Dooku's eyes widens. He leans back a little, as though struck by a strong wind. "I accept no responsibility for Palpatine's crimes," he says, a little stiffly. ""I merely regret that opportunities may have been missed to lead history in a different direction. I remind you, madame, that I fought against him with every resource at my disposal... and lost my life in the struggle, if what I have heard is true."

Although Dooku still dearly hopes that it isn't true, that there is another explanation. He can't fully accept that after all his work, all his planning, he will not survive to see the triumph of the Sith. It's inconceivable. Surely Lord Sidious arranged for his death to be faked somehow, so he could help rule the Galaxy from behind the scenes.