The Dagger of Mortis
During the initial run of Star Wars: The Clone Wars Dave Filoni explored the intricacies of the Force. In a three episode arc during the third season dubbed, The Mortis Trilogy, we find Obi-Wan, Anakin and Ahsoka trapped on an unknown world. It’s here we are introduced to the Father, the Daughter and the Son who have a very intriguing connection to the Force. So what could this have to do with The Rise of Skywalker?
So, what is Mortis?
First let’s get a little background on Mortis.
Mortis is a realm of the Force which contains dreamlike environments. You will not find it on any map, and even the landmarks within appear in different locations frequently.
During the day it is a time of peace where luminous creatures move about lush fields, green mountains, and stunning vistas. Dense forests, molten caverns, and floating mountains can be seen above the surface. You will notice that the light has a healing quality to it, yet there are no stars in sight.
When night falls the plants wither and die, the creatures vanish, and the stars that shine in the black sky are unidentifiable. Scalding rains sweep the terrain which makes survival without shelter almost impossible.
Time within Mortis has no meaning. What seems like days or weeks within the realm is simply seconds outside of it.
The realm of Mortis is inhabited by three intelligent beings, Force users, and they are locked in a never ending struggle for dominance over one another. We have the Son, who represents the destructive and deadly aspects of the realm, The DARK SIDE. The Daughter, who represents peace and creation on Mortis, The LIGHT SIDE. Finally, the Father, who maintains balance of the Force between all of them. Mortis is considered a fulcrum for the Galaxy. A conduit through which the Force flows.
Mortis draws in its visitors inexplicably. It will manifest itself in different ways appearing as a giant metal rhombohedron floating in space. Other times individuals have walked through doors or landed there without reason.
Clone Wars and The Dagger of Mortis
During the Clone Wars, an immense monolith appeared in the Chrelythiumn system, broadcasting an ancient Jedi distress code. Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka Tano investigated the kilometers-wide artifact, and were drawn into a paradise realm inhabited by unspeakably powerful Force-wielders. These god-like beings were locked in an eternal struggle for dominance, which made Mortis the fulcrum of the entire galaxy and the Force (source)
It’s discovered that the Son, the embodiment of the Dark, looks to overthrow his father as ruler of Mortis.
Before the Jedi can leave Mortis, the Son takes Ahsoka captive in an attempt to entice Anakin into joining him to use their combined strength to overpower his Father and Sister. To this end, the Son casts Ahsoka under the spell of the dark side. Meanwhile, the Father attempts to stave off a disastrous showdown between his children and maintain the Force’s increasingly precarious balance on the planet. Fearing that the Son may be unstoppable, the Daughter does the forbidden by taking Obi-Wan Kenobi to the Altar of Mortis, wherein is kept the Dagger of Mortis, a weapon capable of killing a Force-wielder. The Son steals the weapon, and attempts to use it against his Father to steal his power and end his rule, but the Daughter sacrifices herself, placing herself in front of the blade. (source)
The Dagger of Mortis is not only capable of killing a Force-wielder but, can rob those who are immortal of their immortality.
With that in mind there could be a connection between Mortis and Star Wars Episode IX The Rise of Skywalker. Eagle eyed viewers of the latest trailer have noticed a dagger which Rey is holding. This appears to be a pivotal moment in the film.
It’s worth noting, the pedestal in front of Kylo and Rey in these photos could actually be an altar of sorts. Some fans have suggested it is a statue of a Sith Lord (Sidious, Plagueis?) or even the burned helmet of Vader. But could it be the altar in which the Dagger of Mortis was housed?
What’s the Likelihood of seeing the Dagger of Mortis in Episode IX?
With rumors swirling around about Kylo, and possibly Rey, searching the Galaxy for what gave Snoke his power. It completely makes sense that something as connected to the Force as the Dagger of Mortis would be used in the film. Due to its nature it wouldn’t need an in-depth explanation, nor would it need to explain its connection to those episodes of the Clone Wars.
Another theory we could look at is about Palpatine. Perhaps the Dagger has help keep him alive for the last 30+ years watching and waiting in the shadows for the perfect moment to reveal himself and take back control of the Galaxy.
“ONCE MORE THE SITH WITH RULE THE GALAXY!”
If this is the case then Rey needing the Dagger to destroy Darth Sidious would not only make sense but be an interesting idea for the movie.
There is quite a bit to unpack in regards to the Dagger of Mortis/Episode IX theories.
BONUS Theory
Staying in line with the Mortis idea. Imagine Rey as the Daughter and Kylo as the Son. The two sides of the Force at battle with each other. Kylo, much like the Son struggles with the Darkness. Could be an interesting idea, but unlikely they go that deep with the sequel trilogy.
What do you think? Could we see the Dagger of Mortis in The Rise of Skywalker? Or could it be some other ancient artifact that has a connection to Sidious or the Force?
Let us know your thoughts and theories in the comments below.
If you are looking to check out the Mortis Trilogy arc of the Clone Wars here are the names and Episode numbers.
Overlords – Season 3, Episode 15
Altar of Mortis – Season 3, Episode 16
Ghosts of Mortis – Season 3, Episode 17