Cover Artist: Steven D. Anderson

"Fool's Bargain" is an interesting story told from the perspective of a squad leader in the 501st legion, roughly 20 years after the Battle of Yavin. The 501st is now commanded by the Empire of the Hand, which is a far more benevolent organization than the Empire was. This current mission follows the actions of one four-person squad as they attempt to liberate a planet from an unknown warlord. We see them build trust with the people who live on the planet, and utilize the skills that the natives have in order to complete their mission.