I recently finished the collection of short stories set during The High Republic period. There were a few stories following the events of Phase II, but the majority of them take place after the destruction of Starlight Beacon. I think the last bunch of stories really set things up in Phase III.
I do want to talk about one of the stories, which will contain some spoilers. If you do not want a big reveal ruined, then I suggest you stop reading and pick up this book…
The story “All Jedi Walk Their Own Path” by Charles Soule, follows Bell Zettifar on Eiram searching for Burryaga. It is a flashback story, with Bell remembering a time with Master Loden, while applying those teachings to his search for Burryaga. He eventually finds the Wookiee, and it is a heart-warming moment.
Well, it should have been completely shocking, but they ruined this reveal by announcing in a video for SDCC that Burryaga would be found alive. That was one of the best mysteries at the end of Phase I. Did Burryaga die? Would this drive Bell towards the Dark Side (I am still convinced that one of these High Republic Jedi will fall and become a Sith apprentice).
If people do not read this short story, then they will be confused when they begin Phase III, which will be set like a year or so after Starlight Beacon. Burryaga will just turn up alive and well. I guess they will just mention that he was found on Eiram. I do not know, I would have rather had a longer story, or followed Bell’s descent into madness. Is he trusting the Force, OR is he going crazy? But no, he searches for like a few weeks and then finds his friend. Again, the story by Soule is good, just did not satisfy that itch.
Oh well, I do recommend reading the book.
