ADVENTURES OF
THE STARKILLER
(episode one)
"The Star Wars"
by
George Lucas
LUCASFILM LIMITED
SECOND DRAFT 52 Park Way
San Anselmo
January 28, 1975 California 94960
"...And in the time of greatest
despair there shall come a savior,
and he shall be known as: THE SON
OF THE SUNS."
Journal of the Whills, 3:127
FADE IN:
1. SPACE
A vast sea of stars is broken as the warm, amber surface
of the planet, UTAPAU, emerges from a total eclipse. Five
small moons slowly drift into view from the far side of
the planet. The MAIN TITLE is followed by a ROLL-UP: The REPUBLIC GALACTICA is dead. Ruthless
trader barons, driven by greed and the
lust for power, have replaced enlightenment
with oppression, and "rule by the people"
with the FIRST GALACTIC EMPIRE. Until the tragic Holy Rebellion of "06",
the respected JEDI BENDU OF ASHLA were the
most powerful warriors in the Universe.
For a hundred thousand years, generations
of Jedi Bendu knights learned the ways of
the mysterious FORCE OF OTHERS, and acted
as the guardians of peace and justice in
the REPUBLIC. Now these legendary warriors
are all but extinct. One by one they have
been hunted down and destroyed by a fero-
cious rival sect of mercenary warriors:
THE BLACK KNIGHTS OF THE SITH. It is a period of civil wars. The EMPIRE
is crumbling into lawless barbarism through-
out the million worlds of the galaxy. From
the celestial equator to the farthest
reaches of the GREAT RIFT, seventy small
solar systems have united in a common war
against the tyranny of the Empire. Under
the command of a mighty Jedi warrior known
as THE STARKILLER, the REBEL ALLIANCE has
won a crushing victory over the deadly
IMPERIAL STAR FLEET. The Empire knows that
one more such defeat will bring a thousand
more solar systems into the rebellion, and
Imperial control of the Outlands could be
lost forever... A tiny silver space craft races from behind one of the
lifeless Utapau moons. The small rebel spacefighter is
being chased by four giant Imperial stardestroyers. Hun-
dreds of deadly laser bolts streak from the Imperial
warships as they dive on the smaller craft. Every few moments, the little rebel ship returns the fire,
until one of the Imperial battlewagons explodes, causing
it to fall out of formation. The three remaining star-
destroyers continue the pursuit. 2. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - LASER GUN TURRET
The two elaborate laser gun turrets belch a smoky exhaust
as the gun crews, wearing heat-protective suits, goggles
and breath masks, cheer and congratulate each other on the
direct hit. The gunnery CHIEF finishes speaking into his
helmet "com-link", and yells to the crew. CHIEF
I don't know what you boys are
so cheery about; there are still
three more out there. The crews snap-to, and turn back to their giant guns. Sev-
eral stubby, three-legged ROBOTS scurry to and fro, bring-
ing equipment, and repairing damage to sections of the
turrets. 3. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - MAIN PASSAGEWAY
The chaos of battle echoes through the narrow, main passage-
way of the starfighter. An explosion rocks the ship, and
two construction robots, ARTOO DETOO (R2-D2) and SEE THREEPIO
(C-3PO) struggle to make their way through the shaking,
bouncing passageway. Both robots are old and battered.
Artoo is a short (36 inches), claw-armed, tri-ped. His face
is a mass of computer lights, surrounding a radar eye.
Threepio, on the other hand, is a tall, slender robot of
human proportions. He has a gleaming bronze-like metallic
surface of an "Art Deco" design. THREEPIO
Artoo, my friend, this is madness!
If this keeps up, we're going to
be destroyed. I'm afraid I'm still
not accustomed to space travel...
What are we to do? The little dwarf robot makes a series of electronic sounds
that only a robot could understand. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Relax?!?...What do you mean we're
in no immediate danger??! You're
faulty, this is madness! Artoo gives his tall companion a sheepish computer blink
and starts off down the hallway. . THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Artoo Detoo, wait! Wait a
minute. Threepio climbs through a hatch and starts after Artoo.
4. EXT. SPACE BATTLE
One of the giant Imperial Stardestroyers breaks formation
and surges ahead of the others, closing on the tiny rebel
space craft. The main battery of laser cannons on the
huge Imperial warship directs an overwhelming concentra-
tion or laser fire at the main solar fin on the rebel ship.
Finally it disintegrates, creating a spectacular heavenly
display. 5. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - POWER SECTION
A sudden pressure change sucks equipment and debris through
the power section of the spacefighter. Alarms are sound-
ing everywhere. The spaceship shudders under the impact
of the Imperial barrage. Artoo and Threepio are blown,
slipping and sliding across the hallway floor into a stack
of freight canisters. The lanky Threepio becomes lodged
under a computer console. THREEPIO
I'm dead!...I told you this
would happen. Artoo, I can't
move. Little Artoo waddles over to his trapped companion. He
clears away several mangled canisters and climbs under the
sparking and smoking computer. He is chattering away in
an elaborate combination of whistles, beeps and clicks. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Oh my, I think something is
melting. Artoo Detoo, this is
all your fault...I should have
known better than to listen to
a half-pint thermo-astronic
capulary dehousing - assister.
You're truly faulty. Artoo counters with a rather angry rebuttal as he struggles
to pull the larger robot free from the small leg space under
the computer console. Two MEN hurriedly enter the power
station and begin checking the damage. The robots can only
see the humans' legs as they pass to and fro in front of
the desk-like console; but they recognize the voice of their
captain: DEAK STARKILLER. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Shhh, it's the captain... The captain's FIRST OFFICER pops his head under the console
and sees Artoo straining to free Threepio. The little
robot stops. OFFICER
Well, Hello! Are you boys all
right? THREEPIO
Yes sir, I'll be out in a minute.
No damage that I can tell. Sorry
to be of trouble, sir... OFFICER
As you were. Artoo goes back to his pulling and pushing as the officer
again becomes a pair of legs, and is joined by the sturdier
legs of Captain Starkiller. OFFICER (CONT'D)
There's a C-3 unit jammed under
the console, but no damage, sir. Artoo uses one of his claw arms to cut away a small metal
beam bent around Threepio's shoulder. DEAK
The solar activators are burned
out. The shields are down.
They'll be boarding in no time.
There is a Sith knight among
them. I can feel his para-force.
Hurry, secure your assault posi-
tions. The BOGAN force is strong
with the enemy. OFFICER
Yes sir, the men are ready. The officer bows low and hurries out of the smoldering cham-
ber. Artoo stops his work, and the robots quietly watch
Deak's legs as he paces the room. He stands for a few mo-
ments in meditation. The two mechanical men suddenly feel
as if they are intruding, and every little creak and noise
becomes an embarrassment. A VOICE from another part of the
ship yells out to the captain, and he rushes out of the room.
Threepio breathes a sigh of relief. THREEPIO
I think there will be no es-
cape for the captain this time... 6. EXT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER
The smoldering silver rebel craft is quickly surrounded by
the three giant Imperial warships. One of the huge star-
destroyers moves into orbit just above the helpless rebel
spacefighter. 7. INT. IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - COCKPIT
An awesome array of lighted panels and computer monitors are
reflected in the polished black helmets of six Imperial
master-pilots. A fifth-ranked General of the Fleet sits in
a rotating chair suspended from the cabin ceiling, watching
the chief pilot maneuver the huge warship above the tiny
rebel spacefighter. CHIEF PILOT
That's as close as I dare take
her. CAPTAIN
(into intercom)
We are in position...stand by.
Remember, Lord Vader wants as
many of them taken alive as is
possible. There will be no
slaughter. 8. EXT. IMPERIAL STAR DESTROYER - UNDERBELLY
The huge gray underbelly of the Imperial warship hovers less
than twenty feet above the rebel spacefighter. A small hatch near one of the complex antenna groupings
silently slides open. With fascist precision, ten storm-
troopers wearing ominous armored spacesuits drop onto the
top of the disabled rebel craft. A burly sergeant aims
his powerful laser pistol at the silver hull. 9. INT. REBEL STAR FIGHTER - HALLWAY
A tremendous blast opens up a hole six feet wide in the
side of the main passageway, sucking equipment and debris
into the vacuum of space. Three fearsome stormtroopers
armed with chrome multi-laser rifles make their way through
the smoking debris into the padded hallway. The SERGEANT
and four more armored troopers quickly follow. SERGEANT
Use your blades! There's too
much risk of blaster ricochet
in these cramped quarters. The troops sling the rifles over their shoulders and take
a small baton from their belts, which instantly ignites
into a long glowing laser sword. At the far end of the passageway, a door swings wide reveal-
ing a rebel warrior wearing a breath mask and dressed in
the distinctive uniform of an AQUILLIAN RANGER. A long,
deadly laser sword glows in his right hand, while several
chrome ping-pong sized balls magically appear in his left.
Tiny antenna project from the chrome balls, and before the
stormtroopers can raise their weapons, the balls fly out
of the ranger's hand. One of the balls stops in the middle
of the troops and explodes. Three other balls shoot through
the hole ripped in the side of the ship. 10. EXT. IMPERIAL STARDESTROYER - UNDERBELLY
Six armored stormtroopers are assembled on the sleek silver
hull of the rebel spacefighter. The three chrome balls fly
out of the rebel craft just as several more troops drop from
the hatch of the Imperial stardestroyer. One or the seeker-
bombs explodes among the assembled troops, flinging most of
them into the vastness of space. The two remaining bombs
rocket toward the open hatch of the Imperial warship. One
of the surviving stormtroopers, clinging to the rebel craft,
yells into his helmet intercom as he aims a laser pistol at
the tiny chrome projectiles. TROOPER
Seekers! Seekers! Close the
hatches!! A blast from the laser pistol hits one of the balls, and
it explodes harmlessly outside the stardestroyer. The
second seeker bomb races into the stardestroyer, just as
the hatch slides closed. A muffled explosion is heard in-
side the huge spacecraft. 11. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - HALLWAY
The Aquillian ranger charges what's left of the storm-
troopers. He swings his glowing laser sword high over his
head; but before he can bring the deadly blade down on a
victim, four more troops enter the ship and assail the
ranger. He puts up a good fight, but soon falls under the
superior odds. A half dozen more armored stormtroopers
enter the damaged ship and cautiously make their way down
the narrow hallway. 12. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - COCKPIT
Smoke fills the crowded cockpit of the rebel starship. The
pilot struggles to remove a wounded comrade as an exhausted
Aquillian RANGER enters and bows before Deak Starkiller.
The young captain's face is covered by a small, ornate face
mask, but he appears to be about twenty-five years old. He
is wearing the loose-fitting robes of a Jedi knight. RANGER
The Bogan force is too strong
upon us. Our spirit is broken. DEAK
You must rally the men, fight
off your despair. The force of
others is still with us... RANGER
Clieg is dead. They're blasting
the lifepods before we can clear
the ship. We're trapped... DEAK
Then we must make this treachery
costly for them. Return to your
station. The ranger bows low before the Jedi starcaptain, and rushes
out of the cockpit. The pilot has returned to his seat in
front of the ship's main control board. DEAK (CONT'D)
What's the power now? PILOT (TYREE)
It's up to five point nine; but
we'll need a lot more to ignite
the engines...There just isn't
enough time... DEAK
Keep at it. I'm going aft. PILOT (TYREE)
But what about your father. He
must have the KIBER Crystal if
Ogana Major is to survive. He
won't be able to hold out against
the Imperial siege much longer.
The risk was too great. We'll
never be able to make contact
with Luke now. We've lost every-
thing. We should never... DEAK
You're feeling the Bogan's despair.
Be strong, Tyree, drive it from
your thoughts. Luke is father's
only hope...maybe there is still
a slim chance we might salvage
things. He moves to the computer bank, and speaks into the intercom.
DEAK (CONT'D)
All R-2 units stand by for new
prime directive programming... He turns back to the pilot for a moment.
DEAK (CONT'D)
What's the R-2 scramble code? Pilot (TYREE)
"Tan-takk RS-411". Do you think
one of them might get through? DEAK
I'm afraid the chances of an R-2
unit finding Luke down there are
much better than Luke's chances
of getting back to father...R-2
units compute as follows: Scramble
code, tan-takk RS-411. Prime
directive - contact code "Angel
blue". Seek OWEN LARS at or near
position: 321-DC-28. Relay the
following transcription: 13. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - MAIN HALLWAY
Little Artoo stands ridged in the middle of the smoke-filled
passageway. Threepio runs awkwardly toward the tiny robot
from a large hatchway at one end of the corridor. Artoo's
computer face blinks wildly. THREEPIO
We're cut off. They're coming
from that direction. I heard
them. Come on, we'll have to go
back the way we came. Artoo lets out a long musical whistle, but doesn't move.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Wait!?? They'll be here in mo-
ments! I have no intention of
getting sent to the spice mines
of KESSAL, or smashed into...
what?! A new prime directive!??!
Oh no! Not at a time like this!
How much longer? The muted sounds of grinding and crushing get louder until
a dozen Imperial stormtroopers, wearing spooky-looking armor,
enter the passageway. They arrange themselves geometrically,
their movements synchronized, as they move stealthily through
the unusually wide corridor. Threepio grabs his little part-
ner and struggles to drag him into the shadows of an emer-
gency ventilator system. Hard and weary, the troops advance
-- their glowing laser swords held at ready. Suddenly,
directly in back of the stormtroopers, about ten feet away,
the imposing young Jedi, Deak Starkiller, steps from behind
the open hatch. His chrome laser pistol still rests in its holster; but his
laser sword sparks to life with a sharp hum. One of the
troopers senses his presence and turns freezing momentarily.
The rest of the troops turn a second later, almost as a re-
flex action. A slow grim smile creeps across Deak's face,
as the troops realize they are outmatched. TROOPER
He's a Jedi. Use your blasters! Six troopers who are carrying their chrome laser rifles at
the ready start to step forward and raise their weapons.
Deak is quicker. In one amazing movement, he spins around,
replacing his laser sword to his belt, and draws his deadly
laser pistol, blasting out four shots that rip through the
soldiers. In a few moments, the entire passageway blazes
with laser fire. Laser bolts ricochet in wild random pat-
terns, creating small explosions and finally a small hole in
the wall, which sucks debris and stormtroopers into space,
until finally it is plugged by a large supply canister. Artoo and Threepio are plummeted by loose equipment and de-
bris. Threepio attempts to cover his head. Artoo pulls a
grate off the vent system and starts to enter the dark shaft.
Threepio clings to a side rail for dear life as debris and
laser bolts fly past him. Artoo beeps to his terrified com-
panion. THREEPIO
No more adventures! I'm not
going in there. No! Never! Artoo disappears down the ominous shaft. He leaves his friend
with a few parting whistles. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Don't call me a mindless philosopher,
you overweight glob of grease! I
simply think you are going the wrong
way. Threepio peers into the gloom of the vent shaft.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Hello?!? Artoo?... 14. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - COCKPIT CORRIDOR
Stormtroopers scatter and run down an adjoining passageway;
others duck behind storage lockers. Multiple laser fire rips through several stormtroopers who
scream and stagger from the smoke, holding shattered arms
and faces. Deak and two Aquillian rangers back into a
sealed corridor at the far end of the passageway. Deak's
gun jams, and the two rangers are cut down behind him. The
young Jedi ignites his glowing red laser sword and begins
swinging. Stormtroopers are cut down right and left, un-
til they flee the corridor in panic, firing wildly as they
stumble over canisters to escape. Suddenly several of the panic-stricken troopers who had fled
down a sub-hallway are back into the cockpit area, more
afraid of what's down the sub-hallway than the deadly Jedi's
blade. Troopers still fleeing the area crash into those re-
turning. TROOPER
The Sith Knight...Lord Vader is
coming. Go back. Go back! A new courage, or greater fear, seizes the troops and they
turn on Deak again and renew the attack. The troops scram-
ble away from the sub-hallway entrance, as something un-
speakably evil and terrifying approaches the cabin. 15. INT. REBEL STARFIGHTER - SUB-HALLWAY
The tall, gleaming Threepio rushes through several low, nar-
row corridors, yelling at Artoo, who races along as fast as
his stubby mechanical feet will carry him. THREEPIO
Wait! Wait a minute. I'm coming.
...Would you mind telling me where
you are off to? Artoo throws a short beep over his shoulder.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Leaving?! Leaving where? Don't
be ridiculous, that's desertion!
I order you to stop. Did you
hear me? Stop! Artoo continues on, countering with a frenzy of electronic
whistles and twangs.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
What new prime directive? Why
didn't I receive it?
What's so important that I'm
not to be trusted? I don't
believe you. I think you're
rattled. Artoo stops before the small hatch of an emergency lifepod.
He snaps the seal on the main latch and a red warning light
begins to flash. The stubby, dwarf-robot works his way
into the cramped four-man pod. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Hey! What are you doing? You
can't use that!...It's restricted.
You're not permitted in there;
you'll be de-activated for sure.
The situation is not that des-
perate! Now come out of there
before someone sees you. A new explosion, this time very close, sends dust and debris
through the narrow sub-hallway. Flames lick at the two ro-
bots. After a flurry of electronic swearing from Artoo, the
lanky bronze Threepio jumps into the lifepod. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
I think I'm going to regret this;
but my prime directive IS preser-
vation. The safety door snaps shut, and with the thunder of explod-
ing latches, the tiny lifepod ejects from the disabled star-
fighter. 16. INT. IMPERIAL STARDESTROYER - COCKPIT
On the main viewscreen, the lifepod carrying the two terri-
fied robots speeds away from the stricken rebel spacecraft. CHIEF PILOT
There goes another one. Look. CAPTAIN
Hold your fire. No lifeforms.
It must have short-circuited. The captain gets a message on his headset.
CAPTAIN (CONT'D)
Yes...Yes...He's on his way
down now...No. Good, excellent.
I'll relay it.
(he turns to
the pilots)
The ship is ours! The pilots cheer and an excited murmur rushes throughout
the ship. 17. EXT. SKY OVER UTAPAU - LIFEPOD
The reddish-yellow mass of Utapau seems to engulf the tiny
lifepod containing the two robots. The grouping of star-
destroyers grows smaller as the pod descends toward the
planet. THREEPIO
That's funny, the damage
doesn't look as bad from out
here. Are you sure this thing
is safe? 18. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - COCKPIT CORRIDOR
Deak Starkiller cuts down several troops who make a fren-
zied, suicidal charge with laser swords. TROOPS
The Bogan! The Bogan! They are no match for the incredibly agile young Jedi. For
an eerie moment, all is deathly quiet as a huge darker figure
appears in the sub-hallway. The remaining stormtroopers bow
low toward the doorway. An awesome, seven-foot BLACK KNIGHT
OF THE SITH makes his way into the blinding light of the cock-
pit area. This is LORD DARTH VADER, right hand to the MASTER
OF THE SITH. His sinister face is partially obscured by his
flowing black robes and grotesque breath mask, which are in
sharp contrast to the fascist white armored suits of the
Imperial stormtroopers. The troops instinctively back away
from the imposing warrior. Deak Starkiller stands firm; a new look of resolve sweeps
across his tired face. The smoky room is deathly quiet, ex-
cept for the occasional snapping and popping of burning
electrical circuits in the cockpit's sophisticated control
panel. As the Black Knight enters the corridor, the few surviving
troopers scramble into the sub-hallway. Lord Vader speaks
in an oddly filtered voice through his complex breathing
mask. VADER
At last we meet! DEAK
With so much commotion, I
expected your master, not
merely a servant. Vader is angered by this remark. Taking a deep breath, he
raises his arms and every object that isn't bolted down is
picked up by an invisible force and hurled at the young
Jedi. When the objects reach about two feet of Deak, they
are deflected by an invisible shield which surrounds him. DEAK (CONT'D)
The Bogan is strong with you;
but not nearly strong enough.
I'm afraid you'll have to use
your weapon, if you're able! VADER
I am Lord Darth Vader, first
Knight of the Sith, and right
hand to His Eminence Prince
Espaa Valorum, the Master of
the Bogan. You will not mock
me, or my Master; for the Ashla
is weak, and the FORCE OF OTHERS
cannot save you now... The fearsome dark knight ignites his laser sword and takes
a defensive stance. The two galactic warriors stand per-
fectly still for a few moments, sizing each other up and
waiting for the right moment. Deak seems to be under in-
creasing pressure and strain, as if an invisible weight
were being placed upon him. He shakes his head and blink-
ing, tries to clear his eyes. VADER (CONT'D)
Your powers are weak... Deak makes a sudden lunge at the huge warrior but is checked
by a lightning movement of the SITH. A second masterful
slash-stroke by Deak is again blocked by his evil opponent. They stand motionless for a few moments, with laser swords
locked in mid-air, creating a low buzzing sound. Another
of the Jedi's blows is blocked, then countered. Deak stum-
bles back against a wall. Slowly Deak is forced to his
knees as all his energy is drained from his being. Finally,
he collapses in a heap. The sinister knight lets out a
horrible, shrieking laugh, as stormtroopers rush in with
restraining poles, followed by a braided and flashy Imperial
commander. Deak's arms and legs are pinned to the wall.
He struggles with his bonds. COMMANDER
So, we got him. Your para-
force is strong indeed. The
Emperor will be pleased. Why,
he's just a boy! An Imperial officer takes a gold medallion from around the
young Jedi's neck. OFFICER
The Starkiller! A murmur of astonishment races throughout the troops.
COMMANDER
Impossible! He would have to
be over three hundred years old.
How could this Jedi possibly be
the Starkiller? The great Black Knight studies the golden crest, and then
stares into the eyes of the fuming Jedi. Vader has a visi-
ble dislike of the commander. VADER
This is another of his sons. COMMANDER
Your master said he'd killed them
all...And why is he wearing his
father's crest? VADER
His father must be dead. The
Starkiller would never give this
up if he were alive...It possesses
great power. This boy must be
the last... COMMANDER
"The son of the suns!" The
last of the Starkiller line,
whom the seer's have said
would bring down the Empire. VADER
It appears we have altered
destiny. COMMANDER
(to an aid)
Send word to the Emperor.
We've captured their "Savior".
The rebellion is broken. The
Starkiller is dead. Let the
attack of Ogana Major begin... The Black Knight takes a restraining pole from one of the
guards and brutally jabs the young Jedi in the chest. Deak
squirms in pain but does not cry out. He is struck again.
An officer approaches the commander. OFFICER
Why would he chance running
the blockade to come out here
in the middle of nowhere.
There is little on this planet... COMMANDER
An interesting question. Send
a platoon of "Tuskens" to the
planet surface and have them
report anything unusual. Maybe
he has friends we should know
about...
(turning pointedly
to Vader)
or perhaps another brother... Vader gives the commander an angry stare and suddenly it
appears as if the commander can't catch his breath. The
commander turns and rushes out of the cabin in great dis-
tress. Vader punches Deak one last time. VADER
You will come to know such suf-
fering as only the Master of the
Bogan Force can provide. From
you he will learn many secrets... Vader throws Deak's head back painfully hard against the
wall. VADER (CONT'D)
(to the guards)
Bind him, and take him to my
ship.
(to Deak)
There is no one to save you now. His frightening laugh rings throughout the starship.
19. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA
JUNDLAND, or "No Man's Land" where the rugged desert mesas
meet the foreboding dune sea. The two helpless astro-robots
kick up clouds of dust as they leave the lifepod, and clum-
sily work their way across the desert coastline. The stubby
Artoo struggles desperately to keep up with the long-legged
Threepio. Suddenly, Artoo makes a sharp right turn, and
starts off in the direction of the rocky desert mesas.
Threepio stops and yells at him. THREEPIO
Where do you think you're going?!? A stream of electronic noises pour forth from the small ro-
bot. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
...to find Owen Lars?!? What's
that?!? Just because the boss
was looking for his brother
doesn't mean WE have to look for
him! That WAS the prime direc-
tive, but not anymore...Besides,
why go that way? It's so rocky.
Why not go this way? It would
be much easier. How do you KNOW
Owen Lars is that way? Artoo continues his electronic babbling.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Don't get technical with me. I
think you're going the wrong way.
I've had just about enough of you!
You pragmatic, nearsighted scrap
pile.
I don't believe this "Angel Blue"
even exits, but you just go that
way. You'll be malfunctioning
within a day. He picks up the tiny robot and tosses him several feet into
a large sand dune. Threepio starts off in the direction
of the dune sea. Artoo struggles to his three, stubby feet
and shakes a metallic claw arm at his disappearing ex-partner. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
(over his shoulder)
...And don't let me catch you
following me begging for help --
because you won t get it! Artoo counters with a few short whistles.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Don't call ME a traitor. My
loyalty is impeccable!...You
emotion-brained intellectual... Artoo's reply is a rather rude sound. He turns and trudges
off in the opposite direction. 20. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - DUNE SEA
Threepio, hot and tired, struggles up over the ridge of a
dune, only to find more dunes, which seem to go on for end-
less miles. He looks back in the direction of the now dis-
tant rock mesas. THREEPIO
You little malfunctioning twerp.
This is all your fault. You
tricked me into going this way,
but you'll do no better. He sits in a huff of anger and frustration, knocking the
sand from his joints. His plight seems hopeless, when a
glint of reflected light in the distance reveals an object
speeding toward him. The bronze android waves frantically
and yells at the approaching transport. 21. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - ROCK MESA
The little Artoo stumbles over several boulders as he strug-
gles to reach the crest of a rocky mesa. He reaches the top and scans the foreboding desert valley
below. Far in the distance, shining in the twin suns like
an inviting oasis, stands the settlement of ANCHORHEAD.
The mechanical runt carries on an electronic conversation
with himself as he searches the rugged ground for something.
He picks up a large stone in his powerful claw hand, then
discards it. He finds another stone that he is apparently
satisfied with, carries it to the edge of the butte, and
tosses it over. The stone slams down the steep side of the
mesa, kicking up dust and creating a small avalanche. He
makes some quick calculations, then starts off down the
treacherous slope. 22. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - ROCK CANYON
The gargantuan rock formations are shrouded in a strange
mist, and the ominous sounds of unearthly creatures fill
the air. Artoo moves cautiously through the creepy rock
canyon, inadvertently making a loud clicking noise as he
goes. He hears a distant, hard metallic sound and stops
for a moment. He hears nothing. He sees nothing moving.
Convinced he is alone, he continues on his way. In the distance, a pebble tumbles down the steep canyon wall
and a small dark figure darts into the shadows. A little
further up the canyon, a slight flicker of light reveals a
pair of eyes in the dark recesses, only a few feet from the
narrow path. The unsuspecting robot waddles along the rugged trail un-
til suddenly, out of nowhere, a powerful magnetic ray shoots
out of the rocks and engulfs him in an eerie glow. He
manages one short electronic squeak before he topples over
onto his back. His bright computer lights flicker off,
then on, then off again. Out of the rocks scurry three
MEN, no taller than Artoo. They holster strange and com-
plex weapons as they cautiously approach the robot. They
wear grubby cloaks, and their faces are shrouded so that
only their yellow eyes can be seen. They hiss and make
odd guttural sounds as they heave the heavy robot to their
shoulders, and carry him off down the trail. The vile little
creatures grunt and groan as they struggle with their weighty
prize. They smell horribly, attracting small insects to
the dark areas where their mouths and nostrils should be. 23. EXT. ROCK CANYON - SANDCRAWLER
Eight dwarfs, or JAWAS, as they're sometimes called, carry
Artoo out of the canyon to a huge sandcrawler -- a tank-
like vehicle the size of a two-story house. They place the robot in a small bin on one side of the
crawler, and a mechanical arm promptly lifts the bin, dump-
ing the unconscious Artoo into the back of the giant trac-
tor. The filthy little Jawas scurry like rats up small
ladders and enter the main cabin of the behemoth transport.
Several windows light up in the cockpit area toward the
front of the crawler followed by the loud scream of power-
ful engines. The enormous sandcrawler turns and lumbers
off toward the magnificent twin suns, now slowly setting
over a distant mountain range. 24. INT. SANDCRAWLER - HOLD AREA
It is dim and dank inside the hold area of the sandcrawler.
Artoo lies on a pile of metal scrap, lifepods, rocket parts,
and the limbs and dismembered parts of robots. Artoo's
computer lights slowly begin to glow, then they blink on
full power. He makes a few electronic sounds to himself as
he tries to figure out what happened, and where he is. He
stumbles around on the scrap heap until he thinks to turn
on the small floodlight on his forehead. The narrow beam swings across the rubble and stops on the
half-buried claw arm of another robot. Artoo moves over
to the buried robot and calls to it, but gets no response.
He pulls on the arm but it won't budge. Finally he gives
it a good tug and it breaks loose, sending him head over
heels. He sits dazed, holding the severed forearm of a
power robot, then lets out a terrifying electronic shriek.
The little robot scans the rest of the huge chamber with
his headlights and sees a series of grotesquely twisted and
maimed astro robots. The narrow beam comes to rest on a
battered, but otherwise whole "common-labor" robot. The
"laborer" makes a move to cover his giant electronic eye,
which is extended on a long tube from his box-like body.
Little Artoo jumps back in fright. LABORER
Shut off that light! Artoo is still shaken, but manages a short apology and then
shuts off his light. The laborer robot is barely visible. LABORER (CONT'D)
Is there no peace!? This is
MY chamber, go find yourself
another. Go on...go on! Get
out! Artoo stumbles off toward what appears to be a door at the
end of the chamber. He enters a large room with a very low ceiling (about four
feet high). In the middle of the scrap heap sit a dozen
or so robots of various shapes and sizes. Some are engaged
in electronic conversation, while others simply mill about.
In the middle of the group sits a strange, little robot with
a large worklight for a head, which illuminates the odd
assemblage of mechanical slaves. A blue "astroconstruction"
robot -- somewhat similar to Artoo, only a bit fatter -
approaches the newcomer and beeps an electronic greeting.
The two stubby robots exchange electronic analysis of the
situation as they waddle toward the group. A voice of rec-
ognition calls out from the gloom. THREEPIO
Artoo! Artoo Detoo! It's you! A battered and slightly worse-for-wear Threepio scrambles
up to Artoo on his hands and knees (remember the four foot
ceiling) and embraces him. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
...they've caught you, too. I'm
afraid we're doomed! We're
doomed! The blue robot continues on back to the group as the two
old companions huddle in a hollow of scrap metal. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
We've landed on one of the
OUTLAND DARK PLANETS! There is
no hope for us now. These Jawa's
aren't traders, they're metalmen.
They'll melt us down. I'm not
useful like you, they'll scrap me
for sure. Artoo makes a short electronic reply.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
You're right. I should not have
ignored your prime directive.
But it's a little late now...
Wait, we're stopping! 25. EXT. WASTELAND - NIGHT
The monstrous sandcrawler pulls up to a large outcropping
of rocks in the trail and grinds to a rumbling stop. Several Jawa's scramble out of the huge vehicle to inspect
the boulders blocking the trail. An argument erupts between
one Jawa, in a red habit, and the other hooded dwarfs. He
yells something at the others, then walks off to the side
of the trail. The rest of the little creatures climb back
into the giant tank. The crawler starts with a low hummmmm,
slowly moving forward until a loud scraping noise screams
from beneath the chassis. The red-cloaked dwarf climbs on-
to a nearby rock and yells at the others to stop. They ig-
nore him. 26. INT. SANDCRAWLER - HOLD AREA
The scraping sound is haunting as well as deafening. The
entire chamber trembles, creating quite a commotion among
the mechanical men. At the far end of the long chamber, a
bright light suddenly appears, followed by a cacophony of
electronic shouts and yells. The "common labor" robot runs
past the confused Artoo and Threepio. LABORER
We're free! We're free! Amidst the confusion of the fleeing robots, Artoo and Threepio
carefully make their way toward a break in the side of the
crawler. Several Jawas appear at the opening with pistols,
but before they can fire, they are knocked over and trampled
by the fleeing mechanical men. 27. EXT. WASTELAND - NIGHT
The sound of yelling Jawas and screaming robots fades in
the distance as Artoo and Threepio scramble up a narrow ra-
vine away from the sandcrawler. They duck into a tiny crev-
ice in the rock to avoid several fleeing robots, followed
by a dozen armed Jawas. After a few moments they peer out,
and seeing that the way is clear, rush off down the winding
path. DISSOLVE TO:
28. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT
A small settlement, consisting of a few run-down blockhouse-
type buildings, rests against one of the huge rock mesas.
The two robots study the sleepy little camp from a bluff
some distance away. THREEPIO
I don't like it.
What if there are more Jawa-
scavengers down there? The runt-like Artoo starts off down the side of the rocky
bluff. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Wait a minute! It's too
dangerous. We need a plan... Threepio chases his little partner down the slope.
29. EXT. ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT - MAIN STREET
The dozen or so buildings are bleached white by the two
Utapau suns. A harsh and dusty wind blows through the empty
streets of the tiny settlement. A rather frightened Threepio
follows his little companion down the foreboding street to-
ward a low concrete structure that is all but covered by the
desert sands. The rusted hulk of a powerful "landspeeder"
(an auto-like transport which travels a few feet above the
ground on a magnetic field) lies half-buried to one side of
the building. The two robots cautiously approach the dilapi-
dated power station. THREEPIO
I don't like this... It is quiet, but for the continual wind. A dismantled speeder
rests in the repair bay of the gas station-like building.
There is a sharp dripping sound coming from the speeder. It
appears that no one is around. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Greetings!...Greetings. Is
anyone home?
(to Artoo)
I think you're overheated.
There is no one here... Out of the gloom of the office behind them, a voice cuts
through the silence: VOICE (MECHANIC)
What can I do you for? The robots turn around with a start. A short, wizened old
MECHANIC of sixty or seventy stands before them. MECHANIC (CONT'D)
Who are you with? THREEPIO
Greetings, sir. I'm See Threepio,
Human-Cyborg relations. This is
my counterpart, Artoo Detoo. Your
kindness would be greatly appre-
ciated... The old mechanic is a bit suspicious. An evil look fills
his eye. He rubs his grimy, withered hand over Threepio's
smooth metal shoulder. MECHANIC
You're in very good shape for
these parts...Where is your
master? You do have a master,
don't you? Artoo beeps a few signals to his bronze friend. The old
mechanic begins to fiddle with the wrench he is holding,
in the most unsettling way. Threepio becomes a bit nervous. THREEPIO
I am looking for one Owen Lars.
We believe him to be of this
settlement. Do you know where
we might find him? The mechanic starts dragging a heavy power-pack toward the
station. MECHANIC
Lars! I should have known...He
should know better than to let
you travel alone. He has a place
about three measures out of town.
Due north, you can't miss it. It's
the only place out there... Artoo helps the old man with the heavy power pack.
THREEPIO
Your kindness is greatly appreciated. MECHANIC
Any time I can help Lars, I am at
his service. You tell him that.
Be careful going out there,
this ain't good country for
you two to be running loose
in. THREEPIO
Yes sir, we appreciate your
concern. The two robots start down the empty street heading north,
leaving the old mechanic scratching his head. The old man
passes a sinister-looking, black Imperial speeder half
hidden behind a generator as he returns to his gloomy of-
fice. 30. INT. POWER STATION OFFICE - ANCHORHEAD SETTLEMENT
In the shadows of the dingy little office sits a large, burly
Imperial "Tusken". His reddish eyes are sunken in a larger
than normal, dust-covered face. He sits up in his chair. MECHANIC
Now there's something "out of
the ordinary" for you. I wonder
what they want with Lars? The gray Tusken thinks about this for a moment.
TUSKEN
I'd better make a report. 31. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - WASTELAND - HOMESTEAD VALLEY
Several concrete buildings squat in the middle of a desolate
valley. Threepio hurries after his determined companion as
they near the low gray structures. THREEPIO
...I don't care; he STILL could
have offered us transport. How
much further do you suppose.
I've got to rest, before I fall
apart. My joints are almost fro-
zen. What a forsaken place this
is. We seem to be made to suffer,
it's our lot in life... 32. EXT. LARS HOMESTEAD - COURTYARD
Artoo and Threepio enter the main courtyard of the Lars
Homestead and find themselves standing in a sparse but spark-
ling oasis, with low concrete walls and great turrets spill-
ing over with foliage from rooftop gardens. They stop be-
fore an enormous shaded corridor. BIGGS AND WINDY STARKILLER,
twin boys a little over seven years old, run through the
long tile walkway to greet the robots. Yelling and laughing,
their tiny footsteps echo throughout the building. They are
quickly followed by OWEN LARS, a bearded, sturdy-burly man
in his early fifties and his plump-jolly wife, BERU. Their
beautiful sixteen-year-old daughter, LEIA, stands shyly at
the far end of the entry. The twins run around the robots,
jumping and screaming their excitement. The mechanical men
are somewhat befuddled by the dynamic duo, and attempt to
ignore them. LARS
Welcome. May we offer you
shelter? Are you lost, or do
you travel with someone? THREEPIO
Greetings. I am See Threepio,
Human-Cyborg relations. This
is my counterpart, Artoo Detoo.
We seek the dwelling of Owen
Lars. LARS
You have found it, my friends.
I am Owen Lars...
(to the riotous
twins)
Boys, slow down a little and
let them speak... THREEPIO
We have come for the one called
"Angel Blue". Owen and Beru are startled at the mention of "Angel Blue".
Leia approaches the group, and eyes the robots suspiciously;
she turns to her father. LEIA
Father, I think they're a trap,
sent by an evil Jawa trading lord,
or the dark master of the Bogan,
or maybe even the Emperor himself. LARS
Leia. LEIA
Yes, that's it. They've inter-
cepted transmission fragments
and are now searching the galaxy
for the source. They don't know
the origin, so they have sent
these... BERU
Leia, please! Let your father
handle this. LARS
Who speaks for you? From what
system do you hail? THREEPIO
Deak 331-27-27 of Ogana Major... Beru's concern at the mention of Deak cannot be contained.
BERU
What has happened? Where is
Deak? THREEPIO
Our master has been attacked
My counterpart brings his mes-
sage for the one called "Angel
Blue". LARS
Luke is in the southern ravine.
The boys will take you to him. The two boys let out a cheer and run off toward the distant
horizon. THREEPIO
Your kindness is greatly appre-
ciated. We thank you...
(turning to
the boys)
Wait! Slow down a bit. The mechanical duo lumber off after the disappearing twins.
33. EXT. DESERT RAVINE
Alone in a wind-swept canyon stands LUKE STARKILLER, a short,
chubby boy about eighteen years old. He seems frozen in
place, a humming laser sword held high over his head. The
twins stop on the ridge overlooking their brother and fall
silent. The robots soon take up position behind them. THREEPIO
Is that "Angel Blue"? Biggs turns and gestures to the tall bronze man to be quiet.
Suspended at eye level -- about ten feet in front of Luke --
a chrome baseball covered with antenna hovers slowly in a
wide arc. The ball floats to one side of the youth, then
to the other. Suddenly it makes a lightning swift lunge and
stops within a few feet of Luke's face. Luke doesn't move,
and the ball backs off. It slowly moves behind the boy,
then makes another quick lunge, this time emitting a blood-
red laser beam as it attacks. Luke sparks to life. With one amazingly swift move, he
turns and swings his laser sword, deflecting the beam, and
losing his balance, tumbles to the desert floor. The ball
shoots straight up in the air about twenty feet, then drops
like a rock firing a second laser bolt, which hits the youth
square on the seat of his pants. Luke lets out a painful
yell and attempts to scramble to his feet, but is hit several
more times before he manages to regain his balance and de-
flect the bolts. The ball ceases firing, and moves back to its original posi-
tion. Luke raises his hand signaling "enough for one day".
He wearily picks up his things, including the chrome ball,
then turns and waves to the small group on the ridge. The
twins run down to greet him. By the time the cumbersome
Artoo and Threepio make it down the slope, Biggs and Windy
are climbing all over their big brother. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
"Angel Blue"?... LUKE
"...the skywalker"... The two robots make a short bow before the youth.
THREEPIO
See Threepio, and my counterpart
Artoo Detoo. At your service, sir. LUKE
You have word of my brother.
What has happened to him? THREEPIO
I'm sorry, sir; but I am unable
to explain the absence of our
master. We only bring his mes-
sage... Artoo makes a few electronic beeps and whistles; then after
a little static, a small (two foot) 3-D hologram of Deak is
projected from the face of the robot. The image is a rain-
bow of color as it flickers and jiggles in the desert waste-
land. DEAK'S IMAGE
Whippersnapper, I didn't make
it...I'm sorry. The forces of
the Bogan have become strong
and deadly...I am lost. Father
is in grave danger. He needs
you and he needs the KIBER CRYSTAL.
You must find a way to get to
Ogana Major on your own. He is
waiting for you there. Be care-
ful, though. Ogana Major is
under siege by the Imperial
Legions of Alderaan. You must
hurry for the force of the Ashla
grows weak, and I don't know how
much longer father can hold out.
The enemy has constructed a power-
ful weapon to use against him.
Warn Uncle... An Aquillian officer enters the hologram and interrupts Deak.
There is a little static, then the transmission is cut short.
A grave concern sweeps over Luke as he contemplates the fate
of his brother. Biggs and Windy are puzzled. BIGGS
Who was that? LUKE
That was your brother Deak. I
wish you could see him in person,
he is so terrific...I'm afraid
you may never see him now. Run
to the house.
Tell Aunt Beru or Uncle Owen
I'm going to be awhile. Go
on now...Take them with you. The boys rush off with the robots in tow, leaving Luke sit-
ting silently alone. He picks up some small stones and be-
gins to toss them at a large boulder. A chip in the boulder
reveals a small shiny fossil. Luke spots it and goes over
to study it. He takes a small camera out of his bag and
photographs it, making some accompanying notations in a small
book. 34. INT. LARS HOMESTEAD - DINING AREA
Owen Lars and the three boys sit before a table covered with
steaming bowls of food. Biggs and Windy are eating between
giggles and horseplay. Luke has barely touched his dinner.
Leia enters from the kitchen with a flask filled with blue
milk. She sits near Luke. OWEN
Where's the thanta sauce?
(yelling into
the other room)
Honey, where's the thanta
sauce? Beru enters carrying a small pitcher. She gives Owen a
knowing smile as she slides into her place at the table. BERU
I never! I put it right here
in front so you'd see it. She hands him a dish, and he grunts an embarrassed reply.
BERU (CONT'D)
Luke, you've hardly touched
your dinner. Have some bum-bum
extract. It's very mild. OWEN
(to Luke)
The force of the Bogan is strong,
and if you don't feel you can
make it, you probably won't. LUKE
I've never even been past this
planet...and I never thought I'd
be going alone.
Suddenly I feel very small --
and well...desperate. OWEN
How I wish I had the counsel of
your father. Ever since your
mother died, we have fallen on
doubtful times... LUKE
Deak is in trouble. I should
be helping him... OWEN
If your brother is still alive,
they will have taken him to the
dungeons of ALDERAAN, at the
very heart of the Empire. No
one, not even your father in his
prime, could help him there. Biggs and Windy have finished eating and are getting restless.
BIGGS
May we play with the "droids"? BERU
Take your plates out first. The twins scamper into the kitchen with their dirty dishes.
OWEN
Your father is getting very old.
I fear he needs your help more
than your brother does, and much
more depends on him succeeding.
If he at last has asked for the
Kiber Crystal, his powers must
be very weak. It is a dangerous
thing to have loose in the galaxy
...and you need him, for you are
not yet with the FORCE OF OTHERS.
I have taught you the ways of a
skilled warrior, but I am not a
Jedi Bendu. The ways of the
spirit you must learn from your
father. LUKE
But my catalog on the ancients.
I haven't nearly completed it... OWEN
Luke, you're not a researcher,
or a philosopher. You're the
son of a Jedi. Your brothers
accepted their destiny with joy
and pride. Anyone would. Why
can't you? LUKE
I may be a good pilot, but I'm
not a warrior. No matter how
hard I try. It's just not in me. OWEN
I know, you'd rather carve a jud
stone, or work on your catalog of
the ancients...I've trained seven
of your father's sons and it's
clear that you are not the most
gifted in the disciplines -- not
in power or speed, at any rate... LUKE
Deak was the best; but that didn't
seem to be good enough... BERU
But you have the way about you...
and wisdom far beyond your years... OWEN
You must learn to use such strength
and wits as you have. Your father
has need of the Kiber Crystal. The
decision is yours. I cannot bear
this burden for you, my duty is to
the twins. But we must do something
soon. The enemy is moving, and we
are no longer safe here. Leia listens to the discussion with much interest. She
watches Luke with un-concealed admiration. BERU
Luke, if you do decide to go, re-
member Ogana Major is far across
the galaxy.
Without Deak to help you, the
way will be difficult, and
chances of your reaching your
father are slim. Don't try it
if you think you are going to
fail. The power of the Bogan
force has grown strong; but if
the Kiber Crystal were to fall
into the hands of the enemy, all
hope would be lost... OWEN
Somehow, you will have to manage
to find transport in MOS EISLEY,
and once you do, the way through
the Outland Systems will be dark
and dangerous. The wild things
there are queer and savage, un-
like anything you've experienced
here. Leia is unable to control her concern.
LEIA
Luke, you don't even know the "grip
of tython" or "the seven moves".
You can't... OWEN
Leia... Leia settles down, but she is clearly worried. There is a
long silence. Owen sits back in his chair, and lights up
his pipe. The twins can be heard playing with Artoo and
Threepio in the other room. The silence becomes uncomfort-
able. LUKE
I suppose I must go... Tears begin to roll down Leia's cheeks, and she rushes from
the room. Beru looks to Owen, who looks to Luke, who looks
embarrassed. BERU
The prayers of all of us go
with you. LUKE
The Empire's vast size and power
is its greatest weakness. I
think I can make it...But I would
rather help Deak trapped in the
heart of the Empire than face this
father I don't remember. Owen gets up from the table and gently pats Luke on the
shoulder. 35. EXT. LARS HOMESTEAD - GRAVE SITE - DUSK
Luke sits before a tall smooth stone planted on a burial
mound. He sits with his head bowed to his knees. Finally
he stands up and speaks to the stone. LUKE
Well, Mom. I guess this is my last
visit...I'm going to finally get
to meet him...I fear many Jedi have
fallen since your death, for the
Bogan force is now heavy among us.
Father asks for the Kiber Crystal
so there is little hope. I'm sure
the boys will stay safe with Uncle
Owen...I sure miss you... The twin suns of Utapau rest red on the horizon as Luke
leaves the grave site and walks the short distance to the
main house. 36. INT. LARS HOMESTEAD - MAIN LIVING AREA - DUSK
The main living area is a dim, cool room projecting a feel-
ing of time-worn comfort and security. Owen lovingly moves
his arm around Beru as they stand before a large window
watching the giant twin suns of Utapau slowly disappear be-
hind a distant dune range.
BERU
Aren't they beautiful? OWEN
"Always and never the same." BERU
Must we leave? OWEN
I think with Luke going, we'll
be safe here for awhile. We've
been the happiest here, haven't
we... BERU
Owen, he's not ready, is he?...
Why don't you stop him? What
was Deak thinking of to place
such an impossible task before
his brother... The door opens and Luke enters, collapsing in a large, over-
stuffed chair near a pot-belly thermal-heater which dominates
the room. A warm friendly glow radiates from a tiny portal
in front of the heater. Luke's gaze is fixed on the red em-
bers, but his eyes are lit as if by a greater fire from
within. Owen and Beru talk quietly in the background. She rests her
head on his shoulder as the last rays of sunlight stream
across the floor of the room. A playful Biggs and Windy
enter with Leia and stand in the doorway. The twins are
dressed in their night clothes. BIGGS
What's going on in here? Luke returns from his world of dark thoughts and smiles at
them. The twins rush up to Owen and Beru, give them a kiss,
then bounce over to Luke, and jump into his lap. BERU
Don't be too late now. Owen and Beru take Leia into the other room.
WINDY
Why are you going away? LUKE
Because our father needs me,
as he will need you someday. BIGGS
I thought our father was killed? LUKE
The time has come for me to
tell you of your heritage, as
Deak told it to me and as his
older brother Cliegg told it
to him. The boys settle down and listen attentively.
LUKE (CONT'D)
In another time, long before
the Empire, and before the
Republic had been formed, a
holy man called the Skywalker
became aware of a powerful
energy field which he believed
influenced the destiny of all
living creatures... BIGGS
The "FORCE OF OTHERS"! LUKE
Yes, and after much study, he
was able to know the force, and
it communicated with him. He
came to see things in a new way.
His "aura" and powers grew very
strong. The Skywalker brought a
new life to the people of his
system, and became one of the
founders of the Republic Galactica. WINDY
The "FORCE OF OTHERS" talked to
him!?! LUKE
In a manner different from the way
we talk. As you know, the "FORCE
OF OTHERS" has two halves: Ashla,
the good, and Bogan, the paraforce
or evil part. Fortunately, Skywalker
came to know the good half and was
able to resist the paraforce; but
he realized that if he taught others
the way of the Ashla, some, with
less strength, might come to know
Bogan, the dark side, and bring un-
thinkable suffering to the Universe.
For this reason, the Skywalker
entrusted the secret of THE
FORCE only to his twelve children,
and they in turn passed on the
knowledge only to their children,
who became known as the Jedi Bendu
of the Ashla: "the servants of
the force". For thousands of
years, they brought peace and
justice to the galaxy. At one
time there were several hundred
Jedi families, but now there are
only two or three. WINDY
What happened to them? LUKE
As the Republic spread throughout
the galaxy, encompassing over a
million worlds, the GREAT SENATE
grew to such overwhelming propor-
tions that it no longer responded
to the needs of its citizens.
After a series of assassinations
and elaborately rigged elections,
the Great Senate became secretly
controlled by the Power and Trans-
port guilds. When the Jedi dis-
covered the conspiracy and attempted
to purge the Senate, they were de-
nounced as traitors. Several Jedi
allowed themselves to be tried and
executed, but most of them fled
into the Outland systems and tried
to tell people of the conspiracy.
But the elders chose to remain behind,
and the Great Senate diverted them
by creating civil disorder. The
Senate secretly instigated race wars,
and aided anti-government terrorists.
They slowed down the system of jus-
tice, which caused the crime rate
to rise to the point where a totally
controlled and oppressive police
state was welcomed by the systems.
The Empire was born. The systems
were exploited by a new economic
policy which raised the cost of
power and transport to unbelievable
heights.
Many worlds were destroyed this
way. Many people starved... BIGGS
Why didn't the "FORCE OF OTHERS"
help the Jedi to put things right? LUKE
Because a terrible thing happened.
During one of his lessons a young
PADAWAN-JEDI, a boy named Darklighter,
came to know the evil half of the
force, and fell victim to the spell
of the dreaded Bogan. He ran away
from his instructor and taught the
evil ways of the Bogan Force to a
clan of Sith pirates, who then
spread untold misery throughout
the systems. They became the per-
sonal bodyguards of the Emperor.
The Jedi were hunted down by these
deadly Sith knights. With every
Jedi death, contact with the Ashla
grows weaker, and the force of the
Bogan grows more powerful. WINDY
Where are the Jedi now? LUKE
They're hidden; but many are still
fighting to free the systems from
the grip of the Empire. Our father
is a Jedi. He is called "The
Starkiller" and is said to be a
great and wise man, and tomorrow
I am on my way to join him and
learn the ways of the "FORCE OF
OTHERS". BIGGS
Can we go, too? LUKE
Not yet, Biggs my boy. There is
much you must learn from Uncle
Owen -- where it is safe. And
when you are ready, I will come
back for you...I promise. 37. EXT. LARS HOMESTEAD - COURTYARD - DAWN
Early morning breaks across the quiet little courtyard as
Owen and Luke lift supplies into the back of a low, bat-
tered, two-man landspeeder. Threepio lifts Artoo into a
tiny jump-seat, then climbs into the passenger compartment.
Beru, Leia, and the twins stand in the entryway, silently
watching. The storage hatch is slammed shut with a bang.
Owen unfastens his gun-belt and hands it to Luke. He slides
back a small latch on the belt buckle revealing a small
diamond-like crystal. Luke carefully examines it. LUKE
The Kiber Crystal! OWEN
The only one. A Jedi can use
it to intensify the Ashla force
a hundred fold; but, remember it
can also be used to intensify the
power of the Bogan...It must not
fall into the hands of the Sith...
They would do anything to have it. Luke stands looking at the Crystal for a few moments, then
snaps the buckle closed and puts on the belt. OWEN (CONT'D)
The enemy is everywhere, so stay
alert. If you keep due south, you
should make it in two days at the
most. I just hope you can sell this
bucket for enough to get you to the
Ogana System... For a few awkward moments, Luke stands looking at everyone
not really wanting to say goodbye. OWEN (CONT'D)
It's a good day to travel. The
FORCE OF OTHERS is surely with
you. We'll be moving on soon.
I will send word once we're
settled... Luke shakes his hand, and Owen gives him a big hug. The young
adventurer then goes to his Aunt Beru and gives her a kiss
and a hug. BERU
The spaceport at Mos Eisley is
not a decent place. Be careful
there. LUKE
I'll watch out, Aunt Beru.
Don't worry. He lovingly roughs up the twins, and starts to give Leia a
kiss, but thinks better of it and gives her a short polite
hug before retreating to the speeder. Leia is greatly dis-
appointed. OWEN
Wish your father well. BERU
May the FORCE OF OTHERS be
with you. Luke pops open the door of the speeder; but before he can
get in, Leia runs up and gives him a big kiss. Luke is sur-
prised and embarrassed. Beru and Owen smile, as Leia rushes
back into the house. Luke settles into the speeder and it
starts with a crack and loud whine. Everyone waves as the
speeder roars out of the courtyard, and into the desolate
Utapau wilderness. 38. EXT. LANDSPEEDER - TRAVELING
The sleek landspeeder glides effortlessly through the
treacherous rock canyons and out onto the awesome dune sea.
The vibrations of the speeder causes Artoo's outer shell to
rattle a rhythmic little tune. LUKE
How long were you with my
brother? THREEPIO
I had the pleasure of serving
Master Deak for over three years
...my counterpart was with him
a bit longer. Artoo chatters to his bronze interpreter.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
...Three years eight months.
Master Deak is a man above men.
You should be proud of him,
indeed you should, sir. I'm
only a "droid", and not much
more than an interpreter, and
not very good at poetry, if you
take my meaning -- not at making
it up anyway.
So I can't tell you what he's
really like. But a great man
he is! Strong...with great
skill...I hope he's not in
peril...what a dilemma! Some-
times the logic of human rela-
tions escapes me... Luke thinks about this for a few moments; then rather reluc-
tantly, almost afraid, he asks a second question. LUKE
Have you ever met my father? THREEPIO
No, I'm afraid not, sir. I
couldn't even tell you what he
looks like. He's an elusive one.
More of a myth than a man, if I
may say so, sir...But Master Deak
always spoke of him with great
respect... Luke seems a little disappointed with Threepio's answer.
39. EXT. DUNE SEA
The small speeder sits at the bottom of a huge sand dune.
Luke, with his extremely long-barreled laser rifle slung
over his shoulder, makes his way to the top of the ridge.
He studies the landscape with his electro-binoculars, until
he spots a small dust twister speeding toward them. He
quickly slides back down the dune to where Threepio is lift-
ing Artoo out of the speeder. The stubby little robot
struts around stretching his joints between irritated whis-
tles. LUKE
You were right, there is some-
thing following us. We'd better
move on. THREEPIO
Who do you suppose it is? Do you
think they're looking for us? LUKE
It's probably nothing. A "jom-
trader" most likely; but I have
a strange feeling about it. DISSOLVE TO:
40. EXT. PLANET UTAPAU - MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT
The speeder stops on a bluff overlooking the spaceport at
MOS EISLEY. It is a haphazard array of low gray concrete
structures and semi-domes. A harsh gale blows across the
bleak canyon floor and batters Luke as he lowers his sand
goggles and walks to the edge of the craggy bluff. A
leaden sky presses down on the large settlement, which seems
to be losing a never-ending battle against the shifting
sands. Something in the distance catches his eye, and he
instinctively grabs his electrobinoculars. He follows a
sinister-black "tusken" landspeeder as it enters the space-
port. Luke returns to his speeder, and his two mechanical
companions. LUKE
Well, whoever was following us
has gone into Mos Eisley...they
weren't "jom traders", that's
for sure...It was a speeder of
the Imperial starforce... 41. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - SLUM DWELLINGS
Luke stops the speeder before the remains of a burnt-out
spaceship the size of a large jet fighter. Two scruffy
figures huddle around a small thermal-heater, attempting
to use the spacecraft as shelter against the howling winds.
One of the rag-tag figures gets up and ventures over to
Luke in the speeder. When the shabby beggar stands up, it
is obvious from his pint size that he is a Jawa. Artoo
lets out a string of electronic beeps and whistles. THREEPIO
I begging your pardon, sir, but
watch out for this guy. The wretched little creature moves close to the speeder and
begins to run his gnarled little hand across it. LUKE
Where might I find passage on a
starship? JAWA
Nice zoom zoom. LUKE
Where are the men who fly in the
ships? Saliva dribbles from the dark hole where the Jawa's face
should be and drops, splat, on the hood of the speeder. JAWA
Drink place. Drink place down
the street. Nice zoom zoom. The Jawa continues to fondle the speeder as Luke starts the
magno-system. The filthy little creature reluctantly jumps
away as the speeder takes off and glides down the dismal
spaceport street. 42. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - CANTINA
The speeder pulls up in front of a run-down, blockhouse can-
tina on the outskirts of the spaceport. Various strange
forms of transport, including several unusual beasts of bur-
den, are parked outside the bar. THREEPIO
I can't abide those Jawas. Dis-
gusting creatures. LUKE
Take care in here. I don't like
the looks of this place. As the trio exit the speeder, an ancient human shrouded in
gray robes, sitting near the entrance to the cantina calls
out to them. The man appears to be a blind beggar. SEER
Come to me and the truth shall
be known. Luke reluctantly approaches the old man.
SEER (CONT'D)
I've seen what is to be. I can
tell you what you need to know... Luke drops several coins in the man's open palm.
LUKE
Can you tell me where I might find
transport to Ogana Major? SEER
Your fate is clouded...but the will
of the force has set your path. The
man you seek you'll find inside;
the one who needs you, you'll find
in time.
Fear not, for the "son of the
suns" will free us all. Take
care for the Bogan is heavy
upon this system. May the
FORCE OF OTHERS be with you. Luke is somewhat puzzled by the old man's dialogue.
THREEPIO
A profoundly illogical answer.
He's not completely with us, if
you take my meaning. 43. INT. SPACEPORT CANTINA
The young adventurer and his two mechanical servants enter
the smoke-filled cantina. The murky, moldy den is filled
with a startling array of weird and exotic alien creatures
and monsters, laughing at the long metallic bar. At first,
the sight is horrifying. One-eyed, thousand-eyed, slimy,
furry, scaly tentacles and claws huddle over drinks. Luke
moves to an empty spot at the bar near a group of repulsive
but human Corellian pirates. A huge, rough-looking BAR-
TENDER comes over to Luke and the robots. BARTENDER
We don't serve "their kind" in
here. Luke, still recovering from the shock of seeing so many out-
landish creatures in one room, doesn't quite catch the bar-
tender's drift. LUKE
What? BARTENDER
Your "Droids" will have to wait
outside. We don't serve 'em
here. Luke notices that several of the creatures along the bar are
giving them a very unfriendly glare. LUKE
Yes, of course, I'm so sorry.
(he turns to
Threepio)
You'd better stay with the
speeder.
We don't want any trouble...
I'll bring you something... THREEPIO
I must say, I agree, sir. Threepio and his stubby partner go outside, and most of the
creatures at the bar go back to their drinks. Luke is stand-
ing next to HAN SOLO, a young Corellian pirate only a few
years older than himself. He is a burly-bearded but ruggedly
handsome boy dressed in a gaudy array of flamboyant apparel. LUKE
Do you know of any ship heading
toward the
Ogana Systems? Han Solo eyes him suspiciously.
HAN
What's your business, little one? Han turns to his companion, CHEWBACCA, an eight foot tall,
savage-looking creature resembling a huge gray bush-baby
monkey with fierce "baboon"-like fangs. His large yellow
eyes dominate a fur-covered face and soften his otherwise
awesome appearance. Over his matted, furry body, he wears
two chrome bandoliers, a flak jacket painted in a bizarre
camouflage pattern, brown cloth shorts, and little else.
He is a two-hundred-year-old "WOOKIEE", and a sight to be-
hold. Han speaks to the Wookiee in his own language, which
is little more than a series of grunts. The young pirate
points to Luke several times during his conversation and
the creature suddenly lets out a horrifying laugh. Han
chuckles to himself and turns back to Luke. HAN (CONT'D)
What would you be doing going
on such a trip? Ogana Major
is part of the Alliance...You
wouldn't be one of those rebels,
would yuh, little one? He can't control his laughter, and Chewbacca starts in again,
also. Luke is getting a little worried. LUKE
I just want passage. Han puts his arm around Luke's shoulder and draws him near.
HAN
Listen, little one, why don't
you go on back to the farm or
wherever you come from. Then
maybe in a few years you'll
grow up to become an important
starpilot, like me. He lets out a hearty laugh and turns back to the giant Wookiee.
Luke is afraid, but tries not to show it. He quietly sips
his drink, looking over the crowd for a more sympathetic ear,
or whatever. A large multiple-eyed creature on the other side
of Luke gives him a rather rough shove. CREATURE
Negola dughi wooldugger?!? The hideous freak is obviously drunk. Luke tries to ignore
the creatures and turns back to his drink. A short grubby
HUMAN and an even smaller rodent-like beast join the belli-
gerent monstrosity. HUMAN
He doesn't like you. LUKE
I'm sorry. HUMAN
I don't like you either. The big creature is getting agitated, and yells some unin-
telligible gibberish at the now rather nervous young Jedi. HUMAN (CONT'D)
Don't insult us. You just watch
yourself. We're wanted men. I
have the death sentence on twelve
systems. LUKE
I'11 be careful then. HUMAN
You'll be dead. The rodent lets out a loud grunt and everything at the bar
moves away. Luke tries to remain cool, but it isn't easy. His three adversaries ready their weapons. Han Solo, who
has been watching the chain of events, begins to feel sorry
for the young tenderfoot and intervenes. HAN
This little one isn't worth
the effort. Besides, he's
leaving. Come, let me buy
you something. A powerful blow from the unpleasant creature sends the young
Corellian pirate sailing across the room, crashing through
tables and breaking a large jug filled with a foul-looking
liquid. With a blood-curdling shriek, the monster draws a
wicked chrome laser pistol from his belt. The bartender
panics! BARTENDER
No blasters!! No blaster!
Please! Little Luke's laser sword sparks to life, and in a flash,
an arm lies on the floor. The rodent is cut in two, and the
giant, multiple-eyed creature lies doubled, cut from chin
to groin. Luke shaking, and somewhat amazed at his reflex
powers, replaces his sword in its sheath. The entire fight
has lasted only a matter of seconds. The cantina goes back
to normal, although Luke is now given a respectable amount
of room at the bar. Han, rubbing his bruised head, approaches
the "little one" with new awe. The bartender drags the
bodies out. HAN
I could have saved myself a good
bump if I had known your skill... LUKE
I thank you for trying to help. HAN
They're lucky they caught me off
guard. I would have taken more
time with them. It's the Bogan
force. We've been feeling it for
several days. It drives those
MONDUTHS wild...I'm Han Solo.
This is my first-mate Chewbacca. Luke is still giddy, and downs a fresh drink.
HAN (CONT'D)
So you're looking for transport
to Ogana...I might be able to
help, but it's very far -- the
cost would be great. LUKE
I can pay. You know of a ship
going in that direction? HAN
In these times, one cannot be
too careful, you understand --
going into a rebel zone and all
-- but come to my place. We'll
have some food and talk this over. Luke is filled with grateful enthusiasm at his new-found
"friends" and ignores their sinister grins. 44. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - ALLEYWAY
Han, Chewbacca, Luke and the robots walk along a narrow slum
alleyway crowded with darkly-clad creatures hawking exotic
goods in dingy little stalls. Men and monsters crouch in
waste-filled doorways whispering and hiding from the chill-
ing winds. They enter a small doorway in a decaying stone
building at the far end of the alley. 45. INT. SLUM DWELLING - LIVING AREA
The seedy slum dwelling is dark and dingy. Han is greeted
by a female "Boma" named OEETA. The Boma is a fur-covered
creature about five feet high and looks like a cross between
a brown bear and a guinea pig. It is obvious from her figure
that she is a female. Han embraces Oeeta and gives her a
big kiss, then checks out the stew-like mess boiling away
on a dilapidated fusion-burner in the kitchen area. HAN
Good, good...We're hungry.
Bring my friends some of this. She answers in a strange baboon-like call and starts dish-
ing up the slop. Threepio and Artoo cautiously dust off a
bench in the kitchen and sit down. Luke and Chewbacca join
Han at a large table in the center of the main room. HAN (CONT'D)
Now tell me of your adventures.
What is on Ogana Major that draws
you there? LUKE
I am looking to join my father.
I have been living with my uncle,
beyond the Great Dune sea. He
has a small moisture ranch --
not much of an adventure, I'm
afraid. HAN
Ahh, no farmer could cut down
three brigands as you did. But,
as you wish. In time you will
grow to trust me... Oeeta brings them each a steaming bowl of "Boma-mush", and
a large mug of some heavy brew. Chewbacca and Han dig in
with great vigor, but Luke is a little hesitant. HAN (CONT'D)
Eat up, don't let its smell
bother you...Now, for the right
sum, I could take you to Ogana
Major myself. But it would be a
special charter. I have no other
business in that area, and the way
is a little dangerous. LUKE
How much? HAN
An even million, I think. We will
have to somehow sneak past the
Imperial blockade. It won't be
easy. LUKE
A million! I haven't that much.
I hope to get one fifty for my
speeder...but that's all I have. HAN
Well, I doubt you'll find another
ship to take you. Most captains
rarely venture there. The civil
war makes it far too dangerous...
I was sure a man of your
abilities would be worth more.
What of your two "droids" --
you could get at least four or
five for them...even if you sold
them as scrap. Artoo and Threepio become suddenly attentive and listen
closely to the conversation in the next room. Artoo begins
to beep, but Threepio puts his bronze hand over his little
companion's mouth. Luke thinks about this for a moment. LUKE
No...I need them. What if I
were to pay you one fifty now,
and my father gave you the rest
on our arrival? He is an honor-
able man of great influence. I'm
sure he would make it worth your
while. The two robots breathe a sigh of relief. Han's waning in-
terest is renewed by the mention of "great influence". HAN
You mean a bonus maybe. Your
father must be a man of great
wealth? LUKE
I'm sure he would reward you. Han thinks about this for a few moments, then turns to
Chewbacca and seemingly explains the situation to him. The
Wookiee shrugs his shoulders as if to say "Why not?" HAN
We've got a deal then. Sell your
speeder and I'll meet you at dock-
ing port twenty-three. My ship
will be ready and waiting for you.
We should go right away, I think. 46. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - DOCKING PORT 23
Han and his lumbering first-mate Chewbacca hurry along be-
hind MONTROSS HOLDAACK, a large, portly man who walks with
a stiff, awkward gait. They move along a tall gantry over-
looking a long, complex spacecraft. HAN
But you're my friend, my best and
closest partner. Oxus will still
listen to you! He will, I tell
you, I know he will. I really have
a live one this time. I asked for
a million, and he didn't even flinch,
and the way he fights -- he must
belong to one of the royal families,
I'm just sure of it. This may be
worth two million, maybe three.
You've got to talk to Oxus...You've
just got to... MONTROSS
Like your information on the AKURIAN
spice shipment...After that botch,
if I WERE crazy enough to suggest
another one of your plots to him,
he'd have us both diced... HAN
But this is different. This is
our chance. Are we partners or
not? Are you going to dream away
the rest or your life, or are we
going to try for the big one? MONTROSS
The only way Oxus would go along is
if you killed him...I'm too old,
Han. I can't do it, you'll have to
find someone else. HAN
There's no time. What kind of talk
is this? Where's the old Montross
that single-handedly destroyed a
colony of Banthas and rescued me
from the very jaws of death??
Montross, the greatest science
officer in the galaxy, too old?! MONTROSS
You young fool! Montross suddenly ignites in a rage and swings his left
forearm down with a mighty blow across the metal rail of
the gantry. The old science officer's forearm cracks in
two, spewing forth wires, and many fine multi-colored elec-
tronic components. The artificial limb flops lifelessly to Montross Holdaack's
side. MONTROSS (CONT'D)
You know, there is nothing left
but my head and right arm...
I've lost too much, Han...I'm
dying...I'm dying this time...
I'm losing control. Han bows his head in sorrow and embarrassment for one of the
greatest warriors in the galaxy and a dear friend. HAN
Take it easy...I'm sorry. Don't
be upset. What am I going to do?
He's going to be here shortly
wanting to go to Ogana! I'll
just have to talk to Oxus myself.
I'll take care of everything.
We'll get you fixed up, once and
for all. 47. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - ENTRY BAY
The entry bay of the large starship is also the main lounge
area of the ship. Two gruff and grisly pirates are playing
a kind of dice game with thin little sticks. The larger
and mangiest of the two slavering hulks, JABBA THE HUTT
by name, throws his dice at Chewbacca. JABBA
I told you not to bring that
thing on board again...Where
have you been anyway...Captain
wants the conveyor system ex-
tended...and I notice you haven't
turned around those punch chips
yet. What are we keeping you
on board for anyway? Chewbacca slinks back outside the starship as Han helps the
still slightly crazed Montross aboard the craft. Han gen-
erally ignores Jabba's tirade. HAN
Where is everybody, anyway? JABBA
They took the shipment of "Covina"
to Gordon.
But the captain is still here,
so get to work or I'll snap you
myself. HAN
Where is he? JABBA
On the bridge, I think. I
wouldn't go looking for trouble,
though...He'll sting you good
if you bother him. The second pirate notices Montross's arm, as Han sets him
on a bench near the door. PIRATE
Montross fall apart again? JABBA
What's this ship coming to?
We've got a good-for-nothing
"cabin boy" and a disintegrating
science officer. 48. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT
The cockpit of the starship is crowded with a haphazard ar-
ray of computer switches and monitors. Dozing in one of
the two pilot chairs is CAPTAIN OXUS, a man of the grossest
dimensions. His scarred face is a grim testimonial to his
prowess as a pirate and a killer. The young Han Solo en-
ters the cabin and stands staring at the evil galactic
buccaneer -- the terror of the Outland territories -- so
peaceful, such an easy prey. Han doesn't know quite what
to do, so he starts to leave. Oxus opens one eye. He is
in a drunken stupor. OXUS
What have you been up to, boy??
You finished with the conveyor
system? Bring me some more
"Auraspice"! Han bows low before his master, then moves down the narrow
passageway to a small closet, where he takes out a cup of
silver powder and returns to Oxus. HAN
Your spice; sir...Ah, sir, may I... OXUS
You blasted, good-for-nothing.
Go fetch my tallock! And be
quick. Now get out of here! He takes a mighty swing at the boy, but his inebriated con-
dition causes the blow to ricochet off, and slam against a
locker panel. Han rushes out of the room. 49. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - HALLWAY
Han is angry with himself for not being able to tell the
captain about Luke. He kicks the door to a locker in dis-
gust. Suddenly an idea comes to him and he rushes back
down the hallway. 50. EXT. MOS EISLEY SPACEPORT - DOCKING PORT 23
Luke and the two robots approach the entry bay of the giant
starship, and are intercepted by the giant Wookiee, Chewbacca. LUKE
Greetings! For such a young
captain, your master has a
mighty ship. Will you store
our bags? Luke hands the huge funny creature his back-pack, but the
Wookiee doesn't take it. Instead, Chewbacca refuses to let
them pass and carries on about something in his harsh na-
tive tongue. Luke doesn't understand. LUKE (CONT'D)
I don't get it?? Are we to wait
here, or what? Threepio, what's
he talking about? The gleaming bronze robot jabbers away in strange animal
sounds to the towering monster. They carry on an animated
argument, until it appears Threepio gets in the last word. THREEPIO
Well, master Luke, sir. It ap-
pears we must wait out here for
the captain to ready the ship.
I told him we weren't accustomed
to waiting around on gantries;
and if you beg my pardon, sir,
for the price of this trip they
should have picked you up in an
environment capsule, complete
with dancing "Yonnas". 51. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - HALLWAY
Han and Montross are busy prying loose a control panel in
a forward corridor of the ship. The cover falls to the
floor with a loud clang, and the young cabin boy looks
around to see if anyone heard. Montross takes a small metal
bar and jams it between two circuits. Sparks, fly and a
small puff of smoke issues from the panel. He quickly re-
places the cover and Han heads back toward the captain's
bridge. 52. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT
The cockpit area of the starship is a cacophony of warning
alarms and flashing lights. The captain clumsily works at
the control console in a vain attempt to figure out what
is going on. Han enters carrying a long gray cloak. HAN
Your tallock, sir. What's wrong?? Oxus stumbles around in a drunken stupor.
OXUS
Something's fouled up on this
blasted board... HAN
The reactor's wild! It's way over
a thousand. We'd better get out. OXUS
That's impossible! I may be under
the influence, but the reactor
couldn't have gotten loose...Wait
a minute. A new shrill alarm begins to sound, as Han grabs the groggy
old pirate and drags him out of the cabin. 53. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - ENTRY BAY
Han and the lumbering pirate captain charge into the entry
bay, almost knocking down Jabba the Hutt. JABBA
What's going on? HAN
Sabotage! The reactor's have gone
wild. Get out. Get out...Wait, I
forgot about Montross... Jabba the Hutt and the other pirate stumble over each other,
racing for the exit. Little Artoo scoots out of the way
just as the two pirates rush past the group and into the
spacestation main building. They are quickly followed by
the wobbly captain. Luke watches the trio with puzzled
amazement as the blast door slides closed behind them.
Chewbacca gets a message on his belt com-link, and gestures
to Luke that they should enter the deserted starship. Luke
and the two robots reluctantly follow the giant Wookiee
into the entry bay. Chewbacca pushes a button, and the main
hatch slams shut. The alarms continue to ring. LUKE
Where's the captain? Threepio repeats the question in Wookieese and gets a short,
rather menacing answer from the creature, who points to the
high-backed seat of the lounge area. THREEPIO
He wants us to sit down, sir...
If we don't mind. The captain
will be with us shortly. The alarm signal is suddenly cut short.
54. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT
The one armed Montross sits in the pilot seat pushing but-
tons and switches. Han rushes in and sits in the co-pilot
seat. He is laughing. HAN
Alarms secure...ready for take-
off...let's get out of here be-
fore they figure out what happened. MONTROSS
Yes sir, captain. Montross laughs heartily as he pulls back on the throttle.
The ship shudders as it lifts off. 55. INT. DOCKING PORT 23 - MAIN BUILDING
Captain Oxus and Jabba the Hutt stand before a large window
overlooking the docking port. Oxus is furious, ranting and
raving. Jabba stands dumbfoundedly, with his mouth hanging
open. The ship quickly disappears into the vastness of the
night sky. 56. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Han sits back in the huge co-pilot's chair and puts his
feet up on the control console. HAN
Sometimes I amaze myself... He chuckles. The surface of Utapau slowly drifts out of
view of the cockpit windows and is replaced by a sparkling
carpet of stars. MONTROSS
Are you even a little worried
he might hunt you down? HAN
Well, Montross my friend, it's a
big universe. And after we cash
in on this young noble, we'll
head for Ophichi or one of the
other southern systems. He'll
be a long time coming there! MONTROSS
Sometimes you amaze me, also. They both laugh. Little Artoo appears momentarily in the
doorway, makes a few beeping remarks, then scurries away.
In a few moments, Luke appears at the doorway. LUKE
This is a terrific ship! How did
you ever come by it? Montross gives Han a sly smile, as Artoo appears timidly
behind his master. HAN
It's a long story...I suggest you
relax. We'll be going into a
Hyper-skip soon, and should reach
Ogana Major by 0300, two para-marks
from now. 57. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - SLEEP AREA
Han stands nervously waiting for Chewbacca, who is looking
through Luke's things as the young adventurer sleeps. The
huge furry creature is very quiet as he moves about the
cabin. He picks up Luke's gun belt containing the hidden
Kiber Crystal. He takes the belt and a pouch to his wait-
ing master, and quietly whispers to him. Han begins to
search the belt. HAN
He must have SOMETHING of value.
Are you sure you looked through
everything? His father had bet-
ter be loaded. He drops the belt and pouch in disgust.
58. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING IN SPACE
Han enters and flops down in the co-pilot's seat. Montross
is busy studying the solar system with the ship's scanner. HAN
We've been through everything
twice. He has nothing with him.
I guess we'll just have to wait
until we get to his father. Montross looks up from the scanner with a worried look.
MONTROSS
I've scanned almost all the way
to Ogana Major, and there is no
blockade! I don't get it. Do
you think we should continue? HAN
Sure, why not?...but carefully. 59. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
Luke, Chewbacca and the two robots sit around a lighted
table covered with many small metal figures. Each side of
the table has a small computer monitor embedded in it.
Chewbacca seems very pleased with himself as he rests his
lanky fur-covered arms over his head. Luke rests his chin
in his hands as he ponders a weighty problem on the board.
Finally the stubby Artoo reaches up and moves one of the
figures on the board. A sudden frown crosses Chewbacca's
face and he begins yelling some gibberish at Artoo. Threepio
intercedes on behalf of his small companion and begins to
argue with the huge Wookiee. LUKE
Let him have it...You're winning
anyway...It doesn't make any dif-
ference. THREEPIO
Yes sir, but it's the principle of
the thing. A small tone sounds and the com-link crackles to life.
HAN'S VOICE
Luke, could you come up here! LUKE
I'm on my way. 60. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING IN SPACE
The cockpit is alive with humming meters and softly buzz-
ing read-outs. Montross and Han are busy at the controls. MONTROSS
It checks out again. There is
no mistake about it. Luke enters; his boyish enthusiasm is working overtime.
LUKE
We must be just about there! Both Han and Montross are rather grim-faced.
HAN
We ARE there...Ogana Major has
been destroyed... LUKE
What! What are you saying? Luke moves close and begins to search the viewing monitors.
HAN
What's left of it is contaminated.
That's it there...look at those
radiation read-outs!...and the
blockade is gone. Now what's going
on? Luke sits down in a state of shock. He stares blankly at
the monitor read-outs. Han is very angry at this turn of
events. MONTROSS
I don't care how large the Imperial
fleet has become, it couldn't have
done this. Half the planet is torn
away. It would have taken a thousand
ships with a lot more fire power than
I've ever seen...very fascinating. HAN
Well, I don't like it. Where is
your father? LUKE
He must be dead...All this way and
he's probably dead... HAN
Who's going to pay us?? The young pirate captain grabs Luke and holds him high
against the cockpit wall. HAN (CONT'D)
I'm beginning not to like you! Luke clears his throat and snaps out of his depression.
LUKE
Deak! Deak would know...my brother. HAN
What? LUKE
My brother could help us. He would
know what to do. HAN
Could he pay us? LUKE
He might know what happened. He's
...ah...in a bit of a fix. I'm
sure he would be most grateful if
we helped him. Han puts the boy down and a scheme formulates in Luke's mind.
LUKE (CONT'D)
If my father is dead, then every-
thing is his...but it's no use. We
could never get to him...it's im-
possible. HAN
Nothing's impossible. Not for
me anyway. Tell me where he is
and we'll go there. LUKE
He's being held prisoner...You
couldn't help him...No one could,
not even a Jedi Bendu knight
could... HAN
I could. Where is he? LUKE
Alderaan. The word hits Han and Montross like a mad bantha; but Han
recovers nicely, and thinks about it for a moment. MONTROSS
Well, he's right, you can't go
there. HAN
Why not? The fact that no one
in their right mind would ever
try might make it easy...You're
sure your brother would make it
worth our while? LUKE
Beyond your wildest dreams... HAN
You have no fear of Alderaan? LUKE
As you said, the fact that no one
would venture there voluntarily
makes it easy. MONTROSS
You boys have the space giddies...
but calculating the probabilities,
you may have something... HAN
Chart a new course... LUKE
Boy, will Deak be surprised to see
us. Montross gives the two boys a doubtful glance.
61. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
Han, Chewbacca, Luke, and the robots sit around a large table
in the lounge area of the starship. Han and Luke are deep
in thought. Luke sits up. LUKE
I thought starcaptains were
supposed to be clever. I
thought you did this kind of
thing all the time... HAN
Well, I do, of course. But
Alderaan...even I've never
been there. When I said I'd
take you...I thought you al-
ready had a plan... Montross enters the lounge area and sits down. He flexes
his new left arm which was just replaced. MONTROSS
This new arm is a lot stiffer
than the last one. They just
don't make these things the way
they used to...We've reached
the first perimeter of Alderaan.
What's the next move? Everyone is lost in deep and perplexing thoughts. He is
slightly amused at the young adventurer's dilemma. HAN
I guess there is only one thing
to do, and that is to fly right
in there and take over...we can
do it. MONTROSS
Whoa there...May I make a sugges-
tion to the captain? There is only
one way into Alderaan, and N0 way
out. It's an island city suspended
in a sea of cirrus methane. The
dungeons have triple guards, scramble
scanners, gas locks, and every sec-
tor is isolated...and most important,
it's the dwelling place of the Bogan
Master: Prince Valorum. This ven-
ture of yours is sheer madness; but
I have calculated the probabilities,
and there might be a way. HAN
How?? MONTROSS
It is a rather complex plan; but
it has the greatest probability
of working...Go to the library,
get all the tapes on Imperial
procedure...You will have to learn
the... HAN
We're going to get in by studying
procedures?? I don't like it. MONTROSS
All right then, we'll use your
plan. Han slumps in his seat with a dejected look.
HAN
All right, get the tapes. MONTROSS
...and we're going to need the
space on all of our scan-shielded
compartments and lockers. HAN
What do you want with our scan-
proof lockers? 62. EXT. SPACE AROUND PLANET ALDERAAN
The long ornate pirate starship approaches the gray gaseous
planet of Alderaan. The ship is not propelled, but simply
drifts crab-like toward the planet. As it approaches the
surface, huge billowing clouds extend out like menacing
tentacles. The peacefulness of this nebulous idyll is
broken by the increasing wail of ion engines. Suddenly,
four sleek space fighters from the Imperial third fleet
burst from the huge cumulus range. The craft are small
cylindrical power shells dominated by two huge solar fins.
They are flying in a tight formation; then two bank steeply
and head toward the drifting starship. 63. INT. IMPERIAL FIGHTER - TRAVELING
The Imperial fighters are four-man craft crammed with sophis-
ticated electronic weaponry. The PILOT and GUNNERY OFFICER sit side by side, surrounded
by lighted read-outs. They wear the gleaming black uni-
forms of the dungeon guards. PILOT
No reply on any circuits...She
appears to be drifting; but
you'd better give her a blast
anyway. Two laser bolts scream past the cockpit and explode in front
of the drifting pirate ship. PILOT (CONT'D)
Kuro one to AD four. We have
what appears to be a drifting
TDFI04 which does not respond
to warnings. No life forms
appear on the scanner...Escape
pods four, seven, and Oh three
have been jettisoned...Should
we destroy her or attempt sal-
vage? She looks in good shape.
...Right...Will do. 64. EXT. SPACE AROUND PLANET ALDERAAN
The two tiny fighter craft orbit in front of the pirate star-
ship as small plates shoot from their fins and attach them-
selves to the larger craft. Lines pull taut and the pirate
starship is towed among the towering gray clouds by the two
little Imperial space fighters. The second two space fighters
take up position behind the starship and follow it in. 65. INT. IMPERIAL FIGHTER - TRAVELING
The pilot is cold and professional as his craft closes in
on the starship. The positions of the ships are displayed
on a read-out. The pilot gives the gunner a quick look be-
fore he flips his sun shield over his eyes. PILOT
It appears to be a Corellian
Gypsy vessel, as close as I
can make out...Still no life
forms, no contamination. Life
systems still functioning...
they simply abandoned her for
some reason. We'll bring her
in through the main forward bay.
Is that satisfactory? COM-LINK
Security is standing by. Kuro
one, you have clearance. 66. EXT. PLANET ALDERAAN - CLOUD SEA
The towering white oxide clouds pass, revealing the Imperial
city of Alderaan. The magnificent domed and gleaming city
is perched, mushroom-like, on a tall spire which disappears
deep into the misty surface of the planet. The little pro-
cession of spaceships speeds toward the city. 67. INT. MAIN FORWARD BAY - SPACEPORT - IMPERIAL CITY OF ALDERAAN
The pirate starship rests in a huge hangar bay which dwarfs
the Corellian craft! Hundreds of troops work their way
toward the craft under the cover of reflective shields. A
battalion commander and two guards edge their way toward
the main hatch. One of the guards aims a long laser rifle
at the hatch. A commotion erupts behind the troops, and
they turn to see two SITH KNIGHTS striding into the huge
spaceport hangar. The two Sith knights appear slightly
amused at the cautious stormtroopers. The battalion com-
mander bows before the dark and fearsome Sith knights. FIRST KNIGHT
Chief, get your men back. Let us
check this out.
(to the other Sith)
These MANTHAS troops are getting
far too timid. The Sith knights boldly approach the ship and swing open
the hatch. They start to enter the ship when a loud clank-
ing sound, somewhat like a wrench being dropped down an air
shaft, startles them and they jump back. The Sith warriors
ignite their laser swords simultaneously, and take a defen-
sive stance. The hundred or so troopers duck behind their
chrome shields and direct their laser weapons at the open
hatch. A few more sounds are heard from within the giant
starship. The tension becomes almost palpable. The gang-
ling, bronze Threepio pops his "Art Deco" head out of the
hatchway. THREEPIO
Hello! The two Sith knights give each other rather puzzled looks.
THREEPIO (CONT'D)
I'm See Threepio, Human Cyborg
relations.
It appears my masters have de-
parted, leaving me with their
abandoned starship. My only
problem is that the operation
of Astro-vehicles is not within
my capacity... The first Sith knight turns back to the battalion commander.
FIRST KNIGHT
Chief, hold this thing for in-
spection, and check out the
rest of the ship. I think you
have picked up a piece of drift
junk. Salvage what you can,
and atomize the rest. Next time
a little more bravery, commander.
WAIT before you call us. The Sith knights leave the hangar as the troops shuffle on
board the deserted vessel. Threepio seems confused as
troops rush around, completely ignoring him. 68. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
The troops search the ship with small hand scanners. The
commander and his aid enter the lounge. They are approached
by a slender, weasel-like OFFICER. OFFICER
There are no other "droids", sir.
The ship isn't much -- a rag-tag,
custom-built job...Might be worth
some study... A TROOPER approaches the group.
TROOPER
All clear, sir. There is a row
of supply lockers we couldn't
get into. COMMANDER
Let the scavenger crews take care
of that. Post a guard, and send
the men back. Keep the "droid"
here with the ship; we'll let the
scavenger crew take care of him,
too. The troops begin to file out of the ship.
69. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - HALLWAY
A lone trooper runs through the hallway heading for the exit.
In a few moments, all is quiet. The muffled sounds of a
distant officer giving orders finally fade. A sharp tapping
can be heard very near, and a panel on a row of low cabinets
crashes to the floor. Han Solo's head pokes out of the
hole and looks around the hallway. He then pulls himself
out of his cramped quarters and struts around, stretching
his legs. A second locker breaks open and Luke emerges.
Chewbacca pokes his furry head out of the first locker and
Han tells him the way is clear. HAN
This is ridiculous. I tell you
it's not going to work. Montross
is crazed half the time... Luke straightens himself out as Montross appears in his
locker. 70. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
Luke, Han, Montross, Chewbacca, and little Artoo quietly
make their way down a hallway to the lounge area, where
four Imperial troopers stand guard. Luke peeks around the
doorway, then whispers to Han. LUKE
There are only four. Remember:
Quietly, and don't mess up the
uniforms... Han repeats this to Chewbacca and they both grin with ex-
cited, determined looks on their faces. Luke gives the
signal as the Wookiee and the young Corellian pirate charge
past him with their laser swords held high, screaming like
wild banshees. Luke is somewhat confused by the attack.
The yelling and the clash of swords echo throughout the
ship. Montross holds his ears. Artoo runs and joins up
with the shackled Threepio. 71. INT. MAIN BAY GANTRY - CONTROL TOWER
In the main control tower, next to the starship, a gantry
officer looks up from his desk, as if he hears something.
He turns to an aide who is busy readjusting a monitor. GANTRY OFFICER
Did you hear that? The aide shakes his head; but the officer, convinced that
he heard something, leaves the control tower and heads for
the pirate ship. 72. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
The gantry officer cautiously enters the pirate starship
with his laser pistol drawn. Everything is quiet in the
lounge area. Two guards sit at a table with a third stand-
ing over them. The fourth guard approaches the gantry
officer. GUARD
You have business here? The guard is Han Solo. He struggles to hide a large blood
stain under his right arm. OFFICER
I thought I heard something down
here. HAN
Are you sure it was from down here?
We didn't hear anything... The gantry officer shakes his head at the puzzlement.
OFFICER
Well, I guess not...but keep your
eyes open... The guard standing at the table is Luke; and as he turns to
glance at the gantry officer, one of the guards sitting at
the table topples over and lands with his face on the floor.
The gantry officer raises his pistol and immediately becomes
suspicious. An embarrassed grin breaks out on Luke and Han's
faces. With a swiftness rivaling a Jedi prince, Han knocks
the gun from the gantry officer's hand and decks him. Luke
runs over to help Han, and Montross, Chewbacca and the robots
rush in. LUKE
Don't mess him up! Han starts to change jackets with the gantry officer.
HAN
I've just been promoted. MONTROSS
All right now, you don't have
much time. I hope you can re-
member everything. LUKE
We'll be back before you know
it. HAN
Just have the ship ready. Luke binds the huge Chewbacca with electronic cuffs. The
Wookiee has a worried and slightly frightened look on his
face. Han reassures him, straightens his jacket and they
start off into the giant Imperial city of Alderaan. Han
and Luke walk on either side of the giant Chewbacca and
Artoo and Threepio reluctantly follow along behind.
Montross stays aboard the starship and carefully and
quietly closes the hatch. 73. INT. MAIN BAY GANTRY - CONTROL TOWER
A lone aide is quietly working on a monitor when Chewbacca,
the huge Wookiee, appears in the doorway with a bone-chilling
howl. A look of surprise, awe, and sheer dread crosses
the aide's face as he stumbles over his tools. The Wookiee
flattens him with one blow. Threepio and Artoo waddle into
the room, followed by Han and Luke guarding the rear. LUKE
Must he howl so? Every Sith in
the city will know we're here. HAN
Good! I prefer a straight fight
to all this sneaking around. Threepio and Artoo look over the control panel, until Artoo
finds something which gets him excited. THREEPIO
We've found it, sir. Bless the
maker, this control board has one. Han and Luke rush over to the robots. Chewbacca busies
himself with hanging the control aide by his toes. LUKE
Plug him in. Let's see what
we get. Artoo punches his claw arm into a computer socket, and the
vast Imperial brain network comes to life, feeding informa-
tion to the little robot. After a few moments, he beeps
something to Threepio. THREEPIO
Level five, Detention block A-23,
cell 2187... He's still alive...
but his condition is reported as
critical. LUKE
All right, wait for us here...
Send feed-back into the control
sensors in that Detention block
only. Han puts the electronic bonds back on Chewbacca and the
trio starts out the door. THREEPIO
Pardon me for asking, sir...but,
ah...what are we to do if someone
should discover us here? HAN
Hope they don't have blasters. THREEPIO
That isn't very reassuring. 74. INT. DETENTION AREA - ELEVATOR TUBE - IMPERIAL CITY OF
ALDERAAN Han and Luke try to look inconspicuous, as they wait for a
vacuum elevator to arrive. Troops and bureaucrats bustle
about ignoring the trio completely; only a few give the
giant Wookiee a curious glance. Finally, a small elevator
arrives, and the trio enter. A bureaucrat races to get
aboard also, but is signaled away by Han. The door to the
pod-like vehicle slides closed, and it takes off through a
vacuum tube. LUKE
This is the PT-27 unit that ceases
operation if there is any kind of
alarm. He rubs his hand across a series of small holes.
LUKE (CONT'D)
Gas...Montross was definitely
right. If they discover us,
we'll never get out. Han gives him a skeptical look.
75. INT. DETENTION AREA - DUNGEON
The giant Wookiee and his two guards enter the old, gray
security station. Guards and laser gates are everywhere.
Han whispers to Luke under his breath. HAN
This isn't going to work. LUKE
Why didn't you say so before. HAN
I think I did. A tall, grim-looking officer approaches the trio.
OFFICER
What code is this? LUKE
I've got it here somewhere...
It's SPT 188544. You can check
it through the...ahh, oh yes,
lex-321. OFFICER
It will take a while -- the big
mode is acting up...getting feed-
back from somewhere. The officer goes back to his console and begins to punch in
the information. There are only three other troopers in
the area. Luke and Han survey the situation, checking all
of the alarms, laser gates and camera eyes. Han unfastens
one of Chewbacca's electronic cuffs and shrugs to Luke. LUKE
May THE FORCE OF OTHERS be with us. Suddenly, Chewbacca throws up his hands and lets out with
one of his ear-piercing howls. He grabs Han's laser sword
and ignites it, pushing Han against the wall. HAN
Look out! He's loose! The startled guards are momentarily dumbfounded. Luke and
Han have already pulled out their laser pistols and are
blasting away at the terrifying Wookiee. Their barrage of
laser fire misses Chewbacca, but hits the camera eyes, laser
gate controls, and the Imperial guards. The officer is the
last to fall under the laser fire just as he starts to push
the alarm system. Luke rushes over to the com-link system,
which is screeching questions about what is going on. Han
and Chewbacca disappear down one of the sub-hallways. LUKE
A Wookiee broke loose up here,
but we've got him under control.
There is a lot of damage, four
casualties. The main door jammed.
Better keep the rescue squad away
from here, we've got some fires... He blasts some of the furniture with his laser pistol and it
bursts into flames, creating a lot of smoke. 76. INT. DUNGEON - CELL ROW
Han and Chewbacca race down the rows of low, stone-cell doors.
Han stops before cell 2187 and yells something to Chewbacca,
who covers his face as the young pirate blasts the door away
with his laser pistol. When the smoke clears, Han looks in
the cell and an expression of horror crosses his face. HAN
"Holy Maker" No! Suspended inside the cell by invisible rays, a bloody and
mutilated Deak Starkiller hangs upside down. A strange
yellow glow radiates from his eyes. Chewbacca rushes into
the cell past the dazed Han. The Wookiee yells something
and Han comes to, firing his pistol at a small control box
in the wall. The unconscious Deak drops like a rock into
the giant Wookiee's arms. Chewbacca slings him over his
shoulders, and joins Han in the hallway. 77. INT. DETENTION AREA - DUNGEON
Smoke fills the small control center as Luke fiddles with
the wires on the control board. A series of explosions at the main doorway knock a hole in
the wall through which several Imperial troops begin to
emerge. Luke fires his laser pistol at them through the
smoke and flames. He turns and runs down a sub-hallway,
stopping only for a moment on the far side of the passage-
way to lock on the laser gate "cutters". He takes a small
com-link transmitter from his belt and speaks into it. LUKE
C3PO - C3P0 -- switch off emer-
gency communications network.
We're on our way. Monitor what
you can...What was that, I didn't
copy... 78. INT. MAIN BAY GANTRY - CONTROL T0WER
Threepio paces the control center as little Artoo beeps and
whistles a blue streak. Threepio yells into the small com-
link transmitter. THREEPIO
I said, all systems have been
alerted to your presence, sir.
I respectfully suggest you re-
turn at once... The transmitter squawks a short reply, and Threepio peeks
out the tower window at the starship. All is quiet. He
then moves to the door and it slides open a crack. Several
troops rush past, yelling and shouting orders. Threepio
slams the door shut, and pushes the lock lever. THREEPIO (CONT'D)
Oh no! 79. INT. DUNGEON - CELL ROW
Han and Chewbacca rush toward the detention control complex,
but are met by Luke running toward them. LUKE
There's no going back that way. Luke notices his mutilated brother draped over Chewbacca's
shoulders. His mouth drops open in stunned shock. HAN
He's still with us, but there
ain't much left of him.
Your family must have something
the Empire wants awfully bad. The trio turns and runs down the cell block passageway.
They reach a small grate in the wall, covering a passage
that leads down into a deep darkness. LUKE
This way. It might lead out of
the cell block. Luke and Han pull up the rusty grate, and they disappear
into the black passageway. 80. INT. DUNGEON - PASSAGEWAY
Han leads the group down the ever-darkening, narrow passage-
way. Their footsteps echo on the cold stone steps of the
winding, descending stairway. Han and Luke switch on small
lights in their gunbelts. The rhythmic marching of storm-
troops is heard behind them. Han stops the group before
an intersecting hallway. The marching troops seem to be
getting louder; muffled voices can be heard. LUKE
They're right behind us. Which
way? HAN
Your guess is as good as mine.
Maybe we'd better keep going
down until we reach the docking
level... They continue down the eerie, slimy corridor that gets nar-
rower and narrower as they descend into the bowels of the
city. 81. INT. MAIN BAY GANTRY - CONTROL TOWER
A loud buzzer sounds throughout the control tower. Threepio
rushes to the computer console. THREEPIO
All right, all right, I'm going
to answer it...just don't blame
me if we get caught. He switches on the control com-link.
COM-LINK
There is a problem on the level
five detention area. Double
alert. THREEPIO
Confirmed, and out.
(to Artoo)
Do you think they'll believe that? 82. INT. DUNGEON - PASSAGEWAY
The passageway has gotten so small that Han, Luke and
Chewbacca must walk sideways. Suddenly the way opens up to
a wide, low ceiling corridor that is very dark and dank. HAN
We made it...Hurry! The group runs along the foul-smelling passageway.
LUKE
I think they've stopped following
us. HAN
I wonder why?...It's sure getting
hot down here. Where do you think
this leads? LUKE
It's some kind of vent system. A loud, horrible, inhuman moan works its way up from the
far end of the passageway and stops the group dead in its
tracks. They exchange rather worried looks. HAN
I think I know why they stopped
following us... LUKE
Which direction is it? Chewbacca jabbers something to Han.
HAN
Chewbacca says there are legends
of the Sith keeping DAI NOGAS in
the belly of the city...Dai Nogas
are not to be trifled with. LUKE
Which way should we go? HAN
They are not natural creatures.
They are very large; but it
could be anywhere. There is no
hope for us back there, so I
guess we should push ahead. They start forward; but the giant Wookiee stops and howls
something at Han. The young captain talks to the frightened
creature and eventually calms him down, and they slowly con-
tinue forward. Barely perceivable, a dim light glimmers at
the far end of the hallway. LUKE
Look, a light, head for it! The group picks up speed as it nears the light. Suddenly,
a huge form blocks out the light, and Chewbacca lets out a
terrified howl and begins to back away. Han and Luke stand
fast with their laser pistols drawn. Han calls back to the
Wookiee, who begins to cower near one of the damp walls. HAN
Guns are no good. Only a Jedi,
strong with the FORCE, can stop
it. The huge shape, breathing loud and deep, sloshes forward.
LUKE
Maybe we could out-flank it? HAN
The passageway is too small...We
would have to distract it with
something. The two boys begin to slowly walk backwards as the horrible
DAI NOGA begins its cumbersome advance. LUKE
Get Chewbacca, try to get around
it. I'll draw it away. HAN
Are you sure?? These things
aren't natural. LUKE
I'll listen to your plan... Han turns and rushes back to Chewbacca, who is huddled
against the wall, with the unconscious Deak lying by his
side. The Wookiee is shaking and wailing like a small
child. In the thin light provided by the small door at
the end of the passageway, the faint outline of the grue-
some Dai Noga can be perceived. Luke, with shaking hands,
fires directly at the center of the beast. His laser bolt
passes through the huge creature and explodes against a
far wall. The light from the blast reveals a little more
of the thing, which is something like a cross between a
huge spider and a giant squid. Han has blindfolded Chewbacca, and attempts to lead the
Wookiee carrying Deak around the terrifying Dai Noga.
They edge their way along the corridor wall as Luke fires
a second blast at the slime. The Dai Noga lets out with
a horrible moan and lumbers towards Luke with a new vigor.
Luke backs away firing as he goes. Han and Chewbacca make
it to the door and watch the Dai Noga move after Luke. HAN
We're clear! I'll distract him. He fires a shot at the monster, but it continues after Luke.
LUKE
Shoot above him! Han fires again, this time above the creature, knocking
rocks and debris on top of him. He turns to face his new
enemy, enabling Luke to creep around the Dai Noga and join
Han and Chewbacca. The spider-like monster lets out a
moan and leaps at the two youths. Chewbacca has worked
loose the iron grate covering the doorway, and the group
tumbles into a dusty, unused hallway. 83. INT. DUNGEON - HALLWAY
The Dai Noga bangs against the opening and a long slimy
tentacle works its way out of the doorway searching for a
victim. Han aims his pistol. LUKE
No, wait!! They'll hear... Han fires at the doorway, creating an avalanche of rubble
which buries the monster. The noise of the blast echoes relentlessly throughout the
passageway. Luke simply shakes his head at the young cap-
tain. They get up and start down the passageway. Han is
clearly bothered by Luke's low opinion of his actions. HAN
I don't care, I want them to
find us...I need a good fight...
I could polish off a whole squad,
like that! He snaps his fingers as Luke gives him a skeptical look.
84. INT. MAIN BAY GANTRY - CONTROL TOWER
Threepio nervously paces the control room.
THREEPIO
You mean they've calculated that
the escape has something to do
with the ship! Then they'll come
up here, too...Oh me! We'll all
be atomized. Where could they
have disappeared to? 85. INT. SPACEPORT - PASSAGEWAY
Luke and Han stand before a bay window overlooking the pi-
rate starship. They watch as a platoon of Imperial storm-
troopers take up guard positions outside the craft. An
officer attempts to open the hatch and enter the ship, but
is unsuccessful. He exits the docking bay in a hurry. LUKE
He'll be heading for the control
tower. Come on... The two boys rush down the hallway, followed by the lumber-
ing Chewbacca carrying Deak. They round a corner and run
smack dab into twelve Imperial stormtroopers heading toward
them. Both groups are taken by surprise, and stop in their
tracks. Before even thinking, Han draws his laser sword
and charges the troops, yelling at the top of his lungs.
The troops are startled by this assault and start to back
off. Han manages to cut several down before the rest flee
in panic. Pleased with his prowess, Han starts after them,
yelling back to Luke as he goes. HAN
Get Chewbacca to the ship! LUKE
Wait, where are you going? Come
back here! Han has already rounded a corner and does not hear. Luke
rushes Chewbacca to the doorway at the end of the hallway.
He motions the Wookiee to go on. 86. INT. SPACEPORT - SUB-HALLWAY
Han chases the ten stormtroopers down a long sub-hallway.
He is yelling and brandishing his laser sword. The troops
reach a dead end and are forced to turn and fight. Han
stops a few feet from them and assumes a defensive position.
He is ready to cut them down. The troops begin to ignite
their laser swords; soon all ten troopers are moving into
an attack position in front of the lone star pirate. Han's
determined look begins to fade as the troops begin to ad-
vance. Luke runs down the sub-hallway in a last-ditch attempt to
save his bold friend. Suddenly he hears the clamor of
laser swords and yelling. Around the corner shoots Han
Solo, pirate extraordinaire, running for his life, followed
by a host of furious stormtroopers. Luke turns and starts
running the other way, also. They run around several cor-
ners, and the troops drop a ways behind. Luke squeezes
down a side passage and signals for Han to follow. 87. INT. SPACEPORT - NARROW PASSAGE
Luke and Han run down the narrow passageway looking for an
exit. The stormtroopers can be heard barking orders as
they follow the duo. An officer at the far end of the hall-
way spots them and fires a laser blast at them, but misses.
They reach a complex blast-shield door which they attempt
to open by pushing a series of buttons on a lock switch.
The several layers of hatches and locks slowly peel away.
Han returns the laser fire of the gathered stormtroopers
at the end of the hallway. The signal on their belt com-
links begins to buzz. Luke takes one in hand and gets a
jumble of excited Wookiee gibberish. He hands the small
com-link receiver to Han, who continues his barrage of the
troopers. LUKE
It's for you. Han talks to the Wookiee and seems to be in some kind of
an argument. 88. INT. SPACEPORT - MAIN FORWARD BAY
Chewbacca is crouched behind some supply cannisters near
the main entrance to the spaceport bay. Stormtroopers
march to and fro in front of the pirate starship. The
giant Wookiee whispers into the com-link. Deak lies in a
heap at his feet. Chewbacca ducks lower as several troops
stop almost on top of him. He puts the com-link back on
his belt and draws Deak close to him. 89. INT. SPACEPORT - NARROW PASSAGE
Han gives the com-link back to Luke.
HAN
Chewbacca can't make it to the
ship without help. The final hatch starts to swing open behind them.
LUKE
Then let's go! They turn and start into the main spaceport causeway. A
few feet into the hallway and the boys stop short. Two
evil, BLACK KNIGHTS OF THE SITH stride toward them. Luke
turns and runs back into the narrow passageway. LUKE (CONT'D)
Come on back. We'll not be
stopping them... Han jumps back into the narrow passageway and Luke pulls
the main blast-shield lock switch. The five layers of
door instantly slam shut. HAN
Now what?? Luke shrugs his shoulders. The stormtroopers renew their
assault. 90. INT. SPACEPORT - MAIN CAUSEWAY
The two Sith knights stop before the huge blast-shield door.
Stormtroopers take up position behind them. One of the
knights turns to the first officer of the guard. SITH KNIGHT
Move your man back. The troops scurry out of the way, as the Sith knights raise
their arms over their heads, creating a powerful force field. 91. INT. SPACEPORT - NARROW PASSAGE
The mighty blast-shield door bulges under the pressure of
the Sith para-force. Luke spots a small waste receptacle
on the wall. He fires a few shots at the assembled storm-
troopers at the far end of the corridor, and moves to the
garbage chute. He motions for Han to follow, but the young
starcaptain is sitting in a corner staring blankly at the
bulging door. Luke runs back to him. LUKE
What is it? HAN
It's no use...we're lost. LUKE
No, no, there's a debris chute.
It's the Bogan force making you
feel that way. Don't give up
hope...fight it! HAN
It's no use, it's no use. The giant hinge bolts on the blast-shield door begin to pop
as the force of the Sith knights grows stronger. Luke fires
off a rapid series of shots and half-drags Han to the small
grate in the wall. LUKE
Well, we're going anyway. Think
of good things. Drive the Bogan
from your mind. Luke blasts the cover off the debris receptacle and shoves
Han into the small opening. The giant blast door begins
to smolder, creating a smoky cover for the boys to hide in.
Luke frantically blasts away at the advancing stormtroopers,
then climbs into the garbage chute and disappears. 92. INTERIOR SPACEPORT - GARBAGE ROOM
Luke slides through a series of chutes until he winds up
in a large room full of muck. Han is already stumbling
around looking for an exit. He finds a small hatchway and
struggles to get it open. HAN
The blasted thing is vacuum-
sealed. He draws his laser pistol and fires at the hatch. The laser
bolt ricochets wildly around the small metal room. Both
Luke and Han dive for cover in the garbage as the bolt ex-
plodes almost on top of them. Luke climbs out of the gar-
bage with a rather grim look on his face. LUKE
I'm glad to see the Bogan is no
longer with you, but would you
put that thing away or you're
going to get us both killed. HAN
(sarcastic)
I'll leave it for you to open
then. I'm just afraid we're
going to have company soon...
This is a brilliant escape. LUKE
Well, it could be worse... Before Han can reply, the walls of the garbage receptacle
begin to rumble and edge toward the adventurers. HAN
Now what?!? LUKE
Try to jam it with something. They place poles and long metal beams between the closing
walls; but they are simply snapped and bent and the giant
trash masher rumbles on. The situation doesn't look good. HAN
This isn't working! LUKE
Well then, think of something
else! The room gets smaller and smaller, until it is only three
feet wide. Garbage is snapping and popping as it is crushed
by the relentless walls. Luke's com-link begins to buzz,
and he pulls it off his belt. THREEPIO
I begging your pardon, sir,
but we are going to be unable
to stay here much longer.
Could you give us... LUKE
(to Han)
Threepio! That's it. The R-2
unit is still plugged into the
control systems...
(into the
com-link)
Threepio, listen to me. Have
Artoo shut down all garbage
chutes in the immediate con-
necting bays. I think we're
on your level, but shut them
off on the level above you,
also...Quickly, shut them off! The rumbling walls begin to shake the room, and then they
halt. Han breathes a sigh of relief. Luke goes over to
the pressure hatch and scrapes some muck off a number. LUKE (CONT'D)
Open the pressure maintenance
hatch on unit 366117891... In a moment, the door pops open.
LUKE (CONT'D)
We're out. Disconnect Artoo and
go back to the ship...Avoid the
troops, if possible... THREEPIO
I wish you were here, sir. LUKE
We'll be with you shortly. In-
struct Montross to get the ship
started. 93. INT. SPACEPORT - GANTRY HALLWAY
Two Imperial officers stand in the hallway leading to the
spaceport. One of the officers is a fleet admiral. They
spot Artoo and Threepio waddling towards them and can hardly
believe their eyes. OFFICER
That's them! Before they can do anything about it, Han and Luke jump
the officers from behind, and put laser swords to their
necks. The robots trundle up to them. THREEPIO
Thank goodness you're safe,
sir. Did you find Master Deak? LUKE
Chewbacca's got him. Now if we
can just get by those guards be-
fore the Sith arrive... THREEPIO
They won't be here too quickly,
I don't think; we shut and sealed
all alarm doors in the gantry. HAN
(to the officer)
Come on, boys! 94. INT. SPACEPORT - MAIN FORWARD BAY
Han and Luke, dragging their hostages in front of them,
enter the starship bay. Artoo and Threepio hurry in be-
hind them. The twenty or so troops guarding the starship
train their weapons on the group, but seeing an admiral
held as hostage, hesitate. Chewbacca jumps out from be-
hind the supply cannisters, carrying Deak over his shoulder,
and joins the group. They slowly make their way toward
the starship, which is a medley of noises, as it prepares
for take-off. The main hatch slides open. OFFICER
Forget about us -- fire on them. The troops aim their laser rifles. The admiral panics.
ADMIRAL
No, wait! Don't shoot! They'll
not get away. They'll not get
away. Don't shoot! The group enters the starship and the hatch slams shut.
95. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT
Han slides into the co-pilot seat. Montross gives him a
big smile. HAN
Get us out of here! Montross pulls back on the controls and the ship begins to
move. The dull thud of laser bolts can be heard bouncing
off the outside of the ship. MONTROSS
They aren't going to hurt us
with those peashooters... HAN
There are Sith out there. 96. EXT. IMPERIAL CITY OF ALDERAAN - MAIN STARSHIP BAY
The starship lifts away from the starship bay and moves into
the cloud sea of Alderaan. Troops continue to fire at the
ship as it leaves. Too late, four Sith knights arrive. SITH KNIGHT
They'll not get far. 97. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Han picks up the com-link.
HAN
Luke, jettison the hostages and
get to one of the gun ports. MONTROSS
You'd better get back there, too.
Four TIE ships coming in at six
o'clock. He points out the cockpit window to four small Imperial
fighters banking in on their right side. HAN
Was this trip really necessary? MONTROSS
There's another bunch at two o'clock.
We're into our power reserves, so
take your time. Sing out if they
get below us and I'll kick her around
...Now get going! 98. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - GUN PORTS - AFT SECTION - TRAVELING
Luke is busy checking out one of the two main laser cannons
mounted in large rotating bubble turrets. He adjusts his
head-phones, and searches his electronic tracking screen
for the Imperial fighters. MONTROSS (over head-phones) Here
they come. Han jumps into the turret opposite Luke, and begins to strap
himself in. The pirate starship shudders as the Imperial
fighters open fire. Luke's turret swings around and he be-
gins to return the fire. Moments later, Han lowers his
glare reflector and with a burst of smoke and electrical
charge also opens up on the enemy craft. One of the Imperial
fighters is hit by a concentrated barrage and begins spin-
ning out of control, until it finally explodes. Han gives
Luke a victory wave, which Luke gleefully returns. Imperial fighters buzz about everywhere. The constant flash-
ing of deflected laser bolts reflect in the interior of the
turret bubble. Chewbacca sits in an aft turret, blazing
away at the enemy craft. A huge explosion rocks the pirate
ship and throws Artoo and Threepio crashing against a pas-
sageway wall. THREEPIO
Here we go again. How did we
get ourselves into this? We
never seem to be in the right
place. Over the com-link, Montross gives instructions as to the
enemy formations. Several more Imperial ships explode and
disappear from view. The pirate starship undergoes a great
deal of punishment as the battle rages. HAN
(into the com-link)
We're beginning to come apart
back here...the ship will not
take much more of this... Several of the Imperial fighters concentrate their fire on
a weakened port antenna and finally it explodes, opening
a hole in one of the compartments and everything that isn't
bolted down is sucked into outer space. Threepio and Artoo
struggle to push a large cabinet in front of the hole. 99. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
The cockpit is alive with warning lights and buzzers, but
Montross manages to keep things under control. He speaks
into the com-link. MONTROSS
You're doing great, boys. There
are only three or four of them
left; but maybe it's time we
showed them this isn't your regu-
lation type F-888 cargo-trawler.
Stand by for hyper-skip...and
hope she holds together. Montross pulls back on several of the levers before him,
and the ship surges away from the tiny fighters. The pi-
rate starship races through the galaxy at an incredible
speed; but it isn't long before the Imperial fighters catch
up. MONTROSS (CONT'D)
Take them now, boys. They
shouldn't be maneuverable at
this speed. 100. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - GUN PORTS - AFT SECTION - TRAVELING
Luke, Han and Chewbacca fire away at the now stationary
Imperial craft. One explodes, then another, and before
long, they are all congratulating each other on their vic-
tory. DISSOLVE TO:
101. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - SLEEP AREA
Luke kneels over what's left of his brother. Han stands
in the doorway watching as Threepio applies some medication
to the Jedi's gaping wounds. THREEPIO
I don't know much more we can do
for him, sir. These are spiritual
wounds. The Bogan arts often run
contrary to the ways of science...
and logic. I can't help him. Only
a Jedi can save him. LUKE
He's been trying to talk...He knows
I'm here. He knows it's me. Han simply shakes his head at the situation.
HAN
He must have something of great
value for them to do that to him.
A lost spice mine, maybe? Well,
whatever it is, he'd better re-
gain consciousness 'cause I'm due
my share...and I'm going to be
very unhappy if he joins THE
FORCE OF OTHERS before I get it... Han turns and leaves Luke and Threepio alone with Deak.
LUKE
You've done well, Threepio...you
have served both of us well beyond
your programming. Leave me with
him for awhile, would you? THREEPIO
Thank you, sir. Your kindness is
greatly appreciated. That is, the
compliment of compliments...But
sir, you too ought to be getting
some rest...What with that tempest
we stirred up back there, I'm sure
we aren't through this yet. LUKE
I'll be along shortly. Threepio turns and leaves, locking the cabin door behind
him. LUKE (CONT'D)
I guess you couldn't have known,
but Ogana Major is gone, destroyed
by something -- I can't imagine
what...I don t know about father --
whether he's dead or alive -- or
where to find him if he is alive.
I didn't know what to do, so I
came for you...You can't die, you
just can't...What am I going to do?
Just tell me what to do...Oh, Deak! Luke slumps over his brother and begins to weep quietly.
Suddenly he remembers the Kiber Crystal hidden in his belt. He takes off his belt and fumbles to open the secret com-
partment. The buckle snaps open and a powerful clear light
fills the darkened room. The Kiber Crystal's glow is al-
most blinding. Luke takes the supernatural gem and places
it in his injured brother's hand. Luke suddenly sits bolt
upright. A thought seems to come to him and he dashes
out of the cabin. 102. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
Luke bursts into the lounge area where Chewbacca and Han
are sprawled across the chairs, sound asleep. They wake
with a start. Chewbacca draws his laser sword. LUKE
Yavin's fourth moon. HAN
What's wrong? LUKE
My father's on the fourth moon
of Yavin. We must go there
immediately. HAN
Wait a minute. Is your brother
conscious? LUKE
No... HAN
Then how do you know your father
is on Yavin? I've had it with
your adventures... Chewbacca blurts out a long line of gibberish to Han.
HAN (CONT'D)
Yeah, you're going to get us all
killed! LUKE
My father is on the fourth moon of
Yavin. Your only reward is there,
also. Han thinks about this for a few moments, then throws up
his hands. HAN
Well, we're already headed that
way anyway. DISSOLVE TO:
103. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT
Montross is upset and starts yelling at Han and Luke.
MONTROSS
...It's a wasteland. That system
is way beyond the rim of the galaxy. LUKE
But we HAVE enough power to get
there. Luke slams a connector panel on the computer console.
HAN
Just relax for a second! MONTROSS
(getting more
excited)
We have MORE than enough power to
get there...But we don't have
enough to get back, and there is
no place to get power out there...
We'd never get back. It's madness... Montross starts to bring his arm down across the computer
console to make his point, but Han grabs it in time to
keep it from being dashed to bits. LUKE
It's not a wasteland. There is
an outpost, I tell you... A sing-song alarm goes off on the scanner console. Threepio,
who has been quietly sitting in the co-pilot's seat all
through the argument, interrupts his master. THREEPIO
Excuse me, sir -- but we seem
to be approaching another ship
of some king. Montross looks into the scanner display.
MONTROSS
I don't think that's a ship,
although it moves like one...
it's much too large. It's as
big as a small moon. HAN
A station of some kind? MONTROSS
I don't know. It's moving, but
not very fast, and it's traveling
in the same direction we are. HAN
Move off, let's go around it. We
don't need any more trouble. MONTROSS
I'd sure like to see what it is... HAN
Well, whatever it is, it means
there must be some kind of a
power depot out here, so we'll
continue... DISSOLVE TO:
104. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
The sleek pirate starship drifts into orbit around the
emerald green, fourth moon of YAVIN. 105. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Montross and Han are at the controls, as Luke rushes into
the cockpit. MONTROSS
We pick up no significant life
form concentrations down there.
Certainly there's no outpost... LUKE
It could be shielded, could be
anything. HAN
Could be nothing. LUKE
Move into latitude sixty-one... A light begins to flash on the computer board.
HAN
What's that? MONTROSS
A signal beacon. Something is
sending us coordinates... LUKE
That's it! Lock onto it! We
made it...We made it! MONTROSS
There'll be no landing a ship
this size on that terrain. We'll
have to use the auxiliary units. LUKE
Good. I'll help Chewbacca with
Deak. Luke rushes out of the cockpit.
MONTROSS
That moon or station -- or what-
ever it is -- is back on the
scope. It's either following us
here or was already coming here
on its own. I'd better stay with
the ship. HAN
Yeah, I think you'd better. I
don't like this. Track us if
you can... 106. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
Two small lifepods jettison away from the starship, and
slowly drift toward the awesome, deep green surface of
the moon. Retro-rockets automatically kick in and slow
the pods. The two tiny craft break through some light
cloud cover and land in the dense, steaming jungles of
Yavin's fourth moon. 107. EXT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - VINE JUNGLE
One of the lifepods has come to rest in the middle of a bog.
Han, Chewbacca, and Threepio emerge from the battered cap-
sule as it slowly sinks into the murky swamp. HAN
Montross was sure right about
this not being a fit place to
land. We could have gotten
KILLED coming through those
trees...Well, let's find Luke... THREEPIO
They landed further south, I
think. This is dangerous country.
If you don't mind my saying so,
I think we had better stay to-
gether. Chewbacca inspects a huge laser weapon and straps several
power packs to his bandoliers. The group ventures into a
forest of gargantuan trees shrouded in an eerie mist. The
air is heavy with the fantastic cries of unimaginable
creatures. 108. EXT. VINE JUNGLE
Luke's lifepod is caught in the limbs of a huge tree. The
fragile craft has been ripped in half by the crash land-
ing. A glass-enclosed mummy case containing the wounded
Deak Starkiller is securely strapped in what remains of
the tiny lifepod. But his unconscious brother, Luke, hangs
half out of the damaged craft. A two-foot high insect-
like creature scoots down a branch and onto the back of
the dormant warrior. The insect lets out a chilling his-
sing sound, and a slimy tube emerges from its hairy mouth,
waking Luke. He opens his eyes, but doesn't move. He is
immediately aware of the insect. Suddenly, with one quick
blow, he knocks the creature against the side of the life-
pod, and it is squashed lifeless. Luke is a little groggy, but he manages to climb out of the
wreckage. He hears a frantic whistle, pathetic in its
desperation. Luke looks around and spots Artoo hanging up-
side down, one of his three feet caught in a vine. Luke
lifts the stubby robot out of his predicament and places
him securely on a wide limb. Luke then attaches a thin
cable from his utility belt to the tree trunk, and slides
to the ground. Han and Threepio are waiting for him at
the base of the huge tree. HAN
Are you all right? LUKE
Yeah, I think so. I'm going
to need some help getting Deak
down from there. Chewbacca emerges from the dense foliage and tells Han
something. He tells Chewbacca to climb the tree and get
Deak. HAN
He says we're about a league off
the coordinates. The going will
be slow in this mess... LUKE
Then we best get on with it. 109. EXT. VINE JUNGLE RIDGE
Gruesome and unnatural sounds permeate this ghostly waste-
land. The jungle is a strange and eerie, fog-laden purga-
tory. The group stops on a ridge overlooking the rebel
outpost of MASASSI. All that can be seen of the fortress
is a lone guard standing on a small pedestal jutting out
above the dense jungle. Suddenly, three Aquillian rangers
break out of the dark foliage and approach the group. Han
and Chewbacca raise their weapons. HAN
Hold! Who are you? Whom do
you serve? One of the rangers strides forward, ignoring Han's laser
pistol. He is a tall man; on his helmet is the crest of
AQUILLAE. He advances until he is standing a few feet
from Luke's weapon. ANTILLES
I am Bail Antilles...I serve
THE FORCE OF OTHERS...We are
agents of the Starkiller...He
has been expecting you... Han looks a little puzzled, but lowers his weapon and tells
Chewbacca to do likewise. About two dozen rangers emerge
from the brush and take up positions around the group. One
of them speaks to Chewbacca in his own tongue, and the
giant Wookiee lowers Deak onto a stretcher they have placed
before him. ANTILLES (CONT'D)
Which of you is young Luke? LUKE
I am. This is my friend and a
great starcaptain, Han Solo...
His first mate is called Chewbacca. Antilles bows low before Luke. The young adventurer is
embarrassed and doesn't know how to respond. Finally the
ranger rises. ANTILLES
We must move swiftly, my lord.
For you have arrived with all of
the force of the Bogan at your
heels. The Death Star has found
us once again, and a deadly battle
lies before us. There is little
time. Hurry! 110. EXT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - MASASSI OUTPOST
Luke, Han, Chewbacca, the robots and Aquillian rangers ride
on top of a low, gray armored transport speeder. They swing
past a long line of gleaming spacefighters sitting along
the edge or the vast jungle runway. The several different
types of two-man fighter craft have a wide variety of mark-
ings. Several of the ships have bizarre and colorful de-
signs painted across their large deflector fins, which trans-
forms the crafts into huge and grotesque creatures, while
others create beautiful and unique mosaic patterns. Ground
crews rush about servicing the craft. Activity is at a
fever pitch as Luke, Han and Antilles disembark the speeder
and enter a low metal building to one side of the runway. 111. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
The war room is a mass of glass enclosures, electronic wall
displays, monitors and computer stations. Officers and
aides rush to and fro, ignoring Luke and Han as they follow
Major Antilles to a large, dimly lit conference room domi-
nated by a huge galactic display board. A briefing is in
progress. Several dozen officers sit around a long table
as a young astro-general named DODANA is describing an
attack plan to the others. Antilles stops Han just outside
the door as two braided guards approach them. ANTILLES
You'll have to wait here. Han gives Luke a look of betrayal and anger.
LUKE
I'll be back, and you'll be
paid. Luke follows Antilles into the conference room and a glass
door slides silently closed behind them. 112. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST - CONFERENCE ROOM
Antilles and Luke sit in chairs at the back of the room.
Several officers at the table glance at Luke, but for the
most part their attention remains riveted on General Dodana. DODANA
...and although the digital
analysis doesn't confirm it,
he feels there is a weak point... Several large projections of a huge, armored space station
appear behind Dodana. One angle shows the north pole of
the complex globe. Six black towers dominate the detailed
portion of the sphere. Antilles whispers something to
Luke who answers with a question. Antilles points to a
dark corner of the room near Dodana. Luke strains to see
something in the corner. His hand fingers his belt buckle
and he turns to Antilles and nods yes. DODANA (CONT'D)
...Here, near the north pole
someplace. In an area somewhere
below their generating towers,
he predicts you'll find a small
thermal exhaust port. It is an
unshielded shaft that runs di-
rectly into the reactor system.
A direct hit straight into the
shaft would set up a chain reac-
tion that would destroy the Death
Star. A large, sallow-eyed General named AAY ZAVOR fiddles ner-
vously with a small hand computer. ZAVOR
The greatest concentration of
fire power is at the poles. I
doubt a ship could get in there
to find the exhaust port, let
alone fire a direct hit down the
shaft... A flight officer with a patch over one eye rises.
FLIGHT OFFICER
There is an impossible magnetic
field around those towers. Maneu-
verability in that sector is less
than point three... The GRANDE MOUFF TARKIN, a thin, bird-like commander of
the outland Kesselian Dragoons, stands, and Dodana sits
down, revealing behind and to one side of him a wizened
old man with long silver hair -- THE STARKILLER. He is
apparently asleep; but as the Grande Mouff rises, the
Starkiller's crystal-clear eyes open knowingly. An aura
of power radiates from the ancient Jedi that almost knocks
Tarkin over. The Starkiller is a large man, but shriveled
and bent by an incalculable number of years. His face,
cracked and weathered by exotic climates, is set off by a
long silver beard and penetrating gray-blue eyes. Luke
stares at him in awe. He's at once proud, moved and
slightly frightened. TARKIN
With all due respect, sir, the time
has come for it to be said... There is a long pause, as most of the officers on the Grande
Mouff's side of the table look down at their fidgeting hands
or nervously look away. TARKIN (CONT'D)
After our crushing defeat, and the
destruction of Ogana Major by this
Death Star...the Council has voted
to trust the cybormitic analysis
for future attack and planning pro-
cedures. Your contact with THE FORCE
OF OTHERS is weak to the point where
it can no longer be trusted. This
new attack formula is contrary to
the cyborg plan and depends too much
on faith...a faith that deserted us
at Ogana Major. Our blind, unwaver-
ing faith in you and the Ashla has
led to our doom... The Starkiller sits unmoved, unresponding. Zavor jumps to
his feet in great anger and despair. ZAVOR
Your strategy destroyed us on
Ogana Major! THE FORCE OF OTHERS
is no longer with us. The Bogan
is too strong. This Death Star
is too strong! Finally Antilles can stand it no longer.
ANTILLES
The Bogan is already beginning
to work on you...Will you flee
like frightened children again,
only to be hunted down again,
until there is no place to hide. ZAVOR
We were overwhelmed; his plan was
hopeless as this new plan of his
is hopeless... ANTILLES
You would trust a machine's logic
over THE FORCE OF OTHERS? His son
brings us new faith... TARKIN
His son brought us the Death Star...
He has betrayed us! ANTILLES
He's brought us the Kiber Crystal! The room falls silent. The bent and broken Starkiller rises
and Tarkin and Zavor immediately sit down. He motions for
Luke to join him at the head of the table. Luke hurries
to his father's side and hands him the Kiber Crystal. The
Starkiller holds up the powerful stone and it radiates a
brilliant light throughout the room. Years seem to drop
from the old man as the Kiber's force moves into his body. THE STARKILLER
With the Crystal, I can hold off
the force of the Bogan...but when
its presence is revealed, the enemy
will stop at nothing to acquire it.
...You will have to win the battle
or lose everything...there will be
no retreat, no place to hide if the
Sith gain possession of the Crystal
...finding the exhaust port is your
only chance.
You must have faith...THE FORCE
OF OTHERS is with you. One of the younger officers stands up.
OFFICER
We'll find the port. Several other officers stand, also.
SECOND OFFICER
I think my boys could get in
there -- they can hit it. More officers and Generals join in until even Zavor and
Tarkin are standing. TARKIN
It will be to the finish, then.
This time, victory! 113. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST - LIBRARY
Luke is embraced by his father in the cool, dim quiet of
the outpost electronic library. THE STARKILLER
You've done well, my son -- but
I'm afraid your trial has just
begun. I had hoped we would
have more time, time enough for
you to learn the ways of the
Force. But you'll have to face
the enemy as a warrior rather
than a Jedi. When the Death Star
is destroyed, there will be time
enough for training. Artoo and Threepio enter the room and bow low before their
master and his father. THE STARKILLER (CONT'D)
I trust your replacement parts
are satisfactory? THREEPIO
Most certainly, and your kindness
is greatly appreciated.
I feel my capacities have doubled,
and if I do say so, Artoo is a
new unit. I'd hardly know him. THE STARKILLER
You have served us well, and I
am releasing you from further
service. You may rest and enjoy
your remaining years in tran-
quillity... THREEPIO
If it's at all possible, sir, and
if it's all the same to you...no
disrespect intended...we'd rather
continue to serve Master Luke. THE STARKILLER
The choice is yours. Luke is truly
fortunate. Now go and have them
bring us this starcaptain who was
so helpful to you. THREEPIO
I begging your pardon, sir, but
might I inquire after Master Deak? THE STARKILLER
Deak is doing fine, but the Bogan
is still heavy with him and it will
be some time before he is himself
again. Now be off with you. They bow low and leave the room. Antilles ushers Han into
the office. Antilles bows low before the Starkiller and
his son. Han feels quite awkward standing before the
legendary galactic hero. He gives the old man a short
bow, then gives Luke a slight nod. THE STARKlLLER (CONT'D)
You have been of great service to
us. We offer you this in gratitude.
Luke tells me you have a great de-
sire for such things. He hands the young starcaptain a small box containing many
neatly minted chrome bars. Han's mouth drops open in amaze-
ment. HAN
This must be at least seven or
eight million! THE STARKILLER
I would that I could give you
more. We sorely need a man of
your ability. HAN
I'm afraid my calling is elsewhere.
Sorry, Luke, but I'm not a part of
this. Luke bows his head and is clearly disappointed. He steps
forward and gives Han a gray gunbelt with a chrome laser
sword attached. LUKE
Han, I want you to take this.
It was fashioned by the Bomerwrights
of Sullest. It is a special blade
with great power that will never
fail you. Take care, my friend. He gives Han a hug, and the young starcaptain leaves.
THE STARKILLER
Now, my son, tell me of Owen, Beru,
and the twins, and of course, little
Leia. 114. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
A small silver rebel ship edges close to the pirate star-
ship, until the two craft link up. 115. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - LOUNGE AREA
Han and Chewbacca enter the starship and are greeted by
Montross. Han gives him the box of chrome bars. HAN
Eight million! Eight million
and we got it legal. Can you
beat that? If only Captain Oxus
could see us now. He never had
a haul this big! MONTROSS
You didn't stay long. Could you
have tried for more? HAN
That station we spotted is what
destroyed Ogana Major. They're
going to try to stop it. MONTROSS
Then I'd better get us going. HAN
Yeah, do that. Han has a wistful look in his eyes as Montross heads back
to the cockpit. 116. INT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - MASASSI OUTPOST - READY ROOM
Chaos. Red scramble lights are flashing. Alert horns and
attack buzzers create an unbelievable cacophony. Star-
pilots in a variety of different style spacesuits scramble
out of the low concrete ready room, grabbing helmets and
space packs as they race out the doors. 117. EXT. MASASSI OUTPOST - ATTACK RUNWAY
Pilots and navigators dash in unison to a long line of wait-
ing two-man starship fighters. Around it, crews scurry
here and there loading last minute armament and unlocking
power couplings. Luke, closely followed by Artoo and
Threepio, meet Antilles in front of one of the sleek star-
ships. ANTILLES
This one's ours. May THE FORCE
OF OTHERS be with us. On a balcony overlooking the runway appears the dazzling
figure of the Starkiller. His long silver hair and beard
cascade over his flowing white robes. The Kiber Crystal
glitters in his right hand. The pilots and crews stop
what they are doing and bow low toward the honored Jedi.
Luke and the robots join the others in the tribute. The
air warriors are a wide mix of humans and other creatures
from the many systems in the Alliance. THE STARKILLER
Your next journey is marked by
your given word.
Do not falter, for there is no
retreat from this battle. The
power of the Bogan is strong on
the Death Star. The Sith are
many, but we hold the one power
mightier than they: the Kiber
Crystal. It is your captain and
your banner. Do not fear to go
where it leads. THE FORCE IS WITH
YOU. The pilots and crews bow and hurry to their starships. Luke
helps Threepio lift Artoo into the ship. PILOT LEADER, a
rugged, handsome man in his forties, gives his ground crew
the signal that he is starting his ion engine. He has a
winning smile and a distinctive scar along the side of his
face. His crew chief pats him on the back. CHIEF
Knock them all the way back to
Alderaan. The canopy is closed and the powerful starship moves onto
the runway. Luke and Antilles settle into their craft as
their crew looks down the armament housing. CREWMAN
I've got you about a thousand
pounds lighter. It should help. He hangs a small good-luck charm inside the cockpit as the
main canopy starts to slide closed. Luke and Antilles wave
back to him. Other crewmen say goodbye to their pilots,
some grinning, some kidding -- all with a great deal of
hidden emotion. The din of retro-rockets cuts through the
uproar, and six silver starships leave the runway and dis-
appear into the morning cloud cover. 118. INT. MASASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
The Starkiller sits quietly before a giant computer display
of the Yavin system. It shows the planet, moons and approach-
ing Death Star. The Grande Mouff Tarkin stands behind the
Jedi with several other Generals. TARKIN
They're all away, sir. For the
first time since the take-over,
I feel real hope. THE STARKILLER
Put their com-links through the
main system. Let everyone hear
it. General Dodana approaches the group and leans over to the
Starkiller. DODANA
They've made contact, sir. 119. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN
A small bright speck orbiting the huge green moon of Yavin
sparkles in the light of the distant sun. Six rebel star
ships settle ominously into the foreground, moving swiftly
toward the orbiting speck. As the starships move closer,
the awesome size of the gargantuan Imperial space fortress
is revealed. Explosions create blinding flashes on the
planet's surface as the Imperial fortress bombards the moon
with a fusillade of laser bolts. 120. INT. LEAD STARSHIP - TRAVELING
Pilot Leader, in the first ship, signals to his navigator
who sits in a small isolated glass bubble to the rear of
the craft. The many monitors are filled with various com-
puter read-outs and displays. Over the com-link one of
the other starpilots reports to Pilot Leader. BOMA SIX (INTERCOM)
Look at the size of that thing! PILOT LEADER
Cut off, Boma Six. Stand by.
Bantha pack cover to the south.
We'll try for the exhaust port.
Settle in. Here we go. 121. INT. LUKE'S STARSHIP - TRAVELING
Luke adjusts the controls of the tiny starfighter and lowers
the sunshade on his goggles. Antilles and Threepio rotate
around in the gun-pod. LUKE
Does that glare bother you? ANTILLES
I've got it blocked. I'm all right.
I wish they'd let us try for
that exhaust port. 122. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - BATTLE
Fuel pods are jettisoned. The starship fighters break off
into a power-dive attack on the space fortress. A barrage
of laser fire from the huge fortress creates a wall of
death, through which most of the rebel craft miraculously
emerge, undamaged. Multiple laser bolts streak from the
starship fighters, creating small explosions on the complex
surface of the fort. Antilles directs his fire at one of
the prime power terminals. It explodes, generating weird
electronic arcs that leap off the station's surface. 123. INT. IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS - MAIN STATION
Walls buckle and cave in, sucking debris and personnel into
the vacuum of space. Alarm sirens scream as soldiers scram-
ble to large turbo-powered laser gun emplacements. Officers
yell orders through the smoke and confusion. Men and robots
of various shapes and sizes run to their battle stations.
Standing in the middle of the chaos, a vision of calm and
foreboding, is the evil Sith knight: Darth Vader. Several
astro-officers run up to him, still putting on the helmets
and equipment. VADER
Get to your ships. I'll take the
lead myself. 124. INT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - MASASSI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
Generals and troops listen silently to the action of the
starships over the com-link. The Starkiller seems to be
asleep, but no one attempts to waken him. PILOT LEADER (V.O.)
Boma One to Massoni Base, we're
nearing the north pole transmitter
area. The magnetic concussion is
getting very rough. We're start-
ing our run. Tighten it up. Boma
Two, tighten it up. Watch those
towers. BOMA TWO (CHEWIE)(V.O.)
Heavy fire, Boss. Twenty-three
degrees. PILOT LEADER (V.O.)
I see it. Pull in. Pull in.
We're picking up some inter-
ference. BOMA SIX (V.O.)
Wow, I've never seen such fire
power. PILOT LEADER (V.O.)
Pull in, Boma Two. Pull in.
Chewie, do you read me? Chewie? BOMA TWO (V.O.)
I'm all right, Boss. I've got
a target. I'm going in to check
it out. BOMA SIX (V.O.)
There is too much action, Chewie.
Get out! PILOT LEADER (V.O.)
Break off, Chewie. Acknowledge.
We've hit too much interference.
Boma Six, can you see Boma Two? The Starkiller's eyes open as the tension mounts. He has
not been asleep. BOMA SIX (V.O.)
I've lost him. There's a heavy
fire zone on this side. My
scanner's jammed. BOMA FIVE (V.O.)
He's gone. No, wait. There he
is. Fin damage, but he's all right. A sigh of relief sweeps across the war room. The computers
flash off and then on again as the whole room shakes under
the Death Star's bombardment of a nearby ridge. DEVIL FOUR (V.O.)
Watch your back, Boss. Watch
your back! A TIE squad above
you, coming in -- about six ships. 125. EXT. SPACE AROUND FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - BATTLE - REBEL
FIGHTERS (BOMA GROUP) Six fin winged Imperial fighters dive on Pilot Leader, but
he does a quick spiral turn and eludes them. BOMA TWO (CHEWIE)(V.O.)
I found the exhaust port, Boss.
Relay target six degrees south by
three mark two. It's not very
big -- a direct hit is going to
be tough. PILOT LEADER
I copy, Boma Two, but we have other
problems right now. Pilot Leader and Boma Four dive in unison through a forest
of radar domes, antennae and gun towers. They are followed
by four Imperial TIE fighters. The two rebel ships make
a sharp turn and come around behind the Imperial ships.
Boma Four and Pilot Leader fire into the TIE fighters as
the six ships criss-cross the surface of the fortress. Suddenly, a dense barrage of laser fire erupts from a pro-
truding tower, catching Boma Four broadside. The rebel
spacecraft bursts into a million flaming pieces. Pilot
Leader reacts to the loss of his wing man with a renewed
attack on the Imperial ships -- one of which falls away
and hits a prime power terminal, creating an arching spec-
tacle. A chain reaction is set off, creating a series of
explosions leaping across the surface of the fortress from
terminal to terminal. 126. INT. LUKE'S STARSHIP - TRAVELING
Luke and three other speedy little fighters dart back and
forth across the soft underbelly of the fortress, leaving
a trail of destruction behind them. Artoo is sitting on
the seat-back above Threepio's shoulders. He is beeping
and whistling frantically. Threepio swings his gun pod
around and begins firing at an approaching Imperial TIE
ship. THREEPIO
I see it. I see it. Don't confuse
me, or we'll be killed. See those?
They break up in little pieces, just
like a GS unit under pressure. ANTILLES
Luke, TIE fighters below us. LUKE
I see them. Hang on! The rebel craft dives on the Imperial ships, all guns blast-
ing away. Two of the TIE craft go down in flames. 127. INT. IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS - MAIN CONTROL CENTER
Constant explosions rock the interior of the fortress.
Troops scurry for safety in the panic-ridden control center.
A Sith knight speaks to Lord Vader on the com-link. SITH KNIGHT
Yes, my Lord, the Ashla Force is
strong upon us. I can't hold the
panic. How could it be? VADER
I feel the influence of the Kiber
Crystal. Perhaps the Starkiller
is still alive They must have
brought it out of hiding at last.
We must strain -- counter the
force. Their attack is organized;
they're going for the poles. Con-
centrate there. 128. EXT. REBEL STARSHIPS - BATTLE
Boma Two (Chewie), a young hot-shot of about sixteen years,
miraculously dives his ship through a virtual sea of laser
fire and blasts the Imperial fighters into dust. Chewie
signals to his navigator, who lets out a whooping cheer
as the craft veers into a victory roll. PILOT LEADER
Great moves, Chewie. Regroup at
point two-four. Let's go in for
that exhaust port. Coincide, Boma
Six. Boma Five and Boma Three bob and weave in formation toward
a group of giant towers at the north pole. PILOT LEADER (CONT'D)
I see it. It looks good. BOMA THREE
I've got it. We're hit! We're hit! PILOT LEADER
Eject...Eject. Boma Three, do you
read? BOMA THREE
I'm all right. I can hold it.
Give me a little room, Boma Five.
Watch it! Watch it! Boma Three wobbles a little, then drops away sharply, plow-
ing into a huge laser gun emplacement, causing a hideous
series of chain reaction explosions. The four remaining
starships of the Boma group fly in a tight formation and
dive between the tall towers near the exhaust port. PILOT LEADER
Masassi Base, we're in position
and starting for the target.
Chewie, hold your fire until
we're within point zero five
four. Make it count. Several ack-ack lasers begin to open fire on the approach-
ing spacecraft. The rebel ships direct their fire at a
small, glowing blue hole at the base of one of the towers.
Boma Five explodes, quickly followed by Boma Four. BOMA TWO (CHEWIE)
I'm on it. Boma Two dives directly at the small target, is unable to
pull out and crashes into the base of one of the towers.
Pilot Leader dives between the towers, firing away, but is
unable to hit the small hole. PILOT LEADER
It's too small. It's impossible.
All ships hit. Send in Bantha
group. I'll try to make it. One of the two large engines on Pilot Leader's fighter ex-
plodes. He careens wildly, leaving an erratic trail of
smoke before eventually crashing into a solar panel. 129. INT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - MASSONI OUTPOST - WAR ROOM
On the large computer display board, several of the markers
indicating rebel fighters go dark. General Dodana approaches
the Starkiller in a hurry. DODONA
Eighty-five percent of our craft
have been destroyed. The proba-
bility projection shows little hope.
Retreat is possible at this
time, but not for long. Zavos steps forward in a panic.
ZAVOS
It's just like Ogana Major.
Twice we have listened to
this old man, and twice it
has led to our ruin. We
must surrender before we're
all destroyed, while there
is still time. The Starkiller gives Zavos a hard look and the cowardly
General shakes as if a cold wind had chilled him to his
heart. THE STARKILLER
There will be no surrender.
There will be no retreat.
This was settled. The
force is still with us. The General's eyes turn back to the big board as two more
symbols disappear. The four that are left are flying in
formation toward the north pole exhaust port. DODONA
There are only four left. 130. EXT. LUKE'S STARSHIP - BATTLE
Luke swings the small craft around the many outcroppings
of laser towers and transmitters. LUKE
We'll follow you in Banta
One. BANTA ONE
Ship response through here
is gone. Don't try anything
fancy. LUKE
Antilles, Threepio, as soon as
you've got the target, open up. The fortress gun emplacements fire away, hitting Banta
Three. It disintegrates, leaving a trail of flaming parti-
cles. The three remaining craft continue the assault.
Luke and Antilles watch the remains of Banta Three disap-
pear. BANTA ONE
This is it. Make it count. The rebel craft blast away at the exhaust port, but all
miss. THREEPIO
Sir, I think if you pitched the
ship about twelve degrees on the
final approach, we could clear
the port rim. It seems to be
diagonal, which is why we're off
target. ANTILLES
I think you're right. Luke, tell
Banta One when we make our next
pass. LUKE
Banta One, this is Banta Two... 131. EXT. IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS
Lord Vader and two other Imperial ships wait for the rebel
craft to emerge from the smoke and confusion of the exhaust
port area. VADER
We'll take what's left when they
start their second run. Prepare
the scan ships for low altitude
survey. The Kiber Crystal will
be ours if it's still down there.
Stand by...Here they come. 132. EXT. BATTLE
The three rebel starships bank and prepare for a second
attack on the exhaust port. Suddenly, streaking down from
above them, the Imperial TIE craft blaze away with all their
laser cannons. Banta Four instantly bursts into flames, then disintegrates.
Banta One's tail section is hit, and the ship pinwheels
toward the planet. Blood covers Antilles' face. Luke
struggles to keep control of the ship. Artoo is whistling
wildly as Threepio swings the gun turret around to fire at
the enemy craft. LUKE
Antilles! ANTILLES
The turret's shattered. But
both hatches are sealed. I
can hold out. Just get us back
down there. LUKE
Well, it looks like we're it. The tiny rebel fighter dives toward the exhaust port, but
is cut off and forced to turn away from Vader's ship. VADER
This is the last one. Here's
where the rebellion ends. The three Imperial craft dive on the lone rebel starfighter.
Laser bolts streak past the small craft on all sides. Vader
moves close in behind Luke's ship. THREEPIO
Where did he go? I can't see him. ANTILLES
He's back there somewhere. Luke,
bank a little...See him now? Vader signals his wing men to back off.
VADER
I've got him. Return to base. Suddenly, Vader's wing man explodes into a shower of burn-
ing fragments. Vader is surprised and looks around for the
cause of his wing man's misfortune. VADER (CONT'D)
SR-2, do you see anything? What
did he hit? Before SR-2 can answer, he too is blasted out of orbit.
Vader quickly veers off and takes defensive maneuvers. Above
and behind the Imperial fighters the old familiar pirate
starship descends into view. 133. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP - COCKPIT - TRAVELING
Han grins at Montross and speaks into the com-link.
HAN
I heard you were having some
problems, Banta Two. LUKE (V.O.)
I don't know what brought you
back, but I'm sure glad you're
here. HAN
I'll cover you. If you're going
in there after something, you'd
better get going. 134. EXT. BATTLE
Luke dives the tiny ship once again into the wall of laser
fire around the exhaust port. The pirate ship follows a
short distance behind, but begins to bounce about as it
nears the generating tower. MONTROSS
There is a terrible magnetic cross-
field down here. This thing's too
big. We'll never make it. LUKE
Hold tight. We're almost there. Vader's starship swoops down on the battered pirate ship,
unleashing a heavy barrage of laser bolts. Chewbacca in
the rear gun turret blazes away at the Sith starship. One
of Vader's huge solar fins breaks up, but the Black Knight
manages to keep the disabled craft on course and crash dives
into the pirate craft, exploding on impact. HAN
We're hit. You're on your own,
Luke. 135. INT. PIRATE STARSHIP
Han and Montross work their way through the damaged ship,
looking for a usable life pod. Chewbacca appears at the
end of a hallway and yells at Han to follow him. 136. INT. LUKE'S STARSHIP
Luke dives past the towers and approaches the exhaust port.
LUKE
I'm starting the bank. Let
her have it. The ship skims the surface of the Death Star, blasting a
thin path across its surface. As they pass the exhaust
port, both Threepio and Antilles get several shots directly
down the exhaust shaft. THREEPIO
We hit it. We hit it; perfect,
if I do say so myself. ANTILLES
Pull out of here, Luke. 137. EXT. BATTLE
The small craft veers sharply away from the Death Star as
ominous rumbles and explosions can be heard coming from
within the huge super fortress. The rebel ship speeds past
the small lifepod from the pirate ship as it slowly drifts
toward the green calm of Yavin's Fourth Moon. Han, Montross
and the furry Chewbacca watch the ominous fortress grow
smaller as they drift further and further away. Suddenly,
a great flash replaces the fortress and rubble streaks past
the lifepod and lone rebel starship. Several giant explo-
sions follow, until there is only a smoke cloud where the
mighty fortress once orbited Yavin's Fourth Moon. DISSOLVE TO:
138. EXT. FOURTH MOON OF YAVIN - MASASSI OUTPOST
Luke climbs out of the starship as a ground crew help the
wounded Antilles from the shattered gun turret. Artoo is
helped down by Threepio. Antilles gives Luke a big grin.
Luke slaps Threepio on the back. He then spots Han, Montross
and Chewbacca riding up in a transport speeder. Luke runs
up and hugs the Corellian pirates. They all laugh and cheer. The white-robed Starkiller approaches the group, followed by
a hundred aides, troops, ground crews, and Generals. Antilles and the robots join Han, Luke and the others. As
the Starkiller approaches, they all bow low, including
Chewbacca and the robots. THE STARKILLER
Your achievement will be sung through
the ages. The Kiber Crystal has
stopped the onslaught of the Bogan
forces so that brave warriors can
once again show their merit...The
revolution has begun. A ROLL-UP TITLE appears:
...And a thousand new systems joined the
rebellion, causing a significant crack
in the great wall of the powerful Galactic
Empire. The Starkiller would once again
spark fear in the hearts of the Sith
knights, but not before his sons were put
to many tests...the most daring of which
was the kidnapping of the Lars family,
and the perilous search for: "The Princess of Ondos."
FADE OUT:
END CREDITS.
THE END
NEXT DRAFT
