In this issue Luke Skywalker encounters a menacing Darth Vader at the Iron Tower on Aridus, and a new friend posing as an old one gives his life to save Luke and the natives of Aridus from Vader's treachery. Meanwhile, a Rebel scheme for destroying Vader's private cruiser unfolds, with the legendary power gems of the Pirates of Iridium holding the key. Han Solo and Chewbacca volunteer to retrieve the gem, but don't count on being thrown to the wolves in the bargain!