Long after the events of Return of the Jedi, what remains of the turbulent Galactic Empire continues to threaten the planets of the universe that defeated it. And now that its turncoat leader has been killed at the hands of the lost Guard. Kir Kanos, an interim council is assembled to rule the Empire until a new Emperor can be selected. Political intrigue turns to murder mystery as, one by one, the Council members become targets for assassination, and Kanos becomes the prime suspect! A storm of murder, intrigue, and treachery threatens to forever alter the destiny of the Empire -- and that of a galaxy far, far away!