Star Wars Reveals Why Emperor Palpatine Was Essential for the Empire’s Survival

Marvel’s Star Wars comics have taken a prominent role in dissecting the disintegration of the Empire following the demise of Emperor Palpatine. Set against the backdrop of the aftermath of Return of the Jedi, these narratives reveal that Palpatine, infamously known for his cunning, did not establish a contingency plan for his empire’s survival in the event of his downfall.

In a striking development, Anoat Sector Governor Grand Moff Adelhard, driven by a desperate need to retain his influence, has formed a circle of alliances. However, he remains oblivious to the treachery that lies within these new connections.

Republic Under Siege #3 cover, featuring Leia and other characters superimposed on space

The division and chaos that ensue serve as a testament to Palpatine’s enduring influence, as he seemingly orchestrates events from beyond the grave to dismantle his own Empire and reforge it in his vision.

The Empire Was Not Designed to Survive Palpatine

Leia names Luke 'the Heart of the Republic'

As the prime antagonist in Marvel’s Battle of Jakku, Governor Adelhard believes that carving out an independent faction from the Empire is his path to power after Palpatine’s fall. He isolates his sector, assembling allies who, as it turns out, are not to be trusted. This delusion only leads to further conflict with Counselor Gallius Rax, the architect behind the Emperor’s Contingency, who sees Adelhard as a rival and activates a spy within the Anoat sector to undermine him.

The breakdown of communication propagated by Rax fosters an environment rife with suspicion and betrayal, undermining even the most formidable Imperial factions in this new era. Unfortunately, Rax himself is not an improvement over Adelhard, as both leaders seek power without a true guiding force like Palpatine.

Tenuous Grip on Power: The Empire Without Palpatine

Adelhard’s Failures Embolden Palpatine’s Agenda

Adelhard on Republic Under Siege #4 Cover

In Battle of Jakku #3, Adelhard’s control over his faction is precarious at best. Loyalty is in short supply with the Spice Runners of Kijimi, and the schemes of Counselor Rax and his Shadow Council loom ominously over him. Even Reyna Oskure, deeply entwined in a romantic relationship with Adelhard, contemplates treachery on behalf of the Acolytes of the Beyond. Though love temporarily stays her hand, the stability of their alliance is uncertain.

Adelhard has ambitions to delve into the dark side to counter the powers of Luke Skywalker, yet this may ultimately be insufficient. He must cultivate enough strength to ensure his own survival, as dependence on allies in the Empire’s fractured state is dangerous. History has shown that the Empire’s foundation is built on betrayal; thus, the only ally he can truly trust is himself. Without the Emperor’s command to unify them, Adelhard risks sharing Palpatine’s fate of downfall.

Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku – Republic Under Siege #3 is currently available from Marvel Comics.

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