The air in the small tactical hall, used in the Jedi Temple as an operations center, had become so stale and saturated with the smell of human sweat over the past hours of countless reports and meetings that even the powerful ventilation systems couldn't do anything about it.
The beings present here were literally wilting from fatigue—they had been here since early morning without a break, summing up the military horror unfolding in the galaxy. And, the farther a particular Moff or Jedi was from Coruscant, the more negativity they reported to the command. Losses, failures, retreats, protracted sieges and battles…
Yes, there were successes, but against the backdrop of the overall picture, they were lost so quickly that they flew out of the heads of those present as soon as the figure of a new speaker appeared over the holoterminal.
The present members of the Council were gloomier than ever. Glancing in turn at Yoda, Windu, Shaak Ti, and Kit Fisto—the only Council members located directly in the Temple—Palpatine couldn't help but marvel at the serenity with which they received reports of the deaths of their charges. With mournful expressions, they listened to the Moffs and other Council members, who added fuel to the fire of the bleak news. And then came the turn when the last three Council members connected to the communication channels—Unduli, Gallia, and Dougan.
"Chancellor, Masters," as the most junior in rank among the present Council members, the Grand Moff of the 10th System Army greeted those assembled first. He acknowledged the sector command officers present with only a brief nod of his head. Most likely, he didn't even know any of them personally—all the officers accompanying Palpatine were high-ranking officials of the military department—admirals from sector command, Grand Moffs who rarely left their offices. And loyal enough to the Chancellor himself not to jump ahead of the starship into hyperspace. As well as to bow and scrape to the Jedi.
"So, everyone is here," Windu looked around at those present, then signaled to Grand Moff Tracht. According to the regulations, he was the first to begin his report, and so he moved closer to the Temple's holoprojector, immersing himself in the concise and laconic words of his narrative.
Palpatine knew all this and had no particular desire to listen.
Instead, he was secretly studying one particular Jedi.
A very… cunning representative of the Order.
And Count Dooku was in a rage.
He had practically failed the task set before him. Neither his raiders nor his bounty hunters could track down Dougan, intercept him, and destroy him. Despite the fact that his flight path through controlled territories was known and an ambush awaited him on almost every segment of the route. But he only showed up in the very first part of the route. And Sora Bulq paid with his life for his carelessness.
Did this mean that Dougan was stronger than Tyranus's underlings assumed? Yes, most likely it was so. The boy knows and can do a lot—the other day, Sheev reviewed the holo-recording of his battle with Sev'rance Tann—the very first evidence of the non-trivial nature of the Jedi Dougan. Even then, he was stronger than the Chiss. And he only lost because of his own stupidity.
It seems that over time he became stronger and more cunning—the corpse of Master Bulq is proof of that. To grind such a powerful fallen Jedi to dust… Yes, decidedly, that takes talent.
The question is just where these abilities 'come from'?
Did the subordinates who disappeared from sight enlighten him on such matters? Or, after he returned one of the ancient Jedi holocrons to the Temple, did he keep something for himself? If so, what? How dangerous could such 'supplies' be?
The Jedi held himself with dignity even among the Masters.
It did not escape Palpatine's sharp gaze that the young man, waiting for his turn to report, was almost yawning—fatigue was visible all over his face. And despite all this, he continues to look at the others as if they were shit.
Bah! How was this not noticeable immediately?
The boy has gotten himself some new gear again.
Peering at Master Dougan's robes, Palpatine strained his memory to try to remember where he had seen a similar armor concept. That it was ancient was clear at first glance. Because nowadays, products with such ergonomics and polish, and incredibly suitable for war, are no longer made.
But in the time of Revan…
The corners of the Chancellor's lips curled upward.
Say what you will, but the boy knows how to subtly mock his fellow Jedi. How else to describe the fact that he is now wearing armor that is the spitting image of what the legendary Darth Revan wore? And the traditional black and silver cloak only emphasizes the authenticity of his look. He just needs a mask with a horizontal visor… Ah, yes, there it is, attached to his belt.
It seems that the young Jedi truly draws his strength from the past. Interesting, and at the same time dangerous.
Especially considering the 'Parade of Sovereignties' staged by as many as five sectors at the last somewhat noteworthy session of the Senate.
At first glance, the secession of planets and sectors from the Republic was not something unusual lately. Not a week went by without some backwater system, despairing of waiting for help from Coruscant, 'giving the Senate the finger'. Planets and sectors joined the Separatists, or declared their independence, very often since the war began.
But when it happens on a single day…
And with SUCH sectors at that…
Unlike the majority of senators, who mocked the latest démarche of their former colleagues, Palpatine took it very seriously.
Because he KNEW much more about them than most of these pompous fools.
Resources.
What the great corporations hadn't yet reached was waiting its time on the Outer Rim. Where he assumed the fleet's forward bases were located.
And now it was all slipping through his fingers.
No, of course, he could turn a blind eye — after the Empire was established, he could send the military there and reclaim what was lost. But what could be expected in those sectors by then? Armed resistance? Or were all these demonstrations just a coincidence?
The longer the campaign against the CIS dragged on, the less Palpatine believed in coincidences. They had long since become a system that needed to be dealt with. And the sooner, the better.
Listening to Obi-Wan Kenobi's account of the hardships of battle in his zone of responsibility was a waste of time. Relative calm existed only in the rear system armies, and closer to Coruscant. The Mid Rim could boast relative quiet — and only because all the CIS's efforts, thanks to Sidious and Tyranus, were concentrated on the Outer Rim.
So, listening to another Jedi whine was annoying, but necessary. The Chancellor was obliged to attend such meetings. After all, the military had to report to him — it was the Chancellor who would later inform the Senate of the situation in the galaxy. And for that, he had to be extremely competent in military matters. Even if it wasn't necessary.
Everything he wanted to know had already been brought to his attention. By Intelligence, personal spies, or Count Dooku. So the planned meeting and hearing the reports of the Grand Moffs and Jedi was an empty formality. Which only distracted Darth Sidious from truly important things.
Something was happening.
Something so minor that at first it didn't catch the eye. However, these "coincidences" were far too frequent. Especially lately.
With the help of Isard and Dooku, Palpatine had already formed an objective view of what was happening. And he couldn't help but admit that what this young man was doing deserved praise.
Because it was so... Sith-like. And incredibly... mature, for such a young man.
The longer Sidious pondered the question of who Dougan really was — the instigator of everything happening, or a pawn — the more he concluded that he was a pawn.
Everything happening was too reminiscent of a well-planned algorithm, the preparation for which had been going on for a very long time. Much longer than the Sith had been at it.
Acquiring shares in a shipbuilding company four thousand years ago — right when Rendili was, so to speak, "on top." A perfectly logical choice. What was remarkable about it was that all the Gauntlet-class starfighters, developed four thousand years ago for the Mandalorian Wars, had disappeared from Rendili's orbit. First one departed in an unknown direction, then three more that had been in deep storage. Who needed such junk? Probably the same person who made large-volume purchases of Dreadnoughts at the manufacturer planet, repaired a flying museum of the Valor-class, turning it into his own flagship... Dougan could lead the Jedi Order and their grand little green one by the nose all he wanted, but he, Sidious, would not be fooled by some Jedi.
The audacity with which he purchased a huge amount of weapons and ships through the Christophsis government, practically arming his own army from among the local fanatics... One would have to be blind not to see the obvious.
Palpatine sighed discreetly.
And what else was the Jedi Order? Having shaken hands with a Sith Lord for over ten years, and even going to him for briefings, diligently showering him with compliments?
Not to mention that their former quartermaster, who disappeared after being expelled from the Order, suddenly turned up in the Core Worlds, having taken over a fairly large weapons manufacturing company — Oviedo Engineering, whose head and founder had recently been exposed by a Senate commission for working with the CIS.
Funny, and at the same time extremely suspicious, that the evidence of his guilt was provided by senators from Pantora, Ryloth, and — which caused genuine shock — the chairman of the InterGalactic Banking Clan, Rush Clovis. Count Dooku solemnly assured that the problems with the Muun would soon be resolved, and control of the banks would pass to Palpatine. However, discrediting Clovis by claiming he received the information that propelled him to the pinnacle of power from the CIS leader had failed. The banker rejected all accusations, admitting that Dooku had contacted him and offered help. However, an expert analysis of the information source transmitted by Dooku's droid only proved that Clovis was not lying. He really hadn't used that chip. Where he actually got that information, the master of Scipio refused to say. Instead, as a retaliatory measure, he raised the credit rate for the Republic and the Confederacy by one percent. Such a trifle, which in reality resulted in multi-billion dollar costs for the Republic's already meager budget.
Although Palpatine already had certain suspicions on this matter.
They only strengthened when Intelligence proved that Oviedo Engineering, which had transformed into Gree Engineering and was producing a wide range of weapons and equipment primarily purchased by the Tenth System Army, had an extremely low interest rate on loans from the IGBC. The armor of Revan's Sith Empire soldiers, which the Christophsian militants were wearing (and they were indeed militants — agents indicated that these fighters were only slightly inferior to clones in combat effectiveness), as well as the armor — an exact replica of the ancient Republic elite unit "Desolation Squad" that was flowing in for the clones of the Tenth System Army, and many other technical "innovations" passed off as products of Gree Engineering, according to Isard, did not correspond at all to the company's existing capabilities. At least, such shipments occurred long before this company changed its owner. And the question arose — where, in that case, were the real workshops stamping this equipment?
Isard reported on other similar "orders." The sudden disappearance of such a public figure as Raith Sienar — the head of his own company that once built a ship for Darth Maul. In the deepest secrecy, naturally. The situation was similar with the small company Incom, which supplied ARC-170 starfighters to the army, whose head, as well as a large staff and production lines, simply vanished into thin air.
The company Haor Chall Engineering, which worked for the benefit of the CIS and was successfully thrown overboard after certain "tragic events." An unnamed buyer who paid big money for their worthless shares... And again the company disappears into the vastness of the galaxy.
The Corellians' efforts to build corvettes of the same class as the one Dougan acquired in the Temple hangars. Their same efforts to build a huge number of morally obsolete but still quite sturdy XS-series freighters that had undergone significant modifications. And all these ships vanished without a trace. Although Republic patrols occasionally spotted them — intelligence agents managed to find several old reports. But all ships were released without inspection, as they had accompanying documents in the name of the 13th Sector Army, which at that time was commanded by none other than Dougan. True, further investigation led to Mr. Jabba personally reporting that he had discovered that the captains of these ships, who worked for him, were despicable smugglers, and the documents were forgeries of the original bills of lading issued to real carriers of Hutt companies in the first year of the war, when GAR logistics was crippled. If not for the fact that it was Dougan who had signed the alliance treaty with the Hutt, Palpatine would have considered the entire situation with the freighters just a coincidence, of which there were millions in the galaxy.
Curiously, Intelligence managed to find shares acquired at the same time as those on Rendili and Corellia, also on Kuat. True, the dividends on them had not yet been realized — and those were enormous sums, considering the grandiose orders of the Grand Army. Doubly strange was that the most advanced engineers and designers at Kuat had suddenly broken their long-term contracts. When Palpatine saw the lines in the reports that they had disappeared and had not shown up anywhere in Republic territory, he just chuckled.
A certain system was emerging in all these acquisitions.
Dougan, or those behind him, were masterfully draining resources from the Republic — intellectual resources, first and foremost. Count Dooku had literally yesterday reported the death of Zeta Magnus — an excellent geneticist. Jenna Zan Arbor had disappeared, having caused the Jedi no small amount of trouble in the past. Bant'ena Fern, another talented scientist who was developing biological weapons on a remote CIS planet, had vanished from under the CIS's nose. It was good that the results of her work had been salvaged, and the attack on Chandrila, whose senator was immensely hindering Palpatine, would still take place.
The companions appeared around the same time the "numbered accounts" were opened in the shipbuilding companies. Which posed additional obstacles — any Jedi of the old guard had a huge head start over the modern Order. No wonder Dougan, who stood out so little among the others before Geonosis, had suddenly demonstrated a qualitative leap in his capabilities. Right when he was on the verge of death. Count Dooku had worked hard to find a recording of the battle at the Petranaki Arena. Dougan was mortally wounded and used the Dark Side to save his life. Intuitively, or had he been taught this earlier?
The Sith leaned toward the second option. Most likely, the boy and his teacher-researcher had encountered those who became his companions during their travels. And he had raised his level. Perhaps things were different, but until new data appeared, Palpatine preferred to use this theory as a "working" one.
Next on the list of "coincidences" was a powerful Dark Side surge from the Unknown Regions — right around the time Dougan left the Temple, returning to Coruscant after Geonosis. Another trifle, the answer to which had yet to be found.
And, unfortunately, without a reliable source of information, it was virtually impossible to do so. All that remained was to hope that Count Dooku would keep his word, and the Death Watch would bring Dougan's Mandalorian girlfriend to Sidious.
With all this, Palpatine could not help but admit that the foolish-Jedi card Dougan had played before him had worked perfectly. The boy had risen from the gutter to Grand Moff in less than a year, had entered the Council — and all of this thanks to multi-layered combinations whose elegance both delighted and annoyed Palpatine.
Delighted — because any intrigue so intricate and multi-layered was akin to art. And the Chancellor respected and almost worshipped the latter. The motives of this Jedi were still unclear. What was all this for? He had hinted quite transparently to Palpatine that he wanted to climb the career ladder and would repay a hundredfold for help in this matter. It couldn't be said that he had lied. Under his command, first, was a sector army with the largest zone of responsibility — and he managed it well. For a Jedi, of course. Now he commanded a system army — also the largest.
Isard was quite optimistic in his forecasts. The boy was popular in his army. He was generous with bonuses and promotions for the distinguished, and ruthlessly drove out the incompetent. And how masterfully he solved the problem of the clone shortage? Admittedly, when the spies reported that almost all the disabled clones, whose fate was supposed to end in some dirty alley, were returning to service, and not just anywhere, but to the Ghent system army... Admittedly, Palpatine's first impulse was to send all CIS forces there and turn every planet in three oversectors into molten slag. Because he clearly saw that Dougan was obtaining loyalty to his person among ordinary clones in an extremely cunning way. Created for war, the Kaminoan products, having lost their limbs, were no longer of interest to the GAR — it would be too expensive for the treasury to return them to service. It was simpler to pay them a meager pension until the end of their short lives.
But Dougan, using the same Christophsians as a cover, deftly replenished his losses. Palpatine had specifically requested a selection of statistics. As of last week, the army pension fund was paying disability benefits to over six hundred thousand clones. Enormous sums.
And now this entire mass was returning to service. How this had slipped past the agents remained unclear. But the fact remained. The "disabled" were loaded onto ships of Rendili construction and sent straight to Christophsis, where they were fitted with improved prosthetics and returned to service. Moreover, Intelligence reported that these clones were not only going to support Dougan's army but were also flowing into the units of Masters Unduli and Gallia. You didn't need to be a Dark Prophet — from whom, by the way, there had been no news lately, which was also concerning — to understand that both masters were impressed and influenced by Dougan. So much so that Palpatine had no doubt they were carrying out his orders. Was that conceivable for Jedi? Before, he would have said no. But now, seeing with what mockery the boy wore the armor of the bloodiest Jedi of the last five thousand years, without any fear of being exposed... Indeed, the Jedi Order was no longer a rival to the Sith. They needed to be gotten rid of — the sooner, the better. And first of all, deal with Dougan. Before it got worse. It seemed he had a suitable idea for that...
When Palpatine learned of the return of wounded clones to service, the worm of doubt gnawing at him from within turned into a huge sarlacc. Because it went beyond the usual understanding of not only Jedi but also of a Grand Moff in general. Who in their right mind would bother with damaged goods, invest enormous funds in them, when they could buy perfectly healthy Arkanian clones? Which, moreover, were far more effective than their predecessors.
Although Palpatine listened to the Jedi and Grand Moffs with half an ear, he still noted the information that interested him. In particular, the glowing reviews of the new recruits. Yes, a big role in their survival was played by the advent of the equipment set known as Phase II, which was issued without exception to all new Arkanian clones. More ergonomic and superior in every way to the previous model, it was genuinely capable of weakening the force of an enemy shot, thereby saving the clone from an early death.
This made it doubly unclear why Dougan, Unduli, and Gallia refused the upgrades, preferring to make do with Kaminoan clones, who were moving in three huge streams to the headquarters of the Seventh, Eighth, and Tenth System Armies. A direct answer had not yet been obtained — the analysts just shrugged their hands. Contacting the masters personally over such a trifle would only draw their attention to the issue. Now, at this meeting, he had far more opportunities to get information. It wasn't for nothing that he had brought his protégé, Captain Tarkin, with him.
The collapse of such a delicate operation on Cartao and the loss of Doriana could not but alert Sidious. However, he knew that the advisor was loyal to him down to the molecules, so he would never talk. But the loss of ten thousand excellent Spaarti cloning cylinders, which the Nabooian had planned to keep in his personal treasury on Wayland... Yes, unpleasant, but not significant. Regardless, the Republic had gained an advantage after the destruction of the Spaarti Creation. The quick Arkanians had managed to improve their own technology using the "instant memory" mechanisms, which transferred the entire volume of knowledge to the clones. No training, no drills... Upon emerging from the tube, the new clones were already merciless killing machines. And without any inhibitor chips — absolute loyalty to him, Palpatine, was implanted into their minds along with combat training programs.
It even turned out funny. If Jango Fett had known that Montross had survived and had become the donor for a more advanced clone army than the former Mandalore... Yes, most likely, this news would have brought him far more pain than simple decapitation. How good that Sidious had once concerned himself with the "reserve army" plan and had preserved the half-alive Mandalorian, Montross. And now millions of his fearless copies were becoming the backbone of the Grand Army of the Republic. The very fact of how successfully the shock clone soldiers, who had replaced the worthless Coruscant Guard, were operating, proved that the donor Tyranus brought to Kamino was not at all the right one.
Even if he assumed for a moment that Dougan was plotting a coup, relying on Jango Fett's clones, his plan was doomed. First and foremost — thanks to the inhibitor chips in the heads of those soldiers. They would never go against the Chancellor. Secondly — even if the opposite happened, the Arkanian clones — essentially living combat machines — would crush these worthless ones in an instant.
And yet, Palpatine had no intention of risking giving a third of the Outer Rim to a possible opponent. He should think about how to improve his original plan — to exhaust the Ghent system army with CIS forces. He needed a man close to Dougan, close enough to be privy to his plans... Who could that be? He should think about it.
Meanwhile, Adi Gallia took the floor. Well, it would be interesting to hear her.
"The situation in my system army is extremely difficult," the woman sighed. "After the death of Master Tiin and all the reserves of the ship groups, we are forced to switch to a static defense. The Separatists have managed to create a strong force and a base on Kerkoidia. They also control the Kira, Brevost, and Kalinda systems, which cuts us off from the Corellian Trade Route, which in my army's zone of responsibility is controlled by the enemy from the Allantin system to the borders with the Tenth System Army. Enemy ships have been spotted in the Aridus, Lesser Parcelus, and Bovo-Yagen systems, and we simply do not have the forces to stop them. All our reserves are going to the defense of Allantin from CIS raiders. We are holding the enemy back in the Haarun Kel area, preventing them from reaching Malaster. The force on Enark is bled dry but is holding out under pressure from superior enemy forces, keeping the droids away from Naboo. Vogel cannot be held — it will fall within the next week, so I have moved my headquarters to Chardaan. Fighting is ongoing in the Ze Hez and Pax systems, but our victory is most likely there — we managed to defeat the enemy fleet force there, and we are essentially fighting ground battles, albeit with heavy losses. The situation is similar on Derre and Vaklin. Effectively, we can speak of a three-sided encirclement — we are cut off from the Ninth and Tenth Sector Armies, and can only receive support from Nubia."
"Don't count on it," Windu grimaced. "Their reserves are practically exhausted. Even though the tension in the Mid Rim has eased somewhat, moving reinforcements in your direction would mean exposing our own flanks."
"In that case, all that remains for us is to hold on and hope that Master Dougan finally finishes off the enemy on the Corellian Trade Route and gives us at least some support. We cannot turn the situation around on our own."
Well, of course, Palpatine smirked. That was the plan.
"We will allocate you two dozen ships," Yoda croaked. Seeing the concentrated gazes on him, he explained. "We'll take them from the Fifth Army's reserve."
"They already have less than a third of the standard," Shaak Ti reminded him.
"They have no battles," Yoda cut her off. "We must help Adi Gallia."
"It will be done," Kit Fisto said with a radiant smile.
Naive green-skinned alien. Palpatine just sighed. They never learned. No matter how many reserves you sent to the Eighth Army, they would all be intercepted and destroyed. As soon as Baron Kirvan occupied Iktotch, encirclement would become inevitable. Even if Gallia broke through to Dougan, it would only prolong her agony, but wouldn't save the situation. To win there, hundreds of ships were needed, which Dougan undoubtedly had — Rendili had once again presented a surprise by sending a significantly larger group of ships to Christophsis than those mentioned in official sources. Now just over two hundred ships remained on the slipways. And this time, Intelligence guaranteed they would not be ready for at least a week. By then, the mousetrap should snap shut, and the reinforcements would be destroyed.
"Master Unduli," the Korunnai addressed the Mirialan. "We await your report."
"Briefly," she said quietly. "Under our control is the Calamari sector, which is under siege by the CIS, and a third of the Mitaranor sector — but the Separatists continue to push toward Kashyyyk. We have deployed defenses along a third of the Perlemian Trade Route — from Lantilles to Roche and Sarki. The rest of the oversector is controlled by the Separatists. Also, more than half of the territories of the former Eleventh Sector Army are under our control — the situation there has not changed much since the beginning of the war. Like Master Gallia, we are forced onto the defensive. Thanks to Master Dougan and the Hutts, we are receiving reinforcements from Rothana and Kamino, and food supplies from Ukio. We are building up reserves to transition to more active operations."
"This situation is unacceptable," Yoda said bitterly. "We must relieve Mon Calamari."
"But..."
"This must be done as quickly as possible," Windu frowned.
"I will do everything I can, but most of my forces are pinned down by the enemy, and all available reserves are on Aargonar," Unduli said darkly. "We are fighting heavy battles, and..."
"This is not up for discussion," Yoda said sternly. Looking at him, Palpatine was somewhat surprised.
Only now did he notice that the little Jedi had deteriorated considerably. He hadn't looked great before, but now he was completely falling apart. Had the loss of so many Jedi recently affected his health?
That was just the beginning.
Sheev suppressed the urge to smile. Partly, he had come to this meeting to observe the Jedi's reaction to several events.
And the first of them was about to begin. The Grand Moff of the Ninth System Army had just finished his brief and extremely concise report.
Now — for the dessert.
"Well, then," Dougan cleared his throat. "The situation in the army is difficult. There aren't many prospects, but we are holding on. We have localized the enemy's raiding squadrons in our rear, so relative calm has set in there. We managed to straighten the front line in the southwest. The front line now runs through the systems of Little Marix, Svivren, Suarbi, Wohai, Rugosa, Trigalis, Farstin, Zhar, Llanik, Mon Gazza, Pakvepor, Darkenvell. In the New Cov system, the battle with the CIS force continues. The northern border runs through the Monastery, Nexus Orto, Dressel, Lannik systems and effectively continues within the original border of the 13th Sector Army. The enemy has powerful forces concentrated in the western and southeastern parts of the zone of responsibility. Intelligence reports that the Separatists are creating fortified bases suitable for long-term autonomous existence, even under siege conditions. Thus, we are cut off from the east and west from our neighbors. Our only route lies along the southern territories of Hutt Space, and, accordingly, through it. After analyzing the current situation, my staff assumes that the Separatists intend to split the sector armies — at least, based on what I have heard — at least the Seventh, Tenth, and Eighth among themselves, in order to destroy them one by one with concentrated strikes. For this purpose, those very fortified sectors are being created — taking them by storm is simply impossible, and thanks to the Separatist siege, we effectively cannot receive full reinforcements from the center of the galaxy. What we have now is a thin trickle. Therefore, in the near future, the staff is working on a plan to strike the enemy forces near Rindellia, with a subsequent advance on Enark and a breakthrough of the blockade toward the Seventh System Army. Further, in this area, we plan to develop the success toward Bannistar and Kalarba to cut off the enemy near New Cov's ability to retreat to our flanks."
"What are your plans regarding the relief of the Corellian Trade Route in your zone of responsibility?" asked one of the high-ranking officers of the Sector Command. Palpatine had to admit that such interest was shown most timely. While he remained silent and did not interfere in the reports — the time had not yet come. He needed to play the role of a politician-Chancellor, not the Supreme Commander.
"Simultaneously with the start of the operation near Rindellia," Dougan said in a bored voice, "the second fleet group will strike at Daalang. Despite the fact that this world is at the intersection of several hyperspace routes, the CIS forces there are insignificant — for the most part, their allies from Emberlene are operating there, who have already plundered more than half the sector. Now a significant pirate force has established itself in this system — according to our estimates, there are no less than thirty large ships there."
"Do you expect to cope with such an armada in a short time?" Tarkin asked incredulously.
"I hadn't even thought about that," Dougan chuckled. "We don't need Daalang at all—the main part of the fleet's ships will jump to Deneb. From there—to Lorans, Kularin, Aridus, and Gamorr. If everything goes quickly and according to plan, we'll liberate a significant portion of the territories and also lift the blockade from a significant stretch of the Corellian Run, which will connect us with the Seventh Systems Army."
"This is all good in words," Tarkin remarked. "But for such operations, you will need significant forces—or do you intend to abandon your borders?"
"I wouldn't even think of doing that," Dougan said without blinking. "We have a certain reserve both among line infantry and volunteers, and in ships."
"So I understand you're betting on the speed of attacks," Tarkin squinted.
"Exactly," the Jedi agreed.
"This could negatively affect the entire operation," Mace Windu remarked. "If the Force does not favor you anywhere, the second part of your forces will be cut off from their rear… This operation is too responsible to be carried out by any of the knights under your command…"
"That's why I will personally lead the attack on the Corellian Run," Dougan sighed. Seeing that the officer wanted to ask him something, he hastily added, "My people have extensive experience in carrying out this kind of operation. Besides, before the start of open hostilities, we always receive the most up-to-date reconnaissance information. Therefore, I am completely confident in the success of the mission."
Bold, straightforward… Yes, such a strategy had already paid off handsomely after the crisis on Bothawui. Then Dougan's ships swept like a punishing sword through large and small Separatist detachments, instantly returning the system to the bosom of the Republic. It should be reported to the Count—this lively Jedi should be cut down to size—the sooner, the better.
Because if his idea works, then the planned encirclement of the Gent System Army with the subsequent destruction of the militia loyal to Dougan, equipment, and everything that could disrupt the Plan—will all come to naught.
"We must pay attention to information about a possible encirclement," Yoda remarked. "We must not allow such a thing."
"Grand Master is right," Trachta joined the conversation. "By encircling Gent, the enemy will cut us off from Rothana—meaning all supplies of military equipment and ships from there will stop—and that's up to a third of all ships and three-quarters of military equipment. Additional forces should be sent to Christophsis…"
"Thank you," as soon as the Grand Moff of the First Systemic fell silent, Dougan took the floor, unceremoniously taking that right from Windu. "At the present moment, all possible measures have been taken by me to strengthen the army's defensive capability. Exactly in case of encirclement."
"Are you ready to give up like that?" Tarkin smirked, for which he was gifted with an icy, indifferent stare from the Jedi.
"I am considering the worst-case scenarios, CAPTAIN," Dougan emphasized the officer's rank with his voice, as if hinting that it was not proper for such upstarts to contradict their seniors. Simply delightful—it turns out he has a touchy ego. Must remember.
"You are threatened with complete encirclement!" Tarkin persisted. "And you talk about it so casually."
A heavy sigh came from the side of the holoprojection.
"Tarkin," Dougan said quietly. "Have you completely lost your mind over there at headquarters?"
"What?" The officer, who had been taken aback, instantly regained his aristocratic composure. "How dare you…"
"Fine," the Jedi raised his hand, calling for the captain to be silent. "Since you haven't read the briefing notes from my staff, I'll explain it as if to children in kindergarten, the younger group."
A second later, a three-dimensional map of the Tenth Systems Army's area of responsibility appeared above the holoterminal. With numerous markings.
"Currently, the army has two full-fledged repair bases—Ord Pardron and Christophsis. On Ryloth and Pantor, construction of such stations has only just begun," he explained. "We have deployed half a dozen medical stations in our rear, capable of simultaneously receiving up to three hundred thousand clones. Recently, we have obtained two fuel plants in the Melida/Daan system. We have food resources. If it comes to encirclement, we are able to provide for ourselves—with a slight stretch, of course, since we don't have suitable planets for tibanna extraction in our assets. For that eventuality, I am ready to use the provisions of our alliance treaty with the Hutts and force them to open their warehouses to us. Although, I don't think Mr. Jabba would refuse us such a trifle."
"In encirclement, you won't have the opportunity to replenish your army numbers with new clones," another officer from the command noted. "Therefore, it's best to concentrate all forces on a strike against New Cov."
"Esteemed," the Jedi's voice carried irritation. "On my home planet, in such cases, they say—'Drink some birch sap with pulp.' But jokes aside, my army is staffed with Kaminoan-produced clones."
"A waste of money," Tarkin snorted. "They are being phased out and subject to mass decommissioning…"
"You have raised a pertinent question," Yoda voiced. "The Council is interested to know why it is these clones who fight in the southern armies. Can you explain your decision, Master Dougan?"
Palpatine prepared to hear the answer with a slight smile. After all, Dougan's arguments must be beskar-strong. As always, indeed.
"In my opinion, Kaminoan clones are the most suitable military force for my army," Dougan shrugged. "If we are threatened with encirclement—which is quite real—then I would rather have fighters on hand whose losses I can replenish on Kamino. After all, as far as I remember, they will be producing fighters for the Republic for a few more months. And if so, I see no reason to staff the army with new soldiers, whose attrition could be fatal for me."
"I am in solidarity with Master Dougan on this issue," Unduli said. "In conditions of encirclement, having a base for replenishment is a decisive factor."
"For the same reasons, in my army too, most soldiers and sailors are clones from Kamino," Gallia supported. "In the event of a successful elimination of the Separatist resistance pocket between our armies, I will also have access to clones from Kamino."
"However," Mace Windu took the floor, "this does not explain the fact that severely wounded fighters, decommissioned for medical reasons, are returning to your armies."
"The same principle here," Dougan sighed. "For the most part, they don't need such extensive medical care—just prosthetics. The government of Christophsis has met me halfway, providing such clones with not the cheapest, but not expensive prostheses. Thus, we simultaneously kill two gizka. First, soldiers who already have combat experience return to the army. Second, in the army, they are placed on the supply budget allocated by the Senate. Which automatically deprives the clones of pensions. And that is a significant saving for the Republic's budget and the military department in particular. Am I wrong, esteemed Chancellor?"
The gazes of those present turned to Palpatine. Suppressing the desire to smirk, he approached the holoprojector.
"You are absolutely right, Master Dougan. I have already been informed that thanks to such manipulations, the sector command frees up billions that can be directed toward purchasing fleets and combat equipment. It is gratifying to see that you are so zealous about the problems of the Republic's budget," Palpatine bestowed a perfunctory smile upon him.
"Just doing my job," Dougan sighed. "I have no doubt about the effectiveness of the new clones, but I see no point in writing off millions of still combat-capable soldiers in favor of fashionable trends. So, taking this opportunity," he looked around at those gathered, "I want to say that if any of you have a desire to renew your army, contact my staff. We will take all of Jango Fett's clones that you consider unnecessary in your armies. Naturally, not for free."
"The First Systemic is ready to help you with this matter," Trachta interjected. "We have over a million such clones of all specialties on our rolls."
"I think," Plo Koon supported, "this is an acceptable option. Given that you are facing mostly defensive battles, the maximum possible number of clones from Kamino should be sent to Gent."
"As well as to the Seventh and Eighth Armies," Shaak Ti remarked.
"In that case, supplies of clones from Kamino to other systems armies should be permanently stopped, redirecting them to these three," Tarkin concluded. "I am inclined to agree with Grand Moff Dougan—in the current situation, this is the most optimal solution."
"So be it," Master Windu summed up. "Are there any objections from other commanders?"
There were none, for obvious reasons. Palpatine just smirked. Well, of course. The Jedi were impressed by the new clones. Who would refuse to exchange outdated models for modern ones, considering that Dougan was also paying for it?
"Won't the size of the Gent Army be too great in that case?" a representative of sector command asked thoughtfully. "By the most modest estimates, you will receive over a dozen million clones—considering those you recruit from pension?"
"In the current situation, it might even be too few," the Jedi Master grimaced. "Our area of responsibility is enormous, and we face serious battles. I quite reasonably believe that the existing forces will be insufficient to break through the enemy's layered defense separating us from the Eighth Systemic. And we'll have to deal with the Seventh as well."
"I recall," Palpatine interjected in the same oily voice of the kind Chancellor, "that you have volunteer units. And their number is the largest among all the others."
"That's correct," Dougan nodded. "But they are inferior in combat effectiveness to clones. Even though mercenaries train them, it still leaves much to be desired. I use volunteers as occupation garrisons. After planets come under our control, the army's line units return to their deployment sites, and militiamen land on the planet. It's much easier to control already conquered space than to recapture planets."
"I am not very knowledgeable in military affairs," Palpatine stated conciliatorily. "But it seems to me that volunteers are not the best option for police forces in occupied territories."
"I have no law enforcement units in my establishment," Dougan spread his hands. "I make do with what I have."
"I think we can solve this problem," Palpatine smiled naively. Meeting eyes with Grand Moff Trachta, he pretended to recall necessary information. "It seems the new clones are already replacing the Coruscant Guard, aren't they?"
"Only by thirty percent," the latter frowned. "The main part of the new clones goes to the armies. The law enforcement forces are staffed on a residual basis…"
"Coruscant has its own law enforcement forces," Palpatine pressed stubbornly. "I think we can begin the full relocation of the Coruscant Guard to Christophsis. How long will it take?"
"A little over a week," Trachta grew stern. Undoubtedly, the idea of baring the capital did not appeal to him. But Palpatine needed exactly that.
"In that case, it must begin right now," no one would dare dispute Palpatine's request-order. At least not the officers. But the Jedi…
"Chancellor, is this wise?" Windu pursed his lips. "We are depriving the capital of its garrison in the midst of war."
"First of all, there is currently a lull in the Core Worlds," Palpatine said. "Besides, we are not pulling out all forces—a third remains. How long does it take to complete the manning of the garrison with new clones?"
"Four weeks," Trachta answered. Who would doubt that this officer had precise information.
"Is there any reason to believe that the Separatists will attack Coruscant during this time?" Palpatine clarified. Although he knew his subordinates' answer in advance.
"No, but…"
"Then let's consider this matter closed," he cut off Trachta's objection. "Master Dougan is in an extremely difficult situation. And having a reliable rear is much more important for him than for us to keep combat-ready law enforcement forces with no hint of a threat."
"But that's almost five hundred thousand soldiers," Master Windu protested. "We cannot…"
"Actually, the Coruscant Guard consists of twenty corps, that is, over seven hundred thousand," Trachta corrected him. "The Chancellor is right—if they are used in their former capacity—to protect vital facilities, then they will be able to take control not only of the territory of the Gent Army but also…"
"This is my next proposal," Palpatine smiled. "Master Dougan, based on reports, is the only one among the systems army commanders whose troops are operating relatively successfully. And this is despite a large area of responsibility. It seems to me it would be right if he takes under his operational command the systems armies 'Greck' and 'Heft'."
"Forgive me, Chancellor," Mace Windu remarked in a calm tone. "But these armies already have commanders—Masters Unduli and Gallia."
"Oh, no-no, I am in no way demanding a change of commanders," Palpatine raised his hands placatingly. "But it seems to me that the tactical genius of Grand Moff Dougan will come in handy for solving problems in these armies. After all, their situation is equally dire. All three armies are threatened by encirclement and very heavy defensive battles. Moreover, you have a uniform military force—Kaminoan clones. It seems completely reasonable to me if the most talented in military affairs member of the Council takes command of these three systems armies. Masters Unduli and Gallia, meanwhile, can perfectly execute his instructions on the ground."
"This is too great a responsibility, Your Excellency," Dougan seemed to have suspected something. Palpatine expected nothing less from him. "Effectively, half of the Outer Rim will fall into my area of responsibility."
"Your military successes speak for themselves," Palpatine spread his hands. "Believe me, I understand that I am placing a huge responsibility on your shoulders—the Senate acted towards me in a similar manner. But the war demands radical measures from us."
Dougan's hologram perfectly expressed everything he thought about this. Tense posture, pressed lips, clenched fists… Yes, it seems he realized that he would now have to spread all his forces very thin. So thin that the CIS armada would easily crush any barrier he could place in their path.
Yes, effectively this meant almost a challenge thrown by Palpatine to Dougan. But for him to understand that, he had to know that the Chancellor was playing against him. Sidious himself did everything possible to make the situation look like just a desperate attempt by the Chancellor to overexploit the Jedi.
"I do not agree with this," Yoda objected. "A large theater of military operations opens before Master. Impossible to fully respond to all threats at that."
"It seems extremely unwise to me to subordinate three homogeneous armies to different commanders," Palpatine insisted. "Such a system should function under a unified command. Therefore, I still see that at least to eliminate the threat to the Republic in this part of the galaxy, all three armies should be subordinate to Master Dougan. At least on a strategic level."
"We cannot oppose your will," although the Grand Master's voice said otherwise.
"I think it's time to finish hearing the reports," Windu concluded. "The floor is given to Captain Tarkin."
"Thank you, High General Windu," the officer said coldly, connecting his own datapad to the holoterminal.
"Having heard the reports of the systems army commanders, the high command has additional information about what is happening. First of all, fresh intelligence data that has not yet reached the systems armies," he paused to catch his breath. Palpatine, casting a furtive glance at the Jedi, once again suppressed a smile. Now they were about to hear the juiciest details of what was happening in the galaxy.
"Republic Intelligence confirms the death of Master Saesee Tiin," Tarkin's voice was flat and devoid of any emotion. "Although his body was not discovered by scouts in the Kerkoidia system—for obvious reasons—meanwhile, this information is being broadcast on the CIS Shadowfeed. As is the recording of the battle between Master Tiin and one of Count Dooku's henchmen—Baron Kirvan."
For the next few minutes, the Jedi silently watched as their former comrade skillfully dispatched one of the best Jedi aces. When the recording ended, a oppressive silence hung in the hall.
"The Baron has become dangerous," Yoda broke the silence. "New techniques he has learned since our last meeting. Stop him we must."
"I will take this task upon myself, Master," Windu said sternly. "We will form a strike team that will find him and bring him to trial…"
"I'm afraid," Tarkin delicately reminded them, "it won't be so easy. The footage changed to new ones. This time Kirvan was fighting not just one Jedi. "This holo-recording appeared on the network over an hour ago. Our 'slicers' blocked it on all available resources almost immediately, but the recording keeps being re-uploaded to new hosts. We believe this is one of the CIS's ways of undermining trust in the Republic and the Jedi in particular."
Yes, Yoda was indeed right. Kirvan had grown. The ease with which he was disposing of a whole group of Jedi… was impressive. Palpatine made a note to himself. He should pay close attention to this man. He could not allow such a beast to live longer than necessary.
"The result of the battle—confirmed death of Jedi Master Simms and her Padawan Noira Na. The other Jedi present aboard the starship were also killed."
"Outrageous treachery," Shaak Ti flared. "Salmara and Justice were wounded…"
"Pity he knows not," Yoda explained. "A wild beast Dooku has made him. And an even greater threat he poses because of it."
"As far as we know, the battle took place in the Iktotch system," Adi Gallia's eyebrows rose in surprise. "Master Simms' ship found a damaged Venator in the system and docked with it. Obviously, they thought it was the ship that was supposed to deliver Jedi reinforcements to the Tenth Systems Army…"
"But this group hasn't even departed from Rendili yet," Dougan stated. "For the safety of the group of younglings sent to me by the Council, I decided it would be advisable to form a strong escort for greater security. Master Simms was instructed on this matter and their ship was supposed to make its way on its own."
"Be that as it may, we have six dead Jedi due to Baron Kirvan," Tarkin shrugged. "At the same time, his troops have landed on Iktotch. According to our data, there are over a hundred enemy ships in the system, and up to seven million droids on the surface."
"Unthinkable," Gallia sighed. "We didn't even know about this…"
"Kirvan is using minor hyperspace routes to avoid encountering our forces," Dougan suggested. "I don't see any other way he could have slipped past our patrols unnoticed."
"Here you are more right than ever, Master Jedi," Tarkin grinned. "Intelligence confirms this—Kirvan does not use major trade routes in the Republic's area of responsibility. Therefore, we cannot catch his fleet, which he commands from aboard another Eclipse-class ship—twin of the Malevolence."
"Another Malevolence?" Kenobi was surprised. "Then it's clear how he defeated Tiin's fleet at Kerkoidia."
"We only have general information about this ship," Tarkin admitted. "But we are confident that it is not equipped with an ion cannon. Just a lot of turbolasers…"
"Another problem," Plo Koon stated. "Such ships are deadly dangerous for any fleet…"
"According to our data, this dreadnought with an escort squadron is located somewhere in the territories of the Seventh or Tenth Systems Armies," Tarkin added to the headache. "So, sector command sets you, Grand Moff Dougan, the task—to find and destroy this 'Death Squadron' in the near future."
"'Death Squadron'?" Dougan asked again. "Where does that name come from?"
"The common folk on the HoloNet worked hard," Tarkin reported. Seeing that the Jedi were starting to talk among themselves, he coughed politely to attract attention. "Allow me to continue."
"We are listening," said the little "green friend," as Palpatine privately called the head of the Order.
"In general, the situation is dire," the captain read the text from his datapad screen. "The Separatists, although they have weakened their pressure in the Core Worlds and the Mid Rim, are not idle. The space and approaches to Neimoidia are seeded with space mines—the CIS is guarding its main worlds in every way. We have responded in kind, securing Kuat similarly. It should be noted the increased level of xenophobia, particularly on Coruscant. This is primarily due to the human population's hostility toward races supporting the Separatists. The special operation carried out by commando forces to eliminate terrorist cells has only slightly lowered the degree of social discontent, so command would recommend increasing the size of the planet's garrison and law enforcement forces."
"I will do everything I can," Trachta said through gritted teeth.
"Next. Confirmed death of Master Ronar Kim and his Padawan on Merson," Tarkin seemed to be amused, listing the names of the slain Jedi. "The reasons for the operation's failure are still being investigated…"
But for Darth Sidious, everything was perfectly clear. Ronar Kim had proposed an extremely simple way to identify the Sith Lord in the Senate—conduct a universal test to determine midi-chlorian levels. In those gifted with the Force, it is noticeably higher than in ordinary citizens. Consequently, that was how the truth could be established. To his misfortune, Kim reported this to Palpatine, hoping for his help. Sheev helped—and now Kim's body would not soon return to the Temple.
"According to the latest reports, the CIS has occupied the planet Vikuyansi in the Sliver region. Also, the defection to the CIS side of Togoria, Onderon, Umbara, the captures of Uiter, Ambria, Nazzi, Vina, Fazir came as a complete surprise to us. We believe General Grievous is operating in that area, who was spotted on New Epsolon. I think no one will be surprised if I say that he killed another ten Jedi?"
"Another threat for us, Master Dougan," the Grand Master voiced the already obvious information. "Capture him and bring him to justice as soon as possible."
"With all due respect, Grand Master," the Jedi audibly gnashed his teeth. "Aren't there too many tasks assigned to me alone? If these two bastards are here, then what is happening in the other armies at all?"
"The reports have been given," Tarkin said languidly. "The situation there is no less severe…"
"Yeah, sure," Dougan was openly angry. "Then I need ships—the more, the better. Everything command can allocate. First of all, it is necessary to reinforce the group on Lantillis. The capture of Fazir is a direct road to headquarters."
"The planet is well defended," Unduli explained. "The system has over a hundred defensive platforms and stations. The local defense forces have over two hundred of their own ships—Gozanti-class cruisers, Dreadnoughts. That will be enough to repel any attack."
"Esteemed Council, Command," Dougan said decisively. "In the current situation, squeezed between Kirvan and Grievous, I request permission to requisition available ships from Rothana and Allantin, reorienting the ships and equipment produced on these planets to the needs of the Seventh, Eighth, and Tenth Armies."
"That is a large volume of military cargo," Mace Windu objected. "The other seven systems armies also need ships and equipment…"
"Our position is much worse," Dougan retorted. "With the available ships, it is practically impossible to restore control…"
"This is advisable," Yoda unexpectedly supported the Master. "My permission I give to you."
Palpatine smirked. Well, of course, he agreed. The Sith had expected nothing less. The more resources Dougan extracted from his army, the more CIS forces he tied to his area of responsibility—the easier it would be to manipulate the opinion of the Senate and the public. To extol his successes while he lived. And to use his, no doubt, heroic death to advance the Plan even further.
"Master Unduli informed us that the situation in the Mon Calamari sector is alarming," Tarkin reminded. "However, she seems unaware of how much. Despite our victory there, the situation has worsened. The king has been killed," a oppressive silence swept through the gathering. "The Quarren do not recognize the heir's authority. Our spies report the appearance of Separatist representatives in the sector, led by General Ruff Tamsen. We believe that non-intervention in what is happening will cause us to lose this sector."
"But, how…" Shaak Ti was surprised. "The sector is under siege…"
"It seems this is not a problem for the Separatists," Palpatine remarked with a sorrowful expression.
"Furthermore, attention should be paid to the situation in the Ninth System Army," Tarkin's voice wavered slightly. "Until now, despite the fact that over the past year the Separatists have gained control over most of the worlds along the Rimma Trade Route in the Outer Rim, we have been able to hold them back. Much of this is due to the merits of the military command of Eriadu and Sallasta. The CIS has been striking from Klak'dor VII and Sluis Van, which were brilliantly repelled by the forces of Grand Moff Octavian Grant," the named man, present at the meeting as a hologram, bowed courteously. "However, we did not account for the fact that Sallasta is closely tied economically to the Commerce Guild, which is a member of the CIS. Therefore, we have lost control of that system." Palpatine mentally applauded the native of Eriadu. The way he masterfully glossed over the fact that the most important reason for Sallasta joining the Confederacy was its dissatisfaction with the expansionist and militaristic policies of Eriadu — consequences that Sallastians had been experiencing since the days of Ranulf Tarkin thirty years ago.
"After this démarche, the worlds loyal to the Republic on the Rimma Trade Route, including Praesitlyn and Eriadu — the latter possessing important strategic value due to its location at the intersection of the Rimma and Hydian routes — found themselves effectively inside CIS territory and vulnerable as never before. Here, command considers the most optimal course to be strengthening the base on Eriadu and sending additional combined forces of ships and soldiers."
"We cannot allow the loss of Eriadu," Master Yoda remarked. "Reserves we shall find."
Well, well... how optimistic.
"It should also be noted that the CIS has intensified the operations of its raiders on the Corellian Trade Route. A significant portion of our reinforcements and resources are coming under attack; more than half of them have been destroyed. Therefore, commanders of the System Armies should allocate the maximum possible number of light forces for seeking out and destroying pirates and raiders on the trade routes," Tarkin continued. "Another loss of ours is the destruction of most of the Antarian Rangers at their base in the Antar system. The survivors have relocated to the planet Toprawa, but as a combat-ready unit, they are of little further use."
"A grievous loss this is," Yoda sighed.
"The Rangers were quite useful to the Order and the Republic, supporting the Jedi in their missions," Shaak Ti agreed.
Palpatine smiled at his own thoughts. That's precisely why Count Dooku destroyed them. The Jedi's allies must be destroyed. At any cost.
Knowing the contents of Tarkin's report in advance, the Chancellor was extremely disappointed that Isard and his subordinates still hadn't located the two additional Gloat-class ships — besides Baron Kirvan's flagship — already completed by the CIS and ready for operation. Such a reinforcement of the Separatists did not serve the Sith Lord's interests, so he needed to consider how to restore the balance of power between both sides.
"The Separatists are too strong," Adi Gallia shook her head. "We are inferior to them in the number of line-class warships..."
"That is so," agreed an admiral from the Sector Command. "Fresh data on CIS ships that our intelligence has managed to detect has already been sent to the field. These are Bastion-class destroyers that our scouts discovered at the Phaerost Shipyards. At the same time, spies report tensions between the government of the InterGalactic Banking Clan and the CIS leadership. It's even possible that Clovis might be able to reason with the Muuns and make them stop supporting the Separatists. That, in turn, would deprive them of the lion's share of their fleet — at present, up to a third of the Separatist fleet consists of Bounty-class frigates."
"Yes, the IGBC's withdrawal would be welcome news for us," Master Rancisis noted. The other Jedi silently supported him. Only Palpatine knew it wouldn't end so simply. It mustn't end so simply.
"The next sector requiring attention," Tarkin continued as if nothing had happened, "is Mandalore."
"What's happened there?" Kenobi tensed.
"Rumors that this sector's government supports the CIS are increasingly strengthening in society," Palpatine took the floor. "As soon as Duchess Kryze exposed the truth behind her problems with the 'Death Watch' and returned home, we began receiving alarming reports that significant forces of 'Black Sun' and the Pykes have been spotted there. We are talking about the seizure of an entire sector by criminals, which we cannot allow..."
"And yet Mandalore is a neutral system," Windu objected. "We offered to send armed forces to the Duchess's aid. However, she assured us she would handle it herself."
"That is so," Palpatine agreed. "Without direct permission from the Mandalorian government, we cannot move our troops there. Otherwise, we will be seen as occupiers..."
"But we cannot leave the Duchess alone with this problem," Kenobi remarked. "If Mandalore falls under the control of criminals..."
"We will limit ourselves to merely observing the situation," Windu pressed back against his colleague. "As long as it does not threaten the Republic..."
"Actually," Tarkin favored the Korun with a cold glance. "It does threaten it."
An image appeared above the holoprojector...
"Darth Maul!" Kenobi nearly exclaimed. "How is this possible?"
"It seems, Master Kenobi," Dougan said quietly, "that you're out of the Sith-killing club."