Coruscant – Chancellor's Private Sanctum
22BBY Six Months After the Liberation of Kadavo
The galaxy had changed in six months.
The Eternal Alliance, under Cain's leadership, had liberated numerous worlds from the grip of slavery. Stories of the Jadaii and Paladins, alongside their clone allies, spread across the stars. Anakin Skywalker, Cain, and Seris became symbols of hope, their deeds inspiring countless systems to join the cause.
But in the heart of Coruscant, within the dimly lit chambers of the Chancellor's private sanctum, a different narrative unfolded.
Chancellor Palpatine sat at the head of a long obsidian table, his fingers steepled beneath his chin. To his right stood Mas Amedda, ever the loyal aide, and to his left, the enigmatic Sly Moore.
"Six months," Palpatine began, his voice smooth as silk. "Six months, and the galaxy sings praises of Cain and his Eternal Alliance."
Mas Amedda shifted uncomfortably. "Their influence grows daily, my lord. Systems once loyal to the Republic now look to them for guidance."
Sly Moore's pale eyes narrowed. "Our intelligence reports indicate that Cain's Order, the Eternal Dawn, is gaining traction even within our own ranks."
Palpatine chuckled softly. "Let them have their moment. Every rising star casts a shadow. And in shadows, we thrive."
Sly Moore leaned forward. "There are rumors, my lord. Whispers of a Force nexus, a place of immense power. Our agents have yet to pinpoint its location, but the implications are... significant."
Palpatine's eyes gleamed. "Ah, the Force nexus. A convergence of power that could tip the scales. But even more intriguing are the murmurs of the Star Forge."
Mas Amedda's brow furrowed. "The ancient Rakatan construct? I thought it was a myth."
Palpatine's smile widened. "Myths often hold truths, Mas Amedda. The Star Forge could grant us the means to create an unstoppable fleet, to reclaim control over the galaxy."
A soft chime echoed through the chamber. The doors opened, revealing a figure cloaked in darkness. He moved with purpose, his presence commanding.
He knelt before Palpatine. "Master."
Palpatine rose, placing a hand on the figure's shoulder. "Rise, Darth Murk."
The man stood, revealing a face both familiar and changed. It was Derren, once a promising Jedi, now twisted by the dark side.
"Your training progresses well," Palpatine said. "The cultists and assassins under your command are shaping into formidable tools."
Darth Murk nodded. "They are ready, my lord. Ready to strike when you command." Palpatine turned to his aides. "With the Eternal Alliance distracted by their crusade, we shall move in silence. When the time is right, we will reclaim what is ours.