Porla the Hutt

Porla the Hutt is a lesser-known character within the expansive Star Wars universe. Often overshadowed by the more prominent Hutt characters like Jabba the Hutt, Porla the Hutt has had limited appearances in the Star Wars expanded canon. Belonging to the Hutt species, a race of large, slug-like, sentient creatures notorious for their criminal activities and influence throughout the galaxy, Porla shares many of the traits and characteristics of other Hutts.

Porla the Hutt first made their appearance in a narrative called "Bane of the Sith," which was published in Star Wars Gamer #3, a role-playing magazine produced by Wizards of the Coast that provided content for the Star Wars Role-Playing Game. The story, written by Kevin J. Anderson, takes place shortly after the events of the movie "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace."

In "Bane of the Sith," Porla the Hutt plays a relatively small but significant role as the ruler of an Outer Rim planet named Oluna Biqua. Porla resides in a luxurious palace, showcasing the opulence and decadence often associated with the Hutt species. Porla acts as an informant to Darth Bane, who is a Sith Lord escaping from pursuing Jedi Knights. Darth Bane seeks help from Porla to acquire a ship and a suitable pilot to aid in his escape.

Porla, realizing the potential danger and opportunities associated with associating with a Sith Lord, agrees to provide the requested help in exchange for a favor to be called upon whenever Porla chooses to do so. Darth Bane begrudgingly accepts the offer, while Porla makes arrangements for his escape by providing him with a pilot and a stealth vessel, which allows for a covert departure from Oluna Biqua.

This interaction between Porla the Hutt and Darth Bane also demonstrates the willingness of the Hutt species to engage in political intrigue and immerse themselves in powerful alliances, as Hutts are typically always seeking opportunities to enhance their power and influence, regardless of any potential risks.

While Porla the Hutt's appearance in the Star Wars universe is relatively brief and limited to this particular story, it serves as a testimony to the vast and interconnected nature of the Star Wars Expanded Universe. It also adds another layer to the diverse and shady world of Hutt characters that have made their impact on the Star Wars storyline, from the more well-known Jabba the Hutt to those like Porla who play smaller roles in the galaxy's drama.