 3, 5 and 7, it is nothing I can't fight. But his ability to manipulate the physical force is overwhelming. He was even able to use lightning, like yourself." She said remembering the shock, both figurative and literal.

She had tried for months to master lightning like her master. But the power, the pressure and precision to generate and/or acccumlate that level of energy wasn't one she could do. It required a forceful and authoritative will to command an energy that moves in a straight and near unstoppable direction.

Dooku had told her she need to train further in the force before mastering it and that it would take a least 30 years of force training to gain the ability. That she needed certain level of passion and determination that can only come about through experience and discovery.

Dooku was impassive but a curiosity and darker thoughts of his mind were clear to Asajj, she could sense it. He was staring at her within thought and all she could think about were Galen's abilities, and presence of the force around him.

"Are you sure it was lightning?" Dooku asked. Again though it was more of a statement. "Conjuring force lightning is not easy, as you yourself have learnt." He said remember training her.

Her eyes flickered a moment, remembering the flashing light. She stared back at him. "Master, I know when force lightning is used against me. This was real." She said remembering what it was like being electrocuted by her master. It was merciless, it was cruel and it left its mark like many things in her life.

The Sith master was impassive. "Anything else?"

She switched back to her report and nodded. "Yes. His connect to the physical force is powerful." She said before smiling. "Not so much in perceptive force though. My abilities in the perceptive force where enough to influence his thoughts and actions, enough so that I hypothesis someone else had used force to influence his mind for a long period. Most likely when he was young." She guessed. The guess was because the perceptive force was something her first master had taught her to awaken and control her abilities, than mastered with Dooku to influence her prey and hide her tracks.

Although, there was something else in the force surrounding Galen Starkiller that Asajj couldn't keep quiet about. "But I felt there is something very different in his connection to the force. Not like anyone else I have encountered." She said.

Dooku seemed to relax hearing this, as he wanted to hear more. "Not like anyone else." He repeated curiously before he took a quick and deep breath. "Asajj have you heard of the theory of "The Existential Sphere"?" He asked like a teacher.

Asajj drew a blank. "Ah, no Master. I haven't."

Dooku didn't react, only explaining. "Scholars of the Jedi describe it as sensing the force within another as if looking at something that is a pool, a source, a presence or sphere that surrounds your existence." He said interesting her with the knowledge.

"Master Yoda is described as a source of calm, slow and faded energy like that of the flow of energy in a tree that moves so subtly that it may not be even moving. Master Mundi was described like a collection of millions of sparks of light so small but so infinite it that feels like a single source of light. In my opinion, your connection to the force is like a grey fog filled with patient, ambitious and swift shadows." He said making Asajj understand what he meant.

If she had to describe Count Dooku in such a way, she'd say "A human shadow on a red sun. Growing and absorbing the red glow of the star while eclipsing it in dark space that surrounds it."

Dooku probable thought she'd think of something along those lines. "How would you describe Galen Starkillers connection in this method?" He asked.

She thought about and wasn't sure. While he was strong and very distinctive what really stood out about him that could describe him. She couldn't sense because there was something else to his connection.

"A doorway."

Again Dooku looked far more interested than concerned. "A doorway? Continue." He said.

She continued. "Like I'm looking out a doorway at something. Whatever it is, it feels like I'm being dragged to it." She said before realising she had something else to say about it. "And I'm curious to see what's on the other side." She said as if only realising it now. It was like when...when sensed the surge and wanted to find out where it had come from.

"Why chose the word, doorway?"

She shifted very subtly. Had Dooku noticed her shift. "I'm sorry Master." She repeated.

"Doorway." He only said knowing what to ask. "You described this doorway as more like a blackhole. But you chose the word Doorway. You don't just feel like you are been dragged towards it. You feel like something is coming from it towards you as well." He said sound satisfied.

He wasn't the Master without reason. He had realised what Asajj was getting at before she did. She nodded. "Yes Master. Like it pulls and pushes at the same time." She said slowly thinking more and more about it. Was it Galen she sensed or the surge that pulled her curiosity out?

"And interesting way of describing it." Dooku said confident. "Are you certain it was him you sensed?" He said piecing it together just as fast as Asajj.

She wasn't sure but she answer what she was thinking right. "Yes Master." She said believing he was the surge and they couldn't be different.

Dooku relaxed again resting easy in his seat. "Have you noticed anything different around yourself Asajj?" He asked simply.

Again it wasn't what she expecting from her Master and again she answered honestly. "No, Master. Despite the strange nature of this Jedi's appearance, I don't feel any different Master." She said confidently. She wasn't any different from the fight.

"Are you certain?"

"Yes Master."

Dooku's face darkened and he aggression resurfaced. "You do not sense how different you are?!" He said clearly.

He sensed something different? "Different, I-I don't, I don't feel any different Master." She answered although wondering if she had answered him differently. Was she different?

Dooku analysed the conversation and could feel something different. "When I said "excuse me" moments ago, I didn't say it in shock of believing him to be skilled." He started and Asajj could feel a tightness around her neck and flinched. "I said "excuse me" because you suggested that I thought nothing of this man." Dooku said in anger.

"ACK!" Asajj wanted to grab her neck and stop the choking but she had experienced it all before. Trying to grab at hands that weren't there was pointless. She did try to steel for force around her and stop the influence of her Master but all didn't work. She wasn't strong enough to resist and her force ability were use to submitting to her Master.

Dooku stared at her without care and anger. "You insulted me and continue to insult me when you brought up my use of Lightning to train you." He growled and physically moved his hand this time.

He was angry and the grip tightened. She was struggling to hold the hologram but any second now she was going to drop it. At least she thought, until realising Dooku was also controlling her grip on the receiver. It was very strong and her body was staring to twitch.

Then it stopped and she took a deep breath. "AHH!" She nearly toppled over but didn't.

"You're attitude and confidence has changed along with your regard to me." Dooku explained. "Especially since you believe you can speak to me in such a way when you failed me again. Smiling confidently, excited to speak and oblivious to my displeasure. See it changed when we speak again. And I do not want to hear of failure from you again. I have been very lenient with you and your many failures!" He said as the memory of her failure returned to her so strongly she wasn't sure if it was herself or her master making him return. "Remember that." He finished.

She nodded quickly. "Yes Master." She said before feeling the rage of the dark side. She glared at him and he smiled.

"I sense your rage, your hatred for me." Dooku said passionately and pleased. "Use it for your victory and revenge against the Jedi. Complete your mission and revenge by defeating Skywalker and Kenobi. And then find Starkiller and find out what he wants." Dooku said before his tone changed. "There is no record of a Galen Starkiller in Jedi Order last I checked, and his lightsaber is not his either." He said.

Asajj frowned and pulled out Galen's lightsaber. "His lightsaber? I have it Master. During our fight he dropped it and I took it. He is vulnerable." She said with her anger.

The next second and hologram of the lightsaber appeared. "Loathsom sent me an image of that lightsaber before and I still not sure how Starkiller got it." Dooku said thoughtfully since the design was to familiar to a Jedi he meet long ago.

"It belongs to Master Rahm Kota."

Asajj had never heard that name before. "Master Kota? Who is that?" She asked.

Dooku spoken with little interest. "A man brought to Jedi Order when he shouldn't have been. He is neither a threat, nor a powerful enemy but since this is his lightsaber then Galen must have taken it or made a copy. We will investigate Master Kota more soon enough, but it does not become the priority over our control over Christophsis or the defeat of Kenobi, Skywalker and their fleets. In fact I have an even greater mission that I will need you to succeed in soon enough." Dooku said.

"Will General Loathsom be informed of this mission?" Asajj asked since the General would not be happy with her departure. That and she hadn't heard anything back from the General in sometime.
"I have been trying to get in contact with him for some time and haven't been successful." She informed Dooku.

"That is because I ordered him to complete a mission without interruptions. He will only answer to my call." Dooku said.

Asajj frowned with annoyance. "What is so important that he should only contact you?" She growled.

Dooku smirked, his white beard lightly moving. "The reason why we invaded Christophsis." He answered making Asajj stare and listen interested. "Loathsom will see it done and then the planet and war will be his to do with as he wishes. If he succeeds with this mission, he will get the reward he wishes." Dooku said.

"Despite the Jedi's escape?" Asajj growled returning back to the mystery of the blue shadow.

Dooku gave a slight shrug. "Starkiller was an unforseen and insignificant occurrence in our plans. This planet has only a meagre value to the clone wars as a whole. What's most important thing is Loathsom's current mission. Killing Skywalker and Kenobi comes after and then nothing else matters."

"And you didn't wish me to handle this mission?" Asajj growled again. "To instead be a decoy."

"Watch your tone Asajj." Dooku said growing impatient to Asajj's lack of obedience. "You are strong enough to handle the republic forces without Loathsom. Call yourself a decoy if you wish, but your success in repelling the Republic will still have value to the Separatist agenda. And on top of that you are of greater value than Loathsom, meaning there focus will be on you. As soon as Loathsom is clear to take control, you will depart Christophsis and travel to Tatioone." Dooku said.

"Tatioone?" Asajj repeated. The sand, nothing planet of Jabba the Hutt?

"Yes, you will be kidnapping a vital piece to the war. One that will open new doorways to the Separatist force if successful." Dooku said cryptically.

Asajj shrugged. "Sounds simple enough. More simple than what is happening on Christophsis." She said wanting to get back to espionage and sabotage.

"I'll send you the coordinates to meet me on Tatioone." Dooku continued

"You'll be on Tatioone? What is the target?"

"Not what, who. Jabba the Hutt's son." Dooku said again surprising Asajj with the answer.

"Very well Master." She said willing to accept the mission.

Dooku smiled and nodded. "Good. Then I have one more question to ask you."

Asajj nodded and wondered what it could be. There wasn't much else to discuss.

...

"Are you sure Galen Starkiller is the only thing that recently appeared on Christophsis?"

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Galen

Phictamemor Village Mining District, Crystal Mine 2 Entrance

"What happened here? What happened to all these droids?" Galen said as bent down and lift what was left of the B2 Super droid infront of him. It had 5 clear holes going through it as if it had been shot

All around droids, tanks and any other machine that had been used by the Separatist had been riddled with small single blast that went straight through to the other side and left a hole. There had to be at least 50 to 70 droids and yet they'd been destroyed and left here.

The area was covered in thin, dirt and dust covering some platforms while others were simply earth or crystal. Some small buildings and large crystal cover the area providing cover but whatever had happened the droid were wiped out. And then there was large hole, coming at the earth from an angle that went straight down. There was a mobile platform system, but clearly it was at the bottom of the Crystal Mine 2.

"I don't think this was sniper fire." Captain Heart said holding his own sniper rifle in hand.

Reload shook his head wearing his helmet. "Captain Heart, Sniper shots are the only blasters I know that have the power to make such clean holes. The only other weapon I know that could make such a shape in a tinty would be a Larty laser cannon and they'd wouldn't be capable of such small holes."

"A Larty?" Dov repeated not knowing what the clone meant.

"Low Altitude Assault Transport Gunship. The LAAT's we've got back at the base." Heart answered. "But it wouldn't make sense if it were sniper fire. Nearly all these droids have been shot multiple times by a clean, high calibre blaster or laser. One shot would be enough to blast them off their feet and on to the ground."

"Maybe who ever shot them wanted some revenge and needed to shot them again for the satisfication." Dov said as his eyes drifted to the execution wall not far from them in a foul disgust.

Christophsians, Virpine, Duros and Givin had been chained to the walls and executed by the droids. They hadn't bothered taking them down and at this point some of the bodies were visibly rotting. Thinking about it they all knew the separatist droids couldn't smell the stench of the rotting bodies and they wouldn't care about the appearance of the bodies.

Galen could feel a rage looking at the bodies of the different people. He had heard of what Loathsom had done to the people that disobeyed and the act he had committed. Seeing it was different though. Very different.

"If that were true, why aren't there blaster signs in the ground?" Mason pointed out lifting one of the B1 Droids and looking at the ground under it. "Clean shots straight through and nothing on the ground? Blaster signs on the buildings and surroundings? No, the shots have to be done at the exact same time, shot through the droids and hit the walls around them." Mason finished.

"That's impossible though." Reload said. "There aren't any rebel forces or clone force out this far in the planet that could mount such an attack. And they would need a large force to do so. Taking the fact that there aren't any bodies of whoever attacked too, makes it even stranger." Reload said drawing blanks.

"I've done co-ordinated mission without trooper casualty before." Captain Heart answered. "They may have taken their dead." Heart finished trying to piece it all together.

"We can't figure this out right now." Galen said stopping the discussion. "All we can determine is that someone attacked and destroyed these droid and has probably gone down into the mine after Loathsom." Galen concluded wanting find out if Loathsom was still here or not. "We continue. Dov, Reload, get back on the ship and flight back."

Before Galen moved though Reload stopped him. "Sir, with all due respect. I feel you may need me on this mission."

"You're going back with Dov and that is final." Galen said as everyone listened and waited.

"Sir all the clones are going on this mission, please they have all the pilots they need. Your even letting one of the Verpine go with you." Reload said pointing at Phic who wasn't so keen on going anymore.

"Phic is his name Reload and we need specialist who knows the mines." Galen said. "We discussed this. Dov needs a gunner on his ship. The two of you together will make a great team and it will boost moral too." He said since it had been made clear that pilots were need back at the base.

Dov approached Reload. "I know how you feel Reload." Dov said appearing a lot softer and understanding that before. "I want to take the fight to Loathsome and end his terror on my home!" He growled. "But our best chance is with the republic fleet getting through. And there are a lot of people back at the base that can't fight." Dov said. "We're here to help and protect." He continued before looking at Galen.

"And I trust Galen's judgement." He said before looking back at Reload. "So you better not disappoint me." He said with a smirk and started to walk back to the ship.

Reload nodded to the Christophsian before reach behind his head for his rifle. "Here, take it." Reload said holding the weapon out to Galen.

Galen frowned and shook his head. "No, I've got my own weapon."

"And I've got a shotgun and a Bolt caster. You'll need this more than me." Reload said before lightly throwing the rifle to Galen who caught it. "Pull the right lever to release the strap, press the left upper button for safety, and there is a cool down that takes at least 3 seconds after 16 shots."

Galen looked at the weapon. He had used the droid blasters while escaping the prison but didn't feel normal using a blaster instead of the lightsaber. But then again, his eyes wondered to Asajj lightsaber. He nodded.

"I'll take it. Thanks." He said with a light smile.

"Meet at the end. And may the force be with you." Reload said nodded and walking to the ship.

"And to you. Meet at the end." Galen mumbled having heard that those words more often than not with these clones.

He turned to the clones that remained, Mason and Phic. They all held their weapons close and looked intimidating and ready for a fight.

"Let's move."

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Within Crystal Mine 2

A light flickered, swiftly across the crystal walls and spikes. A reflection of something flying within the thin, air of the crystal tomb went deeper and deeper. Looking for answers

"I wonder if these ones are the ones that woke me up with that loud bang a few weeks ago. They better be friendlier than those ones back at the entrance. Or they'll wish they hadn't woke me up."

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