Grand Admiral Thrawn and Darth Vader team up against a threat to the Empire in this thrilling novel from bestselling author Timothy Zahn. "I have sensed a disturbance in the Force." Ominous words under any circumstances, but all the more so when uttered by Emperor Palpatine. On Batuu, at the edges of the Unknown Regions, a threat to the Empire is taking root-its existence little more than a glimmer, its consequences as yet unknowable. But it is troubling enough to the Imperial leader to warrant investigation by his most powerful agents: ruthless enforcer Lord Darth Vader and brilliant strategist Grand Admiral Thrawn. Fierce rivals for the emperor`s favor, and outspoken adversaries on Imperial affairs-including the Death Star project-the formidable pair seem unlikely partners for such a crucial mission. But the Emperor knows it`s not the first time Vader and Thrawn have joined forces. And there`s more behind his royal command than either man suspects.