Darth Vader #17

Darth Vader #17After murdering the Shu-torun royal family and installing the young Princess Trios on the throne, Darth Vader‘s attempt to put down any rebellion on the planet continues with the assistance of the Force-sensitive twins Mortit and Aiolin. While making a name for himself, we see foreshadowing of other Imperials bristling at the Dark Lord’s flair suggesting that Vader may have to fight a war on two fronts before this arc comes to a close.

The issue also offers up the tragedy of a bounty hunter who should have thought twice before trying to pass off fake remains to Vader as those of the missing Aphra (who we know is a prisoner of the Rebellion).

Darth Vader #17 is a bit of a transitional issue. We do get to see Vader easily dealing with the individual threats on Shu-torum in style (such as using the natural landscape to destroy an attacking cruiser). As to Aphra, the Rebellion can’t hope to hide her whereabouts from Vader forever. The question is, what will happen when he learns the truth. Will he abandon his ally or come for her (either for rescue or to permanently tie up a loose ends)? Worth a look.

[Marvel, $3.99]