In the years leading up to the Clone Wars, the Galactic Republic had become increasingly entangled in a web of corruption, corporate greed, and expansionist policies that left many systems disillusioned. This story explores how the Republic's actions, alongside the malevolent Darth Maul, led to the death of Jedi Masters Elara Syr and Loden Ral and the ignition of the Clone Wars.

Jedi Masters Elara Syr and Loden Ral were assigned on a seemingly routine diplomatic mission to the Outer Rim planet of Felucia. The planet was rich in resources, and a separatist movement had begun to take root, seeking to break free from the Republic's exploitation.

As Elara and Loden sought to mediate and bring about a peaceful resolution, they uncovered a disturbing truth: the Republic was backing a covert operation on the Felucia system to strip its resources and silence dissent through any means necessary. Meanwhile Palpatine, had discovered the planet's strategic importance and sent Darth Maul to ensure the separatists' loyalty which would significantly help bringing war in the galaxy.

Darth Maul's arrival brought chaos and destruction to Felucia. With his cunning tactics, he framed the Jedi for crimes they did not commit, further fueling the people's hatred toward the Republic and the Jedi Order. The planet descended into chaos, and the people's trust in the Jedi was shattered.

As the conflict escalated, Elara and Loden found themselves cornered by the combined forces of the separatists, Republic-backed mercenaries, and Maul's dark power. In a tragic confrontation, they were overpowered and fell to Maul's relentless fury.

The Republic's involvement in the exploitation of Felucia, combined with the Jedi's perceived betrayal, created a galaxy-wide rift. Systems that had once been loyal to the Republic now saw it as a corrupt and oppressive force. With the deaths of Jedi heroes like Elara and Loden, many within the Order began to question the Republic's motives.

The Clone Wars were ignited as the Republic, seeking to regain control, initiated the creation of the Clone Army to quell the growing separatist sentiment. The galaxy was now plunged into a devastating conflict, with the Republic seen as corrupted by many, and the Sith's manipulation working from the shadows.