The Dark Uprising
Chapter III: A fateful surprise

            The metallic floor clanked resonantly at my every step. Officers, Stormtroopers, all servants of the empire, they parted before me. To them, I was Lord Vader, the brutal murderer, and all-powerful overlord. The Emperor's right hand man. To many, it was a dream – a desire, perhaps, to serve the Emperor at the side of the throne. They all never knew, however, that the Emperor takes no favourites. All his right-hand menaces had fallen at his own hand. The shrivelled fig that was Palpatine had a fear. He feared death. I knew the one reason why I had survived his torture. My being in the light would bring his end.

            Anakin, be ready. Padme's sweet fulfilling voice numbed my mind. It was time.
            "My Lord, I have arrived."
            The Emperor turned to face me, his face etched in a hideous grin. "My faithful servant," he said. "You have served me well."
            I stared, puzzled at his peculiar behaviour. "I would be nothing without you, my Lord."
            "That is true, my sith apprentice." What was going on? The Emperor's actions were puzzling.

            Be mindful of your thoughts…
            Padme? Her sudden interruption cleared my mind, and I began to reach out for the tendrils of the force. With much effort, I gathered the scattered pieces into one great ray. Defences were raised around me, and with what remained of the midichlorians, sealed the room from the outside world. Now, no more royal guards would come to the Emperor's side. Indeed, it was time.

            The Emperor continued his deceitful ploys, trying hard at his game, the game that had led me to darkness. Yet, this time, he had apprehension about his greatness. This time, he would fall playing games with my mind.
            "Jedi Skywalker," The Emperor's voice sounded calm, even friendly! But inside, I knew with certainty that he was fearful. "Your actions puzzle me."
            So do you, my Lord. I rose from my knees, preparing my mind for battle.
            Ani, no! Padme's voice sounded in what seemed to be alarm. Ani, this is not the time. You are not ready!
            "Padme, if I don't get him now, I never will!" My brashness, as I would recall later, was something to regret. The Emperor stared, perplexed at my sudden outburst to what seemed to be an invisible friend.

            My lightsaber shone, ember coals of red light, as I readied myself to a fighting stance. The Emperor allowed his surprise to slip through his guise, but quickly regained his composure. "So, you have decided to go against me, against everything you hold dear…" The Emperor smiled, cunning written all over his face. "Well, then, I guess it is time for your birthday present…"
            He reached for the fiery tapestry I had never noticed, and pulled it back, grinning all the way. "Lord Vader," The mocking voice sounded. "I present to you, her royal highness…"
            "NO!" My shout echoed across the room. I collapsed onto the ground, my defences failing me. Tears welled up in my eyes as I saw with bitter agony, through chains and blood, Padme Amidala.

Author's Note: Shelter, thanks for the review. To all: I know this isn't the best chapter, but it was the best I could do.