it always struck me as odd when leia was looking at vader, in the carbonite scene. like she was…almost surprised that this was happening. like…she expected something else.
What Could Have (Been Your Memories)
he promised not to hurt her friends. or anyone, for that matter. but she wasn't surprised when he did. after all, they're not allies anymore.
Leia hardly flinches. "Darth Vader. Only you would be so bold." Did he remember, three years ago, when she spoke those words? Back on the Tantive IV? She hardly thinks so—they were only words, after all. And she knows he doesn't care about them, anymore. Probably never did.
"Princess."
Hot, bubbling anger. "Don't call me that! I'm not much of a princess since that Death Star of yours blew my planet up, now, am I?"
But she doesn't mean that—not fully. It's an old anger that's long been discarded. Tarkin was the one who ordered the destruction. Vader had only sat back and watched, holding her shoulder.
(but that's the problem. what happened to the man who wouldn't stand for that thing? she knew that he hated that thing. just knew.)
Vader barely cowers. "Organa, then."
Leia is taken aback, though she doesn't show it. Vader, agreeing with her? When the hell did that start happening? Or, rather, When was the last time that happened? A long time ago. When everything was normal, she guesses. Well. If normal is considered discussing with the Emperors' right-hand-man. About politics, history, flying, everything…
Changing wherever her thoughts are going, she blinks and asks "what are you doing here?"
For a long moment, he doesn't answer. "I won't hurt your friends, Organa."
She looks out the window behind him. Bespin oddly reminds her of a little Coruscant. "Keep saying that: someday, I'll believe you, Vader."
He makes a gesture with his hand, and Leia doesn't have to look to know what he's doing. There's a swish and two pairs of boots. Stormtroopers grab her arms; lead her out the door. She won't look back.
(i thought you already did.)