A really interesting fanfic might involve Darth Vader as a Roman general. Picture him leading legions of stormtroopers in battles that are fought in Roman - style amphitheaters across different planets. His suit could be modified to have a more Roman - looking armor overlay, and his lightsaber could be a symbol of his high rank in this Roman - inspired Star Wars world.
First, do your research on both Star Wars and the Roman Empire. Know the key elements like the technology in Star Wars and the social structure of the Roman Empire. Then, start with a simple concept, such as a character from Star Wars being transported to the Roman Empire or vice versa. For example, Luke Skywalker could find himself in the middle of a Roman battle and use his Jedi skills to change the outcome.
Emperor Palpatine is crucial. He is the mastermind behind the Empire's rise. Darth Vader, his Sith apprentice, is also very important. He is a fearsome warrior. Grand Moff Tarkin is another significant character. He commands the Death Star.
The Star Wars Empire story mainly focuses on the rise and rule of the Galactic Empire. The Empire, led by Emperor Palpatine, seeks to control the galaxy through tyranny. Darth Vader is a key figure in the Empire, a Sith Lord who enforces the Emperor's will. The story involves battles between the Empire and the Rebel Alliance, who fight for freedom and democracy.
There could be a storyline where the Eternal Alliance has to face an unknown and extremely powerful enemy from the outer reaches of the galaxy. It would explore how they gather resources, form new strategies, and perhaps make some unlikely alliances in the process. This would test the strength and unity of the Alliance.
Koth Vortena is often quite popular. His complex personality and his role in the Alliance make him a character that many like to explore further in fanfiction. He has a strong will and his decisions often have a big impact on the Alliance.
Luke Skywalker is important. He's the hero on his journey to become a Jedi. Darth Vader is also crucial as the main villain. And Yoda, who trains Luke.
A great plot idea for a Star Wars Shadow of the Empire fanfic could be to expand on the relationship between Dash Rendar and Leia Organa. Maybe there are some untold adventures they had together that didn't make it into the official story. Another option is to explore the criminal underworld more deeply. Show how different gangs and syndicates operate during this time and how they are affected by the larger conflict between the Empire and the Rebellion. You could also create a story about a lost Jedi artifact that is discovered during the events of Shadow of the Empire and how different characters are drawn to it for different reasons, whether it's for power, knowledge, or to keep it out of the wrong hands.
One interesting fanfiction could be about the Empire's forces arriving on Earth during the 'Empire Strikes Back' era. Maybe they target a powerful nation's military bases, thinking they are Rebel outposts. The story could follow how Earth's military tries to fight back using their own technology against the Empire's advanced weaponry.