In the depths of outer space, between star systems where the Empire's nefarious plans could not be disturbed, the Death Star loomed, dark and deadly like its namesake. A lone Star Destroyer was alongside it, having only just exited hyperspace minutes before.
From the docking bays beneath the Star Destroyers superstructure, a single Imperial shuttle flew out, with an escort of two TIE fighters with it. Their destination was obvious, and as they approach the shuttle docking bay, the TIE fighter escorts peel off, returning to the Star Destroyer. Phasing through the docking bay force shield, the shuttle slowed its descent as it turned around, gently touching down amid a hiss of smoke and steam as the landing gear extended.
The Shuttle docking bay was alive with activity as Storm Troopers and Imperial Officers rushed into formation. There were hundreds of them, all in perfect rank and file as the ramp extended and touched down. Apart from the natural hiss of the shuttles engines cycling down and the shuttle door's about to open, the entire bay was bereft of noise.
Everything and everyone was in its place. Perfect military discipline, just the way Grand Moff Tarkin had expected it to be. He only expected the best from his men and as the shuttle's doors opened, every single one of them, flawlessly and together, as one, stood to attention as Lord Vader walked out.
Tarkin prided himself on his self-confidence and he stood at the bottom of the ramp was a casual demeanour as Vader walked down to meet him. With his sunken cheekbones and gaunt expression, Tarkin did anything but exude the qualities that had allowed him to rise high into the upper echelon of the Imperial Military. Though beneath his skeletal like frame was a man of extreme cunning and intellect, who would do anything to get the job done. Even if it meant getting his hands dirty. Or bloody.
"This better not be another waste of time, Tarkin," Vader said as he walked past Tarkin, walking past him as though he wasn't there. "The completion of this station has been behind schedule for far longer than the Emperor would like."
"Construction of a station such as this has its inevitable drawbacks, Vader. Even you yourself could not manage the workload that I get through in a day." Tarkin replied. "This station will be complete within the month. The Emperor has my personal guarantee on that."
"I understand that you have suffered a breach in your security." Vader said, his breathing dominating the air with its ghastly and unnerving sound as they walked through a lengthy and empty corridor.
"An unforeseen one I assure you." Tarkin said as they both came to a stop by an elevator.
"The Emperor does not like unforeseen events." Vader replied, his tone threatening.
Tarkin entered the codes for the arrival destination and looked up at Vader, caring little for his threats. "Nor do I."