By:  Michael P. Kube-McDowell Published by Bantam Books September 1996 As Leia must deal with a new threat to the fragile alliance that binds the New Republic, Lando becomes a prisoner aboard a runaway spacecraft of unknown origin.  Luke continues his quest to learn more about his mother among the Fallanassi, where his every belief about the use of the Force is about to be challenged.  And while Leia ponders a diplomatic solution to the aggression of the fierce Yevetha race, Han pilots a spy ship into the heart of Yevethan space and faces a vast fleet of warships under the command of a ruthless leader--a fleet more than a match for the New Republic's forces....

    "What I question is the Princess's claim that this is a matter of great urgency," said Senator Marook.  "Perhaps she can help me understand."
    "I'll do my best," Leia said, wary.
    "These recordings of the Koornacht Cluster--to the best of your knowledge, they were made days, even weeks ago, yes?"
    "That's true."
    "So what you've shown us is history.  None of these tragedies can be prevented, or even tempered."
    "No---"
    "Then how is this any different from the unavenged atrocities of the Imperial era?  Why are we not meeting to discuss how to invade the Core in search of the agents of Palpatine's rampages?  Isn't the real urgency here the waning of your political power, and your desperate need for a dramatic victory to restore your prestige?"