Nine years, four months, and nineteen days after the Battle of Yavin…
Or the forty-fourth year, four months, and nineteen days after the Great Resynchronization.
The distance between the planets Myrkr and Wayland is just under three hundred and fifty light-years. And it can be covered relatively quickly by the standards of a galaxy far, far away - in a few days. If you push it.
— I order to move at maximum speed, — Captain Pellaeon voiced his decision.
— There is no need for such haste, — I stated, settling into a chair on the bridge of the Chimaera. The green surface of Myrkr slowly floated before my eyes. A world we are leaving. Today, but not forever. — Wayland has waited for us for many years, it can wait a few more days.
— Of course, Grand Admiral, — during the time that Lieutenant Tshel and the squads on the surface, with the help of Karrde's people, were collecting ysalamiri and delivering them aboard the Star Destroyer, I had plenty of time to familiarize myself with the military regulations of the Galactic Empire. And one must give credit to those who created them – it is written with extreme precision, as befits a document regulating the activities of military organizations. No ambiguous interpretations, everything is clear, understandable, effective. You look at what is written and you understand, filled with faith in order, clarity of organization and...
And all. Now some of Thrawn's actions to improve the coordination of his subordinate forces become clear.
Along with the elite of the army and navy, who died in recent years, many military traditions, discipline, and much more have also been lost in the past. Now it is clear why the Imperial fleet, which in its best years numbered millions of warships – from Super Star Destroyers, Star Destroyers, to gunboats and auxiliary vessels – so quickly fell into decline. After the death of Palpatine, trained military personnel, a sea of equipment, and a desire to fight ended up in the hands of ambitious military leaders who had the same plans as I do now – to build their own states. It is not surprising that in five years of incessant internecine strife, the Imperials themselves destroyed everything they had.
It is a pity that this happened, but there is no point in grieving about it - what was, is gone. We had to deal with what we have now.
— Tell me, — Pellaeon quietly addressed me, — do you really think that Karrde will want to work for us?
— On the contrary, Captain, — I said. — Our mission was aimed at precisely the opposite.
— Excuse me? — Pellaeon stared. — I thought we needed his help...
— And we got from Karrde what we needed, — I pointed to the metal cage in which an ysalamiri was perched on its favorite tree branch. It was not a difficult task for the Chimaera technicians to assemble such devices. And now almost all the lizards have become the owners of their own cozy houses. — As for the rest, there can only be problems with him.
— From a simple smuggler? — Pellaeon said skeptically.
— One should not underestimate this kind of sapient contingent, — I said. — Karrde not only supplies goods, but is also an information broker. Highly respected in his society. If necessary, he will be able to organize all these rabble, who are not dangerous in themselves, but when they flock together... They can interfere with us.
— Then, perhaps, the problem should have been solved radically? — the captain clarified. I winced. In general, the Empire's regulations did not assume such free communication between senior officers. But too much time has passed since the letter of the law was followed to the last comma. However, not to reward Pellaeon with a blazing gaze, reminded him of subordination. The captain, in general, is a quick-witted man, immediately understood what was what. — Admiral, my gunners can raze his base to the ground in a couple of minutes, and the rest will be finished off by ground units...
— You weren't listening to me carefully, Captain, — there is no point in even reacting to the officer's words with negativity. Pellaeon thinks within the limits of his knowledge. If he knew what I know, in particular, what role he can play in the future of known events, he would not be so categorical. — Karrde is, in a sense, an unofficial leader for most smugglers. Before all this process was run by Jabba the Hutt from Tatooine, but he was killed by the rebels. The criminal empire was left without a leader. Everyone grabbed as much as he could and his competitors allowed. But Karrde is the first among them. He provides them with work, organizes transportation. An ideal intermediary between performers and customers. Which means, should something happen to him under the current circumstances, the entire criminal world will turn against us. Of course, if we are directly involved in his problems.
— We have dealt with worse, — Pellaeon stated confidently.
— May I remind you that the Empire was crushed by a group of ragtag people who barely had four squadrons of fighters and outdated bombers by the time of the Battle of Yavin? — I looked at the commander of the Chimaera. — Perhaps it is worth ceasing to underestimate the enemy? And then we will win.
Pellaeon was silent, clearly pondering my words.
— Sir, — he broke the silence. — But then what do you intend to do with Karrde?
— To destroy his organization, forcing his own associates to turn away from him, — I explained. — You see, Captain, Karrde positions himself as a neutral party. But that doesn't happen. He has already chosen those he sympathizes with, and unfortunately, it's not us. The Empire is only needed for him to conduct his business, but in his heart he is on the side of the victor. And he considers the rebels to be such. The disorganization of the New Republic allows smugglers to find loopholes in the law and opportunities to continue their activities. It's hard to believe, but even we are now dependent on them. Smugglers have access to our territories, they are engaged in the delivery of goods, food, and luxury items to our planets. They know our defense systems and the loopholes they will certainly take advantage of, should we push them to the wall. Therefore, as an organized force with clearly defined goals and a clearly defined leader, they are a threat to us. But when they are divided into numerous groups, each of which pursues only one goal - its own profit - these are acceptable methods of cooperation for us.
— Are you hoping that Mara Jade will play her role in the discord of Karrde's organization? — the captain suggested.
— It is unlikely, — I sighed. — Mara Jade is an asset of a different kind. She has a hypertrophied sense of gratitude to those who are significant to her and help her in difficult times – and therefore she believes in Karrde and his ideals. Our meeting sowed the seeds of doubt in Jade's mind. The "Claw" will continue to search for information about Jade's past. His employees, having learned that she is well known to the high-ranking officers of the Empire, will begin to grumble and assure him of the risk of keeping such an asset. And Jade herself, not only received the first signal that her employer is not as clean-handed as he wants to seem, but will not calm down until she satisfies her curiosity - until she learns everything about Karrde.
— Do you think he has something to hide? — Pellaeon asked.
— A smuggler? Who trades with both the Empire and the New Republic, but tries hard to pretend that he is equally indifferent to all sides of the conflict, but provides his services on credit to the rebels, and not to us? — I clarified. — I'm sure of it. However, the question is how much this will serve our goals.
— You want to lure Mara Jade to our side? — Pellaeon understood. — Since she is an idealist, Karrde's dirty laundry may force her to leave him and transfer his secrets to our disposal?
— Bravo, Captain, — I smiled. — Yes, this interesting young woman is an extremely valuable acquisition for us. But no, as soon as she leaves Karrde, he will carefully hide all his secrets and change locations. He is smart enough not to fall for such simple traps. No, all this crude bravado should serve many purposes. And, considering that Karrde is sufficiently aware of my identity, as is Mara Jade, both of them will certainly wonder if there is a catch, if it is done so rudely? And if Karrde, finding no confirmation of his assumptions, calms down, then Mara Jade – never.
— I'm sorry, but I don't understand what use she will be, — the commander of the Chimaera admitted.
— She is a former Emperor's Hand, — I explained, noticing how the officer's eyes widened. — An elite agent of the ruler himself. The one who hunted down unscrupulous imperial officials, officers, and other threats to the Galactic Empire. Her qualifications are higher than those of various army or naval special forces units that are at our disposal. To carry out what I have conceived, I need a lot of time, resources, and all the resources that we can possibly have. And it is not always necessary to wave your flag if you want to achieve your goals. Therefore, where we will not work by force, she will be by cunning.
— If she joins us, — Pellaeon clarified.
— Not "if", — I clarified. — "When". Give her time, Captain. Her worldview, everything she values – all this is connected with us. As soon as the threads connecting her with Talon Karrde are broken, she will return. Of course, you shouldn't trust her right away. Or maybe not at all. But this will become clear over time. Well, and now, — I turned the chair so that I could see the bridge watch. — Order to set a course for Wayland. It's time to forge our victory, Captain.
— Yes, Grand Admiral, — Pellaeon answered briskly, heading towards the "pits".
Stealing a smile, I got up from the chair. Nodding to Rukh to follow me, I headed to my cabin.
The bridge of the Imperial Star Destroyer.
***
— Did you install the beacons? — I asked the Noghri when we left the Chimaera bridge.
— Yes, Master, — Rukh said, walking slightly behind me.
— How many?
— Eighteen, — the Noghri purred.
— And you weren't noticed? — I was surprised.
— No, — Rukh replied.
Eighteen beacons designed to track objects even across light years. And they are all now installed on Talon Karrde's goods, prefabricated modules, and ships. Let's see what it leads to.
But the very fact that The "Claw" people did not notice a Noghri installing tracking devices speaks of two mutually exclusive things.
Either the Noghri's professionalism is so perfect, or we were allowed to think that it is.
In any case, there will be some reaction.
It is not a fact that it will be possible to establish the location of Karrde's hideouts and warehouses, but at least it is worth trying.
Now, a completely different task was before me - to master the secrets of Emperor Palpatine's treasury, hidden in the depths of Mount Tantiss on the planet Wayland.
Data about this world is contained in one of Thrawn's code cylinders, and, it must be admitted, there is a lot of information there. Including notes from the Grand Admiral himself.
So, the planet is located in a homonymous star system, in a region known as the Outer Rim, in the Ojoster sector. On the tactical coordinate grid, according to imperial archives and navigation databases, the coordinates of the planet lead to an area of the galaxy in the "square" N-7.
However, the planet itself is unknown to the galactic community - for the most part. Some high-ranking Imperials knew or suspected that somewhere there was a planet on which the Emperor's secret warehouse was located. But no one could specifically link their assumptions to Wayland. Or didn't try.
Except for Thrawn. He received information about the true purpose of the planet about a year ago, having gathered together such small pieces of information that no one would have even thought of. In a year, such a huge amount of information has been processed that it is impossible to imagine...
So, what do we have.
The planet was first discovered and colonized in the period before the Mandalorian Wars - a little over four thousand years ago. The Old Republic used Wayland as a location for a field hospital - and this information, coupled with the fact that Wayland is not marked on galactic maps, became the first clue for the Grand Admiral.
Information about the supply of by Palpatine during his role as Supreme Chancellor of the Old Republic.
He secretly ordered the restoration of an abandoned fortress on the planet. But he did not rush to enter it into any registers. Which led to one single thought - the future Emperor planned to use the planet for his own purposes.
And why would a person like the Emperor need a secret planet? That's right - for anything the heart desires. Starting with experiments with the Force, ending with a personal clinic.
But the final answers, thanks to which the pieces of data came together, became one single fact.
Three years before the Battle of Yavin, the Empire built a research station and a security network node on Wayland. Which was hacked by the rebels, who, with the help of this trick, were able to gain access to the test sites of the Incom Corporation. This is how the Alliance got the notorious X-wings...
Thrawn paid particular attention to the fact that the employees of the security network post were forbidden to leave the base deployment site. Naturally, the few officers and soldiers who were out of the way didn't care about the opinion of the distant authorities – that's why what happened, happened – the rebels managed to take advantage of their negligence for their own purposes.
When everything was revealed, they naturally suffered punishment - but for some reason, not the most severe. The soldiers were scattered to various garrisons, the officers were demoted... But they could have been executed. Like their commander, who was suspected of trading state secrets. Agents of the Imperial Intelligence managed to prove that the commandant was not clean-handed, and therefore - everything that happened was by no means an accident. The verdict was carried out.
Thrawn noted that the agent's report contained information about the personnel of the station and the security service node. Finding those of them who remained alive was not difficult. As well as finding out about the existence of Mount Tantiss on the planet. Which is equipped with the latest technology – at least the external security systems. And at the same time – there is not a single stormtrooper on the planet. But there is a Guardian - someone who wields the Force. The personnel of the center did not know his identity, as they tried not to be so close to the mountain.
Suspicious, isn't it? Especially considering the fact that the Emperor himself visited the planet from time to time...
Not to mention that in the upper echelons of the Empire there were persistent rumors about the involvement of one of Palpatine's assistants in what happened on the planet Cartao and the destruction of an advanced industrial facility that was supposed to create cloning cylinders by order of the then Galactic Republic...
The Grand Admiral knew his immediate superior - the Emperor - well enough to understand that such rumors do not circulate just like that. And therefore, something or someone is behind them.
One way or another, these small details were enough for Thrawn to understand that there is definitely something interesting on Wayland. Guardians, who wield the Force, are not just sent to backwater planets...
And for a conversation with someone who might turn out to be either a Sith or a fallen Jedi, with whom Thrawn already had experience, the Chiss needed a huge trump card. And they became ysalamiri, blocking the Force.
The Jedi and Sith rely on this invisible energy in almost everything. Their entire essence is tied to interaction with the Force. Depriving them of contact with it - and the dialogue can be conducted from a position of strength, and not appear as a beggar.
Thrawn did not know for certain what secrets he could discover on Wayland. And he did not rule out the possibility that there might be no secrets at all - after five and a half years after the death of the Emperor, a lot could have happened. Including - other forces could have visited the planet, seizing its wealth in their own interests.
However, only those who do nothing do not make mistakes.
And therefore, Thrawn could afford to spend several days and even years preparing for a visit to Wayland - because, if successful, he could become the owner of truly rare and interesting things. After all, any technical or other achievement can always be used for one's own benefit. Or to the detriment of someone else.
From the books on the Expanded Universe, I knew what exactly Thrawn would take from Mount Tantiss. And I knew how he disposed of it. I also knew that all the Grand Admiral's efforts would go to waste if they were not corrected, taking into account post-knowledge.
And this is the most frightening thing. What to do when the "goodies" run out or the story from a single action will go completely differently than it is known in the trilogy? We need a backup plan. And a very, very good one.
There are several days ahead of me, which will be enough for me to properly study the imperial military documents, at least roughly familiarizing myself with what exactly is at my disposal.
And, perhaps, we should start with what the Imperial Remnant actually represents now.
But, tomorrow. Today I am in the mood to comprehend the wisdom of the military art of the Imperial fleet. Well, let's start reading lectures for cadets...
"The main task of the commander of any warship is the maximum efficiency of the execution of the tasks assigned to him..."
Well, it will be interesting.
***
To my own surprise, the study of imperial military doctrines took me much longer than planned - two days. And yet, "I swallowed it and want more."
But no. Everything - in moderation. It is necessary to enlighten oneself not only in the military, but also in the political plane. Especially before arriving on Wayland, which is only half a standard day away - twelve hours.
Of course, compared to what the Galactic Empire had at its disposal five years ago, now... it's not much.
But it's not empty either.
What is now called the Empire, or the Imperial Remnant, is no more than a Confederation consisting of territorial entities that continue to adhere to Imperial order in one way or another. They are ruled by various sapient beings, with whom it is not only impossible to achieve unity, but also harmful. For me and my plans.
So, the Empire is actually squeezed to the outskirts of the galaxy - to the part that is called the Unknown Regions.
Regions and territories of the galaxy.
The central part of the galaxy - the Deep Core, is currently controlled by the Imperials, independent military leaders who seem to be Imperials, but they do not care at all about what is happening around them. In the Deep Core, they are safe - the paths leading there are well known, easily blocked, and any random guests, like the New Republic, will not be able to break through unnoticed due to the difficulty of astrogation in this part of the galaxy. Gravitational anomalies, black holes, and other "charms" are a much more perfect defense than even a fleet of hundreds of capital ships.
The military leaders of the Core ignore all calls to join the Imperial Remnant, and for many Imperials, such demarches are not clear. After all, if the Imperials were united, at least within the framework of the same Confederation, the New Republic would have a very hard time, since the military leaders in the Core have huge forces under their command. However, there is no unity among the Imperials. And the main reason for this is the excessive ambitions of the Imperials themselves. Well, we will work with what we have.
One of the largest Imperial Remnants is what still calls itself the Empire. Or the Imperial Space.
The scheme of the location of the Imperial Remnants in the Unknown Regions (The Zsinj Empire as a state formation no longer exists at the moment, having lost its territories up to the Hydian Way in favor of the Empire).
The capital of the Empire is currently the planet Orinda, where the Imperial Ruling Council sits, which supported Thrawn in his desire to destroy the New Republic. The Empire provided Thrawn with the ships of the fleet at his disposal, as well as some financial support. The planet Wayland, to which the Chimaera is now moving, is located on the very edge of the Imperial Space. And therefore, the rebels will not go there - not only because they do not know the coordinates of the planet, but also because they simply do not have enough forces to guard their vast territory, and also organize a full-scale invasion. They have enough of their own problems now, therefore, to strike them in the near future in order to weaken them is more than a tempting option.
In addition to providing Thrawn with a fleet, the Imperial Space also transferred to his disposal shipyards on the planet Bilbringi, Tangrene, Ord Trasi, and in a number of other places where he could not only repair his ships, but also build new ones. Although this was happening many times slower than before. The Imperial Ruling Council managed the daily life of these territories, in general, with a sigh of relief when Thrawn decided to lead their armed forces. Unfortunately (or not?) not all combat-ready ships are in the power of the Grand Admiral and sent to the front line - the Imperial Ruling Council also takes care of protecting their territories. But they are much more interested in internal squabbles between each other in an attempt to grab as much power as possible. And therefore, one should not expect much help from them - after all, the advisers themselves will need it. Simply put, I have at my disposal now everything that is "free", combat-ready and able to leave the Imperial Space without losing the defense capability of the territories. Well, and in order to have the opportunity for an armed response to other members of the Ruling Council. One should be more careful with them - for the failure, they will tear me apart like a rag doll, and for the victory - one of them will surely try to get me into their "clique" in order to usurp power over the Imperial Space. A double-edged sword...
The Imperial Space also has the Ubiqtorate at its disposal - the brain center and leadership of the Imperial Intelligence, whose base is located on the planet Tangren. These guys are very good at doing evil to the enemies of the Empire. Espionage, sabotage, coup d'état - all these activities, as well as many others, are in their arsenal of "good deeds". The resource is very valuable - and I plan to use them in the near future. Fortunately, they are loyal to the Imperial Space and will carry out the orders I give them unquestioningly.
The next largest and first in combat capability Remnant is the Pentastar Alignment, which is currently ruled by Grand Moff Ardus Kaine. The Commonwealth provides some funding for Thrawn's campaign. And even then, these funds came to the Grand Admiral's disposal at one time, last year. Yes, the amount is significant, and Thrawn was not distinguished by extravagance. But one must understand that this money, like any other, tends to run out. Ardus Kaine is an excellent manager, which can be seen from his organizational abilities: he has a Super Star Destroyer of the Executor-class called the Reaper under his command - in a fully manned and combat-ready condition. At the moment, no other Remnant of the Empire can boast of such wealth. But the New Republic can. The Lusankya is somewhere there, waiting for its hour...
Of course, Kaine will not give this excellent ship to anyone's disposal - because it is a symbol of power, success, and also a guaranteed annihilation of any enemy who tries to encroach on the territory of the Pentastar Alignment.
Kaine is ready to provide shipyards on the planet Yaga Minor for Thrawn's use on a non-free basis. These are well-equipped slipways and docks, equipped with the latest technology. However, in order to use the shipyards, it was necessary to pay a pretty penny. Not the most economically viable option. It is much easier to use any shipyards of the Imperial Space.
The Ciutric Hegemony. A sector with its capital on the planet Ciutric IV. This association is headed by the Imperial military leader Prince-Admiral of almost any type of starships, but they do not have the production capacity to build anything. But Krennel has money. And a lot of money. He is one of the main sponsors of Thrawn's campaign. A dangerous opponent. Especially if you consider what implicit forces are behind him. But for now, he is an ally - and a very valuable one.
The Antemeridian Sector under the control of Moff Getelles was a supporter of Thrawn. Honestly, I've gone through all the archive data to understand why the Imperial Space is still trying to hold this area of space. There were no mineral extraction plants, no military production, and no agricultural worlds here. The planets of the sector barely survived on their own and did not depend on the surrounding ones, which quite well characterized Moff Getelles. However... There is nothing to hold on to here. That is, in my understanding, the Imperial Space should fight for the subjugation and control of strategically important worlds, systems, and sectors - for what can give at least some advantage in the war with the New Republic and unreliable neighbors. There is none of this in the Antemeridian. Except perhaps...
Noticing a link to the presence of military contracts, I opened the corresponding file, skimming it diagonally.
Ah, that's the point! Well, now everything has fallen into place.
In this galaxy, there are many private companies that produce not only civilian, but also military property. The Loronar Corporation was one of them. The Galactic Empire made them a military contractor, supplying the Imperial fleet with Strike-class medium cruisers.
Strike-class medium cruiser.
The ship had a modular design, very modern and powerful weapons, a modular design of the interiors, it was relatively cheap to build, and therefore it was massively purchased by the Imperial fleet for various purposes. In Thrawn's fleet (yes, it's time to get used to calling it mine!), there were several such ships - precisely thanks to the support of Moff Getelles. Despite their nondescript appearance, these two ships were considered equal in strength to a Victory-class Star Destroyer, and the latter was one of the well-proven ships. The sector built Strike cruisers in small batches - as far as the capacities of their shipyards allowed, and supplied them to various Imperial Remnants.
But the icing on the cake was the fact that the Loronar Corporation was also a supplier of Torpedo Spheres. In the New Republic, this type of combat station is called "miniature Death Stars", and quite deservedly so.
Torpedo Sphere.
Armed with five hundred launchers for launching proton torpedoes (not counting turbolasers and other weapons), the torpedo sphere was designed for mass bombardment of planetary shields. Energy shields capable of protecting an entire planet from orbital bombardment are a problem. Because it can take a very long time to break them down before it becomes possible to destroy the defense. And I must say that this kind of siege is not uncommon. But to assemble an armada to remove the planetary shield is a thankless task. That's why torpedo spheres were developed. They do torpedo sphere just predetermines the fact that, in the cramped conditions of the crisis, no Imperial Remnant decides to order such installations, which, due to their design features, are not very suitable for counteracting the enemy fleet. That's why there are no more of them in any of the Remnants loyal to Thrawn. Officially - no. In fact, however... anything can happen. And most likely, someone somewhere has hidden several pieces - for emergencies.
However, there is a certain snag. According to reports from Ubiqtorate agents, the Loronar Corporation, in addition to supplying military equipment to the Empire and the Remnants, was also seen selling weapons to the Rebel Alliance. And at the same time, it continues to function without any complaints. It looks like the Imperials are ready to turn a blind eye to such double-dealing, just to have a reliable supplier of quality equipment themselves. Curious...
In addition view of the great distance between the Remnants of the Empire and the pro-imperial planets, few Remnants try to take control over them - no one wants to send part of their fleet into the unknown, which can be destroyed at any moment by the New Republic, if it suddenly takes it into its head.
But the list of these planets is impressive.
The Imperial Academy is located on Carida. And this planet, possessing a powerful planetary defense system, is not only a testing ground for the latest military equipment, but also a place for training glorious guys in well-known snow-white armor - stormtroopers. They are trained excellently, in a short time - in just six months, yesterday's farmer from Tatooine can be turned into an uncompromising weapon of the regime. And all this without any brain operations or Sith magic. Drill, ideological brainwashing, and the good old speeches about the fact that the Motherland is in danger. The Imperial Remnants value and support Carida, and in the event of an attack, they are ready to allocate forces to protect it and repel attacks. The New Republic, according to Imperial intelligence, is drooling, looking in the direction of this planet. But they understand that they do not have enough forces to quickly take the world under their control. As they do not have enough for a blockade. The only way they imagine is either not to touch the planet, or to negotiate. So far, they are adhering to the first option. But as soon as the borders of the Imperial Space move further away from Carida, and timely assistance to a hypothetically besieged world will not be able to arrive in time - the Republicans will definitely try to lure the planet.
Rendili. And this is interesting. Because this world is located in the region of the Core Worlds, and therefore - surrounded by territories loyal or inclined to join the New Republic. Rendili is a strategically important star system, as it is home to the headquarters and significant production facilities of the Rendili StarDrive Corporation, known for having been a reliable supplier of starships to the Galactic Republic for thousands of years. But during the Clone Wars, things did not work out for the corporation, since Palpatine, who then ruled the Republic, favored specialists from the Kuat sector shipyards. One way or another, Rendili StarDrive has produced many excellent starships in its history, such as the Dreadnought-class heavy cruiser, which, despite its venerable age, has proven itself well.
Dreadnought-class heavy cruiser.
Another achievement of the Rendilians was the creation of the Victory-class Star Destroyer at the end of the Clone Wars, which are still found in relatively large quantities throughout the galaxy. Despite the appearance of the Imperials, Victories can still be found in many fleets of the galaxy. In mine, for example, there are several of them. And the pro-imperial government of the Corporate Sector, for example, owns almost a thousand such starships.
Victory I-class Star Destroyer.
At the moment, the Rendilians exist due to imperial orders for starship repairs, which they do not really like: there are not so many Victories at the disposal of the Imperial Remnants, they, like other remnants of luxury, are cherished and not thrown onto the front lines in vain. This is detrimental to the economy of Rendili. And the locals are already on the verge - the very case when loyalty, not supported financially, can deprive the Imperial Space of another valuable ally. And I would very much not want this, because, if everything works out well, then I will have work for the Rendilians. Lots of work...
For which there is currently no large amount of money.
The planet Kelada in the Duluur sector was a valuable ally. It was here that the production of speeders was located, which were used in the imperial army so ubiquitously that they had already become an integral part of the image of imperial stormtroopers-scouts. Speeders and gravcycles are always needed, and therefore the Imperial Remnants do not spare money for purchases. And therefore Kelada is with us.
Bestine IV is a world, practically a fortress. The oceanic shipyards known as Jaggerrhead are located here. Here, under the guise of assembling Acclamator-class assault cruisers - veterans of the Clone Wars, and now acting as auxiliary ships of the Imperial fleet - secret engineering developments were carried out. What exactly - is not particularly important. The main thing is that most of the population of this world was resettled by the Imperials on other planets in order to maintain the secrecy of production. And now the shipyards are in an almost mothballed state - few people want to build anything on a planet surrounded by the enemy. So, the rulers of this world are simply going with the flow, waiting either for manna from heaven to fall on their heads in the form of large contracts, or they simply will not be able to switch to the side of the New Republic. It is worth thinking about this. To lose such an important strategic world because they simply have nothing to pay for orders is a stupid, but harsh truth. And another headache.
In the Doldur sector of the Mid Rim, there was the planet Lainuri. A beautiful world with a diverse ecosystem. They say "earth-type" about such, but the problem is that there is no planet called Earth in this galaxy. But that doesn't change the very essence. Successfully located near the southern part of the Corellian Way, this planet, like a dagger, was located in the very heart of the territories already part of the New Republic, or sympathetic to it. Despite the lack of large planetary defense means, it was here that the real Thrawn placed his operational base. In the enemy's rear... And again - impudence on the verge of a brilliant tactical decision. A little-known planet, remote from the main hyperspace routes, does not attract much attention from the enemy. But from here it is very easy to strike at the territory of the enemy. Having bases on the surface, as well as a fleet of Star Destroyers and ships of a lower class, there is every chance not just to fight back against any attack, but also to evacuate if it becomes completely "hot". Not to mention the fact that in the nearby nebula, gases useful for such a small fleet are mined at an old station.
However, while I have not mastered at least part of the imperial military program in order to at least partially correspond to the image of Thrawn, my lot is raiding operations. Which, in fact, is what the ships of my fleet are currently engaged in. It is still far to full-scale invasions and the capture of territories. Patience is a virtue. First, it is necessary to properly tighten the rear, and take from under the nose of the New Republic what lies badly. And for this, first of all, it is worth subduing Palpatine's treasury. The Imperials are, of course, allies, but even when I get new ships – and I will get them, for sure - few will want to give me at least some trained officers, gunners, pilots, and deck crews. For this, there is Mount Tantiss.
But, let's continue to see what else is in the bins.
What did I say about "torpedo spheres"? Here's a simple example. One such protects the planet Chasin in the Core Worlds. Only one siege station, but the New Republic bypasses not that planet, the entire star system, by the side. A couple of light patrol ships guarding the borders of the territory loyal to the Empire don't count.
Planets Trogan and Columex. Located in the Outer Rim, they did not have any special military significance. Trogan is a backwater planet with a small imperial garrison. Columex is generally managed by private individuals. But the point is that there is a good gaming industry here, which appeared with the filing of the Empire. And for general patronage, as well as non-interference, Columex supplies the Imperial Space with credits. That is, the money goes into the pockets of the Imperial Ruling Council, and not mine. There is no limit to disappointment. After all, as you know, income from vice is one of the most abundant.
The Pakuuni star system is no more than an outpost with a small Imperial space station. It was built three years after the Battle of Yavin, by the way, by order of Thrawn himself, when he was still a vice-admiral, restoring order in this part of the galaxy, hunting pirates. Nothing particularly outstanding. Just a point of interest for showing the flag.
The planet Makem Te in the Nilgaard system of the Outer Rim is another loyal supporter of the Imperial Space. A fortress world, absolutely loyal to the Imperials and fueling them with money. But this is now, after Thrawn returned the planet in a short, but ruthless battle several months ago. Last year, a warlord named Zsinj, a very odious and unloved figure by the Imperials, but a very interesting and capable businessman, was in charge here. But things did not work out very well for him in military affairs - he lasted about four years after the Battle of Yavin, controlling a huge territory and annoying literally everyone - both the Republicans and the Imperials. The most disappointing fact is that "thanks to" Zsinj, two Executor-class Super Star Destroyers were lost...
All this is sad.
Especially the fact that the Corellian sector is listed among the allies of the Imperial Remnant. The very one that is the birthplace of such New Republic heroes as Han Solo, Wedge Antilles, and... Okay, those two are enough to turn the world into an eyesore.
The Corellians were among the first to declare their separation from the Empire after the Battle of Yavin. The Imperial fleet forces stationed here seemed to be ready to even capture Coruscant, but it all came down to an internecine war between two major military leaders, the death of most of the fleets of both, the flight of the few survivors, and the appearance of a dictatorship in the sector. Which, declares that it is loyal to the Empire, however, it does not show any movement in this regard. Despite the fact that one of the most authoritative shipbuilding companies in the galaxy is located on Corellia: the Corellian Engineering Corporation. Building strong and reliable starships is a habit for them. Actually, they do build. For themselves.
These are allies like the gopher from the good old movie "DMB": "Do you see the gopher? - No. - And I don't either. But it is there." What to expect from such allies is not clear. It's easier to go around them.
That's it, ladies and gentlemen. These are all the allies... It seems like there are quite a few, even the territory, if you look at the map, is significant. But it must be understood that there are much fewer inhabited planets in the part of the galaxy controlled by the Imperials than in similar areas somewhere in the Core Worlds, Colonies, or the Mid Rim. And the Empire is not gaining allies. On the contrary - territories are only being lost.
Here is one of the latest examples - the Oplovis sector.
Until recently, it could boast a well-equipped rear base of the fleet, which, like the entire territory of the sector, was under the command of Admiral Gaen Drommel five years ago. The admiral was a protégé of the late Grand Moff Tarkin, so it is not surprising that Drommel had not only an excellent area of responsibility with a developed industry. Thus, one of the seven star systems that were part of the sector had a shipbuilding plant. What was noteworthy about it was that defectors from the Rebel Alliance worked at this enterprise. And the latter were very annoyed by the fact that shipbuilders from the shipyards of the planet Sluis Van were working for the Empire.
But what aroused my real interest in this sector the most was that Tarkin's protégé had at his disposal a perfectly trained combat unit consisting of three Star Destroyers... and an Executor-class Super Star Destroyer named the Guardian. It would seem that everything is fine, but...
There is always a "but." Five years ago, in the battle in the Tantive system, Gaen Drommel, together with his entire fleet, fought against the Rebel Alliance fleet. And lost. Two of his three Star Destroyers were lost in battle, the third was captured by the enemy. The fate of the Guardian is unenviable. It is considered destroyed or lost. Immediately after that, a number of planets in the sector came under the control of the New Republic, including the fortress planet Ketaris. Only a couple of systems loyal to the Imperial Space remained from the former sector, but they did not have any special strategic value.
Stop.
Stop.
Stop.
Super Star Destroyer "Guardian". Something very familiar. Very, very familiar. And for some reason connected with the New Republic. Why is that? Is my memory failing? After all, the rebels did not have the "Guardian", but the "Lusankya". Or...
No, wait a minute...
I remember that the New Republic had a "Lusankya" for sure by the time of the war with the Yuuzhan Vong. The ship fought and performed well. But it died. Then why does it seem to me that one of the "Executors" served in the state that was formed after that war? No, not like that. The Lusankya died - it was rammed by a huge Yuuzhan Vong world-ship. And it was in the midst of the war. But, if my memory serves me right, then one "Executor" took part in the battle for Mon Calamari - and this is already the end of the war with the Vong. Is that right? Or am I confusing something?! Maybe it was the "Reaper"?
No, definitely not the "Reaper". Ardus Kaine will die during the campaign of the resurrected Emperor, and his flagship will go to Gilad Pellaeon, who by that time will lead the remnants of the imperial territories. The Reaper will fight against the Lusankya and die in one of the senseless and merciless campaigns.
So that's not it.
Think, think, think...
Okay. If it doesn't work to remember right away, let's try the method of elimination.
What one can respect the Empire for, even after Palpatine's death and during the period of devastation, is that the data is still being updated in the archives. With the same pedantry and meticulousness.
Touching the receiver on my computer with the code cylinder, I got into the Ubiqtorate database. These guys do not really like to share information, but only if it does not concern the higher ranks of the Empire. I just happen to be one of them.
Let's see what we have here. Aha. "Executor-class Super Star Destroyer". Well, let's reveal the holy of holies - how many of them were built in total.
Executor-class Super Star Destroyer.
Blah-blah-blah, the project was prepared by Lyra Blissex, no, Wessex, because she was already married. Oh, never mind! The list! I need a list!
So, number one... and it's not an "Executor". What?!
The order for the head ships of the Executor series was simultaneously received by two major shipbuilding giants - the planets Fondor and Kuat. There was a certain squabble between them... well, that's not interesting. Here's what's interesting.
A prototype of the "Executor" was laid down at the Fondor shipyards. A mock-up ship on which "childhood" diseases were worked out. The Rebel Alliance attacked the shipyards and destroyed it. And this gave them some hope, I suppose.
One way or another, this vessel is definitely destroyed. Cross it out.
Next. The "Executor" and the "Lusankya". The first serial ones. One was built on Kuat, the other on Fondor. At the time of construction, both were called "Executors," so that no one would guess, I suppose. The fate of the Executor is known - five and a half years ago, it went into a steep dive and rammed the Death Star II. The Lusankya was buried on Coruscant (I already remember this, there is nothing like that in the Ubiqtorate files), it fought, fought. Aha. Status: "Captured by the rebels. Location - unknown."
Let's go further down the list.
"Terror". Destroyed three years after the Battle of Yavin. Diversion by the rebels. And the ship is good - it is written that it was equipped with a camouflage device.
"Vengeance" - destroyed in the battle at Nokto three and a half years after the Battle of Yavin.
"Annihilator". Destroyed during the battle on Kuat between the Imperials, rebels, and pirates from the Zann Consortium. We remember this. Curious... But there is nothing in the files about the Eclipse. Okay, let's check. Nothing at all?! How interesting. And "Sovereign"? And again, it's empty. It seems that someone didn't really want information about these types of Super Star Destroyers with an axial turbolaser to become known. But they are good... But all of them are now in the Deep Core with the Resurrected Emperor Palpatine. And I have no desire to communicate with him.
What else do we have with "Executors".
That very "Guardian" is considered destroyed in the battle at Tantive V five years after Luke Skywalker destroyed the Death Star. However, what is curious - there is no confirmation of the starship's death. Let's remember that.
"Iron Fist", the flagship of the warlord Zsinj. Destroyed during the battle for the planet Dathomir last year. Like the "Razor Kiss", which he wanted to steal from the Kuat shipyards.
"Reaper". Status: active. It belongs to Grand Moff Ardus Kaine.
"Intimidator". So-so-so... and here is the second candidate for resurrection from oblivion. The ship is considered destroyed after the retreat of Imperial forces from... the Kurnacht Cluster. And the name of this place would not have meant anything to me if it weren't for one "but." "Intimidator" led an operational unit known as the "Black Fleet." And here, analogies have already worked. Black fleet - the black fleet crisis. A very interesting moment in the universe. Because both the "Intimidator" and all of its flotilla - and this is no less than forty starships, and each of them is no less than a Star Destroyer. Not to mention the fact that there were more than one Super Star Destroyers in this unit. And all of them, together with the orbital shipyards, are considered lost. But not as combat losses. And here, it is rather not a desire and hope for the best, but a dry statement of fact. Nothing is known about the "Black Fleet", but only to those who compiled this list. But I know something else.
"Aggressor". Destroyed in the Corellian sector - rammed a torpedo sphere. Oh my god, what an idiot do you have to be to ram a sphere with a diameter of less than two kilometers on a nineteen-kilometer ship? Cross yourself and forget it.
"Enforcer". Destroyed by rebels during repairs.
Okay, is that all?
No, it can't be. After all, I remember that one of the military leaders in the Deep Core had his own "Executor" equipped with a camouflage system... But this will be much later than the present moment. In other words, the ship may not even be built yet, let alone put into service.
And they also destroyed such a ship at Mustafar, although its name is unknown. Or has it not been built yet?
Dry results.
Thirteen serial samples were built. A baker's dozen. Of these, there are only two that are guaranteed to be alive - and I know about them - the "Reaper" and the "Lusankya". But the "Reaper" is definitely not a long-liver, which means that it cannot be the ship that fought on Mon Calamari.
The ship, which has yet to be built in the Deep Core, will also be destroyed. So that's not it either.
It turns out that there are only two candidates: the "Guardian" and the "Intimidator". And again - the method of elimination.
The "Intimidator" is the flagship of the "Black Fleet". Together with its ships (including several Super Star Destroyers of an unknown class) and local shipyards, it was captured by the natives of the Kurnacht cluster. Then, the imperial crews fought back the ships - more precisely, they still have to do it in this reaction, but that's not the point. The "Black Fleet" and its ships - left, fled, and their fate is shrouded in darkness, at least for me.
Therefore, only the "Guardian" remains.
Yes, the theory may be far-fetched, but it will work as a working one.
Okay, now about something else. The "Guardian" disappeared several years ago. Why hasn't it appeared yet if it's intact? It didn't even get in touch. Seriously damaged?
Most likely. And if so, then its commander is not taking the risk of getting in touch, perfectly understanding that any imperial military leader will rush to him "to visit" and salute him with turbolasers, suppressing the resistance of the battered ship. And will certainly capture it. No. If I were in the place of its commander, I would try to secretly purchase spare parts for the ship from everyone in order to restore it in the place where the ship is located.
Well... It only needs to be found and brought under control. It sounds simple enough, but no. It may take months, or perhaps years, before you can at least roughly track down the "Guardian". But the game is worth the candle - the appearance in my hands of such a trump card as the Executor-class Super Star Destroyer will greatly change the balance of power - both in the Imperial Space and in the war against the New Republic.
However, first it still needs to be found in the vastness of the galaxy.
Oh, happiness was so close...
However, there is a much easier way to get an "Executor". Even two. But in one case - a large fleet will be required, and in the second - scouts who will be able to find the place where the New Republic is hiding the "Lusankya" right now.
Otherwise, I'll have to get a fleet and go to take the "Black Fleet" from the natives of the Koornacht cluster. However, I very much doubt that they will give me the "Intimidator" and the rest of the starships without a big fight.
Yeah...
How much interesting stuff was left in the vastness of a galaxy far, far away after the collapse of the Galactic Empire. It only remains to figure out how to take all this, and much more. Where by cunning, and where by brute force.
— Grand Admiral, sir, — Captain Pellaeon's voice sounded, appearing in the doorway of my cabin. — We are arriving in the Wayland system.
— Excellent, Captain, — I got up from behind my desk, blocking access to it. — Let's go to the hangar. Order a ship to be prepared for us - it's time to greet the locals and the Guardian of Mount Tantiss.