Welcome to an alternate Star Wars universe, where the fall of the Republic and the Jedi Order happened much earlier than expected.
In this world, The Phantom Menace was not just the beginning of a crisis, but the total collapse of democracy. The invasion of Naboo marked the beginning of a war that no one could stop. The Jedi Council fell before it could react. Coruscant burns under the rule of the new Empire. And the galaxy, mired in fear, has forgotten what the guardians of peace once represented.
But hope is not lost.
Amid the chaos that consumes the galaxy, an ancient prophecy still resonates in the Force, a whisper that cannot be ignored. Anakin Skywalker, a child born into slavery in the arid deserts of Tatooine, has been singled out as the Chosen One, the one whose actions, according to ancient Jedi predictions, will bring the long-awaited balance to the Force. According to the Jedi's predictions, their power is unmatched, and their destiny is marked by a greatness they do not yet understand.
And although his origins are humble and his paths uncertain, many believe that Anakin is the last hope of the galaxy, the only spark of light capable of defying the darkness that has taken control of the Empire. However, with his destiny marked by the Force, his burden is as great as the power he possesses. His path will be filled with uncertainty, and only time will tell if he can fulfill the prophecy that makes him the key to the galaxy's survival.
But Anakin will not be alone in his mission. At his side, ever faithful, are his companions and friends, those who share his cause and support him every step of the way. Together, they will face the impossible, knowing that the strength of their union will be what drives them forward, even in the darkest of times:
Obi-Wan Kenobi, a young Jedi with no master or temple to return to, who will take on a sacred mission: to train and guide the Chosen One. Although his training is not complete and the Jedi Order has been destroyed, Obi-Wan will remain stuck to his duty, determined to teach Anakin everything he knows. With every battle, every defeat, and every victory, the bond between master and apprentice will be strengthened, because in a dark galaxy, the Force still has a plan.
Padmé Amidala, who was once queen of Naboo, a young leader willing to do anything for her people. Now she's a fugitive who carries the guilt of not being able to save her world. However, his spirit remains intact. He will not let injustice and oppression dominate the galaxy without a fight. Padmé will become the voice of the hopeless, the spark of rebellion brewing in the shadows. And in Anakin he has found more than just an ally. From their first meeting, an invisible bond unites them. War will force them to depend on each other, to trust even in the midst of despair. But what is now just a friendship full of affection and understanding could be transformed into something deeper... something that would challenge not only the fate of the galaxy, but also the rules that have defined them.
Jar Jar Binks, though seen by many as a clumsy and inexperienced being, will soon find in this struggle something greater than himself. At first, his involvement seemed like an accident, a mistake of fate. But in time, Jar Jar will come to understand the magnitude of the cause his friends are fighting for. And while his appearance and manner may make him seem like a burden, his acts of bravery and unwavering loyalty have placed him alongside the heroes fighting for a better future.
The inseparable droids C-3PO and R2-D2 will become essential pieces in the fight for freedom. C-3PO, with his refined knowledge of languages and organized nature, will offer wisdom in the most crucial moments, while R2-D2, always brave and resourceful, will excel in the most dangerous missions. Their loyalty and bravery, though often overlooked, will be the key to saving their friends on more than one occasion.
And an unexpected member. At times, their missions will be guided by a mysterious presence, a being whose existence seems to defy all logic. In moments of desperation, when the weight of the galaxy threatens to crush them, this guide will appear. Sent by the Force itself, its purpose will be clear: to point the right way and keep hope alive in the midst of chaos. His presence will be a reminder that even though the dark side of ambition has sown conflict, the light will always have a way for those who do not lose faith.
Along their journey, they will find allies in the most unexpected corners: hidden rebels, betrayed senators, soldiers who still remember the true meaning of honor. The struggle against the Empire is uneven, but hope is still alive in those who will dare to challenge it.
In a galaxy where the Dark Side has already triumphed, the battle for freedom is just beginning.
Disclaimer:
Star Wars and all its characters, places, and concepts belong to Lucasfilm Ltd. and Disney. This is a fanfiction work created on a non-profit basis, solely for the purpose of entertaining and paying homage to the Star Wars universe.
The events and developments presented in this story occur in an alternate universe and are not part of the official canon. All modifications to the original story, as well as any original characters that may appear, are the creation of the author.
This fanfiction is written by and for fans, without any intention of infringing copyright.
Notice:
English is not my original language. I appreciate your understanding and patience if there are any errors or inconsistencies in the text.
That said. With the galaxy plunged into darkness and hope burning in the hearts of a few, now yes... Let's start with the story.
The struggle for freedom, for the future of the Republic, and for the fate of the Force begins here.
STARS DESTINIES - VOLUME 1
THE TWILIGHT OF THE REPUBLIC - CHAPTER 1
The vast expanse of space shone with a deceptive calm. The stars twinkled in the dark immensity, oblivious to the conflicts that were beginning to brew in the depths of the galaxy. The Galactic Republic, once a beacon of stability, was now teetering on the brink of crisis. The outer systems, far from Coruscant's glowing core, felt the weight of discontent and the echo of an uncertain future.
A tension of such magnitude did not go unnoticed by the Jedi Order, an ancient order of guardians who watched over the galaxy, guided by the Force and a code of discipline based on balance, peace and justice.
Master Kit Fisto and his apprentice Nahdar Vebb were returning to the Jedi Temple, mired in growing worry. The recent mission had left in their hearts a concern that they could not dispel. During the confrontation with a feared leader of a crime family, before succumbing to his wounds, the man had whispered a revelation to them that chilled their veins:
"No matter how hard you strive for peace, Jedi. Deep down, they unknowingly work for the most powerful of the Sith lords, and in their blindness, they strengthen him. The end of the Republic is near, and with it, the fall of its order."
The criminal's words echoed like an ominous echo in their minds as they traveled through the stellar void. Was it possible that they were really unconsciously fueling the darkness that was coming? The weight of doubt was beginning to form cracks in their conviction, and though the Force continued to guide them, the shadow of uncertainty rose higher and higher.
Master Fisto, experienced and serene, felt the pressure of the unanswered question, but he remained calm, knowing that in the darkest of times, the Jedi must remain steadfast in their faith and purpose. However, in his young apprentice, Nahdar, the uneasiness was palpable. The threat from the Sith seemed more real than ever, and their loyalty to the Jedi Order was beginning to falter at the prospect of such a terrifying truth.
Back at the Jedi Temple, the Padawan tried to meditate, but the criminal's words did not leave him. He thought of the Senate's erratic decisions, the endless conflicts, and the way Supreme Chancellor Palpatine had amassed more and more power under the guise of galactic security.
Moments later, the Jedi Council gathered in the meditation room, the air heavy with the palpable tension that had arisen after Kit Fisto and Nahdar Vebb's last mission. The large seats of the members of the Council were occupied, the shadows of the dim lighting casting a solemn and determined atmosphere. Maestro Fisto, always calm, stood before them, his face serious but imperturbable. Nahdar, beside him, could not hide the uneasiness in his eyes.
"Master Fisto," Master Windu began in a soft but authoritative voice, "What news do you bring from your mission? What is so urgent that you have brought us together at this time?"
Fisto took a deep breath before answering, feeling the weight of the words he was meant to share.
"During our confrontation with Aqueeron Boiseg, this man revealed something to us that we cannot ignore. He told us that despite our efforts to keep the peace, we are unknowingly strengthening the most powerful of the Sith. The end of the Republic and of our Order is near."
A murmur ran through the room. The faces of the Jedi Masters became serious, some surprised, some worried, but all intrigued.
"Although his words could be manipulations of a dying man," Fisto continued, "We cannot ignore them. We must investigate. The Force has spoken to us, but the shadows are rising and we need to be prepared."
The Jedi Council room was in a dense atmosphere. The conversation about the criminal's revelations continued, but Kit Fisto couldn't stop thinking about his apprentice's anguish.
Despite the words of warning, Nahdar had been restless since they returned from the mission, and doubt gnawed at him. Fisto knew that his young apprentice wanted to do more than wait, but he feared that impatience would lead him to make a mistake.
The young Padawan began to analyze recent events with a more critical eye. He recalled reports about how Palpatine had survived countless bombings, how he seemed to always be one step ahead. The mon calamari also reviewed historical records, looking for patterns in the fall of the Republic and the emergence of crises that seemed to conveniently arise to justify the Chancellor's actions.
The last piece of the puzzle came when Nahdar intercepted a coded message addressed to General Grievous. In it, a dark, authoritative voice gave orders with surgical precision, orders that anticipated the movements of the Jedi and the Republic. The voice lacked the kindness and patience that usually adorned the words of the Chancellor. Instead, she was cold, unforgiving, imbued with a dark power that made your skin crawl. And yet, there was no doubt: it was Palpatine.
Nahdar was paralyzed by the discovery. I didn't want to believe it. The Chancellor, the man who had led the Republic for years, who had been an ally of the Jedi, was actually a Sith Lord.
In his youth and impulsiveness, he forgot to be cautious. He decided that he must act on his own, even if it meant hiding his intentions even from his Master.
While the Council continued its deliberation, Fisto was distracted for a moment by looking out the window of the room. It was at that precise moment that he saw a figure speeding away down the corridor. It was Nahdar, with a firm and determined step. Without a word, the young Jedi left the temple, leaving the argument behind. I hadn't informed anyone, I hadn't asked permission. There was only one thing on his mind: to confront the Chancellor.
Several systems away from the Republic's core rises Naboo, a planet known for its majestic serenity, where verdant grasslands stretch to the horizon and vast oceans reflect sunlight. However, that idyllic beauty hides a growing threat. The Trade Federation, guided by its insatiable ambition, has set its sights on this peaceful world, seeing it not only as a strategic resource, but as an opportunity to consolidate its dominance and expand its influence over numerous star systems.
Trade routes, vital to the survival of millions, were suffocated under the control of the Trade Federation. And now, with the blockade imposed on Naboo, the Galactic Senate was paralyzed in endless debates.
In an effort to resolve the conflict peacefully, the Supreme Chancellor sends two Jedi Knights, the wise Qui-Gon Jinn and his young apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi, to negotiate with the Federation.
However, upon boarding the Federation flagship, the Jedi discover that the group's intentions are far more sinister than expected. Under the influence of Darth Sidious, a shadowy Sith Lord who operates from the shadows, Federation leaders attempt to assassinate the Jedi, who manage to escape after facing droidekas and battle troopers.
On their escape, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan discover that the Federation has plans to invade Naboo with an army of droids to force the planet's queen, Padmé Amidala, to sign a treaty legitimizing its occupation.
This revelation marks the beginning of a dangerous mission for the Jedi, who decide to infiltrate Naboo to protect the queen and expose the dark plans behind the conflict.
On the planet, Qui-Gon saves a clumsy, but well-meaning Gungan named Jar Jar Binks, who joins the Jedi and guides them to their underwater city, Otoh Gunga.
There, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan negotiate with the Gungan leader, Boss Nass, who initially shows distrust towards them. However, convinced by Qui-Gon, Boss Nass lends them an underwater transport so that they can traverse the planet's core and quickly reach Theed, the capital of Naboo. Forced by Boss Nass, Jar Jar joins the team, becoming part of their mission.
Upon arriving in Theed, Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Jar Jar find the city occupied by Federation forces. Battle droids patrol the streets, and Queen Padmé Amidala has been captured with her entourage. While escorted under guard, the Jedi intervene, using their lightsaber skills to defeat the droids guarding the queen and her group.
Amidala, though initially suspicious, follows the Jedi as she realizes that they represent her only hope to escape the Federation's control.
"We can't stay here long," says the Jedi master, "The Federation will soon notice his absence. We must leave Naboo and seek help on Coruscant."
"The real hangar should have a ship fast enough to get past the blockade," adds his apprentice, "But it won't be easy to get there."
"My lady, what do you suggest?" Typho asks who the Jedi believe to be Queen Amidala, but is actually a decoy of the queen "The safety of her people depends on her decisions"
"Coruscant could take too long," Sabé says, pretending to be the queen "If we fail to escape, we will put the rest of our people at risk."
"There is another option... a secret refuge in the mountains" says Padmé, who the Jedi think is just a lady-in-waiting and find it odd that she intervenes in the discussion "It's safe and completely out of reach of the Federation"
"A shelter?" Obi-Wan asks, "What kind of place is that?"
"That shelter was built generations ago, in case Naboo ever faced an external threat," Sabé explains. "It's well hidden, and we'll be safe there while we decide our next step."
"It's a wise decision, your majesty," Qui-Gon tells him, "Hiding might be our best option for now. You lead the way"
"But we need to move fast," the lady-in-waiting intervenes again, "The Federation droids won't stop until they find all the leaders of Naboo."
"Mountains! They sure have big beasts!" Jar Jar interrupts: "Mass doesn't like dangerous places!"
"We will not be alone, Jar Jar" The Padawan tells him "Remember that we must always rely on the Force"
The group nods, and they quickly change course, heading towards the outskirts of Theed. A secret refuge hidden in the mountains of Naboo, an ancient fortress that only a few know about. From there, the queen and the Jedi will plan their next moves as they try to gather allies to confront the Federation.
With Sabé guiding them, they arrive at the refuge, a place protected by nature and away from the main routes of the Federation, which offers them a temporary respite. There, the group begins to assess how they could mobilize the Gungans and other potential allies to resist the occupation.
Night is slowly falling on Naboo, and the sound of footsteps and conversations mingle with the wind rustling through the trees. Finally, they arrive at the refuge, a fortress hidden among the mountains, protected by a thick layer of vegetation.
"Here we are. This is the refuge," says Sabé "It has been hidden since ancient times, and only a few know its location."
"What we have done so far has been just the beginning," Qui-Gon informs them, "We need to gather forces, not only on Naboo, but also among the Gungans and other alliances. The Federation will not rest.
During conversations and joint actions with the Jedi, Padmé, in her role as maiden, observes that they have a genuine commitment to the well-being of Naboo and the fight for justice. Unlike others, they do not seek power or personal control, but are willing to sacrifice themselves for the common good. This loyalty gives Padmé the assurance that she can trust them.
That's why, realizing that the Jedi have proven themselves trustworthy, she knows she can no longer hide her true identity.
Finally, he stands up with determination and heads towards the center of the shelter, where Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, and Sabé are gathered around a holographic map, mapping out possible strategies. The dim light of the lamps barely illuminates their concentrated faces.
Sabé observes her and gestures for her to come closer.
"Everything in order, Padmé?" she asks quietly, knowing that something important is brewing in the queen's mind.
Padmé takes a deep breath and walks closer.
"There is something I must tell you. Something that, until this moment, I have hidden to protect my life and that of Naboo." Her words are serious, but not shaky and she gets the attention of the Jedi "I am not the maiden I have pretended to be during this time. I'm Queen Amidala. The woman who has led this planet, she is my loyal bodyguard who occupied my position to protect me."
A light breeze enters the shelter as the eyes of the Jedi rest on it. Qui-Gon is the first to react, his face unperturbed, but his eyes show understanding and respect.
"I understand," he says, his voice deep and calm, "He's made a difficult decision, but what he's done has been for the good of Naboo. His courage and wisdom are reflected in his actions."
Obi-Wan nods, and although his countenance is more serious, there is an expression of respect in his eyes.
"We know that this fight is much bigger than any one individual, and we are confident that what he does will be the right thing for everyone. The important thing now is that we have to act together, without more secrets"
Sabé looks at Padmé, her unwavering loyalty, and without saying a word, places her hand on her shoulder in support. Padmé feels a mixture of relief and gratitude, as she knows that now, more than ever, she is not alone.
"We can begin to gather the forces we need to take on the Federation," Qui-Gon says, breaking the silence "Not only on Naboo, but also in other systems that have been threatened. Our union is our greatest strength."
Padmé nods, her decision made.
"We will do it, and with your help, together we will achieve what seems impossible."
The tension in the air dissipates, replaced by a sense of unity. Padmé has finally taken the first step toward freeing her people, and with the Jedi at her side, she knows they have a real chance to defeat the Federation and restore peace to Naboo.
Meanwhile, following the trail of the Force, Nahdar managed to infiltrate the Chancellor's offices on Coruscant. The young Padawan breathed deeply, his hands steady on the lightsaber as he approached the Chancellor's office.
His heart was pounding, not only from adrenaline, but from the certainty of what he should do: face Palpatine and stop his dark plans before it was too late. He had gone alone, without warning anyone, convinced that if he caught the Chancellor on his own turf, he could act quickly and nip in the bud the threat he represented.
However, as he entered the office, he was greeted by an eerie calm. Palpatine was sitting behind his desk, as if nothing was out of the ordinary. There were no signs of surprise on his face, not even alarm. Just that enigmatic smile and calm that characterized him so much. But soon that countenance changed to one of feigned anguish.
"What's the matter, young Padawan?" Palpatine asked, looking up, "Any danger? Or why do you arrive with your saber ready to fight?"
Nahdar unhesitatingly activated his lightsaber, the green flash illuminating the space.
"I... I have come to stop you. We know what you are. We know you're a Sith, and I won't allow you to continue manipulating the Republic."
Palpatine slowly rose from his chair with his eyes shining with a mixture of amusement and disdain. With a flowing gesture, his hands reached out towards his waist, and in the blink of an eye, his lightsaber lit up, its blood-red blade cutting through the darkness of the office.
"Stop me?" Palpatine smiled coldly, "Curious, young Nahdar. I thought the Jedi Council would send someone else... experienced"
"Your days of manipulating the Republic are over!"
"Poor boy. Always so blinded by the light... who never see the shadows until it's too late. You have made the mistake of believing that the Force can only be used for justice and peace. But there is another way. And you, like all Jedi, do not understand the real power that I possess."
With a cry of determination, Nahdar attacked. He advanced swiftly toward Palpatine, his green saber streaking through the air with precision and fury. However, Palpatine moved with terrifying calmness, anticipating the young Jedi's every move. With a twist of his saber, he blocked Nahdar's attack effortlessly, and with a Force thrust, sent him flying backwards, crashing to the ground.
"Your impatience will be your undoing," Palpatine murmured.
As Nahdar quickly stood up with a face marked by frustration. I couldn't believe what was happening. He had trained all his life for this, and yet the Chancellor mastered it so easily.
Nahdar did not give up. He got up, his body tense, and attacked again, this time with faster, more aggressive movements. But Palpatine, time and again, blocked every punch. The difference in skill and power was abysmal. Every time Nahdar attempted a cut, Palpatine responded with a Force paralysis or an unstoppable counterpunch.
"You are no match for me," Palpatine said, raising his saber in the air. "You and all the Jedi are too confident in their code and their morality. But the Force is so much more than what you have learned. My power is absolute."
With a swift motion, Palpatine crossed his saber, disarming Nahdar and knocking his lightsaber to the ground. The young Jedi stepped back, gasping with exertion and fatigue. The truth he had denied for so long was evident: he had no chance against the Chancellor.
"It's useless," Palpatine continued, approaching the young Jedi who was now kneeling before him. "You have courage, but you lack the necessary wisdom. You were always a pawn in a game much bigger than you. And now, your life will be extinguished like that of so many other Jedi who could not see beyond the darkness."
With a wave of his hand, Palpatine used the Force to lift Nahdar off the ground, suspending him in the air. With a cruel smile, he held his lightsaber close to the young man's chest.
"The end of the Jedi is near," he said, his voice deep and full of satisfaction, "And you will be the first to fall."
With one last flash of red light, Palpatine's saber pierced Nahdar Vebb's heart. The young Padawan, unable to resist, fell to the ground lifeless, leaving a trail of despair in the air. Palpatine watched his fall with indifference, knowing that this was only the beginning of what was to come.
The Chancellor's office, once a place of political power, now became the scene of yet another victory for the Sith. Palpatine turned off his lightsaber with his gaze fixed on Nahdar's corpse, then turned to the window, surveying Coruscant's vast horizon. The plan was in motion, and there was nothing and no one who could stop it.
The Chancellor's office was gloomy, as Palpatine stood still, his gaze fixed on his young opponent's body, as the Force echoed through his being, giving him a sense of absolute power. He had succeeded in eliminating another obstacle, another Jedi who, like all others, had fallen before the inevitability of his dominion.
Suddenly, the door of the office burst open, and a young figure burst into the room. It was Rey Palpatine, the Chancellor's spoiled daughter, her face youthful and full of emotion. He had returned from his shopping, his hands laden with luxury bags. Seeing Nahdar's corpse on the ground, a flash of surprise flashed across his face, quickly followed by a confused expression.
"Father!" she exclaimed, dropping the bags on the ground. "What have you done? What happened? Why is this dead Jedi here?"
Palpatine, always calculating, showed no sign of remorse. He turned to his daughter with a smile that couldn't touch her eyes.
"Rey, honey," he said in a soft, calm voice, as if nothing was out of the ordinary. "This Jedi tried to confront me. What you see is just the result of their arrogance."
Rey took a step back, her face pale with initial surprise. She approached Nahdar's body, staring at the corpse with a mixture of disgust and bewilderment, but quickly her gaze changed. It was as if the fear she had felt for a moment had dissolved, replaced by a slight discomfort, as if the Jedi's suffering was but a small setback in her day.
"But... why didn't you wait for me?" She asked, her tone mixed with irritation, "I thought we were in this together."
Palpatine watched her silently, unsurprised. It was a typical reaction of his daughter, always focused on herself, unable to comprehend the larger realities he ruled. Nonetheless, he decided to remain calm, knowing that his daughter, though capricious, still had a role to play in his plans.
"I'm sorry, Rey" the Chancellor said in a soft voice, but with an authority that made it clear that he would not tolerate any more complaints. "Circumstances changed, and this Jedi had to be eliminated. What matters now is that we have taken another step towards the future of the galaxy. You should also begin to understand that not everything in life can be organized according to your whims."
Rey snorted and looked at Nahdar's corpse once more, but this time her eyes did not reflect fear, but indifference.
"Sometimes I feel like you're not even my father. You don't wait for me, nor do you include me in your plans," she said, expanding a somewhat more sarcastic tone. "But hey, I guess you killed this Jedi in my honor, right?"
Palpatine watched her for a moment, assessing her attitude with a cold gaze.
"Of course. But now there are far more important things to take care of than your little wishes, Rey. The Jedi are a threat to the order I'm building. That's why I'm taking steps to eradicate them," he added, smiling with a touch of irony. "But don't worry, you'll have everything you want, as long as you follow the path I've laid out for you."
Rey, upon hearing her father's words, seemed relieved, though only in part. Her face softened, and her eyes flashed with a mixture of admiration and ambition.
"Okay, but make sure that in the next steps of your plan you don't leave me out. I'm tired of pretending to be the chancellor's silly daughter, the one who only lives to go shopping. I want everyone to see my true power... and let them tremble before him"
"Patience, my dear. Soon enough, everyone will witness your true potential. There will be no force standing in your way. You will become the supreme symbol of my authority... and in the nightmare of those who dare to challenge us"
As Palpatine watched his daughter, a slight smile curled his lips. Although Rey did not yet understand the full magnitude of what was at stake, he knew that with time she would. And in the meantime, his daughter, by her very nature, would continue to be one more piece in his great galactic chess.
Shadows spread over the galaxy, shrouding it in a blanket of oppression and hopelessness. But even in the most utter darkness, the Force continues to whisper, guiding those who still have the courage to hear its call. Whispers of hope, warnings of fate... echoes of a future not yet written, a call that only those willing to defy fate can understand.
The path of our heroes is just beginning, it is plagued by uncertainty, and every decision, every battle, tips the balance between light and shadow. And every step they take will bring them closer to the truth or to their own doom. Their fight is not only for survival, but for the very soul of the galaxy. What is to come will test your courage, your faith, and your will to move forward. For their fates hang in the balance, fragile and changing, and the next step in their journey could mark the beginning of the fall... or the dawn of hope.
Will they be prepared to face what is coming? The story continues...
Thank you for reading! This story is a unique adventure, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on it. If you enjoyed it, or if you have any suggestions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Your support makes all the difference and motivates me to keep writing!
I hope you enjoyed this chapter! Thank you so much for reading, and I look forward to seeing you in the next one!