Jaenera Targaryen
Well-known member
Tarkin and Vader respected each other. Tarkin had precedent since the Emperor had appointed him commander of the Death Star, but there was no resentment there. If anything, they seemed to have an almost friendly banter between them, as showed by Vader practically going 'I told you so' about Leia never ever willingly talking about the rebels, not to mention Tarkin practically signing off on Vader deciding to deal with Obi-Wan personally. That, and the gamble to locate the Yavin 4 base. Yes, I know Tarkin wasn't happy about that gamble, but the simple fact he not only considered it but actually agreed to it shows how far he was willing to go with Vader.
The Stormtrooper Corps was also loyal to Vader, whether the rank and file or the officer corps. It was the regular officer corps which had a rocky relationship with Vader, but again, that wasn't universal. The Inquisitors and other Dark Side adepts would also default to Vader if he can counter Sidious' resurrection backups. Overthrowing and replacing one's master is the standard succession protocol for Darksiders, after all.
Personally, I think Vader could have formed a troika with Tarkin and either Thrawn or one of the other Grand Admirals. The Empire would still fracture, and I suspect the rebels would opportunistically proclaim a New Republic, but if said troika acts quickly enough and consolidates their position, they could cement control over the Core before turning on the warlords and the rebels alike.
The Stormtrooper Corps was also loyal to Vader, whether the rank and file or the officer corps. It was the regular officer corps which had a rocky relationship with Vader, but again, that wasn't universal. The Inquisitors and other Dark Side adepts would also default to Vader if he can counter Sidious' resurrection backups. Overthrowing and replacing one's master is the standard succession protocol for Darksiders, after all.
Personally, I think Vader could have formed a troika with Tarkin and either Thrawn or one of the other Grand Admirals. The Empire would still fracture, and I suspect the rebels would opportunistically proclaim a New Republic, but if said troika acts quickly enough and consolidates their position, they could cement control over the Core before turning on the warlords and the rebels alike.