A Galaxy in Darkness (Book 2)

The 501st and the Sith Inquisitors

          "Kane, tomorrow I want you and the clones in the 501st to begin the search for Masters Ki-Adi-Mundi and Shaak Ti. I am afraid that I do not have any information on their whereabouts so you will need to rely on the Force to locate them," instructed Master Luminara. "I have already told Captain Rex of this mission, but he will most likely wait for you before he explains the task to the rest of his troopers.

"Yes, Master. I shall make preparations immediately."

          Shortly after exiting the Surveillance Room, I noticed Rex and Ahsoka talking further down the hallway. They were laughing. I could tell without even knowing what they were talking about that they were great friends. Not wanting to interrupt their joyful reunion, I quietly walked past them and made my way towards my bedroom, as it was getting rather late. I heard the sound of footsteps running towards my direction shortly after passing the two of them.

"Kane, wait. I need to ask you something," Rex said, taking a look back at Ahsoka and waving goodbye.

"Of course, Rex. What do you need?", I responded kindly, knowing it must have been important since he ended his conversation with Ahsoka upon noticing me.

"You might not have been aware of this but before his shift to the Dark Side, General Skywalker," he cleared his throat, "... Anakin, led the 501st. I respected him as my General and as a friend. I thought no one would be able to replace him. That is until you came along. The way you fight and go about things really reminds me of him. I want you to become the new commanding General of the 501st. So, what do you say? Are you in?"

I stood in silence pondering what he had just asked of me. Rex had his eyes focused on me, awaiting an answer. "I've overheard several Council members speak of his heroic acts during the Clone Wars, most of them being risky and absurd. I know I will never be able to be the General he was, but it would be my honor to follow his footsteps and lead the same troops he once led into the battles ahead."

Rex lit up, a huge smile spreading across his face. "Great! I will go notify the rest of the troops. I'm sure Fives will be more than happy to hear the news." Rex patted me on the shoulder and walked in the direction of the barracks. I enjoyed seeing Rex happy. The Clone Wars really took a toll on him, but I'm glad that he's back to his old self again.

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           It was the next day and I walked out of my room and headed straight to the hangar to meet up with Fives and Rex. As I was making my way there, Master Luminara caught up to me. "Oh, greetings Master," I said politely.

"Hello, Kane," she responded, "Are you excited about leading the 501st?"

"If I'm being honest, Master, I'm a little nervous. I don't think I'm deserving of such a high rank."

"What are you saying, Kane?", Master Luminara said with a confused look on her face. "Ever since you have been my Padawan and fought against the Separatist Alliance you have saved countless lives. The clones know what you went through for them, day after day, battle after battle. Loyalty means everything to the clones. Captain Rex along with everyone else under his command recognized the strength in you and the compassion that you have for them. Be the leader they want you to be, I beg of you."

"You're right, Master. I'm willing to sacrifice everything for them. I'll make sure we achieve victory in each battle we face."

"I believe in you, my Apprentice. I need to take my leave. I am going to join Aayla and Commander Bly and their troops. We are going to look for Master Kenobi. I had a vision of Tatooine when I meditated. I have reason to believe that he is there."