A long time ago in a galaxy, far, far away…
STARS ABLAZE
SHADOWS OF THE REPUBLIC
War has come to the Galaxy.
The Republic's secret
weapon, a massive clone army,
is deployed for the first time
against the Separatist droid forces.
Behind the scenes,
hidden leaders on both sides
of the war learn of a powerful
new device developed in a new galaxy
known as Genesis that has the power
to create entirely new planets.
Fearful of the potential this device may have,
both leaders of the GALACTIC REPUBLIC and the CONFEDERACY OF
INDEPENDENT SYSTEMS meet in secret to discuss
what must be done about this possible danger to them.
In secret, a secret division
of special trained clones
are preparing for their first mission
into the new galaxy.
Skyriver Galaxy
Inner Rim
Corusca Sector
Coruscant System
Coruscant
Republic Center for Military Operations
"This meeting will now come to order."
In a large room, officers all sat around a circular table as a door opened and in walked Chancellor Palpatine and Mas Amedda.
"Thank you all for assembling at such short notice." Palpatine stated as he sat down. "I am aware that all divisions are currently busy with the war but there is a matter that concerns both galaxies."
All officers were silent as the lights dimmed and a holographic projection of a man in a Starfleet uniform is shown.
"To fully understand the events in which I report, it is necessary to review the theoretical data on the Genesis device. As developed by doctors Carol and David Marcus, Genesis simply put is life from lifelessness. It was the intention to introduce the Genesis device into a pre-selected area of a lifeless space body, a moon or other dead forms."
The recording showed the 'device' impacting a moon, seemingly setting a chain reaction but instead of destroying the moon, the 'explosion' began to spread across the surface.
"The device when delivered would instantaneously cause the Genesis Effect. Instead of a dead moon, a living breathing planet now exists, capable of sustaining whatever life forms we see fit to deposit on it."
The explosion covered the entire surface, once it did mountains began to grow, lakes were formed and a breathable atmosphere with blue skies and white clouds were shown.
The recording ended, leaving the entire room silent.
Until someone spoke.
"Im-"
Serenno
Count Dooku's Castle
"-possible…" Nute Gunray sputtered, unable to believe what he had been shown.
"I assure you, Viceroy that it is not only possible it real." Count Dooku stated. "In fact, the device was already shown to have created an entire planet without the need for a moon or other dead world. Our own emissaries on Earth were shown the Genesis information along with Admiral Kirk's report and that information was shared through the diplomats at the embassy on Raxus."
"So, it is true then. The Federation has created a way…to create entire planets." San Hill leaned back in his chair, completely stunned by the implications of what they had been shown.
The Separatist Council, along with General Grievous were assembled in Dooku's own estate on Serenno to see the report.
Gunray was sputtering, his mind unable to conceive the idea of such a device existing.
Wat Tambor was the next to speak. "If so, then the Federation is more powerful than we ever thought possible, if this Gensis device is of any indication."
"How can we be sure this is real?" Gunray finally spoke. "It could certainly be a fabrication."
"To what end?"
"To make us fearful of them by tricking us into believing they are advanced enough to create entire planets. It is impossible for such a technology to exist." Gunray stated with certainty in his voice.
Grievous let out a chuckle, earning a glare from the Viceroy.
"Viceroy, we all know you despise the Federation, the United Federation that is and that you hate Admiral Kirk as much as Senator Amidala but given what we have learned in the past decade, it's unlikely for the Federation to create such a fabrication." Wat Tambor pointed out. "Especially when claims of the device successfully creating a planet has been confirmed by multiple sources."
"He has a point, Gunray." San Hill spoke. "And we should remember that the Federation has made a point to state that they have no interest in joining the war against the Republic on either side. Since it is our own sources that are making these claims, how can you say it is all a trick?"
Gunray sputtered, trying to come up with a reasonable argument but failed.
"In any case, this Genesis is proven to be not only real but effective. The device created a planet in what used to be a nebula rather than a moon." Dooku continued. "What we must decide now is how to proceed with this information."
Inner Rim
Corusca Sector
Coruscant System
Coruscant
Jedi Temple
"Disturbing, these implications are."
Yoda was leaning back in his chair, eyes closed as he and the rest of the Jedi Council thought over what they had just been shown. Present with them was Anakin Skywalker, having just returned from the battle of Thule and had spoken with Padme before returning to the Temple over the Holonet to find out when she would be returning.
Only she had stated that her return would be delayed on account of disturbing news for both the Senate and the Jedi Council.
"Just how could anyone, let alone a civilization much smaller and younger than the Republic have created such a device?" Ki-Adi-Mundi questioned. "There has never been a record of anything like this existing in the long history of the Republic."
"We must remember that the Milky Way Galaxy is much different from ours." Master Adi-Gallia pointed out. "We should not consider it impossible just because we have never seen anything like this Project: Genesis in our galaxy."
"We must also consider the ramifications of what might happen if this device were to be used as a weapon." Windu stated. "As you could all see from the recording, if this device was deployed on a planet where life already exists, it's likely that all existing life would be destroyed and replaced by whatever new is sprung from it."
That was a disturbing thought.
"We can't consider that the Federation would ever actually use this as a weapon." Shaak-Ti commented.
"Can we?" Windu asked. "The fact of the matter is, the Milky Way Galaxy is a vast quantity still unknown to us. We know that they don't observe the Force in the same manner as us, in fact Master Kenobi and his own Master Qui-Gon stated in their reports that the Force felt very differently, almost nonexistent there."
"But it did exist." Obi-Wan spoke up. "And I know Admiral Kirk well enough to know he would never sanction this Genesis device as a weapon."
"Kirk is only one man." Oppo Rancisis stated. "And we must consider that how the rest of the Federation feels about us. Many of their citizens frown on our use of clones."
"Their feelings have no voice in Republic or Jedi matters." Windu stated.
"That might be true, but they've started withdrawing the few colonies they've been allowed to set up in our galaxy." Obi-Wan replied. "They don't feel safe."
"Well, who can blame them?" Kit Fisto pointed out. "Considering we're fighting a war, I'd say they have every right to feel that way."
"But they still maintain embassies in both Republic and Separatist space." Adi-Gallia pointed out. "And there has been pressure from the Senate for them to take up arms against the Separatists."
Republic Center for Military Operations
"Their Prime Directive forbids them from interference and perhaps that is a good thing." Palpatine stated to one of the officers. "If they felt threatened enough, they might be provoked enough to consider the use of this Genesis device against whoever they feel has threatened them. And we should also consider, this Genesis device is the not only top-secret research project the Federation is conducting."
The officer he had spoken to was named Orson Callan Krennic, a member of the Strategic Advisory Cell.
"Genesis may only be the beginning." Palpatine stated. "So, we should proceed carefully and let me remind everyone that the Federation and by extension the rest of the Milky Way Galaxy is not part of our galaxy and thus not subject to our laws. The only reason we know of this now, is because the Senator from Naboo witnessed Admiral Kirk's report with the Vulcan ambassador."
"In other words, we cannot force them to hand over the information on the Genesis Project." Mas Amedda stated. "However, the fact that the Federation created such a device that could also be used as a weapon of mass destruction makes them dangerous to the Republic."
"Are you suggesting they be evicted from our space? Even our galaxy?" Another officer, Armand Isard questioned.
"That might be possible, when word of Genesis reaches the ears of the Senate." Palpatine admitted. "They would likely demand the Federation explain itself. Should that happen, it is imperative that they not be provoked, or they could end allying with the Separatists."
"And what shall be done when the Separatists learn of Genesis?" Another officer, Wilhuff Tarkin asked. "They would likely see it as a weapon and seek to gain it for themselves."
"I have considered that. If Count Dooku and the Separatists do seek to gain Genesis for their own use, they might believe they can enter Federation space. However, we should also consider the fact that according to Admiral Kirk, the entire science team behind Genesis were killed by the terrorists that stole and detonated the device." Palpatine replied. "The only three survivors are Doctors Carol and David Marcus and another survivor named Jedda. We do not know their locations but it's possible that they or at least one or two of them will be studying the planet that the device created."
"Located in the Mutara Sector, Beta Quadrant." Isard stated, looking over the files. "It's quite far, Chancellor. According to any records, no one who has migrated from our galaxy to the Milky Way has gone that far."
"It will likely be a challenge which is why I have invited the representatives from Corellian Engineering, Kuat Drive Yards, and Rendili StarDrive here." Palpatine said, gesturing to said representatives.
One of them was Onara Kuat herself.
"I understand that you, Lady Kuat even managed to gain a brief tour of the Enterprise." Palpatine said with a small smile.
"Indeed, I did, Chancellor. It was…quite the experience." Onara admitted. "They didn't share any of their technology but gave a general description. We've been trying to replicate some of their technologies such as their matter/anti-matter reactors, their Electro-Plasma convertors and a few others with limited success."
"Then you'll be pleased to see what I propose." Palpatine brought up another holographic, this time of a ship.
It was a corvette class, showing a modular hull design.
"This is a prototype for a new stealth class ship that is currently being designed at Sienar Design Systems. It will feature over twenty-eight cloak projectors." Palpatine explained. "Of course, it is rather costly in both funding and maintenance requirements, so our Navy had been initially discouraged from funding beyond the creation of one stealth ship. However, if additional funding could be allocated to the creation of a second stealth ship…"
"Then we could enter Federation space." Tarkin caught on with a smile. "Brilliant, Chancellor."
"Of course, the Federation has a history with cloaking devices so we must be cautious. If a team is to be assembled, it should only be under the objective of observing this Genesis and ensuring it does not become a threat to us." Palpatine stated. "From either the Federation or the Separatists. If the vessel is caught in their space and believe us to be spying on them, it could push them to side with the Separatists."
"A reconnaissance mission then." Tarkin mused but complied. "Given the situation, I must agree. Shall I assemble a team to undertake this mission, Chancelor?"
"No need, Tarkin." Palpatine smiled. "Your place is here, fighting the Separatists. I have an idea for a team that might be suited for a mission like this."
Serenno
Count Dooku's Castle
"Which is why, we will be taking very careful measures." Dooku then turned to Poggle the Lesser. "Poggle, you have remained in contact with the resistance on Geonosis, I trust?"
Poggle answered in the Geonosian language. "Yes. My warriors have been careful to remain hidden for the time to strike."
"Good. When they do take back control of the planet, it will be imperative for you to begin work on those designs that were submitted to you." Dooku stated, surprising the Separatist Council. "The existence of Genesis and other possible weapons the Federation possibly has, has forced our hand. Lord Sidious demands that the construction is to begin at once."
"Construction for what, Count?" General Grievous questioned, finally speaking for the first time since the meeting had begun.
"The designs for a super weapon based on ancient Sith weapons used long ago." Dooku answered. "The design for a modern of these weapons were submitted years ago to the Geonosians for the purpose of perfecting the design. The Trade Federation, the Banking Clan and the Techno Union have all agreed to fund the weapon's constructions but that was to take place at a later date. Unfortunately, the Federation is now forcing our hand."
"Funding this weapon will bankrupt us." Nute Gunray muttered bitterly.
"Not if we are careful and we spend wisely. Poggle, when Geonosis is back under your control, I want you to send as many Geonosians as you can to the following coordinates, and they are to remain absolutely secret." Dooku stated with a hard glare at the Geonosian Archduke. "Under no conditions can the Jedi be allowed to learn of this weapon."
Poggle nodded his head.
"General, your existence still remains secret and that is our most powerful weapon at the moment." Dooku turned to Grievous next. "The Weapon in question relies on a special kind of power source that only the Jedi know of. Fortunately, I know the location of one planet that has this power source in abundance but for the Weapon we will need larger versions of this power source."
"And what is this power source?" Grievous asked.
"They are called kyber crystals and they are used in the construction of lightsabers." Dooku answered, holding up his own lightsaber and igniting it. "The crystal can be used to focus energy, hence why they are essential when constructing a new lightsaber."
He deactivated his lightsaber and placed it back on his belt.
"The crystals we need for the Weapon however are much larger than the ones found in lightsabers. It is with this reason, that as the war with the Republic continues, we begin searching for crystals needed." Dooku continued. "General, with the death of Ser'rance Tann, you are now to take full command of our forces. The Republic must never find out about the Weapon, so you are free to conduct any campaign you deem fit to keep them off balance."
"As you wish, my lord." Grievous nodded.
"Lord Sidious believes that the existence of Genesis proves the Federation and by extension the rest of the Milky Way are dangerous, but it is possible that we can gain a great deal from it." Dooku continued. "I have been informed that at least three scientists from the team that developed the Genesis device survived the theft that led to the device being detonated prematurely. Lord Sidious believes we might benefit if the knowledge to create our device falls into our hands."
"Are you suggesting we make an incursion into Federation space?" Gunray questioned.
"No, nothing like that." Dooku chuckled and shook his head. "Despite our numbers we cannot fight a war on two fronts. I propose that we send a strike force to the Milky Way and go to this Genesis planet. It is likely that the Federation will be studying the planet that their device created and thus with them will be at least one of the surviving scientists who was part of the project."
"To do that, we would have to sneak past Naboo and the Federation station on the other side of the wormhole." Wat Tambor pointed out.
"To that end, Lord Sidious has presented us a gift." Dooku presented the holographic image of a Providence class destroyer. "This is a Providence graciously loaned to us by Admiral Pors Tonith of the Banking Clan. His entire fleet has been modified with cloaking devices but unfortunately it is too expensive to give these devices to every ship in our fleet. Fortunately, we will only need one ship."
"I see. You plan to send this ship through the wormhole to the other side." San Hill caught on to Dooku's plan. "But who will you send to command this ship? Surely, you don't intend to trust a mission like this to a crew of droids."
"Do not worry about that. I have several candidates in mind." Dooku answered with a smile.
Inner Rim
Corusca Sector
Coruscant System
Coruscant
Jedi Temple
"Anakin, Obi-Wan, we're sending you on a mission to the Milky Way." Windu stated. "Meet with Admiral Kirk and the Federation Council and find out if they have any more of these devices in the works and what they plan to do regarding the apparent creation of this Genesis planet. We must make sure that this Genesis project in no way will become a danger to our galaxy."
"What about the war?" Obi-Wan questioned. "There is no doubt that we will be needed to return to the front lines as soon as possible."
"A pause, the last few battles seem to have created, they have. Possible it is, that Dooku has learned of Genesis." Yoda answered.
"Masters, I should bring up something I learned from Senator Amidala. In addition to this Genesis device, it was reported that Captain Spock was killed in the battle with the terrorists who stole the device." Anakin finally spoke up.
Obi-Wan bowed his head respectfully. "I am sorry to hear that. Captain Spock was someone my own master seemed to respect greatly."
"Captain Spock was also highly respected by the people of Naboo for helping them against the Trade Federation ten years ago." Anakin continued. "Senator Amidala has requested to stay in the Milky Way galaxy a little longer to give her respects to Ambassador Sarek, his wife and the crew of the Enterprise. It's possible she might be able to help."
The Council members shared a look before Windu nodded. "Very well. See what else she might be able to learn from what has happened."
"May the Force be with you." Yoda stated, ending the council meeting.
Anakin and Obi-Wan bowed before heading to the door.
Serenno
Dooku's Castle
Dozens of ships landed in the massive courtyard surrounding Count Dooku's palace and from the ships disembarked dozens of beings who watched as Count Dooku approached, escorted by two Magna guards. Looking across the crowd Dooku could already make out faces more familiar than others.
Cad Bane, the Duros Bounty who was currently hailed as the top Bounty Hunter in the galaxy.
Aurra Sing, a Jedi-killer who was wanted for killing a dozen Jedi and hated them almost as much as Grievous did.
The Trandoshin bounty hunter known as Bossk.
A human bounty hunter named Dengar.
A Rodian named Greedo.
And surprisingly, Boba Fett, the clone and son of the late template for the clone army Jango Fett whose presence was unexpected and yet welcome.
"Welcome, everyone. Thank you for accepting my invitation." Dooku greeted grandly. "As you are no doubt aware by now there has been a great change in the galaxy. Now I have invited you all here to take place in perhaps the greatest find in the history of our galaxy. Now, I trust you are all familiar with the Milky Way Galaxy."
No one spoke up but Dooku knew that they knew about the Milky Way.
"It has come to our attention that the Federation, make that the United Federation of Planets has developed an experimental device known as the Genesis device." Dooku then showed them recording of the Genesis device along with Admiral Kirk's report.
Dooku could see everyone was listening intently now, most of them in disbelief over the fact that there was a device that could literally make planets.
"Your mission, if you choose to accept it is to escort an informant with in-depth knowledge of the Milky Way through Federation space to this Genesis planet and discover whatever you can about this device. There will be a reward of over thirty million if you succeed, each of you should you succeed in finding and bringing back one of the surviving scientists who were involved in the creation of the device. You will be provided with intel on the possible locations of these scientists as best as possible and to ensure you are not discovered, we have provided a unique method of transportation." Dooku adjusted the holoprojector to show a Providence class destroyer. "This is the Corpulentus. One of the few ships in our fleet that has been modified with a cloaking device."
That caused many of the bounty hunters to perk up.
"Using this vessel, you will sneak into Federation space through the wormhole and pass the security on both sides." Dooku continued. "Then you will make your way to the Genesis planet to carry out your mission. Does anyone wish to decline this offer?"
No one answered that question.
"Good." Dooku smiled as his droids handed data pads to all of the hunters. "These pads contain all available knowledge on Federation space but be warned it does not contain information on Starfleet's movements and numbers."
Cad Bane finally spoke up once he grabbed the pad offered to him. "And who is this informant of yours?"
"That, my good sir would be me." A voice spoke from behind Dooku as a grinning man stepped forward, twirling his moustache and tipped his own cowboy hat to Bane. "Harry Mudd, pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Bane just looked the man over, not looking impressed. "This is the one?"
"Mr. Mudd is from the Milky Way Galaxy and is quite knowledgeable of Starfleet. He will allow you to slip through and reach the Genesis planet to carry out your mission." Dooku looked at each bounty hunter. "Now, are you all ready to begin?"
The bounty hunters all murmured in agreement.
"Then let us begin."