A/N: Thank you for the reviews and follows! I truly do appreciate them as it is difficult at times to pump out good content for you all to enjoy. With that being said, please enjoy this next chapter!
Accepting help for anything was not something that Vader was accustomed to. As he would always say, he was a gods damned Sith Lord, and not even Sith Lords would ask for help, much less from a Jedi. But that's what Vader had just done. He had accepted help from a Jedi, and it was one of the most maddening things that he had ever done. Landing on the speeder pad of his penthouse he got out feeling numb, defeated, but he had done what Padmé had asked. He had asked the Jedi for help. Now he just needed to bide time until they contacted him to come to Yavin Four, which might take a while since Qui-Gon fucking Jinn would have to convince the Council not to attack him the moment he landed He wasn't a fool, he knew that he couldn't take on that many Jedi by himself.
Walking up the steps, he thrust open the door. Vader sensed that Padmé was in their bedchambers, so he jogged up the stairs, wanting to tell her what had transpired. This was high treason beyond all reason, so she would e the on that he would need to talk to, no one else. After he reached the double doors, he opened them and found her lounging on the couch reading a book.
Padmé looked up at him and smiled. "Ani, you're home a bit later than I thought you'd be. How did the briefing at intelligence go?", she asked.
"It wasn't really much of a briefing", Vader said as he poured himself a stiff drink. "I was told that there was an informant that would disclose information about the Rebellion, but they only wanted to speak with me in person."
Padmé frowned. "That's not really your job, isn't it? Sounds a bit on the dangerous side. Did you go?"", she asked, with an expression that told Vader she already knew the answer.
"I did", he said after downing half the drink. Gods, he would need some courage to tell her what he had agreed to, even though it was what she had asked.
"So, how did it go?", she asked, obviously wanting him to elaborate.
"It wasn't an informant of sorts. It was Qui-Gon fucking Jinn", Vader replied.
Padmé's frown increased. "What the hell did he want to talk about, and did you kill him?", she asked.
"I didn't kill him", Vader said as he sipped his beverage and sat on the couch next to his wife. "He wants me to go to Yavin Four and convince the Jedi Council that they need to help me take down Sidious."
His wife perked up. "That sounds dangerous, but that's what we agreed to. You have to go by yourself?", she asked. "Isn't that going to be dangerous?"
"It will be", Vader agreed. "I'm not going to bullshit you Padmé, it's going to be one of the more foolish things that I've ever done. I don't care what assurances that Qui-Gon gave me, the Jedi view me as an enemy, they are going to be incensed when that damned Jedi Master tells them that I'll be coming. Not that I blame them, I did hunt them to near extinction, and continue to do so."
"What did Qui-Gon have to say about Obi-Wan trying to murder me?", Padmé asked.
"He called it like it was. An abomination. That his apprentice was in the wrong. He didn't seem bothered at all that I killed him, in fact, he seemed relieved that the fool didn't kill you. He also said that Sidious would be a great threat to our unborn children, which he doesn't know that we're expecting twins or a baby at all, but he's right", Vader said. "He asked me to trust him, and I nearly put a lightsaber through his heart, but that would be breaking my promise to you, so I agreed that I would trust him, but if it was a trap, he would be the first one to die."
Padmé mulled over in her head. "I think that I should go too", she said.
"What?", Vader asked incredulously. "There's not a chance in all the hells I'm going to risk you doing that, Padmé. I'd rather break my promise to you than put your life in jeopardy like that, our unborn twins in jeopardy like that."
She rolled her eyes. "Ani, think about it for a moment, if the Jedi sense that I'm carrying twins, they'll see that the threat to them by Sidious is real, and they'll have more of an inclination to come to your aide. That's my reason", she stated. "I will be fine; I just know it."
Vader huffed and poured himself another drink. "I suppose that's a good reason, but I still protest under duress. That's going to be very dangerous, but at least I can count on you being protected by me while we're there instead of leaving you here."
"Exactly", Padmé agreed. "So, when are we leaving?"
"I don't know. Quip-Gon will message me on me secured comms when he's ready for me. It could be soon, or it could be months, I just don't know", Vader replied. "Either way, I'll have to come up with a damned good reason to go to Yavin Four, or at least the region around it to avoid suspicion from Sidious."
Padmé nodded. "I suppose that there'll have to be some mission that you'll need to go on at the same time. I'll research some worlds that might need a temporary Imperial presence and we can go aboard your destroyer. Admiral Piett is a trustworthy man, I'm sure you can count on him", she said. "Maybe that would be for the best, the closer you bring him into the fold, the more you'll have the control of the military once Sidious is slain."
"That's a good fucking point, wife", Vader agreed. "I have the military's support, but I'll need them to be completely endeared to me when I announce that Sidious is dead. I'll even need Stormtroopers to help me secure the outside of the throne room so guards that are loyal to the Empire would be neutralized. I already have a good idea which ones I'll pick."
"Good", Padmé replied somberly. "Thank you for keeping your promise, Ani."
"I'll never break a promise to you, Padmé. Not now, not ever", Vader said with conviction.
"I know you won't, Ani. That's why I married you, I can trust you", Padmé replied.
Vader bent over to give his wife a quick kiss of thanks. Whatever would come, they would need to work together on this one, regardless of the outcome. It would be challenging, but there was nothing they couldn't accomplish without each with each other firmly committed to the same task. No one could stop them, no one would stop them.
"So, there's to be a gala at the Palace in a couple of days", Padmé said. "It would be wise if we attended, that way Sidious is fully aware of our commitment as a couple and to the Empire."
Vader ground and buried his face in one hand before taking another long pull from his bourbon. He despised galas; they were filled with nothing but self important people that would pretend they gave a damn about the Empire. He usually was able to avoid attending him, but now that they galaxy knew his face and their wedding had been public, his anonymity was no longer a factor in preventing him from attending the blasted things.
"Well, I suppose we'd better go", he grudgingly agreed.
"I'm glad you see it my way", Padmé said sweetly. "I'll just have to avoid alcohol and I'll be just fine."
"Well, you're committed to our children, so I imagine that won't be too difficult", Vader said.
"Very true", Padmé said with a smile. "Don't worry, Ani, it'll be an enjoyable experience for us both. We just need you to dress a little appropriately for the event, and that'll be easy now that we know that Dormé is excellent at choosing your attire."
Vader sighed and slapped his knee. "I suppose so", he agreed. "But nothing pompous, that's not who I am at all. Something simple that is equal to my standing as the Commander of all Imperial Forces."
"Of course", Padmé replied. "I know that's what you take pride in the most."
"Not the most, you and our unborn children come before the military", Vader replied. You always will."
Padmé smiled and melted to his side. The couple just stayed like that for a while, enjoying each other's company.
…
Galas on Coruscant were always a major affair. The press loved to stand aside the red carpet and capture holoimages and holorecordings of the various couples that would attend, singing their praise. The ones that went stag were also documented, with reporters commenting on their lack of ability to get a date. It was a pompous affair, one that Vader despised. But there wasn't any turning back now.
They landed their speeder at the front so a valet could park it and got out. Vader was dressed in a simple black tunic with his military insignia, a golden falcon on his left breast, and a medal of valor around his neck. He despised the award, but Padmé had convinced him that it would go well with his tunic and slacks.
He stepped out of the speeder and opened the door for Padmé, taking her hand as an escort. She wore a simple dress that looked elegant. It was a backless dress with strappy shoulders and a long slit on her right leg. There was some cleavage, but a tasteful amount. Her hair was piled high and she was adorned with the finest diamonds that money could buy. Her ruby red lipstick contrasted perfectly with her fair skin. She looked like a work of art, at least that's what Vader had said.
"Alright, let's get this over with", Vader said as he marched them down the red carpet. Hordes of reporters asked questions which he ignored while the holos were being taken of them. The Lord and Lady Vader were making a prestigious entrance to one of the most exclusive events that the galaxy had to offer.
Vader led Padmé up the steps and into the Palace where an orator announced their presence. "I present to you, Lord and Lady Vader", the orator said with an echoing voice. The dignitaries, senators, and high ranking military officials turned their attention and applauded, irking Vader anymore. His stoic face insured that no one would come up to him for small talk, but he might be a little too forward in thinking that.
"Here goes everything", Padmé said cheerfully.
"Agreed", Vader replied. The couple entered the horde of people and while most avoided the couple, some did approach them making Vader's skin crawl.
The first one was Senator Allure of all people. Vader considered him to be a pompous snake. His ability to coerce women into flings with his flabby self were irritating. The man just didn't know how to take a hint that he wasn't wanted. A beautiful woman stood beside him and with a little probing, it was confirmed that she was a prostitute, who was put off by the senator, but some women had to do things to make credits.
"Lord and Lady Vader, how good of you to join us. I must say that the both of you are a fabulous couple, although, I do appreciate your handling of Senator Clovis. That was some excellent work that the two of you provided the galaxy and I am certain that nobody misses him", he said.
Immediately alarm bells went off inside of Vader's head. This man knew more about Clovis than he was letting on and him bringing up Clovis was more of a relief than anything. The fucker knew more about what was going on with the situation than he was letting on, the piece of shit. Vader casually probed his mind and immediately confirmed his impression. He would need to deal with this obese monstrosity and soon.
"Clovis was a snake and all of those complicit in his distasteful acts will have the same fate as he did", Vader said with venom in his voice.
Allure's face slackened and turned to shock. Another guilty sign. Vader would certainly have more of an investigation performed on the man. He knew more about Clovis' activities; he was certain of it.
"Yes, that would be most excellent", Padmé replied icily, obviously picking up on Vader's thoughts through their bond.
"Well, of course", Allure said in a high pitched voice. "Any way, I just wanted to give my congratulations."
He then turned with his whore and left the couple, going to the far side of the room. Hopefully he would have a heart attack out of fear, but something told Vader that he wasn't that lucky.
"I'm going to follow up on him", Vader said to Padmé quietly.
"Please do", Padmé said. "I agree with your suspicions whole heartedly."
Good, at least she would be on his side if Allure met an unfortunate demise. Very good indeed.
Senator Falken was next. She was going stag on the date as she probably couldn't find a man that could stand her personality.
"Lord and Lady Vader, it is a surprise to see you here. I thought the two of you would lead more of a private life, but I suppose I was wrong", she said.
"My husband and I are doing our duty to the Empire", Padmé replied. "Duty to the Empire takes precedence over everything else, wouldn't you agree, Senator?"
Falken nearly balked at the comment, but quickly recovered. "Of course, Lady Vader. You're absolutely correct. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go find some strapping young man to dance with", she said.
"Oh, good luck to you", Padmé replied sardonically.
Vader chuckled as the Senator left. "You handled that well", he said.
"I was always badgered by that woman when I was a senator", Padmé said. "I won't be badgered any more, I'm going to be the one doing the badgering."
"I'm not opposed to that at all", Vader said with another chuckle. "Just try not to let it go to your head too much, there will be plenty of senators that you'll be able to contend with."
"I announce to you, Admiral Piett and Miss Dormé", the orator announced.
Both Vader and Padmé turned in shock to see the announced couple. "What in the shit?", Padmé whispered. "I had no idea about this, did you?"
Vader merely shook his head in shock. This certainly was a surprise. What in the fuck was Dormé doing with Piett? That seemed to be the most improbable match there was. They wondered over to the couple to get a little more information.
"Milord, Milady", Piett said with a nod as the couple approached.
"Admiral", Vader replied. "I didn't know that the two of you would be here, especially together. Care to shed some light on that?"
Dormé blushed. "Well, on our missions on your destroyer, the Admiral and I would have some discussions, nothing personal, but just professional. At your wedding, since I was the made of honor and he was your best friend, we sort of started talking more and we hit it off."
Padmé smiled genuinely. "I think that's a marvelous development, Dormé. You deserve a man of the Admiral's station and Admiral, you'll find that Dormé is a wonderful woman, so congratulations to you both", she said.
"Yes, congratulations" Vader mumbled, still shocked at the development. "Why don't the two of you ladies go chat a bit, while I talk to the Admiral", he suggested in a tone that led for no argument.
"Of course", Padmé replied as she took Dormé hand and led them off.
"Milord, I hope that you're not perturbed by the development", Piett said quickly.
"No, Piett, that's not what we're going to discuss. Come with me so we can be away from prying eyes", Vader said.
"Of course, Milord", Piett said.
The two went to one of the open Verandas to talk. It was likely one of the more secure locations. Once they arrived, Vader quickly scanned for bugs, but there weren't any. Good.
"Admiral, I wanted to talk to you about a few things and get your thoughts on them", Vader said.
"Of course, Milord", Piett said. "What would you like to discuss?"
"Mainly project Star Dust", Vader said quietly. "This isn't a test, but what are your true thoughts on the project?"
Piett frowned and Vader could tell he was nervous.
"There won't be any repercussions regardless of your opinion Piett", Vader assured him.
Piett nodded. "I think the project is an abomination, Milord", he said nervously. "I don't believe that the navy should wield such power, regardless of its strategic importance."
"You and I are of a like mind, Piett", Vader said. "I don't suppose you understand that the only way to stop this from occurring is a change of leadership in the Empire." There was no turning back now, he had to have Piett's thoughts on the murder of Sidious.
The Admiral nearly balked. "Milord, that's highly sensitive. I'm not sure what your plans are, but I suggest you tread lightly about them", he said.
"I need you, Firmus", Vader said with conviction. "I can't do this without the support from the military and you're a rising star. The soldiers and sailors under your command respect you, they'll follow you to hell and back if that's what needs to happen."
Piett swallowed. "I suppose you're right, Milord. It will be difficult to sway the other Admirals and Generals, but it is possible", he said. "I would recommend that we slowly recruit them, at least the ones that are on your side. I know that General Veers is highly loyal to you, so I would start with him first. This would ensure that you have ground support during whatever the hell it is you're planning, with respect of course."
"Respect is received", Vader said with a firm nod of his head. "We can discuss this more at a later opportunity, but there will be a large ask of you before anything happens in the near future. Will you agree to it without me divulging further information?"
"Of course, Milord. I swear that you have my support", Piett said quietly. "Whatever it is, just tell me when the time is right, and I'll be ready."
"Thank you, Firmus. Let's go find the women and enjoy this… party", Vader said with clear distaste in his voice.
"Agreed, Milord", Piett said begrudgingly.
The two Imperials wondered back into the main chamber and found Padmé and Dormé near one of the food tables. Padmé was munching on a snack to keep her sickness at bay, while Dormé was sipping some champagne.
"Ladies", Vader said. "I think it's time we mingle some more."
"Of course", Padmé replied as she set her finished snack down on the table for a waiter to retrieve.
"Admiral, why don't you go introduce me to some of your friends", Dormé suggested. "I'm sure they're lovely people."
Damn, Vader thought. She really is getting into the role of the high life. Good for her.
"That's an excellent idea, Dormé", Piett said as he offered Dormé his arm.
"Well, I suppose that leaves the two of us", Padmé said. "Come on, let's go mingle."
Vader took her arm and the couple waded into the see of people, looking for anyone to talk to give a good appearance. They spent the next half an hour shaking hands and generally being good sports about talking with people that they both loathed. It was certainly a stretch of their talents, but they were able to hit it off well enough.
"These gods damned six inch heels are killing me", Padmé whispered as they finished a conversation with a low ranking senator and his wife that were a bit too happy to speak with them. Damn these ingenious people.
"It'll be over soon enough, wife", Vader said.
The orchestra stopped playing their serenade and began playing a quick fox trot.
"Care for a dance?", Padmé asked.
Vader smirked. "I never should have told you I could dance, but let's go", he said.
The couple made it to the largely empty dance floor and took each other's hands and began dancing to the music. Vader's quick footwork was matched with Padmé's as they careened around the dance floor. Other couples stopped to watch the Lord and Lady Vader show off their immaculate footwork, dancing in ways that the rest of the room could only dream of.
It certainly did help that they were bound together by the bond they shared. Padmé was able to tell precisely where Vader would move and when he would twirl her, spinning her dress up glamorously. It was quite impressive, and Vader felt himself actually having fun with his bride, which was all that he cared about. Damn the people that were watching, he wanted to bond with his wife. And bond they did.
After several more complex maneuvers across the dance floor, the orchestra began playing the music faster signaling that the dance was close to an end. Padmé smirked as Vader twirled her back and forth in between movements across the floor, enjoying that her man was giving the crowd such a show, not that Vader could blame her. Only five months ago, she was seen as someone that was damaged and unworthy, but now she was being treated like royalty. This was a fantastic way for er to make a comeback into the world of politics.
When the music was about to stop, Vader pulled her to him and just when the music ceased, he gave his wife a sensual kiss that earned them a thunderous applause.
"Good show", Padmé whispered.
"Only for you", Vader replied.
The orchestra began playing a slow dance and Vader brought Padmé close to him, enjoying placing his hand on her supple hip while he held her other hand as they took their time moving across the dance floor. Other senators and dignitaries joined them.
"That surprised me that you were so willing to give such a good public show dancing like that", Padmé said.
"Like I said, it was only for you. Damn the people watching", Vader said with a chuckle. "But it was nice to practice the skill."
"Oh, I think you enjoyed the attention a little more than you're saying", Padmé said. "You're a gods damned Lord of the Sith, but you're also human and I believe that you are more of a show off than you like to believe."
"Maybe you're right about that, Angel. It's strange being considered to be a human rather than a monster, but I'll get used to it. I'm still a monster though", he defended.
"I know you are, darling. But you're my monster", Padmé replied. "Just don't be too monstrous around the children."
"Of course, not", Vader replied as he leaned down to give her a peck on the lips. "The children will only see the good side of me, of that I can assure you."
Padmé beamed him a smile and they continued to dance. They came near Piett and Dormé.
"Switch?", Vader suggested.
"Sounds like a good idea, Milord", Piett replied.
They twirled their dates to each other and Dormé shyly looked up at Vader. "I hope you're not upset that I'm seeing Admiral Piett", she said.
"No, I'm not upset, why would you believe that?", Vader asked.
"I don't know, because we're friends and I have, well, had certain feelings for you", she said.
Vader bent down to her closely to her ear. "You're still my friend, and that's all that counts. I'm not going to be angry with you for pursuing other men, as long as you and I share a bond as friends then that's all I care about", he whispered.
Dormé smiled as she bit her lip. "You'll always be my friend and I'm happy to have you as one", she replied. "I just wanted to make sure that you were alright."
"I am", Vader said firmly. "So have the two of you…"
Dormé blushed. "Not yet, Ani. But maybe we will soon enough", she said.
"You know, when the time comes right if things work out between the two of you, I'm going to miss you like hell. I've grown accustomed to you living with us", Vader said.
"I'm going to miss it too, you're a good host to have let me stay there for so long", she said.
"I'm not a good host, I'm a good friend", he corrected. "But seriously, you will be missed."
"By the both of you, or just you?", she asked.
"I know Padmé will miss you, but I was speaking about me", Vader replied.
That softened Dormé's face, and she gave him a wistful smile. "You know, in another life I think we would've made a good couple", she whispered.
"I think we would have as well", Vader said genuinely. "You'll always have a place in my heart as your friend though."
"You're going to make me cry, Ani", Dormé said with a chuckle.
"Don't do that, you'll ruin your makeup" Vader said.
She just smiled up at him.
"Switch?", Piett suggested.
"Agreed", Vader said. He gave Dormé a wink and a smile which she returned before he twirled her back to Piett.
Once he took hold of Padmé she cocked an eyebrow at him. "Did the two of you have a nice chat?", she asked.
"We did, wife", Vader said. "I told her that if things work out between her and the Admiral that I'd miss her company at our estate."
"That was sweet of you, Ani", Padmé replied. "I'll miss her terribly as well. We've been together for so long; it'll be like losing her permanently."
"I don't think that'll happen", Vader said. "I'm sure that the two of you will continue to have a great bond."
"I'm sure the two of you will as well", Padmé said softly. "Be honest, are you going to miss her?"
"Of course, I am", Vader replied. "I don't think I've ever had a real friend before, and she certainly is a real friend."
Padmé cocked her head at him. "In a different life, would the two of you been a couple?"
"She asked me the same thing", Vader responded. "I suppose we would've, but that's not the reality that we have. You're my reality and I'm perfectly happy we have it. No one else compares to you, nor will that ever change, Padmé."
"Good", Padmé said softly as she placed her hand on her husband's chest. Vader held her close and closed his eyes, letting the Force guide them across the floor, enjoying the closeness that he had with his wife. Nothing else could compare, nothing else would ever compare.
Once the couple finished their dance, Vader looked at her with a gleam in his eyes. "I think we've made a good enough impression, don't you?"
Padmé smirked. "I think we have. Why don't we move this back to our bedchambers and have a dance of our own?", she suggested.
"You've read my mind perfectly", Vader stated.
The walked arm in arm out of the Palace formal chambers and walked down the red carpet where the reporters had disappeared, satisfied with the results they obtained. Vader was relieved, if one more person took a holophoto of him he would likely fly into a blind rage and start slaughtering the vultures.
The valet brought their speeder up and Vader opened the door for his wife. She got in and he quickly rounded the speeder to get in himself, launching the two of them into the sky.
…
Padmé landed on the bed, nude and eager. Their regular love making had been interrupted by so many things so she was thrilled that they would have some time together to express their love to one another. Her husband crawled on top of her and began roughly kissing her, and she grew weak with desire.
His hands roamed her body, making her moan at the touches, his rough hands kneading her flesh taking his time to explore every inch of her. She was in pure bliss and excitement. Loving the attention, her hands moved up and down his body, making sure that her nails scratched him lightly to put him in an even more sensual mood.
"Ani, you don't know how much I've missed our daily lovemaking", she said as her voice trembled.
"I've missed it too", he growled.
"Then don't waste your time, take me, darling", she pleaded.
"As you wish", Vader mumbled as he positioned himself and thrusted into her.
Padmé let out a cry from the sudden penetration into her core and then whimpered at each and every thrust. Gods, this is what she had been craving, what she had been needing. She dug her fingernails into his back, leaving marks on him while he furiously took her in the most wonderful of ways.
Vader covered her lips with her own and her cries were muffled, but her desire only grew by the burning passion that his lips brought. It was like heaven and she didn't even know how to explain it.
She gasped as he roughly grabbed her breasts, gently working it with his hands. She was in need, desperate need and only he could give it to her. His rough strokes made her eyes roll back into her head.
Slap!
Padmé opened her eyes in surprise.
"Stay with me", he growled.
She nodded and looked into his eyes, making the experience even more intense as usual. There was something to be said about his dominating personality in bed, it was glorious. Simply glorious. There was roughness, gentleness, possessiveness, and pure passion. They were meant to be together; they were perfect for each other.
As his thrusts began to grow quicker, she arched her back and cried out. Making her knees quiver in excitement. She knew that she was getting close to her peak, no matter how hard she tried to fight it off. It was inevitable and she knew it, especially with his thrusts.
Vader was breathing heavily and that signaled to Padmé that he was nearing his own peak. His pubic bone was grinding against her most sensitive of areas, making her lust with passion that was unavoidable. This was it; this was the time where she would climax.
Her body began to spasm and she screamed out as she dug her nails into him harder as she clenched down on him and convulsed. His breathing begam raged and his thrusts more dominating. It wouldn't be long for him either.
Once he had his fill, he threw his own head back and shouted as he pulsed into her deeply, taking her for his own. No other feeling could compare to what Padmé was feeling, nothing else would ever come close. Her husband, her lover, her protector had just taken her for his own and she loved it. It was beyond pleasurable.
Vader gently collapsed on her, being mindful of the two precious lives that were growing inside of her. He rolled them to their side, and she whimpered into his mouth as he continued to give her fiery kisses, making her feel even more weak after such an amazing climax.
This was what they were meant for, this is what they both needed. Unbridled passion and love.
They stayed locked together for some time, eventually drifting to sleep.
…
Padmé opened her eyes and stretched like a big cat after a long nap. The sun shone through the window, casting its rays on the bed. She looked over at her husband to see his face buried in the pillow, still fast asleep. The sight made her smile, he really did need his sleep, and with twins on the way she figured that she might as well let him get some more rest in. They had nothing on their agenda for the day anyway, so there was no sense in waking him up.
Quietly easing off the bed, she grabbed her robe and slippers and sneaked out of the room, ready for a hot cup of caff although she was limited by how much of it she could drink a day due to her pregnancy. There were so many things that she couldn't do now, but she gladly accepted the trade off if that meant that she got to have her two precious little ones in her arms at the end of the pregnancy. Every time she thought about it, a grand smile broke out on her face as she would unconsciously rub her belly the way all expecting mothers did.
She padded into the kitchen and was surprised to see Dormé there, drinking caff and reading a book.
"Dormé, love. What are you doing here? I figured you would have been over at Firmus' residence", Padmé said.
Her friend looked up at her and shrugged. "He's a proper gentleman, he apparently doesn't believe in intimacy after only knowing a person a short amount of time", Dormé said. "I guess that's different than any other man that I've dated, and I've dated many, but if that's what makes him comfortable, I'll respect his wishes."
"That makes me feel like an absolute tart for fucking Ani atop the Senate roof once we reconciled and admitted we had feelings for one another", Padmé said with a giggle. "Hell, here I've been calling you a tart, and maybe you should've been calling me one ever since he and I got together.
That made Dormé laugh. "No, I don't think that makes you a tart, I think that means the two of you couldn't control your passion for one another. Besides, the two of you are married now and expecting two little bundles of joy, so it isn't like you're just friends with an extra something on the side", she pointed out.
"That's a good point", Padmé said as she poured herself a cup of caff and added a touch of cream and a pinch of sugar. "I never thought I'd find a man like Ani. Hell, you remember me, I used to be doom and gloom and full of melancholy that I would think that Rush Clovis was my only choice." The mere thought of the man made her want to gag.
"We'll, now you're not full of melancholy, Rush is dead, and you're married to the man of your dreams", Dormé said with a smile. "You've earned it, Padmé."
"Thank you, my friend", Padmé said as she sat at the counter opposite of Dormé.
"Well, do you know what the next big step is as Lady Vader or are you still learning the ropes?", Dormé asked.
That made Padmé's lip curl, but not for any reason that she could disclose to her friend. "I'm still learning the ropes. It's so much to take in that I feel I'll spend the entire damned pregnancy figuring out how to do the damned job. If only they had done the leg work of preparing a simple briefing on what my duties would be, that would've been preferrable to running from meeting to meeting like I was a gods damned shaak with its head cut off", Padmé said as she took a sip of her hot drink.
"I imagine so", Dormé said. "Any thoughts on what you'll do after the pregnancy? Will the Empire give you some form of maternity leave or something?"
"They gods damned better will give me maternity leave or I'll lose my fucking mind", Padmé said with a frown. "The audacity of making a woman leave her babies under the care of someone else when they're at their most vulnerable state makes me want to gag."
"Very true. I wasn't trying to get your heckles up though, I was merely wondering. I'm sure that they'll give you all the time you need once you have the twins", Dormé said confidently.
If only her friend knew of what had to happen before that took place. She wanted to tell her so desperately, but she couldn't place her in that kind of danger of knowing of such a serious topic. No one could know what Vader was up to, it could get people killed and that was the last thing that Padmé wanted. She wanted Sidious to die at her husband's hand, not any of her friends, especially her best friend.
"Well, I'll just handle it one day at a time", Padmé said sweetly before taking another sip of her caff. "What book are you reading? Another trashy novel of a Jedi and a woman falling in love in the midst of a war?"
"If you must know, I am. I don't know how many books there are in this gods forsaken series but it's caught me and rolled me in hook line and sinker. I'm surprised that any establishment that sells them hasn't been arrested for treason, but I suppose the Empire is too busy with the Rebellion to care about a few books being sold at stores here and there", Dormé replied.
"Oh, you're ever the hopeless romantic", Padmé said with a chuckle. "What am I ever going to do without you?"
"Firmus and I aren't a sure thing yet, Padmé", Dormé said as she put her book down. "Besides, knowing his chivalry, it would take some time before he and I moved in with one another, that's for certain. You still have me for the foreseeable future."
That made Padmé's eyes water. "I know, my friend. With everything changing and these gods damned pregnancy hormones, I'm just everywhere with my emotions right now", she said as she fanned her eyes and took deep breaths.
"Oh, there, there, Padmé", Dormé said as she walked around the counter to embrace her friend. "It's alright to be hormonal, you're carrying two wonderful little children inside of you. Soon you'll be marveling about he way they kick you and how they give you the strangest food cravings, but just take every moment as you can. Eventually, they'll be in your arms and you can spoil them rotten."
"Me? Spoil them rotten? Darling, with the man I married I doubt that'll happen. He'll probably have them levitating objects with their minds by the age of three", Padmé said with a chuckle. "Besides, Ani isn't the type that would spoil a child, he's more of the strict authoritarian parent."
"I can spoil my own damned children if I want to", Vader said walking into the kitchen still clad in his sleep pants and shirtless. He yawned and stretched. "My mother did her best to spoil me when I was a child, and considering how little we had, she did a good job. I just learned to do without when I was abducted by that madman, but then ever since I was reunited with her, she has since spoiled me again every time she gets her chance. Believe me, my children will be spoiled, to a certain extent at least."
A certain extent? Padmé wondered what the extent would be. Oh, no matter, they had plenty of time to figure that out. That's if Vader was able to kill Sidious and not end up burnt alive by the bastard's lightning for it. The mere thought of that idea made her want to vomit.
Vader placed a hand on her shoulder and pulled her close to his side, probably catching her errant thoughts. She loved it when he would wordlessly take actions like that, it made her feel safe, secure, and loved beyond all means.
After he let go of her he went to go pour himself his own cup of caff. "I can't believe I used to be able to go for days without a drop of this, but now in order to get started in the morning, I have to have at least two damned mugs of it", he growled.
"Oh, at least you're allowed to drink two mugs of it, I'm limited to one a day", Padmé replied. Seriously, she wasn't about to let him complain about needing to drink a couple of cups of caff a day while she had restrictions placed on her.
"Very true", Vader grumbled as he took his first sip. Seriously, the man could be a real grouch in the morning if he was able to get away with it.
"What are you going to do today, husband?", Padmé asked.
"Lightsaber training", he replied taking another sip. "Then followed on by some strenuous exercise. I must have lost ten percent body mass while we were on our honeymoon and need to get it back as quickly as I can."
"What's the rush?", Dormé asked.
Vader looked like he was about to say something but then caught himself. "I just don't like being less than my usual self", he replied. "It isn't like everyday will be an easy day, so I might as well take advantage of the easy ones while I can."
Padmé was about to make a remark on that when Threepio waddled into the room.
"Master Vader, I'm glad I found you. The Emperor has summoned your presence immediately", the droid said.
"Immediately?", Vader asked with a bit of dread in his voice.
"Yes, Master Vader, he was quite insistent about it", Threepio replied. "I've laid out your attire in your bed chambers so you can quickly get ready."
Padmé shot her husband a nervous look and he responded with a grimace.
"Alright, I'm go get dressed now", Vader said as he placed his mug on the counter.
Gods fucking dammit, couldn't they get just one good day off without that monster fucking it up for them? Shit, she was about to lose her mind if that madman decided today would be a good day to torture her husband. She would scream like a wild rancor if he came home horribly burnt for some simple transgression, he made that insulted Sidious' very being. The leather faced asshole had nothing better to do than to torture his apprentice and it made her infuriated beyond belief. Shit, she wanted to smash something, better yet, smash everything.
After a few minutes, Vader came trotting back down the stairs dressed in his macabre attire. "I'll be back as quick as I can", he said to Padmé before he gave her a quick kiss. Everything will be fine."
"I hope so, Ani", Padmé said with tears in her eyes.
"It will be", Vader reassured her as he turned to leave.
Once Padmé heard the double doors shut, she threw her mug into the sink as hard as she could, jolting both Dormé and Threepio.
"Oh my! I'll clean it up, Mistress Padmé", Threepio said as he hurried over to the kitchen sink.
"Padmé, what's wrong?", Dormé asked as she went to her friend's side.
"Nothings wrong, except there's a possibility my husband will be tortured for some moronic reason because his master is a fucking psychopath", Padmé said as she wrung her hands in anxiety. "If he comes home burned alive, I'll go insane."
"Padmé, we can't go there just yet, love. We have to stay as calm as we can, if something terrible happens, then we'll push the panic button, but not quite, alright, love?", Dormé asked. "Seriously, I'm sure that Palpatine has some agenda that he wants to share with Vader, nothing more."
"I hope you're right, Dormé, because I'm sick and tired of that old fool dictating what we can and cannot do as couple given that Ani is his damned apprentice. Like he had any choice in the matter, he was a fucking nine year old boy when he was abducted. That's nothing that a little boy should have to endure, and now here he is in his mid twenties and he's still ruthlessly being tortured for no damned good reason", Padmé said as she rubbed her eyes.
After a few moments of silence, Padmé let out a long sigh. "Maybe I am jumping to conclusions. Maybe it is best if I just try and maintain my cool", Padmé said.
"There's the spirit, love. Why don't we go get you to sit down and I'll bring you a mug of herb tea to relax with, it'll help sooth your nerves", Dormé suggested.
"Yes, please, Dormé. Thank you, I'm sure that'll help", Padmé said as she briefly looked down at the floor embarrassed by her outburst.
…
Vader had an uneasy feeling as he stalked down the corridor to his master's chambers. What in the hell was so important that he be commanded to see his master on such short notice? There weren't any missions in the mix, at least none that he could think of it was like Sidious was insistent on seeing him for no damned good reason, unless the worst was about to happen. In that case, it would hurt like hell and through Padmé into a tailspin, which was the last thing that she needed while she was in this state.
Carefully guarding his thoughts, he pushed the doors open and took long steps to his master's throne, bowing to one knee and looking down in servitude. "What is thy bidding, my master?"
"Rise, Lord Vader", Sidious commanded.
Vader rose but kept his eyes angled down, lest he piss Sidious off for showing an improper amount of respect.
"There have been whispers that a Jedi Master was here on Coruscant within the last two weeks", Sidious said. "Whispers that I don't believe that you and I can dare to ignore."
"How would that be possible, master?", Vader asked, feigning a dumbfounded tone.
"It doesn't matter how it's possible, you fool! It happened!", Sidious raged. "You dare question me after all the generosity I've shown you since your engagement? I could have killed you for lying to me about being in love with the whore you wed, but no, I paid for the fucking wedding, just to have you unveil your face to the galaxy. My one weapon of terror humanized himself where he should have left people still cowering in fear!"
"People still cower in fear, master", Vader said in a tone that suggested nothing else. I'm still the second most deadly person in the galaxy save for you, and I intend to keep it that way." He wasn't about to be fucked around by Sidious because a Jedi Master was able to make it to Coruscant. Fuck, Kenobi was able to make it here at least twice with zero outbursts such as this, but no, when a Jedi Master made an appearance, he had to lose his gods damned mind.
"I'll believe it when I see it, apprentice", Sidious hissed. "You are to find out who this Jedi Master was and what his intentions were here, immediately."
How in the fuck was he supposed to do that? "Master, if I don't have some information that you're not telling me, there's no way for me to figure out when or why the Jedi Master was here. That's an improbable task that you're sending me on, one that our intelligence specialists are more apt to be able to figure out."
"Then use your intelligence assets to figure out why, I don't care, I just want answers. I know that the Jedi intend to attack us, but I just don't know when. The more time that you and I have to defend ourselves against them is to figure out how to stop them", Sidious said. "And stop them we shall, Lord Vader. Or your life and that of your wife's are both forfeit."
This insulant bastard just threatened his wife! Vader felt like snatching his lightsabers from his belt and using them to carve Sidious into piece after piece until he was nothing but a headless and limbless torso. The thought of that made it very pleasurable, but soon enough, if all went to plan, he would be rid of this monster for the rest of all time.
"I will not fail you, master", Vader said with a slight bow. "However, it would help if you had some information on the Jedi Master, including the location spotted and if he could have traversed outside of the Imperial city?"
"I don't have information you fool; all I know is that a man appearing to be a Jedi Master was spotted in the lower political district. That's all the information I have. Do you think that I would send your wretched carcass out if I were able to locate the man myself? That's why I have you, but if you require a lesson as to your true purpose as my apprentice, I would be happy to indulge you!", Sidious raged.
Fuck, this could get painful very quickly.
"No lesson is needed, mater. I will begin the hunt immediately, but it is possible he has left the planet by now", Vader reminded his master. He really shouldn't, it could get him killed, but what was he supposed to do, stalk the lower levels until he found a kriffing Jedi Master?
"If he is gone, then he is gone, but find out what his purpose was or I'll show you my purpose towards you, now get out", Sidious sneered.
Vader bowed and left his master's throne room. Seriously, what would happen next? Really, he should feel fortunate that he wasn't spotted with the Jedi Master, otherwise he would be dead and so would Padmé. Nothing in this galaxy ever went according to plan, nothing at all.
A/N: If you liked what you read, please feel free to drop a review and follow!