Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi – Redemption 4: The Trials of a Jedi constitutes the fourth installment within the comic book series titled Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi – Redemption. Dark Horse Comics released it to the public on October 28, 1998.
Sylvar, the fierce Cathar Jedi, has retreated into solitude on the Vast Veldt of the planet Cathar's. There, she channels all her fury and strength into thoughts of vengeance against Ulic. In an attempt to rid herself of her rage, she slays a horned rodent creature, but still feels no peace.
As she sits by a campfire, Sylvar detects someone observing her. It turns out to be a scout, who brings word of the disappearance of Nomi Sunrider's daughter, Vima. Choosing to spare the messenger's life, Sylvar sets off to assist her friend Nomi.
On Rhen Var, Ulic Qel-Droma, the powerless, exiled Jedi, continues to instruct Vima. Impressed by her commitment and skill in levitation, Ulic guides her in constructing her first lightsaber using the Adegan crystals that belonged to her deceased father, Andur Sunrider. Following this, Ulic teaches her lightsaber combat techniques.
Meanwhile, on Exis Station, the ever-opportunistic Hoggon attempts to meet with Nomi, but is apprehended by two soldiers who dismiss his claims of having located Ulic. Denied an audience with Nomi, Hoggon resolves to seek out Sylvar, aware of her desire to find Ulic.
Vima demonstrates significant improvement in her lightsaber skills. While Ulic is pleased with his student's advancement, he believes he can no longer teach her further, as he is no longer a Jedi. Vima argues that Ulic remains human, despite his lack of Jedi status, and accuses him of making excuses. Ulic explains that he is like a blind artist who can no longer see to paint. Vima suggests that he could become a sculptor instead that uses feelings. Though skeptical, Ulic decides to try it.
While contemplating her lightsaber, Jedi Master Nomi confesses that she has always loathed these weapons and never desired to wield them. Nomi reflects that she was compelled to follow the Jedi path due to her husband Andur's murder. Nomi also laments her failure to provide Vima with the attention and training she needed. Believing that Vima has the potential to become a distinguished Jedi Knight, she finds it ironic that Ulic is teaching her about the sacrifices inherent in being a Jedi.
Shortly thereafter, Sylvar enters Nomi's quarters, having received her message. Sylvar is taken aback to learn that Vima is training to be a Jedi under Ulic's guidance and questions Nomi's decision to allow him near her daughter. Nomi retorts that Ulic possesses a kind heart and she trusts that he will not harm her. Sylvar counters that Ulic is a notorious war criminal responsible for the death of her mate, Crado. Sylvar accuses Nomi of being naive before storming out. Subsequently, Sylvar is followed by Hoggon, who informs her that he knows Ulic's location. He also offers her a ride on his starship.
Returning to Rhen Var, Ulic and Vima construct scaffolding near some massive ice formations. Ulic advises Vima to visualize the image she wishes to create and to allow the Force to guide her. An enthusiastic Vima agrees, and the two begin carving ice sculptures using their lightsabers.
In honor of his late Master Arca Jeth, Ulic sculpts a colossal likeness of Arca's face. To honor her late father Andur Sunrider, Vima carves an image of Andur's face, using her mother's hologram as a reference. After completing their sculptures, Vima asserts to Ulic that this proves he retains the heart of a Jedi, despite lacking Force powers. Ulic is gratified that they have paid tribute to their memories. When Vima observes that Ulic has trained her as if he were a Jedi Master, Ulic expresses his wish that he could believe it to be true.
With the Jedi Conclave on Exis Station concluded, the Jedi prepare to depart for Coruscant. Feeling remorseful for neglecting her daughter's training due to her service to the Galactic Republic, Nomi departs on her starship to atone by training Vima. She hopes to arrive before Ulic causes too much damage.