From: Brendon J Wahlberg
Here, at long last, is the second draft script of ANH. I found this,
and Gallandro did all the work of scanning the photocopies of the
typewritten pages. Big thanks are due to him!!
THE 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 ferocious 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 throughout 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 star destroyers.
Hundreds 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
stardestroyers 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.
Several stubby, three-legged ROBOTS scurry to and fro,
bringing equipment, and repairing damage to sections of
the turrets.
3. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - MAIN PASSAGEWAY
The chaos of battle echoes through the narrow, main
passageway 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
concentration 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 sounding 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 positions. 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
chamber. Artoo stops his work, and the robots quietly
watch Deak's legs as he paces the room. He stands for a
few moments 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 escape 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
stardestroyers 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
stormtroopers 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
revealing 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 seekerbombs 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
inside the huge spacecraft.
11. INT. REBEL SPACEFIGHTER - HALLWAY
The Aquillian ranger charges what's left of the
stormtroopers. 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 everything. 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 moments! 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 partner and
struggles to drag him into the shadows of an emergency
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 reflex 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 patterns, 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
debris. 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 companion.
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, until 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 returning.
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
scramble away from the sub-hallway entrance, as something
unspeakably evil and terrifying approaches the cabin.
15. INT. REBEL STARFIGHTER - SUB-HALLWAY
The tall, gleaming Threepio rushes through several low,
narrow 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_
desperate! 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 robots. 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 preservation.
The safety door snaps shut, and with the thunder of
exploding latches, the tiny lifepod ejects from the
disabled starfighter.
16. INT. IMPERIAL STARDESTROYER - COCKPIT
On the main viewscreen, the lifepod carrying the two
terrified 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
stardestroyers 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
frenzied, 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 cockpit 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,
except 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 -i
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 perfectly still for a few moments, sizing each
other up and waiting for the right moment. Deak seems to
be under increasing pressure and strain, as if an
invisible weight were being placed upon him. He shakes
his head and blinking, 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 stumbles 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 paraforce 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
visible 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
distress. Vader punches Deak one last time.
VADER
You will come to know such suffering 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 clumsily 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
robot.
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
directive, 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
endless miles. He looks back in the direction of the now
distant 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
struggles 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
until 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 complex 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,
dumping the unconscious Artoo into the back of the giant
tractor. 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 powerful 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 "astro construction" 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 recognition 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 hum, slowly moving forward
until a loud scraping noise screams from beneath the
chassis. The red-cloaked dwarf climbs onto a nearby rock
and yells at the others to stop. They ignore 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
ravine away from the sandcrawler. They duck into a tiny
crevice 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 toward 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 dilapidated 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 appreciated...
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 office.
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
frozen. 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
sparkling oasis, with low concrete walls and great
turrets spilling over with foliage from rooftop
gardens. They stop before 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 intercepted
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 message 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 appreciated. 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 deflect the bolts.
The ball ceases firing, and moves back to its original
position. 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 message...
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 rainbow of color as it flickers and jiggles in the
desert wasteland.
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 careful,
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 powerful 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
sitting silently alone. He picks up some small stones
and begins 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, remember
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, unlike 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
uncomfortable.
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
feeling 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 behind 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 embers, 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 unthinkable 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
proportions 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 Transport
guilds. When the Jedi discovered the
conspiracy and attempted to purge the
Senate, they were denounced 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
justice, 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
personal 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,
battered, 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 disappointed.
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
surprised 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!
Sometimes the logic of human relations
escapes me...
Luke thinks about this for a few moments; then rather
reluctantly, 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 lifting Artoo out of the
speeder. The stubby little robot struts around
stretching his joints between irritated whistles.
LUKE
You were right, there is something
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 "jomtrader" 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 spaceport. 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
cantina on the outskirts of the spaceport. Various
strange forms of transport, including several unusual
beasts of burden, are parked outside the bar.
THREEPIO
I can't abide those Jawas. Disgusting
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 BARTENDER 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
outlandish creatures in one room, doesn't quite catch the
bartender'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 standing 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 behold. 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 belligerent 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
unintelligible 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 chilling 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
dishing 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
honorable 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
interest 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 docking 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
behind MONTROSS HOLDAACK, a large, portly man who walks
with a stiff, awkward gait. They move along a tall
gantry overlooking 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
electronic 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
extended...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
generally 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
array 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 enters 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
condition 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
disgust. 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
native 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 appears 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 replaces 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 space station 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
buttons and switches. Han rushes in and sits in the
co-pilot seat. He is laughing.
HAN
Alarms secure...ready for takeoff...let's
get out of here before 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 waiting 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 better 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 difference.
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
buzzing 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 everything is
his...but it's no use. We could never get
to him...it's impossible.
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 already 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 suggestion 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 sector is
isolated...and most important, it's the
dwelling place of the Bogan Master: Prince
Valorum. This venture 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 scanproof
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
sophisticated electronic weaponry.
The PILOT and GUNNERY OFFICER sit side by side,
surrounded by lighted read-outs. They wear the gleaming
black uniforms 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 salvage? 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
starship as small plates shoot from their fins and attach
themselves 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 before 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 procession 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 commander 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
clanking 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 defensive 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 gangling, 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 departed,
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 inspection, 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
excited, 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
standing 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 remember 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
information 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 feedback 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 passageway 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 emergency
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 comlink transmitter.
THREEPIO
I said, all systems have been alerted to
your presence, sir. I respectfully suggest
you return 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
passageway. 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 stormtroops 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
narrower 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 continue 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
gruesome 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
captain. 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
pirate starship. They watch as a platoon of Imperial
stormtroopers 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
lumbering 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 advance.
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 corners, 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
hallway 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 comlinks 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
stormtroopers 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.
99. 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 explodes almost on top of them. Luke climbs out of
the garbage 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 connecting 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. Instruct
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 before 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
behind 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 behind 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
pea-shooters...
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 begins 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 spinning out of control, until it finally
explodes. Han gives Luke a victory wave, which Luke
gleefully returns.
Imperial fighters buzz about everywhere. The constant
flashing 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 passageway 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
regulation 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
pirate 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
victory.
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
regain 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
compartment. The buckle snaps open and a powerful clear
light fills the darkened room. The Kiber Crystal's glow
is almost 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 whatever 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
capsule 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
together.
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
landing. 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 hissing 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 lifepod, 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 upside 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
wasteland. The jungle is a strange and eerie, fog-laden
purgatory. 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 markings. Several of the ships have
bizarre and colorful designs painted across their
large deflector fins, which transforms 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 dominated 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 directly into
the reactor system. A direct hit straight
into the shaft would set up a chain
reaction that would destroy the Death
Star.
A large, sallow-eyed General named AAY ZAVOR fiddles
nervously 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. Maneuverability 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 procedures. 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, unwavering 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
tranquillity...
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 desire for such things.
He hands the young starcaptain a small box containing
many neatly minted chrome bars. Han's mouth drops open
in amazement.
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
starship, 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.
Starpilots 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
waiting 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 starships.
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 disappear 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 approaching 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 computer 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 scramble 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
starting 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 interference.
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
protruding 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 spectacle. 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
blasting 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. Concentrate 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,
plowing 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
approaching 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
explodes. 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 probability 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
particles. The three remaining craft continue the
assault. Luke and Antilles watch the remains of Banta
Three disappear.
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
burning 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?
1
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 crossfield
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 explosions 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
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