Obeying the will of the Force can be inconvenient at times. You learn that your plans, your ambitions must be put on hold from time to time.
I had entered a tunnel. It curved ever so slightly that you cannot see the one opening from the other period inside was darkness. As I emerged through the other side, I realized it was no longer where I was. I would learn, that I was on in the Batuu system.
Walking through a rough and sparse base for a group called the “Resistance”. I saw small fighter ships, and larger transports. Recruiters were out looking for volunteers. They were in a galactic war with a faction called “The First Order”. From the base I made my way to the Black Spire Outpost. It featured a small spaceport and many stalls for vendors. They traded in foodstuffs, gear, clothing, and toys for younglings. It appeared that tourist commerce was a main source of income. I quickly changed into the garb of the tourists, so that I might blend in.
From my data pad, I learned much about the area. There were many messages regarding black market activity. The First Order occupied the Spire amidst the traders, tourists, and of course resistance operatives.
I came across a force sensitive woman called “Rey”. She appeared she appeared to be well known, and very present throughout the outpost, yet stayed out of reach of the First Order. Their supreme leader being the black clad Kylo Ren. He was ever on the lookout for Rey.
Batuu is a hot world where their twin suns beam down on you relentlessly. Though an arid landscape it is particularly humid as well. I kept my water flask full and refilled often at the hydrator so as to not succumb to the heat.
There were plenty in need around the outpost. A traveling ewok was looking for a glider to explore Batuu from the air. Open messages abounded looking for those that would help look for things. I assisted the Resistance in their efforts however I could. Splicing consoles and downloading schematics. Scanning crates for resources. Decoding transmissions. To younglings and travelers, I would inquire about their journey and often gift them with a small token; a small silver coin with the mark of the Jedi.
Patrols of men in white armor regularly moved through the streets. They would harass local and tourist unlike. They were looking for Resistance sympathizers. Sometimes their supreme leader would be with them. Other times, they would threaten his involvement.
Another operative was a woman called “Vi”. She appeared to cohort with a wookie. I saw them from time to time during my stay in the outpost. Each time we’d see each other I’d smile and say “Bright suns” adapting to their local custom.
It was getting late in the day and I encountered them one last time.
“Bright suns!” I smiled.
“It is good to see you again.” Vi replied as they approached me. The wookie growled their introduction. His name stirred a memory.
“Chewbacca?!” the realization startled me.
He growled a friendly reply.
“Of course I know of you! You are a great hero! After the fall of the death star, you stood before a Princess Leia organa with Han Solo and Luke Skywalker. However, while they were lauded with medals, you received nothing. A horrible oversight to be sure. I want you to know that I noticed you and I appreciate you.”
Vi laughed, “He always talks about this!” she teased her friend, while Chewbacca humbly denied any hurt. “Do you have a medal for him?”
“Yes. I do.”
My reply surprised them both, as I reached into my pocket. Their eyes were wide with wonder. The Force was bright around us. This was why I was here, my purpose in Batuu. I retrieved one of the coins with the Jedi emblem on it.
“Chewbacca,” I said, placing the coin into his giant hands. “May the Force be with you.”
He let out a gladful mighty roar as he took the coin. He threw his arms wide inviting me to embrace him. I hugged the mighty wookie. I could sense his joy and his appreciation.
“May I capture this moment with a hologram?” I asked.
“Of course!” Vi beamed. We posed while I held out my datapad.
We parted ways, and soon after I was no longer on Batuu.
From The Maker: Most of this story is actually true and happened on June 14th, 2022.
