Emperor Palpatine, the powerful Sith Lord ruling the galaxy, had a fearsome enforcer in the form of Darth Vader. However, there was another individual in Palpatine’s ranks who held an even higher level of trust from the Emperor.

Mara Jade: Palpatine’s Top Apprentice & Assassin

Among the Force-wielding assassins working under Palpatine, there was one who stood out as his most trusted apprentice and assassin—Mara Jade. While Darth Vader led his team of Inquisitors to eradicate the Jedi, Mara Jade held a special place in Palpatine’s inner circle.

The Mission To Kill Luke Skywalker

In a pivotal moment during the events of Episode VI, Mara Jade was assigned a mission by Emperor Palpatine himself—to eliminate Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker. This assignment took place within the palace of Jabba the Hutt, where Luke was negotiating the release of Han Solo. The fact that Mara Jade was personally chosen for this mission speaks volumes about her significance and the trust placed in her by Palpatine.

Mara Jade’s Superiority And Trust

Palpatine’s decision to send Mara Jade after Luke Skywalker instead of Darth Vader reveals his lack of trust in his primary enforcer. It is possible that Vader’s past failures, such as his inability to kill Luke during their encounter in Cloud City, influenced Palpatine’s choice. Furthermore, Palpatine recognized Mara Jade’s unwavering loyalty and her potential to succeed where Vader might have faltered.

Palpatine’s Unwavering Trust In Mara Jade

Palpatine’s trust in Mara Jade extended beyond the specific mission to kill Luke. Her superior skills and abilities, particularly her unmatched stealth and deadly precision, made her a formidable asset. In fact, Mara’s peers acknowledged her as potentially deadlier than Darth Vader himself. This further solidifies Palpatine’s unwavering trust in her and demonstrates that she held a position of great importance within his plans and operations.