The Heart of the Jedi

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Heart of the Jedi
HeartOfTheJedi-Artwork-v1.jpg
Author: Kenneth C. Flint
Length: 93k words
Source: starwarstimeline.net
Publication Date: December 1, 2015[1]
Timeline Placement: 4 ABY
Canon Tier: F
Preceding: Following:
Times of Change and Chaos Empire of Ashes: Fear


Heart of the Jedi is a Star Wars novel by Kenneth C. Flint commissioned by Lucasfilm in 1991. It was set to take place immediately following the Battle of Endor and the destruction of the second Death Star. The book was supposed to be preceded by a comic book miniseries called Exiles of the Force and to be followed by a sequel called Legacy of Doom by Margaret Weis. The novel was originally planned to be published in 1993[2] and Bantam promotional brochures continued to list the novel as "coming in 1996", as late as 1995. The novel was later published unofficially on the website starwarstimeline.net by Joe Bongiorno in 2015, who worked with Flint to modify elements of the original manuscript to better fit the then well established Expanded Universe.[2] In May 2021 an unlicenced paperback copy of Heart of the Jedi was sold on Amazon via Amazon's self-publishing services. The listing stated it was not for profit and that the price of the listing was paid to Amazon for printing costs alone.[3]

Development

In 1991, following the success of the Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn, Lucasfilm & Specra comissioned an additional series of paperback novels in the Star Wars universe. Flint was assigned one of these novels due to his existing work for Spectra under their sci-fi-fantasy imprint of Bantam Doubleday Dell and according to Flint himself he was personally selected by George Lucas.
Very early on Filnt had the idea for the novel to be dealing with a defeated but not destroyed Empire along with where Luke Skywalker he was going as a Jedi. Once an initial outline was developed, Flint submitted it to his editor who handled all communication to and from Lucasfilm. The broad strokes of his outline were approved with one alteration being that he had shown Sand People without their masks, and George Lucas said that that must never happen.
Flint then went on to spend most of 1992 writing the book using the movies as well as a sourcebook from West End Games supplied by Lucasfilm. By the end of that year the first draft was ready. After sending it to his editor he was told that the work on the project had stalled as they waited to develop the rest of the series. Eventually he received a list of minor alterations and started revising the manuscript. Several months later he heard from his editor that things were moving ahead and so he finalized the revisions and submitted it once more. He was told that Lucasfilm approved it. He then waited several more months and eventually through his agent discovered that Spectra determined the book couldn’t be published because it “no longer fit into the sequence for the new series.”
Eventually he discovered that this was because of the Spectra editor he had been assigned supposedly promising another author of the group that her book would be placed in Position One. Due to having limited contact with Spectra, Flint was unable to discuss the situation further.[2] Many years later Flint would be contacted by Joe Bongiorno in an effort to revive the lost novel. Due to the placement of The Truce at Bakura having taken over the story slot in the direct aftermath of The Return of the Jedi, Bongiorno working with Flint modified the placement of the novel to take place after the events of The Truce at Bakura but before the events of the X-Wing comics.[1] Other changes such as changing the name of the planet Gathol to Galvoni III were also made at this time.
The release of the novel was completed in waves with four chapters being released each month until all chapters were available, starting in May 2015 and the final release being in December of that year.

Heart of the Jedi Cover Artwork created by based on the original artwork by Paul Shipper and further edited. Known as the CuratorLegion version.

Cover Summary

Darth Vader and the Emperor are no more. The Alliance has officially become the New Republic. As Han Solo, Princess Leia and new Chief-of-State Mon Mothma emerge triumphant against the diminishing Empire, the Imperial Remnant fights on until the long-silent Imperial Senate rises up to call for peace. But not everyone wants peace, and High Admiral Tharkus has made plans to ensure the Empire will reemerge under his rule. At his side stands the mysterious Dioskouroi, beings of rare and deadly powers! For Luke Skywalker, exhausted from years of fighting, the time has come to depart upon a journey of discovery, a journey that will lead him to a secret long ago hidden by Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Synopsis

"Heart of the Jedi" chronicles Luke Skywalker's personal quest for understanding his place in the Force and a galaxy no longer at war, as he feels prematurely aged by conflict and seeks the "Heart of the Jedi" on the distant planet Angorathea, guided by the Force spirits of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda. Concurrently, High Admiral Tharkus, an Imperial officer vehemently opposed to peace and the Force, uses shapeshifting agents Pollux and Kastor (who cunningly impersonate characters like Captain Lucky Thatch and Prince Gowan) to track Luke and dismantle Princess Leia's diplomatic peace delegation, eventually murdering Senator Taj Valladian. Han Solo and Leia, growing increasingly concerned for Luke and aware of Tharkus's treachery, embark on a desperate rescue mission, receiving unexpected aid from the Force-attuned Lazhuwan sea creatures. The converging paths lead to a climatic confrontation at the Jedi Temple on Angorathea, where Tharkus attempts to seize control of the "Heart of the Jedi" for himself, but is ultimately consumed by its power, while the ex-stormtrooper Storm makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect Luke's friends. In the aftermath, Luke embraces his identity as a true Jedi Knight and dedicates himself to rebuilding the New Republic, recognizing his vital role in the future.

Plot Summary

Chapter One

The novel opens with an Imperial Victory-class Star Destroyer and an MC80 Liberty type Mon Calamari Star Cruiser locked in battle. The Imperials are quickly outmatched taking heavy damage and losing its main drive systems. As the Rebel cruiser grapples onto the Imperial ship, its forces prepare to board. The boarding party, led by a mysterious figure (later revealed to be Luke Skywalker) wielding a green lightsaber, blasts through the outer bulkhead door. Luke deflects blaster fire and cuts down stormtroopers with ease. The boarding party swiftly pushes through the ship, overcoming all resistance and driving the Imperials into a retreat. On the bridge of the boarded vessel, the captain and his remaining crew make a last stand against the invaders. A brutal melee ensues, with heavy casualties on both sides. Luke proves unstoppable, systematically eliminating the remaining Imperial defenders. When only the captain is left, he defiantly refuses to surrender and fires his blaster. His shot misses Luke and hits one of the Rebel soldiers. In retaliation, Luke hurls his weapon, killing the captain.

Chapter Two

Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia Organa, and Han Solo stand on the bridge of the captured Imperial Star Destroyer. Luke is deeply troubled by the recent battle and the lives lost, expressing his sorrow and the emotional toll of the conflict. Leia, ever practical, tries to reassure him that they had no other choice, while Han reminds him of the strategic importance of their actions and the value of capturing the ship. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Chewbacca, who relays an urgent "Priority One" message from their base. The image of Commodore Nuran appears. Nuran announces a ceasefire with the Empire effective one hour prior. Luke is particularly distraught by this news, realizing the battle they just fought was unnecessary. Nuran urges Leia to return to the new interim base immediately for urgent strategic planning. As Han, Leia, and Chewbacca leave the bridge, Luke remains, visibly burdened by the tragic timing of the ceasefire and the recent bloodshed.

Meanwhile in orbit above the planet Scalar an Imperial Super Star Destroyer, flanked by several smaller Star Destroyers looms as a Lambda-class shuttle descends towards a stark, utilitarian city below, identified as the Imperial High Command Headquarters for the Regional Sector known as Kasserine. The shuttle lands on the rooftop of the headquarters, where civilians and Imperial bureaucrats are frantically evacuating. Four stormtroopers and three Imperial officers disembark, led by the imposing High Admiral Tharkus. Accompanying them is a grotesque, cadaverous being with glowing violet heart, later identified as Kastor. Tharkus is disgusted by the disarray and confronts Chief Dockmaster Ptomel. Ptomel, unimpressed by Tharkus's rank and critical of the military's recent performance, defiantly refuses to obey Tharkus's order to halt all departures. Tharkus commands Kastor to deal with Ptomel. Kastor transforms into a monstrous, amphibious creature and devours the dockmaster whole. Tharkus and his other officer descend into the headquarters. They reach a meeting where General Kantos and Admiral Dakova are present. Tharkus, asserting his authority as the ranking officer, declares he is taking command. He criticizes the deceased Emperor, whom he believes hindered the military with his reliance on the Force and declares that with the Emperor gone, the military will now assert its proper place and gain control, only to be dramatically interrupted by a new voice from behind him.

Textless original artwork by Paul Shipper

Chapter Three

High Admiral Tharkus is confronted by Senator [[Taj Valladian] accompanied by two other senators. Valladian calmly informs Tharkus that there will be no more fighting, as the Imperial Senate has initiated and secured a ceasefire with the Rebellion. Tharkus dismisses this as a ploy, but Valladian counters emphasizing that the Senate has regrouped in the power vacuum left by the Emperor's death. Valladian and his colleagues then depart, leaving Tharkus seething with rage and vows to somehow destroy the peace.

On the mountainous planet of Torbraleen is the new interim base for the Alliance. X-wing fighters, including Luke's, land in hangar bustling with activity. Leia, accompanied by a gray-bearded guide, meets Luke and Han, who have just arrived. Luke is visibly cheered by the reunion with Wedge Antilles. Wedge confirms the ceasefire seems genuine, but both Luke and Han express skepticism about the Empire's willingness to surrender. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of R2-D2 and C-3PO. Luke affectionately greets R2, while Han jokingly teases C-3PO. Leia is impatient and cuts their reunion short, emphasizing the urgency of their mission. They head towards a glass elevator that takes them to deeper into the base.

In a large, circular meeting room, Mon Mothma leads a discussion with Leia, Luke, Han, and other officers. She confirms that the ceasefire messages and identities of the senators, particularly Senator Valladian, have been verified. Mon stresses that Leia's royal lineage and ambassadorial experience make her the ideal person to negotiate peace with the reformed Imperial Senate. Han expresses strong disbelief at the Senate's sudden authority, but Leia argues that peace could save millions of lives and is worth the risk, even with the Empire's vast remaining resources. Mon Mothma agrees but stresses the need for utmost security during negotiations on a neutral planet. Han relents but insists on accompanying Leia, citing the Millennium Falcon's speed and discretion. Luke quietly refuses to join them, leaving the reason for his decision unstated.

Chapter Four

Luke explained his reason not to join Han and Leia on the peace noting his lack of diplomatic skills. Leia protests, but ultimately allows him to leave, understanding his need for solitude. Luke departs with R2-D2. Han expresses his concern to Leia, questioning her decision to let Luke go. Leia dismisses his worries. Annoyed by her dismissive tone, Han sarcastically agrees, grumbling to himself about the "nobility" as he leaves with Chewbacca and C-3PO. As Han, Chewbacca, and the droids head to the hangar, Han is still irritated and directs the others to the Millennium Falcon looking immaculately clean and refitted, much to Han's delight. He inspects the ship with a critical eye and expresses his deep affection for his ship. Later, while Han and Chewbacca are checking the Falcon's systems. Chewbacca spots Luke preparing his X-wing for departure across the hangar. Han approaches Luke, who reveals his restlessness and need to be alone to "find some answers and hints at his struggle to understand his powers. As Luke's X-wing lifts off and streaks into space, Leia joins Han, confirming she senses Luke's turmoil and believes he must resolve it on his own. In the cockpit of his X-wing Luke gives R2 the destination of home. Another X-wing, piloted by a mysterious individual in a metallic blue helmet, follows him at a safe distance.

Chapter Five

Luke and R2 arrive on Tatooine. Luke guides his X-wing to what remains of the Lars homestead, noting its damaged state. The sight of his aunt and uncle's graves and the vivid memory of their murder by Imperial Stormtroopers quickly shift his mood to anguish, reminding him of the event that propelled him into the Rebellion. Luke enters the vandalized garage, to find the machinery and tools destroyed. The central atrium is also in shambles, leading Luke to deduce that the Sand People were responsible for the damage. In his bedroom, he picks up a broken model of a tri-winged ship, which triggers a flood of nostalgic memories of his dreams of adventure and escape from the farm. He gently places the model back, then makes his way to his aunt and uncle's burial mounds. Kneeling before them, he expresses his apologies for their hasty burial and his departure, confessing that their killer was his own father. As he gets up to leave, Luke tells R2 there's one more place he needs to visit on Tatooine.

They arrive at Obi-Wan Kenobi’s hut, which also bears signs of Sand People vandalism. His gaze falls upon a familiar, metal chest (the one where Obi-Wan had kept Anakin’s lightsaber). He opens it, only to find it empty. He calls out to Obi-Wan for guidance and a the Force spirit of Obi-Wan Kenobi appears. Obi-Wan assures him that his father's fate was his own doing and that Luke saved him and reveals that Luke can find restoration and understanding at the "Heart of the Jedi" - a place of concentrated Force energy within a temple on the planet Angorathea. Obi-Wan then instructs him that the key to finding Angorathea is inscribed within a milk-crystal bowl kept in the hut. As Obi-Wan's image begins to fade, Luke despairs, realizing the hut has been looted and the bowl is likely gone. With Obi-Wan gone, Luke realizes the Sand People must have taken the bowl. He rushes from the hut with R2, unaware that a pilot in a blue helmet is stealthily observing their departure.

Chapter Six

High Admiral Tharkus receives a report from Pollux who has been spying on Luke. Pollux confirms that Luke is seeking a "Heart of the Jedi" and is preparing to travel by hover-scooter to retrieve a "stolen bowl" from the Sand People, which contains a clue to the planet's location. Tharkus, revealing the exceptional chameleon-like abilities of his Dioskouroi agents, expresses his satisfaction. He believes this "Heart of the Jedi" is the source of the Force's power, and he intends to either seize it for the Empire's own use as a weapon or destroy it and Luke entirely. General Kantos raises concerns about the Senate's peace initiative, but Tharkus dismisses them, declaring that the peace meeting must not take place. He views the senators as traitors and hints at sinister plans to eliminate them.

Luke crosses the sands of Tatooine where he has shed his flight suit for simple desert garb. He explains to R2 that the hover-scooter is too small and the desert too dangerous for the droid, instructing it to stay with the ship. Luke then mounts his hover-scooter before speeding off into the desert. Unseen by Luke, Pollux, transforms from his human disguise into a large, scaly Iktar, a flying scavenger. He takes to the sky, silently following Luke across the desert landscape.

Back at the Rebel base, Han oversees the loading of supplies onto the Millennium Falcon. His attention is diverted by the arrival of Leia with a strikingly handsome, younger man named Gowan of Galvoni III. Gowan graciously introduces himself as a prince with vast diplomatic experience, earning Leia's praise for his past achievements. Han realizes Gowan is joining their negotiating team, and a subtle tension arises as Gowan displays a familiar ease with Leia. Han's dry remarks reflect his annoyance, which increases when Leia asks for C-3PO to meet Gowan. Han states he sent C-3PO and Chewbacca to Eskendren City for a spare part and liquor. Leia reminds Han of their tight departure schedule, but Han dismisses her concerns.

C-3PO navigates the crowded, chaotic streets of Eskendren City. Shadowy figures in black cloaks emerge from an alley, abducting him and dragging him away as his case of ale crashes to the ground.

Chapter Seven

Luke riding on his hover-scooter, speeds across the Tatooine desert. Unbeknownst to him, Pollux, disguised as an Iktar, observes him from above. Luke spots unusual dusky ovals, which he cautiously approaches, using a dune for cover. Dismounting and pulling up his hood for camouflage, Luke climbs the dune and peers over the crest. Below, he discovers a cluster of large, circular holes which appear to be the dwellings of Sand People. As he descends into a dwelling a figure in brightly dyed robes emerges from an opening. Before Luke can react the figure, a Sand Person, strikes him with a stick, knocking him unconscious.

C-3PO is held in the basement of a building, restrained with shackles and covered with wires connecting him to a machine. Lieutenant Voss, an aide to High Admiral Tharkus, gloats over his handiwork and coldly informs him that not everyone desires peace and reveals their true intention: to learn the location of the peace meeting. C-3PO states he doesn't know the location as it hadn't yet been arranged when he left. Voss explains they intend to implant a transmitter in C-3PO and use a special code to extract the location once it's known. C-3PO refuses to betray his companions and cause. However, a small man introduced as “the doctor”, who is adept in "Artificial Intelligence Transmogrification", proudly states he can reprogram C-3PO, overriding his loyalty and personality. With a final flip of a switch, the machine hums to a roar, and energy courses through C-3PO's metallic body. He is enveloped in a blinding column of white light..

Luke regains consciousness to find himself spread-eagle on the sand, chained hand and foot to metal stakes under the harsh twin suns. He has been stripped to his trousers, and a curious, golden, sweet-smelling goo has been poured on his chest. He discovers he's in a round arena surrounded by the skeletal remains of others who suffered the same fate. He struggles against his strong chains, realizing his lightsaber is gone. He then attempts to use the Force to dislodge a stake above his head. The stake slowly begins to quiver and then inch upward. As he strains, drops of the sap fall to the ground. His concentration is broken by a peculiar drumming and hissing sound. He looks around to find a new line of dune forming, moving directly toward him. The movement stops abruptly, and two eyes pop into view from the sand.

Chapter Eight

Luke identifies the creature as a Dune Maggot, a large creature with swiveling eyes. The maggot uses a long, red, barbed tendril to explore its surroundings, and upon tasting the sap, it calls forth a dozen more of its kind by vibrating its tail. Trapped and facing imminent danger, Luke uses the Force to try and free himself from one of the stakes. He manages to pull the first stake free just as the lead maggot reaches him, impaling and killing it. Luke, still not fully free, uses the other two stakes as makeshift to defend himself, killing three more and wounding others, forcing the remaining creatures to retreat. Luke then proceeds to infiltrate a Sand People settlement. He makes his way to the central meeting place, a large atrium with a stone platform and concentric rings of benches. There, he is confronted by a tall, imposing Sand People warrior, clad in a brown burnoose and a desert mask, and armed with a gaffi stick. Despite Luke's attempts to communicate, the warrior responds with unintelligible grunts and trumpeting sounds, and soon, a score of other armed warriors surround Luke. An argument breaks out among the warriors, but the tall one asserts dominance, referring to something called the "O-Tal." The tall warrior then leads Luke into a dimly lit room. There, Luke notices various unusual objects, but his attention is drawn to the milk-crystal bowl. The warrior strikes a gong and begins to speak to him in basic, announcing that "The O-Tal will come soon."

Chapter Nine

Luke is surprised to discover that Jattal Or, the tall Sand People warrior, can speak his language, having learned it from a ‘Wizard’ who Luke identifies as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Jattal Or clarifies that their tribe, the Ghorfas people, recognized Ben's "power" and respected him, even becoming friends and leaving his dwelling unharmed, unlike other tribes. He states that Luke is alive because he also senses this "power" in him, but his fate rests with their chieftain, the O-Tal. The O-Tal, a massive figure in a dewback hide robe, enters and is amazed Luke survived the dune maggots and stakes, seeing it as a sign of unusual power. Luke, seeking the milk-crystal bowl taken from Ben Kenobi's home, angers the O-Tal, who accuses Luke's people of stealing their lands on Tatooine. Luke expresses regret and proposes a better relationship, but the O-Tal, filled with pride, firmly rejects any closer ties.. Despite the initial death sentence for violating their borders, the O-Tal spares Luke due to the "strange energy" he possessi. Instead, Luke is challenged to a fight to the death against the clan's champion, Dovra Ackru, a formidable warrior with the promise of his freedom and belongings if he wins.

Meanwhile, Han is struggling to load Leia's luggage onto the Millennium Falcon much to his annoyance and Gowan's amusement. Leia justifies the heavy luggage as necessary for the mission's formalities. Wedge approaches Han, revealing a troubling discovery: a pilot from Blue Flight was found dead, seemingly from a fall, but his fighter is missing. This unsettles Han, who decides to take extra precautions by zigzagging their course to ensure they aren't followed. Leia, worried about the importance of their mission and the delay of Chewie and Threepio's return.

Chapter Ten

Luke is being armored by Jattal Or, with leather sheaths for his legs and arms to protect him from the rough hide of the bantha he will ride. During this preparation, a masked warrior approaches Luke. This warrior, who has lived among Luke's people, warns him that the upcoming fight will be fatal. He urges Luke to use the Force to gain an advantage, but Luke, adhering to his Jedi principles, refuses to use it for an unfair advantage. The mysterious warrior then offers that Luke should select the bantha with a twisted horn as it will be the most docile. Jattal Or returns, providing Luke with a gaderffii (gaffi stick). He expresses skepticism about Luke's chances against Dovra Ackru citing his own past defeat and scar.

Luke, following the secret warrior's advice, chooses the bantha with a twisted horn. The O-Tal formally outlines the rules of the fight. Luke and Dovra Ackru don chest plates and helmets and mount their banthas. Twenty-four other warriors also mount banthas, forming a two-hundred-yard circle around the combatants. The O-Tal signals the start of the match. Dovra Ackru immediately urges his bantha forward, and Luke's chosen bantha surprisingly responds instantly to his commands, veering and turning as instructed. As the fight continues, Luke's bantha, seemingly anticipating his needs, maneuvers to face the champion's beast. The battle intensifies, with Dovra Ackru shifting tactics to gain an advantage by making a tighter turn and attempting to flank Luke. In a critical move, the champion manages to disarm Luke, tearing his gaffi stick from his grasp and sending it flying. Dovra Ackru lets out a triumphant bellow, poised to deliver a final, fatal strike.

Chapter Eleven

When Dovra Ackru has Luke disarmed, Luke's bantha unexpectedly headbutts the champion's mount, creating an opening. Luke uses the opportunity to leap onto Dovra Ackru's bantha and grapple for the gaffi stick before falling to the ground. Luke climbs back up the bantha's side and grabs onto the warrior's leggings pulling them both off the bantha. Dovra Ackru crashes to the ground, stunned. Luke picks up the gaffi stick but hesitates. The O-Tal and Jattal Or approach, with the other Sand People warriors forming a circle around them. Luke refuses to kill Dovra Ackru. Impressed by Luke's compassion and extraordinary skill, the O-Tal accepts the life of his champion from Luke and grants Luke his freedom.

Jattal Or tends to Luke's injuries with a healing salve made from a rare desert plant. The Sand People return Luke's utility belt, including his lightsaber. The O-Tal then presents Luke with the milk-crystal bowl as a gift of friendship. The Sand People escort Luke to his sand skimmer, bidding him farewell and expressing a hope for future, more respectful interactions between their peoples.

Meanwhile, on the Millennium Falcon, Leia and Gowan are reviewing mission protocols. Chewbacca and C-3PO finally arrive, relieving Han and Leia. Leia scolds them for their tardiness, but C-3PO primly assures them they won't cause delays. Han tasks C-3PO with a final diagnostic of the navicomp system, while Leia informs the droid he'll be their chief assistant on the mission.

Chapter Twelve

The Millennium Falcon leaves the base, escorted by Wedge’s Gold Squadron. Once in deep space, Han plots a course to their destination, which he keeps secret from everyone, including Leia, for security reasons. He then heads to the central cabin, where he finds Gowan but notices that Leia is absent. Leia emerges, transformed from her usual military attire into a flowing green gown with her hair loose. Han, initially speechless, struggles to articulate his surprise at her changed look. A tense conversation ensues, as Han expresses his feelings about their differing social statuses, implying that Leia, as a "princess" is better suited for someone like Gowan. He suggests their shared experiences during desperate times shouldn't be confused with love. Leia is outraged, asserting her feelings are only for him. Gowan returns, interrupting their heated exchange, and dismisses Han to allow him and Leia to focus on their mission preparations. Han retreats to the cockpit. He's further agitated to find C-3PO in his pilot's seat. C-3PO, now acting with newfound independence, informs Han that he will no longer be Han's slave and his loyalty is now solely to Leia.

Meanwhile, Luke is by a fire near Obi-Wan Kenobi's old hut, studying the milk-crystal bowl he received from the Sand People. He is frustrated, unable to find any way to open it or discern its secrets, despite Obi-Wan having told him it held the key to Angorathea. Luke has a realization that this is a test of a Jedi where he must use the Force to unlock the bowl's secrets. He concentrates his powers on the bowl, remembering Yoda's teachings about control and connecting to the energy within. The bowl begins to glow from within, radiating a silvery luminescence. The glowing bowl expands dramatically, revealing a swirling, translucent image of a planet with blue oceans and brown and green continents. Luke recognizes it as Angorathea. A complex grid of energy lines appears over the planet, with many threads extending into space. He focuses on a particularly bright, ruby-red, pulsating point in an ocean section, which he believes is the "Heart of the Jedi." He asks R2 to identify the precise location of the planet, and the droid confirms it can guide him. With the coordinates seemingly found, the glowing bowl shrinks back to its original size. Realizing their X-wing is unsuitable for such a trip, Luke decides they need a sturdier ship and concludes that the only place to find one is the spaceport of Mos Eisley.

Chapter Thirteen

Tharkus oversees the final preparations of an Imperial Star Destroyer in orbit above a small moon. A large squadron of TIE fighters is boarding the vessel, bringing its total fighter complement to four full squadrons. Captain Vaskor the ship's disciplined captain, confirms that all requested additional equipment is aboard. Lieutenant Voss reports that the protocol droid's transmission of coordinates has been received. Tharkus orders an immediate departure after the last fighter is aboard and inquires about Luke Skywalker, learning he is still heading to Mos Eisley Spaceport.

Luke and R2 arrive at the outskirts of Mos Eisley. Luke, disguised in a hood and cloak, navigates the unkempt roads. His goal is to acquire a ship, but with limited credits, he decides to try his luck at the Mos Eisley Cantina, recalling Han’s story of winning the Millennium Falcon in a card game. Inside the cantina, Luke finds a subdued atmosphere with few patrons. He approaches a hexagon-shaped table where a card game is in progress. Luke buys in with 650 credits, barely enough for a minimum stake. As the game begins, a small, nondescript man at the bar, seemingly disinterested, covertly watches Luke. Another player, a walrus-faced Aqualish with a crude mechanical arm named Ponda Baba, joins the game. Ponda believes he recognizes Luke and questions his identity, growing increasingly aggressive. The mustached man intervenes, telling Ponda to focus on the game and his partner, Evazan, who seems to bring trouble.

The card game continues and Luke's luck turns sour which quickly depletes his credits. With only 200 credits left, he expresses confidence that his luck will change. With only three players remaining, one player makes a daring raise of 500 credits, forcing Ponda to fold. Luke, with no money left, boldly offers to put up R2-D2 as collateral, valuing the astromech droid at 1000 credits causing the player to fold. Luke decides to cash out, much to the dismay of Ponda and the Devaronian. As Luke collects his winnings, the player asks what hand he had, and Luke reveals he only had two pairs. As Luke puts away his credits, his robe shifts, revealing his lightsaber to Ponda. A flicker of recognition lights up Ponda's eyes. As Luke stands to leave, Ponda's metal claw suddenly clamps onto his arm.

Chapter Fourteen

Ponda recognizes Luke as the one who severed his arm four years prior and, fueled by rage, pulls a blaster. Luke acts swiftly, headbutting Ponda, disarming him, and then drawing his lightsaber. He then forces him to drop his weapon. Luke attempts to leave peacefully but stormtroopers burst into the cantina forcing Luke to flee through a storeroom. He then races back to the front of the cantina, shouting for R2 to follow. They lead the troopers on a chase through the side streets. Realizing his lightsaber has been seen, making him a target, Luke decides they need to leave Tatooine quickly. He plans to find a used ship from a Vuvrian dealer named Wioslea, to whom he once sold his landspeeder. As they continue on, an inconspicuous orange cat secretly follows them.

The Millennium Falcon along with Gold Squadron exits hyperspace near a bleak, gray-brown planet called Pellkadarr. Han reveals that only he and Senator Valladian know the precise rendezvous point, which is meant to be hidden. Han initiates a dive towards the planet's surface. Just before impact, Han steers the Falcon into a smooth-walled vertical tunnel, leading them five miles deep into an ancient underground cavern. They spot a small base with a Lambda-class shuttle, indicating that the Imperial party has arrived first. Confirming no other ships are present, Han prepares to land. Leia identifies the waiting group as senators, with Senator Valladian among them. Han a descends the ramp with Chewbacca to meet the Imperial delegation. Senator Valladian, a frail but distinguished man, greets Han.

Chapter Fifteen

Luke awakens in a storage room in Mos Eisley as the dealer, Wioslea, announces his new ship is ready. The ship in question is a YT-1760. Luke powers up the ship as a Jawa from Wioslea's crew discreetly slips away, unnoticed. Once off of Tatooine, Luke settles into his journey, relaxing for the long trip to the Unknown Regions. A warning buzzer sounds, indicating the ship is dropping out of hyperspace. Luke discovers they're caught in the gravitational field of a sun. The engines are out, and the ship's computer reports rising hull temperatures, with only five minutes until total destruction. R2 confirms that the flight computer, hyperdrive, and power couplings are all shorted, with no chance of repair.

In the smuggler's base, the peace meeting between the Alliance and Imperial delegates is about to begin. Han, Leia and Senator Valladian are talking but their conversation is cut short by a tremor, causing the base to shake. They all head outside but as they emerge, they see three Imperial ST-AMs, also known as "Hedgehogs," descending through drilled holes in the ceiling. The ST-AMs open fire, destroying buildings and killing several senators. Han grabs Leia, urging everyone to get to their ships. Wedge and his Gold Squadron pilots race for their X-wings, while Chewie heads for the Falcon. Valladian stands stunned but Han pulls Valladian towards the Falcon, while Gowan and C-3PO rush ahead. Inside the Falcon, Han and Chewie prepare for takeoff. Another turbolaser blast destroys the Imperial shuttle, killing all remaining senators. As the Falcon lifts off, the X-wings engage the ST-AMs and TIE fighters, distracting the Imperial forces. Han navigates the Falcon through a barrage of laser fire, but their rear deflector is hit.

Tharkus, observing the battle from his Star Destroyer, orders his TIE fighters to pursue the Falcon. As Han attempts to find another tunnel to the surface, Tharkus contacts the Falcon, demanding their surrender. Valladian identifies Tharkus, accusing him of treason and breaking the treaty. Tharkus, in turn, labels Valladian and his senators as traitors, sentencing them to death. Han spots another tunnel to the surface, but a dozen TIE fighters descend, blocking his path. He executes a sharp turn, evading the initial TIEs, only to find himself with two dozen enemies behind him and dozens more creating a barrier ahead.

Chapter Sixteen

The computer on Luke’s ship counts down to integrity breakdown as Luke tries to fix the fused circuits, realizing it's an impossible task. An image of Yoda appears before him scolding Luke for his recklessness and headstrong nature. Despite Luke's pleas for help, Yoda states his time is over and simply reminds him that the "real power of the Force wells from a peaceful mind" before vanishing. With only seconds left before impact the ship is abruptly gripped by a tractor beam, pulling it away from the sun. Luke realizes they've been captured by an unknown vessel and the ship is drawn inside the larger vessel. As Luke and R2 prepare for whatever awaits, a knocking sounds from the outer hull door. Luke opens it to find a an Ewok who introduces himself as Captain Lucky Thatch of the salvage scow Entrepreneur.

Han decides to man the quad guns and orders Gowan to take the lower guns. C-3PO then outright refuses to obey Han's orders, openly expressing venomous contempt for "rebel scum" and assaulting Han. Valladian deactivates C-3PO, saving Han from being choked. Leia spots a new, downward-sloping tunnel and orders Chewie to take them into it. Han takes the controls, guiding the Falcon through the twisting, narrow passage with seven pursuing TIE fighters. The tunnel leads them into another cavern. This cavern's floor is covered in what Han initially dismisses as "dried grass."Chewbacca points out that one of the lumps is moving. These are revealed to be subterranean beasts, now being awakened by the ship's noise. The creatures begin to surge upwards proving deadly to the less agile TIE fighters, which are swatted from the air. Han maneuvers the Falcon through the heaving mass of monstrous bodies, staying close to the ceiling. Leia spots an opening in a wall ahead, the end of the cavern. Han narrowly threads the Falcon through the rapidly closing gap with the lead TIE fighter attempting to follow but is crushed. The remaining three TIE fighters are forced to turn back, leaving the Falcon momentarily safe from pursuit.

Chapter Seventeen

Thatch explains he found Luke adrift after an energy surge incapacitated his vessel. Luke apologizes for his reaction and expresses gratitude for the rescue. Thatch, a well-traveled and multilingual Ewok, shares his story of leaving his homeworld for a life of adventure. He shrewdly deduces Luke's identity as Luke Skywalker, recognizing his lightsaber, his blue astromech droid, and his recent departure from Tatooine following an Imperial incident. Luke admits his identity and his quest to reach the Unknown Regions for a personal mission. Thatch's floating droid assistant, Mack, confirms R2's assessment that Luke's ship is irreparably damaged. Seeing Luke's predicament, Captain Thatch insists on providing transport as a way of repaying Luke for his past help to the Ewok people. Luke accepts Thatch's offer.

The Millennium Falcon remains hidden, grappling to a cavern wall. Chewbacca manages to restore some of the Falcon's systems, though the shields remain precarious. Han discusses with Leia and Valladian the topic of how Tharkus learned of their secret meeting. Gowan, Leia, and Valladian deny any leaks from their respective sides. Suspicion falls on the deactivated C-3PO. Han recounts Threepio's recent hostile outburst. Leia is swayed by Han's reasoning that the Empire must have messed with him. Han orders Chewie to "explore" Threepio's memory.

C-3PO's disassembled head sits on a work table as Chewbacca connects a diagnostic analyzer to its circuits. Chewbacca finds a transmitter hidden within Threepio, which he promptly crushes, preventing any further data leaks to the Empire. When the analyzer is activated, Threepio's eyes flicker, and his voice sputters out fragmented memories. As Chewie carefully probes deeper, more recent, disjointed phrases emerge, including where Threepio's voice changes to one of screams. Further probing reveals a final, mechanically delivered message: "...will send coordinates back... Tharkus... kill senators... destroy peace conference... find... the... hea...ea...hea..." Leia urges Chewie to push harder. Despite the risk to the droid, a final, strained phrase is extracted: "...the... heart... of the... Je... Je... Jed... Jedi..." The effort overloads the system, giving Chewie a shock and rendering further memory access impossible. Han explains that the reprogramming is "irreversible," and attempting to reverse it would wipe Threepio's mind completely. The group collectively deduce that Tharkus is after Luke.

Chapter Eighteen

On the bridge of a Star Destroyer, Captain Vaskor reports to Tharkus that there's been no further contact with the Millennium Falcon. Two surviving pilots claim the Falcon was destroyed, a story Tharkus accepts. He orders to recall the search parties and make preparations to leave within the hour. Han and Leia watch the Imperial withdrawal from the Falcon on their sensor monitor. Han observes the Star Destroyer pulling in its forces, confirming their departure. He checks in with Chewie, who is still repairing the port shield. Han decides they need to prepare for departure. Leia then asks Han where they are going and Han indicates that they need to find Luke before Tharkus does.

Luke watches as service droids sort through a pile of junk. Thatch joins Luke and talks about the adventure of scavenging, stating that he owes nothing to anyone. As they walk through the ship, Thatch describes the immense amount of trash discarded across the galaxy and emphasizes his selective approach to salvaging. Thatch leaves to adjust their course, mentioning they're heading towards the edge of the Unknown Regions to avoid Imperial contact. Alone, Luke wanders through the vast storeroom, feeling the "strong presence" of past lives attached to the objects. He finds bins of old weapons and ornamental stones before entering a section dedicated to clothing. He eyes a simple black Jedi-like outfit but is drawn to a splendid, deep green velvet coat. As he considers trying it on, he notices a faint yellow light through a gap in the clothes. Luke finds a small, locked door. He presses the button, the light turns red, and the door clicks open, revealing a dazzling treasure trove of coins, jewels, and precious metals, dominated by a seven-foot golden lion statue. As Luke stares in awe, Thatch appears and reveals that this is how he earned his nickname, "Lucky." Thatch closes the door and tells Luke they need to get some food and discuss their plans as they will soon reach Imperial Space.

Chapter Nineteen

Han emerges from the Mos Eisley Cantina, joining Leia and Gowan. Han informs them he checked a police report about a lightsaber fight, confirming Luke was likely there. Leia confirms Luke's presence through a faint Force impression. Leia, concentrating, senses Luke's urgent aura and believes he headed down a specific side street. Following Leia's Force impressions, they reach a dead end. Leia's sense of Luke vanishes there. Han, realizing Luke must have come to buy something, recognizes the symbols above the gate. He knocks, and a Jawa opens it, leading them to the Vuvrian, Wioslea. Han asks Wioslea about Luke looking to buy a ship. Wioslea confirms selling Luke an upgraded YT-1760 for an inexplicably low cash price. Wioslea has no information on Luke's destination. He only mentions that Luke seemed rushed and that, coincidentally, a Jawa mechanic's body was found after Luke left. Han then asks about Luke's own ship, but Wioslea insists Luke arrived on foot. Han and Leia exchange a knowing look, realizing Luke must have left his X-wing somewhere in the desert.

Luke is luxuriating in a warm bath. He muses about Captain Thatch, admiring his peaceful, independent life as a junkman, a stark contrast to Luke's own life consumed by war and the burdens of being a Jedi. R2 helps Luke scrub his back, which is marked with bruises and lacerations from his recent scrapes. Luke's thoughts drift to the galaxy after the war, contemplating a future where the Empire has surrendered and there's less need for a Jedi. Thatch's voice comes over the intercom, calling Luke to the bridge as they are about to enter an Imperial zone. Luke, refreshed and having changed into a flamboyant new outfit from Thatch's salvaged clothes joins the Ewok on the bridge. Thatch compliments his new look and shows Luke a monitor displaying Imperial Space, the last outposts of the Empire. He reassures Luke that their chosen course will avoid Imperial contact. Luke points to another monitor, showing an Imperial light cruiser rapidly approaching from their stern. An officious voice then crackles over the comms, demanding their unidentified ship stand by to be boarded.

Chapter Twenty

Luke grows concerned as the Imperial cruiser is faster than the Entrepreneur. Thatch initially dismisses the threat, suggesting it's a routine check. Luke's worries however that his presence, particularly his lightsaber and the recognizable R2 unit, makes him a liability. Thatch quickly orders his droid, Mack, to hide R2. Luke places his lightsaber inside R2-D2's storage compartment before the droid is taken away. As the Imperial ship prepares to fire, Thatch cleverly feigns a transmitter problem and immediately shuts down their engines, bringing the Entrepreneur to a stop. An Imperial shuttle then approaches and docks inside the Entrepreneur's main bay, landing near where Luke's ship and R2-D2 are now concealed.

Commander Ghek leads a small boarding party. Thatch, adopting an obsequious persona, introduces himself. He introduces Luke as his first mate, "Lykus Signus." Ghek orders his men to search the ship while he goes to the bridge. On the bridge, Ghek interrogates Thatch about their origin and destination. Thatch gives vague answers until Ghek threatens to check the ship's flight records, at which point Thatch claims they came from a moon in the Arkanis sector. Ghek reveals they are looking for a dangerous criminal from Tatooine who killed several men and was tracked heading in their direction. Thatch denies any knowledge. Two crewmen return to the bridge, presenting a pile of Luke's garments found in a disposal bin. Ghek immediately connects the sand to Tatooine. Enraged, he strikes Thatch, knocking him to the deck, and accuses him of lying. Ghek then turns his attention to Luke, having him restrained and threatening him with a powerful, glowing blue interrogation prod. Luke denies the clothes are his and that he is from Tatooine. As Ghek prepares to escalate the torture, Thatch, seemingly in pain, betrays Luke. He whines to Ghek that he saved Luke's broken-down ship near Tatooine and only took him aboard because Luke threatened him. Intrigued, Ghek demands to see Luke's lightsaber, suspecting Luke might be the infamous Skywalker. Thatch offers to retrieve the weapon if Ghek promises to let him go. Ghek agrees.

Chapter Twenty-One

As Commander Ghek interrogates Luke, Thatch seizes an opportunity. With surprising agility, he grabs the Imperial prod from Ghek and stabs him, incapacitating the officer. Their attention turned, Luke disarms the two guards holding him. Thatch mercilessly hurls the prod, impaling the final man, killing him Thatch then moves to the controls, revealing his plan to use the ship's tractor beams. He quickly activates them, violently pulling the Imperial cruiser alongside the Entrepreneur and smashing it against their heavily armored hull, destroying its turbolaser batteries. With the cruiser immobilized, Thatch activates dismantling torches causing chaos, explosions, and widespread destruction across the Imperial ship. Many Imperial crewmen are trapped and killed, but a dozen or so escape pods manage to launch. Luke is dismayed by the carnage.

Han, Leia, and Chewie are searching for Luke’s X-wing Leia senses the hidden X-wing nestled against a ridge, which Han confirms is Luke's. They also spot another X-wing on the ridge itself. Han sends Chewie to check the second fighter while he and Leia search Luke's. Inside the Falcon, Senator Valladian delivers a message from Mon Mothma, confirming the ceasefire still holds and authorizing them to find and protect Luke. Han and Leia find nothing helpful in Luke's X-wing. They then search the nearby abandoned house. Leia's Force sense guides her to a buried object outside the house. With Han's reluctant help they unearth a hidden milk-white crystal bowl. Inside, Leia finds a transmission disk. Back on the Falcon, they play the disk, revealing a 3-D holographic message from Luke. He addresses Leia, stating he knew she would find the message if something happened to him. He reveals he's going into the Unknown Regions alone to uncover a secret of the Jedi held within the bowl, asking her to keep it safe and not follow him. Leia attempts to use the Force on the bowl, getting a vague sense of a planet strong in the force. Chewie returns, reporting the second X-wing is empty except for a Blue Flight Squadron pilot's helmet. Leia identifies it, and Han connects it to a dead Blue Squadron pilot whose ship went missing. Leia realizes someone is actively pursuing Luke. Valladian suggests it could be an assassin sent by Tharkus. Leia anxiously insists they must follow Luke to warn and help him, despite Luke's message asking her not to. They prepare to set off in the Falcon.

Chapter Twenty-Two

The Entrepreneur crosses into the Unknown Regions. Luke and Thatch discuss more Lukes inner turmoil with Thatch ultimately advising Luke to follow the path he is on now. Thatch, demonstrating his honor, refuses to know the exact coordinates of Luke's destination, offering his personal shuttle for Luke to complete the final leg of his journey alone, ensuring his privacy. Luke gratefully accepts Thatch's wisdom.

Later, Luke experiences a vivid dream where he finds himself in a dark cavern, surrounded by monstrous creatures all attacking him. An echoing voice urges him to "Use the Force." He does, and the creatures recoil in fear from his ignited lightsaber. Darth Vader appears, urging Luke to unleash his anger and destroy his enemies. Vader then transforms into a benevolent, shimmering figure claiming to be Luke's father, compelling him to embrace the Force. This is followed by Han who encourages Luke to forget the Jedi and join him in a more practical life. Han then shifts into Uncle Owen, who chastises Luke for abandoning his responsibilities. Obi-Wan Kenobi appears, sternly telling Luke there's no choice but to embrace his Jedi destiny. Finally, Yoda appears, emphasizing that the Force cannot control him unless he allows it. Yoda's form then grotesquely swells and transforms into a shadowy, sinister figure, a dark version of Luke himself, who urges him to embrace the dark side and follow his instincts. Luke screams and wakes up, sweating and disoriented.

Luke dresses and heads to the bridge, where Thatch is. Luke describes his heightened senses. Thatch's instruments then confirm they are shadowed and surrounded by an unknown fleet of small to medium-sized ships. These ships are bizarre, rag-tag, and lavishly decorated with unique markings that obscure their origins. Despite Thatch's suggestion to blast through, Luke senses no hostility and insists on seeing what they want. The Entrepreneur slows down, and the mysterious fleet forms a hollow sphere around it. They are hailed by an informal voice, questioning their presence in the Unknown Regions. Luke explains he's on a "private mission" and means no harm, identifying himself as a "pilgrim." The voice invites Luke to come aboard their lead ship to prove he's no threat. A cluster of ships parts, revealing a much larger, unusual bioship with a transparent central dome revealing vegetation inside. Thatch expresses his unease, but Luke decides to go alone, so Thatch can escape if things go wrong. Thatch reluctantly agrees and offers to show Luke his shuttle for the final approach. Luke accepts the invitation.

Chapter Twenty-Three

The Millennium Falcon approaches the derelict Imperial patrol ship whose hull is riddled with holes. Leia has a strong feeling that Luke was indeed involved. Han simply accepts it as a sign they're on the right track. Leia and Han share a moment of intimacy which is interrupted by Senator Valladian. Leia informs Valladian that their next course will take them through Imperial territory and into the Unknown Regions. She offers to drop him off, but Valladian insists on accompanying them. He explains that Tharkus's actions have severely damaged the peace efforts, and he must stop Tharkus from reigniting the war.

On his Star Destroyer, Tharkus is playing a strategy game with General Kantos. Captain Vaskor reports that they have entered the Unknown Regions and that rumors are successfully spreading within the Empire that the peace meeting was a Rebel trap. This fabricated narrative is generating outrage and calls to end the truce. Tharkus gloats to Kantos that his plan is unfolding as intended, with the "New Republic" being blamed and the desire for war growing. Kantos shrewdly observes Tharkus's growing interest in controlling the Force. Tharkus admits this, believing his will is as strong as the Emperor's and that it's his duty to try to make the Force serve the Empire.

Back on the Falcon, Chewie attempts to repair C-3PO and manages to restore some motor functions. He intentionally avoids higher-level functions. When activated, C-3PO speaks in his recognizable voice but with an emotionless drone, unable to recall Leia. Leia mourns the loss of C-3PO's personality. Han shares her regret, apologizing for his past treatment of the droid. As Han and Chewie return to the cockpit to cross the frontier, Leia reiterates that she knows Luke is ahead of them, while Han reminds her that somebody else is too.

Chapter Twenty-Four

Luke pilots a small shuttle towards the bioship. He lands his shuttle on a landing pad at the base of the ship's central dome, which houses a vast, green, rainforest environment. Before exiting, Luke intentionally leaves his blaster and lightsaber in the shuttle.

Upon entering the bioship, Luke is greeted by a diverse group of beings.. A furry creature acting as a greeter, questions his origin. Luke cautiously asks about their allegiance to the Empire, which elicits laughter from the crowd. They reveal they are all fugitives from the Empire, having fled war, conscription, or military desertion. A tattooed humanoid named Storm pushes forward, demanding Luke's identity, suspecting him of being an Imperial spy. A young woman with white-gold hair, Aislinn, confidently asserts that Luke is not deceitful. Luke introduces himself and informs the group that the war has ended and peace negotiations are underway. Storm remains skeptical, but the simian-like creature suggests Luke meet the "Sky Pilot." Aislinn takes Luke's hand and leads him into the central dome's dense vegetation. As they walk through the ship Luke learns that the bioship was created by their leader, the Sky Pilot, to preserve segments of nature from threatened planets.

They arrive at the core of the dome where a copper-skinned humanoid sat cross-legged by the central stone. This is Nestor, the Sky Pilot. Storm bluntly states their distrust of Luke, but the Sky Pilot, with a warm smile, invites Luke forward. The Sky Pilot senses a strange presence about Luke and recognizes his name and introduces their group as the Children of the Force. Despite the idyllic life and Aislinn's eager invitation, Luke declines to join them. The Sky Pilot confirms his knowledge of the “Heart of the Jedi,” but reveals that attempts by their members to reach it resulted in their disappearance. Luke clarifies he is a Jedi Knight, trained by the last two Jedi. The Sky Pilot, sensing Luke's power, asks him to demonstrate it to the others. Luke agrees, walking to the center of the ring. He levitates the central stone, then the surrounding standing stones. The Sky Pilot, filled with awe, confirms Luke's Jedi power.

Chapter Twenty-Five

Aislinn, the Sky Pilot, and other Children of the Force escort Luke back to his shuttle. They try to convince him to stay, offering him leadership of their community and the opportunity to create a new society based on peace and the Force. Luke declines, explaining that he is not a Master and needs to continue his quest to find his answers. The Sky Pilot expresses confidence that Luke will return to lead them once he is secure in his identity as a Jedi. Luke bids them farewell. Aislinn kisses him lightly on the cheek. Even Storm, the former Imperial soldier, offers a handshake, showing a newfound acceptance and wishing Luke success in finding his answers. Luke departs in his shuttle back to the Entrepreneur.

On the Millennium Falcon, Leia is attempting to teach Gowan how to use a blaster, with little success. Senator Valladian demonstrates his own proficient shooting skills. Han announces they have entered the Unknown Regions. Leia leaves Gowan under Valladian's tutelage. In the cockpit, Leia falls into a trance-like state, then reveals she can sense Luke urging Han to let her pilot by feel. Han agrees.

Tharkus is informed that Luke’s destination has been pinpointed within the Unknown Regions. Despite the risks of navigating this uncharted territory at sublight speed, Tharkus orders a direct course. The Children of the Force’s ships appear, forming a screen across the Star Destroyer's path. On the bioship, the Sky Pilot and his followers are interrupted from meditation by the news of the approaching Imperial vessel. He orders his ships not to scatter, intending to meet them in peace. Tharkus orders his Star Destroyer to stop. He receives a hail from the bioship, welcoming them in the name of peace. Tharkus deduces that Skywalker must have been there and shared the news. Sensors confirm that in fact the ships are unarmed. Dismissing them as pacifists, Tharkus orders his captain to fire. On the bioship, the Sky Pilot suddenly feels a dark presence and realizes Tharkus intends to destroy them. He frantically tries to warn his ships to scatter, but it's too late. The Star Destroyer unleashes a torrent of turbolaser fire. The unarmed ships, packed densely together, are decimated. Dozens explode instantly. The Sky Pilot cries out in anguish as his people are slaughtered, unable to comprehend such brutality. The remaining Children of the Force scatter in all directions. Tharkus coldly notes that only a few dozen escaped, but declares their time will come. He then orders his ship to continue towards Luke's rendezvous point.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Han navigates a field of destroyed ships and they discover the damaged bioship surrounded by a few smaller, brightly-painted vessels. The bioship's leader, Storm, reveals they were attacked by an Imperial Star Destroyer and believed there was an armistice. Han and Leia ask if the Star Destroyer was following anyone. The Sky Pilot, who is dying, tells them the Star Destroyer was indeed following Luke to a planet strong in the Force and implores Storm to help Han and Leia. Storm offers to assist but Han declines and flies off. Storm decides to pursue them alone after ordering his people to evacuate.

Luke arrives at the water planet Angorathea and immediately recognizes a large, perfectly circular island with a fortress-like structure, which he believes is the Temple of the Heart. He dismisses Thatch's practical concerns about landing and insists on going down with R2. Upon landing on a beach, Luke encounters an intelligent creature called Lazhuwan that communicates telepathically. The creature explains that it and its kind are the planet's sole intelligent inhabitants, deeply connected to the Force, and that the Temple of the Heart was built by the Je'daii.. Just as Luke prepares to approach the temple, an AT-AT Swimmer surfaces from the ocean, and stormtroopers emerge from around the temple wall. Tharkus appears from the Swimmer, revealing he tracked Luke. Thatch emerges from the Swimmer as well, shedding his Ewok disguise to reveal his true form as Pollux, a translucent, blue-white humanoid.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

General Kantos and a team of stormtroopers attempt to breach the Jedi temple's outer wall with turbolasers, but the wall proves impervious to their attacks. On the beach, Tharkus, Luke, and Pollux observe the efforts. Luke learns of Pollux's extensive deception, including sabotaging his ship, impersonating various individuals along his journey, and orchestrating the destruction of an Imperial patrol ship to gain Luke's trust. As the turbolasers fail to penetrate the temple wall, Tharkus orders the larger guns of the Swimmer to fire, but they also prove ineffective due to an invisible force shield. A TIE fighter then attempts to scout from above, but it too is repelled by an unseen barrier. Realizing they still need Luke, Tharkus orders his capture, intending to force him to open the temple.

Meanwhile the Falcon approaches the island from the north to avoid detection. They encounter a Lazhuwan which C-3PO translates for. The Lazhuwan confirms that Luke has been captured by Imperial forces on the opposite side of the island and then they offer to transport them by sea, pulling their inflatable rafts. The Lazhuwan swiftly carry them around the island to a point near the Imperial forces. Upon observing the Imperial setup, they see Luke suspended between two poles, with a doctor attaching wires to him for what C-3PO identifies as mind transmogrify. Leia expresses urgency to stop it, feeling Luke's distress. Han devises a plan for Leia, Gowan, and Valladian to create a diversion, while he and Chewie sneak in to rescue Luke. However, Gowan turns his blaster on Leia, betraying them and stating he will shoot her if they attempt anything.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Tharkus is overseeing Doctor Sarth's preparations to use a mental transmogrifier on Luke to break his will and force him to open the temple. The doctor admits the device hasn't been tested on an organic being and could cause cell damage. Just as Tharkus is about to allow the procedure, Han, Chewbacca, Valladian, and C-3PO arrive on the beach. They are followed by Gowan, who holds Leia at blaster-point, revealing his true allegiance. Gowan then transforms into Kastor, revealing himself as Pollux's twin brother and another shapeshifter loyal to Tharkus. Kastor boasts about intercepting the real Prince Gowan and taking his place to infiltrate the Alliance. Tharkus, seeing his leverage, orders Luke disconnected from the machine. Tharkus then threatens their lives unless Luke agrees to lead them into the temple. To demonstrate his ruthlessness, Tharkus brutally executes Senator Valladian with a blaster shot. Luke's friends urge him not to give in, but Luke, seeing no other choice, reluctantly agrees to lead the Imperials into the temple to save his friends. Tharkus orders Luke's companions to be confined safely within the Imperial Swimmer, promising their release afterward. They are led into a cell, where they are surprised to find R2-D2, who is distraught to find C-3PO's memory has been wiped.

Luke, accompanied by Tharkus, the twin shapeshifters, and a squad of stormtroopers, approaches the temple wall. Despite not knowing how to open it, Luke sits down and concentrates, causing a section of the wall to shimmer and vanish, revealing an arched portal. Inside, they encounter the skeletal remains of someone who apparently perished after being trapped when the portal closed. Luke explains that the Force does not kill, but those who attempt to wield power they are not entitled to risk death. He warns Tharkus that he might not be strong enough to keep the door open indefinitely. Tharkus orders them forward. Luke, guided by the Force, navigates them through a complex maze of corridors, revealing that the temple is a gigantic labyrinth designed to test Force-users. They find more skeletons of those who failed, reinforcing the deadly nature of the temple for those without sufficient connection to the Force. Luke emphasizes that the Force is guiding him to the "Heart," which is the only way they will find their way through the maze.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Leia bandages Han's head wound while R2 uses a maintenance arm to connect to C-3PO's back, restoring his personality and memories. C-3PO is disoriented but relieved to be back. Meanwhile, outside their cell, the Lazhuwan begin to swarm and strike the Imperial Swimmer. General Kantos, commanding the Swimmer, dismisses their actions as harmless, but the creatures soon begin to work in concert, making the massive machine rock violently. Leia realizes they are creating a distraction for their escape. C-3PO reveals that R2 can hack the locking mechanism. R2 quickly cuts through the bulkhead, exposing wires. Han crosses two wires, and the cell door clicks open. As the Swimmer continues to rock violently, stormtroopers are sent to repel the Lazhuwan, but the agile creatures leap from the water, knocking several troopers overboard. As Han, Leia, Chewbacca, and the droids ascend through the ship, they witness the Lazhuwan sacrificing themselves by swimming into the Swimmer's exhaust vents, causing the engines to overload. Knowing the ship is about to explode, Han shoves Leia off the Swimmer and the massive vessel explodes behind them.

Luke encounters a bottomless pit. Tharkus wants to find another way around, but Luke insists this is another test and the only way forward. Recalling Obi-Wan's lesson about trusting the Force over one's senses, Luke closes his eyes and steps out onto what appears to be empty space. To the astonishment of the Imperials, he walks safely across the invisible pathway, which then solidifies once he reaches the other side. Tharkus, though wary, orders his troopers to follow, and they too cross safely.

Chapter Thirty

Han, Leia, and Chewbacca enter the Jedi labyrinth, followed by Artoo and Threepio. Threepio reveals that both droids carry backup memory banks for each other, allowing for complete restoration. Leia, using her innate Force sensitivity, senses Luke's presence and guides them through the maze.

Luke and his Imperial escort face an impenetrable stone block. Luke, drawing on a memory of Yoda, concentrates and uses the Force to effortlessly slide the enormous stone aside, astounding Tharkus. They enter the temple's central chamber, a vast circular space surrounded by twelve monoliths. At the very center lies a simple dolmen containing the Heart of the Jedi, a spherical, pulsing, blood-red stone, radiating a powerful light. Luke is drawn to its power. As Luke approaches the Heart, the spirit of Anakin Skywalker appears. Anakin congratulates Luke for passing the tests and reaching the Heart, asking why he seeks it. Luke replies, To know. To understand. To be restored. Anakin explains that the Heart offers immense power and a deep connection to the Force, but at the cost of changing him, making him fully devoted to the Jedi Order and its revival. He warns Luke that the choice must be his alone. Before Luke can fully explain his companions' presence, Anakin's spirit fades, leaving Luke to decide.

Tharkus, flanked by the shapeshifting twins, enters the chamber, declaring his intention to claim the Heart's power for himself, aiming to become even more powerful than the Emperor. Luke argues that the Force is not meant for aggression and will overwhelm him with the Dark Side. Tharkus scoffs at this. Just as Tharkus gloats, Han, Leia, and Chewbacca burst into the chamber, firing at the stormtroopers. Luke, seizing the opportunity, Force-pulls his lightsaber from Tharkus's belt and joins the fray. Amidst the blaster fire, Luke single-handedly takes down several stormtroopers. And they eventually eliminate all remaining troopers. As the battle rages, Kastor transforms into a massive, reptilian beast, attacking Han and Leia. Han is knocked unconscious, and Leia is ensnared. Meanwhile, Pollux attempts to deceive Luke by impersonating Anakin Skywalker, urging him to lay down his weapon, claiming violence is forbidden. Luke is able to see through the illusion and swiftly strikes down Pollux, who reverts to his true cadaverous form. Seeing his chance, Tharkus rushes to the central platform to claim the Heart. Leia shouts a warning to Luke who hurls his lightsaber at the Kastor, impaling him. Kastor shrivels and dies, freeing Leia. Luke turns to Tharkus, who touches the Heart. Ruby light erupts from Tharkus's body, consuming him until only a charred skeleton remains. Luke's companions gather around the gruesome sight. Leia urges Luke to claim the Heart's power, believing he has proven himself. However, Luke expresses doubt.. He believes he is not yet ready to fully embrace the pure Force, stating his decision to wait.

Chapter Thirty-One

Luke, Han, Leia, Chewbacca, Artoo, and Threepio make a hurried escape from the Jedi temple, with the portal closing behind Luke, sealing the Heart of the Jedi once more. Han, wary of the orbiting Imperial Star Destroyer, urges them to quickly reach Luke's shuttle. As they lift off, the Star Destroyer detects them and opens fire. Luke uses his salvage scow as cover, but it quickly takes heavy damage. Storm's bioship appears, flying towards the Star Destroyer. Storm, having evacuated his people, declares his intention to ram the Imperial vessel. The Star Destroyer's captain, Vaskor, dismisses the bioship as harmless, but quickly realizes it's on a collision course. Despite evasive maneuvers and concentrated fire, the bioship, with Storm at the helm, slices vertically through the Star Destroyer's control tower, obliterating both vessels in an explosion.

The group heads to retrieve the Millennium Falcon. As they fly away from Angorathea, Han asks Luke about his journey to the planet. Luke explains that he gained knowledge and a temporary identity, but realized his true purpose lies in helping the Alliance defeat the Empire definitively. He plans to return to Angorathea only when he's truly prepared. Leia understands his decision, hinting at her own potential return someday. Han, ever practical, asks where they're headed next. Luke, with renewed determination, declares they are going "home" to the Alliance base on Torbraleen, sensing that much work lies ahead. With Chewbacca's help, Han jumps the Millennium Falcon into hyperspace, leaving Angorathea behind, its Heart of the Jedi once more alone and waiting.

Characters

Locations

Species

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 https://www.starwarstimeline.net/Archived%20News%202015.htm
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 https://www.starwarstimeline.net/The%20Heart%20of%20the%20Jedi.htm
  3. ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20210505020034/https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Jedi-Kenneth-C-Flint/dp/B08Y55DZ23/
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