What If The Force Revived Qui-Gon and Sent Him Back to Episode I

Darth furest rise. [music] What if the force revived Qui-Gon and sent him back to episode 1? Let's explore the depths of it in the video. Qui-Gon Jyn's eyes snap open. The ceiling above him is metallic, unfamiliar, yet somehow known. His chest rises and falls with shallow breaths as panic threatens to claw its way up his throat. He blinks, trying to orient himself, trying to understand. The hum of a ship's engines vibrate through the walls. The smell of recycled air fills his nostrils. This is wrong. He sits up slowly, his hand instinctively reaching for his lightsaber. It's there, clipped to his belt. His robes are intact. No blood, no wound, but there should be. He remembers the burning agony, the red blade piercing through his torso, the strength leaving his body as he collapsed the cold floor of the thie generator room. He remembers Obi-Wan's face twisted in anguish and rage. He remembers his Padawan's triumph. The Sith Lord cut in two and [music] falling into the abyss. He remembers dying. Master Qui-Gon's head turns sharply. Obi-Wan Kenobi stands in the doorway, young and whole, his Padawan braid still hanging over his shoulder. The young man's expression shows concern. Nothing more. No [music] grief. No haunted look of someone who watched his master die. >> Are you all right? You look pale. Qui-Gon's mind races. He was dead. He knows he was dead. He felt his connection to the force slip away. Felt the living world fade. But now he's here, breathing, alive. His hand tremble slightly as he lowers it from his lightsaber. The memory comes flooding back. Not just of death, but before. This ship. This moment. They're on approach to the Trade Federation flagship. The realization hits him like a physical blow. The Force has sent him back. It's the only explanation that makes any sense. The living force and its infinite wisdom has given him another chance. But why? What must he prevent? What disaster looms so large that the Force itself would bend the rules of life and death? Obi-Wan, we need to change course immediately. Tell the pilots to set course for Naboo's surface. Master, we're scheduled to meet with the Trade Federation representatives. The Chancellor himself. The meeting is a trap. The Trade Federation means to kill us, or at least delay us while they complete their invasion. We must reach the planet's surface and evacuate the Queen. How could you possibly know that, Master? With respect, we have our orders. The Chancellor The Chancellor has sent us into danger unknowingly. Obi-Wan, I have felt a tremor in the Force, stronger than anything I've experienced before. The living force has shown me what we must do. Trust me. The young Jedi searches his master's face, and Qui-Gon can see the internal struggle. Obi-Wan has always been more by the book than him, more trusting of authority and protocol, but he's also learning to trust Qui-Gon's instincts, even when they defy conventional wisdom. Finally, Obi-Wan nods. I'll inform the pilots. The Naboo Royal Starship sits gleaming on the landing platform, its chromium surface reflecting the afternoon sun. Queen Amadala, still in her elaborate throne room makeup and gown, [music] stares at Qui-Gon with barely concealed skepticism. >> You want us to evacuate Naboo, based on a feeling. >> Based on intelligence that an attack is imminent, your highness, the Trade Federation fleet in orbit is not here for negotiations. They mean to invade, and when they do, you will be their primary target. If they capture you, they can force you to sign their treaty and legitimize their occupation. The Jedi are supposed to be ambassadors, not prophets. How do you know any of this? Because the Force has revealed it to me. And because if I'm wrong, you lose nothing but a day's travel. But if I'm right, you keep your freedom and possibly your lives." The queen exchanges glances with her handmaidaidens and advisers. The silence stretches for several heartbeats. Then she rises from her throne. And even in this moment of crisis, her movements are perfectly controlled. We will trust in the Force, Master Jedi. Prepare the ship for departure. >> They're barely clear of Niboo's atmosphere when the sensors light up. >> Multiple contacts. Trade Federation battleships. They're moving into attack formation over the planet. >> Quagon stands behind the pilot seat. Obi-Wan at his side. Through the viewport, they can see the massive droid control ship and its escorts begin their descent toward Naboo's major cities. The invasion has begun exactly as it would have in the timeline he remembers. But this time, the queen is safe. Set course for Coruscant. Master, I've known you to have strong instincts before, but this How did you know? >> Qui-Gon doesn't answer immediately. How can he explain something he barely understands himself? Instead, he places a hand on his former Padawan's shoulder. >> The Force works in mysterious ways, my old friend. Sometimes it grants us knowledge we cannot explain, only accept and act upon. As the stars stretch into hyperspace, Quagon closes his eyes and reaches out into the Force. He can feel it flowing through him, stronger and clearer than ever before. The Jedi Temple rises before them, its spires reaching toward Coruscant's perpetual sunset. Qui-Gon strides through the familiar corridors with purpose. Obi-Wan matching his pace. They've left Queen Amadala with Chancellor Valor Orum, who has promised to bring the invasion before the Senate immediately, but Qui-Gon has other business first. Master Yoda, I formally recommend that Obi-Wan Kenobi be granted the rank of Jedi Knight. He has completed his trials and proven himself more than ready. The assembled council members exchange glances. Mace window leans forward, his expression thoughtful. >> Sudden this request is always said you have. That more training young Kenobi needed. >> I was wrong. I have held him back out of my own attachment, my own desire to continue teaching. But he is ready. More than ready. He has been for some time. Obi-Wan looks stunned, his mouth opening as if to protest, but no words come out. Your Padawan has shown exceptional skill and dedication. If you believe he is ready, Master Jin, then we are inclined to agree. We will convene a full council to make it official. Thank you, masters. There is something else I must attend to. With your permission, go. You may speak with you later. We will. Qui-Gon finds Count Dooku in the temple archives, studying a holocron with the intense focus that has always characterized his former master. The tall, elegant Jedi looks up as Qui-Gon approaches, surprise flickering across his aristocratic features. >> Qui-Gon, I heard you returned from Naboo earlier than expected. Successful negotiations with the Trade Federation, I assume. >> There were no negotiations. Master, I need to speak with you urgently. But first, you must accompany me to Master Yoda. He needs to hear this as well. >> This son's grave. >> It is perhaps the gravest matter the Jedi Order has faced in a thousand years. The former Master and apprentice walk together through the temple, their footsteps echoing on polished stone. Dooku doesn't press for details, trusting that Qui-Gon will explain when the time is right. They find Yoda in his meditation chamber, the dimminionive Jedi Master sitting in contemplative silence. Master Yoda, I apologize for the interruption, but I must speak with you both about something the forest has revealed to me. Revealed to you? What has been? I felt a virgin in the forest. I cannot fully explain how or why, but I know with absolute certainty that we must travel to Tatooine. What we will find there will either save the Jedi Order or doom it. I need you both to come with me. >> Tatooine? That desert wasteland and hot space. Qui-Gon, what could possibly be? >> I know this sounds strange. I know I'm asking you to trust me on faith alone, but master, you taught me to listen to the living force above all else. And Master Yoda, you've always said that the Force guides those who truly listen. I am listening now, and it is screaming at me that we must do this. The two masters exchange a long look. Finally, Yoda nods slowly. >> Strong in the living force you have always been, Quagon. If certain you are that the Force wields this, then trust you. I must. >> You are always the most frustratingly intuitive student I ever trained. Very well. When do we leave? >> Immediately. The descent through Tatooine's atmosphere is rough. The ship buffeted by thermals rising from the desert below. As they approach the settlement of Mos Espa, both Yoda and Dooku stiffen in their seats. You feel it? >> Impossible to miss. It is strong. This presence is unlike anything I have felt. >> I sense it, too. Raw, untamed power. How could something this strong exist without the order knowing about it? Because he's a slave, hidden in plain sight in the outer rim where the Jedi rarely venture. They land in one of Maspa's public hangers and make [music] their way into the city. The twin sons beat down mercilessly, and even through their Jedi robes, the three masters can feel the scorching heat. Qui-Gon leads them with certainty, following the pole in the force that grows stronger with each step. It leads them to a small junk shop, cluttered with spare parts and salvaged technology. A toidarian flutters behind the counter, counting credits. We're looking for parts. Perhaps someone to help us. The torion looks them over with shrewd eyes. >> Jedi, don't get many of your kind out here. What do you need? >> Before Qui-Gon can answer, a small figure emerges from the back of the shop, carrying a heavy crate that should be too large for a child his size to lift. The boy has tusled brown hair and bright blue eyes that seem to hold far more intelligence than his apparent age would suggest. The moment Anakin Skywalker enters the room, the Force itself seems to resonate. All three Jedi masters feel it. A presence so powerful, so pure that it takes their breath away. Yoda's eyes widen. Dooku actually takes a step back, his hand gripping his lightsaber hilt reflexively. Put those parts in the back and get back to work on that pod engine. We have customers. >> Yes, W. >> The boy glances at the three Jedi with open curiosity before disappearing into the back room. Qui-Gon approaches the counter, keeping his voice casual. That boy, how long has he worked for you? Anakin his whole life practically him and his mother slaves both of them got them cheap but the boys good with tech hands like a droid instincts like well like something special indeed. They browse the shop for the next few hours occasionally making small talk with water while keeping an eye on Anakin as he works. The boy moves with unconscious grace, his hands dancing over machinery with an intuition that goes far beyond a mere skill. He's using the force without even knowing it, letting it guide his actions. As the twin suns begin to set, casting long shadows across Mos Espa, Watt finally dismisses Anakin for the day. The boy spots the three Jedi still in the shop and his face lights up. >> You're still here? Are you travelers? I don't see many Jedi in Mosaspa. >> You know what we are? >> Of course. the robes, the bearing, and you feel different than other people, like you're more there, like you take up more space than just your bodies. >> The three masters exchange glances, untrained, and the boy already perceives force presence. >> Your name, young one? What is it? >> Anakin Skywalker. Sir, are you a Jedi Master? You seem very important. [laughter] >> Important, perhaps? Old? Certainly. Strong in the force you are, young Skywalker. Feel it, do you? >> You mean that feeling I sometimes get? Like how I know things before they happen. Like when I'm building or racing and my hands just know what to do. >> Exactly that. The Force is strong with you, Anakin. Stronger than in most, even among Jedi. >> A rumble of thunder echoes across the desert. Qui-Gon glances out the window and sees dark clouds gathering on the horizon. A sandstorm approaching. A storm's coming. A big one. You should come with me. My mom and I have a place nearby. It's not much, but it's better than being caught out here. >> We would be honored, Anakin. Thank you. The Skywalker Hvel is small, but surprisingly tidy, a testament to Shme Skywalker's efforts to maintain dignity despite their circumstances. She greets them at the door, her eyes widening slightly at the sight of three Jedi Masters accompanying her son. Anakin, who are your friends? >> Jedi, man. Real Jedi masters. >> Forgive the intrusion, Miss Skywalker. I am Quagon Jin. These are masters Yoda and Dooku. Your son was kind enough to offer us shelter from the storm. >> Any friend of Annis is welcome here. Please sit. It's not much, but I can offer you water and some food. >> As they settle around the small table, the sandstorm begins to howl outside, rattling the windows. Anakin sits next to his mother, watching the Jedi with undisguised fascination. >> Miss Skywalker, we did not come to Tatooine by accident. We sensed something extraordinary in the Force. It led us to your son. >> What do you mean? >> Gifted. Your son is strong in the Force. Stronger than any we have encountered in many generations. With your permission, we would like to perform a simple test. a blood sample to measure his metacloran count. Metaclorans are microscopic life forms that allow us to connect with the force. The higher the count, the stronger the potential. >> If if it won't hurt him. >> Just a small prick, no more painful than a splinter. >> Then yes, you may test him. >> Qui-Gon retrieves a small medical scanner from his pack and takes a sample from Anakin's finger. The boy barely flinches. The scanner processes the sample and when the results appear, Qui-Gon's breath catches. He shows it to Dooku and Yoda. The number reads over 20,000. >> That's That's impossible. That's higher than Master Yoda. Higher than any Jedi in the order. [clears throat] Higher than mine. It is nearly twice even. >> He has no father, does he? >> I carried him. I gave birth to him. I raised him. I can't explain what happened. only that there was no father. >> The three Jedi masters exchange meaningful glances. The prophecy speaks of one who will bring balance to the force born of no father. Could this be him? The chosen one. >> Old the boy is 9 years. Difficult training will be attachments he already has. >> Mace Wendu's voice echoes in Qui-Gon's memory from the timeline he remembers, citing those same concerns. But Qui-Gon knows better. He knows what happens when Anakin is taken from his mother. When the attachment is severed violently rather than managed with wisdom, then we bring them both his mother as well. The attachment exists. Yes. But what if we honor it rather than deny it? If his mother comes to Coruscant, lives near the temple. Anakin can learn to love without fear. He can be balanced. An unconventional approach. But perhaps perhaps that's what's needed for an unconventional situation. Wisdom in this there may be. Fear of loss leads to the dark side. But if no loss there is to fear. >> You want to take us away from here from Tatooine. >> We want to offer Anakin training as a Jedi. And we want to offer you both freedom. You are slaves no longer if you accept our help. Tears well in Shmei's eyes. Anakin looks up at his mother. His expression a mixture of hope and uncertainty. Mom, I want what's best for you, Annie. I always have. >> Then it's settled. First thing tomorrow, we speak with your owner. We will purchase your freedom, both of you. >> Wat's shop smells of grease and ozone. The Tidarion flutters behind his counter, his wings beating rapidly when he sees the three Jedi enter. >> Back again. What can I do for you, Jedi? >> We wish to purchase the freedom of your slaves, Shmei and Anakin Skywalker. Name your price. Oh, freedom don't come cheap, especially for a talented boy like Anakin. He's worth 20 mechanics on his own. >> We have Republic credits. >> Republic credits? Republic credits are not good out here. I need something more real. >> Dooku reaches into his robes and produces a small pouch. He opens it, revealing a handful of precious gems that glitter in the dim light. These are crystals used in lightsaber construction. Each one is worth more than your entire shop. They would more than cover the price of two slaves. Wat's eyes go wide with greed. He reaches for the pouch, but Dooku pulls it back. >> First, the official documentation, their freedom, legally registered. >> Fine, fine. You drive a hard bargain. >> The transaction takes less than an hour. By the time the twin sons reach their zenith, Shmei and Anakin Skywalker are free beings. Their slave chips deactivated and their ownership transferred to themselves. Shmei weeps openly as they leave the shop. Anakin clutching her hand. >> We're really free, man. We can leave Tatooine. >> Yes, Annie. We're really free. >> The journey back to Coruscant takes several days, and Count Dooku spends much of it in contemplation. He stands alone in the ship's observation deck, watching the stars streak past in hyperspace when Qui-Gon joins him. >> You seem troubled, master. I'm thinking about hope. A dangerous thing for a Jedi to feel too strongly. Yet, I find myself feeling it nonetheless. Hope for what? Hope that this boy truly is the chosen one. Hope that he can bring balance to the Force. that he can end the corruption that seeped into every corner of the Republic. Hope that that perhaps the darkness I felt growing can be stopped. >> He pauses, his jaw tightening. >> I have been approached, Quigon, by someone claiming to offer solutions to the Republic's decay. Someone who promised power and change. I I was tempted, more than tempted. I was beginning to consider their offer. Qui-Gon's eyes widen slightly, but he says nothing, letting his former master continue. >> But now, seeing that boy, sensing his potential, perhaps there's another way, a better way. I think I think I need to sever that contact, that relationship, before it leads me somewhere I cannot return from. The fact that you recognize the danger shows your strength, Master. The Force brought us to Anakin for a reason. Perhaps it was as much for you as for him. >> Always the optimist, Qui-Gon. >> Very well. When we return, I have a confession to make to the council. One that may shock them considerably. >> Before Qui-Gon can respond, the ship's intercom crackles to life. >> Masters, we're approaching Coruscant, preparing to exit hyperspace. >> The landing platform at the Jedi Temple is busy with activity. But one group stands out. Queen Amadala and her entourage still on Coruscant for the Senate proceedings. She approaches the three Jedi masters as they disembark. Anakin and Shmei trailing behind. >> Master Jedi, I am glad you've returned. Much has happened in the Senate while you were away. >> What's happened, your highness? >> Chancellor of Aorum has been voted out in a motion of no confidence. The Senate felt he was too weak to handle the invasion crisis. They've called for new elections. M swift. This action was too swift, perhaps. >> Senator Palpatine of Naboo has been nominated to run for the chancellorship. The vote is underway as we speak. Many believe he'll win. He's positioned himself as the strong leader the Republic needs in this crisis. >> Dooku goes rigid, his face draining of color, his hand clenches at his side. >> Palpatine. >> The others turn to look at him, surprised by the intensity of his reaction. Master, >> we need to speak privately after the council session. This is this changes everything. >> The Jedi Council Chamber is filled to capacity. All 12 council members present for this extraordinary session. Anakin stands in the center of the circle, trying his best not to fidget under the weight of so many powerful presences. Shmei waits outside, her worry palpable, even through the closed doors. >> The boy is too old. 9 years is far beyond the age we normally accept initiates. His attachments are already formed. The code exists for a reason, Master Jin. To begin training so late invites disaster, and yet his potential is undeniable. You've all felt it. You've seen his medicloran count. This is not a normal situation, and it does not call for normal measures. Right? Qui-Gon is unprecedented. This situation is the chosen one. this boy may be. Turn away from him. We cannot. >> I propose a solution. The three of us, Master Yoda, Quagon Jin, and myself, will take joint responsibility for his training. Three perspectives, three teaching styles. We will help him find balance, and his mother will remain on Corissant, close but separate, allowing him to maintain connection without letting attachment consume him. Three masters for one Padawan. That is highly irregular, but effective it may be. Stronger together we are. Guide the boy properly we can. >> The council members exchange glances engaging in silent communication through the force. Finally, Mace nods slowly. Very well. The council will allow Anakin Skywalker to be trained under the condition that masters Yoda, Dooku, and Jyn share responsibility for his development. Thank you, Master Wu. We will not fail in this. As they exit the council chamber, an aid rushes up to them, slightly out of breath. >> Masters, the results are in from the Senate. Senator Palpatine has been elected Supreme Chancellor of the Republic. >> Dooku's jaw clunges. He turns to Yoda and Qui-Gon. >> The meditation chambers. Now, what I have to tell you cannot wait any longer. >> The meditation chambers deep in the temple are designed for absolute privacy. Shielded from all surveillance and eavesdropping. Dooku se seals the door behind them and activates additional privacy fields before turning to face his fellow masters. >> Grave your manner is Dooku, speak freely, you may. >> Dooku takes a deep breath, and when he speaks, each word comes with visible difficulty. >> The man who was just elected chancellor Palpatine. He approached me months ago, secretly. He knew things about me, about my frustrations with the Republic's corruption, about my doubts regarding the Jedi Council's pacivity. He offered me power. A way to change things. What kind of power? The dark side. Palpatine is a Sith Lord. >> The words hang in the air like a death sentence. Yoda's ears droop. >> A Sith? Are you certain? >> Absolutely certain. He revealed himself to me. tried to turn me to his cause. Spoke of bringing order to the galaxy through strength, of ending the Republic's weakness. I I was tempted. Force helped me. I was tempted, but I never formally accepted. I kept him at arms length, waiting to see if there was truth in his words or only manipulation. And now, Chancellor, he is at the head of the Republic. A Sith Lord sits. Which is why we must act, but carefully. If we accuse him openly without proof, we'll be branded as traitors attempting a coup. We need evidence. We need to catch him in the act. He's just won the chancellorship. Tonight, he'll be celebrating. His guard will be down. Exactly. I know some of his habits, places he frequents when he thinks he's unobserved. If we follow him tonight, see him when his mask drops, we'll sense the darkness radiating from him. Perhaps even witness something we can use. >> Dangerous this plan is if discovered. Catastrophic it could be. >> More catastrophic than leaving a Sith Lord in control of the Republic. Follow Palpatine. We will tonight see what he truly is. We must. The wealthy levels of Coruscant gleam with artificial light as the three Jedi Masters move through the shadows like ghosts. Dooku leads them, following the route he knows Palpatine takes when he visits his mysterious associate. They've cloaked themselves in the force, becoming nearly invisible to casual observation. Ahead, Palpatine's speeder lands on a private platform attached to a luxurious apartment. The newly elected Chancellor exits, glancing around briefly before entering the building. They scale the building's exterior, using the force to enhance their movements and position themselves outside the apartment's large windows. Through the transpar, they can see into a lavishly decorated room where Palpatine greets an elderly being, Heggo Damasque, known publicly as a wealthy moon banker. But the three Jedi can sense the darkness rolling off him in waves. >> My apprentice, I heard the news. Chancellor Palpatine. It has a nice ring to it. Don't you think? Everything is proceeding as we have foreseen. Master, the Jedi suspect nothing. The Senate is too fractured to oppose me. And with the Trade Federation under our control, we can manufacture crisis after crisis. Each one expanding our power. lease calls for a celebration to the fall of the Republic and the rise of our empire. They pour glasses and drink deeply, the wine loosening their tongues and lowering their guards further. The alcohol flows freely, and with each glass, they become more animated, more careless. The Jedi are blind. They sit in a temple, meditating while we reshape the galaxy right under their noses. [laughter] Arrogant they have become so certain of their superiority that they cannot see the darkness growing in their own capital. [snorts] Soon we'll have the clone army. Soon we'll have the droid army. We'll set them against each other. Tear the Republic apart from within. And from the ashes we will build something glorious. Outside, the three Jedi masters exchange looks of horror and determination. >> Heard enough. We have act now. We must. >> Agreed. >> They focus the force into a concentrated burst and shatter the window. Glass explodes inward. The two Sith Lords spin, reaching for their lightsabers, but the alcohol has dulled their reflexes. By the time their red blades ignite, the three Jedi are already upon them. Yoda leaps at Plaggus, his small green blade a blur of motion. The ancient moon staggers backward, his movement sluggish from drink. Plaggus swings his lightsaber in wide, sloppy arcs that Yoda dodges with ease. >> For centuries plotted, you have [clears throat] and now it does. >> His blade cuts through Pllegus' guard and scores a deep hit across the Sith's chest. The moon screams, dark side energy crackling around him in a desperate defense. Meanwhile, Dooku engages Palpatine, and there's a terrible poetry in the conf confrontation. Their blades clash, but Palpatines's form is compromised by intoxication. He stumbles, overextends, and Dooku sees the opportunity. His blue blade flashes forward, piercing Palpatines's shoulder. The Sith screams. Qui-Gon supports both fights, using the force to push, to unbalance, to create openings for his allies. He catches Plaggus with a force push that sends the wound wounded moon crushing into a wall. Yoda follows up instantly, his blade a green comet. His lightsaber pierces Pllegus' heart. The ancient Sith's eyes widen in shock, then go dark. His body crumples to the floor, lifeless. Palpatine sees his master fall, and rage consumes him. Dark side lightning erupts from his fingers, wild and unfocused, Dooku deflects it with his lightsaber, the energy crackling harmlessly away. >> You cannot stop us. Even if you kill me, the plan continues. My apprentice >> will find themselves without a master. >> His lightsaber cuts through Palpatines's neck. The newly elected chancellor's head separates from his body. Both falling to the expensive carpet with a wet thud. The red lightsaber deactivates and rolls away. Silence falls over the apartment, broken only by the three Jedi's heavy breathing. They stand among the bodies of two Sith Lords. The weight of what they've just done settling over them. He mentioned an apprentice. There's a third Sith out there. I've seen him. A Zabrack with red and black tattoos. Palpatine called him Maul. But I do not know where to find him. >> Search for him we will. But first handle this we must. Dead the Supreme Chancellor is. >> Over the following weeks the Senate elects Senator Bale Antilles of Aldderon as the new Supreme Chancellor. A principled man with a reputation for integrity. He immediately mobilizes forces to liberate Naboo, driving out the Trade Federation and restoring Queen Amadala to her throne. But in private meetings with the Jedi Council, the truth is darker. They have seen firsthand how easily corruption can rise to power. How blind they were to the threat. The Republic needs more than good leadership. It needs fundamental reform. And there is still a third Sith Lord out there waiting in the shadows. 15 years later, the training hall echoes with the clash of lightsabers. Anakin Skywalker, now a man of 24, tall and powerful, moves like water through fire as he faces three of the greatest Jedi masters in the order simultaneously. Yoda comes at him from the left, his small form a blur of green energy. Qui-Gon attacks from the right, his strikes measured and powerful. Dooku engages him head-on, his elegant form two dueling stance, creating a web of blue light that should be impossible to penetrate. Should be. Anakin's lightsaber seems to be in four places at once. He parries Yoda's strike, redirects Qui-Gon's attack with a subtle twist of his blade, and counters Dooku's thrust, all in one fluid motion. His connection to the Force is like nothing the three masters have ever witnessed. It's as if he can see several seconds into the future, anticipating their every move. >> Your defense is strong, Anakin, but defense alone won't win battles. Who says I'm on defense? >> He suddenly goes on the offensive, his blade work shifting from reactive to proactive. He drives Yoda back with a series of rapid strikes, forces Qui-Gon to leap aside with a force push, and locks blades with Dooku. For a moment, the count and his students strain against each other, blue blades hissing where they meet. [clears throat] The Senate convenes today in the vote to expand Chancellor Team's emergency powers. What do you think, masters? Will they grant him even more control? They will if they're fools. The man has already consolidated more power than any Chancellor in history. >> Anakin disengages from Dooku, back flips over Yoda's sweeping strike, and lands in a ready stance. >> He's used every crisis to expand his authority. The Coravan incident, the Honoran civil war, the Rexis prime disaster, every single one traced back to criminal organizations under his political allies influence. Ever since we cleared out the huts from Tatawine, and I became senator, this has been happening one incident after another. Suspicious, these patterns are too convenient, these emergencies. The four of them lower their lightsabers. The training session transitions into discussion as naturally as combat transitioned into philosophy. >> That's because they are convenient, Master Yoda. Too convenient. Our intelligence suggests that all these criminal organizations answer to a single entity, a crime syndicate called the Shadow Collective. And I believe that's where the last Sith is hiding. Maul. He's been orchestrating this from the Shadows, using the criminal underworld to create chaos, allowing his political puppets to seize more and more power. It's the same pattern we saw with Palpatine and Plaggus. Create the problem, offer the solution, gain power in the process. But we need proof. We need to connect Team and his faction directly to the Shadow Collective. If we can do that, we can expose the whole conspiracy and cut out the corruption at its root. >> You've learned well, Anakin, both in combat and in political strategy. >> I had good teachers. Three of them, in fact. The door into the training hall opens, and Obi-Wan Kenobi enters, now a Jedi Master in his own right, is bearing confident and his beard neatly trimmed. >> Masters, Anakin, I apologize for interrupting, but I bring news from the council. Speak, Master Kenobi. >> We've received intelligence about the Shadow Collective's next target. They're planning an attack on the headquarters of the Intergalactic Banking Clan. If they succeed, they'll steal enough credits to bankrupt the Republic's core financial system, which would allow team to declare a total state of emergency, and assume near dictatorial powers. Then we stop them. We get there first, gather evidence, and expose the whole operation. Master, I propose we form a stealth strike team. The five of us, you, Dooku, myself, Anakin, and Obi-Wan, we infiltrate the Shadow Collective's forces, record everything, and bring back the proof we need. Dangerous this mission would be. All of us in one place at one time. But necessary. We've been preparing for this for 15 years. Ever since we killed Palpatine and Plaggus, we knew there was a third Sith out there, and now we finally have a chance to end this. Yoda looks at each of them in turn, then nods slowly. Agree. I do. Prepare for departure. We will end this threat. We must. >> The Banking Clans headquarters orbits Cypio, the planet gleaming below like a pearl against the black of space. The Jedi's ship approaches on silent running. Its stealth systems engaged, making it nearly invisible to sensors. Inside, the five Jedi prepare for infiltration. They've traded their traditional robes for dark, form-fitting outfits that won't rustle or catch on obstacles. Their lightsabers are secured, but ready. Remember, we're here for intelligence first, combat second. We need to record everything. Who's involved? What they're planning, and most importantly, their connection to Chancellor Team. >> Stay focused. Don't let your emotions cloud your judgment. >> I'm not the impulsive Padawan I once was. Master, I know what's at stake. You could have fooled me. I remember a certain training exercise last month where you decided to improvise. And it worked, didn't it? Enough. Approaching the Shadow Collective fleet. They look out the viewport and see them. A small fleet of unmarked ships dropping out of hyperspace. The vessels are a mix of designs, clearly cobbled together from various sources, but they move with military precision. The Shadow Collective begins its approach to the Banking Clan headquarters. Weapons powering up. Alarms blare on the station as security forces scramble to respond. Now, while they're focused on the attack, we slip aboard their flagship. The Jedi ship accelerates, using the chaos of the initial attack as cover. They attach to the Shadow Collective flagship hall with magnetic clamps and the five Jedi cut through the airlock with their lightsabers, the metal glowing orange before falling away. They drop into the maintenance corridor, immediately cloaking themselves in the force. Footsteps echo nearby, guards rushing toward the bridge. The Jedi wait, patient and still as statues, until the guards pass. This way, I can feel them. The darkness is strongest towards the ship center. They move like shadows through the ship, avoiding patrols through a combination of forced stealth and careful timing. The ship shutters as the weapons fire on the Banking Clan station, but the Jedi press on. Finally, they reach a corridor outside what appears to be the captain's quarters. Through the door, they can hear voices. >> Recording device is ready. We need to capture every word. >> Obi-Wan activates a small hollow recorder, pointing it at the door. Qui-Gon uses the force to slice into the door systems, activating its interior surveillance camera and routing the feed to their recorders. The image appears on Obi-Wan's data pad, and what they see makes their blood run cold. In the center of the room stands Darth Maul, his red and black face unmistakable, his yellow eyes burning with malice. Before him, kneeling in supplication, are three figures. A massive zabrack male covered in scars, a pale woman with a bald head and cold eyes, and a nightmarish cybernetic being with multiple arms and no legs. Zavage a press, Assange Ventress, and General Grievous. The attack proceeds exactly as planned. The banking plan will fall, their credits will be ours, and the Republic will teeter on the edge of economic collapse. and chancellor team will call for emergency powers, master. >> Yes, my apprentice. Our puppet in the Senate will assume total control. The Trade Federation and Banking Plan leaders, those not under our direct control, will be arrested for failing to prevent this attack. We will own the economy. We will own the government. The Sith will rule the galaxy, and the Jedi will never even realize it. The fools still think they defeated the Sith when they killed Cidius and Plaggus. They have no idea we're already three steps ahead. >> What of the Jedi, Lord Maul? Some are persistent. >> The Jedi are blind. They sit in their temple debating philosophy while we reshape the galaxy. By the time they understand what's happening, it will be too late. The Republic will be our empire and they will kneel or die. [laughter] Outside the five Jedi exchange, Grim looks. They have what they need. Every word recorded, every face documented. This is the evidence that will bring down the conspiracy. Enough recorded. We have end this [clears throat] now. We must agreed. Remember, we need Maul alive if possible. We need him to testify about this connection to team. >> Understood. But if it comes down to the Republic's safety or his capture, then we do what we must. On your signal, master, may the force be with us. The Jedi ignite their lightsabers simultaneously. Five blades of blue and green light blazing to life. Then they move as one. The door explodes inward, torn apart by concentrated force power. The Jedi burst through, their blades already in motion. Chaos erupts. Maul spins, his double-bladed lightsaber igniting in a blur of red. His yellow eyes widen with genuine shock. Jedi. Yoda leaps at him. Their blades move faster than the eye can follow. Green and red light painting the air. Maul fights with fury and hatred, but Yoda counters with centuries of wisdom and perfect technique. Across the room, Dooku faces General Grievous, and it's a nightmare made real. Blue and green stolen blades clash against Dooku's elegant blue. >> You wield the weapons, but lack the force. You're nothing but a mockery. >> I've killed dozens of Jedi, old man. You're just another trophy. His four blades come at Dooku from multiple angles simultaneously, but the counts form three mastery allows him to parry all four with minimal movement. He's efficiency incarnate, each block precisely placed. Each counter-strike aimed at Grievous's few vulnerable points. >> Your arrogance will be your undoing. Meanwhile, Qui-Gon engages Savage Oppress, and it's a battle of contrasts. Savage is all raw power and brutality. His massive form swinging his double-bladed lightsaber like a club. Qui-Gon is grace and precision, using Savage's momentum against him. He sidesteps a massive overhead strike and slashes across Savage's arm. The Zabra howls in pain, but doesn't slow down. If anything, the injuries make him more ferocious. Obi-Wan and Assange Ventress circle each other. Their fight is almost beautiful. A deadly dance of crimson meeting blue. Blades spinning and weaving through the air. Their blades lock and they strain against each other. Faces mere inches apart. He breaks the lock and goes on the offensive. His twin blades forcing Ventress to give ground. Anakin floats between the fights. A wild card that tips the balance. He force pushes Savage into the wall, giving Qui-Gon an opening. He deflects one of Grievous's blades away, creating a gap in the cyborg's defense that Dooku exploits. He throws debris at Ventress, disrupting her rhythm and allowing Obi-Wan to score a hit across her shoulder. But Maul sees this in screams and rage. >> You, the chosen one, you were supposed to fall to darkness. You were supposed to destroy them. I found balance instead. Something you'll never understand. He joins the fight against them all. And suddenly Yoda has support. The two Jedi work in perfect synchronization, high and low, fast and faster. Maul is one of the greatest duelists in the galaxy, but even he cannot stand against two masters working in perfect harmony. Yoda strikes low, forcing Maul to block. Anakin strikes high, forcing Maul to twist. The Sith Lord's defense begins to crumble. Across the room, Dooku sees his opening. Grievous overextends an attack, and the count's blade flashes. One of the cyborg's arms falls to the floor, still clutching its lightsaber. Then another. Grievous screams in rage, and fear. His blade pierces through Grievous's chest plate, finding the organic heart and lungs within. The cyborg's eyes widen then go dark. His body collapses, servo's whining as they power down. Qui-Gon and Svage continue their brutal exchange, but the Zabrak's raw power is beginning to fade against the Jedi Master's endurance. Savage's movements become more predictable, more desperate. Qui-Gon sees his chance and takes it. A precise strike that severs Savage's lightsaber in half, followed immediately by a force push that slams him into the wall hard enough to crack the metal. Savage slumps, unconscious. Obi-Wan and Ventress are eventually matched. But when Anakin briefly supports him with a force grip of Ventress's ankle, it's enough. Obi-Wan's blade cuts through both her lightsabers, then scores a deep hit across her torso. She falls, gasping. >> Promised victory. >> He lied. That's what Sith do now. Only Maul remains, facing all five Jedi. His eyes dart between them, calculating odds, looking for escape routes, finding none. >> You may defeat me, but the plan continues. Team will rise to power. The Republic will still fall. Not when the Senate sees this. Not when they hear you confess to everything. Maul's face twists with rage and desperation. Dark side energy crackles around him as he prepares one final suicidal attack. But Yoda is faster. His saber moves in a green arc, too quick to follow, and Maul's double-bladed weapon fails, falls to the ground in pieces. Before the Sith can react, all five Jedi use the force simultaneously, binding him in an invisible grip so powerful he cannot even breathe deeply. Finished you are, Maul. Face justice you will. Maul struggles, but it's useless. Dooku produces force suppressing binders and locks them around Maul's wrists. The darkness around the Sith Lord flickers and dies. Secure the data from the ship's computers. We need every scrap of evidence about their connection to team and his faction. Honest. Anakin looks down at Maul and there's something like pity in his eyes. You could have been more. The dark side makes you powerful, but it makes you a slave. Better a slave to power than a servant to weakness. You still don't understand. That's sad. The Senate chamber has never been more crowded. Every senator is present. The gallery is filled with press and observers, and the tension is thick enough to cut with a lightsaber. Chancellor Einly team stands at the central podium, his amphibious features arranged in an expression of grave concern. >> My fellow senators, the attack on the banking plan was devastating. Trillions of credits were nearly stolen. Our financial system nearly collapsed. This proves what I have been saying. The republic needs stronger central authority. We can no longer afford the inefficiencies of democratic process in times of crisis. Therefore, I am calling for a vote to grant the chancellor's office permanent emergency powers, allowing for >> I call for an immediate vote of no confidence in Chancellor Team. >> The Senate erupts in shocked murmurss. Team's face goes purple with rage. This is outrageous, Senator Skywalker. You have no grounds. >> I have enough ground. You're a traitor to the Republic, Chancellor. A puppet of the Sith. The Senate gasps collectively. Team's face cycles through several expressions before settling on indignant rage. >> This is slander. I will not stand for these baseless accusations. >> If Senator Skywalker has evidence, let him present it. >> Anakin nods to Obi-Wan, who activates the holographic projectors throughout the chamber. Suddenly, the recording from Maul's ship plays for all to see. Maul's voice echoes through the Senate. >> Yes, my apprentice. A puppet in the Senate will assume total control. The Trade Federation and Banking Plan leaders, those not under our direct control, will be arrested for failing to prevent this attack. [laughter] We will own the economy. We will own the government. The Sith will rule the galaxy, and the Jedi will never even realize it. The Senate watches in stunned silence as the full recording plays. Maul's confession, his orders to his acolytes, his casual discussion of manipulating Team and the entire government. When it ends, Anakin speaks again. We have additional evidence. Financial records showing payments from shadow collective accounts to Chancellor Team's political faction, communications between Team's advisers and known criminals, testimony from Darth Maul himself, currently in Jedi custody. This conspiracy goes deep, senators. The Chancellor, the Trade Federation leadership, the Banking Clan executives, all of them working together to destroy the Republic from within. >> This is a fabrication. A Jedi coup. They're trying to seize power. >> We want no power, Chancellor. We want justice and truth. I second Senator Skywalker's call for a vote of no confidence. And I add a motion to immediately arrest Chancellor Team and all members of his political faction pending investigation. >> I third both motions. team tries to call for order. Tries to use his authority to shut down the proceedings, but it's too late. The Senate has turned against him. The vote is called. It's not even close. Unanimously, the Senate removes Team from power. Republic guards move to arrest him, but Team makes one last desperate move. He pulls a hidden blaster and aims it at Anakin. >> If I fall, I'm taking you with me, Skywalker. >> He fires. Anakin's lightsaber ignites and deflects the bolt in one smooth motion. The deflected shot hits Team in the shoulder, and he collapses. The guards swarm him, securing his weapon and binding his hands. The Senate erupts in chaotic discussion. Senators shouting proposals and counterproposals, but gradually order is restored. Over the following days, a new election is held. Senator Anakin Skywalker, the former slave from Tatooine, who became the count of his home world and drove the Huts from its space, who exposed the greatest conspiracy in Republic history, is elected Supreme Chancellor by an overwhelming margin. Following this, Master Yoda decides to retire and step down as Grandmaster, leaving the order in Count Dooku and Qui-Gon's capable hands. Three months later, the Chancellor's office has been redecorated. Gone are the dark oppressive furnishings the team favored. In their place are light, airy designs that let in natural sunlight. Anakin Skywalker sits behind the desk reviewing reports on the ongoing anti-corruption purge. The arrests have been extensive. Dozens of senators, hundreds of corporate executives, thousands of criminal leaders. The Shadow Collective has been dismantled. The Trade Federation's illegal activities have been exposed and their leadership imprisoned. The Banking Clan has been removed with strict oversight. The Republic is healing. A chime announces a visitor. Anakin looks up to see Padme Amadala entering, and his serious expression softens into a genuine smile. Senator Emadala, this is a pleasant surprise. Chancellor Skywalker, or should I say former Jedi Skywalker. >> Leaving the order was necessary. Can't have a conflict of interest between the Jedi and the government. >> And was that the only reason? >> You know, it wasn't. >> They stand close now. The tension between them palpable. The attraction is built over years of working together or fighting for the Republic side by side. >> The Jedi forbid attachments. >> Good thing I'm not a Jedi anymore. >> They kiss and it's like the Force itself approves. the galaxy aligning to this one perfect moment. That's our theory. 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