CWBorne

Trying to figure out a bit of an issue as part of me really wants the Imperial armed forces to have existed for some time, but I don't want the Clone Wars to involve Republic vs. Empire in any way. I guess part of me's wondering if the Imperial aspect existing as part of the Republic but not really overtaking everything till Palpatine's later days could work. 

See they should have gone with Tan being a nickname Anakin hated that got so frequently mentioned that various star systems assume that's his name. Could have some fun with it at least. 

Fair enough, and yeah taking a step back it is a bit much. Honestly I think part of me wanted to write a full blown script, but didn't want to go through the hassle of the screenplay format. I think in hindsight I wanted feedback so badly that I posted something that probably worked best as an in progress guide to me rather than something for others. While originally I was going to wait till this... thing was finished before I started writing the actual script, it might be best to just start work on it now and just finish it that way (or at the very least use only this "scriptment" for just myself and post the final results later. 

I'm curious if one could split the difference between the original concept of Father Skywalker and the ESB twist and reveal that Vader did kill Luke's father... but only after the Skywalker himself was seduced to the dark side and tried to destroy Vader via a trap to prove his own loyalty to Palpatine. Darth wins and feeling the power of the dark side, turns and becomes the Emperor's new apprentice. Thus Kenobi inverted the truth; Darth only killed Luke's father when the latter betrayed him. 

Of course there's also the alternate story point of Kenobi killing Luke's father which is what most people (other than Lucas, Kasdan, Kershner, Hamill, and James Earl Jones) thought because that's what was filmed on set.

Captain Antillies, Admiral Ozzel, Captain Needa, some X-Wing pilots, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and the Emperor. 

Also did nothing as Tarkin destroyed Alderaan. 

Part 6 as act II finally ends. As long as this is getting at least I won’t have to add much when making it into a script.

Organa tells them to cut the chatter and to provide some covering fire. They hastily do so as she pulls out her item, a thermal detonator, which she forcibly throws and it rolls on the ground several meters. Carima asks what that was, but soon gets her answer as the device explodes, taking out their attackers. Anakin confirms the coast is clear and they start to run off. He mutters to Niwir that Darelda must have gotten the detonator from the assassin but she shrugs and comments that with today’s senators who knows?

The three of them reach the bottom of the hill, and see the spaceport at the top of it. They’re overjoyed at first, but soon hear the buzzing noise and they (along with the camera) turn to see dozens of speeders driven by Mandalorian troopers heading at them. Anakin whispers “Mandalorians” which gets Organa’s attention, but he yells for them to get to the ship.

They race up the hill, stopping every couple of meters to shoot back at the speeders that are getting closer and closer. Just as they are about to hit a close attack, 81 and Kenobi arrive on their own speeders blasting at them and draw the Mandalorian attackers away. Though far away, Anakin and Obi-Wan share a look, nod at each other and the former tells the others to grab on. They’re confused till they see Skywalker grab onto the Jedi’s moving speeder and do the same with HX’s.

After dodging enemy fire both speeders crash softly onto the ground near the ship with Anakin, Darelda, and Carima jumping off just in time. The group heads into the freighter, unfortunately a squadron of troopers is quickly following. In the cockpit Skywalker and Niwir are already at the controls, and the senator orders them to take off. Carima shrugs and says that’s good enough for her. Sure enough the ship starts to take off only for a pounding on the ceiling to start reverberating.

“We’re hearing that sound way too often today” Anakin mutters. 81 starts heading towards the exit and Organa asks where he’s going. Calmly but forcefully he asks her to excuse his temporary leave, but that they should continue taking off and he’ll be back in just a moment. She watches HX head out and can only stare at Kenobi confused when he tells her not to worry as the droid’s done this before.

On the outside of the freighter, 81 crawls to the top and sees a Mandalorian trooper. The latter has magnetic boots attaching him to craft as he blasts at it. The droids fires at them, but it has no effect on their thick armor. The soldier in turn raises its weapon, but HX quickly rushes forward and knocks it out of his hand. A physical fight ensues while the ship starts moving through the air. Inside the cockpit Darelda says whatever the droid’s doing he needs to finish quickly.

Cut to the top of the ship where the Mandalorian uses a chain whip attached to his armor to ensnare 81, and tosses him all around. Anakin is piloting and trying to avoid a rush of laser blasts and other fighters. The droid manages to free himself from the chain and again is targeted, but manages to grab the whip and knock the trooper down to one knee, though the latter’s boots still keep him attached. Fast cut to the cockpit where Carima points to a fast fighter heading right for them. Skywalker says he’s on it.

Back to HX who quickly ties the whip to a protruding pipe on the freighter then backs off and lies flat on his stomach. This confuses the soldier at first who then realizes he’s stuck in place as the enemy fighter is still coming towards. Anakin barely manages to maneuver the ship out of the way while the Mandalorian just frees the whip from his armor, but it’s too late as the enemy fighter slams right into him, finally knocking him off the freighter.

Cut to the cockpit where after a beat of silence, Obi-Wan says he thinks the matter’s been taken care of. Niwir says 81 will need to be let in and Organa goes off to do just that. Skywalker tells Ben that they have slightly bigger problems, and references that there’s countless amounts of cruisers and ships doing everything they can to keep anyone from the leaving the planet. He adds that they don’t have blasters nearly strong enough to hit back.

Kenobi asks if he can maneuver long enough till they can jump to lightspeed. The younger man glances at Carima who grins and says “Mister Kenobi, you’ve met the farmer. Meet Anakin Skywalker, the pilot.” The freighter proceeds to do some remarkable stunts, cutting it close near many ships and mostly avoiding the blasts being fired at it. He even manages to lure so enemy fighters to them, and pulls up the last moment, crashing the crafts into a freighter.

In the back section Darelda lets in 81 who after quickly dusting himself off, apologizes for the wait, as their guest was a bit stubborn. Organa cocks her head and tells the droid with a guarded smile that she always forgets the willingness to do crazy stunts like that are apparently part of his programming. The droid says “Quite, its located somewhere my skills at sabbac and implacable manners.” The two get working the data cube.

On the capital vessel Kwade is going slightly nuts and asks on a communicator why his forces can’t stop one damn ship. Phakerem calmly responds that the pilot’s a Jedi. Traezin rolls his eyes at this and grouses “Jedi on the planet, Jedi in space, I guess they’re everywhere now.” The General clarifies that it’s likely the same one from Nar Shadda, and given that they evaded her Mandalorian forces, there’s probably more than one. The pirate sighs and says of course there is.

Bracett speaks up that with the Jedi is on the ship that means… but is interrupted by Kwade who angrily states they know it means. The general says that if Organa gets out their plans could get compromised. Traezin asserts that nothing is going to derail their arrangement… but just to be safe, that the ship needs to be destroyed. He looks to Phakerem for any objection given that she wanted them alive, but she responds that a few destroyed Jedi is an acceptable loss. Kwade orders his forces to focus on the freighter.

Anakin does his best to further avoid enemy fire, but things are getting frantic. Carima prepares for the jump to light speed, telling him they need just a few more moments. Obi-Wan senses his student’s desperation, and tells him to say calm. Skywalker is too nervous and starting to panic, raising his voice to just under a yell that there’s too many ships. The Jedi Knight tells him to focus and use the Force, but the distressed Anakin replies he can’t. Kenobi tells him to let it have some control, but to no avail.

The lead enemy cruiser creeps up and readies a large homing missile right at them. Obi-Wan closes his eyes and concentrates his thoughts. Carima says she’s just about got it, and Anakin screams that they’re about to get hit, however Kenobi intensely uses the force to manually maneuver the missile just enough to avoid the blast. Less than a moment later the freighter jumps to lightspeed.

Back on the capital cruiser, Phakerem’s mouth curls into a frown and Bracett watches her and Traezin nervously. Kwade looks at the general and says they have an entire fleet; one ship can’t undo that. She can only stare and respond “So you say, Captain.” She states they’ll finish their plans here, and move on to phase two. Bracett is ordered to contact their ships and get them ready the movement into the core systems. The Chiss asks which ones will be going, and gets an answer from Phakerem. “All of them.”

Cut to the cockpit where Carima is overjoyed with relief, even shouting with delight. She says she doesn’t’ know what happened to the torpedo, but it doesn’t matter, they’re safe for now and goes to check on 81 and Organa. Anakin on the other hand is seriously dejected, unable to meet the gaze of the older Jedi. Rubbing his hand over his face he admits he doesn’t know what happened.

Sympathetic, Kenobi says he tried to entirely control the Force instead of allowing it some influence over him. Skywalker isn’t swayed, repeating his line about the number of fighters. Obi-Wan takes a different tact and uses a metaphor that no matter how many planets are in a system, how many ships fly through it, the sun acts just the same. “It shines, it warms, and it gives. It helps to create life, and from life comes the Force. Trust in its power and you’ll see beyond anything, including those ships.”

Anakin manages a smile at that and asks if Ben is still unsure that he wouldn’t be the perfect master. Kenobi smirks and slaps Skywalker on the back and tells him they have some information to decipher. The two head to the back of the ship to meet up with the others.

More to come…

I’ve been going back and editing previous portions as the treatment goes on, so don’t be put off if things seem differed when looking it over.

The treatment I have has Carima Niwir (Mother Skywalker in my version) as a blond wrench wench type, who starts off cute, but messy looking because she's primarily a mechanic and freight worker who's friends with Anakin and is a fellow employee on the Spice Freighter. Have a young Debbie Reynolds in my head, though that's pretty much because of the actress's relationship to Carrie Fisher. 

Characterization she's the small town girl in over her head like her son while Anakin's much more the fierce and determined individual like his daughter. Her accidentally being dragged into Skywalker and Kenobi's adventure is what drives her much of her scenes with the former at first before their genuine appreciation blossoms again and grows beyond a friendship. In the long term she represents a crucial part of his humanity and its her apparent death allows him to be more more easily manipulated by Palpatine. 

There's a Topps Trading Card from the early 90s that posits a pretty interesting picture of Young Obi-Wan even if it is just a drawn mock up of younger Alec Guiness:

I there's also some possible validity in having a young Anakin in some ways resemble a young Sebastian Shaw: 

If this is legit (not him simply making vague promises to do experimental movies like he he's done for the past 25 years) then good on him. Stepping back into the young guy who wanted to do avant garde stuff with a camera a few setttings would be quite a fun throwback for him to enjoy, and Lucasfilm not having him as such a strong influence can do a world of good. 

Granted I still don't think the original films will be released until George passes away, but still the idea of Lucasfilm being in newer hands leaves me with some optimism. 

I guess it being the Empire in name only until the purge/Anakin's turn could have been the case, with perhaps Palpatine at that point being a quasi-Augustus type who brought stability to the galaxy. Or hell, if you really wanted to be radical, maybe Palpatine wasn't even the first Emperor. 

Yup, more of this beast, though I am happy to say the Nar Shadda portion is turning out better than I thought.

Cut to the same masked attacker of Darelda viewing Kenobi and 81 through a set of binoculars from a high building some distance away. The agent readies the bowcaster and start heading down.

Anakin and Carima make their way through the tunnels and hallways leading into the building, and arrive at a particular garage hall with countless ship parts scattered all over the area. Both customers and shopkeepers look particularly well dressed in comparison to the typical smugglers seen beforehand. They initially give the pair a look before going back to their business. The two of them start looking around at the parts offered, trying not to look heavily interested in anything particular.

Anakin whispers that if there are any parts here, it’s pretty brazen to outright put them on the market so quick, but Carima points out with no Republic authority, who is going to care? After checking out more wares, she spots a piece that gets her attention, stating it’s a Republic ship shield generator as she’s seen enough knockoffs to know. Skwalker wonders if it’s the one from Darelda’s ship and Niwir says they’re about to find out.

Getting the shopkeepers attention she brings over the part and asks about its age. The former responds with a small smile and says he sold all of old non-functioning parts to pilots in the corporate sector. She gives a playful scoff and says he’s probably told the same thing to the corporate sector pilots, and he offers an innocent look, stating that might be the case. Carima says the part looks alright enough, but she’d like to have some idea as to where it’s from, just in case she needs to make adjustments to it.

That query gets the clerk to look up with slightest hint of suspicion, and he calmly asks where they’re from with Carima saying nonchalantly saying she’s Corellian and he’s from Ord Mandell. This gets a knowing nod from the merchant who starts making small talk about both places while checking things under a counter. He is in fact readying his weapon with the other clerk in the garage doing the same. All the while he continues to talk, about to describe the better trade routes to those two planets…

Before the shopkeeper can fully turn around and shoot, Anakin blasts him, with Carima firing on the other merchant as he goes for his weapon. This quickly brings about chaos as the other aliens in the garage don’t know who to trust and everyone starts firing. Niwir and Skywalker quickly duck and hide behind a large radar dish on sale, occasionally blasting at one side of the room which has started coalescing into one group of shooters.

She curses herself for forgetting the first rule in dealing with these places: don’t ask the wrong questions. He eases her fault pointing out they probably violated some smuggler’s code the moment they started talking and probably had them apprehensive anyway. One of the garage customers gets close to the two of them but gets hit by blaster fire from the side and collapses onto the floor right nearby.

Following that Carima emphatically notes “This situation could use some of your new skills, Mr. Jedi.” She sarcastically notes that she can clearly see how this is much better than working on a moisture farm. He shrugs. “I don’t know, between the womprat infestations and Sand People raids back home I’d call it about even.” Anakin notes that they need just a moment to slip out, but that their “friends” here aren’t exactly being accommodating.

Niwir ponders for a moment and has an epiphany telling him to remember the trick they pulled on the Sand People a while back. Skywalker thinks it over, and responds he can think of worse ideas. “Trust me Skwalker, you already have.” She mutters while pulling out her second blaster.

Carima tells him she hopes his aim is just as good now and he worriedly hopes the same. They get some slight distance from the radar dish before she tosses the blaster towards their attackers and with pinpoint accuracy Anakin shoots the energy pack causing it to explode.

The impact stuns their enemies, and the two run out as he asks why she got to be from Corellia. They manage to escape through the larger hallways and the two make it outside just in time to see Obi-Wan and HX arrive. Kenobi says they heard some noise and asks what happened with Anakin replying that “Apparently they realized we weren’t ruthless scoundrels. It kind of went all downhill from there.”

The security droid says he’s almost figured out Organa’s location, but thanks to “your particular brand of window shopping” there’s little time to find her and get out before they get the wrong kind of attention. Obi Wan hears something in the distance and comments that it may be too late for that.

A group of speeders arrives and orders them to drop their weapons, and not go anywhere till they’ve answered some questions. Kenobi says quietly to the others that he might be able to influence them, but 81 responds that they have no time and blasts at them right before the four of them flee.

The speeders chase after as the group ducks into a nearby alley which twists and turns until eventually reaching a dead end. The four of them turn back around and Carima asks what are the odds are the pilots can be taken out before they use potential heavy firepower. HX responds that having done the calculation it’s probably best he not say. They ready their weapons as the speeders approach, with their guns drawn, ready to shoot.

Out of nowhere however, the various speeder pilots get picked off by blaster fire from behind. The attacking distraction allows 81, Carima, and Anakin to take out the rest. The crafts destroyed, they look to see who or what fired. Approaching forward walks the same masked attacker as before, their bowcaster rifle aimed carefully at the group, and they do the same in return. HX asks who they are. After a pause, the attacker takes off their mask to reveal none other than Darelda Organa.

“Good question, but a better one would be where the hell you’ve been?”

81 immediately asks how about her health, and she says sharply retorts that she’s all alive and at the moment that’s all that matters. She states that she’s assuming there’s a good reason the fleet isn’t here and the droid explains that the fleet was destroyed after she went to hyperspace. Organa curses Kwade, says she knew he would pull something, and that she should have brought a larger fleet. However HX explains that given the surprise nature and number of the attackers, they too would have been destroyed.

The security droid says they’re still trying to figure out how the fleet wasn’t seen and the senator says she has an idea; that Draezin’s fleet has a scanner cloak. That draws a considerable hushed silence, with Carima being the first to speak. “Since when can any piloted ship ever pull that off?” 81 says that would be the most effective way for a fleet to attack out of nowhere. Organa mentions there had been rumors about such a device being developed that the Senate has been suppressing for months to prevent a panic.

Away from the conversation, Anakin thinks he’s spots something in the sky and starts examining it intently.

The senator asks how 81 survived, the droid points to Obi-Wan, saying that Kenobi found him and they came here. Darelda looks hard at him and asks how he couldn’t think to warn that the fleet would be attacked, but the Jedi informs her he didn’t know of the assault and that he himself was sneak-attacked above Tatooine. He goes on to warn that if Kwade does possess a sensor cloak his actions aren’t just linked to the missing ships, they’re part of some larger plan, one they need to figure out.

Organa reaches into her pocket and pulls out the data cube, and says she’s way ahead of him, describing how her informant was discovered and she only managed to escape by faking out a would be assassin and impersonating him before anyone else could go after her. Concern clearly in her voice she recalls that she’s been biding her time till she could find out what happened to her crew, as she didn’t want to risk looking up the data except back on the ship.

Anakin notices odd activity going on the rooftops in the distance as well, worry growing on his face with each passing second.

At that point Carima gets closer and soberly tells her that the ship’s been taken apart already, and its parts being sold. She’s about to continue, but is cut off by Darelda who finishes her report by stating the crew is probably dead; remarking that she didn’t want to actually believe it. 81 adds that while the loss of them is unfortunate, their priority needs to be the cube, and between himself and the freighter they have they can personally analyze it.

After a sigh the senator looks her and Skywalker over, asking who they are. Obi-Wan begins to identify them, giving Niwir’s name and that they’re borrowing her ship. Pride apparent, he says Anakin is an apprentice that will be learning the ways of the Force. She stares unconvinced, and declares that “While I don’t know a lot about you Jedi I can’t possibly think of what’s so special about this kid that would make him you think he’s worth picking up in the middle of-” she’s cut off however.

Anakin shouts “Ben!” which gets Kenobi’s attention and noticing Skywalker’s direction he too looks up. Astonished after seeing the same thing his student does, the two run off to the open street where the others, initially confused, follow.

The group looks collectively to the sky where, emerging in the atmosphere, are ships and fighters of an assortment of shapes and sizes. After both sets stay in formation for a few moments the fighters break off and begin to head directly at an angle, and begin to fire. The larger vessels continue their path, forming a landing pattern. Kenobi emphatically tells everyone they need to get to the ship immediately.

All of them start running off as the fighters’ blasts starting doing heavy damage to the city, which is now a chaotic mess filled with people fleeing or hiding. In the midst of dodging other escaping citizens, debris, and blaster shots, the quintnet find some temporary cover in another alley as they wait for an opening in the streets between fighter blasts. Heavily breathing, Organa can’t understand what Kwade has to gain by attacking Nar Shadda.

Turning back from looking at the streets Anakin answers, saying based on those larger ships, it’s not just an attack. Obi-Wan confirms this. “It’s an invasion.” A dead silence follows as the other three take in the news. Finally HX speaks, asking how good her freighter is at avoiding warships. Niwir is still stunned by what was just said and can’t even respond leaving Organa to ask how far away the ship is.

Skywalker replies that it’s outside the city and so not a direct target, but Kenobi grimly points out that it also means it’ll take time to get back. Studying the chaotic streets, the Jedi tells Anakin to stay in front with him, Organa and Darelda to guard their flank and 81 to bring the up the rear. He warns them to stay close, but not too close as they’ll need to be quick and maneuverable, and above all else to be alert. They all join together and head off.

Initially they’re able to stay as a group, as bedlam ensues all over Nar Shadda with more and more fighters taking out the sorry planetary defenses set up. Quick cuts reveal armed soldiers strongly advancing all over, with all platoons being directed by Mandalorian leaders. Small droids are also flying around with some scanning for combatants on the ground and others capturing the invasion on surveillance.

Cut to the capital vessel where Kwade, Bracett, and Phakerem watch a screen filled with several video feeds of the invasion. With some reluctance the general praises Draezin’s partisan forces on the ground, declaring that it’s going even quicker and easier than planned. Kwade visibly enjoys the compliment, no matter how strained, and replies that the progress they’re making the planet will be theirs in a matter of hours, even with pockets of opposition.

Scanning the screen, he informs the fighters to not get excessive in their attack runs when they have ground forces to take care of any individual resistance. When this gets a look from Phakerem he defends it saying they sooner replace a few dead smugglers then they can rebuild destroyed cities. The general emphasizes their ultimate goal in control, not destruction, but Kwade shrugs and responds that he’s found that sometimes the two go hand in hand.

While clearly unimpressed with his reasoning, something catches her attention. Staring at a particular feed she watches Obi-Wan leading the group down on the planet. Slightly interested at first her eyes go wide when he pulls out a lightsaber to defend himself from blaster fire. This image isn’t lost on Draezin who spots Organa near Kenobi as well, turning to Bracett and demands to know why she’s still alive. The Chiss stammers out that she was told the Senator had been taken care of.

Phakerem, her gaze still intensely focused on Kenobi, calmly tells Kwade to consider himself fortunate that she’ll be able to fix his mistake. Communicating to one of her forces, she orders a specific squadron to go after the group in section 38. On the feed Obi-Wan eventually deflects a blaster shot into a surveillance droid, knocking out the feed. The general adds if possible to capture the Jedi alive.

Back on the planet the situation is gradually growing worse, as all five have their weapons out, started to spread out, and move sluggishly through the streets. They manage to reach a bridge where Anakin, Darelda, and Carima manage to make it in while HX and Obi-Wan provide defense and covering fire. When a damaged fighter attempts another run at them, it stalls and crashes right at the edge of the bridge, cutting off the latter two.

Organa tells them they have to get to the ship, which Skywalker balks at, yelling that they have to wait for Kenobi and 81. She shouts that they’ll be able to find another route and when he asks if they don’t, her silence says everything. He still refuses to leave, but Niwir advises him that the last thing Obi-Wan would want them is for them foolishly risk themselves. Anakin calms himself and quietly says “May the Force be with you Ben.” The trio then heads off on the bridge.

On the other side, HX observes that their options getting limited seems to the theme for this particular trip. Kenobi asks if there are any other ways back to the spaceport, and the droid replies that they don’t have quite enough time for any alternatives. Obi-Wan considers their situation for a moment and asks where a supply of speeders would likely be stored. 81 eyes literally light up and he tells the Jedi to follow him.

On the bridge the others reach the other side, but get caught in a firefight with an invading troop. The trio takes cover behind a small building while alternatively blasting back. Organa asks if they’ve got a plan. Anakin comments to Carima that she probably didn’t pack any more blasters, and Niwir grumbles it’s hardly the biggest mistake she’s made today. The Senator then remembers something and starts checking her clothes, searching for something

Anakin looks over Niwir and tells her he’s sorry. At her puzzlement he clarifies that he’s sorry she got dragged into all this and that if they get out of here, he’ll do more than just compensate her. “I’ll get you a better ship; I’ll even get you a nice place in Mos Eisley if I can.” She gives him a small smile, and when he tells her he never wanted to do this to a friend, she calmly replies that friendships can be strange things.

More to come…

(Incidentally, any feedback on this treatment would be greatly appreciated, if just to know I’m not crafting a complete mess or bore of a story already)

Yeah, Lucas' original drafts refer to the good Ashla and evil Bogan parts of the Force, but they like so many other elements that more specifically defined it, were gradually dropped in succeeding version. Eventually it became the more  mysterious element of the galaxy that a variety of audiences found so interesting because it was ambiguous that you could read anything into it. 

In that regard its worth noting that ANH has Kenobi referring to Vader being seduced by just dark side, while the latter two films emphasize much more strongly that it was the Emperor himself who strongly lured him over, likely with his mastery of the dark side. Palpatine himself basically tells Darth that only their combined power can bring him over, and Yoda's last warning is that he cannot underestimate the Emperor's abilities. 

Clearly there was a shift that as bad as the dark side was, it was much more dangerous in the hands of experienced man like Palpatine. If there was cosmic element to the Force it seemed fairly malleable enough to whims of others, which fittingly enough could suggest an interesting backstory for the Emperor:

He wanted power, discovered he had the Force within him, learned of the abilities of the dark side, and then used it in subtle ways at the political level until he managed to get Anakin on his side, and proceeded to take out the biggest potential threat there was with the Jedi. Speaking for myself, Palpatine simply being an opportunist who found an effective means to get what he wanted is far more interesting than the quasi-fundamentalist Sith the prequels portrayed him as. 

That particular description points to how the Force in the OT acted as a mythic phenomenon, but in some ways, like something akin to a science of sorts in that it was neither inherently good or inherently evil, only the actual users determined that. While it did have a power one had to respect (as it would have a physical effect eventually as Palpatine's form demonstrated) it seemed very much like a tool. A natural part of life that one chose to utilize for good (the Jedi using it to protect the Republic) or ill (Palpatine using it take over the Republic) but still in many ways a tool.

Of the many bizarre changes created by the prequels (seriously those films are like inverted Citizen Kanes, just when you think you've discussed all the dubious layers to them, you discover more) was that it made the Force more scientific with the introduction of measurable midichlorians and more god like with the introduction of prophecy, chosen, one and a formerly unmentioned "balance". Ironic that while both aspects worked in an odd harmony in the originals just seem forced and somewhat incompatible in the prequels. 

The whole nature of the original film also reflected that more liberating sensibility with how creatures like Jawas and later the Ewoks affect things without initially intending to, just be their unplanned encounters with the heroes. 

Incidentally since I'm a shameless attention whore, I'm currently working on the first treatment (hopefully to become the first of three scripts) of a completely redone version of the prequels which pretty much removes the reliance on fate or prophecy as story elements and back to a more fanciful take ala the originals. The progress of that and other story points can be found in the Script Writing and Re-writing section of the forum. Give it a look if interested. 

Great points and I think that also explains why I really disliked the heavy roles given to R2-D2 and Chewie in the prequels and despise the concept that they were spies for the likes of the Republic for 20 years. It shrinks the universe far, far, too much and dilutes the point of ANH, ESB, and ROTJ.

The inherent adventurous attraction the original films had was that ordinary individuals like R2, 3P0, Han, Chewie, and Lando caught got up in conflict much larger than themselves. and that prior to that they were in many ways individuals like us. Even Luke and Leia, set up from the beginning as continuing the work of their fathers, were still people who by certain whims of fate could have ended up far different.

Heck that the entire series essentially owes to the fact that an imperial officer didn't fire on an escape pod and an R4 unit broke down was such a great touch because it shows the arbitrary nature of everyday life even in a galaxy far far away. It could have gone so many ways, but it went the way it did, and the heroes took advantage of the opportunities given to make a difference. 

The prequels rely far too much on the nature of fate, prophecy, contrivance to the point where so much of it isn't relatable. Luke Skywalker for whatever talents he had wasn't really that special at the end of the day, which made us empathize with him so deeply. Anakin by contrast more or less has neon signs saying "Great hero of destiny" pointing at him from the moment we see him. What an intelligent, ultra kind person he is who also has extraordinary talents. Of course he's going to be a big deal, which just created further distance between him and the audience. 

The same problem also hurts Palpatine, rendering what could have been a cunning and subtle opportunist into an over the top cartoon character; who's schemes make him seem less like a magnificent planner and more like the only man with common sense in a galaxy full of idiots. It couldn't be that he took advantage of pre-existing problems and came out on top, it had to be a complex scheme where he was manipulating those on both sides to bring back the long gone Sith. The terrifying undercurrent of his character prior to 1999 was that he embodied a continuing threat in real life; of certain people just needing one chance in the midst of chaos and conflict to do real damage. 

The ironic thing about the prequel films is that George set out to make things more shades of gray but succeeded in creating a series of movies far less realistic and interesting precisely because the capricious nature of events was lost. 

Rich People: That's not what we agreed on for the neighborhood!

George Lucas: I am altering the neighborhood, pray I don't alter it any further. 

Basically, one of the things that bothered me in Lucas' films was that there were a bit too many Sith everywhere, hence the Jedi look foolish for not finding Palpatine sooner and Vader is diminished as a character by being just another apprentice of a dark lord. 

The key conception of my prequels is that there weren't all that many Dark Jedi (possibly none) running around, and that the Jedi had become so wrapped up in the Clone Wars and the battle with the Mandalorians that Palpatine's seduction of Anakin as well as the subsequent betrayal completely took them by surprise. Partially because Palpatine's behavior (patient, subtle, reserved) also completely went against their own recollections of what a dark side user was like.

Its why in my internal drafts I had avoided having any Dark Jedi show up because that would naturally have the Jedi much more on the guard about sensing disturbances in the Force, especially those of the Dark Side. 

The insane clone concept seems attractive because its a loophole, allowing the Jedi to battle their own without it being those who've technically fallen to the Dark Side. If there is a resemblance its that both are in a sense corruptions; of the mind with the clones and of the soul with Dark Jedi, but its a plot point that would allow such a conflict without logically demanding the Jedi to naturally sense a powerful Dark Sider deep within the Republic. 

(Its worth noting that clones are already introduced at the end of episode one and are being utilized all throughout my prequel trilogy, as the Mandalorian shocktroopers are working with crime lord Draezin Kwade who uses the clones of various criminals and pirates in his employ. Episode Two would specifically be Kwade trying to clone Jedi on his own in order to have more leverage and less dependency on his Mandalorian allies, which as I said goes disastrously.) 

Been heavily debating whether to include a particular plot point in episode II.

Insane cloned Jedi created by the enemy seems like an intriguing concept and could lead to a ton of great battles, though I wouldn't necessarily make them Dark Jedi, just crazy. So much so that the use of them is a disaster and severely weakens the Mandalorian coalition (along with another major act in the film). More or less I don't really want any true users of the dark side of the Force except for eventually Palpatine and Vader. I can easily fit it into the plot, but I'm still unsure about it at the moment. 

High quality versions of the first releases of ANH/ESB/ROTJ an art book of Ralph McQuarrie's works, prints of the original trilogy posters, and the Thrawn Trilogy. 

Finally got some continued work on this done, though its been tricky as act 2 has been the least developed before I started working on the treatment.

Cut to the alley on Nar Shadda as before where the same masked attacker holds the data cube and looks over the dead Twi’lek, before placing the device in their coat and walking off.

Cut to a vast and intricate ship yard where various numerous vessels, large and small are having their finishing touches put on. Kwade looks on from a set of quarters, clearly pleased at the progress. Bracett walks in and Draezin observes “Incredible works aren’t they, even if these warrior types of no sense of style.” She smirks and says what they lack in aesthetics they’ll make up for in results and best of all they get to watch.

Focusing on the business at hand she says that his guest just arrived and he has her send him in. An enthused Bothan walks in and it’s clear he and Kwade are familiar, with the former describing that all the various procedures on planet have been taken care of and that all their associates are in place. With some clear satisfaction he says their “competitors” will be more inclined to negotiate soon enough. He also reveals that someone’s already been dispatched for their Senator problem.

The pirate is pleased by the news, his mood slightly shifting when the guest starts going into detail about how’s he already taken the initiative to personally manage operations on the planet himself given that Kwade and his partners will be busy overseeing much bigger plans after Nar Shadda. The alien emphasizes that he knows this is a surprise, but that with his connections, he’ll be better than anyone else in the position.

There is a bit of a pause as the human considers his words. Eventually Draezin laughs and it’s just like him to worm his way into a position when the galaxy is on the verge of being turned upside down, but points out that he’s right and that the planet will need someone of experience and talents. He suggests the Bothan retrieve his specific data for the proposal, and when the former turns around to leave so, a blaster comes out of Kwade’s sleeve which he then fires.

After a flash, the alien lies dead on the floor. Hearing the noise, Bracett comes in, casually notices the sudden corpse, and without a beat says she’ll get someone to clean up. The Chiss remarks that she had heard this one was thought of as fairly loyal and harmless enough. Kwade actually agrees, “Yes and now he’ll stay that way.” He heads off, briefly telling her to inform him once they have an update on Organa’s status and he’ll need the Dynasty ready as there’s only one bit of business left before the fleet is launched.

Cut to the spice freighter in hyperspace. Inside Anakin and Carima sit at the cockpit. Clearly inpatient she wonders aloud how long a Jedi debriefing is supposed to take. He replies that Ben’s getting valuable information and asks what the problem is. When Niwir responds that the wait’s making her nervous, with a slight grin he points out that she didn’t seem so nervous when staring at 81.

That brings about a flustered reaction with her defending that its not often one gets to see a top of the line Republic Security model, and that if Skywalker realized the amount of junk droids she’s had to work with over the years, he’d understand that. Carima continues that one way he can compensate her for the stolen ship is ensuring in the future she isn’t working with scrap so worthless Jawas wouldn’t take it.

He emphasizes that when this is all over she’ll have the freighter, plenty of credits, and won’t ever have to deal with him again. That last bit bothers her a bit, though all she says openly is it figures that he’s cause her this much grief and make her find a new pilot too. He shrugs and says Mos Eisley’s crawling with pilots. In a low voice, not entirely noticed by Anakin she says “Not good ones.”

Kenobi and 81 emerge, the former looking particularly serious. He says they should be close to the planet by now, which is confirmed. The droid says that Kwayde’s been using the planet for years and they’ll need to be extraordinarily careful, which Anakin agrees with saying he’s heard stories about Draezin’s fleet. “Now it’s gotten past just a few missing ships” adds Obi-Wan. “If he’s attacking Republic agents, he’ll do anything.”

They come out of hyperspace and there some tension as they’re worried about the possibility of another sneak attack. Calmly feeling for presences in the system, Kenobi says he doesn’t sense anything hidden at the moment, with HX saying to forgive him, but he wished they had more than a single Jedi’s intuition. Anakin says a spice freighter at a busy center like Nar Shadda’s hardly out of ordinary. “If only I could say the same thing about our cargo” says Carima. .

However, the ship is contacted by planetary security forces, asking about the nature of their business on the planet. Kenobi is confused but Anakin quietly suggest it’s probably a test to ensure, making sure anyone on the up and up isn’t trying to land. Skywalker answers that they’re just getting supplies and little more, but is asked what his clearance code is. This causes some slight dread as while 81 brings up his memory bank of different trading ciphers, Anakin says they’ll need a specific one.

Before they can continue Carima speaks up, stating their clearance number as 6-18-67 and calling their stop as a basic pick-up job. There’s a brief pause and they’re cleared to land. They all stare at her with Anakin pointing out at some point she’s apparently acquired smuggler codes for place like this. She shrugs, a bit defensive. “What? It never hurts to be prepared.”

The ship lands at a spaceport just outside the city. Kenobi and 81 step out immediately, and Anakin indicates he’ll be going as well, specifically stating that they’ll need help in locating the senator while keeping a low profile. Before walking out he asks with Carima if she’s coming along. She giving an annoyed pout and packs along another blaster, stating that she will be along to make sure they get back.

Skywalker questions if she’s worried they’ll take off without her, but Niwir rolls her eyes and replies that it’s more likely they’ll get themselves blasted by a drunken Sabbac player and that she can’t get compensated by dead men. “Besides maybe I can actually find some quality droids here” she adds, which gets a grin by Anakin.

The four of them get into a lift device, a clear transport hanging and moving along a long track. They get a much more detailed look at the city which appears particularly garish and gaudy with colorful lights, loads of noise, and various crowds of pedestrians mulling about everywhere. There’s a clear contrast in the quality and upkeep of buildings with some in decay and others remarkably pristine. All throughout the metropolis there’s a consistently subtle hint of grime over everything.

81 notes it’s not exactly Coruscant, and Carima asks how they’re supposed to find Organa in the middle of all this. Activating a device on his arm, HX explains that Darelda should be carrying a transmitter with a specific senatorial code, one that can only be picked up by Republic equipment. “Unless these types on Nar Shadda have already figured out a way to crack it” Anakin interjects, but the droid mentions in his experience even the best smugglers only typically unlock things they think to look for.

“Their need for creativity rarely ever surpasses their immediate desire for money.”

Recalling recent events Kenobi softly says that they’ll need to be open to any clues they find regardless; they’re no longer dealing with run of the mill criminals and they might have much worse problems than that. Anakin asks what. Obi-Wan looks around, including the night sky. “For one? Time”.

Cut to a darkened section of a room where both Kwayde and Bracett stand observing something off screen, with the former mostly expressionless and the second a touch intrigued. She casually mentions that one of their scout ships has yet to return from around Tatooine, but the pirate replies that one missing vessel is of little importance at the moment.

Camera pulls out to reveal they are watching General Phakarem on a small, but raised platform in the middle of a vast hall making a speech. The General goes on about the countless centuries of sacrifice they have made, and that systems everywhere have grown weak, the citizens have become tired, and their officials are no longer fit to lead. Throughout the speech, small peeks are seen of her audience.

She refers to the fact that even the Jedi no longer have the spark to be warriors or the will to preserve the pitiful galactic bureaucracy which earns a raised eyebrow by Draezin. Phakerem loudly bellows that they stand upon the precipice of history and that the future is in their hands, ready to mold. She finishes the address with a summation that few can dream of shaping the destinies of others, but their actions today will determine the fate of all for years to come.

Camera swoops around to completely reveal large rows of armed Mandalorian soldiers, all dressed in various colored uniforms including helmets. Quick cuts also show the speech being watched by other large sets of shocktroopers on different ships in the fleet. In response to the general’s words they yell defiantly, raise their gauntleted hands, and salute.

Bracett and Draezin lightly applaud. Her speech concluded, Phakerem sees the two of them who tell her that the upgrades are finished, the people are in place, and that unless she has anything else; they are ready. For the first time, a smile is seen on her face as she gives a single order: “Get the fleet into hyperspace. So goes Nar Shadda, so goes the Republic.”

Cut back to the streets of the city where the foursome casually walks through the markets. 81 keeps his gaze forward, while Carima and Anakin check out various knick-knacks being sold by the various shops. Kenobi remains casually alert, trying to detect anything out of the ordinary. Skywalker comments on the selection of goods with all the effort apparently going to variety not quality and Niwir reasons that even on a place like this the best stuff is probably isn’t being sold out in the open.

Obi-Wan asks if 81’s got a lock on the Senator, but he clarifies that while he can get a general direction of the signal there’s too much interference from other transmissions to pin her location down at the moment. The Jedi tells him to keep on it and let them know if any communications out of the ordinary occur. Letting out something resembling a sigh, HX says from what he’s already overheard, it would seem ordinary escaped this place as fast as it could.

Kenobi takes a quick look around offhandedly saying they’re getting some looks and all should spread out. They understand and separate, with Carima heading off a bit in her own direction, with the security droid doing the same. The Jedi and future apprentice stay together. A shady looking peddler walks up and deviously comments on Obi-Wan’s hanging lightsaber, saying he doesn’t quite recognize the design, is curious where he got it, and that he’s sure many would be interested in finding out.

The Jedi gives a small smile, and comments that it’s a small trinket he bought at a nearby shop. Not buying it, the peddler asks him which store, only for the older man to wave his hand and say the line about the trinket again, which the peddler repeats with no emotion. Obi-Wan tells him he needs to get back to his important customers, which the peddler also repeats. As the shopkeeper walks off an impressed Skywalker observes “All that with just the Force.” The knight wry observes that not all will be so easily swayed.

As Skywalker looks around the city amazed, the older man glances at Anakin, smirks, and comments on his expression. “You can’t believe you’re here can you?” He admits to Ben that it’s not quite where he thought he’d be a week ago. Obi-Wan tells him he’s adjusted well considering. Skywalker enjoys the compliment, but then frowns. The master notices his look and asks if he senses something, and Skywalker states its something else.

He says he’d always understood the Republic looks after everybody, yet there are places like Nar Shadda where there is no protection and where men like Kwade become powerful. He wonders how much worse it’d be if the Jedi weren’t in place. Kenobi takes in Anakin’s words and admits that care in the Outer Rim has seen better days, however there’s always potential for change in the galaxy. Being a Jedi means having faith in the people of the Republic and the Force. Anakin understands, but a hint of indecision lingers.

By herself Niwir examines some small worker droids only to get bumped in to by a thin, lanky gold droid who in a slightly fussy tone apologizes to her. She is a bit confused, commenting that it’s unusual for a protocol droid to be wandering around by itself. The droid quickly enlightens her that he’s not alone and is in fact with his counterpart, but he looks around and can’t immediately find him. “Oh, this is just like him” he mutters.

He begins to introduce himself, but is cut off by Carima who asks if he and/or his counterpart are for sale. To her disappointment, the golden droid says they’re not. Trying to explain, the protocol unit mentions that they’re supposed to be with their master, but that they haven’t seen him since he heard Republic parts were being sold and ran off. This gets her immediate attention and she asks where he headed off too. Surprised by the question he briefly stutters and points to a building in the distance.

After getting the direction she quickly heads off without a word, leaving the lanky droid awkwardly standing there. A domed blue and white droid then wheels up to him and lets out a few chirps. “No I wasn’t being chatty, I was being polite, humans like that you know.” The smaller droid beeps out again sounding annoyed, and the taller one scoffs. “You Artoo units just don’t understand the value of good conversation.”

81 walks up to Anakin and Obi-Wan, and when asked about his progress, replies that between being offered incompatible upgrades, mistaken for a cleaning unit, and asked three times if his restraining bolt was missing, he could only narrow down Darelda’s signal somewhat. Skywalker begins to ask how much longer it’ll take, but Carima walks up and says that parts of a Republic ship are apparently being sold here.

This causes momentary alarm, but Kenobi calmly tells them that they can’t jump to any conclusions until they can confirm it was her ship. Anakin volunteers to check it out by himself. Carima interjects and says she’ll be with him as they need someone who actually knows how to look for parts. Skywalker rolls his eyes and comments “Buy the wrong set of power converters one time and you pay for it the rest of your life.” Obi-Wan tells them to be careful and says he and 81 will try and locate the Senator’s signal.

Noticing the droid’s look Kenobi says they’ll be fine and HX replies “Oh I have no doubts, a couple of backwater visitors to the paradise of smugglers and pirates. What could be better?”

More to come…

Incidentally Zombie there's some weird stuff going on with the main site of Secret History of Star Wars, and my browser's warning me not to go there due to certain risks. Might just be me, but I wanted to mention it just in case it was happening with anyone else. 

It wouldn't be the phenomenon that ANH was (even beyond issues of quality) because a more ambiguous film about the decline of a great entity due to corruption and governmental problems was already being told much better in films of the Hollywood Renaissance and in the minds of many was occurring in real life at the time. Of the many reasons Star Wars became a phenomenon was because it was surprising escapist fare that didn't try and remind everyone how terrible the world was. 

Had TPM come out in the same tone, character focus, dialogue, and plot it would likely have been considered another schlocky science fiction movie, with no more resonance and impact than countless ones that came out in those days. In fact given the budget necessary more likely it would have been a bomb that seriously damaged 20th Century Fox and relegated Lucas back to small pictures for good. At best it'd be considered a curiosity with some interesting ideas (lightsaber, the force, interstellar planets) that ultimately didn't add up to much. 

One could reasonably interpret that the Vanilla Ice fellow is simply Vader prior to his fall to the dark side as even before the merge with the Father Skywalker character, he was written as having been scarred by his battle with Obi-Wan. Thus the comic displays Darth as he looked in his days as a Jedi and how looked when he came back as a Dark Jedi; both next to a drawing of the man responsible for putting him that suit.

Yeah, I don't really see TMP as much of a adaptation of TOS. The original series at its core was about how the people on the Enterprise and by extension future humanity as a whole reacted to the new life and new civilizations they sought. The Motion Picture has too much focus on V'Ger itself and not the crew, exemplified by the fact that much of the movie is special effects of the former and the crew looking slaw-jacked at it. 

Really if you want a movie that felt like the show in terms of tone and characters, watch Search for Spock. Wrath of Khan is an operatic deconstruction of TOS, Voyage Home is a pure comedy, and Undiscovered Country is hammered home political allegory to a degree past even something like "Let that Be Your Last Battlefield." Final Frontier feels like the old show at times, but its slightly handicapped by the fact the movie is complete shit. 

Abrams' film is basically Star Trek via Star Wars and perhaps fitting with JJ's knowledge/interest of the franchise feels like how a TOS remake would go if there had been no more films or TV shows after 1969.  

In regard to the topic, Berman and Braga of course would go on to do serious damage to the franchise like Gene almost did via laziness and taking the audience for granted. Whether that sort of creative neglect is worse than Roddenberry's ideological shift (as his tastes just ended up differing completely from the audience's) is a matter of opinion. 

Well, after lots of wavering back and forth I've decided to post my in progress treatment for the re-written Star Wars Prequels. Part of me wanted to wait till I had it completely finished, but I enjoy this forum enough and like the posters here too much to not have them read it. I'll use this as the omnibus thread of sorts, posting more sections of it as I go along; hopefully getting to the latter two prequels as well. But without further ado I present:

Star Wars Episode I: Son of the Suns

Opening crawl establishes that the Galactic Republic is in troubled times, with bureaucratic problems and party politics crippling many star systems, especially those in the outer rim. To make matters worse, various trade vessels and citizens have begun to disappear there as well, and certain parties in the Republic are starting to fear something much bigger is going on…

Film opens up with a camera pan of various gorgeous spacecraft, with a small cruiser ship at the forefront of the small fleet. Camera zooms into the back of the ship’s window passing various sections until it reaches the bridge and we are introduced to Darelda Organa overlooking the view screen. She’s a half alien humanoid woman with semi-exotic features. In the distance there is a small, unassuming ship that Darelda’s attention is focused on. 

An officer on the bridge expresses some doubt about working with the likes of them, and Darelda says they’re kind can be a bit peculiar but states that if their business in the Outer Rim is something major, he’ll prove helpful. With some vocal authority, she communicates to the small ship that they are in no mood to wait for him. 

A voice responds somewhat cheekily that some small adjustments to this ship shouldn’t take long and that he’ll meet them at the rendezvous point soon. Darelda rolls her eyes and mutters: “Guardians of peace and justice, right.” The fleet jumps to light speed.

Cut to inside the small ship, where we make out a helmeted man with goggles flipping switches. On the verge of sending out a communication he stops, sensing something and getting very tense. He looks out the view screen, seeing nothing, but seemingly reacting to some unknown threat. For several moments there is silence.

Then out of nowhere various blasters appear and head towards the ship. The pilot only barely moves out of the way in time, but is hit by succeeding blasts. Maneuvering his ship as best as he can, the pilot weaves back and forth trying to avoid getting hit. Only now is there a good look at the other fighter, a tightly packed vessel with a sharp and harsh angles. The smaller ship is hit several times, and out of desperation the pilot moves the ship towards the nearby dessert world.

Cut to the planet Tatooine where we see a masked welder working on a piece of machinery, who notices the ships blasting in the sky through a window. A young Owen Lars in heavy robes walks in and addresses the welder as Anakin, and starts to describe the moisture farm, only for the welder to unmask and reveal Carima Niwir, a dirty blond haired human woman in her mid 20s. 

We overhear another man’s voice and then reveal a dark haired Anakin Skywalker in his late 20s standing at the doorway, eyebrow raised “Little short to be me don’t you think?”

Dialogue scene follows establishing Owen as a slightly hyperactive busy man, and Anakin as the confident down to earth type, and Carima as the wide-eyed observer. Owen goes into detail about the immediate plans for the farm, and how where and what they need to invest in. Anakin assures him they’ll go into detail later, and it’s established that he and Carima have been working together on a spice freighter for some time.

Owen departs, telling Anakin he’s got some specific business plans back home. Anakin takes a look at the welded machinery and admires Niwir’s mechanical handiwork. She replies that it’s amazing with all the effort he spends trying to get piloting time in that he’s almost as skilled as her at it. “What you mean almost?” She smirks at him. “Oh, you’re good Skywalker, but not that good.”

He jokes that he’s good enough to not take naps on freighter all the time, which she adamantly denies. The two share a smile and start strolling along Mos Eisley, a developing city with different sets of buildings being constructed and remade

As the two walk, they notice a group of tough looking bounty hunters bullying a local shop owner; Carima acknowledges that they probably work for one of the Hutts. Anakin starts to get involved, but she holds him back, claiming it’s not their fight. Getting in their speeder they head out to Anchorhead. Anakin expresses some dissatisfaction with how things are going, pointing out he could be doing much more instead of being a run of the mill navigator.

Niwir disagrees and states that with the commercial interest on the planet, the navigator job, and the family farm, he’ll soon be living better than anyone on the planet, maybe even including the gangster types in Mos Eisley. Anakin remains unconvinced. “With all the things going on the in the Republic, I don’t think another guy getting rich is what it really needs right now.”

After he drops her off at Anchorhead, Anakin senses something occurring in the Jundland Wastes. Intrigued and concerned he heads over. Cut to the crashed vessel where we see the pilot crawl out, his navy blue jumpsuit somewhat damaged. As he recovers from the crash the same attacking vessel appears, readying its gun cannons.

However before it can act, blaster fire begins shooting at it, and the two see Anakin firing at it from behind a boulder. With the distraction, the pilot in the jumpsuit darts away and begins to climb the nearby cliffside. The now visible ship moves towards Anakin and starts attacking with Skywalker doing his best to hide. The ship manages to fire a small device on the speeder which Anakin doesn’t notice. 

The two play a cat and mouse game, and Anakin is eventually cornered, only for the pilot from before to jump atop the ship and to Skywalker’s awe, pulls out a lasersword and plunges it into the deck of the vessel before jumping off. With jagged motions the ship moves off, and tries to make another pass at firing. Ready this time, the pilot dodges and cuts off the tail end of the ship, sending it into a tailspin. It eventually spins off into a deep canyon, where it is heard crashing.

Anakin approaches the pilot, who removes his helmet to reveal a bearded man in his late 30s with soft brown eyes. The pilot is a bit reticent, but thanks Anakin for the help. Skwyalker asks how he ended up here, and he explains that his ship was attacked and that the planet was his best chance to get away.

When asked if Anakin had heard or seen the crash, he states that no and he just felt that something was happening, which the pilot subtly notes. Noticing his limp, Anakin offers to take him back to his home to get healed up, which the he thinks about before accepting. Skywalker introduces himself and the pilot reveals his name: Ben.

Cut to shot in space where the same fleet as before surrounds a medium sized trade ship. Inside the lead cruise vessel Organa, clearly annoyed, asks if there’s been any update, but a robotic voice informs her that no vessel has come into the system since the fleet arrived. She concludes they don’t have time wait and initiates communication with the trade ship the Diamond Dynasty.

Inside the ship is a well dressed, yet slightly sleazy captain, Draezin Kwade. His command area is the height of decadence with various small goods, drinks, and vices all around. A medium haired female Chiss, Bracett is at his side, acting as his aide. Most of the crew working inside is out of sight. In a visual communication with Darelda, he lays on the charm and attempts some pleasantries, but the short tempered Senator is in no mood for it. 

She makes it clear she believes him to be a criminal, despite the man’s assurances that he’s simply looking after his neighbors and business associates. His stealth insult about the ineffectiveness of the Senate in helping out those in the Outer Rim doesn’t go unnoticed and with a brusque tone she states that the Republic wants any vital information about the recent ship disappearances (which they know Kwade has) to be dumped into their databanks.

Somewhat far from the fleet and the Dynasty a series of unnoticed ships come out of hyperspace into the system, slowly heading towards the rendezvous. 

He explains that they simply haven’t heard anything, but Organa replies that he can either give up the information or they can discuss some of the various illicit charges that have been brought up against him by various star systems. Pleasantly sighing, he agrees to get their information ready, and points out that with such a large Republic fleet, who is he to put up a fight? With a false smile, he turns to his crew and cuts communication supposedly readying the databanks for transfer, afterwards complaining to Bracett. 

On the cruise vessel Organa tells her crew to prepare for lightspeed with a specific set of coordinates. When asked why they’re departing so early she elaborates that they have other more pressing business to attend to and that she doesn’t want to deal with Kwade any more the she has too. The front section of the ship detaches and blasts off into hyperspace. 

On the Dynasty a bored Draezin begins the data dump, but is interrupted by Bracett explaining that “Coaliton” ships have arrived in the system with the Republic fleet not aware of them yet. He is slightly confused until he’s told that he’s received a coded transmission from a General Phakerem. 

Kwade’s demeanor clearly changes at this news, but without pause he receives the communication. Draezin begins to go into detail the situation, but she cuts him off, and explains that the Republic’s presence here is intolerable and must be dealt with immediately.

Slightly annoyed, he points out that their data is junk and with the red tape in the Senate by the time anyone important enough in the Republic realizes that it’ll be too late. In response she makes it clear that early word about what’s about to happen cannot be leaked in any way. 

Phakerem asks about the senator, and Kwade replies that she knows exactly where she went, and it will fit in their plans. He does wonder however if they’re playing their cards too early, but the General orders him to eliminate the problem now and ends the transmission.

Afterwards Kwade gestures an unnamed order to Bracett while issuing a message to the fleet, stating he’s just about to dump the information into their databanks. Pressing several prominent buttons near his command chair, with a slight smile he expresses his hope that “This will be the beginning of a new, more accommodating relationship with the Republic.” He lays into his chair, a smile beginning to creep onto his face.

Cut to space where several large ships creep up on the Republic fleet, particularly what appears to be a very large and sharp looking capital vessel. 

Cut to that very same ship on the bridge where from behind we see General Phakerem herself, a tall robed figure with dark hair, looking at the front window. Both she and audience see several blasters from everywhere hit the Republic ships and quickly begin to destroy them. Without the audience seeing her face she makes an order to “Get some of our ships do deal with any escape pods; I don’t trust that pirate to be thorough.” and walks off.

Cut to Tatooine where on the way back to Anakin’s home, he and Ben talk about the planet, with Skywalker describing how he and sister Beru lost their parents a few years prior, but since purchasing the moisture farm with her husband Owen, things have been looking up, especially since plenty of businesses have started to invest in Tatooine. While enthusiastic, there’s a hint of dissatisfaction in Anakin’s voice, which Ben picks up on.

The two arrive back at Skywalker’s home; with Beru and Owen both surprised at Ben’s arrival but awkwardly accept his presence there. After introductions a dinner occurs, where Ben lightly describes that he does business in the core systems, with Anakin listening in intently. When discussion turns to the recent missing ships, Skywalker guesses that the matter must be very important for him, but Ben only admits it has his casual interest and he knows some are looking into it.

Owen gets slightly put off by the conversation, but Beru in an attempt to diffuse any tension jokes: “If something like that were happening a dustball like this is probably the safest place you could be. Who’d get into danger like that by themselves anyway?” Anakin concludes that a Jedi would, which gets everybody’s attention. Beru questions if he actually believes in them or the Force, and he replies that if their stories have been around for so long, there has to be some truth to them.

Intrigued, Ben asks why he doesn’t find the concept of an energy field connecting all living things silly or the idea of a secret order or knights protecting the Republic to be a bit out there. After some thought, Anakin answers that anything that suggests that everyone is truly connected in the galaxy and that there are those dedicated enough to help people are things worth believing in regardless of how true they are.

Growing a bit fed up Owen rolls his eyes and points out that even if the Jedi do exist, why wouldn’t they use their powers and solve the real problems in the Senate? Ben shrugs and concludes that there are problems even the Jedi couldn’t solve; a point Anakin is clearly bothered by. 

Beru again attempts to dissolve any issues by stating its late and leading Ben to the guest room. At the table, Owen tells Anakin that he admires his willingness to help. Nonetheless Ben could be dangerous, and that the he needs to stay focused on his goals; on the family’s future.

Cut to the Jundland Wastes where we see a shining gauntleted hand crawl up on the edge and rising from the cliff is a heavily armored soldier (streamlined version of Boba Fett’s outfit) complete with damaged maroon, t-visor helmet. Once atop the cliff he presses a remote control, revealing a radar map with Anakin’s speeder, which the soldier starts heading towards.

Cut to Skywalker home at night where Anakin is watching the stars. Ben walks up to him commenting on the brightness of the moon that’s out, with Skywalker replying that he should see when all three are out. Ben compliments him and his immediate family for their hospitality and that he wishes he could stay longer, however certain matters need his attention. 

Anakin immediately points out it’s the missing ships and citizens. Ben admits that is one of them, and explains his intent to find a transport on the planet, which he confesses will be tricky as he has few credits on him. Nodding his head, Skywalker states that if Ben needs a pilot to get him where ever he needs to go, that with a few machinations he could take him personally on the spice freighter. 

The older man scoffs, stating that he’s already burdened him enough, and that the last thing he wants to do is disrupt Anakin’s life with a favor like this. He points out that there are likely plenty of pilots on the planet who could get him there in some fashion, and starts to head off, thanking the lad for all he’s done for him.

In response, Anakin points out that he’s never been thanked by a Jedi before, which stops Ben dead in his tracks. After a silence, Skywalker points out his survival in the crash, the abilities in the fight with the ship, and his lightsaber; he must be a Jedi. Ben points out those are all circumstantial, but Skywalker explains that deep down he just simply knows, and if a Jedi is involved then the matter of the missing ships and citizens must be much greater than he’s letting on.

Sighing, Ben admits to the truth, enlightening the younger man that his real name is Obi-Wan Kenobi, that he was sent to help investigate what was going on, and that the attack from beforehand was likely connected to it in someway. He confesses that he wouldn’t be telling Anakin any of this if he didn’t trust him to do the right thing and not let his identity as a Jedi Knight get out.

Skywalker is touched by his faith and asks if he trusts him enough to have him become a Jedi Knight. The other man is slightly surprised and says it’s not that easy; that learning it takes utmost dedication/discipline and that a Jedi’s life is not an easy one. Anakin doesn’t mind. “I’ve done easy, its not enough for me, not now.” Kenobi still expresses some doubts, pointing out that Anakin doesn’t know for certain how adept he would even be as a Jedi.

Skywalker isn’t swayed and cuts straight to the point: “Can you really say that there’s nothing in me right now that can’t be made into something great?” The older man sadly smiles and admits he can’t, but asks Anakin “Can you really say that there’s nothing here you won’t regret leaving behind?” When the younger man has no response, Kenobi understands and says both of them will find their way. He leaves as Anakin ponders his words in silence.

Cut to the capital vessel coming out of hyperspace. Inside Kwade walks through a corridor before arriving at a large hall filled with various keepsakes and war artifacts. Phakerem stands in the middle looking across them all with the camera still not getting a good look at her. Draezin comments on all of “them” being the reminiscing type and as she turns around we finally get a good luck at the front of her face, revealing a Predator like alien face with grey-green skin. 

The General responds that the room has more history in it than anything else in the galaxy, and with an eye roll Draezin points out that for both of them, they need to be concerned about the future, not the past. He reports on the status of the fleet, specifically mentioning that the upgrades have shown no problems thus far so once the work is finished and her scout ships have returned they can depart for Nar Shadda. 

She is somewhat unresponsive, still focused on the various artifacts, and saying that after Nar Shadda speed must be their top priority above everything else. 

As they continue to converse it becomes apparent the two don’t particularly care for each other, and after she makes a contemptuous remark towards his “fellow pirates and smugglers”, Kwade angrily points to the intelligence and ships his associates have supplied and without them “You and your little tribe would be still be on the edge of the galaxy licking your wounds.” Phakerem is not amused and retorts that without “their” actions they’d have neither the means to get ships or crews to man them.  

Noticing the tension, Kwade backs off and lays on the charm, opining that with both of their collective efforts; so much ground will be gained so quickly that the only real problem left will be the Jedi. When he mentions them, Phakerem becomes focused again, picking up a lightsaber hanging on the wall and activating it. She makes it clear that whatever armies Draezin’s forces want to engage with, “they” will deal with the Jedi. 

He gets intrigued and asks if the Jedi actually still know of them. The camera focuses on the general’s hands covered with energized and gauntleted gloves as she actually able to grip the beam of the saber. “They will remember.”

Cut to a spaceport where Darelda walks off her ship. One of her crew members insists on escorting her, but pointedly states that the instructions were specific, and that they can’t afford to attract attention or scare the contact off. He wishes her good luck as she orders him and the rest of the crew to get in contact with the rest of the fleet to see what they got out of Kwade.

Cut to Mos Eisley where in the speeder the family, plus Ben, arrives to do business. He and Anakin have a slightly difficult goodbye, with Skywalker wishing him luck in finding a ship. As he departs, Beru does her best to reassure a troubled Anakin and Owen points out they have much to do before mid-day. Skywalker looks back somewhat sadly at Kenobi in the distance.

Beru, her husband, and her brother make their way across the city, with the former two chatting about the farm and the latter trying to focus on the business at hand. Along the way, unnoticed by his family, he spots a shop trashed and violently robbed. Concerned, he walks over to look inside and sees the beaten and bruised shop owner who was threatened before futilely trying to clean up his store. 

He almost stumbles back, and needs a moment to take everything in. Eventually he goes into the shop directly, leaves some credits on the floor without a word, and slowly walks off. After a few moments of his head bowed in guilt, we see Anakin’s face grow very determined. He starts to head off in search of Kenobi.

Owen and Beru stop him wondering what he’s doing. He explains that he can’t in good conscience stay on Tatooine when someone like Obi-Wan needs help. “Its not like I hate being here, I like it, but there’s something I know I can do right now. Owen is outraged, but Anakin explains he won’t be gone for good and for Lars to look after his sister in the interim. Beru tries to stop him one last time, and he assures her that the two of them and the farm will be fine.

From behind the audience sees the same armored figure from the Jundland Wastes stalking the back alleys of the city.

Kenobi is walking through various docking bays, looking for potential pilots to negotiate with, when he stops, once again sensing something big coming. He readies himself and when he hears something, turns around and lifts his lightsaber to defend… only to see Anakin right next to him. Kenobi is half surprised and half amused, and asks what he’s doing there.

Slightly out of breath, Skywalker earnestly admits “If I leave this place, I’ll have some regrets, I’ll have some fears, and I know that. But there’s something bigger in the galaxy I want to be a part of. I want to find my way.” The Jedi takes this in and questions “Do you believe someone can guide you to that?” With the same determination as before Anakin responds “The Force can.” 

Kenobi is visibly pleased and after a beat states that just outside Bothan space he was supposed to rendezvous with various other Republic ships as part of an investigation before he was attacked and that hopefully some of the fleet or at least some trade ships are still there. He asks if Anakin’s freighter mentioned earlier can get them there and is told that it can.   

The young man mentions its location and starts to lead him to it, but Kenobi suddenly uses his lightsaber to block a blaster shot heading towards Skywalker. Both see the same heavily armored soldier shooting from an above floor and his appearance immediately gets Obi-Wan’s attention. The two take cover behind some nearby crates, and Kenobi realizes the pilot of the earlier craft survived.

He tells Anakin to get away and get the ship ready while he takes care of the assaulting warrior. The young man objects, but Obi-Wan says to have some faith in him. They share a nod, and after a moment Anakin blasts at the pilot and manages to get away as the latter focuses on his main target. Kenobi looks around the immediate area and spots a steel grate nearby which he uses an improvised shield for protection. The attacker continually blasts at him as the Jedi Knight climbs his way up to the same floor. 

Finally both level; the pilot attempts to shoot an overhead fixture, which Kenobi just barely dodges as it falls to the ground. Growing frustrated, the armored aggressor resorts to a double assault with a blaster pistol and wide energy waves from miniature cannon on his arm. Kenobi uses the surrounding cover to dodge the waves. 

Thinking over his options, he closes his eyes and seems to calms himself. Various blaster shots firing around him, the Jedi stands up and deflects a blaster shot at a specific angle to send it right into the arm cannon of the pilot getting his attention. 

This distraction allows Obi-Wan to get close and cuts off the tip of his blaster, but the attacker backs off again and gets out of the range of his lightsaber. Frustration is noticeable on the soldier and he tries yet another wide energy wave, but the damaged arm cannon explodes, sending him falling to the docking bay, killing him. The Jedi looks somewhat overwhelmed and climbs down. 

He approaches the slain body carefully looking it over. Slowly he takes off his helmet as he and the audience sees a familiar green-grey skinned alien underneath. Obi-Wan is shocked and quickly rushes off. He soon arrives at the docking bay and we see the freighter for the first time, a long and sleek vessel with considerable cargo space in back. Kenobi pays little attention to it and calls over Anakin who’s doing finishing touches on the outside.

Skywalker begins to describe some of the quick business they need to do before takeoff, however Kenobi cuts him off and announces that the trip must be done as soon as possible and that whatever’s going on is much bigger than a few missing ships. Anakin doesn’t fully understand, but acquiesces and tells him that if that’s the case then they’ll have to leave now before the rest of the crew finds out what they’re planning. 

Both inside the ship, Kenobi gives the coordinates for the system emphasizing that whatever they find there will be imperative. The ship takes off and flies off planet, about to go into hyperspace. As calculations are put in, Anakin iterates that the ship is prone to looking better than it flies and that light speed won’t be the easiest ride. Kenobi is nonchalant about that issue. “If what I fear is happening, we’re about to go to the farthest thing from easy.”

The ship shakes slightly before launching into hyperspace. Noticing Kenobi’s troubled face Skywalker opines that it has to be pretty bad if a Jedi is worried, a statement that causes he former to smirk and remark that it happens more often than one would think. Now serious, the young man asks point blank what happened with the attacker and Obi-Wan with a heavy sigh states that he believes it was a Mandalorian soldier. Anakin’s confused and states he’s never heard of them, and Kenobi points out that most haven’t. 

He tells a story of how over 1000 years ago, a group of skilled and vicious shocktroopers called the Mandalorians invaded the Republic, and succeeded in conquering many star systems. While they imposed their will in many occupied territories, the various Jedi Knights rallied together and fought back, and with the Mandalorian’s refusal to surrender and insistence on not often retreating, their numbers were drastically reduced. 

“The legend went that not a single one fled or was captured.” Anakin takes this in and comments “But some did get away.” Kenobi can only stare forward as the Tatooine native gets increasingly alarmed, stands up, and internally puts the pieces together, eventually wondering if they’d want vengeance enough to go after a Jedi so blatantly and reveal themselves. 

Obi-Wan replies that the Mandalorians wouldn’t just seek revenge alone and that whatever is going on is important enough to keep anyone from finding out. “We have to find out what happened to the fleet.”

Cut to the surface of Nar Shadda, where Darelda, now dressed in street clothes carefully but casually walks along the streets. The city she’s in is rife with sleaze, with all sorts of types as pedestrians, and plenty of dubious looking businesses seen all around. While she looks somewhat uncomfortable, she raises no fuss and does her best to ignore the various loud peddlers attempting to sell their wares. When a young would be pick-pocket gets close, she stares him down and he eventually runs off. 

Getting further away from downtown she stops out and of the corner of her eye notices a dilapidated office building with the Republic insignia, clearly abandoned and covered in various bits of graffiti. Organa shakes her head and continues walking, eventually arriving in small alley away from the hub of the downtown city. She stops near a series of containers and waits. 

After a few moments a soft, but hurried alien voice is heard getting closer and with subtitles we see it telling her that she’s lucky that people on Nar Shadda enjoy the night life so much, otherwise she would have been spotted easy. A male Twi'lek in a coat walks briskly to her and immediately hands her a small data cube. She attempts to get details but he explains that neither one of them has enough time for it and tells her to get back to her ship as quickly as possible. 

When he tries to walk off in the other direction he makes out a distant figure at the other end of the alley. He stops and looks back at Darelda. After a beat, he calmly tells her that as soon he turns back, that she has to run. She asks “What about you?”, but when he says nothing, she sadly understands. He readies his blaster, turns back, and starts firing at the figure while she bolts off in the other direction. 

The firing match between the two ends quickly enough as the Twi’lek is soon shot down, and lies wounded. The figure, revealed to be a masked humanoid in clothing vaguely similar to Kwade’s, walks up and finishes him off. He then readies his bowcaster rifle at the fleeing Darelda. Cut to just outside the alley where the sound of both a blaster shot and a body hitting the ground is heard. 

Cut to the cargo ship where now Anakin is seen deep in thought, only speaking to tell Kenobi they should be at the coordinates soon enough. The other man nods, and after a moment’s hesitation Anakin asks how he became a Jedi. That question brings a wistful smile to the Jedi Knight’s face, and he recalls his past, mentioning that when he was younger, he was quite reckless and adventurous. 

“Before I even knew of the Force I felt that no matter what, there was something protecting me, giving me strength.” Skywalker is delightfully surprised by this, finding it hard to believe. Obi-Wan goes into some detail about when the Jedi heard of his exploits, they made him realize he could use his connection to the Force for something far greater than seeking a few thrills. 

Obi-Wan assures him that he’ll find Skywalker an ideal teacher, and that there are countless Jedi who could do wonders for his training. Anakin asks if that includes him, but Kenobi hesitates and says that his mastery of the Force is strong, but that he isn’t certain if he himself has learned all he needs to. “Becoming a true Jedi master is not the easiest of paths.” 

Kenobi’s own master is mentioned, though not named, as someone who opened his eyes by asking him questions of all types and of matters he didn’t think about. Anakin listens intently as the Knight explains that the path of the Force will reveal many truths to him, and will have him realize points of view he never could have conceived of beforehand. With some seriousness he notes that the life of Jedi is one filled with tests, with dangers beyond even the risks of battle; adding that he’ll learn of them soon enough. 

Anakin digests the man’s words carefully and states that he’s ready for any truth, no matter what. He takes the time to say he’s glad Kenobi has brought him along, specifically referring to him as Ben and clearly looking at him with great respect and a bit of affection. “I don’t know, just being here with you, I’ve got a very good feeling about this.”

From behind the cockpit a slightly disheveled Carima emerges completely stunned by what she sees. “Have you lost your mind?” The two men turn back with Kenobi a bit confused and Skywalker a bit alarmed himself. She demands to know what’s going on and Anakin attempts to diplomatically explain that he’s using the ship for a necessary trip, but she remains flabbergasted that he’s taken a commercial property and taking it out for his own purpose.

He again attempts to clarify, but pauses and asks her what she’s doing on the freighter anyway. When she sputters some excuses, out loud he realizes that she fell asleep on the ship again, which gets her ticked and again ranting about what they’ve done. In an attempt to calm her he says that she’s got nothing to be afraid of. Unconvinced, Niwir responds: “I’m in a stolen ship with a random man I’ve never met before and a co-worker who’s apparently gone insane; what don’t I have to be afraid of?”

Anakin explains that Ben is no random man; he’s a Jedi Knight on a mission. She stares, mouth agape before asking how he knows that and how a Jedi even ended up on Tatooine anyway. The young man starts going into motormouth mode telling of how Kenobi crashed and the subsequent attack in Mos Eisley, but Obi-Wan calmly steps in and tells her that he is indeed working for the Republic and at the moment the ship is necessary for something of vital importance,

Too flummoxed to stand, she sits down and wonders aloud how she’s going to explain any of this to the boss back home, that if she gets home at all. Anakin assures here that once they can get another ship somehow, the freighter can be brought back and he’ll take full blame for the ship’s disappearance. Obi-Wan adds that she and her employer will be compensated well for any inconvenience that occurs. 

While somewhat more persuaded she asks where they’re even taking the spice freighter, with Kenobi telling her of his failed rendezvous and its coordinates just outside Bothan space. Skywalker also explains that once he heard Ben was looking into the missing vessels in the outer rim he decided to lend his help. “And drag me along with you” she grumbles. Before Anakin can assuage her more, a beeping sound is heard, and he confirms that they’ve arrived. 

He takes the ship out of hyperspace, and immediately a virtual graveyard of destroyed craft is seen, with various bits of fighters and freighters floating everywhere. All three are stunned, and a slightly flustered Anakin scans everywhere, only to say that there are no readings of active vessels anywhere in the system. Obi-Wan grimly observes that these are all the debris of Republic ships. Carima can only watch aghast at the destruction. 

There is a silence as Anakin continues scanning until he is confused by a reading, quickly describing some sort of faint signal that’s apparently in the system but its location can’t be specifically identified. Finally speaking up, Niwir points out that whatever they’re looking for, with all the debris flying around, it could be anywhere and that they can’t find it without closely scanning every bit of the remains

Kenobi however, gets an epiphany and states that Skywalker can find it, reminding him that he was able to sense his presence on Tatooine and that he can do the same here. Anakin is really not sure about that, explaining that locating one man in an empty dessert is one thing, but this is countless pieces in open space. The Jedi Knight tells him that the force was flowing in him now and just as it was then, and that whether he’s fully aware or not, he does have a command over it. 

Gently, he instructs Anakin to look past all of the debris and just feel where the signal is, all the while as Carima looks at both like they’re crazy. Skywalker obliges though, and after some visible effort and slight frustration begins to look over the cockpit window with his eyes, adjusting the vessel until he eventually stops and points to small piece of a wing in the distance. “Its there.”

The ships heads over to it and much to Niwir’s incredulity, the signal does get stronger. Kenobi listens carefully and while familiar he can’t quite place its type. “It’s definitely a Republic code, but-” He’s cut off as a loud thud is heard on the roof of the ship. The two Tatooine natives draw their blasters, while Obi-Wan confirms that wasn’t a blaster or a torpedo shot. A silver metallic figure quickly goes across the cockpit window, immediately causing Anakin to whisper that something’s on the ship. 

A fast crawling is heard on the side of the freighter, getting towards the rear. Carima starts to pilot, shouting that they need to get fast enough to knock it off, but Anakin states they don’t even know what it is. An argument almost breaks out with the two as she says that’s all the more reason to get out of here and he rebuts that this could be their only chance to find out what happened. 

Kenobi silences them both, and says that the sound has stopped. A pounding noise then starts to reverberate from the rear, and the three go towards the storage area to investigate. Skywalker and Niwir quickly figure out what’s going on with him surmising that it wants inside, and she replies they can’t let that happen. Obi-Wan calmly tells that if this were a trap it would involve a weapon, ship, or a mine; something strong and effective. 

She’s still worried. “Unless that’s what it want us to think.” Kenobi says to open the rear entrance, and Anakin goes to hit the switch only for Carima to stop him, saying that they have no idea what’s out there. He tells her with great confidence that they can handle it and “You said I was good; am I good enough for you to trust me now?” There is a couple of beats as the only sound is the continued pounding on the rear door before she finally sighs and lets him hit the switch. “Skywalker, you’re going to owe me big for this.”

The rear door opened, the pounding stops and the thing is heard coming into the storage area. The switch is hit again and Anakin notes that between the rear and mid ship doors closed they could keep it trapped if they wanted. Obi-Wan shakes his head and says they need to know what they’re dealing with. All three ready their weapons, and after confirmation by the older Jedi, Anakin hits another switch, opening the second door. 

Instantly a tall and sleek droid steps out, with attached blaster readied and covered by a bluish shield in front. A standoff ensues with Skywalker and Kenobi asking to put its weapon down and tell them what it wants. From the head of the droid emerges a jovial, but forceful voice, saying that it can do no such thing until they confirm what they’re doing here. Tensions get very heated until Niwir, somehow intrigued by its appearance notes that it’s an HX unit. 

Still with its weapon raised, the droid confirms verifies that; stating he’d be compliment her good eye if they all weren’t currently pointing blasters at each other. Either ignoring or not caring about the remark she (with a slight hint of enthusiasm) points out to the other two the rarity of such models, even on big Republic ships. The droid responds with the same level of light charm, “Hmm, it’s not often I am physically threatened by those aware of my monetary value.”

The conversation between the two brings realization to Obi-Wan, and after recalling some information, he mentions out loud that a HX unit’s in the service of Darelda Organa. The droid turns to him and says that name is not one thrown about casually. When Kenobi states that he’s looking for her for her safety, the droid responds that while he’d like to believe that’s true, he’s already seen enough, and that if he has any ill intentions towards the senator, he too can become part of the other debris floating in this system. 

Anakin shouts that it’s dealing with a Jedi Knight and things won’t be that easy. The droid receives this information with some doubt, but after examining the middle aged man closely, he acknowledges his identity as a Jedi and in turn Obi-Wan identifies him as HX-81, personal security droid to Senator Organa. Kenobi gestures for the other two to lower their weapons, which she does with some ease and he with more reluctance. 

81 recalls his blaster and dissipates his shield. Once again he looks over the Jedi Knight. “Not to be rude, but you’re a bit late.” Obi-Wan explains the surprise attack and asks what happened here. 81 enlightens the three that they were receiving information from Draezin Kwade, whom Carima recognizes as a well known criminal in the outer rim, specifically that his raiders have been stealing supplies from ships for years. 

The droid continues, describing that a large fleet of unknown vessels appeared out of nowhere and soon destroyed every single Republic ship. Carima inquires as to how he survived and he mentions in a matter of fact manner that once his ship was blown in half, he clung to a destroyed section, deactivated most of his systems, and waited till the attackers jumped to hyperspace. A touch of curiosity and unease in his voice, he says that he didn’t think any ship would find his signal so quickly. 

Kenobi quickly says the droid was lucky to be found by a future Jedi Knight, pointing to Anakin. 81 stares at the young man a moment. “Indeed.” Skywalker remains slightly stolid, though clearly pleased at the older man’s words. HX however soon goes back to the business at hand noting that their key priority is the Senator, and says that she went to lightspeed just before the attack and is presumably executing her more important mission. 

When pressed for details, the 81 simply says that he knows she was looking to gather intelligence on Nar Shadda, but that any further information about what she was planning was highly classified. Kenobi opines that if that’s where went, they have to get there soon; telling Anakin to get the ship ready for hyperspace. The droid gets in somewhat close and asks if she’s in real danger. 

“Not just her, but the entire Republic. I fear something terrible is about to happen.” From outside the jumps to light speed. 

More to come...