The comic book story "World of Fire!" kicks off a trilogy of comics penned by Chris Claremont. Its initial publication occurred in the UK within the pages of Star Wars Weekly 107–109. Later, in 1981, it was republished as Star Wars 2: World of Fire, taking its title from the initial installment featured in Star Wars Weekly 107. The other two parts that make up the original story are "Star Terror!" and "Molten Doom!." The narrative continues in The Word for World is Death! and The Guardian of Forever!.
World of Fire! details the adventure of Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, together with Mici Shabandar, as they attempt to steal a prototype vessel, the Staraker, from the clutches of the Galactic Empire. Their near escape is thwarted when they are shot down over the Alashan system, resulting in a crash landing amidst a lava field on the planet called Alashan.
Wadie Firestone and Arlo Tyre, two Rebel operatives, journey to Alashan to investigate a Rebel archaeological dig site where contact has been lost. Their search leads them to discover corpses, prompting them to venture into a cave. Almost immediately, Arlo is bisected by a laser blast. Wadie makes a hasty retreat in his Y-Wing, attempting to escape, only to be shot down from the sky.
In a parallel storyline, Leia Organa Solo, Luke Skywalker, R2-D2, C-3PO, and Mici Shabandar infiltrate the planet Foundry with the intention of stealing the Staraker. Their presence is detected, leading to a fierce exchange of fire with stormtrooper. Successfully reaching the Staraker, Leia sustains a gunshot wound. With Luke at the controls, Mici assists the injured Leia aboard, and they launch into space.
Leia is given time to recuperate, and they set a course for Yavin 4. En route, General Jan Dodonna establishes communication, redirecting them to Alashan. He explains that both the archaeological team and Rebel scouting parties have gone silent. Upon entering the Alashan system, they are ambushed by a wing of TIE fighters. After eliminating the TIE fighters, an Imperial cruiser blocks their escape route. Suddenly, a concentrated beam of energy erupts from Alashan, obliterating the cruiser.
The Staraker comes under attack, and the crew attempts a planetary landing. During the descent, a panel explodes, severely injuring Mici. Luke struggles to maintain control, but then receives guidance from a vision of Obi-Wan Kenobi, who urges him to trust in the Force. Leia attends to Mici's injuries while Luke fights to land the ship. However, the hatch remains sealed shut, obstructed by solidified lava. In desperation, Luke cries out, "We're buried alive!"