A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...
Prologue
As the Empire's grasp on the galaxy as a whole becomes tighter, a small group of systems has joined together to form a REBEL ALLIANCE against the power-hungry Imperials. Recent events have led them to uncover evidence that the Empire is building a WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION to eliminate any opposing factions.
With this knowledge their forces prepare an attack on the world of Despayre, where their sources indicate that the construction is ongoing. Upon the planet itself Lord Vader is completing a routine assignment by hastening the completion of the insidious machine designed to wipe out the rebels.
Meanwhile upon the world of Kashyyyk mysterious events are unfolding that deeply involve an ancient conflict that was thought to have ended a millennium ago...
Chapter I
A chill ran down the spine of the rest of figures still standing as the dark personage stepped over the lifeless body on the floor and merely stared at them with his cold uncaring visage. "I trust there will be no further delays, Admiral," the malevolent lord intoned. Before the other had a chance to reply, the one who had spoken noted the approach of an officer and raised his hand to forestall any answer. "Lord Vader, we are being contacted by the Devastator," the newcomer said. "Why is this so important that you felt it necessary to interrupt us?" the Sith said. "Sire, it is from the Emperor himself." "Indeed. I shall then return at once," Vader stated as he turn back to the newly appointed admiral. "Do not think that I will hesitate to return if my presence is again required," he said menacingly. Turning his back on the assembled throng, he made his way towards his shuttle. Behind him, the Admiral called out, "All right, get back to work unless you want more of the same." A shadow obscured the light of the sun and Vader glanced up to see the orbiting object to which all their efforts were being put forth. Without further delay, he stepped aboard the small craft and was soon ascending towards the Devastator.
As the dark form coalesced before him, the Sith Lord bowed deeply before it. "What is thy bidding, my Master?" he said. "Your presence is required elsewhere Lord Vader. What do you have to report regarding Despayre?" the Emperor said. "Matters have been dealt with," Vader told him. "Excellent. You will then proceed immediately to Kashyyyk. There you will rendezvous with the commander of the Admonitor. He has uncovered those responsible for the recent attacks upon Despayre. As you will understand upon your arrival, certain factions require assurance of his allegiance to the Empire," the Emperor went on. "I shall order our departure momentarily," he said, bowing once more. The ruler of the known galaxy vanished, leaving Vader to ponder his new assignment.
"Fan out, and be sure to keep the natives in line." As the contingent of stormtroopers obeyed him, Captain Niriz thought he saw something out of the corner of his eye. "Check over there," he directed. "I do not believe that will be necessary, Captain," a voice said from behind him. "Admiral," he said, "I thought you were remaining upon the ship." "Some things are best experienced firsthand," the other told him. "I don't like this at all, sir," Niriz said. "You don't have to like it," the admiral said, "You merely have to do it. I shall take my squad and check the southern area." "Fine," the captain said, "If you will excuse me, I will begin infusing the locals with the proper amount of respect." "Do you really think that is necessary?" the other commented, "If they did not already respect us, we would hardly be able to survive long among them. If you do have any trouble, tell them that Lord Vader will be coming soon and that should quell any uprising that develops." "The Sith Lord is coming here?" Niriz said, "Perhaps one of us should stay aboard the ship." "Very well, captain," the admiral said, "Return there and greet him upon his arrival." "Should I inform him as to the nature of our mission in your absence?" Niriz asked. "That will not be necessary," his superior replied, "I intend to have completed this assignment by the time he gets here." "You may have proven competent so far," Niriz said, "But don't allow your pride to lead you to make a fatal mistake, Admiral Thrawn." The alien smiled thinly as Niriz walked off.