Crimson Empire II: Council of Blood #1 marked the debut issue in the Crimson Empire II: Council of Blood comic book saga, hitting shelves on November 11, 1998 under the Dark Horse Comics banner.
In the wake of Carnor Jax's demise as depicted in the initial Star Wars: Crimson Empire storyline, the Galactic Empire is abruptly left without a commanding figure. To govern the Empire's operations until a new emperor ascends, the Imperial Ruling Council is convened; however, an undercurrent of unease prevails. Council members are targeted in a series of deadly assassinations, sowing seeds of fear and distrust. Simultaneously, an uptick in attacks on previously secure Rebel Alliance supply lines generates apprehension within the New Republic. Furthermore, the whereabouts of Kir Kanos remain a mystery.