Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #91

Good evening,

This article will concentrate on recapping the ninety-first issue of the first Star Wars comic. The cover showed Han Solo, along with a handcuffed Chewbacca, in front of several handcuffed younger Wookiees with an unknown character reaching out from the foreground. The story was called "Wookiee World." The issue had a cover date of January 1985.

Chewie, Han, and Lando had finally landed on Kashyyyk. Chewbacca was a bit on edge, which Han figured was probably because he hadn't been home and spent time with his family in quite some time. Solo reminded Calrissian of how the planet had once been a source of slave labor for the Empire, a terrible trade that was thankfully no longer in existence there.

The trio moved on until their path was blocked by a pale white humanoid and Chewie's brother-in-law, Vargi. The group decided to move on to Chewbacca's home. On the way, the stranger explained that his name roughly translates to the word "knife" in the Wookiee language. 

No one else was home at the time, but they decided to stay for a spell. At one point, Knife tossed one of his namesake weapons at the wall by Han and Lando, which killed a poisonous flame beetle. A few moments later, Chewie's son Lumpy arrived, only to be taken by a pair of Wookiees who pointed blasters at the heroes. 

Han tried to reason things out, only to learn that Knife was part of the slave trade revival on Kashyyyk. They were led away, and Han and Lando were chained together and placed in another room. While Lando worked to free them, several Wookiees were being loaded into a transport ship. Lando and Han came across the vessel minutes later and concocted a plan.

Han crept behind Chewbacca to release his bonds. The tall Wookiee then pushed his friend aside to save him from Vargi. The two relatives engaged in a fight before Solo intervened. The growing native crowd observed for a while before taking action. Things looked grim for Chewie, as Knife was ready to attack again. This time, his weapon was blasted from his hand by Calrissian.

Lando had stopped to free Chewie's wife, Mala, and the other imprisoned Wookiees before joining the fracas. That was enough to motivate Chewbacca to finally defeat his brother-in-law. While the Wookiees celebrated, Knife slipped away. Lando realized that he'd forgotten to reset the defense systems for his ship, the Cobra, and that their enemy would probably use it to leave the planet. Han was glad that everyone was okay, but wanted a rematch with their new foe as soon as possible. 

This was the first time that Kashyyyk was shown in a Star Wars comic book. Its only other previous appearance was in the infamous 1978 Star Wars Holiday TV special. The surroundings changed quite a bit from then to its movie debut in the Revenge of the Sith film, but it was good to see more Wookiees, especially Chewie's family. Knife would return in a few more issues before the title ran its course in 1986.

Next time, I'll cover the ninety-second issue of this series. The double-sized story shows key Alliance members engaging in a conflict with more Imperial remnants. A new character will burst onto the scene, and we'll learn that not everything is always what it seems. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #90

Good afternoon, everyone,

It's time for me to recap the ninetieth issue of the first Star Wars comic book series. The cover showed Princess Leia Organa split between her diplomatic duties, with Mon Mothma and Admiral Ackbar to her right, and her Rebellion associations with Luke Skywalker and Han Solo on her left, all with the shadow of Darth Vader in the background. The tale was titled "The Choice!" The issue had a publication date of December 1984.

The story started on Endor, as C-3PO and R2-D2 were waiting for the return of several Alliance ships. The first of which contained Leia, Mothma, and other Alliance delegates who had returned from Herdessa shortly after the droids did. Leia was feeling a bit discouraged about that journey (chronicled in issue #88), but perked up once she saw the arrival of Luke's X-Wing, accompanied by another craft.

She ran to catch up with her brother, who had visited a few planets along with the telepathic Hoojib named Plif. The other ship was the Moonshadow. Its crew of Rik Duel, Chihdo, and Dani emerged from it, along with the Iskalonian Kiro (who had been injured in a battle on the planet Shawken). Luke explained that he'd been trying to keep the pirates out of trouble and that Kiro had actually saved them from trouble. He wanted his friend to get the best possible medical care available, even though several Ewoks thought his container was full of something good to eat.

A short while later, Leia and Luke stood together, admiring their surroundings. Leia talked about her dual responsibilities of attending to diplomatic functions and becoming a face of the resistance against the Empire. Luke knew that what happened next would be a test, adding how their father had been much different before turning to the Dark Side of the Force. He hadn't told anyone else about their parentage and was certain that his sister's dilemma would resolve itself in time.

They then went to check on Kiro. The Iskalonian was happy to see his friends and grabbed a breather helmet so that they could communicate. Luke asked if Kiro had felt the danger that he'd saved their party from. It was suggested that Kiro had sensed it through the Force, but Luke was not about to train the lad, much to Kiro's surprise. He then retreated into his aquarium after being denied.

Elsewhere on Endor, a short while later, Ackbar and Mothma conferred with the representatives who had accepted the offer to join the Alliance of Free Planets. Everyone in attendance was welcome to participate, but they assumed that those who did not reply or were not present had given up their voting rights. Luke and Leia were walking around with the droids, while Rik and his crew were involved in a card game with several Rebels on the platform above. 

After Rik won the latest round, a Rebel accused him of cheating. Kiro stood up for his friend, as did Chihdo. The accuser blasted the Rodian, who fell from the platform. Luke used the Force to slow his fall and tended to him immediately. As the Rebels sided against the newcomers, Leia, the droids, and several Ewoks prepared. Moments later, they evaded a stray blaster shot.

Luke leaped up to the platform and activated his lightsaber to deflect blaster fire. He then jumped in front of the first gunman to ensure he wouldn't escape. Kiro then spoke up about Luke's bravery and how they all had to be patient with one another and work together. His words were more effective than any other actions taken that day. Afterward, Alliance leadership expressed dissatisfaction with decisions made, and agreed that Han, Leia, Luke, Lando Calrissian, and Chewbacca had lost their rights to assist in governing by their absences.

I felt like the title of this story was a bit misleading. Leia always sided with her friends, and it was rather short-sighted to blame the heroes of the Rebellion for their nonparticipation, especially since some of them were occupied with quelling infighting and others were still offworld. Nevertheless, it was good to see some of the familiar faces reunited, and that Kiro had recovered quickly. 

If you've been wondering what Han, Chewie, and Lando have been up to, you'll find out when I discuss the ninety-first issue of this title. We'll see the Wookiee homeworld for the first time, and Chewbacca's reunion with his loved ones. The heroes will also encounter another threat, from someone who will play a significant role in the rest of the series. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #89

Good afternoon,

The focus of this article is the eighty-ninth issue of Marvel's first Star Wars series. The cover depicted Luke Skywalker in the foreground with a large red humanoid appearing to lunge after him from behind. The story from writer Ann Nocenti and artist Bret Blevins was called "I'll See You in the Throne Room!" The issue had a cover date of November 1984.

Somewhere in the galaxy, Luke was helping a valiant group of freedom fighters overthrow the Imperial presence shortly after the Emperor and Darth Vader's demises. The group was led by a man named Raggold, who was unfortunately cut down just before reaching their final destination. Luke and his colleague Mary rushed to the old warrior's side. He explained that a traitor from within had struck the killing blow minutes before his last breath. 

The saddened duo ascended to the throne room to set their dear departed compatriot on the throne, where he belonged. As Blackart, the former ruler, was being led away, Mary reminded Luke that the people now had rule by the many instead of the few. People were free to do as they wanted. Despite Luke's concerns about theft, Mary's words rang in his head. 

Celebrations broke out across the city. At one point, Luke and Mary were planning to spend some quiet time together. However, the peace was soon broken by the return of Imperial warships. Their cannons fired down upon the population, and several shots hit Mary before she could return to the castle. Many of the citizens scattered in panic, while some took advantage of the chaos to plunder, including taking valuables from Mary's person.

Luke cried out and used the Force to levitate her to his side. She died in his arms, leaving the young Jedi heartbroken. He wished he could become a god in moments like that. 

Some time later, as Skywalker walked through the streets, he noticed a young scamp trying to swipe his saber. The child led him around town as he tried to find the traitor in their midst. A former Rebel was ruled out, as was Blackart, who had broken out of jail and was trying to flee the planet before the Empire's forces returned. 

Scamp eventually took the Rebel hero to his home in the slums. He was greeted by his family, including his father, who ravaged his boy's loot. The pair left soon afterward, with Scamp admitting that he kept his best treasures for himself. The lad took the Jedi to a tavern, where he would meet with an alien named Braxas. 

The elderly being told Skywalker that he had information on the traitor if he would pass a test. All Luke had to do was pick a piece of meat from a bowl filled with scorpions. He had to accomplish this without using his mechanical right hand. Luke used a pair of chopsticks with his left hand to grab the morsel, and succeeded, but opted not to eat it, as it had a scorpion's mouth affixed to the bottom.

A short while later on Luke's ship, Skywalker played the tape that showed Raggold nearing the end of their journey. He admitted on camera that he was the traitor in their ranks. He shot himself before he could be revealed by others. Luke understood, knowing that his former comrade had been killed by the war and by himself. He and Braxas then sailed away, evading the Imperial fleet while heading toward freedom. 

This issue was my introduction to Blevins. His drawings seem more appropriate for titles like Elfquest, Weirdworld, or other fantasy titles, but they were adequate for this story. Braxas reminded me a bit of an older version of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, albeit in a wheelchair. Mary was a good character, but she wasn't fleshed out much before her passing. The story was good, and it was a fine filler between parts of the main storyline. I just wonder what happened to Braxas after the events of this tale. 

That wraps up this article. Next up will be the ninetieth issue of this title. Several of the Rebels return to Endor after their various missions elsewhere. Leia feels like she's forced to choose between her diplomatic responsibilities and her loyalty to her brother, her lover, and other freedom fighters that she's battled side by side with over the years. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #88

Good morning,

Hope everyone's having a great Sunday! It's time for me to discuss the eighty-eighth issue of Marvel's first Star Wars title. The cover showed Princess Leia Organa facing off against a mysterious female opponent. The tale was titled "Figurehead." The issue had a cover date of October 1984.

The story started on the planet Herdessa, where C-3PO announced the arrival of the Alliance delegation, which included Leia, Mon Mothma, R2-D2, and himself. Their arrival was not entirely received with approval. There were a few boos and even a clod of dirt that was tossed at Organa. The native government promised to send their security forces, led by the cyborg Lumiya, to track down the dissidents.

It became quite evident right away that there were differing opinions on how the people should be led. Leia offered more freedom through membership in the Alliance of Free Planets, while guild spokesman Brylin countered that his word was the voice of his people, and that he had always decided what was best for all. A short while after the ship's arrival, the delegates met in a more secluded section of the city. 

Leia was tired of the discussion after a while and went for a walk. She was accompanied by Luke Skywalker's faithful droids. Before long, they saw Lumiya, who had apprehended the person who had thrown mud at Leia. Organa was more upset with how the young girl was being treated than with having mud thrown in her face. The girl talked about how laws protected the strong and the rich and killed anyone who opposed those laws.

The girl went on to say that she wished she'd thrown a knife, even though Leia was more than willing to discuss things and allow the girl to go free. Leia stepped in to try to release the prisoner, which angered the cyborg. Lumiya was distracted enough to free her captive and turned her ire on the Rebels, firing blaster bolts from one of her gloves at the trio of Alliance members after calling for reinforcements. 

Leia wanted answers and followed the girl to her hideout, followed closely by Threepio and Artoo. While she was trying to get to the bottom of things, Mothma continued to explain the Alliance's plans, although Herdessa's leaders had other ideas in mind. Later that evening, the security detail stormed the hideout. Leia was forced to flee and leave the droids behind. 

Ogana ran through the city streets alone. When she knocked on a window asking for help, the occupants quickly locked the window, shutting her out. She returned to the city headquarters and found out that their main trade was slaves, and that Mon and other fellow delegates were now prisoners of Imperial Stormtroopers. 

Lumiya led the charge and called for Leia to show herself. Mothma called for the townspeople to revolt against their oppressors, and her words had some effect. Lumiya was about to torture a captive when the girl she'd captured earlier caught her attention. The soldiers and troopers ran into the woods following her, not expecting anyone to fight back.

Leia shot at the cyborg, accidentally exploding one of the chief of security's power packs in the process. She and the other dissidents fought back and eventually overpowered the slavers. Afterward, the freedom fighter thanked Leia and her companions for their efforts. Things would be different on Herdessa, but this wasn't Lumiya's last fight. 

If you think that Lumiya looked familiar to another character that was featured earlier in this series, you're probably right. More details will be revealed later on during this title's run. This was an interesting issue. It was the first time I can remember where Mothma was involved in visiting other worlds to promote the Alliance's mission. I just wish that we had had a return trip to Herdessa to learn what the people did after overthrowing the slavers. 

That's it for this article. Next time, I'll cover the eighty-ninth issue of this series. Luke assists revolutionaries on another planet in overthrowing the Imperial yoke. However, their victory is tainted when word is spread that there was a traitor in their ranks. Luke will experience a painful loss as he tries to discover just who the traitor was. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #87

Good evening,

The focus of this article is the eighty-seventh issue of the first Star Wars comic book title. The cover showed Kiro, Luke Skywalker, an unknown face, Rik Duel, the Zeltron Dani, and a planet imploding. The story was called "Still Active After All These Years." The issue had a cover date of September 1984.

The tale began in Rik's ship, the Moonshadow, as he, Dani, Kiro, and the Rodian Chihdo were receiving Luke and the Hoojib Plif's transmission from their Rebel X-Wing fighter. The two ships were about to land on the planet Shawken. Shortly after landing, the group was met by Santor and his delegation.

Santor welcomed them all and talked about how the planet had been under Imperial rule until their forces withdrew recently. While Luke was there on a diplomatic mission, Rik and his crew were looking for ways to pass the time. Santor pointed out the nearby caves, which they could explore. Rik, Dani, and Chihdo went on, and Luke, Kiro, and Plif followed the delegates.

A guard at the cavern entrance provided the visitors with a light and allowed them to continue on foot. Meanwhile, the meeting was just beginning. Kiro became concerned by his companions' selfish interests and set out to check up on them after a few minutes. He soon found that he had reason to be suspicious. 

Kiro announced his presence, and Chihdo fired at him. The Iskalonian pushed the Rodian against a wall, which contained a switch that lowered the door in front of them. The four were now trapped in the same room together. They were starting to panic just before a ticking sound began.

Luke talked about the reason for his visit. When asked if he wanted any refreshments, Plif replied that he feeds on energy and had already helped himself to some earlier. Santor welcomed the Hoojib to consume as much energy as he needed before noting that his planet was once home to many Jedi Knights. 

The conversation was then interrupted by the cavern guard, who informed his superiors about the door closing and a strange hum that now filled that area. At the same time, Rik was trying to figure out how to get out. He asked Chihdo what he did that caused the door to close in the first place. The Rodian explained that he'd hit a switch, which he moved again until it snapped off of the wall.

Rik and Dani started to panic, especially after they noticed that not even Kiro's thin blade would be enough to help open the door. While Rik started blaming Luke for their predicament, Dani found comfort sitting next to Kiro. Santor informed Luke and Plif about the many traps that lay in wait in the caves that had been set by their ancestors several generations ago. Luke's Jedi instincts served him well, as he used his lightsaber to deflect blaster fire from a small turret.

After Luke destroyed the weapon, Santor explained the panel behind it that was now exposed. It was the intended effect of a doomsday weapon that his people had created. One of their ancestors thought that once something went wrong, it couldn't be fixed, and that it was better to just destroy everything and hope for something better to emerge after a new beginning. That device was constructed to start an artificially generated new Big Bang.

Fortunately, that person never got around to activating the machinery, but its secrets were lost to time when he passed away. Luke had only been able to eliminate its external defenses, and more potential threats still remained. As the heroes advanced, they encountered an energy barrier. It was time for Plif to step up. The Hoojib ate his way through the barrier and, in doing so, allowed the door to open.

The quartet was relieved to see their friends, but dismayed when they learned from Santor what still remained. Santor borrowed his associate Margan's beaded necklace to display what could happen. He used one bead to represent Shawken. He explained that if the planet exploded, its debris traveling at sublight speeds could create a chain reaction that would destroy other surrounding worlds. He demonstrated this by knocking the bead that represented Shawken into other beads, which went spinning off in different directions. 

A few moments later, Luke found a trapdoor. He and Kiro descended the stairs. After a while, they reached a pool. Luke was about to enter the waters and asked Kiro to hold his saber. Kiro was happy to oblige, since that was what he wanted. He hesitatingly held his friend at knifepoint before explaining that the next task was something that he had to accomplish alone. 

Luke was stunned but understood. Kiro swam off, using Luke's blade to guide him. He sensed something behind him. Kiro then turned and swung the saber at a stone face, which caused an explosive reaction. Everything went dark for a while. Rik, Santor, Dani, Chihdo, and Plif stood where they were for some time until a light ascended the tunnel stairs.

It was Luke, who was carrying Kiro on his back and using his ignited saber in one hand. He explained that Kiro had taken out the final trap and that the power went out once the final machine had been deactivated. Luke set his friend down gently. Kiro was alive, but his mental processes were buried at the time. He'd turned out to be the hero that none of them expected, but probably couldn't have survived the encounter without. 

I remember fondly enjoying this issue when I first bought it back when I was eleven years old. This was the start of a romantic relationship between Dani and Kiro, one that lasted almost all the way through the end of this series' remaining run. It also sparked an idea that Kiro might be Force sensitive. Otherwise, he probably wouldn't have been able to sense the final danger that lurked behind him. I would have liked it if Marvel had done a story where Alliance members returned to Shawken at some point. 

That's all I have for today. Tomorrow, I'll talk about the eighty-eighth issue of this title. Princess Leia Organa, C-3PO, and R2-D2 travel to a planet that is still in the process of deciding where it wants to be in terms of establishing its governmental controls and rights for its people. They encounter resistance and a new threat, one which may seem strangely familiar to some. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #86

Hi there,

Hope everyone's been enjoying their weekend. This article will recap the eighty-seventh issue of Marvel's first Star Wars title. The cover had Luke Skywalker back in the left-hand corner box for the first time in years, and showed Leia Organa reaching for a Stormtrooper's hand to prevent her from falling into a crevasse. The tale was titled "The Alderaan Factor." The issue had a cover date of August 1984. 

The story was set before the events of Return of the Jedi. Leia was on her way to catch a shuttle, with Luke, R2-D2, and C-3PO close behind. Skywalker was trying to persuade her to bring her blaster along. Leia insisted that she didn't have time, and wanted to impress upon the Yinchori that she'd be traveling with that she trusted them. Luke did convince her to carry an emergency beacon inside one glove, just in case.

Her transport arrived at the planet Yinchor before long, as did its escort: a pair of Imperial TIE fighters. The Yinchori commander pushed Leia to her seat before explaining that the Imperial governor Wessel had kidnapped their elders and promised to exchange them for the princess. 

However, the Yinchori didn't understand betrayal. Their ship was fired upon moments later. The distraction allowed Leia to push free. She went up to the gun turret to cover the pilot's flying. The craft was swift, and Leia managed to shoot down one of their attackers before the second TIE landed a damaging blow. The ship careened out of control. Leia pressed the beacon's activation button right before things turned black.

The beacon's signal was successfully transmitted to the Rebel fleet. Lando Calrissian and Chewbacca were with Luke when the signal arrived. Lando thought it might be nothing, but Luke was sure they had cause for concern. 

As the Yinchori elders sweltered in the heat of their planet's sun, Wessel sat in the shade with a subordinate. He ordered his troopers to find the ship that his men had downed to ensure that no one had survived. Meanwhile, the Stormtrooper who had been piloting the second TIE emerged a bit battered, but still determined to go on. He found the wrecked Yinchori craft and soon saw Leia alive but still strapped into the gun turret chair.

She awoke just to see the trooper using a metal rod to try to pry her free. He removed his helmet and announced that he was also from their homeworld of Alderaan. Leia was shocked that one of her own people would betray her cause. They started to argue, and their raised voices drew the attention of native beasts known as Rolk-Mangir. 

The creatures ventured toward the quarreling humans, who by now were tumbling on the ground. The soldier showed the princess his necklace, which contained a rock from their destroyed planet, right before one of the creatures lunged. Leia hesitated for a moment before using the trooper's blaster to free him. She continued to fire as they retreated.

As the Millennium Falcon was approaching Yinchor's orbit, and Lando was noticing signals from both Leia and Imperials on the planet, the Imperials were moving closer to Leia. They were following the beacon from the pilot's helmet. Wessel was confident that they would have their quarry in just a matter of time.

The Rolk-Mangir were still advancing and forced their prey up against a cliff. Leia ordered the trooper to jump first. She followed, but had to rely on him to save her after the ground gave way beneath her feet. He acknowledged their teamwork after they were both safe, and added that he'd purchased the necklace from a trader on Tatooine. 

That souvenir represented the death of millions of Alderaanians, which angered Leia. The trooper countered that he was just following orders as a soldier, and that he had nothing to do with the decision that obliterated their planet. He did attack her ship, but had no idea who was on the vessel at the time. Leia asked him to join the Rebellion, even though there was no promise that their dreams of a better galaxy might never come true.

Leia apologized, thinking that there was a man in the uniform. The soldier put his helmet back on and placed Leia under arrest. She heard the words, but all she could see for the moment was the rock hanging around his neck.

By this time, the Falcon had located the Imperial camp. The trooper brought Leia before Wessel. Now that he had what he wanted, he ordered the Yinchori elders to be disposed of. Stormtroopers opened fire on the captives right before the Millennium Falcon fired at the Imperial vehicle. The ship landed, and Leia made a break for it. 

The trooper reached for his blaster, but his hand caught on the chain of his necklace, breaking it. He stared at the stone in his hand before deciding what was most important to him. He fired at Wessel, saving Leia. The soldier rushed after her and was shot by his fellow soldiers just as the ramp was closing. He tried to hold on, but it was too late. The Falcon departed, and all Leia was left with were her tears and the souvenir that served as a painful reminder of the many sacrifices that were made for their cause. 

This was a very symbolic story. It was written by Randy Stradley, who would go on to co-found Dark Horse Comics. That company would publish several Star Wars titles after acquiring the publishing license in the 1990s. To date, this is Stradley's one and only story for Marvel. One interesting detail from this issue was that the Stormtrooper blasters were drawn as they appeared in the Kenner line of action figures, rather than in the Lucasfilm movies. 

If you've been wondering what happened to Luke, Kiro, Plif, Rik Duel, and company, that's the topic for my next blog post. It will all be covered in my recap of the eighty-seventh issue of this series. The group arrives at another planet that was formerly occupied by the Empire. Although that threat may be over, another menace still exists, one that the natives had all but forgotten about. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Star Wars (1977) #85

Good afternoon all,

It's time for me to recap the eighty-fifth issue of the first Star Wars comic book series. The cover showed Lando Calrissian, Han Solo, and Chewbacca entering a tavern full of unsavory characters, including the bounty hunters Bossk and IG-88 in one corner. The story was titled "The Hero." The issue had a publication date of July 1984.

Somewhere in the back room of a tavern, the human known as Drebble was cursing out Lando Calrissian, before Bossk, IG-88, and a Stenax. The bar owner promised revenge on his longtime foe and was prepared to offer good money for his capture. The money was tempting enough, but when asked why he was so hellbent on this, he explained that the former Cloud City administrator was a con man, double-crosser, and a cheat.

At that very moment on Endor, Lando's ethics were being brought into question by Chewbacca during a card game that also involved Han and a pair of Ewoks. Chewie eventually stormed off, but Solo knew it wasn't the contest that he was peeved about. The Wookiee was homesick and hadn't been to his native planet in quite some time. He longed to see his family, but still honored his commitment to the Alliance.

 A few minutes later, Wedge Antilles arrived to announce that Mon Mothma and Admiral Ackbar had called a meeting. On the way, the Rebel pilot asked his comrades if either of them knew of a man called Captain Drebble. Lando smiled and admitted to Han that Drebble was an alias he'd used at times while Han had been frozen in carbonite. It was the name of an old enemy that he'd decided to use when he was in troublesome situations.

Mothma and Ackbar began the conversation by discussing the Alliance's intentions of reaching out to residents of other worlds to offer assistance and invitations to belong to and have their voices heard in the new Alliance of Free Planets. Ackbar added that they were seeking the one known as Drebble to declare him a hero of the galaxy. He went on to describe Drebble's actions in helping to overtake the Imperial establishment on the planet Gamandar and taking on a notorious gang of thieves, both of which were perpetrated by Calrissian using his Captain Drebble guise.

Han volunteered himself and Chewbacca for a mission that would take them to the Keyorin system. Lando offered to tag along. They knew that course would take them past Chewie's homeworld, and thought it would be a good opportunity for their friend to see his family. He could even take one of their ships if he decided to stay for a while. This was a plan that the Wookiee wholeheartedly agreed to.

A short while later, the Millennium Falcon and the Cobra arrived on Keyorin, which was also referred to as the Hunter's World. Although none of them had ever visited the planet before, they understood its reputation. Han did all the talking with the planet's representatives and spoke to them in terms that they could understand, and promised to consider.

Afterward, the trio headed to the nearest tavern. While they talked in a corner booth, Bossk walked in. Lando and Chewie grimaced at the sight of the bounty hunter. Han was curious as to why they reacted that way, so Lando explained that he was one of the bounty hunters they pursued while the trail for Han and Boba Fett grew cold. Han realized that it put him in even more trouble, and was understandably upset by this revelation. The group eventually decided to move on and went to the bar to settle their tab. The owner emerged from the back, who was none other than Drebble himself.

The proprietor took one look at Calrissian and ordered his men to get him. The heroes raced out, only to find more people interested in them around another corner. They doubled back to the bar, where Bossk and a trio of hired guns were waiting for them. The Rebels were forced to flee.

On their way back to the Falcon, Lando told Han that the others they'd run into were from the planet Arcan IV. He'd met them before, when they were searching for the Dancing Goddess, a small statue that he'd owned for years. Lando had told the gang that Han was an expert at finding artifacts like that one. 

The group had no sooner ascended the Falcon's landing ramp when Drebble and his Stenaxes blasted them from the mouth of the entrance. Lemo and Sanda's gang members arrived, demanding Solo and the Wookiee. Drebble offered them freely, since Lando was the only one that he wanted.

A few minutes later, Han and Chewie found themselves in chains affixed to the ceiling. Lemo and Sanda were insisting that their captives tell them where the Dancing Goddess statue was. Han, of course, had no idea, but insinuated that he knew who would have it.

Drebble took Lando back to the Cobra, where he put his prisoner in chains. He was playing around with the ship's controls when he stumbled onto a recording from Mothma and learned that he was being sought by the Alliance for commendations and a decoration for bravery. This news surprised and delighted Lando's old foe. However, he had little time to celebrate, as Lemo and Sanda's gang were now outside demanding to know where the idol was.

This left Han and Chewie alone with a single guard. Chewbacca played dead, which tricked the guard into backing up against Han. The Correllian wrapped his legs around their tormentor until he released them from their bonds. Han then grabbed the guard's gun and had Chewie put him in a pair of bonds. They then went to find their friend. 

IG-88, Bossk, and the Stenaxes were ready to defend their boss. Lando offered a suggestion, but his plan would require the removal of the binders that were around his wrists. He and Drebble emerged from the Cobra with their hands up, just before Chewbacca and Han arrived. A shootout started. The battle was brief, as the Arcan IV gang members found themselves outnumbered by the Stenax assault from the air. Lando retreated into his ship momentarily before giving Drebble his "commendation," which was the Dancing Goddess statue that Lemo and Sanda had coveted.

This issue put a humorous spin on the Drebble character. I didn't care for him much at first, but he made a noticeable change in this story. Tom Palmer's inks really improved Bob McLeod's pencil work. I realized by the time I read this issue that penciler Ron Frenz had moved on to the Amazing Spider-Man title, but Palmer was still one of the best inkers for this series. It was good to see Lemo, Sanda, IG-88, Bossk, and the Stenaxes again. Drebble, Lemo, and Sanda would appear one more time before this title reached its end. 

The regular storyline will continue after another fill-in tale. I'll cover that issue next time with a recap of the eighty-sixth issue of this series. The story that takes place before the Return of the Jedi events recounts Princess Leia's adventures on another world that has fallen under Imperial influence. She meets an enemy who has something in common and learns a valuable lesson. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one anothe.