Prologue: Leia's Collateral

A few days after the fall of the Empire, the Rebels face an unexpected enemy. Jabba the Hutt has survived what happened at the Pit of Carkoon and is out to seek revenge. While it was not easy, Han, Leia and Luke were able to broker a deal with the Hutt. In exchange for peace, the New Republic offered to allow Jabba the trade routes and access to restricted planets of the Empire.

"We know you are mad Jabba, but nobody else needs to die." Luke stated

"Yeah, with the Empire now gone, we can make you a new deal for access to systems and better transport. With the war now finished, there's no point starting a new one when we can both profit." Han added

"Hmmmmm, and why should I trust a smuggler in debt?" Replied Jabba

"Then trust a Jedi, I can assure you Jabba we want nothing but peace and restoration of the Republic." Luke confirmed

"I am no fool Jedi, what can you offer as collateral that I already don't own?" Jabba said

"We can give you ships, a seat in the senate, and some cred-" Luke was cut-off

"No, not good enough. I have twice as much ships as you have, all the credits in the universe, and can seize control now if I wanted to." Jabba replied "No deal, No peace."

Han and Luke panicked as they looked at each other wondering what else they could possibly offer Jabba. They were starting to contemplate letting the Hutt Empire take over if that will result to peace. Leia however refuted the idea of a Hutt controlled galaxy knowing that countless of women can be subjected to forced slavery and harassment.

Leia stepped forward. "If we aren't able to meet your demands, then you can take me as collateral."

Han and Luke was speechless of Leia's offer and tried to make her back out of it. Especially, Han "Are you crazy? You've seen what he's done to you, what are you thinking? Don't do this we can find another way."

Leia replied "I know what I'm doing Han. I know we can stay true to our word, plus I can not allow Jabba to take over the galaxy. Better he can take me as a slave rather than countless other women out there."

Luke tried to step in too but Jabba called their attention "Listen to her boys, she knows how powerful I actually am as well as how valuable she is to me." Jabba warned as he salivated ominously.

Luke and Han reluctantly agree to the deal, walking out of the palace the Rebels heard Jabba's laugh echoing "HO HO HO..."