A long time ago,in a galaxy far, far away... It has been ten years since Anakin Skywalker left his remote desert home to begin training as a jedi apprentice. At twenty, he has exceptional Force powers, and he is one of the best pilots at the Jedi Temple. Unfortunately, he is also reckless and headstrong. His Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi, is wary of giving him too much responsibilty too soon. But that doesn't stop the Jedi Council from asssigning Anakin his first solo mission-to protect the beautiful Senator Padme Amidala from those who are trying to assassinate her. Strong-willed and capable of fighting her own battles, Padme reluctantly agrees to let Anakin protect her. She soon regrets that decision when their mutual attraction challenges her emotional control and his Jedi vows. Meanwhile, a war is brewing between the Republic and a group of Separatists threatening to leave the Republic and form their own government. Behind the scenes are a secret clone army, a cunning bounty hunter, and a shadowy being who is planning a destiny so dark that not even the wisest members of the Jedi Council can forsee the outcome.