(This chapter wouldn't be possible without the help of anonmike217, follow him)
(Warning it is a very long chapter)


Conflict With no end in sight. Across the galaxy, the quagmire of war continues. While clone troopers suffer casualties at alarming rates, The galactic senate convenes an emergency session To debate the true cost of the war.


Inside a meeting room on Coruscant, every representative from across republic space yelled at each other about the cost of clone troopers, some say there should be more troops on the field but if this were to happen, Coruscant would be bankrupt. Those who are against it will also suffer against the everlasting tides of droids that would overwhelm the troops that were present, this may lead them vulnerable to a Separatist attack even victory if the act was not passed. A Chagrian Grand Vizier named Mas Amedda tried to calm down the people.

'Order! Order! Let senator Saam finish' Saam moved his seat and began speaking into the camera.

'This is a matter not of philosophy, more troops are needed, The Republic cannot afford to let the separatists gain any more ground' Then a man moved his chair forward, he was a middle aged man with a beard also wearing robes, his name was Bail Organa. Leading voice of the republic anti-war party.

'Our generals inform us that troops in the field continue to perform valiantly, what we cannot afford, is to be irresponsible, The Republic is near bankruptcy due to the cost of this war' Hearing the senators yelling support and against his proposal. Seeing that the senate was still divided and taking his opportunity as a politician, a Neimoidian wearing his race's cultural special of tall hats named Lott Dod. A representative of the banking clan. Flew his chair next to Saam. His co-conspirator of the irrelevant species of Ishi Tib. a race of reptilian bird-like creatures.

'Bankruptcy is not necessary, my friends, if we pass senator Saam's bill to open new lines of credit, We will gain access to the needed funds'

'Won't this bill essentially deregulate the banks?' Mon Mothma countered the proposed Saam's bill to give more money to the banking clans.

'A small price to pay to finance the war, is it not?' Halle Burtoni countered. Aiming to keep Kamino species the full time employers of the republic. This revelation caused the politicians to argue again, yelling at each other, Wanting to keep the war going until absolute victory can be achieved. Padmae saw the yelling unfold seeing her support for peace waning and had enough standing up from her chair to speak.

'Do you hear yourselves? More money, more clones, more war, say nothing of fiscal responsibility, What about moral responsibility? Hasn't this war gone on long enough?'

'Senator Amidala, are you suggesting we surrender to the separatists?' Saam asked. Sensing that if she keeps talking his plan of earning billions would be for nought.

'Of course not. But negotiation might be a better course of action.' Padme changed their politicians' focus away from the bill and towards the fact that they can't reason with the Separatist.

'You can't negotiate with those animals, keep the war going, Vote now!' Mot-Not Rab yelled out getting a mob of like minded politicians as they began chanting Vote now. Being watched on by three Jedi knights and a clone on shore leave in official republic records. This is when Bail Organa steps in. Buying time for the anti-war party to collect their counter arguments and plans to turn the wheel of democracy.

'Members of the senate, I suggest we table any emergency bill until it is determined whether or not deregulation Is the right course of action' With the politicians calming down and looking at each other agreeing that it has been a long day of debating and wanting to rest. Mas Amedda nodded and agreed with his statement. Following the script that was prepared for such a scenario.

'Very well. We shall let calmer heads prevail'


After the meeting three of the banking clan senators met secretly. These three being Lott Dod, Gume Saam, and Nix Card.

'That legislation would have meant billions for us' Nix said. Upset that he had to miss that particular meeting and had to be filled in on their failure of draining the republic finances dry.

'I tried my best to push the bill through' Saam pleaded to not be kicked out of the group.

'You did your part, representative, Senator Amidala is the problem' Lott said. Putting some bandages over the wound. However, pointing out a problem that they needed to address. Nix sat on his chair. Disappointed that Padme still is a thorne at their side even now.

'I thought age might temper her idealism'

'I know people who could do something about her' Saam implied trying to get rid of her.

'That task is more difficult than you presume' Knowing she has friends in high places.

'Gentlemen, the banking clan and trade federation Are about business, not violence' Nix reminded them.

'Hmm, in this case, our business is violence' Lott added, Nix not fighting the reason. Just making some choice words realizing a plan to grease the wheel of democracy in their favor.

'Precisely, with or without senator Amidala, the galactic senate Is unlikely to deregulate the banks. until this war hits home'

'What exactly are you proposing?' Lott asked. Nixx looked over at the city calculating the damages that were going to happen if some arranged accident were to happen close to home.

'Perhaps some unexpected bloodshed on Coruscant, Uh, may change a few minds' Lott not really in on the plan as those thousand of years may have hardened their minds.

'Coruscant? Coruscant has not been attacked in over 1,000 years' Nix stood from his chair. Delivering his counter argument.

'Then it has a false sense of security, there are some powerful clients on the other side who could help us, uh, shall we say, make the point?' The three gathered around making their preparations as they figured out a scheme to win this bill.

'Ooh, I like this plan' Saam said, trying to be part of the group.

'No one cares what you think' reminding Saam that he is irrelevant as his species in the galactic scheme of things.


After the senate hearing. Padmé's personal friends and her secret contacts at the confederacy side of space were walking with her as they passed through the senators that were gathering at the hallway of the senate building conversing about the bill and where their support lies. Feeling it all suffocating as she was the only one fighting the senate corruption.

'You must ask for the Jedi Council to speak with Chancellor Palpatine' Anakin, not liking any interaction with the Jedi council, snapped back before checking his tone not wanting to be hostile to Padmé.

'Don't involve me in this' Padmé knowing Anakin's miss giving with the Council pressed again trying for the peace angle.

'A peaceful solution is the way out of this morass of war' Anakin's understanding about his place in the Jedi order was not something he could do.

'That's not my role Padmé'

'Why not? Why isn't it your role?' Ahsoka now running up next to Padmé in front of her now challenging Anakin stance on no interference in the greater political landscape.

'Aren't we Jedi Knights? Isn't it our duty to speak our minds to advise the Chancellor?' Anakin tried to not answer her question as he was close with the chancellor already speaking his mind but found that he listened and agreed on most of what he said. Thankfully the Leader of the Coruscant Guard, now army commander of The Grenadiers, Fordo spoke up for him.

'Jedi and Clones sometimes do, but it is always about matters of war and state, we rarely have time for pleasantries' Ahsoka, now turning to Fordo, decided to press on with her questioning.

'Why not? A simple hello or opinions on things rarely require a lot of time does it not?' Fordo sighed. He tried sometimes but it's always been brief and about the next mission turning neutral planets against each other in this great plan of his.

'I wish Ahsoka, there is a great deal of politics that even me or the Jedi don't understand, I'm hoping Padmé can help you on that front' Padmé nodded understanding about some implications of Fordo missions having a dark sense of victory during her personal request to save VIP's trapped behind confederate lines and prisoner exchanges.

'After today's event I was hoping she learned a great deal' Ashoka just shook her head not understanding any of the events that happened today.

'Truthfully? I don't understand any of it' Now going off on her understanding of the war at large.

'I know the separatists are evil, but all everyone argued about was banking deregulation, interest rates, and well, almost nothing about why we're fighting in the first place' Anakin wanting to simplify the reasons tried to explain it the best he could but was beaten to the punch as Kird was finishing his smoke break telling his views of why the senate argued about the money flow rather than senators.

'War, young padawan is not as simple as eliminat dha enemy, yousa have to fund, train, and manage yous forces to defend yous worlds from dha enemy attack, a simple reason dat would further complicate how to fight effectively as more and more facilities needed to sustain dha effort grows or disappears as more defeats and victories increase dha cost of victory, as of now wesa at a standstill figur out if wesa can win dha war as is or have to sacrifice our homes to support our fight in dha front while dha people starve in dha back' Ashoka nods, getting some of his reasoning but not why they fight in the first place.

'More like how they can line their pockets before the war ends' Fordo whispered underneath his breath. But the three heard Fordo said and nodded understanding that corruption is prevalent on all aspects.

'Maybe talking to the Jedi council isn't for you Anakin' she looked at Anakin smirking a bit while he soured not being able to tell his explanation on how the separatists are evil and the Republic is good.

'Thanks for your help' Kird nodded his head.

'Cmon Ahsoka I need your help with something' Ahsoka followed along with Kird and Fordo who's here for a different mission.

'Hey' Noticing that he was being excluded.

'Fordo did want me to teach your padawan about politics' The three looked back and shrugged leaving Anakin a bit sour but understanding that Kird and Fordo were good men. Even helped his 501st out of a couple of close calls during the dogfight against those pirate mercenaries of Zaun.

'So I'm going to' Padmé said as she walked to her office to discuss lessons, plans, and favors to ensure this bill is defeated.


Deep in confederacy space. Grievous was on his way to pick up some new materials for his campaign against these pirate scum. Who's been getting bolder and bolder as they've been using different kinds of weapons and biotechnology to give them the advantage against the droids. His plans on launching the campaign on the independent planets harboring this unofficial third faction were halted as he received a priority one message from Count Dooku himself.

'There is a problem situation brewing in the Senate' Grievous sneered and kept himself in check to not backchat Dooku as there is a problem here of their supposed puppet senate. Instead just tapping his claws at his command seat.

'We must ensure that everything my master has set in motion does not unhinge' Grievous watched, listening to what Dooku had to say.

'My representatives in the republic are relying on you, General. See that your droids complete their mission.'

'But of course, Count, they will not fail,' Grievous said, turning off the transmission. It's a good thing he did as he just received another report that his supply transport carrying the troops for the ground invasion was stolen.


Slamming his fists onto the command seat as yet another delay in his campaign hampered his needed time to vent. As his supposed endless supply of droids kept facing supply issues from this republic force. Leaning back on his chair he put up the report on screen reading its content. Seeing that the transport and its escort was shut down from an emp blast giving this so called Grenadiers time to reroute the command protocols to their ships.

Hoping to find where they are taking this transport Computer estimates show that the transport is long gone and sold off to help fund Padmé campaign against the war and spotting an interesting detail about how the leader of this pest is on shore leave. Right at the spot where his original mission needs to be accomplished. Pushing a button on his command seat he spoke to the quartermaster droid in charge of the mission wanting to have some personal revenge against this Kird.

'Droid, make another set of the bombs used for the Coruscant mission, we are expanding the scale of destruction'

'Roger Roger' came the quartermaster's reply. Grievous laughed then coughed realizing he finally gets to have a chance to deal with these pests that keep hampering the droid war effort. And finally avenge the humiliation of getting his leg blown off all those months ago.


At the internal troop bay of the Grievous ship. Grievous himself was listening in on Count Dooku and next to him was Nix Card by an encrypted comms chatter.

'Have all the preparations been made?' Dooku asked.

'I'm about to deploy The infiltrators' leaving out some for his personal endeavors.

'You must hurry, the senate is restless' Nix reminded the General.

'I don't take orders from you, only Count Dooku' Grievous spat at the weakling before him. Closing the comms he began marching in front of the new infiltrators machine for the Coruscant mission. Preparing a speech he thought up as he awaited these infiltrator droids to finish production.

'Some of you may not return, actually, none of you will return, but don't let that get in your way, is that clear?' Grievous looked at one of the droids who made a morph version of "Roger Roger" showing that he understood. Walking away as the eight of them began transforming into cleaner droids rolling away to await their infiltration shuttle.

'Get them to Coruscant!' He ordered.

'Roger Roger' Came the droid commander's response. Grievous chuckled, finally able to deal a crippling blow to the Grenadiers for these years of cat and mouse. Now their game finally ends.


A simple civilian transport ship flew across space and onto view of the planet Raxus overseeing the separatist ships that flew overhead as a Lucrehulk common ship looms over its dreadnought escort ships over the defense of this planet. Ahsoka, being nervous of the ships they were passing before them, felt nervous hoping that Kird's identification was good. As well as escorting them to this Bonteri. Looking over Padmé who was wearing a cloak and seeing her face shift into a completely different race of human looking to have a bone plate on her head with freckles.

Ahsoka looked up at the ceiling and breathed hoping these disguises would work as she saw the light move around her and hoped disguising as a Mirialan like her friend Barriss would help. Feeling the shuttle touchdown the two walked to where the other passengers were gathering wondering when Kird is going to show up. Feeling a presence they looked back and saw Kird was wearing a mask glared at them with its red lenses with a cone beak pointed out seeing vents on the side to allow ventilation and his ears covered in many mechanical tendrils.

Looking down they saw his breastplate and a circle that shows a laughing monkey. With one arm guarded while the other unguarded by black armor with red trim. Looking down he wore a robe around his waist with armored boots that covered his shins but not the upper legs. Both of them look him up and down a couple of times before looking forward.

'A bit excessive don't you think?' Padmé asked. Kird shrugged.

He was planning on repainting the armor to be less black and red but the white paint kept getting dirtied by battle. Before he could explain, the ship lift lowered down onto the floor where the rest of the passengers moved on. Sensing that their time for talk should be used elsewhere. Walked to their designated meeting spot being stopped by a B3 commander droid who wanted to see their identification. Kird showed them the pass for their identities.

The B3 looked over the documents then nodded. Allowing them to move on. Mentally breathing out a sigh that Kirds false documents worked and seeing one of the women dressed with purple gloves and a dress bowed and gestured to the awaited meeting point. After walking a little bit the crowd of people disbursed as if to do something else rather than standing around the landing sight.

A woman in brown hair dressed in gray wearing gray sleeves turned around revealing herself as Senator Bonteri who has gray eyes and tattoos around her neck and arms looking like a fancy artwork of fishhooks and glass paintings. who smiled albeit a bit nervously at her friend making it all the way here but a little unsettled at their bounty hunter friend appearance as he approached her. Shaking that off she went to greet her old friend.

'Hello, old friend.' walking forward to greet them.

'Ahsoka, this is Miina Bonteri, she was my mentor when I was growing up on Naboo' Ahsoka tilted her head at that.

'Your a separatist?' She questioned not expecting separatists that didn't look like aliens ready for war to be so normal.

'Well, of course, my dear, what were you expecting?' Now turning around to escort them to a transport.

'Now, come, I have a transport waiting'


The transport, shaped to be of an arrow head colored in red with long fins at the back flies overhead overlooking the orange forests as the ship lands on the designated landing hanger of a tall castle overlooking over the hill in gothic architecture of gray and stone. Landing on the hanger pad. The bay opened showing Bonteri escorting the three undisguised in their regular form except Kird who took off his helmet. Being overlooked by a young noble boy looking to be of Ahsoka age as they moved out of the ship. Furrowing his eyes wondering who his mother brought home. Bentoli looked up and smiled.

'Lux, come down here and help our guests with the luggage, please.' The man known as luz stopped leaning over the pole and walked down wearing a fancy collared jacket with black pants His hair well groomed and gray eyes walking down the steps looking over the guests who he had to carry for the luggage.

Seeing only two brought their luggage while an alien that he might recognize but brushed it aside as to talk to him in private. Ahsoka looked at him, not impressed at what she was seeing. Kird looked at the man and nodded, seeing these types of separatists are few and far between in the front lines but here were more common.

'Padmé, it's so good to see you.' Baltonie hugging Padmé with one arm as she leans in walking into their living room. She nodded about how things changed so much in the galaxy today.

'Yes. How things have changed since the last time we met.'

'Let's go inside, there's much to discuss' Baltonie said as she made way for her son to take their friend's bags.

'Please, allow me' Lux bowed as Padmé handed her bag to him. Walking over to Ahsoka to get the other bag.

'May I?' He asked, trying to grab her bag but she pulled the bag away. Not trusting any separatist of any variety.

'I can handle it' She said, she then felt a hand on her shoulder and looked over to see Kird.

'Trust is a duey way streak, Ahsoka, in order for them-sa to hep us wesa must trust them-sa' Ahsoka with much reluctance handed her bag to Lux. As they enter Miina house.


Inside Miina carries drinks for her and Padmé to talk about their visit. Sensing their stay might be a long one. Ahsoka and Kird stood by the hallway waiting for anything really. Padmé looks out of the window, Watching Lux sitting on the stone rails kicking his feet to help fight the boredom.

'He's grown so much, Miina' Padmé commented watching her son through the window. However she wishes it was under better circumstances.

'Time won't stop, even if we are at war, and I'm afraid these events are shaping his young life' Offering her glass to Padmé which she graciously accepts. But something about her sentence set Ahsoka off and wanted her question answered.

'With all due respect, as a separatist, didn't you create this war?' She was then hit in the stomach by Kird's elbow. Who looked confused on why she deserved that.

'Ahsoka!' Padmé yelled. Balotine only laughed remembering the reports on the frontline that they were sending corporate managers in a warzone and she must have fought them giving her a narrow mindset on the war.

'It's all right that's a very polarized point of view, my dear, would it surprise you to know that many of the people you call separatists feel the same way about The Republic And the Jedi?'

Ahsoka furrowed. Remembering that yes they do see that way. Despite them starting the war. Or being in the backlines as their droids fought on in the front.

'Lux's father was like that' Feeling saddened by his departure, missing him everyday. Ashoka raised her eyebrow wondering who this person was and would like to know more on why they view the republic like that. That isn't on the battlefield.

'Maybe I could speak with him' Balotine felt saddened about how he would have loved debating with her. If only he was here.

'If only you could, a year ago next week, he was setting up a base on Aargonar when clones attacked, my husband fought bravely in self-defense, but was killed' Ahsoka tried to respond but couldn't. Realizing she couldn't contribute to the conversation and would make a mess of things she opted to leave.

'Excuse me, I think I'll get some air' She said leaving the room. Leaving the three in the room alone. Balotine turned and looked at Kird, managing to piece together who he was. Being famous and infamous on both sides.

'So you must be the jackal' Kird could only smile remembering how he earned that name from redistributing supplies on all sides to those that desperately needed it. Through some dubious means in almost legal manner in the republic and entirely illegal manner at separatist space.


As the ship carrying other passengers landed on Coruscant disembarking it's passengers. The people exited walking off from the hanger bay and so did the eight cleaning droids. Three Clones assigned to planetary visitors saw those droids.

'Ah, the cleaning droids, finally, don't waste any time, get to work' The eight droids began to split up and began doing their "jobs", awaiting Grievous' orders. Escaping the disgust of three Hex Tech guards who came by waiting for the next ship of passengers to come down. The hexguard sneered at them.

'Look at them, not even worth the spare parts' One of the hexguard sneered knowing their droids were much better then these cobbled mess.

The eight droids just moved along ignoring the comment heading off to the hanger bay following the map implanted in their code to find the jackal ship. Slowing down just a little when they stopped and hearing the reaction of the clones.

'Just like those clones ain't that right' Speaking in just enough volume for the three clones to hear who almost went to punch the daylights out of them but was held back by his buddy telling him it was not worth it. Droids snickered as that was the last bit of joy they would have until their mission was to be complete. Making sure there will be no survivors. And the ship most of all.


Ahsoka walked down the stairs as she was gathering her thoughts about how this war became a lot more complicated. Taking a glance at Jax who looked on thinking about nothing really. Then walked down the stairs about how these separatists were quite different then her own version of separatists. Jax looked at Ahsoka who has her lightsaber out on her belt realizing that she was one of the Jedi that his dad fights against. Looking to strike up a conversation and perhaps change a person's mind spoke to Ahsoka.

'You're a Jedi, Aren't you?' Ahsoka turned around with her hands behind her back.

'Yes, why do you ask?' Getting the measure of him. Wondering what makes him different then the separatists he fought. Jax continued.

'Before the war, I was always told Jedi were good.' Ahsoka tilted her head. Jax hopped off the staircase thinking about the complicated nature of what he saw and what he was told. Finding it all confusing with no side being truly in the right.

'I don't know anymore' Walking down the steps going over his thoughts on what he thinks all of it was.

'There are alot of things happening. A lot of killing and now my friends are saying the Jedi are to blame.' Ahsoka leaned her head high walking with Jax as he put his hand on the rail.

'I'm the first Jedi you've ever met, aren't I?' Jax was a bit speechless at that question.

Not wanting to say yes as his only knowledge of Jedi was that jackal character but he was nice as he returned confederate prisoners in exchange for information about how to send their refugees to habitable planets not affected by the war. But those were only rumors and might be propaganda for the republic. But answered anyway.

'Well...yes' Ahsoka turned around and showed herself in her Padawan outfit that she wore since she came here. Had a bit of an update as the war advanced and she had to fight on colder and hotter planets.

'Look at me, I'm not so bad, am I?' Jax looked over Ahsoka down and up seeing her outfit and her smile as she showed herself off.

'No, not bad at all' Ahsoka just groaned.

'Well, it seems boys are the same whether they're Republic or Separatist' Jax not wanting his hormones to be all she remembers rushed forwards.

'Wait!' Not stopping Ahsoka but not increasing her speed either. Better than nothing he decided to throw her question right back at her.

'How many Separatists have you met?'

'What?!' thinking this question was a rhetorical one. Jax elaborate further.

'Well, I mean, you think we're all the bad guys, but many of us have you actually met? And droids don't count' Now walking at the garden heading off to the two chairs and table at the end of the path underneath a gazebo covered in leaves and vines for those that want to enjoy the atmosphere. Ahsoka sighed.

'Well, other than military officers, like Grievous and Ventress, none, I guess' realizing that she only meets the separatists that are only geared for war and not the people of the confederacy.

'You and your mother are the first' Jax smiled knowing he has her.

'Well, look at me. Am I so bad?' Ahsoka looked him up and down. Holding her tongue as she had the exact same thought as him. Not bad at all.


Padmé drinks in her cup from her seat as she thinks about everything that happens in the senate. Sensing mre is at play. More specifically Count Dooku.

'I sense Dooku's dirty hand in all of this'

'He's just the leader of the Senate, he's not the leader of the entire universe' Bantomi retorted.

'Even so he is leading your senate into ruin, if the whistleblowers are anything to go by' Kird countered as he sat down looking at the news on his wrist device about pirates carving a little empire of theirs all over the galaxy.

Bantomi frowned, knowing personally that those whistleblowers are good friends of hers and Dooku's kind hearted nature has been changing into those of the cooperation. She sighed.

'We'll never entirely agree on Dooku but we can agree on the need to stop this war, the question is how' Padmé nodded telling her plan about how to make peace.

'That is why it was so urgent that I speak with you, The Republic Senate is holding a critical vote on whether or not to escalate the war effort' She sighed telling the caveat on this plan.

'However, many of the delegates are undecided as to what to do' Bentomi drank from her cup, finding it all very interesting.

'You would find the Separatist Parliament in a similar dilemma' Now finding her way into stopping this war. Padmé asks her the real reason on how to stop this war.

'I am certain if you could convince your representatives to extend an olive branch of peace towards the Republic, there might be enough sympathy in the Senate to finally open negotiations' Bentomi nodded seeing her spirit still shine bright even after all of these years of political chairs.

'I admire your spirit, Padmé, I can at least put the motion on the floor' Kird nodded.

'And I'll make sure that the speakers can keep the motion there' Bentomi smiled and nodded, thanking Kird to be her escort in case things go wrong.

'Thank you two, that's all I ask' Padmé, nodding her head. Bentomi standing up and preparing for a toast.

'To peace then' Padmé standing up as well holding her glass taking a glance seeing Jax and Ahsoka were getting along well. Smiling that there is hope in this galaxy far far away.

'To hope' now clicking their glass together to celebrate their plan to end this war together.


The meetings at the confederacy building weren't so different from The Republic, the people there were yelling about the absurd idea of peace with the Republic. The only thing different between the senate and here was the seats did not move as they seated in three rows from bottom to the top platforms surrounding long tables four panels each side filled with representatives of each political party looking up at a hologram of Count Dooku who sat in a judge like throne looking over at the representatives. Bantoni was the first to step up to the motion of how a peace agreement could be reached.

'How many lives on both sides have to end before we see the futility? Surely there's room in the galaxy for confederate and Republic planets to coexist. I move that we immediately open peace negotiations with chancellor Palpatine on Coruscant' All members stood up either yelling or booing at Miina proposal.

'The corporate alliance will never allow this to happen' An alien senator colored green with stubby horns on her head objected.

'The corporate alliance will never allow this to happen, this is a democracy, and unlike the Republic, corporations do not rule us' The leading member of the independent systems counters. An alien of blue and sharp chins swiping his air to make the point. The members at the stands continue Booing or Yaying. But a Hologram version Count Dooku silenced the commotion.

'Quiet. In accordance with the bylaws of independent systems, a voice vote is required. All in favor of initiating peace negotiations with the Galactic Republic, say aye?' Dooku asked. The people began agreeing to this idea saying Yay.

'All those opposed?' A small group of people Nay to this idea.

'The ayes have it'

Bentomi smiled and looked back to see Padmé, Ahsoka, and Kird dressed in their disguises watching on as their senate meeting ended. Padmé smiled but Kird frowned underneath his masked helmet seeing this senate was more improvised than he thought. Sensing there was more to this than meets the eye.


In Nix Card room, he, Lott Dod, and Gume Saam, were speaking to hologram Dooku. All stressed and rubbing their eyes about the news that the confederacy wanted to end the war.

'This is quite troubling, your own senate voting to end the war' Nix gestured. Dooku leaned back and relaxed in his chair.

'I assure you, gentlemen, your worries are gravely exaggerated' Nix was not convinced.

'How can you be sure this groundswell of peace won't continue? Where is the attack we were promised?' Lott asked.

'We need to fight to feed the machine and our profits!' Saam said. Letting his desire for money cloud his judgment. Dooku huffed at him. Thinking how he managed to get into the conspiracy despite his shameful lack of competence.

'After our attack, the chances of peace will disappear, the banking clan, the trade federation, and the techno union will all get their fair share and then some' Convincing the three greed that their plan will go on without a hitch. Seeing their bank accounts overflowing with money not concerned with a few people dying to line their pockets.


'Well this is goodbye' Padmé said, putting on her disguise with Ahsoka by her side as they waited on the civilian platform on the ship. Bantomi took a step forward.

'I've been disappointed before, and yet I almost feel as if, this time, the tide has turned in the war' Kird nodded and put on the finishing touches of their disguises as they walked back to the ship.

'And I will make sure the tide of the war turns in our favor, hurry along now, you got a bill to sign' Kird assured Padmé who nodded. Saying both Kird and Bantomi saying their goodbyes.

'You really believe the Republic will vote for peace?' Lux asks Ahsoka personal view about the senate.

'I hope so, I wouldn't want to meet you on the battlefield, for your sake' She said disguising her intentions of having a nice time with him.

Despite him being a separatist. Lux saw through it and smiled. Believing this time it will be different. Ahsoka smiled back at her half hearted attempt of disguising and wouldn't mind meeting up again.

'Go you two quickly' Bentomi quickly said.

The two nodded and smiled now walking back to the civilian transport to go back into republic lines. Jax looked back a little sorry to see them go. Or someone but shook it off looking up at Kird wanting to know what he did. Or more specifically someone.

'Jackal, how did my father die exactly?' Kird looked back at him and nodded once.

'From the back, by an assassin' Jax frowned at that. Then steel himself on what he was about to say next.

'Tell us who you think is running this war?'


The garbage droids were doing their supposed duty of cleaning the subway's streets clean from dirt and trash. Finally receiving the message from Grievous to begin their mission. Now hiding in an alleyway opening the transmission with their assigned squads. Seeing Grievous sitting in his command chair.

'Team leaders, come in' Coughing a stress heartache of receiving a report that the Grenadiers have stolen a patrol of ships at the pirate containment zone leaving them allowing territories near that zone be raided. Slamming his fist on the chair and squeezing his arm rest.

'Commence Phase 2' Now his anger boiling over into determination.

'Proceed with high security infiltration.' Team A consisting of four bomb droids chattered in agreement moving through the subways streets heading to the generator sector.

'Team B I want you to erase these jackals from existence' Team B now chattering in agreement head off to the hanger ports finding the fabled ship.

The Kaminoan star crewed and commanded by Jedi Knight Kird and his Grenadiers now rolling through the crowds that were gathering at the hanger bay. Noticing the ship shine bright as it looked like it was a centerpiece of something overlooking the city seeing it parked by one of the outer circular platforms rather than in drydock. Complicating things as they push through the crowd. As that was happening Team A was moving behind the technicians of the generator core of Coruscant waiting for their turn to have their passes out.

'All right, everybody have your passes out' Fox said doing one of the bland duties of maintenance work. He would have been a little peeved but good soldiers follow orders.

Plus he would rather not be near any of the Hexguard at the moment. They were not the finest of soldiers he would kindly write in his reports. Privately he would chew them out. Especially that commander named Markus he thinks. That rat is always scurrying in his duty. Taking out of his thoughts when the trash droids beep at him to check their hologram. Now looking at the hologram more intently he noticed something odd in the document.

'Hmm, generator maintenance, eh?' Taking a look again and seeing that the correct people were signed to where they are shrugged it off.

'Well, everything checks out, good luck down there' Now making way for the trash droids to move along the alleyway making a right turn at the end. Fox looked back mostly to stretch but noticed the droids going the wrong way.

'Whoa! Wait a minute!' Waving his hands to get their attention. The trash droids turned around asking what's the problem.

'Power generators are that way' Pointing to the left of the alleyway. The droids thank him and continue along their way. Fox only scoffed and chuckled, moving back to his position.

'Stupid droids, even worse than those toppers' being a little too amused with himself that he figured out how to name these particular hexguard like the droids he insults.

Meanwhile Team B was having a difficult time getting lost in the crowd as refugees from all walks of life were standing in lines or conversing in the hangar bays. Feeling a little frustrated as they were being hampered by foot traffic.

Finally seeing a clearing they spotted some clones on the hanger bay door as they talked to each other. Finally seeing their way in they moved while being bumped into by a pair of children followed closely behind a man who was trying to keep up with them. Who they are, they don't care as their goal is so close as they approach one last hurdle in their journey.

'Droids, state your purpose and identification' Came the leading clone.

Doing a quick scan noticing he was the second leading clone of the Coruscant guard now transferred to Kirds Grenadiers as master of arms. Commander Fordo. The droids stated they were here for maintenance duty. Showing a hologram of their identification. Fordo looked at the identification and leaned forward. Reading every detail in the hologram. If the Droids have any nerves they would be shaking right now as Team A managed to get through unchallenged but here they were facing some difficulties.

'Maintenance duty by whose authority' Fordo questioned as he continued to lean forward. The droids were silent for one second until coming up with the answer that it came from a CT-2158 maintenance leader of the generator core. A long uncomfortable silence was held between Team B and Fordo until he moved back.

'Authority recognized, take the left, make your way through the hallway, take a right, head forward, down the elevator floor 3 and you can find your way there on your own, do you copy?' The droids chatted about their directions being different from the ship plans. Fordo leaned in.

'I said, do you copy?' Fordo leaning in getting the droids to acknowledge they copy.

Fordo moved out of the way to let the droids through. As the last entered he looked up to one of his best clones who looked back to him without his helmet on.

'Echo, escort the growing party away from the blast zone, but do not cause a panic, you copy?' Echo saluted now bolting to find the rest of his squad seeing Heavy and Fives were handing in rations to the assembling line of refugees while DroidBait and CutUp were playing with Vander and the Kids in a game of soccer they call it. Sensing there is little time to lose he radioed in 99.

'99 is everyone out of the ship' 99 a little startled radioed back.

'Uh almost everyone, me and some others are near the quarters packing up for our new ship' Fordo nodded and pulled out his blaster pistol aiming to buy time. Realizing that 99 has only Five minutes to get out of there.

'99 this is protocol 62, get you and the ones with you to the escape pods now, I'll buy time' 99 was about to protest until he was cut off.

Sensing there is little time he hurried the clones and the children they rescued to grab whatever they had left and run to the escape pods. The kids were confused but complied when they said it was protocol 62. Meaning the ship was about to explode by infiltrators. Now rushing and grabbing the last of their things they ran to the escape pods thankful that it was close by and only needed eight minutes to fully escape to the city below.

Pulling out his other pistol and dashing to the wall looking at the droids they were milling about in the elevator, double checking the map again to see if it was the right way. Tapping into the wall panel next to him the panel opened showing a hidden armory courtesy of the smugglers of Hondo. Now revealing spike weaponry, wrist mounted mining lasers, and a jetpack.

Nodding his head and equipping his load out for ship boarding and escaping he pumped the spike launcher in his hands. Now wielding a two handed spike thrower that looked like a crossbow that had a glow on top and metal sights. He took a peak and saw the droids taking the elevator.

Accessing the ship's log they were heading to the ship generator at floor two rather than three. He cursed that his ploy didn't work. Scanning the ships map quickly realizing he can get the drop on them. More specifically the drop on him. Activating his jet pack he flew through the hallways ready to stall for time.


In The chancellor office, Padmé along with Ahsoka were speaking to the chancellor with his Grand vizor next to him talking about a peace treaty with the Separatist.

'Well, well, well, this is quite a stunning development' Feigning happiness about this turn of events.

'Your excellency, we would be remiss, if not irresponsible, to reject the separatists proposal' Padmé said, hoping her words could reach him.

'Of course' Palpatine said, Swirling his drink. Voicing out how this would benefit the anti-war faction.

'An end to the fighting, would mean there's no need to borrow money for more clones' Padmé continued her explanation.

'I can see why you would want so badly to believe that the separatists desire peace' Palpatine said carefully choosing his words.

'I don't understand?' Padmé asked.

'In the past, whenever we've reached out our hands in peace, they've been slapped away, can we believe that they're ready to sue for peace so easily?' Palpatine plays as the weary chancellor wanting proof of this proposal going through.

'If I might speak with you confidentially, I know that this is sincere, I've been in contact with my old friend Mina Bonteri, And the origin of the proposal is with her' Padmé assured the chancellor. Letting the mask slip just a little as the sith lord has a name but wanting just a little more to personally...thank them for their help.

'Bonteri? How was the dialogue established?'

'Does it matter, chancellor, if the result is an end to the war?' Padmé asked back. Sensing the time to talk is over. It's time for his other plan to go through.

'I see your point, my child, then we shall put the vote to the floor'


At the energy generator crackling the energy along with three other generators as the city above them hangs high in the sky. The workers were milling as they were on break, so the four sweeper droids approached the door to the generator room. until a pair of maintenance workers were chatting and saw 4 sweeper droids coming in in front of them.

'Sweeper droids? We didn't schedule a cleaning' The 4 droids now realizing their cover was blown transformed showing their blaster cannons and legs as they march forward startling the workers standing outside gunning them down and marching forward.

Those who were inside heard the noise pressing the door button seeing a giant droid move in punching a worker across the room. Now shooting down the workers and panels around them but slowly as their turn rate was horrible due to their underslung mounted weaponry. One of the workers quickly tried to run out and pressed the button to escape trying to get help. But instead was face to face with a droid staring down at him.

'What's going on?!' he asked before being shot down.

The droids rushed inside now rerouting the power to the blasters and hip radius then movement proceeded gun down the stunned workers in quick fashion, one lucky survivor hid under the desk and saw the blaster attach underneath, he pulled out the emergency blaster and tried to fired at the droid chest but it simply pushes him in place looking down at the blaster mark and back at the worker. The four fired upon him ending his futile attempt in saving the republic.


Team B was rolling along the hallway checking the way point, seeing the generator room was straight ahead pass through the doors at the end of the hallway. Scanning the area they were past the blast doors that would lock them in if two would close on them. Continuing forward one of the droids lost signal and kept moving forward. The other three turned wanting to know why the fourth one turned off. Until it passed them and noticed a molten line across it's back as it slowed to a stop. Lighting itself on fire from the exposed circuitry. The droids immediately transformed and got into battle positions still marching forth as one moved in front while one looked back. Taking cautious steps scanning the area around them.

Trying to see if they were attacked from behind or in front. Failing to notice two molten blades cutting around the middle one floor as it felt itself lurch then fall to the ground below. Tumbling down on the ground the middle one tried to get up but was held there as it saw a clone standing over it from behind. He let loose a volley of shots hoping to hit him but the shots never came close as he was stuck on his back. But that didn't stop it. Nor did it stop the molten blade piercing through its head as the droid sputtered as the battery life drained faster until it laid still and motionless. The droids on top of the hole leaned and saw the execution of their squad mate seeing the clone look up at them.

Calculating their odds of victory. Then immediately running to the generator room moving their upper torsos locking it in place as they blind fire hoping to hit the clone that would come after them. But seeing nothing nor did they care as they have to accomplish this mission above all. Fordo didn't move, only calculating the blast radius and 99 proximity to the escape pods. Seeing he have done enough he sped out of the ship flying to the escape pod room as he ran out of time on stopping the bomb and now has to escape as he has only two minutes left to escape.


Back at the senate meeting Padmé is speaking about the motion of peace that the separatists have offered. Ending the cost of this war from escalating any further.

'Given that the separatists have put a call for negotiations on the table, the need for additional troops seems ill-timed'

'Which means there is no need to deregulate the banks' Bail simplifying Padmé answer.

'I say we vote that down now' Ono said, showing that there is no need for a debate when the answer is obvious. At the power generator Team A began transforming and connecting together a pair on the floor and another on the panels turning themselves into bombs with the countdown going at one minute and forty seconds left on the timer.

'There is a move to vote on the proposed bill to lift regulations on the banking clan' Mas Amedda speaking the senate's agenda for tonight. Meanwhile Fordo was flying and cutting through the elevators and ship panels to get to the escape pods faster. Calculating the projected damages and sending in orders through the comms to get his grenadiers ready for search and rescue operations.

'Dooku promised he would stop this vote' Lott under his breath. Getting nervous that the vote is going to happen any second now. Like the bombs that were ticking down to one minute on the generators while fifty-two seconds on the Kamino star.

'You may enter your vote' Amedda said, the voting began. As the clocks tick faster and faster. As senators were casting their votes.

Padmé casting her vote was hopeful that this would win out in the end. Back at the ship Fordo was running with all speeds to the escape pods seeing 99 picking up a little girl who was hopping as she held her teddy bear. Now sprinting he grabbed both 99 and the girl throwing themselves into the pod. Landing next to the pilot of the pod who looked down in surprise.

'GUN IT!' He yelled.

'SIR!' the pilot obeyed. Training kicked in as the pod ejected out of the ship falling towards the city. Seeing the explosion from their ship from the entrance hatch window. Then feeling the massive shockwave that came from it.

After a moment of bracing, Fordo looked down seeing 99 and the girl holding each other tight looking up and smiled. Fordo smiled back underneath his helmet but frowned, noticing the girl had only one leg, requisitioning a replacement for her as soon as the next supply drop came in. Now getting to cruising speed Fordo picked up the two and seat belated them in place walking to the pilot who was reading the reports that were coming in. He looked at Fordo and shook his head. Looking off through the window of the pilot seat as the city districts go off one by one.

Team A detonated its charges exploding the generators causing a planetary distinct to shut down from the chain reaction of the rerouting of power. This blackout caused the people of the senate into panic. As the light shut off the emergency red light replaced it. Padmé looked around seeing Ahsoka at the doorway looking around to see if there were any saboteurs but none can be found here.

'We're under attack!' Orn Free Taa yelled.

A Twi'lek that was shamefully corrupt as he was fat, the senators returned to their position waiting for the guards to come. Down at the city levels the people were confused and scared at first but shocked into action as electric outlets exploded causing a group of civilians to fall down. Chaos now reigned the streets as more outlets were exploding from the feedback of power with civilians pushing and shoving each other trying to escape the streets. With gangs and looters taking the opportunity to ransack shops before the police would come. Fordo read the reports through his helmet and activated the comms.

'Domino Squad, Report!' All six clones checked in giving their version of reports. Echo was designated as leader of the group as he was the first to act on Fordo orders.

'The going away party and refugees are safe, I've taken the liberty of sending Heavy, Vander and Clip to the lower levels to clear out the gangs and restore order, ' Fordo nodded as Echo was beginning to think more on his feet.

'Good send Droidbait and CutUp to get our vehicles and troops in the air now, and Fives your with Echo on the middle levels' They all replied yes sir.

'This isn't over, even if the general isn't here, it's our duty to protect Coruscant and its inhabitants' Then clicking on another button to get into a voice call with Fox and the leader of this new hexguard unit that were training the Coruscant guard.

'I trust you can Echo this Echo'

'Did you ju-' Cutting off the comms as he sees some drop ships hovering around him as they shoot cables to hold the pod in place then escorting it to the ground. The pilot nodded and opened the door for Fordo to run through the door and fly off to his command transport to relay orders in the air. Now begins the cleanup ofCoruscant.


'The bombing of the power generator has been confirmed as a separatist attack, they must pay for what they have done' Saam spoke out to the senate as if the answer was obvious.

'But it was the separatist Congress that issued the bill of peace' Padmé tried to counter but Mas Amedda had already prepared a logical explanation beforehand if that question were to come up.

'Obviously a tactic to lower our defenses and launch this attack' Padmé slammed her fist on the senate chair.

'No! that's not true!' Halle Burtoni sensing the opportunity pushed forward the bill that would ensure their place in the galactic republic.

'I move to immediately deregulate the banks' Mot-Not Rab yelling his agreement.

'We need a bank loan to get more troops now!' Another senator joined in on the agreement. Seeing an uproar of support for this loan. Palpatine sighed and looked at the crowd sadly.

'I'm afraid we've been given little choice' Now rehearsing his speech he prepared earlier.

'To ensure the safety of the Republic we must deregulate the banks' Seeing the senate is in full support over this.

Padmé sat down holding her hand over her head. Seeing all of her efforts were in vain. But not the conspirators whose plan was now assured. Padmé and Ahsoka walked through the hallways waiting for the powerline to be fixed, finding Anakin talking with another jedi from the order. Looking to be the koi fish of the mon calamari people. Disbursing leaving Anakin alone with Ahsoka and Padmé looking saddened about the events that happen today.

'I'm returning your Padawan' Anakin nodded.

'I'm sorry your talks with Bonteri failed'

'How did you know?' Ahsoka questioned.

'We have eyes and ears everywhere, Ahsoka' Now angry that they did such a reckless plan. Sure Kird was with them and told him about it but the plan was still too dangerous.

'That was dangerous and careless going to Raxus' pointing his finger at Ahsoka to emphasize the point now looking toPadmé.

'Not to mention illegal, you went too far this time' Now the three are walking off with Ahsoka running by her master's side.

'You would do the same, you do the same all the time' Pointing out that Anakin keeps breaking the law when it suits him. He just sighed in response.

'This was too much' Ahsoka looked to the side, understanding that this was a risk with no gain at the end.

'Maybe so, but i did realize something, the politics of this war are not as black and white as I once thought they were' Anakin and Padmé looked at her then each other understanding that this war became a lot more complicated as time went on.

Padmé breathed out a sigh hoping Kird had better luck on his end then theirs as the anti-war part on this front now has to deal with the aftermath of Coruscant bombing and now the mood of the senate wanting vengeance for this attack. It Will be a long day tomorrow forPadmé. She is sure of it.


On the planet of Raxus in the manor of the senator Bonteri overlooking the forest as the night sky planet. Three watched on as a hologram played out. All seeing Count Dooku referring to someone as master but was scratchy until cutting out. Bonteril rubbed her eyes seeing the man she admired was another thrall of some evil power. Luz looked on curiously then nodded looking up at Kird who placed the communicator in his robe.

'Do you have a name or what he looks like?' Kird just sighed and shook his head.

'Only scraps of code and conspiracy sources, nothing more than that' Lux nodded then breathed out.

'I'm sorry I need some air' Bonteri said, excused herself and walked out to get some air. Lux and Kird looked saddened but nodded.

'He used to be a reputable man' Lux said to Jackal about his mother's reasoning on why she looked up to the man. He nodded.

'He was, now we need to free him from his master's grip'

'But how?' Lux asked but only saw Jackal looking down.

Then looked down at himself. Understanding what he meant. Outside Bonteri was wiping her eyes that the man she looked up to for so long was just a pawn all along. Meaning everything she has fought and believed in was all a lie. Gripping the staircase wall she relaxed, finding another path to peace. Without Dooku. All she needs to do is get the confederacy to appoint a different leader, expose the corruption to the others, and have them vote to reform the confederacy that will work for a better tomorrow. Nodding that she found a plan but is missing steps on how to enact the plan. She breathed out.

As long as there's a drive for peace and hope there is a way now looking up at the night sky. Seeing it shine brightly for the first time in a long time. Until seeing something odd up there. Noticing stars disappearing and reappearing in a line until stopping above her. She moved back a little until seeing figures jumping off and landing next to her. Now seeing them to be droids of some kind. All service manufactured not used for combat but glowed green around their eyes and in their dome helmet.

All moving closer to her with their arms out to catch her. She tried to escape but was quickly caught and held there as she yelled to get off of her. Back in the mansion Kird and Lux heard the commotion and ran outside noticing Bonteri was being held by her arms by two droids. The other two turned around and their green eyed lenses close to a point where they look like they were angry.

Kird pulls out his lightsaber and puts on the mask ready for battle. Seeing another figure jumping off the platform landing, seeing an assassin in a dark hood wearing a poncho covering her upper torso leaving only dark brown leggings be seen wearing a rebreather now standing tall and holding the senator at the neck by blade point. Both stopped in their place seeing they were at a stand still.

The assassin moved their blade around the senator's neck judging the reaction of the two who tensed up. Waiting for a few moments they ordered the two droids to run and they obeyed with their mechanical arms held out. Kird moved Lux back then ran in cutting the two droids hearing their pieces fall behind him. But what he didn't expect to hear was hissing as the droids weren't battle droids.

Those were chem droids carrying deadly gasses to poison any who breathed in. Hearing Lux coughing violently holding in his chest. Kird looked back, seeing Lux surrounded by toxic fog. He looked forward to seeing the droids unleashed their payload poisoning Bonteri who collapsed on the ground holding her breath in but failing as her senses were failing her.

The assassin dangled a blue colored syringe around her hand then threw it to him which he caught with one hand. The assassin then cut the droid's head off as their bodies clatter to the ground. Watching her walk on the floating platform taking a last look seeing Kird stunned trying to figure out if he should grab them both or use the syringe as the planet hospital is far away from here.

'You have two minutes to make your choice, choose wisely' Adding in that Cavat and flying off getting her payment.

Even though she was hired to plant a false bio attack from the republic and make sure Senator Miss Bonteri is the victim of the attack. There is no harm in adding two victims to the tally. Especially if the headline makes record headlines of an entire family killed so cruelly in their own home. She smiled thinking she'll get paid either way and maybe get a bonus to pay for that arm enhancement she was looking into. But sighed as to give at least one of them a cure to spread their story. Can't have a story of there were no survivors.

Back at mansion Kird was picking the two up and dashing to the ship bay putting them on the passenger seats and hitting the coordinates for the autopilot to get them to the nearest hospital. Seeing the time would be thirty minutes he rushed to the two trying to weigh his options on who to choose. Before he felt a hand touch his mask as Bonteri held him there. Staining his blacken mask with her blood.

'My Son, Sav-' She coughed seeing more of her blood on her hands then looked to her side seeing Lux's condition getting worse then stabilizing as she saw him getting injected with the cure.

She smiled seeing Luz open his eyes watching her breath her last breath before joining her husband in the afterlife. Lux tried to shake his mother awake to say anything. But knew in his heart it was too late. Crying on his mother's relaxed form as he lost both of his parents and is now alone in the universe. Till he felt a hand comforting him and he looked back seeing Jackal in his masked form looking down sadly. Jax nodded and wiped away the tears moving to the pilot seat. Pushing in coordinates to the nearest spaceport to drop the Jackal off.

'There will be time to mourn later' Jax said while Jackal tilted his head at that. He was about to ask why until Jax interrupted him.

'You have an assassin to catch' Kird stood still for a moment then nodded seeing the platform escaping overhead heading to the port. This isn't over yet.


At the Senate now their wires are repaired and operational as the senate is now at full power to voice all of the senators yelling at each other wanting blood. Chancellor Palpatine tried to calm the angry senators to a more manageable volume. But secretly he was enjoying himself.

'Members of the senate, please, please...' But his words fell on deaf ears.

'How dare they?!' Edcal Bar Gane yelled out in protest about their attack on the republic home world.

'They attack, and now they want peace?' Paulness added in.

'Chancellor Palpatine, may I remind the senators that the peace proposal was made prior to their assault' Padmé said, trying to protect the Separatist being blamed unjustly for this attack without any evidence.

'That only highlights its insincerity!' Edcal yelled. Then Halle Burtoni moved her seat forward, getting involved in the conversation to push the bill through.

'Chancellor Palpatine, in light of this unprovoked attack on Coruscant and the vulnerabilities it raises, I propose the Republic purchase an additional 5 million clone troopers' She suggested.

'The Republic is already operating in deep debt, how do you propose we pay for these additional troops?' Bail Organa asked.

'My people are drafting an emergency appropriations bill that would raise funds...'

'From the banking clan?' Padmé interrupted Halle's explanation..

'Yes, of course, do you have an alternate means of paying?' She asked. Padmé is still resolute in her stance.

'One alternative might be to stop the war, not escalate it' This caused the members of the senate to yell at her calling her a traitor while other members of the senate began arguing with each other. Padmé ignored their comments and tried to explain it logically.

'Whoever attacked the power grid wants us to continue to fight, it's a calculated attempt to destroy the peace process, not everyone in the confederacy wants this, I know this for a fact'

'You have separatists friends, senator?' Mee Deechi pointed out any potential bias that would interfere withPadmé's judgment.

'Whose side are you on?!' One of them yelled, and their argument grew louder and louder as Onaconda looked around and saw Padmé looking on helplessly.

'Please, the young senator from Naboo makes a point, there is no need to...' As the chancellor tried to calm them down Mas Amedda interrupted him and spoke to him about something. Palpatine holding his head getting his game face on as he coordinated this part with Dooku. Pretending he was tired if any onlookers got suspicious if they glanced his way.

'We have just received a message from our opponent, Count Dooku' Palpatine presses a button showing a hologram of Count Dooku.

'Your Republic forces have carried out a barbaric attack on our people, and among the deaths was the very sponsor of the peace accord, senator Mina Bonteri'

'What? No!' Padmé yelled out. She Had only just talked to her yesterday and now she's dead.

'With her needless death by chemical warfare by your sponsored pirate fleets, I must formally withdraw the proposal for peace offered by our Senate and declare all out war against any citizen of Zaum and Runterra' As the Hologram ended the people began shouting about the war escalating encompassing an entire race of people and a planet.

'We must not show weakness!' One of them said, Padmé just slump into her seat mourning the loss of her friend.

Palpatine caught a glimpse of her despair and smiled. Thinking about the potential benefits that would come from occupying Runeterra securing all of its technology. If that fails. Oh well the republic would protect them in the coming invasions using their weapons of course. All according to plan.


Upon the alleyways of Raxus the assassin was dodging patrols and ships flying overhead doing their daily routine. This was the easy part as they were jumping onto the pipes shuffling along the way as the people walked on the streets going through the day. But they felt someone was following them and the easy escape turned into a long cat and mouse game as they hopped from the wall and into the crowds.

Blending in as the droids and people walked past them. Walking forward and seeing the transport ship on site. Almost to the finish line they walked forward trying to spot a line to enter but noticed the presence being close behind them. They turned around seeing the jackal in the opening with two b1 droids next to him. Looking back the people were being escorted off the port as more b1's came in to surround the assassin. They chuckled.

'And here I thought I was doing so well' Now removing the hood to show her eyes and hair but not their face still wearing the mask. Stepping forward. The Jackal did so as well. Cracking his neck.

'You were, but it falls apart when traces of Zaum gas can be picked up from your clothing' Then pointing up.

'And a spaceship helps too' Now seeing the spaceship land on the platform seeing medical droids rushing in carrying the body while B2 battle droids were escorting the last surviving member to the confrontation. She smiled underneath her rebreather.

'Just have to leave one alive to tell the story' Now staring forward seeing Jackal pulling out a blade activating it with blue light that hummed around the blade edge. She cracked her neck.

'Hextech really?' The Jackal didn't respond, running towards her. She rolled her arm and braced for the cocktail of drugs she put into her system. Feeling the drugs coursing through her veins turning her eyes purple as she Zip across the opening slamming her wrist mounted blade onto the jackals blade who slid back from the impact.

'Try Chemtech!' Kicking off the lock now engaging in a close quarters fight as both slash, parry, dodge, and kick off each other at blinding speeds.

Getting a B1 head cut off in the crossfire as they both duel around the edges. Both cutting and parrying each other as they get close to the droids, cutting them one by one as their duel moves back and forth. Lux looked at the movements and deduced that this assassin wasn't trying to win. But using the duel to escape as he noticed the droids guarding the only ship were his B2 bodyguards and more coming through the sides and B1's coming through the Jackal way but was slammed through like bowling bins as the assassin was kicked back into the droids.

Seeing the way was clear she threw the B1's droids towards him managing to slow down his pursuit. Injecting another dose of shimmer into her veins she made a mad dash aiming to cut the boy down and his B2's in her way to escape. As she sprinted lifting her blade up she slipped on a B1 head forcing her to roll onto the floor but recovered quickly as she spun sideways cutting down the B2's that were charging in to apprehend her but were cut down instead.

Looking behind her she deflected a zb1 battle droid head as she spotted the Jackal pulling a page off of her book to throw droid parts to slow her down. Not having time to analyze how this bounty hunter has a good throwing arm she dodged the incoming parts and moved rushed forward cutting down B2's that were using their bodies to block her escape. Rushing and jumping on their heads and stabbing through.

Her body was slowing down as her shimmer was being used too much in such a short time to pull off those acrobatic feats. Seeing little options she tried to inject a third vial but was interrupted as B2's started shooting at her making her fumble for the vial dropping it to the ground as her fingers trembled from the shimmer dosage. Pushing through the emotional pain she chopped down four of the B2's in quick succession though it used more time then she would have liked as she had to put all her force into those swings cutting them in half now face to face with the boy that survives.

Reeling back her arm to provide a finishing blow she was unprepared to be hit by a stun blast from him running her momentum. Panting heavily Lux held out his blaster towards her ready to knock her out. But with a side sweep Lux fell onto the ground and was helpless as the assassin was about to plunge her arm blade right in Lux's chest but saw her blade arm flying off of her hand in front of her. She held her arm stump grunting in pain as she went on her knees. Looking up she saw the Jackal and Lux standing over her with more droids on the way. She sighed. The battle was over.

'Take this terrorist away' The B1 commander droid said to the B2's who picked the assassin, dragging her on her knees to the nearest security block. Then the droid turned to the Jackal and Jax.

'Good work you two, sorry about your mom' The droid said offering his condolences. Lux breathed out.

'It's alright, at least justice was served today' Watching as the assassin was dragged off to parts unknown.

Little did they know she had one last trick up her sleeves but waited for the right moment to pull off. Letting herself be dragged away as she thumbed an emp grenade hoping to make her escape to the city underground and smuggle her way out of here. But first she needs to make sure the heat dies down a bit and a place far away from here to get out of this dung heap of a planet. Jackel placed his hands on Lux offering his condolences as well. Hiding his Gungan accent with an auto translator built into the helmet to disguise his voice as a rough and tough mercenary hunter.

'You have my sympathies, so my bounty' Playing the bounty hunter. Lux chuckled, handing him one single credit for his troubles. The Jackal took the credit and placed it in his pockets walking away using the force to pick up a vial that was dropped during the battle to be researched later.

'Hey' The droid yelling out to stop the bounty hunter. Jackal looked back half concerned if his cover was blown but shook it off on what the droid said next.

'What's your name? We would like to thank you officially for helping us stop this terrorist' The jackal smiled underneath his helmet.

'I'm just a simple man making his way through the galaxy, but call me Jackal' Now walking off to the streets and disappearing from sight B1 who watched on wondering who he really was underneath his helmet. But Lux smiled. Knowing the bounty hunter's true name was Kird of the Grenadiers.

'Guess Jedi aren't so bad after all' He said underneath his breath and walked back to his ship. Flying to his relatives to rest up.

Leaving behind the B1 to report and clean the mess left behind from the duel. Going to be a long day for them all. As Kird walked to his safe house he pressed the wristcom in his arm guard seeing his ship fly overhead and walked towards his N-1 as it landed. Seeing his droid friend, DD-3, popping out approaching him. Kird waves towards him. Then noticing the droid was going much faster than usual but thinking nothing of it.

'DD-3, how's it goen?' Kird asked, his accent back because he took off his mask. DD-3 made panicked beeping noises telling him there was an urgent message for him.

'A message? Show mesa' The droid show Kird received an encrypted transmission by Fordo codenamed The Right Hand which said that Coruscant and his ship the Kaminoan star was under attack by separatists infiltrators and needed to head home asap. Fordo furrowed and picked up DD-3 with the force and plopped him into his pilot seat along with Fordo pushing the buttons to make or light speed with all haste.

'Dd-3 send a message to Padme, tell her mesa'm com and her friend Bantomi was assassinated by count dooku'

Now gunning it through the blockade not bothering to answer hails from the separatist ships as he was long gone by then. Then feeling the weight of his failure weigh on him and breathe.

'Disa isn't over, not by a longo shot'


Pame was walking down the hallway, both angry and saddened by the events today. Even frustrated that an independent planet and its people have been declared war on. Even worse, the green light was given for them to act with impunity. She looked at the clipboard overseeing the news about Runterra gearing to war with the Zaum making a temporary alliance to protect their home world before handing it back to her assistant.

'Thank you, Teckla'

'Yes, my lady' was her reply. Padme held her head.

'I can't believe it, I just can't believe the Republic would target Senator Bonteri, she was the only one willing to stand up for peace' not believing Dooku word and feeling frustrated that Kird might have been killed in that mission when it was supposed to be a simple escort mission.

'You shouldn't believe it, The Republic spies and Kird are reporting that senator Bonteri was murdered by Dooku's hired assassin, that message to the senate was a ploy to disguise his true actions' Organa explained as the four entered her office. He looked down realizing they were played all along.

'I am so sorry, Padme' Onaconda offering his condolences.

'If your friend met with a violent end because of her politics, let's make sure her courageous effort wasn't in vain' Organa said, trying to light the fires again to fight to the bitter end.

'What can we do?' Padme said not seeing a way to figure this out.

'For one, defeat this bill' Organa answered as the first step to peace.

'Can we really win this war with the troops that we have?' Padme said, understanding that the republic is already stretched thin at the front.

'Let's hope we don't have to, I'll start lining up support, but I'll need ammunition' Orgona said, laying down the game plan to defeat this bill.

'We can't afford ammunition, remember?' Ono jokingly said but no one got it. Shaking their heads in disapprovement.

'I joke' was his defeated reply of lighting the mood.

'Go to the banking clan and see how much interest they're going to charge for the loan, the more I know about what the exact cost of this bill will be, the better I can make my case to defeat it' Organa giving his suggestion to Padme then leaving the room.

'Right, let's go, uncle, you know these banking clan people, plus, you owe me for telling such a bad joke' Padme said. Ono let out a deep sigh.

'Tee ta poo shan aka' He said under breath.


At the streets of Coruscant near the main elevator that takes any team to the upper and lower levels of the planet in but a minute. Hexguards, Clone troopers, and an assortment of volunteers were all moving supplies and transports into the supply elevators to get them to their proper places and taking the materials and people out of the elevator to the medical area. As the troops were working around the clock.

The leaders of the operation and their aids were gathered at the mobile command center where crates and video screens were set up to make a version of walls with computer screens. At the gathering Fordo was up at the board pointing supply points and logistics going through the main hub levels. At the seats were Fox and his coruscant guard, Sheriff Grayson and her hextech guards, and Vander with his volunteers watching on in silence. As Fordo finished his orders he turned to the group gathered before him.

'Any questions?' A hand was raised.

'You what's your name and question' The hextech guard removed his rebreather and looked at Fordo gesturing with his hand holding his rebreather to Fox.

'Markus and the question, captain, why the Clone Fox here?' Fox gave Markus the death stare underneath his helmet. He looked back.

'Didn't he allow the infiltrators to slip by when he was on duty, even helping them' Fox stood up from his seat and pointed his finger at this topper.

'I did my Duty, trooper, if you were there you would let them through too' Markus scoffed at his accusation.

'Just like an undersider' looking at Vander who lit his brazer not reacting.

Markus looks back at Fox and gets punched in the face, sending him down on the ground. Both the Coruscant guard and the Hexguard began fighting with each other, enacting on the bad blood that was gathering between the two sides as they were slowly being replaced by these poor excuses for soldiers.

The Hexguard fighting them showing their superiority against these things grown in a lab were not match for their might. Grayson tried to stop the fighting but to no avail as the troops were using the chairs as improvised weapons smacking each other with it. Vander breathed in his pipe.

'Like I never even left' He commented.

As the fight was about to get messy they all stop when Fordo shot in the air getting all eyes on him as Fordo was holding his blaster pistol in the air and spinning it back in the holster.

'Look at yourselves, you call yourself the elite of the elite, the pride of your homeworlds, yet here you are fighting like PIRATES' Fordo yelled at the troops who shook in place placing their chairs down.

'We must not be blinded by our own need for POWER' Yelling at Fordo and Markus who was strangling each other but stopped when Frodo was looking at them and looked up.

'We all swore an oath to the Republic to DEMOCRACY' Yelling in the general direction of the troops and guards who stood at attention.

'The lives of the people here and across the galaxy are counting on us to save them from this crisis' Gesturing to the wounded civilians that were being wheeled through the opening of the walls with Hex Guards and clone troopers working together to get these people to the medical tent.

'So you either fail alone or work together' Now seeing the troops to stand at attention.

'Make the right ONE' The troops saluted and went to work now with patriotic fervor guiding their way.

Leaving the Fox and Markus behind who grumbled and followed their troops for crisis control. While Grayson collapsed on her chair rubbing her head that the training exercise has not been the most successful of team bonding. Vander chuckled.

'Could have used you at Pittsover, maybe things would have been different' Fordo just stood up.

'That was then, this is now, you both got your orders' Then giving both a nod.

'See it through please' Vander chuckled and got his group to head off with Grayson who was rubbing her head. Vander slowed down and turned his head.

'The offer still stands Fordo' He chuckled.

'When the war is over, I'll help bash some senators' heads with ya' Vander smiled and lifted his pipe.

'I'll have a drink with your name on it when it comes' Walking off with his volunteers to do their work.

Leaving Domino squad and Fordo alone. Fordo smiled underneath his helmet remembering what he was fighting for. But frowned a little when he realized the confederacy is going to invade Runeterra soon. Swearing an oath in his mind that the confederacy would not step one foot on the soil of the planet if he can help it. His musings were interrupted when echo yelled out his name.

'Captain, I've just got the report that thugs are assaulting senators from the upper levels' Fordo turned around while Echo put the reports on screen all looking to see if there is a pattern in their attacks.

'What do you guys think of it?' Droidbait asked.

'More assassinations I think?' Clip answered back but Fordo turned to him correcting his thoughts.

'A beating, Clip' Then turning back to the report as the screen described in detail about the senator they were attacking. Someone from the Anti Bill party.

'A message to not vote against the bill' Turning on his heels and Domino Squad stood at attention.

'Troopers, we are dealing with a Separatist plot to keep the war going' Now pacing back and forth to debrief them on their mission.

'As of now we can't find the mastermind for this operation, but we can deal with his thugs and work ourselves from there' Now stopping in place to address the squad.

'Fives, Echo, you two are in charge of interrogating the senators on any involvement in the bill, make sure you target the banking clans first, I have a feeling they are lining their pockets with confederate blood money' Fives and echo saluted and went off to do their duty.

'Droidbait, Cutup, investigate the criminal network, see if there is any talks about the thugs bragging their payment or beatings from an unknown benefactor' Droid bait and Cut Up saluted.

'Yes sir' They both said running off to get their spy gear and bounty hunter equipment.

'Heavy, Clip, protect Senator Amidala, she is the leading this anti-war bill and they are in the list of being eliminated from the game'

'Understood sir' Clip said running off but stopped when he noticed he was the only one running off as Heavy stayed still with Frodo looking at him. After a moment of silence Heavy began his request.

'Permission to use the butcher sir' Clip tilted his head wondering what this butcher supposed to mean. Sure it's his bounty hunter name but why is he using it during an escort mission. Fordo looked at him, measuring him up and down.

'Can you control it?' Heavy nodded.

'I said, Can you control it?' Heavy clicked his heels.

'Sir, Yes I can Sir' Was Heavy affirmative reply. Fordo waited for a moment then nodded his head.

'Permission granted' Heavy saluted and walked off getting ready to put on his uniform along with some upgrades as clip stood by watching in confusion.

'Take care of them Clip' Clip snapped back and saluted.

'I will make sure Senator Amidala is safe sir' Then rushing off following next to Heavy looking at him like he was in a trance of some sort.

Fordo looked on until they disappeared in the crowd looking back to the screen reading the reports of the beatings and pulling up mental health notes from the doctors about certain blips in the trooper's head. At first they said it was nothing but a scientist from Runeterra noticed these blips were coming from the part of the brain that controls their motor and cognitive functions. Putting it on screen seeing the medical reports coming into dead leads but comparing notes from before and after scanning noticing their behavior signs were shifting ever so slowly. Furrowing his brow.

'I wasn't referring to the senator' He said underneath his breath looking at the reports again then putting it aside.

He has a crisis management team and volunteers to work on. Investigating the blips would happen on his own time. Hopefully Spy and Torch managed to find any information regarding the blips using their access codes to look more into their origins. If there really was an origin besides Kaminoo and the bounty hunter Jango fett. But having a feeling that this is just one step in a long web of deceit and tricks Count Dooku had a hand orchestrating or maybe his unknown benefactor commanding him from the shadows. Whatever it is. He will not be found wanting.


In the office of Nix Card, Padmé and Ona were talking to the banking clan member about the money for more clone troopers. Nix card was thinking about the price tag he needed to be set for life. And then some.

'We will lend to the Republic at our standard interest rate of...' The member was silent for a moment drinking in the moment before landing a number.

'25%' He smiled, which shocked both Padmé and Ona.

'What?!' that they have to pay the loan that costs in the trillions.

'25%, that's outright theft!' Ono said, slamming his hand on the table.

'Your previous arrangement with the Republic was 10%' Padmé tried to reason with him.

'Please, please, that was before deregulation, the same rules don't apply, my dear, the separatists don't seem to mind a rate hike, in fact, they just secured a loan to fund an additional 3 million battle droids' adding in the condition that would force the republic to pay the price hike. Either way he'll walk away rich.

'They would wipe us out' Ona said, disheartening that number alone would take over Runeterra when the campaign season began in the confederate war of vengeance.

'You would let Dooku do that? You live on Coruscant too' Trying the if they invade they invade all of us. But Nix had already prepared a countermeasure to make sure that he'll get away scott free.

'We have no stake in this war, senator, you know that, war is...Distasteful to all of us' Showing his hands were tied. Padmé and Ona looked at each other not knowing what to do.


'25% interest' Organa said in his office looking over the projected revenue that would be needed to pay off the bank. Even reading about the projected programs and losses that would be cut in order to pay for all of it.

'That's a lot of credits' He understated. Padmé was looking out of the window at the city shining bright as night approaches seeing the reconstructing efforts were going smoothly but sighed.

'The interest alone could completely bankrupt the Republic' Now moving around the desk and walking off thinking about the damages this would entail.

'As it is, social services have suffered because of this war, education, infrastructure, healthcare' she sighed again.

'If we go deeper into debt, the basic needs of our people will evaporate'

'This is good' Orgona said.

'It is?' Padmé questioned.

'Clearly, taking out a loan on such obscene terms would essentially destroy the Republic regardless of the outcome of the war' Laying out the game plan.

'We only need to sway another needful of senators, as long as they don't buckle to the threats'

'What threats?' Padmé said crestfallen that terror tactics are being used on the senators.

'Some members have received messages warning them not to vote against the bill' Organa explained and looked out of the window then back toPadmé.

'Considering what's happened to your friend Bonteri, The gang of Zaun, and the call for arms on the skies of Runeterra.' Looking down on himself.

'They're frightened'


In the streets of Coruscant many spiral buildings and walkways were located as a place for shopping and travel along the middle level. An automated voice called out from the speakers announcing mandatory blackout to save power in order to build up reserves until the repairs are done.

'All citizens report to the designated safe area' Ona compiled walking through the people around him as they were heading off in random directions.

Noticing that there weren't a lot of people around and passing an alien wearing big armor for his size with an elongated helmet, his armed wrist gauntlets and blue oversuit. Ignoring the bounty hunter he walked off trying to head home. Not noticing the bounty hunter was waiting for his friend, another bounty hunter but snake looking to be a fish with elongated fins around his ears and head. Wearing an eye patch. And army overalls and pants carrying his pack with him. Running from behind. As he got close it was time and jumped on Ono as they pulled him down onto the ground kicking and punching him there.

Ona could only scream no and protect his face as the beating continued as he heard their screams getting louder and louder until it suddenly stopped. He looked up seeing both of the bounty hunters gasping for breath as they checked themselves. The fish looking bounty hunter breathed in relief as he found no scratches on him and looked up seeing his friend was not so lucky seeing four slash wounds across his plate. The elongated head bounty hunter grunted but put his thumb up to tell his partner that he was good.

Both tried to get up but stopped in their tracks as they saw the most terrifying thing glowing in the darkness and ran for their lives. Ona breathed heavily from the attack seeing the two thugs running off and looked to see what they were looking at but only catching a glimpse of his rescuer as he saw large turbine engines exploding in blue light as the figure disappeared into the night sky. Seeing only flickers of energy behind. He was so preoccupied on trying to figure out what just happened until he was shaken out of his shock by hextech guards who came by as they saw the figure flee.

'Senator Ono are you alright?' One of the Hexguard asked Ono who'd stammer out a response.

'I'm alright, I think I was just rescued by someone?'

The Hexguard nodded and carried the senator onto his shoulders running forth to the hospital while the two guards tried to search for the assailant and the rescuer but finding no one in sight and instead escorted their teammate in carrying the senator to the hospital. Never knowing they were being watched by someone. Drumming his ankle plate with metallic claws watching on. Then flying off to the night seeing if the other senators like him were in trouble. Tonight was a good night to hunt.


Padmé was talking to other members, trying to convince them to vote no on this bill.

'Can't you all see this bill is short-sighted? Millions of clones won't win this war, the only winner will be the banking clan, they want to pass this bill so badly, they're using scare tactics to sway votes' she then points towards senator Mot-Not Rab who had a case around his arm.

'I am not intimidated, senator Amidala' Mot-Not Rab said.

'Then why are you voting for additional troops?' She questioned.

'I happen to believe more clones are precisely what we need, and my caucus agrees with me, I'm sorry' As he left, so did the other members.

Holding their sides and casts as they too were jumped by thugs. As Padmé and Organa looked off trying to see if they could sway anymore senators they saw Ona came also wearing a casing around his arm with his aid walking by him.

'Uncle Ono, what happened?' Padmé asked worriedly.

'Two thugs jumped me, but I am fine' Trying to assure Padmé that his injuries were a minor scratch. Not mentioning his savior as there wasn't any information about him besides a footnote in his article of getting attacked.

'This is outrageous, something has to be done' Padmé saint in fury that these terror tactics are affecting her family as well. Ono just moved the bandages around his cast.

'Padmé, this will not change my mind, no matter what, I will vote against the bill'


At the under levels of Coruscant the band was beating their music on the drums at a seedy underground bar with Twi'lek dancers entertaining the guests and a musician player to set the mood. A perfect place for two bounty hunters to hide and heal their wounds. Having a few drinks as they were having a video call with Count Dooku being filled in on the effectiveness of his terror tactic.

'I see Senator Amidala hasn't given up her crusade' The fish head bounty hunter named Robonino leaned back.

'She doesn't have the votes, my lord' He tried to assure him. His bounty hunter friend named Chata hyoki laughed as he took a drink.

'We've taken care of 20 senators' Laughing again while taking a drink showing dooku his four slash marks across his chest. Dooku sneered.

'Yes and it took thirty of you to get that result' Dooku said.

Causing both the Bounty hunters to choke on their drinks as thirty of them were either arrested or killed doing an easy job. As they coughed Dooku breathed out of his nose remembering how much of a thorn these Grenadiers or jackals they sometimes call themselves really were.

'It may be time to send her a message as well' Robino finished his coughing fit and swallowed another drink to clear his throat.

'You want us to have a talk with her?'

'No' Dooku said annoyed at these bounty hunters' lack of competence. He would have hired the Zaun assassin but she's off grid for the moment.

'I think something special is called for in Senator Amidala's case'

'We're all ears, boss' Robino said, flipping his fish ear to emphasize the point.

'Take her out of the game' Cutting off communications seeing the bounty hunters clink their drinks ready to do another easy job for them.

Laughing that Robino fell from his seat. A joke lost on two individuals listening in, having their own drinks and talking to the bartender. Listening in on rumors of a pirate gang and bounty hunters looking to make a quick buck. Information that was taken into consideration as they relayed it to certain individuals looking in on the matter at hand. An interesting rumor to be investigated by the Jackals right handed dagger.


Padmé was talking to Organa about their votes on the bill.

'As long as senators are being threatened and attacked, I'm afraid we don't stand a chance' Padmé said worriedly.

'Intimidation won't work on everyone, senator Farr is proof of that' Organa pointed out that despite senators being beaten there will be those that would still vote against the bill.

'Even so, we're still at least six votes short of a majority, and you saw how effective my plea was today' Padmé being saddened that her idealism was having less of a great effect today.

'Some minds can't be altered no matter what they hear' Orgona trying to sooth her soul. But Padme had an idea about people hearing the message. More specifically who.

'From my experience, it depends a great deal on who's sending the message' Organa raised an eyebrow.

'Bail, you're the finest public speaker I know, if anyone can convince the senate that voting for this bill will bankrupt the Republic both financially and spiritually, it's you' Organa thought for a moment.

'It will be dangerous'

'I urge you to speak before the full senate' Padmé pleaded. Orgona already decided he will help but the question is how will he deliver this speech. He needed time.

'I'll need some time to prepare' Padmé let out a sigh of relief.

'Good' Padmé walked away to the door.

'In the meantime, I'll pay another visit to those still undecided' She said leaving the office.

As Orgona was thinking about what to say in his speech. The door opens again revealing two men with identical faces walking in wearing business suits.

'May I help you?' He questioned.

The men pulled out their badges showing Orgona they were secret service of the Coruscant guard. But Orgona chuckled seeing the insignia was of his design. A red starship over a white background. Orgona sat on the desk as the identical men smiled.

'So how may I help you today'


In the streets of the undecided senator house known as Christo. Padmé and her uncle Ona were getting off their ride as Padmé designated driver and Ono parked on the driveway of the buildings of Coruscant.

'I'll be parked just over there, my lady' The driver said as he can't park on the driveway because this is considered private property.

'Thank you this way Uncle Ono' Now walking inside of the senator's house seeing an aquarium of alien-like jellyfish swimming around as the senator.

An aquatic species himself, that has long tentacles and fins around his head colored in pink. Wearing his purple and gold cuffs as his regular outfit. Hearing the plea of the two senators he looked on unamused about their ideology stand points at this moment.

'What does ideology matter at this point?' Now looking back to the two senators.

'Is it worth being beaten to death?' Now walking to Ona to demonstrate the point.

'Look at what they did to you' Ono just held his injured arm.

'These wounds will heal. But what about the millions who are dying in this war?' Christo looked on unimpressed.

'Who, the clones? We created them for just that purpose.' Walking off to the other side of the room.

'They are people' Padmé aghast that the clones were considered such non entities. Despite them living and breathing the same air as them. Christo just waved her off.

'The people I care about are my constituents, the ones who put me in office' Pouring himself a drink thinking this is going to be a long night ahead of them. Ono rubbed his head then argued back at how callus this senator was from the beginning.

'And when was the last time you ever spoke to your people?' Ona just hmpth at that. Realizing the irony in that statement.

'Probably the same time you did' Now gesturing toPadmé.

'Or you, Senator' Both were silent in that statement. He was right. They haven't been talking to them in a very long time.

'Senator Christo please, is there anything we can do to get you to change your mind?'Padmé said seeing she was out of options. Christor swirled his drink.

He wasn't a man with any ambitions really. Just someone who goes with the flow. But there was someone who did change his mind. A man he greatly respected. So he feigned ignorance and questioned the two.

'Where does Senator Organa stand on all this?' Then looking back noticing he was missing despite those three always seen together.

'Why isn't he here?'

'Senator Organa is preparing to speak before the full Senate' Padmé explained.

'Senator Organa?' rubbing his tentacles together that he would take such a dangerous move. Then furrowed still undecided but will hear what he will have to say.

'I'll listen to what he has to say'Padmé, not getting the implication, questioned him again.

'So you are open to voting with us?' Christo turned around reaffirming his point. Making sure there was no third party eavesdropping on them.

'I said I'll listen to what he has to say'


Upon the streets of Coruscant city a driver was watching the new episode of this Runeterra entertainment channel. Finding it to be funny. Especially that scout furball of all things. Until he heard a speeder revving up. He turned to look, seeing a fish looking like a hooligan was revving his speeder for a drag race.

Then speeding off disappearing from sight. He would have gone back to his seat but his world went black as he was dragged by an unknown assailant who screamed and silenced him and his life forever. At the doors of the senator Chrito house Padmé and Ono were walking off disappointed but not too much as it's all up to Organa now.

'Well, it's better than a no' Padmé said, trying to add a bright side into this.

'I'm sure when Christo and the others hear what Bail has to say, they will vote our way' Ono looking around noticing the streets were less crowded and the thugs usually prowl at this time of night.

'Can I give you a ride?' Offering his help.

'My driver's only a block away' Padmé said.

'I think I'd like to walk' wanting to cool off for a bit seeing that her actions haven't been reaching any satisfying conclusion.

'ButPadmé' Ono insisted. But Padmé assured him.

'Don't worry, Uncle Ono, I can take care of myself' now walking back.

'Plus, I can use the fresh air'

'Just' Ono said, holding his hand out but relented. He knows he can't convince her no matter how hard he tries so has to put his faith in this mysterious savior that has been cropping up on the articles.

'Be careful' Now parting ways as Ona drives off through the night as Padmé walks on by seeing some creatures fighting with each other on top of a barrel.

Now walking off and hearing a set of footsteps approaching behind her. But most importantly. Seeing a shadow following close behind. Acting quickly on her feet she dashed to the alleyway next to her holding her concealed pistol out waiting for the shadows to come closer. As the shadows disappeared it was two couples walking off in the street as they chatted and laughed about seeing their new speeder bike.

Padmé breathed out a sigh of relief that it wasn't the thugs that been attacking Odo holding her head from all the stress she was gathering until a the bounty hunter Chata hyoki roared in front of her startling her just long enough for his friend Robino to get the jump on her. Holding onto her neck as she slammed his form onto the walls next to her. Seeing it was Chata chance he pulled out a knife ready to end this senator but before he could take a second step a loud thud slammed behind them shaking them just for a tiny bit.

They all stopped and looked up seeing a figure blending in the moonlight for a second until it illuminated itself showing two crimson eyes lighting up in the dark showing a skull of a Mythosaur for his helmet and his chest showing an insignia of bloody slash marks and a skull of a Zygarrian skull with ears being crushed by the marks.

Chata screamed a cry stabbing this creature's chest but found his knife shattered on impact. He looked into his knife terrified that his knife would break like that. A moment he shouldn't have taken as he was grabbed by the neck and held high. Chata struggled on the grip and in desperation pointed his wrist blasters unloading on the creature holding him. Screaming all the while. As dust was being kicked up Padmé threw Robino to the ground as he was stuck staring at his friend being choked to death.

As he lifted himself off the ground he tried to go for Padmé but they all stopped when Chata screamed with electricity flying everywhere. They both covered their eyes for a moment until they put their arms away revealing Chata shaking for a moment before being slammed into the wall as he slid to the ground limp his armor being smashed and cooked from the thing standing before them as he activated his claws showing large gauntlets of electric claws and large hover boots showing that the blaster bolts did nothing to his form.

All Robino could do was cry out until he was found lifted up from the ground and slammed into the wall for a moment. He struggled trying to loosen the grip of the gauntlet but to no avail seeing electric claws getting closer and closer, almost scratching his face.

Robino clawed his way out or slipped past the grip but all he did was scream as electricity coursed through his entire form then going limp being thrown to the side as he laid jittering there. Padmé watched as the figure stood there for a moment before turning his form around looking at her with his crimson eyes. Padmé pulled out her blaster and stepped back.

'Who are you?!' Padmé yelled out.

The figure tilted its head until it went rigid and stood up looking at her deactivating its red glare and pulled off his helmet revealing a clone face who smiled.

'Heavy of the Grenadiers, Senator Amildala' Padmé breathed out a sigh of relief and held her chest feeling a wave of fear was washed over her and replaced with relief. She wiped the sweat out of her brow.

'Heavy, ha, you scared me' Heavy looked back and frowned a little then went back toPadmé .

'Sorry about that I was undercover' Now hearing another footstep showing it was Clip holding a D-15 blaster rifle as he moved around the bodies.

'Geeze Heavy I thought you were going to disable them not fry them' Heavy just crossed his arms.

'They're alive, just knocked out' Looking back a little saddened that they were only knocked out but shook it off as that type of thinking was too much.

'I appreciate the help, thank you' Padmé nodded while Heavy returned in kind. Clip looked back at the alleyway and saw two Hexguards standing there. Clip waved at them.

'Hey we apprehended these bounty hunters for you, your welcome' Clip smiled underneath his helmet but the two hexguards didn't move just stare ahead of them.

Heavy immediately noticed what was wrong with them and moved in front ofPadmé, shielding her with his body while putting his helmet on. Clip looked for a second before aiming his rifle and dropping the two hex guards in their tracks. But as they hit the ground they got up and ran ahead running on the walls and jumping on Clip and Heavy.

Padmé was hit back from the force and fell to the ground watching Clip struggling with a guard who was struggling for the gun as purple light and goo was leaking out of his mask. Seeing another guard being slammed into the ground in front of her being stabbed in front of her stopping it's movements. Padmé got up seeing Heavy cut down another guard and helped Clip up. Hearing roars and war cries coming from all around them.

'Zaun and their Chem dogs' Heavy said. Now turning around.

'Senator you need to move, Clip will escort you' Clip ran to the side of her watching the other alleyway seeing more bounty hunters holding chains ready to release their addicts onto the streets. Taking aim trying to see if he can take out their leader before the chase é almost out of breath yelled back.

'What about you?!' Heavy just walked to the alleyway revealing his jets and illuminated power core on his back shining a blue humm around it as he stepped in the clearing see Bounty Hunters and the remnants of all of the pirate gangs he personally dismantled and taken a piece off of their leaders roared and fired their guns in the air shining spotlights at Heavy who cracked his Neck and activating his claws.

'I'll make my own way out' Booming ahead as the butcher went to work cutting and slicing the bounty hunters and chemdogs as they charged in trying to shoot and cut him down.

Clip seeing this was his cue holstered, his weapon grabbed Padmé by the arm and ran trying to head to the speeder with the passenger seat he parked just ahead. Hearing Gunfire and explosions happening from behind, Padmé looked back and forth, noticing some thugs were making the bend and spotted them shooting their blaster pistols at them. Both duck and run ahead making a mad dash to the speeder then letting go and sliding on his heel shooting his blaster pistol taking down two of the bounty hunters but not the four others as they ran in charge.

Padmé got onto the driver seat and revved it up as Clip jumped into the passenger seat. Now gunning it as they speed off into the Coruscant sky moving through the opening between the buildings. As they drove they had a moment to relax and catch their breaths. UntilPadmé realized that they forgot someone during that confrontation.

'My driver where-?' Clip moved his position now sitting up on the passenger car and sighed.

'With the force' Padmé looked disappointed that this war took another innocent life.


InsidePadmé's office while Teckla was tending towards her wounds Clip stood guard near the door. Checking his comms to see if Heavy was still alive. As Teckla placed the ointment,Padmé felt the sting.

'Ouch' She said.

'Don't you think you should report this to the Jedi council?' Teckla suggested.

'There's nothing they can do, I know who did it, they were bounty hunters, paid to stop me from voting against the troop increase' Padmé stood up and walked towards a balcony while she walked she let out a sigh. Watching over the city below turning upside down. Seeing a faint flicker of light and smoke coming from below.

'What has happened to democracy? And why doesn't anyone seem to care?' Feeling lost, she feels like there was only a precious few that would fight for what's right.

'Well You do, forgive me, my lady, um, you're not like most politicians' That's when Clip walked in.

'She right Senator, you care about the people, and for us clones' Padmé looked off into the city seeing the fire fade.

'If only that were enough, Teckla' Teckla spoke out trying to counter her dower mindset.

'Well, you actually talk to the people, people like me' Padmé looked back realizing she might have an idea on how to fight again but most importantly seeing her assistant have something weighing on her mind. Teckla looked off noticing she might have said the wrong thing and tried to excuse herself.

'Good night, my lady' She said, bowing her head and was about to leave with Clip about to stand in the way but that's when Padmé stopped her.

'Teckla!' She yelled out getting both of their attention as Padmé walked forward.

'Tell me, how is your family?' She asked.

'They are fine' Teckla trying to remember how her family was doing.

'How is the war affecting them?' She pressed further.

'Well, it hasn't been easy, and it's only getting worse' Techla explained. Padmé pressed further.

'How? Please, tell me, tell me how it's getting worse' Now walking to the seats for her to tell her story.

'Room for one more' A voice coming from the balcony said as they all looked back seeing Hevy being banged up but alive as he rolled himself off the balcony and landed a hard thud to his knees. Clip rushed forward and with great effort heaved him up.

'Better get some drinks Senator, he got a lot of stories to tell' Heavy chuckled pulling off the helmet as they limped to the couches as Teckla pulled out her medical kit treating his wounds. Padmé smiled and nodded, getting some drinks and a notebook to write down the stories the two would tell about.


In the parking lot of the Coruscant palace far from here. Senator Bail Organa was checking and rechecking his speech and tips he received from his two spies. Opening the garage doors as he walked to his hover car. Activating it and seeing a speeder fly in followed up by another speeder as they circled around him. Seeing this was the tip. He activated his emergency beacon signaling his spies to begin the operation. As the speeder stopped signaling the fish face bounty hunter a little fried from before revving up his engine while his other bounty hunter held the senator at wrist point a lot more worse for ware.

'You're not getting saved by that butcher this time, Senator' The Bounty hunter said until he was shot at the side knocking him back showing Fives And Echo running into the scene wearing their business suits running and gunning to the two bounty hunters who were stove off and fired back running to cover.

As the two ran more reinforcements showed up as hex guards and a patrol car rolling into the scene as Bail Organa tried to run to the car but tripped when blaster bolts came deadly close to his feet. Seeing The senator was in trouble the two clones pushed up to help seeing more of the bounty hunters hook the police car and dragged it to the parking level crushing cars there.

They fired some shots but quickly rolled as the bounty hunter on the ground was firing with both blasters keeping the guards and the clones back but was eating some slugs in return while the other two guards were aiming at the speeder overhead hitting one of the drivers causing him to crash into the wall in front of him.

The fish face bounty hunter tried to draw their fire away but drove towards another police car that was making his way in crashing and flying overhead and slamming his already weakened form to the ground knocking him out instantly. The Armored bounty hunter screamed and fired both of his blasters all over the place, getting hit by slugs and bolts as he ran from cover to cover.

'THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE EASY!' He yelled under a dim of fire seeing Bail Organa jumped into his car driving away and watched as his car was hooked to the side causing the car to swerve and hit a wall.

He would have laughed until he got hit in the head by a Baton ending his rampage there as the other guards were handcuffing him. The clones were running and gunning trying to hit that last gang member but speed off managing to get his ten thousand credits all alone. Enough for a fancy hook and upgrades to his ride. The clones grunted and moved to where Bail Organa slumped in his seat.

'MEDIC!' Fives yelled out trying to get anyone that knows any medical knowledge while Echo was putting in some minor Bacta patches on the senator.


Ono search for Padmé the people walking around to get to the senator meeting until he saw her wearing a new outfit who was being escorted by Clip and Hevy, he rushed over to her.

'Oh! Padmé!' He yelled worriedly.

'What is it?' Padmé asked.

'You need to see something' The four of them rush into her office. Ono turns on a hologram of Organa getting his wounds treated as two men in suits went to work patching up his wounds.

'Bail! What happened?!' Padmé questioned and worried about his condition.

'Padmé...' He said struggling to keep himself conscious.

'Senator, you need to lie down' The medic said.

'My speech, my speech... The senate is expecting me' He tried to remember but his memory is fading.

'Is there any way?' She asked the medic.

'I'm sorry, he's in no condition to Even stand, we need to take him to the hospital' The medic stated.

'Of course. Take him at once' Ono said but before the hologram ended Organa with great effort leaned his head forward and looked towardsPadmé.

'The speech...Padmé, you must address the senate, only you can do this' With those last words he slipped into unconsciousness as the men in black carried him to the stretcher. Then the hologram ended and all four looked at each other knowing yet not knowing what to do. At the Senate meeting Halle Burtoni moved her chair.


'Perhaps we should get the vote started'

'I told senator Organa I'd allow him to speak' Mas Amedda said.

'We have waited long enough' Orn Free Taa said tired of just standing around.

'I agree with senator Orn Free Taa, Let's vote' Mee Deechi pointed out they have waited the appropriate amount of time.
_

Back atPadmé's office she paces back and forth. As the three and Techla gathered around the office.

'You must give the speech in his place' Ono stated.

'But they're expecting to hear from the great Bail Organa, he carries a certain weight, he's seen as a voice of reason'Padmé said, doubting herself.

'You are very respected' Ono countered. ButPadmé turned back.

'As a partisan, I've been against this bill from day one, if they didn't listen to me before, why would they listen now?' Teckla, now finding her bravery and being supported by the clones, moved in to give her Padmé a prep talk.

'Because you do listen, you understand what the people are going through' Padmé looked at Clip and Heavy who both took off their helmets and saluted her emphasizing the point Teckla is trying to make.

'Please, your people are waiting for you' Teckla said, handing her a hat. Padmé was breathless for a moment but steeled herself. They're right. The people are waiting for them. Back at the senate room The vote was beginning in earnest as Mas Amedda was putting the Vote onto the floor.

'Let us now vote on senator Burtoni's bill to fund 5 million additional clones'

'The opposition to this bill must be allowed to speak first' Mon Mothma protested.

'Unfortunately, senator Organa is nowhere to be found' Mee Deechi said, that is when Padme moved her seat.

'I will speak on his behalf' She was wearing her senator's outfit now having a fire lit up to speak for what is right.

All looked on as the senator from Naboo would be speaking in opposition to the bill. Mas Amedda nodded and spoke out loud for all the senators in the room that the chancellor allowed it.

'Senator Amidala will be permitted to speak'

'Teckla Minnau' She simply satiated said, the people began to whisper wondering who he/she was.

'Teckla is one of my aides' Gesturing to her where she smiled back with the clones nodding with her.

'Like so many of the people that we tell ourselves we're here to serve, Teckla lives in a district that rarely has electricity and running water as a result of the war' Senators from all walks listened in and whispered to get their facts checked out seeing if this was true and to their shame it was.

'Her children can now only bathe every two weeks, and they have no light in which to read or study at night' Getting some sympathetic senators to change their minds on the bill as well as people at the upper levels watched on and nodded realizing that the lower levels were suffering.

'The Republic has always funded these basic services, but now, there are those who would divert the money to the war with no thought for what the people need to survive' A door was opened arresting Gume Saam as Hexguard, Coruscant Guard, Fives and Echo was apprehending one of the suspects of this money transfer to the bounty hunters listening in to the speech that was being broadcasted in the office.

'If not for people like Teckla and her children, who are we fighting for? My people, your people, all of our people' Now being broadcasted to the lower levers as Vander and the kids watched on overlooking the alleyways shops getting something good to eat.

'This war is meant to save them from suffering, not increase it, I support our brave soldiers, whether they come from the clone factories or from any of the thousands of systems loyal to the Republic, but if we continue to impoverish our people, it is not on the battlefield where Dooku will defeat us, but in our own homes' As Zaun recruits and bounty hunters look on at the broadcast they smuggled from the riots being watched over by a man in a suit with a black eye waiting for his payment from an unknown benefactor.

'Therefore, it is our duty and our responsibility to preserve the lives of those around us by defeating this bill!'

All clapped and cheered at the speech admitting that the speech had swayed their minds and hearts. Ono and the others cheered for Padmé as she looked around. Seeing Tekla, Heavy, and Clip clapping together as she hears applause coming from all directions. Happy that she managed to defeat this bill. All watched cheered as well from the upper levels of Coruscant to the lower levels giving a begrudging respect as all understand the speech came from the heart and want to help the people of the republic for a better tomorrow. All but one clapped as he looked on seeing the wheel of democracy turn.
_

Palpatine was in his chair reading the news reports of how a conspiracy to profit off of their bill was discovered and arrested the fall guy. Swiping it away reading the news about the butcher to comfort himself about how this individual was using fear tactics in his war upon the underworld.

But had to frown as patriotic spirits from both Runterra and these pirates of Zaun are having their ranks swell to a worryingly degree as the confederacy invasion that was suppose to happen was hampered by a bounty hunter leaking classified information on the rallying point close to runeterra and had to relocate to the core worlds being nibbled after every hyperspace jump. He places his hands together thinking about how such certain individuals can change the tide of this war both abroad and at home. Now turning his seat facing to no one in particular. Just musing to himself.

'Isn't it remarkable that one can have all the power in the galaxy' Realizing that despite holding all the cards. He has to fold every now and again due to a bad hand of fate by a single senator from Naboo.

'And yet the words of a single senator can sway the thoughts of millions?' He stood up and question how such a single person had such power.

'What do you plan to do about this?' Mas Amedda questioned. Palpatine paused realizing acting would reveal himself too soon.

'For now, we must adhere to the principles of our democracy' Now walking off to the city skyline thinking up many plans to be enacted later to control the banks at a later date.

'We must let the wheels of the Senate turn' He gritted a little at the end, for he had to accept this defeat but smiled realizing that the wheel may be turned one step back.

Nothing can be said for the wheel to turn three steps forward. Hearing a message at his desk popped up that a shipment of runeterra tech and some choice scientists were experimenting on the hyperdrive technology. Hearing the results behind him. He smiled knowing that it was worth it in the end despite the wheel of the senate turning backwards.

Many wheels were turning forward to his design and he'll enjoy these small pieces of fruit for now. But an even greater prize is being handed to him as a message from a Zaun leader who had just sent five hundred crates of shimmer to test on these clones. Palpatine smiled that his death trooper project might be enacted sooner than he thought.


Word count 20000
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