Hey everyone, here I am again. I am now officially graduated! I am also very tired. Anyways, here is my latest chapter. This was actually a harder one to type than I thought. Much less action, but a vital part of growing a Rebellion, getting allies and expanding. I want to thank you guys for all the support and everything, thanks for helping to make this story a continued success, and for calling me out on my mistakes, I want to bring good content with every chapter, please, keep it up! I ready each comment that gets sent in, and I consider any and all feedback, although I may not necessarily add it. One thing I do want to say is that I don't plan on having the Inquisitors become this running villain that always gets away. I've been working out how to make them work against highly skilled duelists like Obi-Wan and Anakin.

I also want to say that while most/all of the 212th and 501st clones did get their chips out, they still wound up following Appo and the other clone officers who remained loyal to the Empire. In addition to their chips, clones underwent a heavy amount of conditioning that made them loyal to the Republic and the Chancellor. It's kind of a blend of The Clone Wars' bio-chips and the old canon explanation that troopers were brainwashed to the point of following the order. The 501 and 212 both suffer heavy casualties due to how often Anakin and Obi-Wan are on the front, and this means both units often get a high level of new replacements, shinnies, who are easily more loyal to the Chancellor than their generals. They wouldn't have had that camaraderie or relationship built up.

Sidious sneered down from his throne in what had once been the office of the Supreme Chancellor as Barris Offee, now known as the 3rd Sister, was brought before him by two of his Imperial Guards. As ordered by him, her stump had only received the minimal amount of care necessary. He waited until the guards had brought her to the base of his throne and watched as she refused to meet his gaze. She fell to her knees before him.

"W…what is thy bidding, Lord Sidious?" She asked as the guards backed away. Sidious remained silent for a moment, calming the anger he felt at her failures, and the utter contempt for the near worthless being before him. She had failed him twice now, and had been laid low by Skywalkers padawan, Tano. She'd even failed to kill Master Luminara. The only reason he didn't have her killed right now was that she was immersed in the dark side, even more so than some of her fellow inquisitors. While nowhere near the level to ever become a Sith, she may still have some use as a Dark Acolyte… depending on if she raised his ire again.

"Third Sister, you have failed me again… and in your failure you were lain low by the padawan of Skywalker, Tano." He spoke after a moment. "You are little more than the padawan that you were for the Jedi, weak, pathetic." He spat, and oh, the results of that were delicious. Her anger spiked, the dark side flaring inside her.

"M… my lord, I was not prepared for Kenobi and Tano to interv-!" He cut her pointless explanation off with a simple motion of slightly closing his hand, wrapping the force around her throat. Sidious grinned as her hand began clawing at her throat, her eyes bulging some as she choked for breath.

"I have no patience nor desire to hear your excuses. It matters not. You have failed me, and in the process, you have made our enemies stronger." He sneered. "Tell me… why should I not end your miserable existence now?" He asked, the slightest twitch of a sneer showing on his face as he loosened his grip ever so slightly.

"I… I promise m…my lord! I… I shall prove myself t-to you!" She gasped out, pleading.

"And how do you intend to do that?" He asked, intrigued by what she might offer.

"I… I swear to you, I will kill Kenobi and Sky-!" This time he used the force to slam her into the back wall of his office, holding his arm out, his sneer now a glare of anger.

"Oh, you have proven yourself to me in that aspect quite enough. Had it been either Kenobi or Skywalker you dueled on that platform, you would be dead on Kashyyyk. You are lucky that Tano aimed for your wrist instead of your neck." He said, voice never going above a speaking tone. "I will tell you why you still live, despite your insolence. You have some minor use to me. Your willingness to embrace the dark side shows me that you may be useful as of yet. You will go with my new apprentice, Darth Talionis. Lord Talionis, you will take her and a group of inquisitors of your selection and will begin a hunt for the Jedi in full. Do not fail me in this." He demanded. "But, before you take her… with every failure, a lesson must be learned." Sidious remarked, turning to Offee.

In the closest thing Sidious could feel to absolute glee, he unleashed his lightning on her, and cackled as he drank in her screams.

"One. Two. Three. Pivot. Four. Five. Six." Anakin counted as he watched Gant avoid the training blaster shots that Rex and some of the other troopers were sending his way. "That's it Gant, keep moving, always be ready for the next shot. Let the force guide your saber to each incoming bolt." His padawan's movements were a bit jerky and sudden, not committed to muscle memory yet, but it was certainly a start. Committing training like this to muscle memory had saved Anakin on more than one occasion against overwhelming numbers of droids, and he had no doubt it would help Gant as well.

After a moment, Anakin nodded to Rex and Jesse, who both began to fire faster. He watched as Gant picked up the pace of his deflection, moving appropriately to dodge the blaster fire. However, as the fire picked up, he started having to dodge more and more instead of deflecting. He had to push and test Gant a bit as he grew more comfortable with slower amounts of fire, because in combat, the Stormtroopers would be pouring on everything they could. After a moment, he called a halt to the exercise, watching as Gant panted some from the work.

"Well done Gant, you held your ground as long as possible, and knew when to resort to dodging as the blaster fire became too much." He said, walking over to his Padawan. They were currently in a cleared-out space of the Twilight II's cargo hold, making it an impromptu training arena. "I don't need to explain the importance of this, you've seen it firsthand." Anakin smiled. "And soon, I'll teach you how you can turn it into an offensive style as well." He explained.

Gant nodded, seeming to understand. "I see Master, thank you… but, what about lightsaber dueling?" He asked, and Anakin could sense that curiosity. Gant always seemed most interested in lightsaber combat, even taking the time to closely watch it when he and Obi-Wan had sparred.

Anakin placed a hand on his Padawan's back. "That will come in time Gant. I promise. I've already shown you some things, and with time I will help you become a proper duelist… but for now I want to make sure you're ready for facing the Imperial military." He said.

"I understand Master, I guess I just… I want to make sure I'm ready. During the fight against those Inquisitors, I wasn't much help." He said.

Anakin shook his head, "Gant, you were a big help. For one, you helped our smaller force of clone troopers hold off a much larger group. Then, when the inquisitors escaped the apartment complex, you weren't afraid to jump in and help the rest of us. Although you are a bit reckless… but, so was I as a Padawan." He said, honestly. He wanted Gant to know that he was a capable Jedi, and that with time he would grow beyond anything Anakin could ever teach him. "You're going to do just fine as a Jedi, Gant. Here, after we reach Chandrilla, I'll make sure to start focusing on dueling with you." He said.

That earned him a bit of a smile from Gant, "Thank you Master. I want to be able to keep up with you and Master Kenobi, and I want to be able to help protect my friends." He said.

Anakin grinned, and raised an eyebrow at that last comment. "Hmm, your friends… or are you wanting to be there for Obi-Wan's Padawan?" He asked, recalling how they'd found the two asleep in the training room.

Gant went a bit wide eyed, and his face grew a bit red. "I-well, Kittani is my friend Master! Of course I want to look out for her!" He said, explaining through his embarrassment. Anakin just nodded.

"I understand that desire Gant, and I'm glad that you're dedicated to your friends. I know you and Kittani will look out for each other, just as I and Obi-Wan do." Anakin said, saving his padawan from any more embarrassment. In truth though, he was proud of Gant.

"Master Anakin, oh, Master Anakin, here you are!" C-3PO said from the catwalk above them. "Mistress Padme asked me to come and collect you, she said that we are nearing Chandrilla." The protocol droid said.

"Thanks, 3PO I'll be up there in a moment."

"Of course, Master Ani, I have already prepared disguises for you, your Padawan, and Mistress Padme per her order." The droid said as he retreated into the upper area of the ship.

Anakin nodded, taking a breath, so this was it. He nodded to Gant, "Well, let's get up to the pilot cabin. You're going to be bringing us in. Rex, go ahead and get the boys ready. You'll be coming with us, but I want a rapid response team ready to go just in case. We don't know where the Empire could have eyes and ears."

"Yes, General." Rex replied with a nod as Anakin started up the steps, followed by Gant.

Anakin smiled some and kissed Padme on the forehead once he got to the pilots cabin. "How're you feeling, angel?" He asked as he eased into the seat next to her.

She chuckled in response, "Like a balloon that's about to pop. And nervous, and like I've been kicked in the bladder fifty times in the past hour… but, I will make it Ani." Padme replied, giving him that smile that he always loved. "I'm ready to see if we can meet with Mon, I know she can help, though it may not be much."

"Anything we get will be of help. Chandrilla is a rich world, and a major food producer. Even if its only credits and food, if Mon Mothma can get us any supplies, we'll take them." Anakin said, knowing the importance of both. An army marched on its stomach, and frankly, he wouldn't mind having something that wasn't rations for dinner.

"I'm also hoping she and Bail can work together to start building a network, both to hide and support us." Padme said with a nod. "We can't do this alone."

"And we won't… with time, people will see what Palpatine is really like. Then, we'll be ready." Anakin said with a nod. Although he refused to open up to full blown hatred, there were few other fitting words for Palpatine. He despised the man, for all he'd done to his family. Forcing himself from his thoughts, Anakin took a breath. "Okay Gant, why don't you take the controls and bring us out of Hyper?" He suggested, standing.

His young Padawan nodded, eager to get in the pilot's seat. He did a quick check, just as Anakin had taught him, and, when the time was right, deactivated the hyperdrive, bringing the Twilight II out of hyperspace directly over Chandrilla, the bright green and blue planet partially filling their viewport. That wasn't what caught Anakin's attention though, and he pointed out what had.

"That must be the Chandrillan defense fleet. Or, what was once Chandrilla's fleet." He said. Many of the ships, including the Victory star destroyer that acted as the fleets flagship, had already been or were in the process of being painted a dull gray color, replacing the crimson stripes of the Republic with the color of the Empire. "Looks like the Empire really is consolidating the security fleets into the Navy. Just hold here for now Gant. Padme, do you know how we can get into contact with Mon Mothma?"

"I do, thankfully. Before we learned about the orders, Mon, Bail, myself, and some fellow senators had started forming the Delegation of 2000. We knew we'd need some way to privately communicate without Palpatine knowing. So, we invested in these." She said, removing a small comlink from her vest. "Hush-98 communicators, specially encrypted so we could talk. We should be close enough to get in contact with Mon now." She said, before activating it. There was silence for a moment, before Padme spoke again.

"Mon… it's me. Yes, I'm okay. Look… I'm over Chandrilla, is there somewhere I can meet you? I need help." Anakin listened to Padme talk, unable to hear the other side of the conversation. After a few more moments, he heard Padme give her thanks, and the comlink gave a small beep as it received a transmission. "Here are the coordinates Mon Mothma wants us to land at."

Anakin nodded, "Gant, think you can get us there?"

"Of course Master, with everything that you taught me about landing, I can manage." He said, with a grin. Padme gave Anakin a look.

"Everything? I don't know if that reassures me or worries me." She said, a grin growing on her face as she smiled to Gant. "I'm sure you'll do fine Gant." She added.

Anakin rolled his eyes at that comment, but then smiled some. "You go get ready angel. I'll help guide Gant in." He said, giving her a quick kiss. Padme returned it, then slipped back into the private room he'd put together for her and himself.

Anakin smiled as his Padawan set the freighter down on the designated landing pad. The landing had been a bit rough, and Gant was still stiff at the controls, but he'd brought them in and Anakin hadn't had to take over. That alone made him proud. "Good work Gant. We'll keep working on it, and I'll make sure to let you get more practice in. Do you mind checking over the ship while we talk?" He said as he stood and made for the exit.

"Of course not Master. I'll make sure we're ready."

Padme was already waiting for them down at the exit ramp, alongside Rex. "I'll be ready with the men here Sir." Rex stated.

"I appreciate it, Rex. But I think things will go smooth." He said, wrapping an arm around Padme. "Ready?"

"Yes… I've been worried about Mon Mothma, she was always so outspoken." Padme said as the ramp started to lower. "I only hope she followed my advice. None of the senators can afford to challenge Palpatine right now."

Anakin nodded, and began to walk down the boarding ramp with her. They had landed at a private villa, out on the plains of Chandrilla. The building incorporated nature heavily and had a simple elegance to its design. Standing before them, on the platform, was Mon Mothma. She gave them a brief smile as they exited the ship and motioned to the nearest entrance. "Please, come inside." She then turned and lead them towards the villa itself.

The inside matched the outside of it. The floors were hardwood, the walls a warm cream color, and the furniture looked comfortable. As soon as they were inside and in private, Mon Mothma threw her arms around Padme. "Padme, darling, it's so good to see you safe. The Emperor publicly denounced you. I had feared that the worst had happened." She motioned to the couch. "Here, please, sit, rest." She said.

Padme smiled and eased herself into a chair while Anakin stood by to help, before claiming the one next to hers. "Thank you, Mon, especially for agreeing to meet on such short notice. And I'm frankly surprised he doesn't have a massive bounty on my head." She admitted.

"I'm sure he would if he could, but right now the Senate and people are still in a celebratory mood with the end of the Clone Wars, even as the empire is still focusing on mopping up remaining separatist groups. Plus, your level of popularity is still making people question. Some are saying that you didn't want to overthrow the Emperor like he's claiming, and others are even fearing that you're a hostage for the Jedi. The others and I, of course, know that neither is true."

"Mon… on Palpatine, this goes so much deeper than just him seizing control of the Republic. We fear now that he orchestrated the entire war."

Anakin's fists tightened into the synthleather of the chair he was sitting in, and he forced himself to not damage it with his prosthetic. "Palpatine wasn't just working for the Sith… Palpatine was the Sith." He explained. "Maul, Dooku, Ventress… he was over all of them. He's been the mastermind behind the Clone Wars, and he was controlling both sides of it to grant himself power." He explained solemnly and could feel the small spike of anger around the room, even from Rex. Seemed he was far from the only one with strong feelings towards Sidious.

Mon Mothma was silent for a long moment. "I have to act against him. Along with the other senators. This man isn't just responsible for crimes against the Republic… he's committed crimes against the entire Galaxy. I won't stand for it." Mothma said firmly.

Padme was just as firm in her counter. "No, Mon. You can't. Palpatine has too many senators in his pocket, and the blind support of too many people. To counter him like this, even if you did have a few others in support, would be political suicide. You will have to do like I explained. In the Senate, for as long as you can, you have to play Palpatine's gain and act like you support him."

Mon Mothma shook her head, "No, I can't Padme. I cannot stand by and let him make a mockery of the Senate… I won't be his puppet anymore."

"You have to Mon… as much as I hate it too, it is the only way to maintain any kind of influence. In the Senate you can still minorly oppose him and stay up to date. If you go against him, they will oust you, and Palpatine will make sure you aren't a problem ever again… he will have you assassinated and make it look like an accident." Anakin could tell how determined Padme was, but he could also see the headstrongness in Mon Mothma. No wonder his wife looked up to her so, they were similar.

"Padme, I refuse to stand by while democracy is killed in the very place where it is supposed to thrive! I can't stand by and watch him damn the galaxy to a life of tyranny and fear!" Mon countered.

Padme nodded, "And I won't ask you to Mon… but I am asking you to consider other ways of resisting Palpatine. More clandestine little ways. Just like I'd said. We aren't just hiding away. We came across a Jedi Master who's troops were loyal to him." Padme stated.

Anakin jumped in for a bit to help his wife. "We encountered Master Rahm Kota. He built his own military unit for the Clone Wars instead of taking control of a clone Battalion or Legion. Even selected his own ship crew. This meant that once Order 66 happened, they were able to escape with their Venator. We've been using it to fight."

Mon Mothma stared at them for a second, then nodded. "I see… so you have assembled at least a small fighting force. What do you plan to do with it?" She asked.

"For now we've conducted a small raid or two, and we've been working to rescue more Jedi… but, not much else. We're in no position to actually launch a major strike against the Empire. Nor do we want to try. We can't make repairs to our ships beyond the basics, we're heavily outgunned, and we're carrying what remains of the Jedi order. For now, we are in no position to heavily act against the Empire."

She gave them a sympathetic nod in understanding. "Is there anyone else helping you? What can I do to help?"

"Bail is the only other person we've had major contact with. He's been a major help, and recently helped us carry out a raid on a prison transport full of refugees. Beyond that, you're the first person we've really spoken to about aiding us. I know Chandrilla does not have much in the way of military hardware or ships… but you could provide us with things we will need. Namely Credits and food supplies." Padme explained.

Anakin nodded, "We're considering other ways to get military hardware, but, we could have the Open Circle fleet at our disposal and it won't mean anything if we can't get food to feed our troops and credits to buy weapons and supplies to maintain ourselves. Right now, we are subsisting off the Liberations existing stores, more than enough to last us well over a year, but that won't last forever, and it's something we needed to address sooner rather than later." He added.

A look of thought crossed over the Chandrillan Senator's face before she nodded. "I can get you supplies to be sure. Chandrilla is producing a huge amount of food and has been for the clone wars, both for military use and to aid other planets, but now that the war is over and trade is opening back up, we've started scaling back to our usual levels. With this, I can still keep them at slightly higher levels and say the food will be going out to help rebuild. Which, of course, most of it will… but I think I can arrange a decent amount for you as well." She explained. "You said Bail was aiding you? He took over the Refugee Relief Program you were working on Padme, so I can make the food as a donation to that, and he can easily get it into your hands." She explained. "I can do much the same with the credits as well." She said.

Anakin looked to Padme with a nod, this would help them a lot. The credits would mean more munitions, material, and supplies for them to use. "We'd be honored to take whatever you can get us Mon. If possible, we will repay you some day." He admitted.

"You can repay myself and Chandrilla by restoring the Republic." She said, giving them a smile. "I have a few influential contacts among the agricultural producers here on Chandrilla, as well as many other wealthy members of society here and elsewhere who I know are not enthused with the implications of Palpatine's new order. I doubt it'll be much… but the credits they provide could help you get started and, more importantly, stay alive." She added.

Padme nodded, "Thank you Mon, this will help us to start obtaining what we'll need, so someday, when the galaxy is ready, we can fight back against the Empire."

It was then that the Chandrillan Senator's smile widened some. "Oh, who said this was all I could provide you with?" She said, looking to one of her service droids. "Please, bring me my personal data pad, and some refreshments." The droid nodded and then took off.

"Palpatine's Moffs have done more than undermine the Senate, they've taken absolute control of military forces across the Galaxy. Not just the Imperial Navy, but also the planetary security forces and even the forces for entire systems and sectors. This is no less true here on Chandrilla. Grand Moff Kohl Seerdon is in control of this section of space, and under Palpatine's order has began folding Chandrilla's defense fleet into the Imperial Navy. While the Empire is bringing much of our fleet under its control, it isn't dong so for all of it. Many of the more out of date ships and surplus from the Clone Wars is going to be scrapped." She explained as the droid returned and handed her the data pad before passing each of them some water.

"This is the man who Seerdon originally replaced as the admiral of the Chandrillan fleet, Hiram Drayson. Palpatine himself ordered his dismissal and selected Seerdon, overruling Chandrilla's own desires during the clone wars. If he can be convinced to join you, I feel that he might know of some way to get you some ships… possibly even the crew for them." She said. "Chandrillan's are naturally outspoken." She grinned. "And much of our fleet made their displeasure with him being replaced known."

Padme nodded in understanding, "I see… do you think you could contact him? Maybe bring him here to meet with us?"

Mon Mothma nodded, "I do. I've spoken with him quite a few times before. If I call and tell him it is urgent… he will come." She explained. "It will take a bit of time to set up this meeting, but I think I can get him to meet with us by this evening. Until that time, you're more than welcome to stay here and rest. I can have my service droid, LEP-77, can show you to some of the guest rooms." She said, smiling.

"I think we'd both appreciate that, as well as my Padawan." Anakin said. "As much as I love the Twlight II, she's no luxury ship. It'll be nice to freshen up." He said.

"I am sure, and of course the same for Padme. If you would like, I can have a medical droid sent over to check on your pregnancy." Mon Mothma said.

Padme smiled, "Well, I had a checkup just before we left the star destroyer… but an extra one might not hurt." She commented.

"I wouldn't mind it either honey. The ship hasn't exactly been the best of conditions for you. Just to be safe." He implored, still protective over her, although never to the point he had been.

"Alright then, it's settled. You two go rest. I will get in contact with Drayson." Mon stated, standing. "My droids will show you to the rooms. Feel free to allow your personal guards and your Padawan to come in as well." She explained.

Anakin smiled and flopped back onto the bed, the tips of his hair still wet from his visit to the fresher. Padme was already there, resting as he'd let her have the first shower. Anakin slid up to where she was sitting, and placed a kiss to her forehead. "How're you feeling, honey?" He asked as she looked over the holopad Mon Mothma had provided them with.

She smiled, setting it down. "I'm doing okay. Here, let me see your hand." She said. Anakin offered his non-prosthetic hand to her, and Padme guided it down to her stomach. After a moment, Anakin's eyes lit up with joy as he felt the occasional movement. Padme smiled wider. "These two have been getting active lately. I think they're wanting out." She said, grinning.

"Well, I can't say that I disagree with them myself." He said, chuckling. Ever since the nightmares had stopped, he was more excited than ever to meet his children. He still worried, but, so far every checkup they'd had, and he'd gone to plenty of them with her, had marked Padme with a clean bill of health. This included the one Padme had been given earlier. With the force no longer giving him any warnings, he trusted that she would be okay, and that he would be there with her.

A kiss pulled him from his thoughts. "Come back to me Ani, I can tell when your thoughts start drifting." She chuckled. "What was on your mind?"

He sighed some, "Just… eager to see them. My mind drifted to the nightmares I used to have for a moment, but… I know you'll be okay." He said, smiling softly.

Padme reached up, gently brushing her thumb along his cheek. "Anakin, nothing… and I mean nothing, is going to take you from me for a very long time. Especially if I have anything to say about it. And nothing is going to take the kids from us. Especially not Sidious. I know we'll stop him, eventually." She reaffirmed, staring into his eyes with that confidence that she always seemed to carry.

"Thank you Padme… I know, I just wish we'd stopped him sooner."

"As do I… but Ani, no one could have predicted he was a Sith. We had no clues to it. No signs. You, Master Yoda, Obi-Wan… so many members of the Jedi Order sat within feet of Palpatine, and sometimes closer, and never once felt an inkling of the force or the dark side from him. We knew he was corrupt… but to know that he was behind all of this, no. Not after the trust I placed in him." She said.

"I know… he's a master of deception. And I know we'll get him. I will make this galaxy safe from him." He said.

"I know you will, just know that you don't have to and won't be doing it alone." She stated. "You have friends, and family, with you." She smiled.

Anakin couldn't help the grin that crossed his face. "I know… and I wouldn't want it any other way." He said, wrapping his arms around her and letting her lean against him. "After all, I have an angel in my life." He said, causing her to respond with a chuckle and a shake of her head.

"You're still that little boy on Tatooine who loved to Pod Race, aren't you?"

Anakin grinned, "What can I say, it was true then, and even more so now. You're my angel." He murmured, taking a moment to close his eyes and rest as he held her. This was what he wanted in life. This peace. Some day he hoped to live out his days with her on Naboo, up in the lake country.

A panicked knocking at their door snapped Anakin from his relaxation. "Master, Padme! Y… you both need to come see this!" Gant shouted.

Anakin looked to Padme, who climbed from the bed as quickly as she could. Anakin followed closely behind, helping her back down to the living room area where they could hear a holonet channel being played. Mon Mothma was gathered around, as was Rex and now Gant.

"This is a live feed being broadcast across the holonet from Ghorman, they're protesting the increases in taxes the Empire has instituted." Mothma explained. The holonet feed showed protestors shouting out about the high taxes, gathered around a landing zone. Storm troopers were in the area, but so far didn't seem inclined to act.

"Apparently people are saying that Moff Tarkin is on his way to collect the taxes. He's supposed to land at this pad, they're trying to prevent him from doing so as a form of protest." Mon Mothma added in.

Anakin watched as a small ship, not all that different from the stealth ship Anakin had piloted against Trench, descended into the air over the landing pad, escorted by four TIE fighters. The ship settled into a hovering position for a moment as its landing gear dropped. Anakin watched in horror as the ship quickly landed directly on the crowd, crushing them. The protestors shouts changed to screams of horror as this happened, and for a moment the feed blurred as the recorder turned to run. After a moment, it was cut. Mon Mothma had a hand over her mouth, eyes wide, and Anakin could sense the horror rolling off of Padme as she just stared at the screen.

"T…that was Tarkin's personal ship, the Carrion Spike." Mon Mothma finally managed to utter. "T… the Emperor gifted it to him as a reward for his service in the Clone Wars. He, he just had it land on them."

Anakin couldn't help the surge of anger that spiked in him as he fought to suppress it. He could feel it radiate out, not just from those around him, but from across the galaxy, people who had seen this cried out in anger or horror. "T…that bastard! He's the one who pushed for Ahsoka to receive the death penalty. Now he's committing atrocities." Anakin growled out.

"We can't let this stand." Mothma said. "I… the Empire can't hide this… people won't let them." She said.

"Palpatine doesn't have to hide it. He has enough control that it doesn't matter." Padme said. "But it does… unfortunately, help our cause. People will flock to someone willing to stand against tyranny like this." She added as she put a hand over Anakin's. Anakin took a slow breath, calming himself some.

"I agree… and I know that Admiral Drayson will as well. He should be here soon." Mon Mothma said. It was then that Anakin saw Padme's eyes widen, a sign he knew meant she had an idea.

"Mon, there's something else I need to show you… from our time out in space." She said. "R2, could you come over here?" The little droid let out a series of beeps and obediently did so. "R2, play holorecording 774541."

After a moment, a hologram was produced by the small droid of a clone troopers helmet cam. "This was filmed from the helmet cameras of Commander Cody and Captain Rex, two clone troopers under Anakin and Obi-Wan." She explained, as the video played, it showed a recording of the prison ship raid. Of the state of the prisoners. "These prisoners were refugee's on Coruscant who kept asking and protesting for help. Instead of doing so, Palpatine had them all arrested. The prison ship was bound for Kessel." She finished.

Anakin nodded, "The Empire isn't above slavery either. We rescued these prisoners and got them to safety." He explained.

Mon Mothma's mouth became a thin line. "I… I can't let him keep doing this. I have to admonish him publicly… at least for what has happened at Ghorman." She said. "I'm sorry Padme, but you can't change my mind on this." She cut off Padme, who had been about to speak.

Beside him, Anakin heard Padme's sigh. "I understand Mon… I guess I wouldn't be able to either… just, please, be careful. Don't push him too far." She said.

"I will, Padme, but I can only handle so much." She said, shaking her head. "I will do anything I can to help you as well. Tell me, is there anyone else you've considered contacting?" She asked.

Anakin nodded, "We do have a few we've considered. I'd personally hoped to get in contact with Admiral Yularen… he knew of the plan to arrest Palpatine, but he didn't sell us out… I'm hoping things like this might be enough to sway him."

Padme nodded beside him, "That'll be tough to achieve though. For now, we're hoping to get in contact with some of the other senators. Specifically I'd like to contact Garm Bel Iblis and Senator Chuchi for further support." She explained. Mon Mothma nodded.

"Of course, that makes sense. I'll see what I can do as well. I haven't had contact with Senator Chuchi… with the Imperial withdrawl… many of the outer rim worlds like Pantora have been cut off from the Empire and lost their seat in the new Imperial senate."

"Madame Mothma, your guest, Admiral Drayson, has arrived and is awaiting you in the lobby." A droid said as it entered.

"Ah, thank you. Please, escort him here." She said. The droid disappeared for a few moments before returning with what Anakin instantly recognized as a military man. The way he carried himself, his short hair, it wasn't hard to figure out.

"Senator Mothma, to what do I owe the pleasure?" He asked, before turning his attention to Anakin and Padme.

"Hiram, it's good to see you as well." She said, giving a brief smile. "I wish it were under better circumstances. Admiral Drayson, this is Senator Padme Amidala, of Naboo, and Master Skywalker."

That seemed to get the Admiral's attention as he turned to them. "As in the Amidala and Skywalker that Palpatine has declared traitors to the Republic…" He said, not as a question.

"Indeed, and currently some of the only people daring enough to resist Palpatine and his Empire. The same Empire that just did this." She said, playing back the holo video from Ghorman."

The Admiral watched the video for a time before shaking his head, "They'll let the entire galaxy burn." He said. "Something tells me that with all this, you've not called me here for a friendly chat, have you Senator? I know business when I see it." He said, giving a brief smile.

"No, we haven't." Padme spoke up suddenly. "We know Palpatine forced you out of your position, and we know more than a few men in the Chandrillan defense force were loyal to you thanks to what Mon has told us. We'll be honest with you Admiral… if we're going to fight Palpatine, we need ships, starfighters, and men to do it with." She explained. "We were hoping you would be willing to help us try and stop the devastation that man seems set on spreading."

There was a long pause as the man seemed to think it over. Anakin knew they were asking a lot of him. This man had a life of his own, possibly a family, and they were asking him to give up so much. After a moment, the man let out a breath and spoke.

"I understand. Hell… Seerdon has steadily been putting more and more pressure on my shipping company ever since he became Moff. He has held a grudge ever since parts of the fleet spoke out against his appointment and in my favor. Sooner or later… he plans to ruin me. So. I'll join." He started. "I see why you contacted me now. I do keep in contact with some of the officers that were under me, especially those that I mentored. I know more than a few aren't happy with what's about to happen. Some are turning in their personal resignations; others are being forced into an early 'retirement' situation as the fleet becomes part of the Imperial Navy."

"Do you think they'd join us?" Padme asked.

"I can't guarantee all would, but I know some are exceptionally upset about the Empire. They firmly believed in the Republic and democracy. These are the ones I'll speak to. We're in luck too. The Empire just ordered three ships decommissioned recently. One of our older dreadnaught heavy cruisers and two CR-90 corvettes. In addition, if the cruiser is still outfitted with its clone wars armament, then it's 12 V-Wing escorts will be going to the scrap with it. I know the captains of all three, and I know they'll be using skeleton crews to get the ships to the nearest breaker."

Anakin nodded in understanding, hoping this deal would come through. "And what of the remaining crew?" He asked.

"I think they'd be willing to join as well, at least, most of them. The issue is some of these men have families. Families I have no doubt the Empire would enact reprisals against if they fled like this and rebelled. With my ships, we could gather up the rest of the crew and any families who wish to join us." He said. "Once the ships are away from Chandrilla, we can go from there. I'll need some time to arrange things though."

Anakin was already in agreement, they wanted to keep people safe, not get more hurt. "I understand, and I think that's a fair plan. I can pilot the Twilight to help with moving people to safely. But what of your company? Can't it still survive even if you aren't there?" He asked.

"It might, but it wouldn't be mine. As soon as Seerdon catches wind that I've left, he'll claim it for the Empire… he's already planning to with me there. Might as well deny him some of my best ships and my funds." He grinned. "And, with all due respect General, my men and I will need to do this on our own. I know you're the kind to lead from the front… but, we need to do this ourselves. We can't rely on the Jedi for every fight, and I have faith in my men."

Anakin was silent for a long moment as he thought over what the Admiral has said. Normally, he would want to be involved, but, he knew what the Admiral was saying held some truth as well. The galaxy, the rebel group, they couldn't always rely on Jedi aid, they had to know they could fight the Empire without Jedi. "I understand admiral. I trust the capabilities of you and your men." He said.

"Take the time you need, Admiral, we'll be waiting and ready." Padme said with a nod, she offered her hand to the Admiral. "And sir, welcome to what we hope will someday restore the Republic."

The admiral returned the handshake and nodded, "I look forward to that day, until then, I'll be satisfied with upsetting the Empire." He said.

Anakin moved to block as his Padawan came at him again with a quick jab, which he parried. The private exercise gym of Mon Mothma's estate made a perfect dueling space once cleared, and so long as they were careful. They'd used it as a training bay for the past three days since their arrival. Anakin came at his Padawan, holding back to an appropriate level to train Gant and give him experience, instead of just going all out.

Gant brought his saber up to block the leaping strike Anakin used. Anakin rotated to the side, letting a thrust bypass him as he pushed Gant's saber down with his own. His padawan withdrew. Anakin blocked a strike to his side as Gant spun into a new attack. Anakin pushed forward on Gant, forcing him to defend. He smiled as his padawan managed to hold on, albeit barely.

"That's it Gant, keep going." Anakin said as Gant finally broke Anakin's assault and countered with an upward slice, followed quickly by an attack to the side. Anakin blocked both, their lightsabers hissing for a moment in the blade lock. "You're doing well, my Padawan." He said, before reversing and breaking the lock, then with a quick maneuver, he worked his way inside his Padawan's blade, the tip of his saber pointed to his Padawans chest. The duel had ended.

"You still have a ways to go Gant, but you're following what I've taught you well." He said as he extinguished his lightsaber and then adjusted the blades power out of training mode. "With time, I know you will become an amazing duelist. However, for now, you need to remember to not overextend and leave yourself open. If you give a true opponent any opening to exploit, they will… and it was a similar mistake, as well as blind overconfidence, that taught me that lesson against Dooku." He admitted.

"Thank you, Master." Gant said, giving a small smile. "Someday I will be able to keep up with you at full force." He said.

Anakin grinned, "I know you will Gant, you're already keeping up with me some. Like I said on the ship… you're already a big help to me Gant. You're already keeping pace on some level, and your skill will keep growing with time." He said, squeezing his padawans shoulder. "You've been a help to me as well, on the field and in helping me learn just as much as I teach."

Gant smiled again, "I'm glad I can be master. You're a good teacher." He said, before grinning. "And someday, I will best you in a duel."

Anakin chuckled some, "We'll see Gant, we'll see."

"Master Anakin. Mistress Padme requests that you and young Gant please come upstairs now. Mr. Drayson has contacted them." C-3PO said.

Anakin nodded, "Thank's 3PO, we'll be right up." He said, clipping his light saber to his belt. Gant quickly did the same. Anakin hurried upstairs to the living room to see Mon Mothma and Padme already waiting around a holo of Admiral Drayson. Anakin settled in next to his wife.

"Admiral Drayson, good to see you're well. I take it you're ready to begin?" He started things off.

The General nodded, "Yes, we are. I've gathered a group of men who are willing to do what we need." He said. "The three target ships are already slipping their docks as scheduled. My pilots and I are ready to take off with families and the other crews." He said. "If you could, meet us at the rendezvous point. We'll need the coordinates from you after all." He said.

"Understood Admiral. We'll be taking off as well shortly." Anakin said.

"Good, we'll meet you there." The admiral said with a nod before the transmission was cut.

Anakin sighed, "Well, as much as I hate to leave your wonderful home Senator Mon Mothma. I think we'll have to." He said, to which Padme nodded.

"We do. We can't stop here… this is only the beginning." She said. "Thank you so much Mon, for your help and hospitality."

Mon Mothma smiled some, "Padme, you should know that I wouldn't just sit by… this is beyond all of us… we're going to free the galaxy from his clutches some day. I wouldn't be able to live with my own conscious if I didn't help return democracy to the galaxy." She said, to which Anakin nodded along with Padme.

"Thank you, we will find some way to get in contact with you Mon Mothma. But for now, we have to bide our time and focus on doing what we can." He said as he stood, helping Padme up as well. They'd kept all but the basics on the ship, and it seemed 3PO had already packed everything up.

"Rex and his men are already prepping the ship." Padme explained. Anakin nodded.

"Then we best be going. We've still got a lot of work to do." He said, with a brief, but tired, smile on his face.

"That we do. Good luck Mon… and remember, don't challenge Palpatine too much… he has more than enough ways to remove you and anyone else. Play along, please." Padme implored her fellow senator.

"I will try Padme… but I make no promises… not with what he's doing." She said.

Padme let out a sigh, but nodded, "Okay, I understand. Goodbye, Mon."

"Goodbye, Padme, and you be careful too."

"We will." Padme said as they boarded the ramp onto the Twlight II. Anakin turned back and gave a nod as Gant reached over and pressed the door controls, closing it once the droids were back on board. Their business on Chandrilla was finished, and rallying their new ships to get to the fleet wouldn't take long. Anakin took a breath, they'd done it… it was a small victory, but they'd gained a powerful ally.

"Well, I guess we need to go link up with the fleet." He said as they headed up to the cockpit. "And then, next stop?"

Padme smiled, "Corellia."

Also, just in case you're wondering. They didn't just spirit 16,000 crew for the dreadnought class heavy cruiser off world. I'll go ahead and admit that I won't use that number. To me it's absurd that a 600 meter cruiser has a crew on the level of Star Destroyers, regardless of its age. Nevermind that there are ships of a similar and much older age of the same size, even bigger, who don't have such a high crew requirement. Instead, I'm making it that the dreadnought classes have about 2000 crew.

Anyways, I hope you guys all enjoyed, and I'll see you with the next one. Also, please stay safe out there everyone. May the Force be with you all.