Star Wars (2015) 8
Star Wars number 8 represents the eighth installment of the 2015 canon comic book series titled, Star Wars([/article/star_wars_(2015)]). Notably, this issue marks the beginning of the second story arc in the series, which is known as Showdown on the Smuggler's Moon. Jason Aaron is credited as the writer, while the illustrations were crafted by Stuart Immonen, Wade Von Grawbadger, and Justin Ponsor. Marvel Comics released this issue to the public on August 19, 2015.
Official Synopsis
Luke's journey to uncover the secrets of the Jedi continues, leading him towards the Jedi Temple situated on Coruscant. Meanwhile, Han and Leia find themselves face-to-face with an unexpected adversary. The talented Stuart Immonen joins the rebellion as the new series artist!
Detailed Plot
Problems within the Monsua Nebula
A vessel of the Imperial Star Destroyer class makes its way into the Monsua Nebula after receiving information about a pair of enemy ships located on an uncharted planet within the system. One of these ships is identified as a stolen Imperial shuttle. Due to the inability to scan the planet effectively, the Star Destroyer deploys a squadron of TIE fighters and bombers. Acting upon the Captain's orders, the TIE bombers initiate their bombing sequence.
On the surface of the planet, Princess Leia Organa is taken aback by the revelation that Han Solo was supposedly married to Sana Starros. Solo questions Sana about how she managed to locate them. Sana explains that she simply positioned a probe droid in the planet's orbit, waiting for their arrival. Sana reveals that she knew this planet was their preferred meeting spot. Before pressing her blaster against his chin, Sana kisses Solo.
Sana comments that Princess Leia is not as attractive as Solo's usual type, while Princess Leia remains in disbelief regarding Solo's marital status. Solo refutes the claim that he was ever married to Starros. Princess Leia decides to step away and allow them to resolve their issues, but Sana recognizes her and attempts to claim the bounty placed on her. Starros informs Princess Leia that Solo had previously swindled the daughter of a Sultan from the Boz Pity system. She suggests that Solo might be deceiving Princess Leia as well.
Despite Solo's denials, Princess Leia demands to know why his "wife" is holding a weapon against her. Solo insists that Starros is not his wife. Starros offers to provide documentation to support her claims, but their argument is interrupted by the sight of proton bombs descending through the atmosphere. Leia attempts to board the stolen Imperial shuttle, but Starros commands the Volt Cobra's laser cannons to destroy the shuttle, effectively trapping them. Sana declares to Solo that his "little scam" has come to an end and that it is time for him to face the consequences. She intends to sell Princess Leia to the Galactic Empire and to reclaim Solo as her "husband."
Journey into the Depths of the Smuggler's Moon
In a parallel narrative, Luke Skywalker expresses his frustration that his deceased Master Obi-Wan Kenobi only provided him with a book of stories instead of guidance on how to wield lightsabers and harness the Force. Driven by his quest for Jedi knowledge, Skywalker decides to postpone his return to the Alliance Fleet until he has found the answers he seeks. With the intention of finding the Jedi "home," Skywalker mistakenly ends up on Nar Shaddaa, also known as the "Smuggler's Moon," a planet filled with outlaws and pirates.
Lost and disoriented, Skywalker decides to locate the worst-looking bar. However, his presence immediately makes him stand out. The Zabrak bartender instructs the bar's patrons to attack and rob Skywalker, perceiving him as an easy target. Skywalker defends himself but is knocked against a table. He ignites his lightsaber, captivating the attention of the crowd. An alien thief notices Skywalker and instructs his companions to bring down the big guy.
The Zabrak bartender retreats and inquires about the origin of Skywalker's weapon. Skywalker responds that he came to conduct business and that they attempted to kill him. The bartender apologizes for his impoliteness and offers him a drink. Skywalker reiterates that he is seeking information on how to reach Coruscant. The bartender explains that the Jedi Temple is heavily guarded by Imperial forces and offers to "help" in exchange for Skywalker's lightsaber.
Skywalker refuses to give up his father's lightsaber. The bartender reveals that this bar was previously owned by his father and asks if Skywalker still desires to go to Coruscant. Since Skywalker is unwilling to trade his lightsaber, the bartender orders his henchmen to rob Skywalker and feed him to the scum-squids. Skywalker activates his lightsaber but is shocked by the alien thief's magna-glove, who then flees with his lightsaber. Skywalker chases after the thief while the bartender shouts orders to retrieve the lightsaber.
Reversing the Situation
Returning to the uncharted planet, Sana Starros establishes contact with the Imperial Star Destroyer, hoping to collect the Imperial bounty on Princess Leia. Solo attempts to reason with Sana, but Princess Leia criticizes him for his lack of wisdom in dealing with women. When Sana addresses Solo, Solo apologizes for his roguish behavior.
Princess Leia kicks Solo into Sana Starros, causing her to drop her weapon. Leia retrieves a blaster from her boot and holds them at gunpoint. Leia declares that she will not allow them to sell her to the Empire. Suddenly, a squadron of TIE fighters and bombers descends through the atmosphere.