Gris was escorted to the council chamber as soon as his destroyer landed on Geonosis. Officers from the other seven destroyers were assembled as well, along with members of the Trade Federation who’d remained loyal to the Empire. Something very important must be about to take place for so many to be summoned. The crowd gathered around conference tables that had been set up and chatted among themselves waiting for the meeting to begin.
Lucian found the seat he’d been assigned. Too nervous to sit, he turned to his right and joined the conversation. Rumors of impending invasion spread like wild fire. Not since Palpatine ruled had the man been so hopeful. He was filled with anticipation.
The main doors suddenly burst open interrupting murmurs of speculation. The insectoid leader of Geonosis walked through the grand entranceway and stood in front of the crowd, just as he’d done years earlier. Everyone was told to take their seats. Though too excited to sit still, Gris did as commanded.
Ceris banged his staff on the floor for complete attention. When the room finally came to order he began his speech. “Gentlemen. You must be full of wonder as to why you’ve all been gathered here after so many years. I have very exciting news for you. I’ve been given the honor of making this extremely important announcement. Today is going to be the most significant day of your lives.” The insectoid paused for greater effect. “You’re about to be greeted by our new Emperor.” Ceris turned towards the opened doors and bowed.
Two rows of soldiers dressed in the garb of Palpatine’s Imperial Guard suddenly charged through the massive doorway. A tall figure shrouded in a billowing, ebony cape marched in between them and halted in the very center of the room. The hooded figure stood silently with a distinct air of authority as he nodded to Ceris, signaling him to continue.
Ceris rose to an upright position and resumed his speech. “My friends, as you are well aware we’ve remained practically invisible for many years. You’ve all had very important jobs to perform during this time. Your tasks may have seemed unimportant, or even trivial, but everything you’ve done so far has contributed to this remarkable day. I now ask you to all rise and show the deepest respect to our new monarch. I’m honored to present our new Master, Lord Vader.”
Gris’ jaw dropped open and he gasped loudly. He wasn’t the only one who’d been taken by surprise due to the unexpected revelation. He’d never heard such an intake of breaths. Everyone was in shock. He wondered how this was possible as he stared in amazement at the dark, robed figure. This man could not be Darth Vader. He’d died alongside Emperor Palpatine on the Death Star, hadn’t he? Everyone had thought so. Had the Sith Lord survived somehow and remained in hiding all these years? No. If Darth Vader survived the destruction of the Death Star he surely would’ve let his presence be known. Everyone in the hall quickly jumped up from their seats and bowed down before their new Emperor.
Lucian just couldn’t understand it. This man was Vader. He was certain of it. There was no doubt in his mind. You didn’t have to see the black suit of armor, nor the long, flowing, black cloak that was so much a part of Darth Vader’s impressive image to feel the familiar dark emotions emanating from this figure. Gris felt Vader’s brooding presence. They all did.
Yes. This surely was the Sith Lord back from the dead, but he was also much more than just the former Lord Vader. Such power had never emitted from him alone. Only when Darth Vader stood with Emperor Palpatine had such an overwhelming aura radiate.
“Rise,” the new ruler said as he took the hood from his head revealing his face to the crowd.
Lucian Gris had never seen Vader’s face before as it was always hidden under the black mask he’d worn. Only those with the highest of ranks had been allowed that privilege. Lucian never expected the feared being behind that mask to look normal.
The Rear Admiral knew the man who stood before them now was indeed Vader, but he appeared much younger than Palpatine’s apprentice should be. Though his true age was never known, Darth Vader was in the Emperor’s service for at least twenty standard years. How could the man truly be the Sith Lord?
The ten soldiers took their helmets off and stood proudly around their Master in a tight, protective circle. Lucian was stunned to notice that each shared the same face as their new Emperor. He puzzled over this strange occurrence, but then his eyes suddenly opened wide as realization dawned on him. Gris finally understood why he’d been commanded to abduct all those women. The Sith Lord had cloned himself! But why did he have to supply so many women if there were only eleven replicas of Darth Vader? If this young man was actually Vader’s clone, where was the original? Had the Sith Lord died during the time span it took to clone these individuals?
A steady hum was heard as the crowd whispered between themselves. Lord Vader looked around the room at his audience and was pleased by their stunned reactions. The man literally thrived on such disorientation. He finally spoke, “Gentlemen. You’ve been waiting many years for the former Empire to be restored. You need not wait much longer. Your patience shall finally be rewarded. The time has come for our greatness to be revealed to the galaxy. Please bear witness to our infinite strength.”
Their new Master lifted his hands towards the doors at each end of the chamber. The hinges almost pulled completely off the ancient wood as they slammed open against the walls. Lord Vader bade his audience to the outdoor balcony.
The assembly immediately rushed out to the weathered structure that overlooked the arena. They gazed upon a huge army gathered below them. Gris couldn’t believe his eyes. No wonder he had to continually supply his superiors with women through the years, he thought as he stared unbelievingly at the innumerable amount of bodies amassed below. There were hundreds, upon hundreds of soldiers standing at attention, as well as filling the stands. Even from this distance Lucian could tell that they were all exact replicas of Darth Vader. The man was completely dumbfounded. Overcome with emotion, tears of elation seeped from the corners of his eyes. The Rear Admiral would finally be able to seek his revenge. At last!
*
Ceris slowly stepped into the background as Emperor Vader revealed his plans for glory. His role was no longer necessary to the “new empire” his Master was describing. It had taken many years to accomplish, but Ceris had done his duty. He’d repaid his debt to Darth Sidious. Very soon now, he’d be allowed to return to the catacombs and enter into a well-deserved slumber once again.
As the new monarch continued his speech, the insectoid thought back to when his role in this miraculous event began. His top priory was to keep the package hidden at all costs. He was also instructed to keep the parcel in a suspended state. Ceris made arrangements to have a small cryogenic chamber constructed inside his cubical deep within the catacombs. The contents were under his constant surveillance while he awaited the cubicle’s completion. When finally done, the insectoid entered his impenetrable cell and put himself into a dormant state. He knew the package would be safe while he awaited orders to proceed. Years passed before the leader of Geonosis was awakened again.
There were different paths the future could take, but the Sith Lord had been forewarned of one outcome. This premonition allowed Sidious to see the downfall of his vast Empire. He foresaw the cloaked destroyers as they fled the battle over Endor. He also saw his own death, as well as his successor’s, Darth Vader. Because of this vision Sidious knew he’d have to take steps in order to secure his “new empire.” If these tragic events did occur, he instructed the insectoid to contact the Imperial Navy and order the surviving destroyers to Geonosis. He was to make an example of such cowardice by executing the officers in front of underlings. Though it had taken a while to contact all the ships, Ceris did as ordered. The traitors had been terminated.
Following the completion of this act all promotions had been left to his discretion. The remnants of the armada were to protect the system from the Rebel Alliance. The insectoid was also instructed to order two destroyers to raid the outer planets for women. Ceris was to keep these “
volunteers” under his protection and in the best physical condition. Many women would be needed for Sidious’ plan to succeed. This had been the first stage of his mission.
After a number of women were transferred to Geonosis the insectoid was to commence the second phase of his mission. He was instructed to unseal the mysterious package. Ceris remembered how he’d hardly been able to contain his excitement when finally unwrapping it with trembling hands. He’d removed the sealed article inside. It contained several vials with a substantial amount of blood. The Emperor had explained that he’d taken it from Darth Vader when he was on the med-table after his near death on Mustafar. The insectoid was to carefully reanimate these cells, then inseminate a virgin. She was to be human and in perfect health. There were to be no imperfections in the surrogate as any defects might be passed on to the child. Once the “New Lord” was born Ceris was to terminate the female. Sidious had explained that it wouldn’t be prudent to keep the surrogate alive fearing spies might learn of the extraordinary event. That knowledge must be kept secured at the highest level.
When Sidious had Lord Tyranus place the order for soldiers from the Kaminoans, they’d acceleration the Stormtroopers growth rate while cloning them. They hadn’t known how long it would take before the army was used. Unfortunately, aging them too quickly interfered with the clones intelligence. In order to prevent such a reoccurrence, Darth Sidious instructed Ceris to age Vader’s clones normally, especially the New Lord.
After his young charge had grown a few years Ceris was to make certain the lad studied the holograms that were included in the package. They provided all the information the boy needed in order to learn about the Jedi. It was imperative that he know everything about this extremely dangerous and once powerful enemy.
Ceris was to see that his young Master trained to fight with a lightsaber. Though this exceptional skill was already implanted deep within the boy’s memory, it was important to keep his skill honed. It would also keep the lad in the greatest physical condition. It took years of special training to best one’s foe with a lightsaber. The Emperor had no use for blasters. Anyone could aim and shoot. Sidious considered the lightsaber civilized weaponry. In his opinion, wielding such a weapon was the only honorable way of defeating an enemy.
Ceris started on the third stage of his mission while his young charge grew to maturity. During this time the insectoid was to create another cloned army by using the blood cells provided. He was to dilute the cells with another donor so they’d be weakened. Sidious didn’t want another being as Force-sensitive as their Master would be. The clones would be exceedingly more powerful than the soldiers the Kaminoans created, but this new army would have to follow their new Emperor’s orders unequivocally.
Ceris was to inseminate as many women as possible in order to create these unique soldiers. When the original blood supply ran out he was to acquire more cells from his Master. The women Gris abducted would provide him with the necessary surrogates.
The insectoid had taken it upon himself to be the donor required to dilute the blood cells used. His race had evolved from insects. There was no stronger killer instinct than in an insect. They killed, they ate, and they reproduced. That was all his species did at one time. His kind had evolved to a certain attained knowledge of course, but their desire to kill was still exceedingly strong. What better army could he possibly provide? These soldiers would fight to the death for their Emperor.
The last stage of Ceris’ mission was to use Geonosis’ foundry in order to build a new and more powerful Death Star. The third battlestation would be completed in segments as the first one had been. He was to construct the vessel under landing sites Federation Starships once used. This would allow easy access to the surface, enabling workers to assemble it in space at a later date. It was imperative that the ship’s construction be kept a secret. As the city’s foundry was beneath these sites, the battlestation’s fabrication had been kept well hidden from prying eyes.
*
After the revelation of Lord Vader’s reemergence was made known to all on Geonosis, Lucian Gris was summoned to his private chambers. The officer was excited and full of wonder. He sat in the ante-chamber waiting impatiently for nearly an hour. An Imperial Guard finally announced that his Master was ready to receive him. Lucian nervously walked through the portal.
“Admiral Gris. Please come in. Sit. Relax yourself. You don’t have to be so nervous. Would you like some refreshment?”
“That isn’t necessary your Eminence,” Lucian said as he bowed deeply before his new Master.
“Rise. Please make yourself comfortable.” The Emperor gestured towards the overstuffed sofa.
Lucian walked over to the luxurious piece of furniture that took up much of the room and sat on the edge, afraid to mar its surface with his worn uniform.
“Well then. Down to business. I’ll get right to the point. I won’t keep you in suspense any longer. Are you pleased with your command Admiral?”
“Very pleased your Eminence.”
“Then you’ll be even more pleased at what I am about to offer you.” A false grin spread across Vader’s face. The amount of greed that this insignificant being emitted repulsed him greatly. He paused letting tension build before saying, “You’d make me extremely happy if you would consider taking the position as the commander of my new Death Star.”
Lord Vader waited for Gris to eagerly accept his generous offer. He’d scanned the minds of everyone at the meeting as he proclaimed himself to all. The Admiral had quickly come to the conclusion that he was cloned from the original Vader. It was quite apparent that Gris was somewhat intelligent, to a certain degree at least. Intelligence was a requirement that was needed to command a Death Star. None of the others had been as quick minded, nor as greedy. This revolting, little man had performed many unscrupulous acts in order to achieve his grand goals. Lord Vader needed someone who held such a burning desire for position. Gris was a coward at heart and could be easily manipulated. The new Emperor would allow no one to take exclusive control from him.
“A Death Star? You’ve constructed another Death Star?”
“Yes. A more powerful Death Star in fact. This battlestation will be the most powerful source of destruction ever created. There will be no possible way for anyone to break through its defenses. I’ve made certain of it. This Death Star will be impenetrable. Naturally, if you accept my offer, you’ll receive another promotion. How does the title of Grand Moff suit you?”
“Grand Moff? There isn’t any higher rank! You honor me too much your Grace. I’d be honored to accept the position, especially now that I’m aware of the need for all the secrecy. I have to admit that I’ve had doubts about the Empire’s future.”
“It was vital that this information remained classified. We had to grow this new body I now inhabit, as well as create our Grand Army. This all took time.”
“I understand that my Lord, but why the need to replicate soldiers from Darth Vader? I’m sure you could’ve found another suitable warrior to create your army.”
“Perhaps, but my needs warrant more than mere clones. The Clone Army served me well in the past, but they were all weak minded and easily fooled by those who are Force-sensitive. I can’t afford to make the same mistake this time.”
Gris was confused by Vader’s statement. He didn’t know why his new Emperor said that the Stormtroopers had served him before, but kept these thoughts to himself as he asked, “Why did you make so many duplicates of Vader? Aren’t you worried they may try to overthrow you?”
Lord Vader chuckled. “Do you think me a fool? My children have been altered, yet they are more powerful than any soldier could ever hope to be. Each clone is taken from my bloodline. They all possess the power of the Force, just as I do. But my children will never be as powerful as I am. Besides, they’d never risk my wrath by attempting to oust me. Don’t fret so much about the impossible Lucian. Never fear. I, and I alone shall rule.”
“Wouldn’t it ha
ve been wiser to reactivate the Droid Army my Lord?”
“Compared to my children? Don’t be ridiculous!” Vader spat out, not believing the man could be so naïve. “Machines can’t think on their own initiative. They have to be controlled by humans. People are weak and have failed me in the past. I will not risk failure again. It’s enough that I’m taking a chance on you. I can only be assured of success by having an army empowered by the Force.”
Gris didn’t expect such a harsh reaction and feared what Vader’s clone might do. “Please forgive me my Lord. I didn’t mean to question you. I hope you’ll accept my sincere apologies.”
This seemed to quell Vader’s ire somewhat. He managed to calm himself before saying, “Of course I forgive you Lucian. I understand your doubt. Please ignore my outburst. It’s just that I’m so excited finally being able to set my plan in motion. I’ve been waiting my whole life to rule the galaxy. My children number in the millions. I’m certain they’ll secure my throne for me again.”
Gris was utterly baffled. He sat silently afraid that he might anger his Master further if he uttered his thoughts.
“What bothers you Grand Moff?”
“Forgive me your Grace. I know this might seem a preposterous response, but you said that the army you created are your children. I don’t understand why you said that. I can appreciate that they were cloned from your blood cells, but they aren’t actually your children. Shouldn’t they be considered your brothers? What did you mean by saying you’ll rule again? You’ve never ruled the galaxy. Have you forgotten about Emperor Palpatine? Pardon my ignorance, but I haven’t a clue what you’re talking about.”
“No. I don’t suppose your feeble, little mind can grasp it at all,” Vader replied as he reflected on how all this came about.
*
When Darth Sidious went under the guise of Palpatine he’d sensed a being emerging within the Force that held an incredible amount of power. That being was Anakin Skywalker. He had more abilities than anyone, including himself. The Dark Lord was aware of Anakin’s abilities from the moment he‘d seen him. For this reason, he befriended Anakin and became his mentor. He’d nurtured the boy and calmed his fears, and treated him like a son.