Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 5.
Summary
Ahsoka episode 5 sets the stage for a possible link between Ahsoka and The Mandalorian Season 4, as it delves into Hera Syndulla's narrative and her ties to the New Republic.
Should Hera's journey carry over into The Mandalorian Season 4, it could intertwine with Din Djarin's mission to dismantle the remaining Imperial forces, thus establishing a connection between the two series.
The Mandalorian Season 4 could explore the issue of Imperial spies in Coruscant, connecting different storylines and advancing the investigation into the Empire's position in the galaxy.
Episode 5 of Ahsoka may have established a strong connection to the Imperial remnants storyline of The Mandalorian Season 4. Despite Ahsoka being seen as a pivotal and impactful addition to the Star Wars canon, it still takes place within the New Republic era. While Ahsoka introduces significant elements such as a second Star Wars galaxy and the World Between Worlds, fans are curious about how the series will fit into the world of The Mandalorian, which is leading up to Dave Filoni's upcoming Star Wars film.
The final episode of The Mandalorian season 3 revealed that Din Djarin and Grogu will unofficially assist the New Republic in locating Imperial remnants in the Outer Rim. This storyline is likely to continue in The Mandalorian season 4 and could explain Din Djarin's opposition to the Empire and Grand Admiral Thrawn in the New Republic Star Wars movie. However, there has been limited evidence of a crossover between The Mandalorian and Ahsoka, until the ending of Ahsoka episode 5, which introduced a seamless connection between the two shows.
Ahsoka's Hera Plot Can Confront Imperial Spies
To begin, it is worth investigating which specific aspects of the ending of Ahsoka episode 5 could connect to the storyline of The Mandalorian season 4. In the climactic conclusion of "Shadow Warrior," Ahsoka and Huyang managed to hitch a ride to Thrawn's galaxy using the Purrgil, while Hera Syndulla chose to stay behind. As a consequence, Hera will now have to face consequences from the New Republic for her participation in the unsanctioned mission to Seatos. This information was confirmed in Ahsoka episode 5, during which Mon Mothma informed Hera that the Senate oversight committee would deliberate on whether to revoke her command. Both Hera and Ahsoka were required to be present on Coruscant for the trial.
While this punishment may seem fitting for Hera's defiance of the New Republic Senate, there may also be more sinister motivations at play. Both The Mandalorian season 3 and Ahsoka have introduced the concept of Imperial sympathizers within the New Republic's infrastructure. It is possible that this extends to the Senate as well, with some members attempting to bring Ahsoka and Hera in to prevent their investigation into Thrawn's reappearance. This covert agenda may be unknown to well-meaning Senators like Mon Mothma or Leia Organa.
Hera's Story Can Continue In The Mandalorian Season 4
With this theory in mind, the connection to The Mandalorian season 4 becomes clear. Din Djarin, determined to eliminate Imperial remnants in the galaxy for Grogu's safety and the well-being of the Outer Rim, would undoubtedly seek to expose the Imperial spies within the New Republic's core. In the continuation of Hera Syndulla's story, which could unfold in The Mandalorian season 4, Din and Hera may find themselves working together.
The presence of Carson Teva, a character bridging Ahsoka and The Mandalorian, could extend beyond a mere cameo if Hera and Din collaborate to dismantle Imperial remnants within the New Republic. Carson, known for bending the rules of the New Republic to support his Rebellion allies like Hera, could assist her by connecting her with Din Djarin. As a former bounty hunter operating independently from the New Republic, Din would be able to provide the necessary unsanctioned assistance in their shared mission.
The Mandalorian Season 4 Can Deal With The Imperial Spies On Coruscant
If the theory about Hera's involvement in The Mandalorian season 4 proves to be true, it could provide an opportunity to address the presence of Imperial spies on Coruscant. The third episode of season 3 of The Mandalorian already confirmed the existence of multiple spies on Coruscant who are eager to see the Empire rise again, with Elia Kane being one of them. One criticism of this subplot in season 3 was that it felt disconnected from the larger narrative, aside from Elia's connection to Moff Gideon, and Kane's fate was left unresolved by the end of the season.
By focusing on Din and Hera's investigation into the true status of the Empire in the galaxy, The Mandalorian season 4 could reintegrate this subplot. This would not only align with the arcs of the characters who are exploring the remnants of the Empire, but also lay the groundwork for the upcoming Star Wars movie and further develop Din's character as he confronts someone who is directly linked to Moff Gideon. Moreover, bringing back Elia Kane in The Mandalorian season 4 would provide justification for the seemingly disconnected plot in season 3, while also strengthening the connection between The Mandalorian and Ahsoka through Hera Syndulla's potential assistance to Din Djarin.
New episodes of Ahsoka release every Tuesday at 6pm PT / 9pm ET on Disney+.