by

George Lucas

Rough Draft [First of four major screenplay drafts]

Lucasfilm Ltd.

5/74

1. FADE IN:

SPACE

A sea of stars is broken by the vast blue surface of the planet, Utapau. Five

small moons slowly drift into view from the far side of the planet. The main

titles are followed by a roll-up:

Until the recent Great Rebellion, the Jedi Bendu were the most feared warriors

in the universe. For one hundred thousand years, generations of Jedi

perfected their art as the personal bodyguards of the emperor. They were the

chief architects of the invincible Imperial Space Force which expanded the

Empire across the galaxy, from the celestial equator to the farthest reaches

of the Great Rift.

Now these legendary warriors are all but extinct. One by one they have been

hunted down and destroyed as enemies of the New Empire by a ferocious and

sinister rival warrior sect, the Knights of Sith.

A small silver spacecraft emerges from behind one of the Utapau moons. The

deadly little fightercraft speeds past several of the moons, until it finally

goes into orbit around the fourth moon.

2. WASTELAND - FOURTH MOON - UTAPAU

A harsh gale blows across the bleak grey surface of the Fourth Moon. The

leaden sky presses down on a lone figure, Annikin Starkiller, a tall, heavy-

set boy of eighteen. He slowly makes his way across the canyon floor. The

heavy winds whip at him and make the going extremely difficult. His face is

covered by a breath mask and goggles. He stops for a second to adjust the

shoulder strap on his chrome multiplelaser rifle. Something in the sky

catches his eye, and he instinctively grabs a pair of electrobinoculars from

his belt. He stands transfixed for a few moments, studying the heavens, then

turns and rushes back in the direction from which he came.

3. SUPPLY HUT - FOURTH MOON - UTAPAU

A spacecraft, half buried in the dust, rests next to the remains of an

abandoned supply shack. Annikin makes his way across the colorless landscape

and rushes into the crumbling building. The interior of the hut is shabby,

but manages to abate the howling winds. Seated in front of a thermoheater are

Annikin's father, Kane, and his young brother, Deak. Kane is a large, burly

man, wearing the distinctive robes of a Jedi. Deak is ten years old, with

dusty blond hair and a large scratch on his cheek. Annikin slams the door and

removes his gear. His ruggedly handsome face is caked with many layers of

dust.

ANNIKIN

Dad! Dad!...They've found us!

Deak looks up from a small cube he has been studying. His father whacks him

across the shoulder with a braided wire connector.

KANE

Continue with the problem. Your concentration is worse than your brother's.

(to Annikin) How many?

ANNIKIN

Only one this time. A Banta Four.

KANE

Good. We may not have to repair this old bucket after all. Prepare yourself.

DEAK

Me too!

KANE

Do you have the answer?

DEAK

I think it's the Corbet dictum: "What is, is without."

Kane smiles. This is the correct answer. Annikin is strapping on a utility

belt with chrome laserpistols and lasersword. Kane rises and starts for his

equipment.

DEAK (Con't)

Ahhh, Pop...

KANE

Deak, do you feel you're ready?

DEAK

Yes, sir. I've outmarked Annikin in twelve disciplines. I'm as good...

KANE

All right, son, get your gear.

Deak jumps up with the enthusiasm available only to a ten-year-old and grabs

his gear. His father frowns and shakes his head.

4. WASTELAND BLUFF - FOURTH MOON - UTAPAU

Kane Starkiller and his two sons carefully make their way up a rock bluff

overlooking the parked silver Sith spacecraft. Kane inspects the craft with

his electrobinoculars.

KANE

No tracks. Bi-lock hasn't been opened....Interior systems are still on....

ANNIKIN

Are we going to wait for him to come out?

KANE

He's not in there....He's baiting us. I'm surprised they only sent one this

time. We must be wearing them down, or they must think this knight is

something special....Stay on guard, and keep hidden. I'm going to work my way

across the ridge and call his bluff. Better we meet in open combat than wait

for him to ambush us....Keep your guard!

Kane leaves his two sons and moves off along the obscured ridge. Annikin and

Deak watch him intently. Annikin throws down his multiplelaser rifle in

disgust.

ANNIKIN

He should have let me go with him....He's getting too old to make an open

challenge.

DEAK

He's not too old to realize you'd just get in the way.

Annikin ignores his little brother's remark and sneaks a look over the ridge

at the Sith spacecraft. Kane moves out of the rocks some distance away and

starts toward the starship. Deak moves to the ridge next to his brother, his

chrome laserrifle sparkling in the reflected light of Utapau.

DEAK

He's making his move....

ANNIKIN

Watch your guard...and cover that weapon. It shines like a beacon.

Deak reluctantly move away and watches the other direction. Kane has almost

reached the Sith spacecraft and still there is no sign of its occupant.

DEAK

What's happening?

ANNIKIN

Nothing. I don't like it.

Kane carefully moves to the main hatch of the starship. He kicks a valve and

the hatch drops open with a loud clank and rushing gas. Annikin becomes more

tense as his father carefully moves inside the spacecraft. Everything is

still. Even the continual winds seem to have died down. Moments pass with no

sign of activity inside the enemy starship. Annikin watches the craft with

his electrobinoculars. The waiting becomes unbearable.

ANNIKIN

Something's happened! He's been in there too long.

DEAK

Let me look! Stand my guard.

Deak takes the electrobinoculars from his brother and studies the silent

spacecraft. Annikin impatiently scans the opposite horizon.

DEAK

I think the power just went off. We'd better wait here until someone comes

out.

ANNIKIN

What if he needs help?

DEAK

The power went back on again....

With the aid of the electrobinoculars, Deak watches the running lights of the

starship flash on and off. Suddenly, something huge moves in front of his

field of view. Before either of the two young boys can react, a large,

sinister Sith warrior in black robes and a face mask looms over them. He

carries a long lasersword which cuts young Deak down before he or his brother

are able to raise their weapons. The startled Annikin backs away in horror,

then settles down and ignites his lasersword, which creates an eerie red glow.

He stumbles over rocks as he attempts to avoid the charging Sith knight. The

evil warrior swings his mighty lasersword, but Annikin manages to deflect the

intended deathblow.

Finally, Annikin is able to assume a defensive stance, and the two warriors

stand, sizing up each other. The black knight is at least seven feet tall,

and dwarfs the young Jedi. They stand for a few moments, almost frozen, then

in a flurry of blows, laserswords clash with the sound of electric snapping

and popping. Annikin is barely able to hold his own against the experienced

knight. Many blows are exchanged before the Sith warrior is able to back

Annikin up against a deep crevasse. Annikin stumbles and almost falls over

the cliff to his death.

The black knight suddenly senses something behind him and whirls around to

face Annikin's father, Kane Starkiller, a Jedi Bendu master. The Sith warrior

raises his lasersword, but is cut in two before he can bring it down again.

Kane moves to the fallen black knight, and studies him carefully. Annikin,

still a little wobbly from the whole experience, attempts to stand. Kane sees

his dead son Deak, and goes to him. He lifts him into his arms and begins to

weep. Annikin stands bewildered, watching his father cradle his dead brother.

5. INTERIOR SITH STARSHIP - WASTELAND CANYON - UTAPAU

Kane Starkiller slides into one of the four seats of the small Sith starship.

Through the front viewing canopy, he watches Annikin drag his younger

brother's body to a small crevasse. Annikin places a small locket around his

brother's neck, makes a complicated sign with his hand, and dumps the body

into the shallow depression. The giant engines of the spacecraft begin to

whine, kicking up large clouds of dust.

Annikin climbs into the seat beside his father and removes his breath mask and

goggles. There are tears in his eyes. Father and son look out across the

wasteland towards Deak's grave. The thunderous clap of an explosion is

followed by a small mushroom cloud rising out of the depression. Annikin

throws a container down in a fit of rage.

ANNIKIN

How many more of them are there? I want to finish it, once and for all! I'm

sick of running...when will it stop?

Annikin's father waits silently until his son's tirade is finished. Annikin

sits silently for a few moments.

ANNIKIN (con't)

I'm sorry.

KANE

Son, plot a course for Aquilae.

Annikin lights up like a Bantha at feeding time.

ANNIKIN

Aquilae!! You mean we're going home?

KANE

We both need a rest.

Kane pulls back on the throttle, and the powerful spaceship lifts off the

surface of the Fourth Moon of Utapau.

6. CLOUD SEA - ALDERAAN

A title card appears over a sea of billowing clouds on the gaseous planet of

Alderaan:

Alderaan: Capital of the New Galactic Empire.

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

peacefulness of this nebulous idyll is broken by the increasing wail of ion

engines. Four sleek stardestroyers, from the Imperial Third Fleet, burst

from one of the huge cumulus range. The craft are flying in a tight formation

as they bank steeply, and head toward the Imperial capital of the galaxy.

7. INTERIOR OF STARDESTROYER - ALDERAAN

Stardestroyers are two-man spacecraft crammed with sophisticated electronic

weaponry. The pilot and gunnery officers sit side-by-side, surrounded by

lighted readouts and switches. They wear the gleaming black uniforms of the

Empire.

PILOT

Tok-One to chicks: Shape it up. Let's make it good.

CHICK-ONE

Does that glare bother you?

PILOT

Use your face shield, Chick-One.

The pilot is cold and professional as he maneuvers his craft closer to the

others. The positions of the ships are displayed on a readout, along with a

graphic representation of the city. The pilot gives the gunner a quick look

before he flips his sunshield over his eyes.

PILOT

Here we go. Count: three, two, one, now!

8. REVIEW STAND - PLAZA OF THE DADERS - ALDERAAN

On a huge, austere platform stands the dark Cos Dashit, Lord of Alderaan,

Consul to the Supreme Tribunal, and ruler of the Galactic Empire. He is a

thin, grey-looking man, with an evil mustache which hangs limply over his

insipid lip. Standing at rigid attention on his right are several generals,

dressed in the black and grey uniform of the realm. Five members of the

Supreme Tribunal sit off to the side. On the emperor's left stands Crispin

Hoedaack, newly appointed Governor of the Aquilaean Systems, a young,

treacherous man with stone-cut, angular features and piercing grey eyes.

They all gaze skyward, as the four gleaming stardestroyers scream low overhead

in an impressive barrel-roll formation. As the sound of the spacecraft

resonates throughout the glass canyon of the Plaza, the group of dignitaries

return their attention to the parade of Imperial shock troops, and giant air

tanks (which ride magically two to three feet above the ground).

The Plaza of the Daders is filled with a hundred rows of troops as the last

brigade marches into position. The sound of a thousand men snapping to

attention is followed by a strange silence. A light wind blows the great red

banner of the Empire, creating a subtle flapping sound. The emperor's

amplified voice startles many of the troops as it cuts through the quiet.

EMPEROR

Upon this battle depends the survival of the Galactic Empire. Upon this

battle depends the life and long continuity of our civilization. Not since

the great Jedi Rebellion has our destiny been placed in such a balance. This

is to be the most magnificent campaign of all! You have never been called

without doing something to be remembered, something notable and striking. The

conquering of the Aquilaean System, the last of the independent Systems, and

the last refuge of the outlawed, vile sect of the Jedi, will have such

important and lasting consequences, that I can't but consider it as an epoch

in history.

To the rear of the Plaza, watching the spectacle over the shoulder of a

curious bureaucrat, stands Clieg Whitsun, a tall, blond young man about twenty

years old. He seems interested in what the emperor has to say, but keeps

looking around nervously as if someone were after him. His arm rests across

his head, as he carefully but coolly adjusts a glowing blue ring on his index

finger. The emperor nears the end of his speech.

Crispin Hoedaack has moved up to stand next to the sinister monarch.

The troops shout an Imperial salute in response to a particularly partisan

statement.

EMPEROR (con't)

...I have personally asked the Aquilaeans to accept this Treaty of Alliance.

During the long period of negotiation, they have only decided to be undecided.

We will barter no longer. Governor Hoedaack has been appointed the First Lord

of the Aquilaean System and Surrounding Territories. This is the last

frontier and the final stone in the great wall of the Galactic Empire.

The troops cheer, ad the emperor escorts Hoedaack inside. Whitsun moves

quickly away from the Plaza, passing through several check stations, where he

is forced to show his identification.

9. NIGHT CLUB - ALDERAAN

Whitsun walks into the glass and chrome splendor of one of the famous

nightclubs of Alderaan. He moves to the long mirrored bar, and sits next to a

rough-looking man, Bail Antilles, dressed in the distinctive gold and furs of

the Galactic traders.

WHITSUN

Your glass is empty.

Whitsun speaks into a small intercom on the bar front.

WHITSUN (con't)

A dantic and...

He looks in Antilles' glass.

ANTILLES

No thanks, Whitsun. I've had enough.

WHITSUN

Just a dantic then. Bail, it's not like you to refuse a drink. You're going

to give Galactic traders a bad name.

A drink appears magically from a small elevator in the bar. Whitsun takes it,

and then places a pen-like transmitter he has taken from his pocket next to

the intercom. It creates a low electronic buzz.

10. BAR OBSERVATION CENTER - ALDERAAN

A controller sitting in front of a row of monitors taps his headphones, then

flips a switch back and forth a couple of times. He is obviously annoyed.

CONTROLLER

Number eighteen is out again. Give me a maintenance check.

The controller yawns and puts his feet up on the control panel.

11. NIGHTCLUB - ALDERAAN

Whitsun leans in close to Antilles. He is suddenly very serious.

ANTILLES

Whitsun, we've got problems. They've just grounded all spacecraft, including

trade frigates. Even the ships under Imperial registry can't move. Something

big is up.

WHITSUN

I'm afraid they're not waiting for the Alliance Treaty. They're already

moving against the System. I've got to get word back.

ANTILLES

The chrome companies are protesting the embargo, but it's going to take some

time.

WHITSUN

Isn't anything moving?

ANTILLES

Military ships, but...

They are interrupted by an Imperial officer, and several stormtroopers. The

officer shouts over the P.A. system, as the troops rush to block the exits.

Whitsun and the Galactic trader are tense, but remain cool.

OFFICER

Attention: all Captains and First Officers of Guild Trade frigates will

accompany me to the Ministry of Transport immediately.

Antilles gives Whitsun a hopeless look as the troops check their papers, and

then take Antilles away. A small fight breaks out in the back of the

nightclub as one of the trader captains expresses his dislike of the Empire.

Whitsun slams his glass to the bar in a gesture of hate and frustration.

12. GOVERNOR HOEDAACK'S QUARTERS - ALDERAAN

The large, white-on-white executive quarters resound with the high-pitched

laugh of the evil Governor Hoedaack. He slaps Darth Vader, a tall, grim-

looking general, on the back, and the general's mouth makes the slightest

gesture at a smile.

HOEDAACK

Success, I told you. We are no longer under the control of the Great

Families....We've gained a true advantage.

Vantos Coll, a member of the Supreme Tribunal, and a man of the grossest

dimensions, appears to be a little worried.

COLL

A rather dangerous advantage. You still have a System to conquer.

HOEDAACK

But this System will bring us more scientific wealth than that of any other

House in the Tribunal. We will easily gain control of the directorship.

COLL

Don't underestimate the armies of Aquilae. They're lead by a Jedi.

HOEDAACK

I've told you about Commissioner Lars, General. He worries a lot.

VADER

It's a myth that any Jedi still exist.

COLL

General Skywalker is no myth. When I first arrived at court, he was the First

Bodyguard to the emperor...He lead the Jedi Rebellion.

VADER

Seig Darklighter lead the Rebellion.

COLL

So the emperor would have you think, but I was there.

VADER

Then why wasn't he hunted down like the others?

COLL

Because he is too dangerous, too clever. Besides, his presence on Aquilae is

still only a rumor.

HOEDAACK

Then why do you believe it?

COLL

Because I knew him. He's there, alright. I can sense it. Mark my words:

Aquilae will not be easily conquered.

13. COURTYARD - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

A low, sleek "landspeeder," (an auto-like transport which travels a few feet

above the ground on a magnetic field), glides into the courtyard of the palace

of Aquilae. The planet is desert wilderness, but the palace is a sparkling

oasis, with low concrete walls and great turrets spilling over with foliage

from rooftop gardens. The speeder stops before an enormous shaded corridor.

Fountains line the beautiful and highly polished, tiled walkway. Two young

boys, Biggs (7) and Windom (5) are helped out of the speeder by Amber, a one-

armed bodyguard dressed in the flowing white robes of the Aquilaean military.

The two boys run through the long corridors, yelling and screaming, their

little footsteps echoing throughout the palace.

14. The palace library is a dim, cool room projecting an aura of time-worn

comfort and security. In the distance, the children can be heard screaming

through the corridors. King Kayos, silver-haired but amazingly youthful under

a tanned and leathery face, motions for one of his aides to shut the partially

closed door. He is in the middle of an emergency meeting of the Aquilaean

High Senate. The twelve men sit in overstuffed chairs, placed in a large

circle. A large, sallow-eyed Galactic trader named Aay Zavos fiddles

nervously with a small scrap of leather as he speaks.

ZAVOS

My Lord, the chrome companies are with you in spirit, but you must understand,

they can't openly support you. Imperial trade restrictions are very

unfavorable, and we, of course, favor your independence.

KAYOS

If there were to be war, would your frigates still supply us?

ZAVOS

Your bluntness is to be commended. It could be arranged.

Count Sandage, a corrupt noble of the Senate, jumps to his feet in a rage.

SANDAGE

This is nonsense! We have no choice but to approve the Treaty. If there is

war, the Empire will destroy our entire System with a snap of the finger.

General Skywalker is a dreamer if he thinks he can mount any meaningful

resistance....And you're dreamers if you believe him. So much trust in one

aged man. You must see...

At that moment, all heads turn as someone enters the room. It is General Luke

Skywalker, Commander of the Aquilaean Starforce. He is a large man,

apparently in his early sixties, but actually much older. Everyone senses the

aura of power that radiates from this great warrior. Here is a leader: a

Jedi general. He looks weary, but is still a magnificent-looking warrior.

His face, cracked and weathered by exotic climates, is set off by a close

silver beard, and dark, penetrating eyes. Sandage is somewhat embarrassed and

quietly sits down.

GENERAL

Is there anyone here so naive he believes the Empire would even bother

negotiating if they were contemplating destruction of this System? Your

Excellencies, this is more than a simple raid on your resources. You must

reach a decision.

Mir Nash, a thin, birdlike senator, turns to the general.

NASH

General Skywalker, war is a serious business...a deadly business.

GENERAL

Procrastination is a deadly business, Senator. War is my business. Have you

approved my defense measures?

The Grande Mouff Tarkin wears the long, black robes of the Aquilaean religion.

He speaks with a high, cracking voice.

TARKIN

An actual war with the Empire is still only a remote possibility. As a

military treatise, your proposal has certain merits, but in the harsh light of

reality, an attack against the Empire appears to be a somewhat extreme

defense.

NASH

You must understand, General, we are interested in avoiding a war, not

starting one.

GENERAL

There are times when offense makes the best defense. If that Alliance Treaty

isn't signed, we will need all of the advantage we can get.

KAYOS

Count Sandage, I want you to head the delegation to Alderaan. You will leave

tomorrow with our answer regarding the Treaty. My decision will be

forthcoming.

The senators whisper among themselves.

KAYOS (con't)

All right, then. May the force of others be with you all.

The senators leave in a flurry of hushed conversation. The general is lost in

thought, and remains in his chair. Biggs and Windom (Windy), the king's two

young sons, storm through the existing senators and rush on to Kayos' lap.

The king is obviously very proud of the two young princes. He throws Biggs

into the air, and then catches him again.

WINDY

Me too! Me too!

BIGGS

Leia's leaving! Leia's leaving and you gotta say good-bye.

The king picks up Windy and swings him around, then puts him down.

KAYOS

Okay, whippersnapper, go tell your mother and your sister that I'm on my way.

The two boys run out of the room and are heard yelling and screaming down the

hallway. The king starts out, but stops in front of the general.

KAYOS

Luke, my daughter is leaving for the academy at Chathos. Won't you come and

wish her well? It would mean a lot to her. She truly idolizes you, you know.

Come on, the war will wait.

GENERAL

Of course. I'm sorry, My Lord. Politics always seem to distress me.

The general rises, and as they head for the door, Kayos pats him on the back.

KAYOS

I know, Luke. I feel the Force also.

15. COURTYARD - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

A large, four-seat speeder sits gleaming in the sun-soaked courtyard. The

Princess Leia, about fourteen years old, possessing a soft beauty and iron

will, is embracing her mother, Queen Breha, a warm, silver-haired matron.

There are tears in the princess' blue eyes. Biggs and Windy jump around

inside the speeder, disrupting the efforts of the one-armed Amber to pack

several plaxiform cases.

Leia embraces the king as he approaches with the general.

LEIA

Oh, Daddy, I'll miss you so.

KAYOS

The semester will be over before you know it. You'll have a grand time.

There are so many new things to learn. I wish I were going.

He gives her a fatherly smile, and she hugs him again. The general stands

rather formally to one side. The princess, her long auburn hair tied in

braids, moves to the general and he bows before her.

GENERAL

May your studies do you honor.

Leia is somewhat embarrassed by the general's formality and can only manage an

awkward smile before returning to her parents at the speeder.

BREHA

Hurry Leia. You must make it to Yuell before nightfall.

The princess' maids-in-waiting, Alana, a short, stocky girl, and Mina, more

comely (somewhat the same stature as Leia) with long dark hair, giggle and

straighten Leia's dress before she enters the speeder. The princess and Mina

hug Alana, whose giggles have turned to tears. The two boys scramble out of

the speeder as Amber helps the princess and her maid into the back seat. The

speeder is piloted by a trooper of the First Order. Amber jumps into the seat

beside him, and the speeder starts with a low buzzing sound. The princess

waves to her family, and Mina waves to Alana as the speeder slowly glides out

of the courtyard.

16. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The war room is a mass of glass enclosures, electronic wall displays,

monitors, and computer stations. General Skywalker enters a control station,

followed by a covey of military aides of various ranks. As the group hurry

through the crowded room, men rise and salute the new arrivals. The general

stops before a giant display of the galaxy. Small symbols flash on and off

over various portions of the big board. The general studies it intently.

GENERAL

Montross!

Captain Montross, one of the general's aides, snaps to attention.

MONTROSS

Sir!

GENERAL

What's the TQ on this?

MONTROSS

The last frigate to leave the Imperial capital was at twenty-three forty, Sir.

GENERAL

Have any ships at all left the planet? (to another aide) Check with the

Guild on Horton three.

MONTROSS

At twenty four hundred, a full battalion of stardestroyers left for what is

projected to be Anchorhead, or a nearby System.

GENERAL

And no word from Whitsun. He should have reported by now. Captain Prue!

An older, academic looking aide, steps forward.

PRUE

Sir!

GENERAL

What do you make of this?

PRUE

A battalion is invasion force...but the Empire controls that entire part of

the galaxy....A revolution, maybe. At any rate, they're going in the wrong

direction to be any trouble for us.

The general ponders this for a few moments, then speaks almost to himself.

GENERAL

I don't know... It doesn't feel good.

MONTROSS

Sir?

GENERAL

Put 'em on alert.

A loud uproar is heard on the far side of the war room. Everyone turns to see

a foreign dressed warrior pushing his way past several guards and war-room

bureaucrats. The warrior, with his long hair tied in an odd bun on the top of

his head, is Kane Starkiller. He is followed by his son, Annikin, who rudely

pushes the pesky bureaucrats out of the way.

BUREAUCRATS

It's restricted. You'll have to wait...(etc.)

KANE

Get out of my way, boy, before I grind you into the surface...(etc.)

As the dauntless Starkiller approaches the general, the guards stop in

bewilderment as General Skywalker rushes up to the warrior and embraces him.

The two Jedi warriors laugh jubilantly and slap one another, as the aides and

bureaucrats look on in amazement.

GENERAL

Kane Starkiller - you old muscle-rat! What a sight! We heard that you had

been executed.

KANE

So the Empire would like to believe. I've been in the Kessil System. You

remember little Annikin.

Kane puts his arms around his son, who has been making eyes at one of the cute

young female aides. He bows before the General.

GENERAL

He takes after his mother! (They laugh) It's so good to see you.

KANE

It's wonderful to be with another Jedi again. There are so few of us left.

The cute aide goes back to her duties, flirting with Annikin as she passes.

The young warrior pinches her on the ass, which startles her, but she goes on

like nothing happened.

GENERAL

What a sight!

The two Jedi stand looking at one another, hardly believing the other is real.

Finally, the general realizes his aides are standing around, gawking at the

duo.

GENERAL (to the aids)

Wake up, gentlemen. You're on alert. Keep me posted on that battalion.

17. CONTROL STATION - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general, Starkiller, and his son enter a small glass enclosed control

office. They sit, and an awkward silence passes as each man waits for the

other to speak.

KANE

I've come for your help.

GENERAL

Anything you ask. You're a Jedi brother. We're one.

KANE

My friend, we've been through much together...I've been through much since we

parted. I've lost much... The Empire has chased us half way across the

galaxy... There is no refuge. One day they will come here... Take my son as

your Padawan Learner. He would be a Jedi. I've trained him from birth. He's

reached the fifth stage. He fought in the Kessilian civil wars and commanded

a Hubble expedition to the Cone Systems. He's a good boy, Luke, and one hell

of a fighter.

The general looks down, somewhat embarrassed. He scratches his head, then

smiles.

GENERAL

Old friend, you do me too much honor. I was never a match for you. Why don't

you finish his training yourself?

KANE

I'm too old, Luke. I can't go on... You must finish it.

GENERAL

What kind of talk is this? You're not the old Starkiller I remember. Too

old?!?

Starkiller suddenly ignites in a rage and swings his left forearm down with a

mighty blow across the solid chrome desk the general is sitting on. The old

Jedi warrior's forearm cracks in two, spewing forth wires, and many fine

multicolored electronic components. The artificial limb flops lifelessly to

Starkiller's side. The warrior rips open his tunic, revealing a plastic chest

stuffed with flashing electric parts.

KANE (angrily)

I'm not the same. There is nothing left but my head and right arm... I've

lost too much, Luke...I'm dying.

The general bows his head in sorrow for one of the greatest warriors in the

galaxy and a dear friend.

GENERAL

I'm sorry...

KANE

I'm sorry. I keep losing control. I'm very tired...Take my son! The Jedi-

Bendu must survive. We must pass it on. Only a Jedi can stop the Empire.

We're very old, Luke. A new generation of Jedi must be started. Take him;

teach him the way of the Jedi-Bendu...

Captain Montross bursts into the office and somewhat excitedly salutes the

general.

MONTROSS

Sir, we have picked up something! An asteroid, or solid comet moving away

from the Anchorhead System.

18. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general rushes out of the control station and back to the giant Galactic

display. He is followed by Montross, Starkiller and his son.

GENERAL

Are you sure it's not the battalion?

MONTROSS

A solid object. It's as big as our Third Moon.

PRUE

It's too large to be man-made, and it's too slow to be a comet.

GENERAL

Analysis?

MONTROSS

It's too far out.

GENERAL

I'll be with the king. Report as soon as you can get a reading on it.

(turning to Kane's son) Captain Starkiller, from now on you stick close to

me.

The older Starkiller smiles, and puts his good arm around his old friend.

19. DINING CHAMBER - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

King Kayos moves his arm around Breha's waist as they stand on a balcony

watching the giant twin suns of Aquilae disappear behind a distant dune range.

The general enters, rather in a rush, followed by the young Starkiller, who is

now dressed in the white uniform of the Aquilaean starforce. (He still wears

the distinctive Kessilian hair knot.) They bow before the king.

KAYOS (pointing to the suns)

Aren't they beautiful, General? "Always and never the same." You're just in

time for dinner.

GENERAL

I have come for other reasons. Could....

KAYOS

Relax, General. We will discuss it, but over dinner. There are times, Luke,

when I find you a bit too rigid. Is this your new disciple?

Starkiller is ill at ease and bows again.

STARKILLER

Annikin Starkiller, Sir.

KAYOS

Where's Kane?

GENERAL

He left for the spaceport at Gordon to visit an old friend, Han Solo, the

Ureallian.

KAYOS

We are becoming quite a refuge.

The group sits at a large table, and food is brought in by servants. They

eat. Starkiller is nervous and watches the general, to make sure he is being

proper.

GENERAL

My Lord, several events have occurred which lead me to believe we are in

imminent danger of attack. There is no longer time for discussion and

debate...

KAYOS

What events?

GENERAL

Whitsun, our best agent, has disappeared in the Imperial capital. There is

unusual military traffic in the S-4 sectors...

KAYOS

Unless you have direct, concrete proof of a pending attack, there is nothing I

can do.

GENERAL

By the time we have proof, it may be too late.

KAYOS

Luke, I'm leaving tonight for Amsel. I'm meeting with the full assembly first

thing in the morning. I am not going to approve the Alliance Treaty, and I

will get your defense measure approved. Just be patient. You will have the

war code.

GENERAL

Tomorrow may be too late. My Lord, I need the war code now. We must get our

forces into space.

KAYOS

But it must be done legally, with everyone's approval. Tomorrow you will have

that. I doubt the Empire would attack before receiving our answer. The

separation of war powers is the one condition upon which you assumed command

of our forces. You're a friend, Luke, and I trust you. But you're also an

outlander who controls a great deal of power. I can't forsake my oath any

more than you can. Just be patient. You will have the code tomorrow.

Captain Montross enters the large chamber and bows before the king.

MONTROSS

I bring a report to General Skywalker, My Lord.

KAYOS

You may deliver it.

MONTROSS

Sir, the asteroid has disappeared from our scopes. There is no trace of it.

GENERAL

Were they able to analyze it?

MONTROSS

It never came within range, Sir.

The general rises, quickly followed by Starkiller.

GENERAL

Excuse us, My Lord. We'd better get back. I will wait patiently for the

approval.

The general and Montross exit the chamber. Starkiller takes one last bite of

his dinner, then dashes after his mentor.

20. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general sits rigidly, facing the big Galactic display board. Several

aides and bureaucrats rush to and fro, ignoring the general. he is asleep.

Captain Prue approaches the general and snaps to attention. The general's

eyes open.

GENERAL

What are the results?

PRUE

Negative, Sir.

GENERAL

Are you sure?

PRUE

Absolutely.

GENERAL

It's just not possible. Something that size can't just disappear without a

trace...Check it again.

PRUE

That's the tenth negative, Sir.

GENERAL

I said check it again.

Captain Prue retreats to a computer station. The general looks around for

Starkiller.

GENERAL

Starkiller!

Everyone near the general turns, but Starkiller doesn't show.

GENERAL

Where is that boy? Montross!

Montross rushes to the general and snaps to attention.

GENERAL

Page Starkiller.

Montross goes back to his station and a few moments later, Starkiller is paged

over the P.A. system. The general waits, watching the big board. Eventually,

Starkiller stumbles out of an enclosed computer closet, fastening his pants

and tucking in his tunic. A moment later, the cute female aide rather

sheepishly exits the computer closet. She is also in the process of putting

her uniform back together. Starkiller rushes up to the general and snaps to

attention.

The general lets him stand there for a moment, not acknowledging his presence;

then, suddenly, without warning and in one masterful flash motion, the general

stands, grabs a small baton attached to his belt (which immediately ignites

into a four-foot glowing lasersword,) and swings at the young warrior's head.

In an equally quick movement, Starkiller ignites his lasersword and blocks the

general's blow. Everyone in the war room is surprised and startled. After a

moment, they rush to the general. Starkiller and the general stand motionless

for a few moments, with laserswords locked in mid-air, creating a low buzzing

sound. Finally, the general grins, and Starkiller hesitantly relaxes. They

lower their swords and turn them off.

GENERAL

You are trained well, but remember, a Jedi must be single-minded, a discipline

your father obviously never learned, hence your existence. Clean yourself up.

Discipline is essential. Your mind must follow the way of the Bendu.

STARKILLER

It won't happen again, Sir. There are many new....

P.A.

General Skywalker, white com.

The general moves to a control station and picks up a phone.

PHONE VOICE

Sir, Captain Whitsun has just been admitted to Med Vac.

GENERAL

What's his condition?

PHONE VOICE

No data, Sir.

GENERAL

I'm on my way.

21. MED VAC EMERGENCY ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS

Captain Starkiller waits in an outer chamber as General Skywalker rushes into

the Med Vac emergency room where several doctors are working on the prostrate

Whitsun.

GENERAL

What's his condition? Is he conscious?

DOCTOR

Partially. He's be all right - a few bruises, primary exhaustion....

Whitsun thrashes around in a semi-conscious state. He sees the general.

GENERAL

What happened, boy? What's going on?

WHITSUN (with difficulty)

The Imperial Starforce is already on its way, not far behind me... They're

going to attack.

GENERAL

Are you sure?

WHITSUN

I have tapes...A giant space fortress....

He struggles to give General Skywalker his ring.

GENERAL

As big as our Third Moon?

WHITSUN

Bigger. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. Sophisticated deflection

systems.... work in opposition to the suns.

GENERAL

They will show up on our screens at sunrise. They'll attack before that.

The general rushes into the outer chamber where Captain Starkiller is waiting

for him.

GENERAL

Take the fastest landspeeder to Chathos. Pick up Princess Leia... and only

Princess Leia. Return by way of the Great Reef. Most speed.

Starkiller exits and the general goes to an intercom and pushes several

buttons.

GENERAL

Montross.

MONTROSS

Sir!

GENERAL

Full alert....everything! Get the Royal Family back here.

MONTROSS

The princess is at Chathos. There are no transports....

GENERAL

I've already sent Captain Starkiller for her! Contact the king, first

priority. He's probably still en route to Amsel. Use the scan com. I'm on

my way.

22. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The war room is on full alert. Everyone is at attention, waiting for the

command that will put them into action. The general enters a communication

center, followed by many aides. Captain Montross and the com aide salute.

MONTROSS

We're having a problem getting through, Sir. There is a great deal of

interference.

PRUE

It could be jamming.

GENERAL

Try a surface link through Amsel.

The aides go back to the com-link system to try to get a line through to the

king.

PRUE

We should be able to spot them at sunrise....That's not too far off.

GENERAL

They'll attack with sunrise. Until the king gives us that code to start the

war computers, we'll just have to sit tight.

PRUE

All units are on alert, Sir.

GENERAL (to Montross)

Have you made contact yet? (to himself) This is one hell of a way to run a

war.

PRUE

Sir?

23. COURTYARD - ACADEMY OF CHATHOS - AQUILAE

A landspeeder roars into a courtyard of the Academy at Chathos. Starkiller

jumps out, and runs up to the large, heavy doors of the academy. They are

locked. He bangs madly on the carved metallic door, until finally an old

woman manages to swing it open. Starkiller rushes past her into the main

courtyard where Princess Leia and her hand-maiden, Mina, struggle with two

large cases. They are followed by two very old matrons, dragging several more

cases.

STARKILLER

Forget the cases - we've no time.

LEIA

These are my things. They must...

STARKILLER

I said forget them, and hurry...

LEIA

Just who do you think you are?

Starkiller grabs the princess by the arm, and hauls her to the speeder. Mina

and the old women run after them.

LEIA

I will not be treated like this! You bring my things.... My father will have

your head... (etc.)

Leia struggles to break away from the young warrior's grasp as he opens the

door of the speeder.

STARKILLER

Settle down!

When the door to the speeder is opened, Mina starts in, and Starkiller stops

her.

STARKILLER

You must stay. Here, take the Crest.

Starkiller rips the royal crest from the princess' neck, and hands it to the

startled handmaiden. The old women gasp in horror. The princess starts

hitting Starkiller with little result.

PRINCESS

Mina's not staying...I'm not leaving her. You can't....

Starkiller punches her square on the jaw and knocks her cold. Mina is panic

stricken, one of the old women faints, and another starts for Starkiller with

a large staff.

STARKILLER

She'll be all right. I'm taking her to safety...as ordered. You will wear

the crest and continue as before.

The authority of Starkiller's voice stops the old lady. He places the

princess into the speeder, and maneuvers it out of the courtyard. Mina puts

on the crest as the speeder races away from the academy.

24. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Queen Breha, Biggs and Windy are escorted into a rest area of the war room.

General Skywalker sits rigidly in a chair in the communications area,

apparently asleep.

MONTROSS

Sir, we've made contact!

The general opens his eyes and takes the intercom mike.

KAYOS

What is it, General?

GENERAL

The Empire will attack on the rising of the sun. My agent made it back. I

now have proof. I need the war code...

KAYOS

I'll relay it directly to the computer. Is Breha...?

GENERAL

The Royal Family is safe. Starkiller has gone after Princess Leia...

KAYOS

I'm on my way back.

25. RED PLAINS - AQUILAE

The small caravan of four speeders sits motionless on the vast red plains of

Aquilae. The king returns the intercom to the pilot and takes a small

metallic card from around his neck and gives it to the co-pilot.

KAYOS

Send this sub-land, priority one. (to the pilot) Get us back to Calvas

immediately!

The four speeders turn around and scream away in the direction they had come.

They pass a huge ultrasleek powerplow, planting green fungus in endless

furrows. Two clay-covered farmers, riding atop the ponderous machine, watch

the speeders disappear over the horizon, and into the rising twin suns. A

bright object, twinkling in early morning heavens, catches the eye of the

older of the two farmers, and he brings the machine to a lumbering halt. The

younger farmer also notices the object, and stares skyward, shading his eyes

to get a better view.

Suddenly there is a huge, bright atomic flash on the horizon. A few moments

later, a thunderous shaking, followed by high winds, tumbles the older farmer

from his perch. A second flash on the opposite horizon brings another jolting

earthquake, and the younger farmer collapses, terror frozen on his face.

26. READYROOM - SPACEPORT OUTPOST - AQUILAE

Chaos. Red scramble lights are flashing. Alert horns and attack buzzers

create an unbelievable cacophony. Air warriors, with the distinctive circle

and cross medallion on their white space suits, scramble out of the low,

concrete readyroom, grabbing helmets and spacepacks as they race out of the

door.

27. ATTACK RUNWAY - SPACEPORT OUTPOST - AQUILAE

Twelve pilots and navigators dash in unison to a line of waiting two-man

starships of the destroyer class. Ground crews scurry back and forth, loading

last-minute armament, and unlocking power couplings. Pilot Leader, a rugged,

handsome boy of twenty, gives his ground crew a signal that his is okay. 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. Other

crewmen say good-bye to their pilots, some grin, some kidding - all with a

great deal of hidden emotion. The din of two dozen retrorockets cuts through

the uproar, and six silver spacecraft leave the runway, and disappear into the

morning cloud cover.

28. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general stands before a giant display of the Aquilaean solar system.

Montross signals the general.

MONTROSS

They're away, Sir. Six from Gordon. All other spaceports were hit. The king

hasn't arrived yet.

GENERAL

Keep checking. Put those fighters' intercom over the P.A.

The general sits at one of the intercom panels, and puts on a headphone. A

row of monitors is before him. He turns to Montross.

GENERAL

Where are they?

29. SPACE - AQUILAE IN ECLIPSE

The eerie, reddish-yellow planet of Aquilae slowly drifts into view from total

eclipse. A small, bright speck, orbiting the planet, sparkles in the light of

the twin suns. The six deadly Aquilaean starships settle ominously into the

foreground, moving swiftly toward the orbiting speck. As the sleek starships

move closer, the orbiting speck is revealed to be a gargantuan space fortress.

The moon-sized satellite fortress dwarfs the approaching fighters. Every few

moments, explosions create blinding flash on the planet's surface, as the

fortress bombards the planet with a fusillade of laser bolts.

30. AQUILAEAN STARSHIP - INTERIOR

Pilot Leader, in the first ship, signals to his navigator who sits in a small,

isolated glass bubble to the rear of the craft. General Skywalker is seen on

one of many monitors. A view of the space fortress is on another. The rest

are filled with various computer readouts and displays. One of the other

starships reports to Pilot Leader.

DEVIL SIX (intercom)

Look at the size of that thing! Hey, Bowman, I hope you remembered to bring

your pop gun, 'cause I think we caught us a big one this time....

PILOT LEADER

Cut off, Devil Six....Stand by.

GENERAL (monitor)

It looks like they're still using the basic quad-tristation configuration.

Use a "ranger defense." Concentrate on breath ports and lock areas.

PILOT LEADER

Affirmative base...Copy and transmit....Devil Two, check your rotation plates.

DEVIL TWO

Roger, Boss. We're getting a threshold disturbance on gyro-three.

GENERAL (monitor)

Switch over, Five, cover it! ...Devil pack, generate a spread six

formation...May the force of others protect you.

PILOT

Settle in...Devil pack, stand by. Mark five...break off. Here we go. God

save us all.

31. SPACE - AQUILAEAN STARSHIP

Fuel pods are jettisoned. The half-dozen fighters break off into a powerline

attack on the huge fortress. Multiple laserbolts streak from the starships,

creating small explosions on the complex surface of the fort.

32. INTERIOR MAIN CORRIDOR - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

The chaos of battle echoes through the vast corridors of the fortress. Walls

buckle and cave in, sucking debris and personnel into the vacuum of outer

space. Alarm sirens scream as soldiers scramble to large turbo-powered laser

gun emplacements. Sergeants yell orders through the smoke and confusion. Men

and robots of various shapes and sizes run to their battle stations.

33. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The monitors with pictures from the starships suddenly go blank. Technicians

check channels as others in the war room silently listen to the action over

the intercom. The general remains calm, but concerned.

PILOT LEADER (intercom)

Tighten it up... Devil Two, tighten it up. Watch those towers....

DEVIL TWO (CHEWIE)

Heavy fire, Boss. Twenty-three degrees.

PILOT LEADER

I see it. Pull in... we're picking up some interference.

DEVIL SIX

Wow, I've never seen such fire power.

PILOT LEADER

Pull in, Devil Two...Pull in! Chewie???!!

DEVIL TWO (CHEWIE)

I'm all right, Boss. I've got a target.

DEVIL SIX

There is too much action, Chewie. Get out!

PILOT LEADER

Break off, Chewie....Acknowledge. Devil Six, can you see Devil Two?

DEVIL SIX

I've lost him. There's a very heavy fire zone on this side. My radar's

jammed.

DEVIL FIVE

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 monitors flash on, then off

again.

DEVIL FOUR (intercom)

Watch your back, Boss! Watch your back!!

34. AQUILAEAN STARSHIP

The speedy little fighters dart back and forth across the soft underbelly of

the fortress, leaving a trail of destruction behind them.

PILOT LEADER

Converge on south axis point, point three nine four. It appears accessible.

I'm going to map the surface. Devil Four, cover me!

Pilot Leader and Devil Four dive in unison through a forest of radar domes,

antennae, and gun towers. Devil Four fires into the protrusions as the two

starships criss-cross the surface of the fortress. Suddenly, a dense barrage

of laserfire erupts from a tower, catching Devil Four broadside. The

spacecraft bursts into a million flaming pieces. Pilot Leader reacts to the

loss of his wing man, but continues on his mission.

35. SUB-HALLWAY - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

Constant explosions rock the interior of the fortress. Civilians, including

women and children, scurry for safety in the panic-ridden hallways. Two

construction robots, Artwo Detwo (R2D2) and See Threepio (C3P0), are blown,

slipping and sliding across the hallway floor into some freight canisters.

Both robots are rather old and battered. Artwo is a short, (three feet) claw-

armed tri-pod. His face is a mass of computer lights, surrounding a radar

eye. Threepio is a tall, gleaming android of human proportions. He is thin,

with a totally metallic surface of an Art Deco design. The robots attempt to

get out from under the canisters, but rushing gas from a broken pipe keeps

knocking them over.

THREEPIO

This is madness; we're going to be destroyed. I'm still not accustomed to

space travel.

ARTWO

The external bombardment does appear to be concentrated in this area. The

structure has exceeded the normal stress quotient by point four, although

there appears to be no immediate danger.

THREEPIO

No immediate danger! You're faulty. This is madness!

Artwo gives Threepio a sheepish look and clings to a siderail for dear life,

as debris flies through the hallway.

36. AQUILAEAN STARSHIP

Devil Two (Chewie), a young hotshot of about sixteen years, miraculously dives

his ship through a virtual wall of laser fire, and blasts a huge radar disc

into dust. Chewie signals 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, zero one. Coincide, Devil Six.

GENERAL

Mace, your map projection shows a weak point at south portal: niner point

six. Concentrate the attack on that point. Coordinate.

PILOT LEADER

I see it... It looks good.

Devil Five and Devil Three bob and weave in formation toward a giant

transformer jutting from the fort's surface.

DEVIL THREE

I've got a... We're hit. We're hit.

PILOT LEADER

Eject...Eject. Babs, Babs, do you read?

DEVIL THREE

I'm okay. I can hold it. Clear me a little, Devil Five... Watch it! Watch

it!

Devil Three wobbles a little, then drops away sharply, plowing into a lasergun

emplacement, causing a hideous series of chain reaction explosions.

37. SUB-HALLWAY - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

A huge explosion rips a large hole in the ceiling of a subhallway. Artwo and

Threepio are in a state of shock as they scramble through the rubble. There

is a constant sound of creaking and snapping as the sections of the hallway

resettle in the fortress superstructure.

ARTWO

You're a mindless, useless philosopher... Come on! Let's go back to work; the

system is all right.

THREEPIO

You overweight glob of grease. Quit following me. Get away. Get away.

Suddenly, the hallway lurches, and a dead trooper falls through a gaping hole

in the ceiling. The foot of the carcass is caught in the rubble and it hangs

upside down, staring at the two robots. Artwo grabs Threepio, and they cling

to each other in terror.

ARTWO

We're lost. We're destroyed.

Three sharp blasts from an airhorn send the two androids running for cover in

a burned-out doorway. Five grim-faced troopers riding small rocket platforms

pass the two mechanical men.

38. GOVERNOR'S QUARTERS - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

The five troopers race through several hallways, and finally stop in front of

an important looking office complex. Two officers dismount and enter the

complex. They pass through several heavily guarded doorways until they reach

the main chamber. Seated behind a large, cluttered desk surrounded by

generals and attaches is Governor Hoedaack. General Vader paces in front of a

row of blank monitors. The two officers salute General Vader.

FIRST OFFICER

All com-link power is out. Twenty-two transformer sections have been

destroyed. The situation is grave on all southern levels. Com-link

communication should be repaired shortly.

The officers salute, turn and leave the chamber. The general turns to

Governor Hoedaack, who looks a little worried.

VADER

Don't look so worried. Not even a Jedi could penetrate this fortress...We've

already wiped out most of their forces.

HOEDAACK

If it goes on too long, we'll run over budget. When do the landings begin?

VADER

As soon as the attack has been broken: not long.

A short, stocky attache salutes the general.

ATTACHE

Contamination has set in on quadrants B-5 and R-4. All sections are sealed.

We've lost two major power stations in the southern quadrants. That puts

section 5-1 in serious trouble.

The general turns away in controlled anger and embarrassment.

39. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general sits in a glass enclosed computer station, watching the battle

progress on several monitors. An officer enters and salutes the general.

OFFICER

Analysis reports those ZQ configurations are definitely power

transformers...Everything in the southern sectors of the fortress is out.

GENERAL SKYWALKER

I'm surprised they are still using external power units. It's a definite weak

point. Concentrate on searching for the main crosslink transformer.

The officer exits as Montross rushes in.

MONTROSS

The senate has voted to end the war.

GENERAL

They can't do anything without the king's approval; which gives us a little

time...Have you been able to regain contact with the king?

MONTROSS

No, Sir. All ground communications are jammed.

GENERAL

Send four men..from third squad, to meet the king, and escort him back. Let

me know before he arrives. Is Starkiller back with the princess?

MONTROSS

No, Sir. They're long overdue.

Pilot Leader checks in over the intercom.

PILOT LEADER

All right, base one, we're in position.

An officer with headphones looks to the general. He signals to attack.

40. AQUILAEAN STARSHIPS

All four starships dive in formation toward a main transformer area, flanked

by several solar towers.

PILOT LEADER

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

starships direct their fire at a large black transformer, which when hit,

spurts bright blue and white electrical arcs. One of the starships (Devil

Five) explodes and careens out of formation, leaving an erratic trail of

smoke, before eventually crashing into a solar panel.

41. SUB-HALLWAYS - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

The impact of the exploding starship can be felt throughout the giant

fortress. The tall, gleaming Threepio races through several corridors,

yelling at Artwo, who struggles vainly to e keep pace with his stubby

mechanical feet.

THREEPIO

....I don't care what you do, but I'm getting out. All the power's out.

Those explosions are coming from the reactor section. This is the end.

Abandon ship.

ARTWO

Our work - we can't leave! It's desertion. It's not possible. It's not

possible.

THREEPIO

Your programming is so limited. My first order is preservation. You stay.

I'm going to eject before the whole thing goes up.

Threepio breaks open the seal on an emergency lifepod. A red warning light

begins to flash, and a low hum is heard. The lanky chrome android works his

way into the cramped four-man craft.

ARTWO

These lifepods aren't for us! It's not right!

A new explosion, this time very close, sends dust and debris through the

narrow passageway. Flames lick at the two robots. The runt-sized Artwo jumps

into the lifepod.

ARTWO

It's the end. Eject. Eject.

The safety door snaps shut, and the pod ejects from the fortress.

42. AQUILAEAN STARSHIPS

The terrified androids in the lifepod speed away from the fortress, and pass

the attacking starships.

DEVIL TWO

Object approaching. Attack bearing...

DEVIL FOUR

It's a lifepod. Forget it. We've got...

Devil Four is hit by laser fire, and disintegrates, leaving a trail of flaming

particles. The two remaining craft continue the assault. Chewie and Pilot

Leader watch the remains of Devil Four disappear. The general appears over

one of the monitors.

GENERAL

Analysis indicates transformer code zero three is the main relay. Hit it, and

the whole thing goes dead.

PILOT LEADER

We're on our way.

43. GOVERNOR'S QUARTERS - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

A row of monitors and the main overhead lights go on, and a trooper appears on

one of the screens.

TROOPER

Internal relays operative. All power restored. All contaminated areas

sealed.

An officer appears on another monitor.

OFFICER

Only two enemy craft remain operative. We calculate victory by zero three

hundred.

General Vader switches to another monitor.

VADER

Alert the invasion forces. (turning to the governor). The planet is ours. A

three hour war. You expected longer. Jedi or not, we've beaten him, and the

culture is intact.

HOEDAACK

A truly great prize for the Empire. They have a treasure of biotic science.

Genetics, cloning - they've added two-hundred years to a lifespan. Remember,

you must capture at least one member of the Royal Family alive. The Aquilae

family has ruled this system for ten thousand years. The people will follow

no other. If the royal line is broken, there is a good chance the entire

population will destroy themselves and their knowledge before submitting to

our rule.

The general is interrupted by a call on one of the monitors.

OFFICER (on monitor)

We've received a message from the planet....

44. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Skywalker watches a giant computer display of the space fortress

mapped by the starships. An aide approaches.

AIDE

Sir! The king's convoy has destroyed at Caldin. All the bodies were

contaminated.

GENERAL

I will audience with the queen.... Who knows of this?

AIDE

Many. It came through civilian sources.

GENERAL

Confine Senator Sandage to his quarters. Use any pretext. Where is the

senator now?

Sandage and several other senators enter the computer station.

SANDAGE

Right here, General...It's over. We've already relayed peace terms to the

Empire, and they've been accepted. Your war has ended.

The general is angry and stands pointing at the senators. They jump back, as

if the general were pointing a gun at them.

GENERAL

Senator, this war isn't over. It's just begun. I take my commands from the

Royal Family.

SANDAGE

The queen concurs. I have her written decree. It is to be implemented

immediately..... I order you to cease the attack.

GENERAL

Not likely...

SANDAGE

Treason? Revolution? The people won't follow you, General...nor will your

troops. I suggest you follow your orders.

General Skywalker stands angrily pondering the situation. Sandage and the

other senators are tense, a little afraid that he might cut them down on the

spot.

SANDAGE

Well, General?

45. LIFEPOD - SKY OVER AQUILAE

The reddish-yellow mass of Aquilae seems to engulf the tiny lifepod containing

the two fleeing androids.

ARTWO

It's desertion. They'll destroy us. How could this happen?

THREEPIO

That's funny. The damage doesn't look as bad from out here.

46. AQUILAEAN STARSHIPS

Pilot Leader and Devil Two make a second dive on the now smoldering

transformer area. All firing from the fortress suddenly stops. Pilot Leader

looks back to his navigator, who is equally puzzled. The two fighters

continue to attack the now silent fortress.

CHEWIE (DEVIL TWO)

I don't get it. What do you think, Boss?

General Skywalker appears on the monitors.

GENERAL (with difficulty)

Base one to Devil Leader...Scramble code niner. Break your attack, and return

to base. Repeat, break your attack. Confirm.

PILOT LEADER

They're hurt, Sir, but they still have power. We should finish....

GENERAL

Break off. The war is over. Run on white lights. Get back here, Mace.

We're going to need you.

PILOT LEADER

Confirmed, base one. We're on our way. Did you copy, Chewie?

DEVIL TWO

Roger, Boss.

The two starfighters break off the attack and start back toward the planet.

Without warning, the fort directs concentrated fire at the two starfighters.

Devil Two instantly bursts into flames, then disintegrates. Pilot Leader's

tail section is hit, and the ship pinwheels toward the planet. Blood covers

Pilot Leader's immobile face.

PILOT LEADER'S NAVIGATOR

We're under fire...They're still shooting. I thought it was over. We're hit!

We're hit! Pilot is dead....Ejecting.

The dead "Pilot Leader" is jettisoned free of the craft, but the navigator's

eject panel is dead. He struggles with it, then bangs on the canopy to no

avail. The navigator is still trapped in the craft when it explodes, leaving

only a puff of pink smoke reflected in the rim light of the planet.

47. DESERT NEAR OUTPOST - AQUILAE

Pilot Leader's dead body drifts toward his arid mother-planet. Automatic

rockets kick-in occasionally, to direct and soften the landing. Two grey-clad

troopers stand next to a military "landspeeder;" watching the descending

airwarrior through electrobinoculars. Mace's corpse hits the ground rather

hard, creating a whirlwind of dust, and the two troopers rush over to the

pilot. The younger of the two troopers, a young boy in his teens, cradles the

dead starpilot in his arms and begins to cry.

48. WAR ROOM - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Skywalker sits alone, meditating in the deserted war room. Montross

approaches the contemplative general.

MONTROSS

No sign of Starkiller or the princess. There was much damage in that

area...The queen will see you at ten hundred.

The general doesn't reply.

49. ASSEMBLY - DEPARTURE AREA - IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS

General Vader stands behind a row of men at computer control panels. A

commander reports to the general.

COMMANDER

All enemy craft destroyed. First and fifth division, troops and equipment

standing by.

The general gives a sly smile of approval and takes a microphone from one of

the computer technicians. He speaks to the troops and pilots waiting in their

huge war machines for the invasion order.

VADER

The war is won. With the conquering of this System we have ushered in a new

millenium for the Empire; which will echo throughout the universe. Our reward

is the knowledge this system possesses. This planet must be controlled with a

minimum of force, but you must not think lightly of this enemy. They have

exacted a heavy toll. Today you will make the Empire complete. Do so with

pride and care.

Vader puts down the mike, and turns to his commander.

GENERAL

Let the invasion begin.

50. EDGE OF THE DUNE SEA - AQUILAE

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 clumsily work their way across the desert coastline. The short Artwo

struggles desperately to keep up with the long-legged Threepio.

ARTWO

It's not possible. We're not built for this. You're nothing more than a dim-

witted, emotion-brained intellectual. Why you were created is beyond my logic

systems. Thanks to you, we're deserters, and will probably be destroyed on

sight. And on top of that, you're going the wrong way! All this filth is

getting....

The towering Threepio stops short and turns on the blabbering mechanical runt.

THREEPIO

I've had enough of you, you pragmatic, nearsighted scrap pile. You go your

own way.

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. Artwo struggles to his

feet, and shakes a metallic claw arm at his disappearing ex-partner.

ARTWO

You'll be malfunctioning within a day. You're going the wrong way, but your

way is always the wrong way.

Threepio stops and yells to the smaller android.

THREEPIO

And don't let me catch you following me, begging for help, because you won't

get it from me.

Artwo's reply is a rather rude sound, which only an electronic person could

make. He turns and trudges off in the opposite direction into the rocky

desert mesas.

51. DUNE SEA - AQUILAE

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 he came.

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.

52. DESERT MESA - AQUILAE

Artwo stumbles through a narrow canyon until he climbs over a small boulder

and sees before him a sight he first thinks is a mirage. Nestled in a rock

formation is a deserted landspeeder. Once the little robot is convinced that

he is alone, he approaches the battered speeder and begins to analyze it. He

climbs into the pilot's seat, and attempts to start the unfamiliar transport.

He hears a sound, and stops for a moment. He sees nothing, so he continues to

fiddle with the control panel until the speeder lurches forward with a start,

banging into a large rock. The stubby android is shaken, but neither he, nor

the speeder, seems to be damaged.

Shivers run down Artwo's metal spine, and again he has an eerie feeling that

he is being watched. He slowly looks around, and sees a large man, Captain

Starkiller, standing directly behind him. He is startled, then terrified.

STARKILLER

Where is your master?

The little robot clicks and rattles, but doesn't speak.

STARKILLER (Con't)

Can't you speak? How do you relate your data? You're of Karollian

manufacture...You should be able to talk. Are you damaged?

Starkiller pokes at the machine, but doesn't see any damage. Artwo eyes him

suspiciously. The robot turns with a start and discovers a young girl,

Princess Leia, has been standing next to him for some time.

PRINCESS (sarcastic)

Well, General, who's your friend?

STARKILLER

I don't know. He doesn't seem to be able to talk. Damaged,

probably....Jettisoned from a damaged ship...

PRINCESS

What do you intend to do with it?

STARKILLER

We'll take it with us. Could be a storehouse of valuable information.

Starkiller guides the android into the small luggage area behind the front

seat, then hops into the driver's seat.

PRINCESS

I don't want to ride with that hing. I order you to destroy it immediately.

STARKILLER

Get in! We've got to hurry if we're going to get across the "dunehedge" by

nightfall...You're coming, one way or the other. Will you join us peaceably?

The princess reluctantly gets into the speeder, and it starts with a jolt.

53. LANDSPEEDER - DESERT MESAS - AQUILAE

The speeder flies along, a foot or so above the landscape.

PRINCESS

You are such a barbarian. I'll have my father cut you into little pieces when

we get back...and I'll take pleasure in feeding you to the Gonthas....a little

bit each day. I may save your eyes though. I'll have them petrified and made

into a necklace.

STARKILLER

Your sweetness is only surpassed by your beauty. Just try to remember, I'm

only following orders.

PRINCESS

... to beat me and abuse me?

STARKILLER

I'm afraid I've only learned one way to treat wild animals.

Artwo thrashes about, trying to relieve the pressure on his crumped legs.

PRINCESS

You stay out of this.

54. DUNE SEA

Threepio struggles to the top of a large dune. He is dirty and hot. His

plight seems hopeless. He searches the horizon for any sign of life. A glint

of reflected light in the distance reveals an object speeding toward him. The

chrome android waves frantically, and yells at the approaching speeder. The

sleek landspeeder races past him about a hundred yards away. He runs after

it, screaming in desperation, until he stumbles and falls head over heels down

an enormous sand dune. Silently, the speeder sweeps around in a circle and

stops behind the immobile robot. Starkiller jumps out of the landspeeder and

is quickly followed by Artwo.

PRINCESS

We're in a hurry, remember! If you're going to stop for everyone unfortunate

along the way, we'll never get back. We're lucky you got the speeder running

as it is.

Artwo waddles up to his fallen partner and starts pulling on his leg, then

runs up and starts pulling on his arm.

ARTWO

Function! Function! It's me. Come on, function.

STARKILLER

Well, my little friend, you've found your tongue.

ARTWO

We must help him... We've been lost.

STARKILLER

Where did you come from?

The little robot runs around his fallen partner giving him small electric

charges from his claw hand. Threepio shudders from head to toe, then regains

consciousness.

THREEPIO

What happened?

ARTWO

You're overheated.

STARKILLER

Where did you come from?

ARTWO

We were jettisoned from six twenty-nine, P.R. one.

STARKILLER

I'm unfamiliar with that ship. What type is it?

THREEPIO

It's a class M station, not a conventional craft.

Threepio then stands and shakes the young Jedi's hand.

THREEPIO (Con't)

I'm Seethreepio, Human-Cyborg Relations. Your kindness is greatly

appreciated.

Starkiller and the two robots walk back to the speeder.

55. Both Artwo and Threepio are stuffed into the tiny luggage compartment.

It is late in the day when the speeder rumbles to a stop in a small desert

canyon surrounded by steep cliffs and broken boulders.

STARKILLER

We'll rest here.

THREEPIO

At last. The transport is welcome but my joints are frozen.

Everyone climbs out of the low-slung speeder. Starkiller watches the two

androids as they stretch their mechanical limbs.

ARTWO

I've got a bad case of dust contamination. I can barely move.

THREEPIO

What a foresaken place this is. We seem to be made to suffer. It's our lot

in life. Sir, could you tell....

Threepio turns and notices that Starkiller and the princess have disappeared.

He looks all around.

THREEPIO

Where did they go? They've disappeared.

ARTWO

Maybe they were attacked! I sense danger!

55. HIDDEN FORTRESS ENTRANCE - DESERT CANYON - AQUILAE [scene number - sic]

Captain Starkiller and Princess Leia hurry through a maze of large boulders,

until they reach a sheer rock face. Starkiller looks around to see if they

were followed. Suddenly, a large section of the rock slides away, revealing a

well-lit corridor carved out of the rock. They enter, and are greeted by two

jubilant guards. Starkiller gives them some orders and points in the

direction of the speeder. The secret rock door silently slides closed.

57. MAIN HALLWAY - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller and the princess are greeted by General Skywalker and Montross.

They bow before the princess.

PRINCESS (angrily pointing at Starkiller)

General, I want you to do something with this..this barbarian. Where's my

father?

GENERAL

The king is dead, Your Highness.

All anger suddenly drains from the princess. She almost timidly asks the next

question.

PRINCESS

My mother?... and brothers?

GENERAL

She's here. She's safe...so are your brothers. They're in the main chamber.

Leia, now looking more like a frightened young girl than a vindictive

princess, runs down the hallway toward the main chamber. She vainly attempts

to hold back the tears.

58. DESERT CANYON - AQUILAE

The two puzzled androids sit on the landspeeder, pondering the disappearance

of their saviour.

THREEPIO

Do you suppose we're in danger?

ARTWO

The logic of this environment escapes me.

As night begins to fall, and the shadows begin to lengthen, the two robots

begin to get a little edgy. The sound of approaching feet startles Artwo, and

he ducks behind his taller friend. Two guards approach the robots.

GUARD

You will remain calm, and you will remain here.

THREEPIO

Certainly. I'm Seethreepio, Human-Cyborg Relations. Your kindness is

gratefully appreciated.

Artwo sits rather suspiciously behind his extroverted friend.

59. ROYAL CHAMBER - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Skywalker bows low before Princess Leia. She sits on a raised

platform, dressed in the royal robes of a planetary ruler. The queen sits off

to one side on a smaller platform. The princess waits for a few moments

before she allows the general to rise.

QUEEN

The senate has been corrupted.

GENERAL

They cannot rule without your wish...

QUEEN

I rule by marriage. With the king dead, I am not strong enough to stop

them... Leia is now the true queen... She must be protected. The line must be

preserved. I am placing the future of our people in your hands. You must

deliver Leia and her brothers to the Ophuchi System. They will be safe there.

General, you must understand, I had no alternative but to condone an end to

the hostilities. I deeply believe your campaign could have been successful,

but there are things that...

GENERAL

I understand, Your Highness...

QUEEN

The chrome companies on Ophuchi have offered to supply you with the men and

ships necessary to return Leia to the throne.

GENERAL

Can the chrome companies be trusted?

QUEEN

The price for their cooperation is high. It is waiting for you in Med Center

blue. Guard it as you would the princess herself. No-one must know of this

mission. There are those among the trusted who would wish us ill. Take only

two of your best officers with you, the most loyal. May the force of others

be with you.

LEIA

Mother, you must not stay.

QUEEN

I am too old for such a journey. The Empire already controls the spaceport

cities. You have a long way to travel. It won't be easy.

GENERAL

We will have to travel in disguise. I must have full command. No-one can

suspect wealth or royal training. I fear the new queen will not stand for

this.

LEIA (angry)

Do not put words into my mouth. I will stand for what is necessary.

The general simply smiles.

60. SUB-HALLWAY - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general walks briskly through an isolated hallway, closely followed by

Montross.

GENERAL

How is Captain Whitsun's recovery?

MONTROSS

Very good; he's up and around.

GENERAL

Fine! Have Whitsun and...ah, Starkiller report at zero three hundred. I want

two converted transports: agricultural type, two days' provisions, travel

papers, weapons. Contact Han Solo at the Gordon spaceport...I'll talk to

him... with speed!

Montross turns and rushes down another hallway.

61. MEDICAL CENTER BLUE - UNDERGROUND FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The general enters a stark white waiting area filled with scholarly looking

gentlemen. An attendant greets General Skywalker and takes him into a small

observation chamber overlooking a large operating theatre. An elderly doctor

greets him.

DOCTOR

Good to see you, General. I'm afraid we're not quite ready yet. Thank God

you'll be the one taking them, though.

An attendant brings in one of the scholars from the waiting area and places

him on a large operating table surrounded by strange looking equipment. An

ominous looking clamp is placed on the man's head.

GENERAL

How many are going?

DOCTOR

Thirty-three of the greatest scientific minds in our System...A high price for

freedom.

GENERAL

Thirty-three scientists! Transporting a group that size, undetected... I

don't...

DOCTOR

Don't worry, General. All you'll be taking are their minds.

The doctor moves over to a safe-like cabinet guarded by two attendants. The

doctor gingerly picks up a small clear vial filled with grey fluid. It has a

label which reads: Faubun, Astro-dynamics...In the background the scholar on

the operating table is undergoing a form of mechanized brain surgery.

GENERAL

"Bloodory's distillation?"

DOCTOR

Yes. It has been greatly perfected. The brain is condensed into five ounces

of fluid. Cloning cell samples are included so that a structural duplicate of

the scientist can be reproduced. When the duplicate child reaches the age of

six, he or she begins a series of injections of the brain fluid. By the age

of ten years, they have received all the knowledge and memory of an

experienced scientist: an old mind in a young body. We have prepared a

special shock-belt to carry the vials.

In the background, the limp body of the scholar on the operating table is

removed and another scientist is escorted into the operating threatre. Dr.

Bloodory, a portly doctor in his forties, enters the room and shakes hands

with the general.

DOCTOR

General, this is Doctor Bloodory. He'll be making the trip with you.

BLOODORY

It's an honor to meet you, General. I'm sure I couldn't be in safer hands.

GENERAL

The chrome companies are exacting a high prince indeed. Politics will be the

ruin of us all.

BLOODORY

Careful. If we could rid ourselves of the politicians, generals would no

longer be necessary.

DOCTOR

We should be ready by zero three hundred.

The doctors exit, leaving the general alone to watch the huge machine extract

another brain.

62. SPACEPORT - OBSERVATION DECK - AQUILAE

Governor Hoedaack, General Vader walk down a boarding ramp to an observation

deck overlooking the conquered city of Gordon. They are followed by a number

of aides and officers from the Imperial fleet. Below them air tanks and other

military equipment and supplies are being unloaded.

VADER

Not much of a planet.

HOEDAACK

Darth, you've done well. Do you think you will have the Royal Family by

nightfall?

VADER

An advance expedition is already on its way to their underground hideaway.

They should reach it by nightfall... but only if this Count Sandage can be

trusted.

HOEDAACK

A man hungry for power can always be trusted... to betray those in power. I'm

sure his information is correct.

63. HIDDEN FORTRESS CANYON

The huge rock face of the canyon opens, and two shabby agricultural

landspeeders are pushed into the late afternoon sun. Artwo and Threepio stand

on the far side of the canyon with their guards, watching in amazement. The

general and Captain Starkiller walk behind the men pushing the landspeeders.

GENERAL

We'll take them with us. They know more about that fortress than any ten men.

They will be very useful.

STARKILLER

Can they be trusted?

GENERAL

Loyalty can't be programmed. They can be trusted never to harm a living

creature, and to always give accurate information...as they know it, to anyone

who asks. You just have to remember not to tell them anything that you don't

want to fall into the wrong hands.

The general approaches the two robots. Artwo shyly moves around his taller

companion.

GENERAL

Greetings. I'm Luke: Agricultural Engineering. We're going to be travelling

together. You're going with us to help set up a hortastation on Banth.

Threepio shakes hands with the general.

THREEPIO

I'm Seethreepio: Human Cyborg relations. Your kindness is greatly

appreciated.

Threepio and the general both look down at Artwo. Threepio gives the smaller

android a little kick.

ARTWO

Artwo Detwo: Fusion Repair.

GENERAL (to Starkiller)

Load them into one of the speeders.

Captain Whitsun, walking with a slight limp, emerges from the underground

fortress with the Royal Family. A small group of guards and aides are lined

up, standing at attention. The two young princes, Biggs and Windy, hug and

kiss their mother good-bye, then jump into the back of the larger four-man

speeder. The princess bows before her mother, then embraces her. Tears roll

down her cheeks. Her mother wipes them away.

QUEEN

You must learn strength.

The princess turns and moves to the larger speeder where she is helped aboard

by Captain Starkiller.

PRINCESS (fuming)

I don't need your help, thank you.

She gives the general an angry look.

GENERAL

I'm afraid he's necessary.

A commotion erupts at the mouth of the underground fortress. Count Sandage,

several senators and ten to twelve troopers rush into the canyon and block the

speeders.

SANDAGE

Where are you going? What is this?

In one quick movement the general moves between Sandage and the queen.

Whitsun and Starkiller assume defensive positions in front of the princess and

her brothers.

QUEEN

Leia and the boys are being taken to safety. It is my wish.

SANDAGE

The Empire has assured their safety. They must stay.

QUEEN

It is not my wish....

SANDAGE

General, you've gone too far this time. (to the troops) Arrest him.

Five troops start to move on the general, as Sandage draws his laserpistol.

Before anyone can complete his action, the general ignites his lasersword and

cuts the senator in two. He drops to the ground in a heap, and the

approaching troops stop in their tracks.

QUEEN

Stop this!

The general, Starkiller, and Whitsun replace their swords, and bow low to the

queen. All of the troops, senators, and aides do the same. The formalness of

the occasion is broken when the queen embraces the general. She then turns

and embraces each of the captains. They are both flustered, and somewhat

embarrassed.

QUEEN

May the force of others be with you.

The general and his captains head for the speeders, while the queen and all

the others return to the underground fortress.

64. DESERT BLUFF - AQUILAE

The two speeders edge their way onto a bluff overlooking the hidden fortress

canyon. They stop for one last reflective moment. Forced to leave their

closest friends and relatives, the group is deeply moved. The two robots, for

the most part, are puzzled. Suddenly, there is a huge atomic flash, followed

by a loud rumble, and the entire canyon collapses into a large crater. The

group quietly watches the dust settle. The hidden fortress and all its

inhabitants have been destroyed. The general watches the princess, who

appears to take it well.

GENERAL

It was the only way we could be safe from treachery.

65. DUNE SEA - AQUILAE

The two sleek landspeeders glide effortlessly through the vast hills and

valleys of the dune sea. At the base of the towering dune ridge, the four-man

speeder stops. The smaller speeder, with Starkiller and the two robots, makes

its way to the top of the ridge. Captain Starkiller stops the speeder just

short of the top of the ridge. He gets out and continues the rest of the way

on foot. The young captain peeks over the dune ridge into the canyon below.

Muted sounds and large dust clouds rise from the canyon floor. Starkiller

immediately ducks back behind the ridge with an amazed look on his face. He

quickly returns to the speeder, and picks up the intercom.

STARKILLER

Sir, you'd better take a look at this. But come easy.

The four-man speeder starts with a crack, and slowly moves up the side of the

imposing dune. It stops next to the smaller speeder. The general and Whitsun

get out and make their way to the top of the ridge, where they join

Starkiller. Far in the distance, crossing the endless dune sea, is the

Imperial invasion army. It is immense. A convoy of giant tanks, troop

carriers, and supply ships stretch from horizon to horizon. Cavalry, mounted

on giant dune birds, ride the line from one end of the convoy to the other.

Hundreds of troops ride one-man jet-sticks in precision formation. Their

lances form a giant pin-cushion. It is an awesome sight.

GENERAL SKYWALKER

They're heading toward the fortress.

WHITSUN

What will they do when they find it destroyed?

GENERAL

They won't stop looking for us...They're coming from the spaceport at

Anchorhead, which means they control everything between here and the spaceport

at Gordon.

STARKILLER

Can we go around them?

GENERAL

No. We'll have to wait for them to pass. Starkiller, see if you can monitor

any of their communications on the com-link in the big speeder.

Starkiller returns to the speeder. He collapses in the large speeder next to

the princess, and flips on the com-link radio, moving back and forth across

the dial.

PRINCESS

Must you do that?

Starkiller smiles rather sarcastically.

STARKILLER

Orders...The invasion force has cut us off. We'll probably be here for some

time. You ought to stretch a bit.

PRINCESS

Is that a command, General? Maybe I feel like watching after my brothers.

Starkiller looks back at the two sleeping boys.

STARKILLER

They're not going anywhere. They're asleep.

PRINCESS

I want to stay with them.

STARKILLER

What's the matter? You afraid I might eat them?

66. LIBRARY - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

The king's old library has been converted into an office for General Vader.

He is sitting behind his desk as Prince Valorum, the black knight of Sith,

enters and salutes. The black knight is dressed in the fascist black and

chrome uniform of the legendary Sith One Hundred. The general returns his

salute.

VADER

Welcome, Prince Valorum. Your exploits are legendary. I have long waited to

meet a Knight of the Sith. If there is any way I can assist you, my entire

command is at your bidding.

VALORUM

I want a tie-in to your computer network, a control center, and communication

access.

VADER

Right away! I'll also transfer all information we have on the general. His

command post was self-destroyed, but we believe he is still alive.... Do you

really believe he's a Jedi?

VALORUM

If he was not a Jedi, I wouldn't be here.

67. WASTELAND - AQUILAE

The speeders make their way across the grey desert. It is dawn. The twin

suns have yet to rise over the distant hills. The speeders are coated with

dust and grime, indicating that they have travelled far. The two captains

drive through the night as everyone else sleeps. Starkiller calls Whitsun on

the intercom.

STARKILLER

How are your fuel packs? I'm reading minus four.

WHITSUN

I'm too low to transfer any.

The general, who appeared to be asleep, opens his eyes, and takes the

microphone from Whitsun.

GENERAL

There is a fuel station fourteen degrees by two meters. The occupation force

should have control of it by now, so hide your weapons...but keep them within

reach.

68. FUEL STATION - AQUILAE

A series of low concrete structures rise out of the desert. The speeders stop

in front of an old weather-beaten block house. The rusted hulk of a

landspeeder lies half-buried to one side of the building. Starkiller and

Whitsun jump out of the speeder and go into the block house.

69. INTERIOR - FUEL STATION - AQUILAE

The two young captains, dressed as farmers, enter the dingy little fuel

station. It is quiet. A few power packs line the walls and a dismantled

speeder rests in the repair bay. There is a sharp dripping sound coming from

the speeder. It appears that no-one is there.

STARKILLER

Greetings! ... Who's in charge here?

They look around the deserted station, but find no attendant. An eerie quiet

pervades the building.

WHITSUN

I don't get it...

STARKILLER

You don't have to. It's abandoned.

Whitsun opens a door leading to a storage area, and stops short.

WHITSUN

Not quite abandoned...

Starkiller moves to the doorway and sees the attendant, his wife, and small

daughter hanging upside down, tortured to death. Whitsun cuts them down.

WHITSUN

They shouldn't have resisted.

Starkiller grabs two power packs from the shelf.

STARKILLER

Help me with these power packs. We'd better move out of here.

Whitsun covers the family with an old work tarp. He bows to the dead, then

reluctantly grabs a couple of power packs and they start for the door.

Whitsun stops for a moment.

WHITSUN

Hear that? Someone's here. (yelling) We're friends. Show yourself.

Silence. Whitsun shrugs his shoulders and they start out the door, only to

run straight into a burly stormtrooper.

STORMTROOPER

Get out of here!

70. FUEL STATION - AQUILAE

Whitsun and Starkiller are pulled out of the doorway and shoved into the

center of a group of fifteen or twenty Imperial stormtroopers who have

surrounded the two speeders. Several troops have pulled General Skywalker out

of the speeder. He acts senile, like a man twice his age.

GENERAL SKYWALKER

I'm all right. I can still move about by myself.

A rough looking sergeant grabs Whitsun.

SERGEANT

What are you doing here?

WHITSUN

We're out of power, sir.

SERGEANT

Let me see your travel passes!

WHITSUN

I have it here, somewhere. We've been relocated...to a Bantha hortastation,

by Imperial order...

Whitsun fumbles to retrieve something from his pocket, and eventually pulls

out a small, round disc. The sergeant puts the disc in a small portable

reader. Various computer readouts are displayed on the monitor. Starkiller

starts to put a power pack into one of the speeders.

SERGEANT

What are you doing there? All power has been restricted.

GENERAL SKYWALKER

We've run out. We must have power, or be forced to stay here....and become

your responsibilities.

The sergeant thinks about this for a moment, as the old, wise general watches

him. Tension fills the air. Starkiller shuffles around to a position where

he can reach his weapon. A trooper hands the sergeant a message.

SERGEANT (to Whitsun)

Take only two of those power packs, and then move out quickly.

The sergeant hurries to a military craft, where he takes a call on an

intercom. General Skywalker and his two young captains load the remaining

power packs into the speeder, and roar away from the station.

71. WASTELAND - AQUILAE

The speeders race along through the rocky desert wasteland. The general

speaks into the intercom to Starkiller.

GENERAL

Keep a close watch. If that sergeant runs an analysis on those passes, we

might be seeing him again...We should be safely inside Gordon within the day.

Everyone is in good spirits. The princess and her young brothers sing an

Aquilaean melody, which is transmitted to Starkiller in the smaller speeder.

The general takes little Windy, and lets him sit on his lap in the forward

compartment of the speeder. Artwo flexes Threepio's arm back and forth,

attempting to discover the cause of a loud squeak.

ARTWO

Z-2 doesn't seem to help at all.

THREEPIO

It's all this filth and dust. This environment is murderous.

Starkiller notices a small speck on the horizon.

STARKILLER (into intercom)

Object approaching, bearing three point two.

The general looks through an electrotelescope mounted in the speeder. He

spots a distant row of troopers riding strange dune birds.

GENERAL (to Starkiller)

It's a patrol. It could mean trouble. We'd better split up. You stay on a

direct course. We'll meet you at the western edge of ravine 23-64. Stay in

contact.

The larger speeder makes a sharp left turn, speeding off across a deep ravine.

Starkiller can begin to distinguish the approaching troopers.

STARKILLER

It looks like there's ten of them. They're heading right for me.... Wait a

second. They've disappeared! I've lost them.

GENERAL

Continue on.

73. WASTELAND LAKEBED - AQUILAE

Whitsun deftly maneuvers the bulky speeder through a narrow, boulder strewn

ravine. They eventually come out on a dry lake bed, where they stop.

Standing not more than a hundred feet away, apparantly waiting for the

speeder, are five Imperial troops on their dune birds.

GENERAL

We've found them, five of them, anyway...Watch yourself.

The troops slowly ride their huge birds over to the speeder, and dismount.

The officer in charge is a vicious looking warrior, with a large scar across

his face.

OFFICER

Let me see your passes.

Whitsun hands him the small pass disc, and he places it in his reader. He

studies the computer readout for a few moments, and then returns the disc to

Whitsun.

OFFICER

Have you seen any other transports in this area?

GENERAL SKYWALKER

We saw two heading south. Goin' toward Ansel, look like to me.

OFFICER

All right. Be on your way.

The officer mounts his dune bird, and the patrol moves away. Whitsun winks at

the princess, and smiles at the general, as the speeder starts off across the

dry lake. The general fiddles with the intercom.

GENERAL

S-2, are you clear?

STARKILLER

I have five troopers approaching. Any problems on your end?

GENERAL

We came through all right. You shouldn't have any trouble, but stay alert.

STARKILLER

Best wishes....Here they come.

Everyone rides along in silence, a little worried about Starkiller, especially

the princess.

PRINCESS

..Do you think he'll be all right?

GENERAL

He can take care of himself.

Biggs is looking out the back window of the speeder.

BIGGS

Hey look! They're coming back.

Everyone looks to see the patrol quickly gaining on them.

GENERAL

Stop! They're faster. Get your weapon.

The speeder screeches to a halt in a cloud of dust. The general and his

captain jump from the transport with laserpistols drawn. The patrol bears

down on them, swords drawn, at full charge. Both the general and Whitsun

fire. Two of the troopers and their Dune birds explode in a cloud of smoke.

The remaining three troopers are upon the duo in a matter of seconds. The

general ignites his lasersword and cuts down two of the troops as they pass.

The last turns his bird around before reaching the speeder, and hightails it

back toward the ravine. The general jumps onto one of the riderless dune

birds and takes off in pursuit. Whitsun checks the dead troopers.

73. WASTELAND RAVINE - AQUILAE

The general rides at breakneck speed after the fleeing trooper. His

lasersword is raised high over his head, ready to deal a death blow. The

lumbering birds race through the winding ravine.

74. WASTELAND RAVINE - AQUILAE

The intercom warning buzzer begins to scream. Whitsun rushes for it, but the

princess gets there first.

PRINCESS

Are you all right?

STARKILLER

Two riders heading your way. I got three, but two got away. Watch

yourselves!

75. WASTELAND RAVINE - AQUILAE

The general is riding neck and neck with the trooper. He swiftly brings his

sword down and the trooper drops from his saddle. The momentum of his charge

carries the general around a bend in the ravine, and right in the path of two

more troops charging down on him. The two troopers are taken by surprise.

They stop their birds, and so does the general. They stand there, about fifty

yards apart, sizing up each other. Suddenly, the two troopers start for the

Jedi at full speed. The general raises his sword, and starts for them. The

troopers are no match for the general, who kills them both before they are

even able to swing their swords.

76. WASTELAND LAKEBED - AQUILAE

Starkiller stops near the larger landspeeder and gets out. He is wounded.

Blood streams from his left arm. Whitsun rushes to help him. The princess

shows a great deal of concern.

WHITSUN

It looks worse than it is. You'll be all right.

Whitsun motions to the princess, who looks a little relieved.

WHITSUN

Bring me the med aid pack.

PRINCESS

It he was clumsy enough to get hurt, maybe we ought to let him bleed to death.

She hands Whitsun the kit, as the general rides up and dismounts. He moves to

Starkiller.

GENERAL

You missed two.

STARKILLER

I know, I couldn't...

GENERAL

Don't let it happen again. We'd better move out. They might have reported

in.

77. CONTROL ROOM - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

The dark and sinister Valorum moves several markers on a large map readout to

form a line from the destroyed underground fortress to the spaceport at

Gordon. An aide enters with General Vader.

AIDE

The patrol was lost, Sir. All ten of them.

VALORUM

It's to be expected.

VADER

Have you found them?

VALORUM

They're heading for the spaceport at Gordon. I'm going there. Have all

security doubled. Make it an alert.

78. THE OUTSKIRTS OF GORDON - AQUILAE

The speeders stop on a bluff overlooking a small cantina on the outskirts of

Gordon. The spaceport can be seen in the distance. The general and Captain

Whitsun walk over to the smaller speeder. Starkiller helps the two androids

out of their cramped quarters.

THREEPIO

Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

STARKILLER (to general)

I'm fit enough to...

The general gives him a hard look and he shuts up. Whitsun and the general

climb into the speeder.

GENERAL

We'll make contact at zero four hundred. If we're not back by fifty-five

forty, get worried.

The speeder starts off toward the cantina.

79. SPACEPORT CANTINA - AQUILAE

The speeder pulls up in front of the low, blockhouse style cantina. Various

strange forms of transport are parked outside the bar.

GENERAL

Take care here. If there is any trouble, get back to the others.

The general and Whitsun enter the shabby cantina. The murky little den is

filled with a startling array of weird and exotic alien creatures, laughing at

the bar. At first, the sight is horrifying. One-eyed, thousand-eyed, slimy,

furry, scaling arms, tentacles, and claws huddle over drinks. The general

looks over the patrons, but does not see the contact, Han Solo. A large

multiple eyed creature shoves the general.

CREATURE

Assha dughi wouldugga?

The general tries to ignore the creature, and turns back to his drink. A

short, grubby looking human, and an even smaller rodent-like creature join the

first creature.

HUMAN

He doesn't like you.

GENERAL

I understood him.

HUMAN

I don't like you either.

GENERAL

I'm sorry.

The big creature is getting agitated, and yells at the general.

HUMAN

Don't insult us. You just watch yourself. We're wanted men. I have the

death sentence on twelve Systems.

GENERAL

I'll be careful then.

HUMAN

You'll be dead.

The short rodent yells something, and everything at the bar moves away. The

general assumes a defensive position. His three adversaries ready their

weapons.

GENERAL

You insist on a fight then.

HUMAN

Just try and kill us.

GENERAL

It will hurt a little.

HUMAN

We aren't cowards.

GENERAL

Then it can't be helped.

The general's lasersword sparks to life. An arm lies on the floor. The

rodent is cut in two, and the large, multiple-eyed creature lies doubled, cut

from chin to groin. The general, with quiet dignity, replaces his sword in

its sheath. The entire fight has lasted only a matter of seconds. A figure

stands in the doorway watching the general. As soon as the general notices

him, he leaves. The cantina goes back to normal, as if nothing had happened,

although the general is given a respectable amount of room at the bar. The

Jedi finishes his drink, and then leaves. Captain Whitsun follows.

80. SPACEPORT ALLEYWAY - GORDON - AQUILAE

General Skywalker embraces Han Solo, the underground contact. Han is a huge,

green skinned monster with no nose and large gills.

HAN

You old stardog. Took a war to get you out here...

Whitsun arrives with Starkiller, the princess and her brothers, and the two

puzzled androids.

GENERAL

It's been too long. We've been through much together. It will be good to

have you out of retirement and back at my side. How is Starkiller? (putting

his arm around the young Captain Starkiller) This is his son.

HAN

You're all the old boy will talk about. He's still holding up. Come, let's

get off the street.

The group enters a small doorway at the far end of the alleyway. On the main

street, within view of the doorway, giant Imperial air tanks and other

military hardware rumble through the city. Starving refugees sit in the

gutters watching the immense display of force with a mixture of awe and

terror. The princess stops for a moment, and stares at her people, watching

the might of the Empire. The general escorts her through the doorway with the

others.

81. SLUM DWELLING - LIVING AREA - AQUILAE

The seedy dwelling is dark and dingy. The group is greeted by three

underground leaders, and the old Jedi, Kane Starkiller. Captain Starkiller

embraces his father as the underground leaders bow before the princess.

82. SLUM DWELLING - DINING AREA - AQUILAE

The princess walks through the dining area followed by Whitsun and Starkiller,

who carry the two sleeping princes. The general sits at a large table

finishing dinner with Han, Kane and the three underground leaders. Whitsun

returns from the bedroom.

GENERAL (to Whitsun)

Captain, why don't you take the androids into the other room for a game of

chess? ... I'm sure they'd enjoy it.

THREEPIO

A wonderful idea. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

Whitsun escorts the two robots into the next room. Datos, a thin, wizened old

man, seems greatly relieved.

DATOS

You're taking a great risk travelling with them. This whole operation sounds

bad to me. I don't trust the chrome companies. Time is growing short. The

Empire's attempts at control have already caused a great deal of suffering to

our people.

Occo, a brash young rebel, about the same age as Captain Starkiller, slams his

fist on the table.

OCCO

It must happen now! We are ready! Each day the Imperial S.B.T. finds and

destroys a few more in the organization. We cannot wait any longer.

GENERAL

Any uprising without a coordinated attack on the death star is out of the

question.

HAN

He's right. As long as it's operational, any action down here would be

meaningless. We must proceed as planned. Are the arrangements secure?

Quist, the third member of the underground, sparks to life, and places several

discs and badges on the table.

QUIST

All passenger transport has been suspended, so we've arranged for you to

travel as the crew of a Baltarian freighter. The boys will have to be placed

in suspended animation and hidden in shielded micro-packs. It's the only way

we will be able to get them past the scanners.

DATOS

Were you able to acquire the necessary power packs?

QUIST

It's become a serious problem. All power supplies have been restricted. S-4

units are impossible to come by.

HAN

I know an agent who might be able to acquire them for us. I'll check with

him. It will be risky, but we've no other choice.

83. SPACEPORT OBSERVATION DECK - AQUILAE

The dark figure of Valorum stands overlooking a group of Aquilaean partisans

who are being tortured in the plaza below. Two Imperial officers are

finishing a report to the black knight. They salute smartly, then leave the

observation balcony, passing Kuro, one of General Vader's aides, who

approaches Valorum, and bows low before him. Kuro and the black knight carry

on an animated conversation; it is inaudible over the screams of the tortured

partisans.

84. SLUM DWELLING - ALLEYWAY - AQUILAE

Residents glance fearfully from their windows as six Imperial stormtroopers

make their way through the crowded slum alleyway. Han Solo and Captain

Starkiller move cautiously past the Imperial patrol, and disappear into the

shabby hideout of the partisan underground.

85. SLUM DWELLING - MAIN AREA - AQUILAE

The two men enter the dingy main room of the slum dwelling, and are

immediately attacked by Biggs, wielding a toy sword. Starkiller good-

naturedly fends off the young prince, as Han in a more serious mood, goes into

the other room. Artwo and Threepio are helping Windy put together a block-

like puzzle. Princess Leia comes in to see what all the commotion is about,

just as the young captain grabs Biggs by the foot and holds him upside-down.

Starkiller and Biggs are laughing uproariously. Leia gives the captain a

stern, disapproving look, then returns to the other room.

86. SLUM DWELLING - DINING AREA - AQUILAE

General Skywalker, Captain Whitsun, and Datos are in the process of assembling

two micro-packs on the kitchen table. Han pulls a small silver powerpack from

his pocket, and places it on the table. The old Jedi, Kane Starkiller,

reaches over with his one good arm and takes it. He inspects it carefully.

Princess Leia sits quietly behind the general.

HAN

We could only get one unit. The Empire's methods are proving to be very

effective.

Kane places the power-pack back on the table. The pain from those simple

movements shows on his face.

KANE

This will work fine.

HAN

One of the boys will have to stay.

DATOS

We can't hide him for very long....The risk is too great! Whichever boy

doesn't go must be destroyed.

The princess is alarmed, and looks to the general for support. He gives her

an understanding look.

GENERAL

Not while they're in my charge. Find another way to get him through.

DATOS

There's no other way. We've analyzed every possible alternative. You can't

jeopardize the enitre...

Captain Starkiller enters the room.

HAN

We have no time for discussion. The freighters leave at zero three hundred.

We must get started.

Through a break in the door, Whitsun watches Artwo and Threepio play with the

two young princes.

WHITSUN

What about Artwo? Could we lobotomize him, and use his energy pack?

GENERAL

They're not compatible. We'd have to completely change the system...

HAN

It could work.

DATOS

There isn't enough time. You can't do it...

KANE

You won't have to. My power unit has more than half life.... Use it.

The withered Jedi opens his tunic revealing a metallic chest covered with

electrodes. With his one good arm, he grabs his chest and rips loose and

miniature power unit similar to the one on the table. Everyone is taken by

surprise. The general and the young Starkiller both rush to the side of the

dying Jedi. The old man turns to his son.

KANE

Trust my judgment, Son. Serve your new teacher well.

The Jedi's breathing becomes more difficult as he turns to the general.

KANE (con't)

An honorable death, my friend. May the force of others be with you....

Kane Starkiller passes on to the other world. Everyone is stunned. The

general breaks the moment of silence.

GENERAL

May he be welcomed as a man above men. Take him downstairs.

Starkiller takes his father in his arms and is followed out of the room by Han

and Datos.

GENERAL

Prepare the boys! We have little time.

Princess Leia and Captain Whitsun rush out of the room, as the general places

the power units in the micro-packs.

87. SLUM DWELLING - MAIN AREA - AQUILAE

Biggs and Windy are not happy about being dragged away from their puzzle.

Whitsun takes the robots into the sleep area.

LEIA

Now straighten up, Biggs. Remember, father expects you to follow his ways.

We are going on a trip. There will be great danger. You must go to sleep.

When you wake, you will be in a strange land, so don't be alarmed.

BIGGS

Are you going to sleep too?

LEIA

I will be looking after you. Now be good boys and stand still. Lift your

sleeve.

Windy lifts his sleeze and Leia injects him with a sleep serum. Whitsun

enters just as the little prince collapses into a deep sleep. Quick as

lightning, he catches the boy before he can hit the floor. The princess

injects her other brother, and he collapses into her arms.

88. SLUM DWELLING - DINING AREA - AQUILAE

The limp bodies of the two young princes are carried in by Leia and Captain

Whitsun. They are carefully squeezed into the hollowed out micro-cases. Leia

pensively watches as the general expertly attaches electrodes to her brother's

skull. Han and Datos return from the burial of Kane. The general looks up

from his operation.

HAN

He is at rest. The Empire will never find him. Are the systems working all

right?

GENERAL

Full power...Is everything ready?

Datos nods yes, as the general closes the case holding Biggs. The strain of

watching her brothers placed in suspended animation is too great for Leia, and

she retreats into the main room.

89. SLUM DWELLING - MAIN ROOM - AQUILAE

Captain Starkiller stands brooding near a window overlooking the crowded

alleyway. He does not acknowledge Leia's entrance. She walks over to the

window, and stands next to the young captain. They are very close, but do not

touch.

LEIA

I'm sorry.

He does not respond. She is moved by his sorrow, and starts to touch the side

of his face, but can't bring herself to do it. Her royal training is too

strong to let her show her true affection for Starkiller. She breaks down and

runs from the room. The young Jedi continues his meditation.

90. SPACEPORT AT GORDON - SECURITY RAMP - AQUILAE

The spaceport is very crowded. People rush about in a panicked rush as

loudspeakers blurt out indiscernible announcements. The Empire is in the

process of changing the boarding procedures and the result is chaos. Many

flights are delayed, and people are running to and fro, switching boarding

ramps. Han guides the rebel group, dressed as a Baltarian crew, through the

crowded terminal. Whitsun and Starkiller carry the large micro-packs strapped

to their backs. The robots follow a few paces behind.

HAN

They're changing the boarding procedures. I don't like it.

They are swept into a boarding gate and finally reach a security ramp scan

station. There are a great number of troops and guards standing around the

security area. An officer demands to see their passes and orders. The

tension builds as the officer confers with an aide about the passes. The aide

speaks quietly into a phone.

OFFICER

Where are your component receipts?

Starkiller and Whitsun hand the officer two additional discs which are placed

in the computer. A few moments later, the readout appears, and the group is

motioned through the electron scanners. On the other side of the scanner, new

computer discs are issued to the group. Everyone seems slightly relieved as

they walk through several hallways leading to where the freighter is docked.

Starkiller moves next to the general.

STARKILLER

I don't like the feel of this.

GENERAL

Your senses are strong. It's a very small disruption.

STARKILLER

It's a Knight of the Sith.

GENERAL

Possibly. Stay alert...Warn the others.

The group walks through the docking links and into the Baltarian spacecraft.

Several Imperial guards pass them, and everyone is ready for the suspected

trap, but nothing happens..

91. INTERIOR - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

The group stops in a narrow electronics passageway near the bridge of the

ship. Starkiller and Whitsun unstrap the micro-packs containing the two young

princes, and check the voltage packs.

WHITSUN

Little Biggs is losing power faster than normal. I'd better check it out.

GENERAL

Wait until the situation is secure. Stay here, and keep on your guard....Han!

The two young captains grow suspicious of several workmen gathering around the

main exit hatch. Han and the general enter the bridge area. Several crewmen

sit at elaborate controls and computer stations.

GENERAL

Where is your captain?

One of the crewmen directs him to a small chamber above the bridge.

Starkiller and Whitsun strap on their micropacks as more workmen converge at

the main hatch and begin to close it. The two robots, Artwo and Threepio are

confused about what is going on, and wear their gear in anticipation of

moving.

92. PILOT CHAMBER - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

Han and the general enter the small pilot's chamber and greet the captain,

whose face is hidden in the shadows of a computer bank.

CAPTAIN

Welcome, gentlemen. You must have had a difficult journey. We'll be

departing shortly....

[p. 77 is all screwed up. I attempt to interpret here:]

[Four Imperial tr]oopers silently enter the room behind the two [??] Their

laserswords are drawn.

CAPTAIN (con't)

[?] I have been authorized to accept payment [?] the chrome company

cooperation. I [?] you've brought it with you.

[?] moves out of the shadows, and is revealed to [be Valorum, F]irst Knight of

the Sith. Instantly, both Han and [the general] understand the situation.

They turn, drawing their [laserswords? ?] the move, and cut down the four

Imperial troopers. [?] chamber instantly seals shut. Valorum hasn't [?] and

remains unusually calm. The two Jedi turn [?]

VALORUM

[?] over, gentlemen. The chamber is sealed. [?] force me to release the Jai

gas...

[?] and the black knight turns to an intercom.

INTERCOM

[?]ion secure. Prisoners taken to hold "B,"... [?] casualties.... gas was

necessary.

[?]eral relax and drop their weapons. The door [?] behind them and six guards

enter wearing face-[?]nd the two Jedi with chrome microcuffs. A [?] creeps

across Valorum's face. General [?] unimpressed with the knightly trap.

VALORUM

[?] it's ended. (to guard) Take them [?] "G." I don't want them with the

others. [?] for departure.

[?esc]ort Han and the general out of the chamber [?] hallways.

[?93. INTERIOR - BALTA]RIAN FREIGHTERS - AQUILAE

[?]ch Han and the general into the hold of the [?] near the main exit where

Artwo and Threepio [?] looking lost. Threepio sees the general pass [?]ay.

THREEPIO

[?]ere he is. Come on.

[end of p. 77]

The robots waddle off after the Jedi prisoners. As the small procession

passes detention cell B where the princess and the others are being held, Han

and the general let out a horrifying Jedi scream, and leap to the corridor

ceiling, thrusting their bound wrists into the lighting fixtures. They land

on top of the troops, instantly breaking the necks of four guards, with

expertly placed Jedi blows. The eight surviving guards are momentarily

dumbfounded. Han and the general grab laserswords from their victims, and

swiftly cut down the remaining troops. Han grabs a small card from one of the

dead guards, and starts for detention cell B.

GENERAL

Watch it! Those are cutters.

The general grabs one of the dead troopers and tosses him against the cell

door. Red rays engulf the body, and holds it there. Han then places the card

in a slot, and the door silently slides open. Starkiller and Whitsun leap for

the dead guard, then notice the death ray surrounding him. General Skywalker

grabs another body and throws it into the doorway.

GENERAL

Pass between them!

Starkiller squeezes between the slain guards, and is untouched by the rays.

Whitsun and the princess quickly follow, picking up weapons as they leave.

STARKILLER

They've taken the cases.

GENERAL

Are they aware of the boys?

WHITSUN

I don't think so.

GENERAL

Find them! Use your seeker. We'll meet you at the main hatch. Watch

yourselves. If an alarm is given, they'll gas the entire ship.

WHITSUN

Yes, Sir.

Whitsun and Starkiller each take a small humming device from their utility

belts and head down a narrow hallway. The general, Han and the princess

continue toward the main hatch. Artwo and Threepio have been completely

confused by the turn of events. They eventually follow the general toward the

exit hatch.

94. ELECTROCLOSET HALLWAY - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

The two young captains reach a storage area of the huge spacecraft. They

watch their seekers as they move along a row of electroclosets. They quietly

sneak past a group of workmen assembling a large gyro-housing. A second row

of micro-packs is searched to no avail.

WHITSUN

If they were discovered, they would have been sent to a medical station.

STARKILLER

There are more storage areas on the far side.

95. MAIN HATCH AREA - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

Han and the general reach the main hatch, closely followed by Leia and the two

robots. Several lights over the hatch flash on and off. The general cuts a

camera off the wall with his lasersword.

HAN

They're going to take off....It's too late.

GENERAL

Threepio! Come over here.

The lanky chrome man approaches the general, who is studying a complex

computer control panel next to the hatch.

THREEPIO

Yes Sir. May I be of service?

GENERAL

Get this hatch open. Counterlock the departure pattern.

The robot immediately starts pushing buttons on the panel.

96. ELECTROCLOSET HALLWAY - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

Starkiller and Whitsun reach a second series of electroclosets. A signal

appears on the seekers, and Starkiller cuts down the door of one of the small

cabinets. Whitsun stands guard. Approaching troops are heard in the

distance. Starkiller quickly rummages through the electropacks until he spots

the familiar cases containing the two boys.

WHITSUN

Troops!

Starkiller straps on one of the back packs, and hands the other to Whitsun, as

they duck into a narrow passageway. Four troops march through a nearby

hallway. After they have passed, the young captain checks to make sure the

way is clear, then runs down a hallway toward the main hatch.

97. BRIDGE - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

As the crew makes the final preparations for the blast off, the main hatch

light blinks on. One of the pilots notices the light and begins to check it

out.

PILOT (into intercom)

Is the main hatch secure?

98. MAIN HATCH - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

The intercom sparks to life, and the general answers it.

GENERAL

Everything looks secure, but give me a minute to check it out.

PILOT

All right... Stand by.

The general gives a wink to Han, as Threepio continues his attempt to override

the hatch computer.

99. HALLWAYS - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

Starkiller and Whitsun cautiously move down a long hallway, ever watchful of

Imperial troops. They reach an intersection, carefully check in all

directions, then rush down a main hallway. They are about half way down the

hallway, when a squad of Imperial guards appears at the end of the hallway,

facing them. The troops start toward the two captains with lowered

laserrifles.

STARKILLER

Here's where it gets tricky.

Starkiller, then Whitsun, quickly and smoothly draw their laserpistols and

fire at the troops. A giant explosion destroys the far end of the hallway. A

few laserbolts are returned, but streak harmlessly overhead, and explode out

of range. The exchange of gunfire lasts only a few moments. When the smoke

clears, the troops have been destroyed.

100. MAIN HATCH - BALTARIAN FREIGHTER - AQUILAE

The main hatch slowly begins to slide open, when the rumbling explosion of

laserfire echoes through the hallways. Han looks to the general, and they

both instantly realize what has happened. Han draws his weapons. The hatch

is now fully open. Everyone stands silently, watching for the two captains.

Alarms start screaming throughout the ship, and the giant hatch slowly begins

to close.

GENERAL

Come on. We can't wait.

The group reluctantly exits the spacecraft, giving one last look back to their

lost friends. The hatch continues to close slowly as the alarm sirens wail.

Suddenly, Starkiller and Whitsun round a corner and head for the ever-closing

hatch; battling several Imperial stormtroopers as they go. Han and the

general move up to the hatch and give cover fire. Whitsun slips through the

shrinking opening, and yells to Starkiller to hurry. Many more troops bear

down on the young Jedi as he squeezes through the very slim opening. One of

the troops dives after him, but is caught, and crushed by the emergency hatch.

101. BOARDING RAMPS - GORDON SPACEPORT - AQUILAE

The general leads the group through various corridors.

HAN

Once the alarm sounds, the entire spaceport will shut down.

They stop at a junction. At the far end of one hallway, several troops guard

a restricted passageway.

GENERAL

That's the military section.

STARKILLER

Fighter craft!

HAN

But it's very heavily guarded. We can't take it with subtlety.

Before the general can answer, the acute scream of the spaceport alarm

reverberates through the corridors. The general, followed by his two young

captains, charge toward the heavily guarded military passageway. Han, with

the princess and two robots, follow a safe distance behind. A guard sees them

coming, and orders them to stop. Starkiller and the general fire their

laserpistols at the passageway entrance and the troops disappear in a huge

explosion.

The group jumps over the dead guards and smoking rubble, then runs through a

series of hallways leading to a starship. They stop just short of an

intersection leading to a boarding ramp. Starkiller peeks around a corner at

two guards standing in front of the boarding ramp.

STARKILLER

Cutters! We'll have to draw them out...A blast might alert the crew.

GENERAL

Artwo! Come here.

The little robot waddles over to the old Jedi.

GENERAL (con't)

Move to that intersection and sound the alarm.

The mechanical dwarf dutifully marches into the intersection and lets out a

high, electronic scream. The guards shut off the deadly laser "cutters," and

cautiously approach the wailing robot.

GUARD

What is it? What's wrong?

With incredible speed, both guards are dropped by a few precision blows from

the two young captains. They immediately drag the unconscious guards into the

starship.

GENERAL

Starkiller! Whitsun! Stand guard. I'll signal at take-off minus

thirty...And reverse that cutter!

102. INTERIOR - IMPERIAL STARSHIP - AQUILAE

Han and the general, followed by Leia and the robots, enter the Imperial

starship. They rush through several narrow hallways leading to the bridge.

Two crew members leaving a control station, stumble into the group and are

quickly dispatched by Han. The princess waits with the robots, as the general

and Han enter the bridge. The two pilots and navigator are taken by surprise

and promptly are subdued. Han switches on the intercom and listens.

HAN

How are we going to get them to open the silo cover?

GENERAL

Send Threepio in here. Dispose of any crewmen left on board.

103. BOARDING RAMP - SPACEPORT - AQUILAE

Starkiller and Whitsun now wear the uniform of the Imperial guard. Whitsun

has removed a plate from the "cutter" machinism and is crossing a few wires.

He replaces the "cutter" plate just as a squad of stormtroopers rushes toward

the door. An officer salutes them.

OFFICER

Have you seen them?

STARKILLER

No, Sir.

OFFICER

They're in this section somewhere. I'm doubling all the guards. Stay alert.

Two guards take up positions just outside the "cutter" areas, and the squad

moves on to another starship. Starkiller gives his partner a philosophical

look.

104. INTERIOR - IMPERIAL STARSHIP - AQUILAE

The gleaming chrome Threepio sits in the pilot's seat, talking on the intercom

to a controller. He breaks off his continual drone of take-off instructions

to the controller and turns to the general, shaking his head.

THREEPIO

They won't buy it. I think they're getting suspicious.

Han enters.

HAN

The crew is taken care of.

GENERAL

Well, they're not going to open the silo cover, so I'm afraid we'll have to

take it with us.

HAN

We're going to sustain considerable damage if we blast off through that cover.

GENERAL

It's a thin shell. There is no choice. (to Threepio) Signal the boys.

105. BOARDING RAMPS - SPACEPORT - AQUILAE

Warning lights flash and the main hatch to the starfighter slowly begins to

close. The two Imperial stormtroopers yell at Starkiller and Whitsun.

STORMTROOPER

Watch it! Don't fire into those cutters! (to Starkiller) Shut down the

cutters!

The two captains pretend to be confused, and not understand. At the last

minute, they leap aboard the starship. The hatch slides closed, and the

boarding ramp drops away. Several more guards arrive, and give the troopers a

special card, which turns the small cutter warning lights from red to green.

The guards rush onto the boarding ramp and are wiped out by the reversed

"cutters."

106. INTERIOR - STARSHIPS - AQUILAE

Everyone straps himself into the lifepods. Threepio and the general troddle

forward, and the giant ship shudders as it starts to lift off the launch pad.

With tense expressions, everyone braces for the impact of the silo cover.

107. STARSHIP - SPACEPORT SILO - AQUILAE

The mighty starship thunders out of the silo, crashing through the cover

plate, sending shrapnel in all directions. The ship leaps toward the heavens.

108. BOARDING CAMPS - SPACEPORT - AQUILAE

Imperial flight crews rush to their starships. Pilots receive their

clearances, and several giant silo covers swing away, revealing deadly hunter-

destroyer spaceships.

109. INTERIOR - BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

Han and the general watch as five hunter-destroyers leave the spaceport at

Gordon.

GENERAL

We suffered light damage to a deflector fin. It will take them quite a while

to catch up with us now. Tell the boys to get some rest.

110. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

Han retreats to the aft section of the ship, where the two captains are

checking out the two main lasercannons mounted in large rotating bubble

turrets.

HAN

The old boy says you two should get some rest... You've got some time before

they catch up to us.

Han notices the packs containing the young princes.

HAN (con't)

Better store the boys in a lifepod. Secure them well.

He heads back toward the bridge, followed by Whitsun. Starkiller carries the

two micro-packs to a lifepod, and straps them in. He checks Biggs' energy

supply. It is low. Leia approaches him.

LEIA

Couldn't we let them out now?

STARKILLER

It's better this way. Things are going to get rough...

LEIA

Will we make it? Is there any hope? Stay with me. [something deleted?]... I

love you.

Starkiller is slightly shocked at this outburst. The princess starts to cry

and clings to him for support.

STARKILLER

No-one is going to die...so stop acting like a child, and start behaving like

a queen. What is this silly talk of love? You belong to the people of

Aquilae, and my job is to return you to them, nothing more. Now straighten up

and get into a lifepod.

She's deeply hurt by his callousness. She breaks away from him and runs down

a hallway into a lifepod. He is tired, and angry at the whole incident.

111. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

Threepio guides the starship toward the Ophuchi system. The general watches

the computer readout estimate the position of the Imperial hunter destroyers.

THREEPIO

Hostile craft will intercept at thirty plus.

GENERAL

What's the nearest star System?

THREEPIO

Yavin.

GENERAL

Set a course... Maybe we can lose them among the Systems.

112. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

Starkiller rests in one of the lasercannon pod bays. He is thinking about

Leia. Slowly a smile creeps across his face. He makes a decision, jumps up,

and hurries down a hallway. He taps on the lifepod bulkhead, and Whitsun

opens the door. Starkiller is surprised.

WHITSUN

What is it?

STARKILLER

Where is Leia?

WHITSUN

She went forward.... What's going on with you two?

STARKILLER

We're in love. She loves me, and I just realized,... I love her.

WHITSUN

[something whited out] You're asking for trouble... She's a queen... You're a

warrior....Do you know what you're saying?

STARKILLER

I don't care... I've got to talk...

Whitsun just shakes his head, but before Starkiller can finish his sentence,

the ship is rocked by a bombardment of proton torpedoes. The intercom squawks

to life.

GENERAL (over intercom)

Get to those guns!

Starkiller and Whitsun rush to the lasercannons, and jump into the protective

suits and helmets.

113. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

Han enters the bridge and sits before a fire control center. The general sits

in a chair, slightly behind and above Threepio, directing the robot pilot.

GENERAL

Turn around! Let's face them.

Artwo, sitting quietly in a corner, watches as Threepio punches new

information into the computer and the giant starship swings around in a sharp

circle. Several torpedoes explode near the ship. The general switches on the

intercom.

GENERAL

Your boys ready?

114. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

The captains adjust the lasercannon controls in front of them and check in

with the general.

GENERAL

They should be within range in twelve seconds...

Starkiller adjusts his giant laser ack-ack cannon, searching his electronic

tracking screen for the hunter destroyer. Whitsun is having a problem with

one of the rotating mechanisms on the huge gun. He curses, climbs out of the

chair, and attempts to fix it.

WHITSUN

My vertical rotating circuits are out...

The princess straps herself into a small lifepod. [something whited out]

Only the slightest hint of concern or worry shows in her face. She listens to

her protectors relay instructions as the enemy approaches.

115. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

The starship shudders as the hunter-destroyers open fire. Han relays the

ship's status to the general, as Threepio struggles to keep up with the

barrage of orders.

HAN

We're losing deflectors three thirty one and ten forty two...

GENERAL (to Threepio)

Cut hard to maridian nine zero six. Level to three degrees...(into the

intercom) We're coming under one. Wait for my signal!

116. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

The constant flashing of deflected laser bolts reflect in the interior of the

lasercannon bubble. Starkiller rechecks his firing swithces..Whitsun adjusts

his headphones, and lowers a glare reflector. He raps on the power rotation

circuits, and gives them a little test burst. The pod instantly rotates a few

degrees. The large starship heads directly toward the three enemy ships and

at the last moment dives under the attacking craft. Starkiller watches the

smaller crafts pass overhead, aching to open fire. He calls Whitsun on the

intercom.

STARKILLER

I've got no signal. I'm on target. What's wrong? What are they waiting for?

I've got an open shield!

The three Imperial craft are firing incessantly at point blank range.

WHITSUN

Wait for the signal.

But Starkiller has a perfect shot, and he can't wait. He squeezes the trigger

and the giant lasercannon, with a burst of smoke and electrical charge, opens

up on the enemy craft. Moments later, the signal lights flash on and Whitsun

commences firing on the receeding hunter-destroyers. Two of the Imperial

craft break off, and prepare for another attack run. The third is hit by a

concentrated barrage from the two captains, and begins spinning out of

control, until it finally explodes. Whitsun gives Starkiller a victory wave,

which Starkiller gleefully returns. These moments of triumph are broken by

the intercom.

GENERAL

Annikin, next run you wait for my signal. We haven't much power to spare on

your inaccurate grandstanding!

Starkiller's pride is wounded. He resets his accelerators, as the two

remaining hunter-destroyers begin a second run.

117. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

Han turns to the general.

HAN

We have a weakened shield on the port turret...

GENERAL

Warn Starkiller. Get him out of there. (to Threepio) Change your heading by

point five.

118. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

Princess Leia listens to Han warn Starkiller.

HAN

Your shield power is down. Abandon that positions, and seal that section.

Report! Captain, do you hear me? Captain?!!!

Leia becomes worried that something has happened to Annikin. The young

captain switches off the intercom system and signals to Whitsun that the

system has gone dead. Before Whitsun can answer, the two hunter-destroyer

spacecraft are upon them once again. Laser bolts flash all around them. The

general's signal flashes on, and the captain starts to return the fire. One

of the Imperial fighters concentrates its fire on Starkiller's weakened

gunport. A direct hit blows open a hole in the turret, and everything that

isn't bolted down is sucked into outer space, including Starkiller. He bangs

against the side of the starship, held only by a weakened lifeline.

The princess hears Whitsun explain Starkiller's predicament, and rushes back

to help him. She is stopped by a pressure locked door leading to the gun

emplacement.

119. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

The general orders Threepio to swing the spacecraft around and start a new

attack. He turns to Artwo.

GENERAL

Use the aft port...See what you can do for Starkiller.

Artwo hurriedly waddles out of the bridge. Threepio and Han simultaneously

turn to the general.

THREEPIO

More craft approaching!

HAN

It looks like at least six or seven.

The general studies the radar scopes and then checks a Galactic map displayed

on one of the monitors.

GENERAL

Change course to three point one.

THREEPIO

That will head us directly into the path of the Norton Asteroid Belt.

HAN

That Asteroid Belt is too dense to pass through...The ship won't make it!

GENERAL

We'll never defeat them in combat. It's our only chance to lose them.

Threepio punches in new coordinates, and the starship veers away toward the

treacherous asteroid belt.

120. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

Whitsun fires on one ofthe two hunter-destroyers which is pacing the rebel

starship. Starkiller unsuccessfully tries to pull himself back inside the

spacecraft. The enemy craft maneuvers wildly in an attempt to get into a

better position, to fire on Starkiller. Whitsun blasts away, until the

Imperial spacecraft spews forth equipment and personnel, careens off, and

eventually explodes.

Artwo wobbles along the exterior of the ship, until he reaches the stranded

captain. He attaches a new lifeline to the young Jedi's spacesuit, and makes

his way back inside the wounded craft. Starkiller is pulled to safety just as

the starship enters the asteroid belt. A barrage of small and large asteroids

begins to pelt the ship, causing a great deal of damage.

GENERAL (over intercom)

Secure yourselves. We may have to eject. Abandon the turrets.

The princess rushes back to her lifepod and straps herself in. Whitsun and

Artwo help Starkiller make his way out of the lasercannon turrets and through

a series of locks, to the lifepod area.

121. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - SPACE

The asteroids hit hard. The ship is buffeted to and fro as the general, Han,

and Threepio struggle into their spacesuit-like lifepods. The Imperial

hunter-destroyer closest to the rebel ship explodes in the onrush of deadly

asteroids. The new reinforcement hunter-destroyers turn back and give up the

pursuit. They disappear from the tracking monitors. The asteroid bombardment

becomes almost unbearable. Warning lights begin to flash. Extending foils,

antennae, and armament pods are scraped away from the starship hull. A

baseball-sized hole is punched through the midsection, and hundreds of objects

are sucked into space. A large locker eventually plugs the opening. The

starship and her passengers shudder and sway under the punishment of the

asteroid storm.

THREEPIO

The ship is breaking up.

HAN

We're almost clear of the storm.

THREEPIO

We'll never make it. Eject, we must eject.

The general watches the computer monitor as the starship emerges from the far

side of the Asteroid Belt.

HAN

We're approaching one of the Forbidden Systems....

GENERAL

We've got to achieve orbit.

THREEPIO

We'll never make it.

The starship heads for a small blue-green planet in the distance.

122. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - SPACE

Starkiller was considerably shaken in the destruction of his laserturret. He

is slightly dazed as Whitsun straps him into a lifepod with Artwo.

WHITSUN (to Artwo)

You watch him. Make sure this pod gets off all right.

Artwo nods, and Whitsun moves to the second lifepod and straps himself in next

to the princess.

LEIA

Will he be all right?

WHITSUN

I think so.. His feelings for you are dangerous. You should discourage him.

She is surprised that Starkiller has any feeling for her, but keeps her

emotions to herself.

123. BRIDGE - STARSHIP - YAVIN ORBIT

The general is strapped into the lifepod with the two micro-packs containing

the young princes. Han and Threepio are in the second lifepod.

HAN

We're in orbit.

THREEPIO

We've got to eject now! Those reactors won't hold much longer. This ship's

going to end up in a million little pieces,... and I don't want to be one of

them.

HAN

All lifepod systems are operative.

GENERAL (into intercom)

If you boys are ready back there, we'll get off this bucket.

WHITSUN

All systems operative...I have the signal.

ARTWO

All systems operative...We have the signal.

Han salutes the general, and his lifepod jettisons away from the crippled

starship. He is quickly followed by the general.

124. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - YAVIN ORBIT

Artwo pushes the jettison switch, but nothing happens. Starkiller slowly and

with some difficulty, pushes the switch two or three times. Nothing happens.

He begins to look a little worried.

STARKILLER (into intercom)

We've got a problem...Wait a second...

Artwo pushes the switch again, and the lifepod blasts off in a cloud of smoke

and debris. Whitsun also seems to be having a problem. Half the lights on

his control panel have gone dead. He struggles to reactivate them.

WHITSUN

My power's out!

GENERAL (over intercom)

Is it a faulty switch?

WHITSUN

No. The whole bank is out.

Whitsun gives the princess a reassuring look, then punches some information

into the computer. The monitor flashes: "Income line main power." He looks

outside the lifepod and sees a damaged cable.

WHITSUN

I've found it...

GENERAL

You haven't much time...The auxiliary units have already blown....

Whitsun scrambles out of the lifepod and rushes over to the severed connector.

He works on it for a few moments, then stops with a rather defeated look. The

princess watches him as he tries to think of a solution. A great explosion is

heard in the forward part of the ship.

125. LIFEPODS - SPACE - YAVIN ORBIT

The two lifepods containing the general, and Han and Threepio drift away from

the disabled starship.

GENERAL

Where's Starkiller?

HAN

I can't see him either.

Starkiller uses the small rockets on his lifepod to maneuver back toward the

burning starship. He can hear the general over the intercom.

GENERAL

Starkiller, where are you? Report in.

Starkiller reaches down and switches off the intercom.

126. AFT SECTION - STARSHIP - YAVIN ORBIT

Whitsun appears to have found a solution to his situation and rushes back to

the princess. He reaches in and locks on the power switch.

WHITSUN

There is only one possible solution, and we must use it. Lock the hitch and

make sure it is sealed.

PRINCESS

But what of...

Another explosion creates a large bulge in the wall of the aft section.

WHITSUN

We've no time!

He slams the hatch shut and runs to the power connector. Smoke begins to fill

the chamber, as Whitsun slams a large metallic dampening tool across the

damaged connector terminals, and the lifepod jettisons away.

127. LIFEPODS - SPACE - YAVIN ORBIT

The princess jettisons free, as Starkiller moves toward the crippled ship.

Leia calls the general on the intercom.

LEIA

I'm all right, but Clieg is still on board.

GENERAL

Starkiller, stay out of there.

With a rumble, the starship disappears in a spectacular explosion, sending

debris in all directions. Starkiller stops his lifepod and it starts to

drift. He is weeping. Han and the general helplessly watch the remains of

the explosion drift away.

GENERAL

Starkiller, stay near Leia. Use your beacon. Coordinate with us.

Starkiller's intercom is weak, and there is a great deal of static. The

lifepods drift toward the awesome blue-green Yavin surface. The general loses

sight of the other lifepods as the descend through the cloud cover.

GENERAL

Captain, I'm losing your beacon. Send me a new signal.

All he gets is static. The planet surface rushes toward the falling lifepods.

Retrorockets automatically kick in and slow the pods. Two of the small craft

break through the clouds and land in the dense, steaming jungles.

128. VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

The general's lifepod crashes through the foliage until it comes to rest in

the middle of a large vine-covered tree. He grabs the two micro-packs and

climbs out of the lifepod, and onto a large moss-covered limb. Han and

Threepio run to the base of the huge tree.

HAN

Are you all right?

GENERAL

Fine...Any signal from Annikin?

HAN

Nothing yet. I think they landed further south.

The general attaches a thin cable from his utility belt to the tree trunk, and

slides to the ground. Han takes the micro-packs from him. The general looks

around at the jungle.

GENERAL

This is dangerous country...We'd better stay together.

THREEPIO

The wildlife in the forbidden system is extremely hostile...Perhaps we should

seek shelter?

Han inspects the power units of the micro packs.

HAN

Windy's unit is very low. I can't tell if the unit is still functioning.

GENERAL

We have to find a place to revive them. We'll start moving south. We should

find protection along that ridge.

The general grabs one of the micro-packs and starts off into the murky jungle.

Han and Threepio quickly follow. The jungle is a strange and eerie, fog-laden

purgatory. Gruesome and unnatural sounds permeate this ghostly wasteland.

Everyone is cautious, and on the alert for an unseen danger.

129. FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - YAVIN

Starkiller's lifepod is also caught in the limbs of a gargantuan tree. The

lifepod has been ripped in half by the crash landing. The unconscious Jedi

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 Starkiller. He is immediately aware of the insect. His eyes

are open, but he doesn't move. Suddenly, with one quick blow, he knocks the

creature against the side of the spacecraft, and it is squashed lifeless.

Starkiller is a little groggy, but he manages to climb out of the wreckage.

He looks around for Artwo.

STARKILLER

Artwo! Artwo Detwo!

ARTWO

Help!

Starkiller turns and sees the little robot hanging upside down, one of his

three feet caught in a vine. He lifts Artwo out of his predicament and places

him securely on a wide limb.

STARKILLER

Did you see Leia?

ARTWO

She landed on the other side of those trees, approximately eight hundred

meters.

STARKILLER

Well, come on, old buddy. Let's get ourselves out of this tree.

130. VINE JUNGLE RIDGE - YAVIN

The general, Han and Threepio reach a shallow cave near the top of a steep

ridge. They quickly pull off the micro-packs and place them on a clear piece

of ground at the mouth of the cave.

GENERAL (to Han)

Check out the inside. Threepio, stand guard. Keep your eyes on the

countryside.

He looks at the power units on the micro-packs and shakes his head with a

worried look. Han returns from a survey of the inside of the cave.

HAN

It doesn't go very far. There's nothing back there.

GENERAL

Help me with this.

Han helps the general lift the top from the case containing Windy, the younger

of the two princes. The small boy appears lifeless as the general pulls him

from his encasement, and rests him on the cave floor. Han pulls a small

respiration out of the micro-packs and places it over the boy's nose. The

general attaches two electrodes over his heart.

HAN

He doesn't look good.

The little prince begins to turn blue. The general grows tense. Windy starts

to regain consciousness, but begins coughing and choking, then goes limp

again. The general quickly props Windy's mouth open with a small plastic rod

and checks the reading on his power pack.

GENERAL

We need more power...tap off Biggs' unit...Quickly!

He then places Windy's arms behind his back and starts pressing on his chest

with sharp, rhythmic movements. Han attaches new electrodes to the boy's

heart. Windy again comes to, choking and coughing. Finally, he begins to

cry. The general takes the plastic tube from his mouth and tenderly pats him

on the back.

GENERAL

Let's get Biggs out of there. He shouldn't be a problem.

131. FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - YAVIN

Starkiller slams closed the hatch of Princess Leia's lifepod. In the

distance, the subhuman cries of lonesome tree beasts cut through the forest

murmur.

ARTWO

Perhaps she went in search of us.

Starkiller studies the ground around the capsule. There are a great many

footprints, and much broken foliage.

STARKILLER

Someone's got her. She put up quite a fight...It's an easy trail to follow.

132. VINE JUNGLE RIDGE - YAVIN

Both Biggs and Windy are sleeping restlessly on the floor of the cave. Han

watches over them as the general scans the valley below with a pair of

electrobinoculars.

THREEPIO

It's about fourteen degrees below the horizon... a little to the left.

The electrobinoculars sweep the rich green landscape until the come to rest on

a bright reflection, revealing some type of structure.

GENERAL

It's too small to be a military base...Could belong to a trapper.

THREEPIO

Highly unusual...

GENERAL

It's on the way. Perhaps we should investigate.

Little Biggs wakes up with a giant yawn.

BIGGS

Hey! Where are we?

133. FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - YAVIN

The gargantuan trees are shrouded in mist, and the ominous sounds of unearthly

creatures fill the air. Starkiller moves quietly and cautiously, followed by

Artwo, who inadvertently makes a loud clicking sound. The young warrior

stops, and motions to the stubby little robot.

STARKILLER

Wait here. If I don't return by zero two hundred, come looking for me.

The mechanical dwarf acknowledges with his computer light. Starkiller moves

swiftly and silently forward, until he hears laughing and voices. He climbs

up the bankside of a huge tree, and inches his way out onto one of the huge

overhanging branches. Below him, he can see a group of scruffy, alien

trappers sitting around a nutron stove joking and telling stories. Parked on

either side of the group are two large, tank-like "jungle crawlers." Behind

the crawlers, five Wookees, (huge grey and furry beasts) hang upside down in a

tree. Occasionally, they thrash about in great anger and frustration.

The trappers speak in a strange language, and although they appear slightly

human, they are slimy, deformed, hideous looking creatures. Two of the

trappers yell at one another in a friendly argument. One shirtless creature

goes into a "crawler," and the remaining eight laugh hysterically. Starkiller

moves further out on the limb to get a better view. A couple of pieces of

bark break loose, and float a hundred feet to the ground. The trappers fail

to notice. Moments later, the shirtless trapper emerges from the crawler with

Princess Leia held unconscious and half naked over his head. Starkiller's

rage knows no bounds. With a terrifying Jedi war cry, the young captain jumps

from the tree, sails over a hundred feet, and with great agility, lands in the

middle of the startled trappers. In one continuous rapid motion, he ignites

his lasersword and cuts down three of the vile creatures. The shirtless

trapper swings the princess over his shoulder, and runs back into the huge

"jungle crawler." Two other trappers reach for their pistols, but the Jedi

has killed them before their weapons can clear leather. The three remaining

creatures have their pistols out and start firing. Explosions erupt all

around Starkiller. One blast hits the branch holding the Wookees, and they

collapse with a loud screech in a heap. One of the trappers is caught in the

crossfire and is blown apart.

When the smoke clears, Starkiller lies unconscious amid the burning rubble.

The jungle crawler begins to move out of the camp. The last two trappers run

after it. One is able to jump on board, but the second trapper runs too close

to the now freed Wookees. Chewbacca, one of the furry giants, grabs him and

snaps him in two, like a stick of wood. The jungle crawler disappears in the

forest mist. The eight foot Chewbacca, who resembles a huge, grey bushbaby

with fierce baboon-like fangs, struggles to free his companions.

Starkiller regains semiconsciousness, and attempts to get up, only to groan

and collapse back into unconsciousness. The Wookees gather around him and

poke him a couple times to see if he is still alive. They squawk and jabber,

apparently in some kind of argument. Finally, Dewanna, the largest of the

Wookees, picks up Starkiller and puts him over his shoulder. The group

disappears into the jungle foliage.

134. TREE HOUSE - FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - YAVIN

Han and Threepio carry the two little boys on their shoulders. The general

stops on the edge of a clearing, and motions for the others to be still.

Biggs turns around, and signals his little brother to be quiet. On the

opposite side of the clearing, a small metal structure is attached to one of

the huge trees. It is a small, weatherbeaten hut of futuristic design. It

appears deserted. The general cautiously approaches the structure.

VOICE

Howdy stranger...What can I offer you?

The general spins around and sees Owen Lars, an aged and scruffy looking

anthropologist.

LARS (con't)

I'm Owen Lars of Bastine.

The general takes the old man's extended hand.

GENERAL

I'm Luke Skywalker of Aquilae.

He signals for the others to join him in the clearing.

135. WOOKEE CAMP - YAVIN

The small caravan of Wookees, led by Chewbacca, enters a small clearing

surrounded by many bark and mud hovels. Young Wookees race ahead of the group

yelling, and running in and out of the grubby little dwellings. Giant,

bushbaby-like Wookees of all ages and sizes, make their way into the clearing.

Many stand dumbfounded, but others let out a joyful scream and rush up to

members of the group, hugging and kissing them.

Dewanna dumps the unconscious Starkiller on a raised area in the middle of the

clearing. Armed Wookees immediately surround the helpless human. Chewbacca

enters the largest of the lodges. He is greeted by his father, Auzituck,

Chief of the Kaapauku tribe; an old and feeble Wookee dressed in royal skins

and headdress.

136. INTERIOR - ANTHROPOLOGIST HUT - YAVIN

Anthropologist Lars, the general, Han and the children sit around a large

table eating. Lars yells into the kitchen.

LARS

Beru! Where's the thanta sauce?

Beru Lars, Owen's warm, plump wife, enters, carrying a small pitcher. She

smiles at Owen.

BERU

I swan! I put it right here in front, so you'd see it...(to Han) Here's some

Bum Bum extract. It's very mild...

LARS (to general)

There are no settlers to the south since the Dau family was wiped out... I'm

afraid I couldn't even get in there to bury them... Those Wookees are the

fiercest critters I've ever run across. A new tribe moved in down there about

a year ago...and it's been hell ever since. Only Yourellian trappers venture

in there now, and many of them don't even come back.

GENERAL

Where's the nearest city?

LARS

No cities at all...only a few scattered settlers and -- one Imperial

outpost... But the troops are of no help. They kill and plunder rather than

protect...Enough...If your friends landed father south, I'd fear for them.

HAN

How far is the outpost from here?

LARS

Five leagues...an oppressive blight.

GENERAL

What class is it? How many support craft?

LARS

It's very small, a class two....Only ten or twelve starraiders, I think.

Beru fusses over the boys, who refuse to eat their vegetables. She makes up a

game, which tricks them into eating. The general ponders the situation. Han

eats, like he hasn't eaten in years.

137. WOOKEE CAMP - AQUILAE [?? Yavin?]

Starkiller is surrounded by Wookees. Young ones push through to get a better

look, as the adults jabber and argue about the human. Starkiller regains

consciousness with a groan, and a sudden hush sweeps over the gathering.

Starkiller staggers to his feet, and the group of Wookees back away in mass.

The young Jedi surveys the situation for a few moments. The Wookees appear to

be frightened of this brave warrior. He reaches for his weapons, but they are

gone. Three guards with long spears attempt to contain Starkiller. With a

loud shout, he lunges at them, and they give him a little room.

Jommillia, a large, ferocious Wookee, steps forward. He says something to the

guards, and they quickly move away. He struts before Starkiller, boasting and

taunting him with his spear and battle ax. The captain studies the Wookee

warrior as he paces back and forth, his helmet plumes dancing and chest armor

jangling. Without warning, Starkiller lets out another loud yell, startling

Jommillia into backing off. Starkiller continues his verbal assault, calling

the uncomprehending Wookee all manner of vile and degrading things. Jommillia

continues to back into the surrounding crowd, momentarily confused by this odd

behaviour. Slowly, Jommillia begins to grin. He takes a defensive stance,

then begins to laugh hysterically. This stops Starkiller. The giant Wookee

swings his deadly, double-bladed battle ax over his head and expertly throws

it directly at the young captain's head. To the amazement of Jommillia and

the other Wookees, Starkiller, with Jedi skill and concentration, catches the

ax in mid-air, then charges his furry opponent.

Jommillia is caught off-guard, but manages to block Starkiller's attack with

his spear. The two warriors engage in a savage and fantastic duel.

Starkiller cuts the Wookee's spear in half, but is hit along the side of the

head by the shaft and is momentarily dazed. The battle ax is knocked from his

hands. He grabs the spear shaft and rams the giant creature in the belly. A

loud command from outside the crowd stops the fight. The Wookees part,

revealing Chewbacca and his father, who approach the two warriors. Jommillia

bows before his chief, and is commanded to move away. Chewbacca speaks to

Starkiller. He doesn't understand, but welcomes the chance to catch his

breath. Chewbacca then presents his father, who steps forward and bows before

the mighty Jedi. Chewbacca bows also, as the crowd of Wookees chatter in

disbelief. When the chief and his son rise, Starkiller bows down before them.

This pleases the Wookees, and they screech and cheer.

138. TREE HOUSE - FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - YAVIN

Mr. and Mrs. Lars stand on the balcony of their tree house with Threepio and

the two little princes, Biggs, and Windy. Han and the general emerge with

large survival backpacks and multiplelaser weapons.

GENERAL (to Threepio)

We'll call for you when we've found them.

THREEPIO

Your orders are quite clear. The boys will be quite safe.

LARS

Don't worry. The patrols never come out this far. We'll take good care of

the boys.

GENERAL

Lars, your kindness will surely be rewarded.

LARS

Just be careful out there...

He pats Skywalker on the back as the old Jedi and the ever faithful Han

descend from the tree house. [something whited out?] At the base of the huge

tree, the warriors climb aboard two small rocket powered platforms.

LARS (yelling down to them)

They're pretty old. I hope they'll be all right!

GENERAL

Out here, they're a wonderment.

Threepio and the kids wave as the jelsticks start with a whine. They idle

about five feet above the ground.

LARS

Good hunting. May the force of others be with you.

Han and the general wave as they ride off into the foreboding Yavin sunset.

139. WOOKEE CAMP - YAVIN - NIGHT

A beautiful, but frenzied fire festival is underway. Wookees perform the

Waita Tar dance, and yodel in a barking fashion around a large fire. The

female Wookees arrive, carrying torches, and move in a circle around the

males. The giant creatures are too involved to notice that little Artwo makes

his way around the dancers. The stubby robot stops near one of the mud huts,

and looks around. He then wobbles off toward the large chief's quarters, and

enters.

140. WOOKEE CAMP - YAVIN - MORNING

Artwo exits the chief's hut and looks around. It is a quiet, grey morning. A

low mist hangs over the now deserted clearing. He turns and signals back into

the hut. Starkiller cautiously emerges from the mud house. he wears a crude

backpack, and carries a large battle ax. They start across the clearing.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, Chewbacca is standing before them. He says nothing,

but scratches his head and then circles around Starkiller.

STARKILLER

We are leaving...We must go. Stand away!

The huge Wookee kneels and bows down in front of the young Jedi. Starkiller

looks down and smiles.

STARKILLER

Rise my friend. We will meet again.

Starkiller walks toward the jungle and Chewbacca scurries ahead of him and

bows down once more.

ARTWO

What does he want?

Starkiller shakes his head, and rubs his several days growth of beard. He

leans down toward Chewbacca.

STARKILLER

Stand up so we can talk properly.

Chewbacca jabbers in a [something whited out] questioning fashion.

STARKILLER

I am grateful to you and your people, but I must go. I wish you understood

me. It would make things so much easier. Go! Go!

Starkiller turns away, and begins to walk toward the jungle again. Chewbacca

gets to his feet, and runs after the Jedi, following a few paces behind.

Starkiller notices the Wookee following them, and shakes his head.

141. FOREST OF THE GARGANTUANS - TRAPPER SIGHT [sic] - YAVIN

The bodies of the killed trappers are covered with rat-sized insects. A laser

explosion erupts in the middle of the slimy creatures and they scatter into

the underbrush. Han and the general turn over one of the dead trappers.

HAN

They ran into something.

GENERAL

It's strange they left their dead. Something...

The constant cacophony of jungle creatures suddenly stops. The two warriors

scan the jungle for possible danger. Han draws his laserpistol. The

cacophony starts again, as the general ignites his lasersword.

HAN

Two or three moving this way, from the east.

He listens more closely for a few moments.

HAN (con't)

It's Artwo!

Starkiller and Artwo break out of the dark foliage into the clearing. He

waves to Han and the general. Artwo waddles a few paces behind. Chewbacca

sees the humans and stops at the edge of the jungle. He watches as Starkiller

and the general carry on an animated conversation. Han sees the Wookee

lurking in the shadows.

HAN

You were followed.

STARKILLER

He wouldn't stay. He's one of the ones I saved...

Han calls out to Chewbacca in the Wookee's own language, and the huge,

lumbering creature approaches the group. Han and the Wookee talk for a few

moments, then embrace as if they were old friends. Starkiller is surprised.

HAN (to Starkiller)

This is Chewbacca, son of Auzituck, Prince of the Sawas, a very powerful

tribe. It seems they've made you a god.

The general smiles. Starkiller is embarrassed.

142. VINE JUNGLE RIDGE - YAVIN

Starkiller joins the general on a ridge overlooking the Imperial outpost of

Mavassi. All that can be seen of the fortress is a lone guard standing on a

small pedastal, jutting out above the dense jungle.

GENERAL

Their trail leads directly to the outpost. Patrols are probably out looking

for us by now.

STARKILLER

Finding her in there isn't going to be easy.

GENERAL

Getting in there is going to be impossible. We could sure use one of those

starships.

Starkiller spots something moving in the jungle. He scans the area with his

electrobinoculars.

STARKILLER

Something's going on down there...Han!

Han moves up next to Starkiller, followed closely by Chewbacca.

STARKILLER

Your eyes are better than mine....What do you make of that?

HAN

They look like Wookees...hundreds of them.

Han turns and speaks to Chewbacca, gesturing toward the movement far below in

the jungle.

HAN

Apparently, it's a siege. They've been harassing the outpost for almost two

years.

GENERAL

Have they ever tried to take the fortress?

Han relays this to Chewbacca.

HAN

He says they've made several assaults, but they are no match for the weapons.

GENERAL

It's only a class three fortress. Maybe they just need a little help.

Starkiller grins, and Han says something to Chewbacca, who becomes excited and

screeches loudly.

143. INTERIOR - TREEHOUSE - YAVIN

The incoming signal alarm on the anthropologist's radio system wails through

the calm of the tree house. Biggs, dragging an eight-legged, furry rodent,

rushes up to the old radio and flips the receiver.

BIGGS

I'm reading yah. Go ahead.

GENERAL

Biggs, how are you getting along?

BIGGS

Great! I caught a thumper...a really big one. Its name is "Amber."

He yanks on the leash, and the furry beast lets out a strained yelp.

GENERAL

Good, Biggs. How's your brother? Are you taking good care of him?

BIGGS

Oh, sure. He's out collecting "Abas" with Owen and Beru. I'm in charge here.

Did you find Leia?

GENERAL

Not yet. We'll be away for a while. You mind Lars until we return. May the

force of others be with you.

BIGGS

All right. Take care.

Threepio enters the room, carrying a plate of steaming food. Biggs turns the

radio off, and puts the receiver away. A crashing sound and voices are heard

in the clearing below.

THREEPIO

Come and eat your dinner.

BIGGS

They're back! They're back! Come Amber!

The furry rodent jumps up onto its eight stubby legs and rushes over to the

door, but stops short, and begins to growl. Biggs stops behind the creature.

BIGGS

What is it, Amber?

Biggs peeks out the window, and sees a patrol of six Imperial stormtroopers

climbing out of an airtank. He ducks back, and tugs Amber away from the door.

BIGGS

Quiet, Amber. Come here. Come on.

THREEPIO

What's wrong?

BIGGS

Troopers. We must hide! Stay quiet.

Biggs and the robot scramble for a trap door near a large shelf. The troops

begin to climb the ladder to the tree house. The trap door is heavy, and the

robot and the little boy struggle to get it open. The troops break in the

door, just as Threepio closes the trap door. The stormtroopers are led by a

rough looking sergeant. They poke around, tearing everything apart. Biggs

struggles to keep Amber quiet. Suddenly he realizes something.

BIGGS

The food!

The sergeant takes the bowl of food from the table and studies it. He then

takes a small chrome ball from his pocket, and tosses it into the air.

[something whited out?] Antennae shoot from its surface as it floats around

the room. Eventually, it hovers over the trap door. A sinister grin sweeps

across the sergeant's face as he moves over to the trap door and puts the

chrome ball back into his pocket.

Threepio puts his arm around Biggs who is desperately clutching the struggling

thumper. All the movement above them stops, and Biggs looks to the robot.

THREEPIO (quietly)

They're still up there. Stay still.

The silence continues, then suddenly the trap door swings open with a loud

bang. Amber breaks away from Biggs, and attacks the sergeant. One of the

other troopers cuts the thumper in half with his lasersword. The sergeant

pulls Biggs out of his hiding place. Biggs stares at the dead thumper.

SERGEANT

Well, well, here's one of them, anyway. Send seekers in all directions. Find

the others!

144. VINE JUNGLE RIDGE - YAVIN

The general sits at the head of the large stone table, pushing small markers

around. Han explains what the general is doing, to ten or fifteen Wookee

chiefs gathered around the table. Occasionally, Chewbacca puts in a word of

further explanation or answers a question. Starkiller sits back silently

watching the Wookee warriors and listens to the general's plan.

GENERAL

.... then they pull back to here. That's where the trap will be set. No-one

must advance. An assault on the perimeter is useless. Our only hope is to

use their weapons against them.

The general pauses, while Han and Chewbacca translate.

GENERAL (to Starkiller)

Once we acquire those tanks, our prime object must be to secure the starship.

No-one must escape.

145. IMPERIAL OUTPOST - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

Three officers run along a row of giant air tnaks to a perimeter bunker.

There, two stormtroopers are watching the jungle. When the officers arrive,

the troopers let them look through the powerful, mounted electrobinoculars.

One of the troopers points out several areas in the dense jungle.

146. INTERIOR - CONTROL ROOM - IMPERIAL OUTPOST - YAVIN

A trooper sitting at an elaborate control panel, turns to an officer watching

a monitor system.

TROOPER

A large concentration of trestuals at point E-2.

OFFICER

Alert squads one through six!

147. VINE JUNGLES - OUTPOST PERIMETER - YAVIN

The general stands in a small clearing surrounded, by many armed Wookees

carrying large shiny shields. Han moves back and forth, barking orders to the

assembled creatures.

GENERAL (to Han)

We're ready. Give them the signal.

Han motions to a young Wookee, who takes off, running through the jungle.

148. IMPERIAL OUTPOST - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

Three large air tanks slowly move toward the outpost perimeter. The tank

pilots sit on the hatch rims of the ponderous weapons, studying the movements

of the Wookees. The tank personnel talk to one another on an intercom system.

TANK PILOT

There is a large concentration....red two by C-3. Let's break them up.

The pilots slip into the tanks and close the hatches. The tanks open up with

a barrage of laser bolts which create a wall of explosions. The Wookies

retreat, and the tanks follow. The tank crews track the feeling creatures

with various electronic scopes, and laugh at the fleeing creatures.

149. VINE JUNGLE - OUTPOST PERIMETER - YAVIN

The general stands on a limb of a jungle tree, watching the advancing tanks.

Starkiller is on another branch a few feet away.

GENERAL

They've grown sloppy fighting Wookees. The intra-fazer systems aren't on.

They're in for a little surprise.

Starkiller flashes a signal mirror, which is received by a Wookee near the

tanks. The Wookees are in pairs, and they hold heavy stone wedges attached to

woven vines; which in turn, are fastened high in the trees. When the tanks

pass directly under the Wookees, they let loose with the heavy stone

pendulums. The wedges fly through the air, neatly clipping off the antenna

groupings protruding from the tops of the air tanks.

150. INTERIOR - AIR TANK - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

Several of the lights and monitors go dark on the main control panel. The

pilot flips several switches in a panic.

PILOT

All high phasing units are out. We've lost all contact....

SERGEANT

Send out a ground signal!

Suddenly, all of the monitors go white, and static fills the crowded tank

interior. An alarm signal sounds.

SERGEANT

What is it?!!!

PILOT

All signals...sensers....everything is coming right back to us. Some kind of

deflection screen. It's a total blackout.

SERGEANT

Get out there and see if you can see anything.

The pilot pushes a button and the main hatch slowly slides away.

151. VINE JUNGLE - OUTPOST PERIMETER - YAVIN

The pilot pops out of the hatch and sses two rows of Wookee warriors holding

reflective shields. They form a circle that totally encompasses the massive

air tank. Han shouts a signal to a group of Wookees in another tree, and they

cut loose a bent limb which is attached to a noose around the tank's hatch.

The noose instantly tightens around the pilot, and he is plucked from the tank

and suspended fifty feet in the air. In an equally swift move, Starkiller

drops a small gas grenade into the open hatch. It explodes and engulfs the

tank in a grey mist.

The Wookees let out a joyful yell, and charge the tank. Han yells at them to

stop, but several make it to the conquered craft before the gas cloud

dissipates and they are felled by the fumes. Starkiller shakes his head, then

after the smoke clears, jumps on the back of the immobile tank.

Several signal mirrors flash their messages to Han and the general.

HAN

That makes four captured.

GENERAL

Have them camouflaged. I'm going with Starkiller.

152. INTERIOR - AIR-TANK - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

Wookees are removing the tank crew as Starkiller checks out the power

controls. The general slides through the main hatch.

GENERAL

Any damage?

STARKILLER

She's fine...We're ready to move.

GENERAL

Then let's go...

The general yells for the Wookees to clear the tanks, and they scramble out of

the hatch.

153. VINE JUNGLE - OUTPOST PERIMETER - YAVIN

The tank starts up with a loud roar, startling the many Wookees resting on the

mighty vehicle. Chewbacca yells at the warriors and they fall a few feet

behind the tank, their shields forming a shiny protective wall.

154. IMPERIAL OUTPOST - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

Several officers stand on a parked air-tank trying to get a better view of the

operation. A light landspeeder pulls up next to the group, and a general gets

out. The officers snap to attention.

GENERAL

Can you see anything?

OFFICER

No Sir, but they've stopped firing.

AID [sic]

Communications still can't reach them, Sir.

GENERAL

Nobody seems to know what's going on.

OFFICER

I'm sure they've got them on the run, Sir.

A laserbolt flashes out of the jungle and knocks out a guard tower about a

quarter of a mile from where the men are standing. Seconds later, the air-

tank on which they are standing explodes into a million pieces. Out of the

jungle, rumbles the captured air-tank, driven by Starkiller and followed by a

column of Wookee warriors.

Alarms sound, troops rush from the low block houses, and a battle rages inside

the outpost. Wookees with spears, axes, and arrows, manage to hold their own

against the laser weapons of the stormtroopers. Explosions erupt everywhere,

as the Wookees begin to use captured laserrifles. They are much fiercer

fighters than the soft Imperial troops.

155. INTERIOR - AIR-TANK - OUTPOST - YAVIN

Starkiller works the controls of the air-tank as the general watches the

monitors, and works the laserguns.

GENERAL

Swing left. They're trying to cut us off.

156. STARSHIP RUNWAY - IMPERIAL OUTPOST - YAVIN

Starkiller maneuvers the air-tank in front of a line of ten starships, cutting

off a platoon of stormtroopers. The troops open fire on the tank, but are cut

down by a group of Wookees who have moved in behind them. Han and Artwo run

up to the tank as Starkiller and the general climb out of the hatch.

HAN

We've taken the main control center. All power units have been shut down.

They're helpless.

STARKILLER

Have they found Leia?

HAN

They've taken her back to Aquilae. The ship left not more than ten hours ago.

GENERAL (to Han)

Set up a perimeter around these starships...Use as many men as you need.

157. STAFF OFFICE - IMPERIAL OUTPOST - YAVIN

Starkiller and the general sit at a large table in the deserted office of the

Imperial Chief of Staff. The room is in a state of disarray; papers are

scattered everywhere. Artwo stands on a chair, projecting an image of the

"death star" fortress orbiting Aquilae, on the table top.

ARTWO

....And are connected to the central system by a series of crossing networks

similar to section TB4 or F687.

The projection switches to a close-up view of the transformer. The general

studies it carefully, then leans back in his chair. Artwo turns off the

projector.

GENERAL

I'm not going to stop you, but I think it's a reckless move. Even if you

could get in, you'd never be able to get out... Just be patient. We now have

enough ships to attack in force.

STARKILLER

But no pilots...

Han and Chewbacca enter the office.

HAN

Still no contact with Owen Lars or the kids...I'm afraid something's happened.

GENERAL

Have Chewbacca send two of his best warriors out there to get them.

Han relates this to Chewbacca. The general turns back to Starkiller, who

watches Chewbacca leave the room.

STARKILLER (mocking)

They're fierce warriors, but you'll never teach them to fly.

The general gives him a stern look.

GENERAL

They'll fly, and Aquilae will be free.

STARKILLER

May the force of others be with you.

The general embraces the young Jedi.

GENERAL

Bring her back safely.

158. OUTPOST RUNWAY - STARSHIP - YAVIN

Starkiller, dressed as an Imperial skyraider, and Artwo climb aboard one of

the giant four-man starships. A crowd of Wookees, lead by Chewbacca, give a

rousing cheer for the departing Jedi. Starkiller breaks into a smile and

waves to the joyous warriors. The general watches the proceedings from a

bunker turret. He is lost in thought.

159. SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Three Imperial space transports dock inside the huge artificial moon. Two

smaller convoy starships circle the larger craft until the three ships are

safely inside the vast fortress.

160. CONFERENCE ROOM - INTERIOR SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Vader of the Imperial Space Fleet, hurries down a hallway, followed by

a group of officers. They enter the large conference room where Leia is held

under heavy squad. She appears well, but saddened. Vader approaches her and

bows before her.

VADER

I pray you have been treated honorably? I am your servant, Darth Vader. It

won't be long before we will be able to return you to your people. (to an

aide) Are the chambers ready?

AIDE

They are working on it, Sir.

Leia stares defiantly at him. She starts to speak, but a powerful electric

shock engulfs her body, and she whines in extreme pain.

VADER

Just relax, and everything will be fine. (to guards) Take her to section

twenty-five.

Leia is forcibly taken from the room.

VADER (to officer)

What time do the doctors from Alderaan arrive?

OFFICER

Sixty-five hours, Sir.

VADER

Put all security stations on alert until they arrive.

The officer salutes smartly, and exits.

161. IMPERIAL OUTPOST - VINE JUNGLE - YAVIN

A huge air tank rumbles along the approach to the Imperial outpost. The pilot

sits on the main hatch of the tank, talking to his crew, by headphones.

PILOT

Any contact yet?... It appears deserted...I don't like it.

The tank enters the outpost perimeter and smoking rubble from the recent

battle comes into view. The pilot becomes alarmed.

PILOT

There has been an attack! Reverse direction.

The tank comes to a grinding halt, but before it can start up again, it is

surrounded by the Wookee army. From out of nowhere, a Wookee is on the back

of the air-tank and has the pilot in a powerful armlock.

A Wookee chieftain rushes from a bunker, followed by an excited, jabbering

warrior. They reach the captured air-tank just as the last crewman is hauled

out, and little Biggs pokes his head out of the hatch. He is frightened. His

younger brother, Windy, follows him out of the tank. Below them, the Wookees

bully the captured crewmen.

WINDY

What will they do to us?

BIGGS

I don't know, but it don't look good.

Threepio pulls himself out of the air-tank, followed by Owen Lars and his

wife. The Wookee chieftain climbs on board, and starts to jabber at the

group. The Wookee carries on for some time, gesturing wildly, and continually

pointing at the sky. The two boys are too scared to say anything. Finally,

the Wookee kneels before them. Threepio politely returns a short bow.

BIGGS

I don't get it.

The Wookee rises and again gestures skyward, just then a starship wildly

buzzes the field, upsidedown. All the Wookees run for cover. The chief

Wookee points to the crafts, and jabbers incessantly.

162. INTERIOR - IMPERIAL STARSHIP - SKY OVER YAVIN

Chewbacca sits at the controls of a four-man starship. His face is a twisted

combination of complete panic and an awesome religious experience. The

general, sitting next to him, calmly switches a few buttons on the control

panel, as Han watches from the seat directly behind the Wookee.

GENERAL

You'll get the hang of it.

Han also gives the Wookee a few words of encouragement.

GENERAL

Now, let's see if we can get into orbit...Push this, then ease her up.

Chewbacca follows the instructions, but pulls back on the lever too fast and

the ships begins to vibrate and bounce violently. Chewbacca thinks it's

funny, and begins to laugh hysterically. Han becomes nervous and quiet.

GENERAL

Not so fast - Back off! Back off!

Han yells at the Wookee, who can't respond because he is laughing so hard.

The general pulls back on the lever. Han shakes his head, and gives the

general a worried look.

GENERAL

Don't worry. Ignorance is on their side.

Han is beginning to look a little sick. He gets up and rushes to the back of

the ship.

163. IMPERIAL SPACE FORTRESS - DOCKING AREA - AQUILAE

The canopy on the starship pops open, and Artwo and the young Jedi, disguised

as a starraider, climb out onto the docking platform. An officer and two

groundcrew approach him and salute. Starkiller hands him his papers.

STARKILLER

I'm here to check the vent ports in the rim tracks.

OFFICER

Your ship is from Yavin... We've lost all contact with them. What's going on

out there?

STARKILLER

There is a fierce inversion just east of Bull Pup station... It's really a

mess out there.

The officer smiles and the ground crew starts to check out the starship.

Starkiller heads for the main docking exit, followed by Artwo. He remembers

something as he passes the control station, and calls out to the officer.

STARKILLER

Do you mind if I use your com-link?

OFFICER

No. Go ahead.

Starkiller walks into the small control area and pretends to talk on an

intercom system.

STARKILLER (to Artwo)

Find the highest security area.

Artwo punches his claw arm into a computer socket, and the brain comes to

life, feeding information to the little robot.

Starkiller watches the officer as he directs the crewmen in the securing of

the starship. Artwo removes his arm from the computer, and the duo leave the

control station.

ARTWO

Station 325 is the highest security area on board. It's a detention area.

They disappear into a chamber lock hallway.

164. ELEVATOR TUBE - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller, trying to look inconspicuous, waits for a horizontal elevator.

Troops and fortress personnel come and go, but no-one seems to pay any

attention to the pair. Finally a small car arrives, and Starkiller follows

Artwo into the podlike vehicle, and it takes off through a vacuum tunnel.

165. DETENTION AREA - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller and Artwo enter a security station. Guards and electronic cutters

are everywhere. An officer approaches Starkiller, and checks his papers.

OFFICER

The B-23 can't enter this station.

STARKILLER

But I need him.

OFFICER

Sorry. No mechanical personnel. It's restricted.

Starkiller watches helplessly, as Artwo is led into a waiting area.

OFFICER

You may proceed, but you'll have to be escorted.

A trooper joins Starkiller and leads him through a series of hallways.

Starkiller carefully surveys the area as he follows the guard.

TROOPER

Mathusians just beat the PDR's again. They should be in another league. Do

you follow the ecometrics?

The guard turns to discover that Starkiller has disappeared. He is stunned,

then manages to pull out a small ring radio.

TROOPER

Code six - Alert.

166. STARSHIP RUNWAY - IMPERIAL OUTPOST - YAVIN

Six Wookees sit before Han and the general, listening to Han explain something

about space fighting. Owen Lars approaches the general.

LARS

We've made contact with the underground on Aquilae. Things are tighter. They

can only get one man out. Datos is on his way.

GENERAL

We should be ready by the time he arrives.

Han turns to the general.

HAN

They're ready to go up.

The general makes a short statement to the Wookes in their own language. They

let out a loud cheer, and run for the row of starships.

167. STARSHIP - SPACE - YAVIN

The general sits next to Chewbacca, as he leads two other Wookee piloted

starships in a tight formation. They head for a small cluster of asteroids

orbiting near the planet's surface. The general quietly gives Chewbacca some

reassuring instructions. Han leads a second formation of three ships,

following Chewbacca's group. The two formations of starships make an attack

run on the asteroids. The general watches as Chewbacca lines up and fires at

an asteroid blowing it into a million pieces. The general smiles, and slaps

Chewbacca on the back. The Wookees excitedly chatter among themselves over

the intercom system.

168. DETENTION AREA HALLWAY - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

A patrol of ten men marches through one of the long hallways in the detention

area. They stop at an intersection. The officer in charge reports on the

intercom.

OFFICER

Ben Five to Moma. All clear.

The troops relax, some stand in groups, others wander a distance away, poking

into the various small alleyways running off the main hallway. One trooper

notices a small reflected light in one of the narrow corridors, and carefully

moves down the dark passageway to check it out. Out of no-where, a fist

knocks the trooper unconscious and drags him into a small alcove.

The officer finishes his report on the intercom and yells for the troops to

fall-in. Men scurry in all directions and out of a narrow corridor emerges

Starkiller, dressed in the uniform of an Imperial startrooper. He joins the

platoon, and they march away.

169. GENERAL'S QUARTERS - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Vader and several officers watch the progress of the search on TV

monitors. The general speaks into an intercom.

VADER

Have them clear the area. Bring in the seekers.

On the monitors, the troops are assembled in the main entry-way and several

small chrome balls are thrown into the hallway. Small antennae pop from the

chrome surface, and the small balls float down the hallways. Valorum, once a

proud Knight of the Sith, enters wearing the uniform of a stormtrooper. He

snaps to attention before the general, and hands him a report. Vader gives

Valorum a sly grin.

VALORUM

Contact has been lost with the ship carrying the doctors from Alderaan. The

princess' treatment will have to be delayed.

VADER

We've just trapped your own friend Starkiller. Watch us accomplish what you

found to be impossible.

Valorum is humiliated, but stays at attention. Valorum [Vader?] gets an

emergency call on the intercom.

VADER

Yes...Yes... Put it on the view screen.

One of the TV monitors switches to an image of the unconscious trooper

Starkiller stripped.

VADER

Get me the Captain of the Guard.

170. DETENTION AREA - MAIN ENTRY - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Three squads of troops including Starkiller, stand at attention in the main

entrance to the detention center, while the Captain of the Guard gets new

orders over his headphones. Starkiller studies the situation carefully,

looking for a way out of his predicament. The Captain of the Guard calls up

the platoon sergeants and gives them a series of orders. They return to their

squads and begin to inspect the troops. Starkiller begins to get worried.

The sergeant works his way down the line until he gets to the trooper next to

Starkiller. He sees no chance of escape, but surprise. Suddenly, he bolts

from the ranks and races down the hallway.

CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD

Squad leaders!

Ten troopers break out of the ranks and take up the chase. Starkiller runs

down a corridor and rounds a corner, reaching a dead end. The troops round

the corner and confront the trapped Jedi. The sound of igniting laserswords

fills the hallway. Starkiller takes a defensive stance, his huge lasersword

buzzing loudly. The troops attack. They fight with skill and bravery, but

are eventually all cut down by the invincible Jedi warrior.

Starkiller breaks away from the troops and runs down a long hallway. A safety

door slides shut, closing off his escape. He turns around in time to see

another door seal off the opposite end of the hallway. Before he can make any

attempt to pry open the door, gas fills the sealed corridor. Starkiller

collapses in a heap on the floor.

171. GENERAL'S QUARTERS - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Vader laughs as he watches the unconscious Starkiller on the TV monitors. All

of the other officers in the room are [something whited out] laughing and

joking, except Valorum, who remains grimly at attention.

GENERAL (to Valorum)

Take him to the special section.

Valorum salutes, and exits the offices. Vader laughs again.

172. STARSHIP RUNWAY - IMPERIAL OUTPOST - YAVIN

Nine gleaming starships sit in a row along the edge of the vast jungle runway.

Bizarre and colorful Wookee designs have been painted across the large

deflector fins of the spacecraft. Some designs transform the ships into huge

and grotesque animals, while others create unique mosaic patterns. The four-

man Wookee crews stand proudly at attention in front of their ships. The

general, along with Han and the underground leader, Datos, review the

assembled Wookees.

In one of the Wookee crews, a pilot is picking fleas off the back of his tail

gunner. When the general passes, he snaps to attention. There is a gleam in

the general's eye as he shows off his strike force to the crusty old

underground leader. When they've inspected the last starship, Datos turns to

the general.

DATOS

I'm speechless. It's amazing. A most impressive display. For the first time

since the take-over, I feel real hope.

GENERAL

Will your people be ready?

DATOS

Our forces have already started sabotaging their com-link set ups. A refugee

camp on Mananyo has been conducting raids on shipping from Alderaan. That's

how we intercepted those doctors...

GENERAL (to Han)

Get them in the ships... We're on our way. (to Datos) Send the code signal.

173. DETENTION CELL - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

General Vader and Valorum watch as a medic revives Starkiller, who has been

strapped to an upright slab, protected by cutter-rays.

MEDIC

He's coming round.

The medic backs away, and throws the switch which activates the cutters. A

blue glow surrounds Starkiller as he wakes up and sees Vader and Valorum.

VADER

For all the myths and the trouble, you don't seem like much...

He laughs and leaves Valorum alone in the room with the young Jedi. Valorum

appears sad and frustrated at the capture of the noble warrior. They stare at

one another for a few moments.

VALORUM

You were insane to come here. The security on this... this thing is

impossible. Why?....For her? I can't believe your loyalty is that strong.

You're a great warrior... but you're a greater fool. This is a place for

androids, no codes, no honor. Our ways are useless here. Why couldn't you

have stayed away?

He storms out of the cell. Starkiller struggles to free himself.

174. SLUM DWELLING - GORDON SPACEPORT - AQUILAE

The young partisan, Occo, listens to a small transmitter in a secret closet

behind the main room in a slum dwelling. He jumps up and runs into the main

room, where Quist and several other men are sitting around a table covered

with maps and plans.

OCCO

It's Datos. We've got the go ahead.

Everyone cheers and starts hugging and slapping each other on the back.

Finally, they settle down.

QUIST

Go to your organizations. (to Occo) What's the code time?

OCCO

Zero three thirty...

QUIST

May the force of others be with you.

The men solemnly shake hands and leave the room.

175. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller stands on a small platform before Governor Hoedaack and the High

Consul. His hands are held behind his back by electric bonds.

GOVERNOR

.... And I'm sure the emperor will enjoy your execution. I only regret I

won't be there myself. This should end the Jedi myth once and for all. Take

him to Alderaan.

Valorum steps forward with a squad of stormtroopers and escorts the prisoner

away. Vader and the governor seem very pleased with themselves. Valorum

looks back in disgust.

176. CONTROL CENTER - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

In the large central control room, two officers sit above a row of monitors

and giant read-outs.

FIRST OFFICER

Look! That whole sector just went dead. We're losing contact with the

surface. Use the IF link and find out what's going on.

177. DOCKING AREA - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Valorum halts the squad guarding Starkiller on an observation deck overlooking

a starship docking port. Valorum reports to the officer in charge.

VALORUM

Where is the ship?

OFFICER

It's on its way in. It will just be a few minutes.

Valorum returns to his squad and watches the large starship slowly move into

the docking area. He glances at Starkiller, who stands defiant, ready to meet

his fate.

Valorum continues to study Starkiller. The young Jedi returns his gaze.

Slowly, the spacecraft locks onto the docking port with a loud jolt. The

troops snap to attention, but Valorum grabs two laserswords and in one swift

move, switches off Starkiller's bonds and tosses him one of the laserswords.

Starkiller assumes a defensive stance, as the troops realize what has happened

and draw their swords.

VALORUM

This way!

The two warriors fight their way through a side exit. The door slides closed

behind them, and Valorum throws the lock, trapping the troops on the

observation platform. They race down the hallway and stop at an intersection.

VALORUM

This way! We can get a starship and be out of here before they've

discovered...

STARKILLER

I'm not leaving without the princess.

VALORUM

It's impossible; there are traps everywhere... You're mad!

Starkiller just grins and runs down the passageway leading to the detention

area. Valorum rushes and catches up. An alarm signal wails through the

hallways.

178. WOOKEE STARSHIPS - SPACE

The general leads three squads, of three starships each toward the glowing

planet of Aquilae.

GENERAL

There she is. Activate your deflection shields.

179. DETENTION AREA - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Valorum talks with the Captain of the Guard. He gestures wildly, like

something important had happened. Four troops run into the central detention

area leading the bound Princess Leia. The Captain of the Guard salutes

Valorum, and the Sith knight, followed by the four troops and Leia, leave the

main area.

180. DETENTION HALLWAY - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller appears boldly at the end of the hallway, facing Valorum and the

troops.

VALORUM

Get him!

The troops rush for Starkiller, swords drawn. They are no match for the

skilled Jedi. He makes short work of them, as Valorum frees the princess.

The trio then run into another hallway. The princess embraces Starkiller.

VALORUM

We only have a few seconds before they find us. All of these hallways are

sealable...

Starkiller spots a small garbage chute on the corridor wall. He goes and

looks into it.

STARKILLER

Is this pressurized?

Valorum nods yes, and they lift the princess into the chute and quickly

follow.

181. GARBAGE CHUTE - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The trio slides through a series of chutes, until they end up in a large room

full of garbage. Starkiller spots a doorway and struggles to get it open.

VALORUM

They're power sealed...We'll have to find another way, or some way to shut the

power off...

They search the smooth-walled room for another exit.

182. GOVERNOR'S QUARTERS - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Governor Hoedaack watches General Vader as he supervises the hunt for

Starkiller and Valorum. They watch troops move through the detention area via

TV monitors. Seekers buzz through the hallways. The general gets a report

from an officer on another monitor.

OFFICER

We've lost contact with the surface. There is a good probability of an

uprising. Even the IF links are out.

GENERAL

Use a substandard relay and put all units on alert.

The officer disappears from the monitor and is replaced with the Captain of

the Guard.

CAPTAIN

All sections D through P-12 are clear. We have reason to suspect they escaped

through the disposal system. We are checking....(he is interrupted by an

excited trooper who tells him something)....We've found them in Receptacle B-

29. You should....

A red light flashes on one of the other monitors.

GENERAL

Hold on...

A controller appears on the second monitor.

CONTROLLER

Starships approaching, three squads. Imperial design, but no clearance...

GENERAL

Full alert. Battle stations....

The general turns back to the Captain of the Guards.

CAPTAIN

You should have them on your screen.

Alarms sound throughout the fortress. Lights flash a warning.

182. [obviously an oversight - second 182] GARBAGE RECEPTACLE - SPACE

FORTRESS - AQUILAE

A floodlight switches on, revealing Valorum and Starkiller attempting to cut

open the door. The princess stands up and stares into the floodlight.

Vader's voice comes over an intercom.

VADER

I'm afraid I have no more time to deal with you. A senseless and futile

attack by your friends has forced me to take a rather unpleasant course of

action. Your execution will have to be expedited.

The intercom clicks off, and a loud rumbling begins to shake the room. With a

loud shriek, the princess points to the far wall; which starts to move toward

the trio. The situation looks desperate.

183. SPACE - WOOKEE STARSHIPS - AQUILAE

Laserfire from the space fortress creates a wall of death, which the three

squadrons of Wookee starships miraculously emerge through undamaged. The

general barks orders to the Wookee craft, and Chewbacca and his squadron break

off and start an attack dive. Laser fire from Chewbacca's brightly colored

ship hits one of the prime power terminals on the fortress surface. It

explodes, creating weird electric arcs, as it goes.

Han and the general also concentrate fire on the distinctive black power

terminals. Two more are destroyed in an arcing spectacle. A chain reaction

is set off, creating a series of explosions leaping across the surface of the

fortress from power terminal to power terminal.

184. GARBAGE RECEPTACLE - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The shock of the explosion can be felt over the rumbling of the trash masher.

The wall has moved within a few yards of squashing Valorum, Starkiller and the

princess. They are still frantically trying to somehow stop the relentless

wall, to no avail. The lights blink off, then on again, and the moving wall

rumbles to a halt. Leia breathes a sigh of relief.

STARKILLER

They must have knocked the power out.

Valorum runs over to the door, and kicks it open. They rush out of the would-

be death trap.

185. SPACE - WOOKEE STARSHIPS - AQUILAE

One of the Wookee starships is caught in a crossfire and disappears in a cloud

of smoke. Another ship for some unknown reason dives headlong into the

surface of the fortress, creating a huge explosion.

186. MAIN HALLWAY - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Starkiller, Valorum, and the princess are thrown to a hallway floor by the

explosion. They get up and start down the hallway again. A voice calls out

from a connecting corridor.

ARTWO

Hey! Over here.

The trio turns and see little Artwo standing at the other end of the corridor.

He waves his claw arm at them, and wobbles toward them.

ARTWO

The power core has exceeded the normal stress quotient by point eight. The

magnetic fusion pods have evaporated. There appears to be an immediate

danger.

VALORUM

There is a lifepod station at the other end of this sector... Hurry.

The group, followed by Artwo, make a dash for the lifepod, but are knocked to

the ground by another explosion, which rocks the hallway. A hole is ripped in

one wall, sucking debris into space. Everyone holds on to wall fixtures for

dear life.

187. GOVERNOR'S QUARTERS - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

Aides and officers rush through the office, as Vader tries to keep things

under control. Governor Hoedaack remains calm, watching the progress of the

battle. Vader turns to the governor.

VADER

They've pinpointed every terminal. It's impossible. What are they? Where

did they come from? An electromagnetic transfer has started....There's no

stopping it...

GOVERNOR

Continue the fight...

VADER

We've already lost control of the planet. We must abandon ship while there is

still time...Conditions are much worse than...

GOVERNOR

Continue the fight...This fortress is invincible. I will not give up.

A giant explosion sweeps through the office.

188. SPACE - WOOKEE STARSHIPS

The tiny starships race the chain reaction explosions across the surface of

the fortress. Laserfire is everywhere. one of the starships skimming across

the surface, lags behind and is caught in an explosion and disappears.

GENERAL

Han! Get everyone out of there. The whole thing's going to go....Return to

Gordon... Get them out.

Han relays the order to the Wookees, and then starships pull away from the

crippled fortress.

189. MAIN HALLWAY - SPACE FORTRESS - AQUILAE

The group has made its way past the hole in the wall and is climbing into the

lifepods. Starkiller helps the princess into one, while Valorum and Artwo get

into the other. Warning sirens scream throughout the hallways. Three troops

run toward the lifepods, firing laserpistols. Valorum returns the fire,

stopping the oncoming troops. Hatches are closed, and the lifepods eject into

space.

190. LIFEPODS - SPACE - YAVIN ORBIT

The two lifepods drift toward the calm of the planet's surface. Starkiller

and the princess embrace, and he kisses her tenderly. They watch the ominous

fortress grow smaller and smaller as they drift away. Suddenly, a great flash

replaces the fortress and rubble streaks past the lifepods. Several giant

explosions follow, then there is only a smoke cloud where the mighty fortress

once orbited Aquilae.

191. THRONE ROOM - PALACE OF LITE - AQUILAE

Queen Leia, in all her grandeur, sits on the magnificent throne of Aquilae.

Starkiller and the general stand to her right. Several old advisors stand to

her left. Han presents Chewbacca and a delegation of Wookees with a treaty,

gifts, and a medal of honor. They bow and exit. Han moves to one side of the

crowded court. Valorum stands next to him. They watch as the two robots,

Artwo and Threepio, approach the queen, and bow.

QUEEN

Your service to Aquilae is greatly appreciated. You are designated class A-4,

and will serve Annikin Starkiller, the new Lord Protector of Aquilae. Rise!

The robots rise and exit through the long entrance hall to the throne. The

queen turns and smiles at Starkiller and the general. The general and

Starkiller salute their new queen.

FADE OUT

END CREDITS