Fives, CT-5555, a prominent clone trooper known for his intelligence and unwavering loyalty, meets his tragic end in Season 6, Episode 4, “Orders,” of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. His death is a pivotal moment in the series, setting the stage for the revelation of the sinister Order 66 and the fall of the Republic.
The Significance of Fives’ Discovery
Fives’ death is not just a casualty of war; it’s a consequence of uncovering a deep conspiracy that threatened the very foundation of the Republic. He stumbled upon the truth behind the inhibitor chips implanted in all clone troopers, realizing they were designed to control them and force them to execute Order 66, a directive to eliminate the Jedi Order.
His desperate attempts to warn the Jedi Council and Captain Rex were thwarted by Chancellor Palpatine (Darth Sidious) himself, who skillfully manipulated events to discredit Fives and protect his grand plan. Fives’ paranoia, exacerbated by the removal of his chip and his subsequent isolation, made him appear unstable, further diminishing his credibility in the eyes of his comrades and superiors.
The tragedy lies in the fact that Fives was so close to exposing the truth, potentially saving countless lives and altering the course of galactic history. His death serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive influence of the Sith and the insidious nature of their plots.
The Events Leading Up to Fives’ Demise
Following the death of Tup, another clone trooper who inexplicably executed a Jedi Master, Fives underwent extensive medical examination. During this process, he discovered Tup’s malfunctioning inhibitor chip. Driven by a desire to understand the cause of Tup’s actions and prevent similar incidents, Fives embarked on his own investigation.
His investigation led him to the Kaminoan scientists responsible for the creation and maintenance of the clone army. He learned that the chips were implanted at birth and that their primary function was to execute specific commands, including Order 66.
Desperate to warn his brothers and the Jedi, Fives contacted Anakin Skywalker and Captain Rex. However, Palpatine intervened, framing Fives as a potential threat and ordering his arrest.
The Final Confrontation
In a frantic attempt to prove his innocence and expose the conspiracy, Fives sought out Anakin and Rex. However, paranoia and Palpatine’s manipulation turned the situation against him. During the ensuing chaos, Fives, believing he was being hunted, drew his blaster, leading Commander Fox to fatally shoot him.
His last words, a desperate plea to Rex to investigate the “inhibitor chips,” echo the urgency of his discovery and the magnitude of the threat he tried to prevent. Though he died branded a traitor, his sacrifice ultimately planted the seed of doubt in Rex’s mind, paving the way for Rex and others to eventually remove their chips and resist Order 66.
The Broader Impact of Fives’ Death
Fives’ death had a profound impact on the narrative of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and the wider Star Wars universe.
- Unveiling Order 66: His investigation provided crucial clues to the existence and purpose of Order 66, foreshadowing the tragic events of Revenge of the Sith.
- Rex’s Awakening: His final words haunted Captain Rex, eventually leading him to discover the truth about the chips and remove his own.
- The Clone’s Perspective: Fives’ story provided a compelling perspective on the clone troopers, humanizing them and showcasing their individuality and moral compass. It demonstrated they were more than just obedient soldiers.
FAQs About Fives and His Fate
What was Fives’ clone designation?
Fives’ clone designation was CT-5555. He earned his nickname due to his involvement in a critical mission that almost cost him his life.
What unit was Fives a part of?
Fives was a member of the 501st Legion, under the command of Captain Rex and, ultimately, Anakin Skywalker.
What was the significance of the inhibitor chips in the clones?
The inhibitor chips were bio-chips implanted in all clone troopers at birth. They were designed to control the clones and force them to obey specific orders, including Order 66, a command to eliminate the Jedi Order.
Why was Fives so paranoid in his final moments?
Fives’ paranoia stemmed from the removal of his inhibitor chip and the realization that he was being hunted by Palpatine, who sought to silence him and protect the Order 66 conspiracy. The isolation and fear of being labeled a traitor further fueled his anxiety.
Did anyone believe Fives before he died?
While Anakin Skywalker and Captain Rex initially tried to help Fives, Palpatine’s manipulation and Fives’ increasingly erratic behavior made it difficult for them to fully trust him. Ultimately, no one fully believed him before his death.
How did Commander Fox know to shoot Fives?
Commander Fox was likely acting under direct orders from Chancellor Palpatine or other high-ranking officials. He was instructed to apprehend Fives by any means necessary, perceiving him as a threat to the Republic, without knowing the truth.
Could Fives have been saved?
Potentially. If Fives had been able to clearly communicate his findings to the Jedi Council without Palpatine’s interference, he might have been able to expose the conspiracy and avert the tragedy. However, Palpatine’s skillful manipulation made this nearly impossible.
What was Order 66?
Order 66 was a secret order programmed into the clone troopers’ inhibitor chips, instructing them to execute all Jedi Knights, deeming them traitors to the Republic.
What other clones removed their inhibitor chips?
Besides Rex, Commander Wolffe and Gregor also removed their inhibitor chips. They experienced similar internal conflicts and eventually made the decision to resist Order 66.
How did Rex remove his inhibitor chip?
Rex received assistance from Ahsoka Tano, who was able to locate and remove his inhibitor chip before Order 66 was fully executed.
Did Fives’ actions ultimately prevent Order 66?
While Fives’ actions didn’t prevent Order 66 entirely, they planted the seeds of doubt and awareness that allowed some clones, like Rex, Wolffe, and Gregor, to resist the order and ultimately save lives. His sacrifice had a lasting impact.
What makes Fives such a beloved character in the Star Wars fandom?
Fives is a beloved character because he represents the potential for individuality and moral courage within the clone army. He embodies the struggle against manipulation and the fight for truth, resonating with fans who appreciate complex characters and morally gray narratives. His tragic fate further solidifies his status as a memorable and impactful character in the Star Wars universe.