Republic #70 Dreadnaughts of Rendili Part 2 (of 3) Story: John Ostrander Art: Jan Duursema Inking: Dan Parsons Coloring: Brad Anderson Lettering: Michael David Thomas Cover: Jan Duursema, Brad Anderson Released: 10/27/2004 Reviewed by: JF Boivin (04/17/2005) SUMMARY: After Quinlan and Obi-Wan escape the derelict Titavian IV starship, leaving Dark Jedi Asajj Ventress and Tol Skorr stranded, they rejoin the Republic fleet at Rendili. Mutineers aboard the Dreadnaught fleet are holding Plo Koon and Captain Dodonna captive. While Quinlan is in the brig, Anakin and Obi-Wan are planning a rescue aboard the enemy flagship. But when the enemy summons Separatist reinfocements, General Saesee Tiin orders the Republic fleet to concentrate all fire on the Dreadnaught ships. Will the two Jedi manage the rescue during the raging battle?

[final cover] [preview cover]

THE STORY

The redemption of Quinlan Vos continues. After last issue's cliffhanger ending, Obi-Wan is still fighting Ventress and her rancor. Quinlan manages to save Obi-Wan, who claims he never had any doubts about his loyalty, and then destroys all the other ships so the two Dark Jedi can't follow. But Ventress says she planted a tracer on Quinlan's ship, so I guess this is to be continued.

At this point, Obi-Wan catches up with Anakin, and Quinlan voluntarily comes along, proving that he is still loyal. The stage is set. What ensues is a huge space battle, on the scale of the ones from A New Hope or Return of the Jedi. I guess the Droid Starfighters from The Phantom Menace are now called "Vultures," which is the name they have in Revenge of the Sith. Quinlan escapes his prison and comes to Anakin and Obi-Wan's aid abouard a Jedi Starfighter, further adding to his redemption. This issue also highlight Anakin's skills as a starpilot.

For EU references, there is a mention of that other famous Dreadnaught fleet, the Katana fleet, and an appearance by Commander Adar Tallon, who will go on to become a very famous Rebel starfighter tactician.

THE ART

Duursema is equally good at depicting space battles. Who would have guessed? And this is my favorite depiction of Plo Koon so far. Good job all around.

CONCLUSIONS

This is turning out to be a fun Clone Wars adventure who will please Quinlan Vos fans. Check it out.

Rating: 7 / 10 Recommended