Star Wars (1977) 73

Star Wars #73 will present a narrative penned by Mary Jo Duffy, with illustrations by Ron Frenz and inks by Armando Gil [sic]. The story will depict PRINCESS LEIA partnering with a woman who seeks the affections of LUKE SKYWALKER.

Following Dani's integration into the Rebel forces in the preceding issue, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, Lando Calrissian, R2-D2, C-3PO, and Dani journey to Lahsbane to retrieve datatapes from the wreckage of a Rebel pilot's craft, specifically that of Yom Argo. Luke's attempts to communicate with the indigenous Lahsbees, utilizing C-3PO for translation, are hampered by their frivolous attitude and Dani's flirtatious behavior. The Lahsbee eventually reveal that both Argo and a Lahsbee aiding him perished in the crash, leading the natives to place the tapes in the Forbidden City as a tribute. A vast canyon separates the city from their landing site, rendering flight impossible due to the Millennium Falcon's intake valves being obstructed by pervasive pollen. While R2 commences the day-long task of pollen removal, the urgency escalates with the arrival of a shuttle carrying Imperials, also in pursuit of Argo. As the Imperial officer initiates questioning of the Lahsbee, Lando and Luke hastily conceal themselves, leaving Leia and Dani feeling marginalized. This perceived insignificance sparks a rivalry, culminating in a challenge to retrieve the Argo datatapes from the Forbidden City to prove their capabilities. Both agree to embark on this mission under the cover of night.

As dusk settles, the two women secure a pair of hot air balloons to traverse the canyon. During their preparations, they narrowly evade detection by the Imperials due to Dani's resourcefulness. Upon reaching the city, they begin their exploration, noting the unusually large doorways considering the Lahsbees' small stature. Meanwhile, aboard the Millennium Falcon, C-3PO informs Lando and Luke of Leia and Dani's endeavor, causing them to fear for their safety. Luke immediately departs to locate them, utilizing a rudimentary glider. Simultaneously, Lando is ambushed by a Huhk, the mature and aggressive form of the Lahsbee species. Chewbacca attempts to subdue the Huhk, but is gradually overwhelmed by its superior strength. C-3PO clarifies that Lahsbees transform into Huhks and relocate to the Forbidden City, intensifying Lando's concern for Leia and Dani. Just as Chewbacca is about to succumb to the Huhk's grasp, Lando manages to incapacitate the Huhk with a stun blast.

Within the Forbidden City, Leia and Dani eventually discover the datatapes amidst a substantial collection of treasures. While Leia secures the tapes, Dani seizes the opportunity to pilfer a considerable amount of treasure. However, their departure is impeded by a large group of Huhks, who quickly corner them. Defenseless, the two are rescued at the last second by Luke, who stuns the Huhks with his blaster. With the tapes in their possession, the group returns to the Millennium Falcon, now repaired by R2. The Lahsbees willingly relinquish the tapes upon learning of their connection to advanced technology, which they despise. As the Rebels prepare for departure, they are surprised to witness the Imperial shuttle in flight, despite the Lahsbees' earlier report of the Imperials remaining on patrol. Inside the Imperial shuttle, Dani is surrounded by the stolen treasure, en route back to Rik Duel.