Introducing the First New Jedi of the Sequel Trilogy Era in Star Wars

Star Wars is set to expand its universe by introducing an intriguing new Jedi figure within the sequel trilogy timeline, bridging the narratives between the existing films. While fans are familiar with Rey Skywalker, who embarked on her Jedi journey amid the conflict between the Resistance and the First Order, a new character is poised to emerge in upcoming stories—one that could play a pivotal role in the future of the Star Wars saga.

Lucasfilm Publishing and VIZ Media recently announced an exciting new addition to the Star Wars canon: a manga titled Path of the Lightsaber, crafted by Kenny Ruiz, scheduled for release in 2025. Although further details are anticipated at the Star Wars Celebration taking place in April 2025, the initial synopsis indicates that this tale will unfold between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker. The narrative centers around a mechanic who discovers a lightsaber, embarking on a transformative journey towards becoming a Jedi.

An Introduction to a New Jedi in the Star Wars Manga

Timeline Context: Set Between Episodes 8 & 9

The narrative for Path of the Lightsaber Vol.1 captures attention with the protagonist, a mechanic named Nioka, whose adventure begins upon discovering a lightsaber aboard a derelict High Republic-era vessel. According to the announcement from Lucasfilm and VIZ Media, the storyline is described as follows:

The First Order rules the galaxy, but some still remember the Jedi Knights who once fought the Empire. Nioka, a resourceful young tinkerer, dreams of becoming a Jedi like the legendary Luke Skywalker. For now, though, she keeps a low profile aboard the Random Luck with her crewmate Barun, an enthusiastic supporter of the Resistance.

During an expedition to a mysterious asteroid, Nioka stumbles upon an incredible find—a lightsaber, the weapon of the Jedi. As she tries to figure out how to use it, she realizes others are after the artifact as well. With danger closing in, Nioka must protect the lightsaber and herself while learning what it truly means to wield such power.

But if she’s going to stand a chance, she’ll need someone to teach her the ways of the Jedi.

Set during the oppressive regime of the First Order and traversing the events between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, the cover art prominently features Nioka skillfully wielding a yellow-bladed lightsaber. However, the artwork also hints at conflict, showcasing First Order stormtroopers and a menacing figure who may belong to a new faction of the Knights of Ren, suggesting potential antagonism targeting Nioka and her ally Barun.

The plot promises to be filled with action and tension as Nioka strives to master the Force, confronting the legacy of the lightsaber she uncovers—once wielded by a Jedi from an era long past. Her journey raises intriguing questions about her whereabouts during the climactic events of The Rise of Skywalker and the Battle of Exegol.This introduction of a daring new Jedi candidate during the sequel timeline is undoubtedly significant.

Will This New Jedi Become Part of Rey’s New Jedi Order?

Nioka’s Quest for a Mentor

Nioka’s journey is particularly exciting when considering Rey’s future as the founder of a new Jedi Order, as depicted in the upcoming film directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. Although specifics remain under wraps, it is anticipated that Rey will work towards restoring the Jedi legacy in the aftermath of the sequel trilogy.Nioka’s search for a teacher right before the events of The Rise of Skywalker adds a compelling layer to this narrative.

There is potential for a significant encounter between Nioka and Rey—perhaps before or after Episode IX—where Rey might take Nioka under her wing, allowing the mechanic to become one of the first new Jedi learners. This possibility aligns with previous instances where characters first introduced in written media transitioned seamlessly to the screen, such as Vernestra Rwoh from the High Republic era’s The Acolyte.

Overall, fans eagerly await further revelations about this compelling manga at Star Wars Celebration in April, as there is much to explore within this new storyline.

Star Wars: Path of the Lightsaber Vol.1 is set for release in the Fall of 2025.