The opening crawl for Star Wars: The High Republic has been revealed, and it certainly spells bad news for the Jedi Order and the Republic.

The crawl alludes to the mysterious new threat known as the Nihil, a group of space Vikings responsible for a major inciting incident that will be felt across all the various High Republic novels and comic books.

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The galaxy is at peace, ruled by the glorious REPUBLIC and protected by the noble and wise JEDI KNIGHTS.

As a symbol of all that is good, the Republic is about to launch STARLIGHT BEACON into the far reaches of the Outer Rim. This new space station will serve as a ray of hope for all to see.

But just as a magnificent renaissance spreads throughout the Republic, so does a frightening new adversary. Now the guardians of peace and justice must face a threat to themselves, the galaxy, and the Force itself...

The High Republic takes place 200 years before the Skywalker Saga, in the golden age of the Republic. Notably, this era will not tie into any planned films or television series, allowing the creators an opportunity to tell all-new adventures.

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Star Wars: The High Republic begins Jan. 5 with Star Wars: The High Republic -- Light of the Jedi, by Charles Soule.

Source: StarWars.com