![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_001.jpg)
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_002.jpg)
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_003.jpg)
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_004.jpg)
War machines of the type never before seen by the galaxy…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_005.jpg)
Now rumble through the Republic’s staging area on Coruscant daily, as if in grim parade.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_006.jpg)
“If these vehicles were not so terrifying they would be awe inspiring.”, Master Kenobi darkly observes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_007.jpg)
“With these weapons we will have Dooku begging for mercy in another week!”, Anakin exclaims, taken by the massive machines
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_008.jpg)
Obi-Wan grimaces, disappointed by his padawan’s eagerness for battle. “I’m afraid you will not be joining me on this one.”, begins Obi-Wan.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_009.jpg)
“What!?!”, Anakin bursts, stunned.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_010.jpg)
“The Council… and I feel it would do you good to meditate upon your feelings. For Padme, your mother, and this war.”, Obi-Wan delicately continues.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_011.jpg)
“My place is with you! Winning this war!”, an angered Anakin yells.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_012.jpg)
“You forget your training my very young padawan, wars not make one great.”, Obi-Wan sternly reprimands.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_013.jpg)
“And you forget it was I who saved you on Geonosis.”, Anakin retorts.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_014.jpg)
“Yes”, Obi-Wan concedes with a laugh as Commander Cody joins them, “But now I have Cody.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_015.jpg)
“He’s in good hands Commander. Our forces are ready General Kenobi.”, Cody interjects.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_016.jpg)
“Very well. Make the most of this my friend.”, Obi-Wan advises Anakin.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_017.jpg)
As Obi-Wan and Cody begin to depart Anakin’s voice calls after them, “Obi-Wan!”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_018.jpg)
“Yes.”, Kenobi responds turning to face his padawan.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_019.jpg)
“May the force be with you.”, Anakin wishes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_020.jpg)
“And you.”, Obi-Wan returns, touched, “In many ways you need it more than me.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_021.jpg)
“It troubles me greatly that the Jedi would allow such a gifted warrior to remain secluded in the Temple. You should be leading the armies of the Republic to victory on the front lines of this war.”, Palpatine shares with Anakin as they discuss the Council’s decision in his majestic office.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_022.jpg)
“They don’t trust me.”, Anakin broods, “They never have.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_023.jpg)
“It is because of your mother. They can never understand that love.”, Palpatine observes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_024.jpg)
“She’s… She’s dead.”, Anakin painfully relays.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_025.jpg)
Aghast Palpatine clasps Anakin’s hand, “My boy. I am so sorry. I remember when my family was murdered. No words can describe the pain.”, the Chancellor comforts.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_026.jpg)
“I… I killed them. All those who took my mother from me. Men… Women… Children”, Anakin continues.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_027.jpg)
“Jedi or not you are still only human, and it is natural to possess feelings. Even good. Our feelings give us guidance Anakin. Those who you killed deserved their fate.”, Palpatine advises.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_028.jpg)
Anakin looks down, mulling the Chancellor’s wisdom against his own Jedi Order’s Code.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_029.jpg)
“I fear I have rather upsetting news.”, Palpatine sighs, “I have received intelligence which strongly implies there is to be another attempt on our friend Senator Amidala’s life. I of course have dispatched a clone unit to protect her. I only wish there was more I could do…”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_030.jpg)
Sharply roused from his contemplation, Anakin fumes, “If Dooku is behind the attempt clones will not be enough.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_031.jpg)
“I quite agree… I will intercede to the Jedi Council in order to have you appointed as Jedi advisor to the Clone unit protecting her.”, Palpatine agrees.
“Thank you Chancellor.”, Anakin accepts, relieved.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_032.jpg)
Palpatine sadly smiles and states, “I only strive to recognize the talent that the Jedi Council so desperately tries to stifle.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_033.jpg)
“Anakin has not returned to the Temple yet?”, the holographic image of Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi questions, shocked.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_034.jpg)
“No.”, Windu replies, clearly displeased, “And what is more we have received a request from the Chancellor that Skywalker be assigned to provide continued protection for Senator Amidala.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_035.jpg)
“Blast!”, Obi-Wan curses, “Anakin is too conflicted to control his emotions.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_036.jpg)
“If he has up until now.”, Mace doubts.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_037.jpg)
“Perplexing your padawan is.”, Jedi Master Yoda states to the flickering holographic projection of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_038.jpg)
“He does have an interesting definition of meditation. He has too much of Qui-Gon in him.”, an agitated Kenobi answers.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_039.jpg)
“Aided by his friend, the Chancellor, is the boy’s disobedience.”, Yoda darkly observes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_040.jpg)
“His attachment to Palpatine and Senator Amidala clouds his judgement. If he is to bring balance to the force he must be committed to the force, not his friends.”, Windu gravely adds.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_041.jpg)
“And the only way we can possibly hope to teach him this is through trial. He will not listen to any of us, he must learn for himself.”, Kenobi argues.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_042.jpg)
“Indeed.”, Yoda agrees, “In the final reckoning only Skywalker can conquer his feelings, alone.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_043.jpg)
Yoda leans heavily upon his cane and sighs, “Yield to the Chancellor will we. May the force be with all.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_044.jpg)
The first time Anakin stepped foot in Padme Amidala’s Coruscant apartment months ago he was amazed by how easily it could put his wandering mind to rest. The gentle breeze against his tunic, the soft lighting, and the overwhelming sense of belonging caused him to the view the apartment as even more sacred than the Jedi Temple. Today however none of these peaceful qualities were present.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_045.jpg)
“I want full body scans and background checks on all droids! Tear them apart if you have to!”, orders a gruff clone Captain, proudly displaying the color flashes of an ARC Trooper, the clone troopers personally trained by Jango Fett to become more independent and lethal than their brethren.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_046.jpg)
“Oh no! I’ve done nothing wrong I tell you!”, shrieks C3-P0, as a pair of clone troopers approach him.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_047.jpg)
“That won’t be necessary.”, Anakin assures as he joins the Captain, “I personally built that unit. He may be fussy, but he’s loyal.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_048.jpg)
“Annie!”, Padme cries relieved rushing to him. “They won’t listen! They’ve already ordered poor Corda and Typho away! Can you imagine, either of them traitors!”, Padme explains, greatly upset by the intrusive security protocol instituted by the clones.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_049.jpg)
“On what grounds did you do this soldier?”, Anakin challenges the clone Captain.
Looking Anakin up and down the Captain sneers, “I don’t need to discuss my security measures with a mechanic.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_050.jpg)
“I am a Jedi padawan!”, Anakin snaps back.
Feigning regret the Captain replies, “My mistake, I didn’t know Jedi built droids. I thought Jedi scrapped droids. Nice ponytail.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_051.jpg)
“You’re rude for a clone.”, Anakin observes.
“And you’re dim witted for a Jedi.”, retorts the ARC trooper.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_052.jpg)
Choosing to ignore the insult Anakin reports, “I am here under the direct command of the Supreme Chancellor. Captain…”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_053.jpg)
“CT-7567.”, answers the clone, “They call me Rex. Tell his excellency we have everything well in hand.”, Rex continues turning away from Anakin, “We don’t need help from Jedi school boys too green to fight on the battlefield.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_054.jpg)
Before Anakin can reply he feels a grave warning in the Force…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_055.jpg)
… And rushes to bat away several laser blasts from Padme!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_056.jpg)
Just as a team of terrorists rushes in from the terrace!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_057.jpg)
As Anakin continues to protect the Senator…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_058.jpg)
Rex turns to face the surviving troopers under his command and orders, “Defensive pattern AN-H4! This is live fire boys, take ‘em down!”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_059.jpg)
The clones begin a valiant counter attack…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_060.jpg)
Inflicting grave loses on the terrorist team…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_061.jpg)
But the terrorist leader is more than a match for the clones.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_062.jpg)
Rex grabs a blastshield from a fallen trooper, as he begins to formulate a plan.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_063.jpg)
Coming alongside Anakin Rex yells, “I’ve got the Senator, you take the bounty hunter!”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_064.jpg)
Anakin rushes through the fray…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_065.jpg)
Locking weapons with the thug.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_066.jpg)
While a gifted warrior…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_067.jpg)
The bounty hunter is no match for the young Jedi’s skill.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_068.jpg)
Laying on the ground, writhing in pain, the mercenary cackles, “I…am but… the first.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_069.jpg)
With that the mercenary surcumbs to his injuries.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_070.jpg)
Joining Anakin Rex grudgingly admits, “Nice fighting… For a guy with a ponytail.”.
“You weren’t half bad… For a guy with a skirt.”, Anakin reciprocates amused.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_071.jpg)
Rex chuckles and observes, “Senator Amidala is in far more danger than we originally believed.”.
“I agree.”, Anakin concurs, “We have to draw these assassins out in the open and end it if Padme is to ever be truly safe.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_072.jpg)
“But how?”, Rex questions.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_073.jpg)
“Leave that to me.”, Anakin assures with a ruthless smile.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_074.jpg)
“It is outrageous!”, the holographic projection of Trade Federation Viceroy Nute Gunray fumes, “That after over a decade of insulting the Trade Federation, and me, Padme Amidala lives!”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_075.jpg)
“An insult I will soon correct Viceroy.”, assures Ganancioso Verme. A brutal assassin of the Trade Federation Verme is an unique Neimoidian. Like all Neimoidians Verme’s early years were spent competing with fellow grubs for limited food. While this traumatic childhood leaves most Neimoidians greedy, desperate for a life of luxury and ease, it turned Verme into a stone cold killer, willing to do whatever is necessary to get the job done. That is precisely the reason he was personally selected by Viceroy Nute Gunray to see to the death of the Trade Federation’s greatest enemy , Padme Amidala.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_076.jpg)
“You had better! I had thought that the Badoo Cobra would have finished her.”, the Viceroy blusters, clearly disappointed.. Becoming slightly more upbeat Gunray chortles, “Well, at least I had not paid him yet.”. Becomingly suddenly frightening Gunray demands, “Do not fail me Verme.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_077.jpg)
“No target has escaped me yet.”, the assassin assures, “Padme Amidala will die. By whatever means necessary.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_078.jpg)
Meanwhile, in the Jedi High Council…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_079.jpg)
“We are ready to proceed with the plan Generals.”, Clone Captain Rex reports to the Council.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_080.jpg)
“Very well, you may proceed. Everything is in place.”, Master Windu yields.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_081.jpg)
The hologram of Rex fades away as the Councilors rise, leaving them to their thoughts. “This was a grave mistake. Skywalker was not ready for this trial.”, Mace heavily shares.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_082.jpg)
“Not ready for many of the greatest trials in life are we, but face them we must.”, Yoda answers.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_083.jpg)
“True, but are we ready for the trials that await the Order should Skywalker fail?”, Windu questions, haunted by the answer.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_084.jpg)
“This had better work.”, Rex grumbles as he and his clone security unit escort their charge to the awaiting gunship.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_085.jpg)
“All too easy.”, Verme gloats, staring down at the vulnerable group.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_086.jpg)
“Now.”, Verme orders into his comlink.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_087.jpg)
A massive explosion erupts in front of unit!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_088.jpg)
The explosion is followed up by a staccato burst of laser fire..
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_089.jpg)
From an elite unit of Federation droid forces.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_090.jpg)
“Go!”, Rex cries to the white hooded figure as his clone comrades exchange fire with the Federation’s droids.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_091.jpg)
Needing no further urging the figure rushes towards the awaiting safety of the cruiser…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_092.jpg)
Coming to a stop as Verme cuts them off!
“It ends here Senator!”, Verme loathes, raising his weapon to deliver a killing blow…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_093.jpg)
Which is effortlessly deflected by the lightsaber blade which emerges from the cape.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_094.jpg)
Verme draws back in shock as Anakin Skywalker emerges from the cape!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_095.jpg)
Skywalker rushes forward, locking blades with Verme!
“It does end here, but for you, clever friend!”, Anakin sneers.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_096.jpg)
As if on signal the doors of the Republic Gunship swing open…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_097.jpg)
Releasing its payload of Coruscant Guard Shock Troopers…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_098.jpg)
Which quickly overrun Verme’s droids!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_099.jpg)
“No!”, Verme cries, stunned…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_100.jpg)
Following up with a vicious assault!
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_101.jpg)
The two continue to trade blows…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_102.jpg)
Locked in a deadly dance.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_103.jpg)
Yet just as suddenly as it began, it ends as Verme is downed by a stun blast from behind.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_104.jpg)
Rex stands over Verme’s body, a smoking pistol in each hand and wryly states, “I never did like Neimoidians.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_105.jpg)
“That makes two of us.”, Anakin chuckles, locking step with the clone.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_106.jpg)
Together the two walk towards the awaiting Gunship.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_107.jpg)
Coruscant has beautiful sunsets. The simple saying had been around long before tonight’s sunset, a well known ploy to entice tourists to the planet. Yet as she stared out at the sprawling cityscape Padme Amidala could not help but think that the saying was made just for tonight’s particularly beautiful sunset.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_108.jpg)
“Magnificent.”, the tender and familiar voice of Anakin Skywalker calls from the apartment’s entrance.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_109.jpg)
Joining his wife’s side Anakin continues, “Gunray’s thugs have been captured. You’re safe now Padme.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_110.jpg)
“My valiant Jedi Knight to the rescue again. It would seem I am deeply indebted to you.”, she softly teases.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_111.jpg)
Blushing a shade of red as dark as the sunset Anakin answers, “No, it is I who am indebted to you. It was you who saved me from slavery all those years ago on Tatooine and you again who saved me from despair after my mother’s death. I couldn’t live without you.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_112.jpg)
“I know.”, Padme replies with a gentle smile, locking hands with her husband.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_113.jpg)
Together the two watch as Coruscant surcumbs to tender embrace of night.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_114.jpg)
Finally, breaking their tranquil silence Anakin laments, “Once I’m deployed to the battlefields I don’t know how long it will be before I see you again. That scares me more than Dooku’s mightiest weapons. I… I don’t know if I can do it.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_115.jpg)
“Yes you can!”, Padme sharply answers, “You have a duty. The Republic needs you more than ever Anie, you cannot turn away.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_116.jpg)
Grasping her husband’s face Padme continues, “No matter where you are, I will love you. We may be separated by galaxies, but we will always remain close in heart.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_117.jpg)
The two fall into a tender embrace…
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_118.jpg)
Just as Captain Rex enters.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_119.jpg)
“Oh dear!”, C3-PO fuses, “It would appear that the Senator is… presently engaged.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_120.jpg)
Anakin hurriedly breaks away from the arms of his wife.
Attempting to act casual he questions, “What is it Rex?”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_121.jpg)
Clearly unnerved Rex answers, “The Chancellor has summoned you Commander Skywalker.”
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_122.jpg)
Disappointment briefly flashes over Anakin’s face before, remembering Padme’s words, he peacefully turns to her and states, “Then I must take my leave. Until we meet again Senator.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_123.jpg)
“Until we meet again Master Jedi.”, Padmes softly breathes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_124.jpg)
Anakin locks step with Rex and awkwardly requests, “I would appreciate if you were to keep what you saw tonight… private.”.
“I don’t recall seeing anything Commander.”, Rex answers with a mischievous glint in his eye.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_125.jpg)
“You’re… different for a clone.”, Anakin observes, relieved.
“And you’re quite different from the Jedi the Kaminoans taught us about.”, Rex good naturedly replies.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_126.jpg)
“I suppose that a different clone and a different Jedi can make a pretty good team.”, Anakin observes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_127.jpg)
“You have done a great service for the Republic, and me Anakin.”, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine thanks Anakin as they walk throughout his office.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_128.jpg)
“I did my duty, nothing more, Excellency.”, Anakin humbly replies.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_129.jpg)
“Yes, but few could have performed their duty as ably as you my friend.”, Palpatine observes. “I heard that you and the ARC Captain Rex worked rather well together. Is that true?”, the Chancellor continues.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_130.jpg)
“He is a skilled soldier and I consider myself lucky to have fought beside him.”, Anakin proudly answers.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_131.jpg)
“Well, as a token of my gratitude and continued belief in your abilities I have ordered the Captain and his clone unit
to be reorganized into your own clone trooper company. Which is to be immediately deployed to reinforce Master Kenobi.”, the Chancellor explains, paternal pride gleaming in his eyes.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_132.jpg)
“I…I… Thank you! Can you really do that?”, Anakin stumbles.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_133.jpg)
Palpatine laughs and assures, “Yes my boy, I am the Supreme Chancellor after all.”.
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![Link directly to this frame in the photonovel](../i/l1.png) | ![](e02/TSOD_Episode_02_134.jpg)
“I sense you two will do great things together.”, the Chancellor concludes with the weight of fate attached to every word.
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