Introduction

The fate of the First Order remained closely tied to the tangled web of power within the Sith faction, particularly the relationship between Kylo Ren and Palpatine. As the final scenes of The Rise of Skywalker unfold, questions arise regarding why Kylo Ren did not rally the First Order to aid in destroying the Final Order. This article delves into the intricacies of their power dynamics and the operational challenges they faced, providing insights into why the First Order ultimately remained under Palpatine's control.

Palpatine's Vision for the First Order

At the inception of the First Order, the intent was clear: to establish a new regime under the shadow of the Sith. Supreme Leader Snoke began this journey, but it was Palpatine who firmly steered the ship, ensuring that the leadership structure was aligned with his own ambitions. As Snoke's chosen successor, Kylo Ren carried on this mandate, initially as a herald of Palpatine's return rather than an independent actor.

Kylo Ren’s Ambition and His Plot to Turn the First Order

Midway through the narrative, Kylo Ren's aspirations become more pronounced. After turning against his former master, Snoke, he begins to draft a new strategy involving the First Order. He believed outright that he could defeat Palpatine by himself, driven by a mix of pride and an underestimation of his former master's true power. However, this underestimation proved to be critical, as it blinded him to several fundamental realities:

Palpatine's Manipulative Skills: Palpatine, as the master manipulator, had long been attuned to the forces of the Force and the weaknesses of those around him. Ren's hubris was exactly what Palpatine was banking on to maintain his control. Ren underestimated Palpatine's influence over the ranks of the First Order, especially through his loyal puppet, General Pryde. Home Ground Advantage: Palpatine’s home base, Exegol, provided a significant strategic advantage. He had deep knowledge of the terrain and an army of cultists, amounting to billions, stationed in Exegol. This combination meant that any attack on Exegol would be met with overwhelming resistance. The Superior Fleet: Above Exegol, Palpatine's fleet was a formidable and unassailable force. The First Order's ships, if even attempting to enter the atmosphere, would be swiftly obliterated. The scale and power of this fleet were far beyond the capabilities of the First Order.

The final scenes of the film show Kylo Ren driving to Exegol, yet he never fully commits to the mission. Instead, his focus remains contradictory, oscillating between his desire to kill Palpatine and his need to claim the Final Order's fleet for his own benefit. His hesitation and the complex web of loyalties within the First Order, particularly the shifting allegiances of the Knights of Ren, foretell the ultimate failure of his ambitions.

General Pryde’s Role in Maintaining Control

By the time Kylo Ren reaches Exegol, the power dynamics have shifted significantly. General Pryde, who has become the de facto leader due to Hux's death, is fiercely loyal to Palpatine. His actions, such as summarily executing Hux without hesitation, demonstrate his commitment to maintaining Palpatine's authority. If Kylo Ren attempted to turn the First Order against Palpatine, Pryde would have no qualms about declaring him a traitor and rallying the remaining forces against him.

This scenario is reminiscent of the Knights of Ren's actions. Despite their initial loyalty to Ren, their shift in allegiance when compelling evidence of his betrayal emerged underscores the fluid nature of power in the Sith faction. For the Knights, continuing to fight for a questionable leader would have been counterproductive. Similarly, General Pryde's potential response highlights the imminent threat of a betrayal from Kylo Ren and the necessity of maintaining Palpatine's authority.

Conclusion

The First Order's fate was inseparably linked with the power struggles and manipulations within the Sith faction. Despite Kylo Ren's ambitions and the apparent potential of the First Order as a formidable force, Palpatine's enduring influence and the strategic advantages he held ultimately ensured that the First Order remained under his control. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into the complex interactions that shaped the Final Order’s downfall.