The Young Padawan Characters in STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC Have Been Revealed
Lucasfilm has revealed some new characters that will be filling the story they are telling with their latest publishing epic Star Wars: The High Republic along with some new details.
This story is set 200 years before the Skywalker Saga begins with The Phantom Menace, and the first book in the series will launch with The High Republic: The Light of the Jedi.
It’s been explained that The High Republic was "a golden time. A time of peace and prosperity. A time when the Jedi really are galactic guardians, stewards of peace and justice." The initiative was also described as the "Jedi Knights of the Round Table" at a time featuring "space Vikings.”
The young and diverse Padawan characters that will be introduced in this series have now been revealed. Lucasfilm Publishing executive editor Jennifer Heddle explained:
“The High Republic Padawans really run the gamut in terms of skill, devotion, and personality. Some are reluctant to seek out adventure while some are perhaps a little too eager; some are extremely talented in the Force while others maybe have to work a little bit harder. We wanted to showcase a wide range of young people in the hopes every reader can find someone they relate to.”
Below you’ll find art featuring these new Star Wars characters and details that have been shared for each one.
Burryaga
Light of the Jedi author Charles Soule says:
“Burryaga is one of the few Wookiees to travel from the lush forests of Kashyyyk to study in the ornate halls of the Jedi Temple on Coruscant. While he is skilled with his two-handed lightsaber, it is Burryaga’s natural, effortless ability to sense the emotions of others that sets him apart from other members of the Order.” The Wookiee studies under Jedi Master Nib Assek, who learned Shryiiwook in order to more properly educate her student in the ways of the Force. Burryaga is gifted — but in any school, there’s always a golden child.
Reath Silas
Into the Dark author Claudia Gray talks about this character, saying:
Reath Silas, a Jedi apprentice who will see what the galaxy is really like. “Reath’s had a somewhat privileged apprenticeship because his master, Jora Malli, is a member of the Jedi Council. That means he’s spent a lot more time on Coruscant, in elevated diplomatic meetings, and that kind of thing — so the frontier is going to be a huge transition for him. Reath’s learning what he’s really made of.”
Lula Talisola
Writer Daniel José Older offered the following details for Lula:
Lula Talisola “is all about the Jedi Order. She loves it, can hardly wait to get Knighted, and wants to be the best Jedi that ever was. Besides being amazing and top of her class with a lightsaber, she’s loyal and compassionate and looks out for her two best friends, Farzala and Qort. Especially when they’re causing mischief.” Finally, one Padawan will get a harsh dose of reality.
Bell Zettifar
Soule added this in regards to Bell:
“Bell Zettifar is apprenticed to the legendary Loden Greatstorm, and he hopes he survives the experience. He and his master are currently stationed at a Jedi Outpost on the ore-world of Elphrona, deep in the Outer Rim, where they work to keep the peace and spread the light.” Though the conditions are harsh, and Bell spends most of his time training, the Jedi-to-be finds enjoyment wandering the iron hills of the planet with a charhound named Ember. Light of the Jedi features another Padawan, however, who trains under much different circumstances.
I’m curious to see how these new Star Wars: The High Republic stories play out.