Leia, head of the New Republic, is about to address the Senate on Coruscant when a massive explosion rocks the meeting hall. Meanwhile, Han Solo and Chewbacca discover a secret plot against the New Republic, and Luke Skywalker faces a sinister foe who is determined to be the next Emperor--even if it means unleashing a galaxy-wide holocaust.
Award-winning author Kristine Kathryn Rusch brings her remarkable talents to the Star Wars(r) universe, where the New Republic faces sudden and total annihilation....

Somewhere in the galaxy, millions suddenly perish--a disruption of the Force so shocking it is felt by Luke at his Jedi academy and by Leia on Coruscant. While Leia must deal with an assassination attempt, a rumored plot against the New Republic, and allegations that Han Solo is involved, Luke seeks out a former Jedi student who may hold the key to the mass destruction. But Brakiss is only the bait in a deadly trap set by a master of the dark side who is determined to rule as emperor. He's targeted Luke, Leia, and Leia's Jedi children to die. Then billions will follow, in a holocaust unequaled in galactic history.