A/N: Thank you for the reviews and follows. That being said, please enjoy the next chapter!
Another two weeks had passed placing Padmé well into her third month of pregnancy. There had still been no communication from the Jedi, meaning that if something wasn't done soon, her husband would be forced to disclose the pregnancy to Sidious. The thought made her want to gag, but her babies would still be safely inside of her until their birth, giving the couple months to figure out their end game for the old bastard, and he was a bastard. Someone that deserved nothing but death for the misery he brought to the galaxy, hell to her own husband for years. There wasn't anything other than she would like to see than to have the man dead well before her children were born. Anything at all.
Sipping some hot tea, Padmé took herself into her room and laid down next to her still sleeping husband. He had been working later and later into the evenings, trying to organize his military for the eventual defeat of Sidious. He had to work carefully to avoid any suspicions from officers that may balk at the suggestion, only working with a handful of high ranking admirals and generals to quietly move assets and troops around, reshuffling the military piece by piece in order to have the bulk of it under a single unified command. While he controlled the entire military, he wasn't foolish enough to believe that he could wield the entire might of the armies and navies of the Empire by himself, which is why he needed his select handful of flag officers to have command over large new branches of the military.
The purpose was sound, he called it a trimming effect that would reduce on the bureaucracy of the military eliminating the need for various high ranking individuals that weren't pulling their weight within the organization. Sidious trusted Vader to organize the military for years, so Vader was largely left alone. Subordinate officers that may have disagreed with Vader had no direct link to Sidious, and it wasn't like Vader had become a benevolent leader since their marriage. Adored maybe, but certainly not benevolent. No one in their right mind would dare openly oppose him in the many meetings that he attended, not even some of the more outspoken officers as they would be dead within moments of voicing their angst against what Vader was doing.
Padmé admired how methodical her husband was in his scheme to kill Sidious. He wasn't stupid to believe that he was beyond suspicion, but he wasn't scared enough to take certain actions that would guarantee his eventual success.
Regardless of that, he was home and Padmé was enjoying having him at her side even if he was snoring. He was always adorable when he slept, reminding her of a damned teenaged boy. It nearly brought her to tears thinking about all of those nights that he would be by himself when he actually was a teenage boy, before he found his mother that is. How full of anger and hate he must have been thinking that the galaxy had completely turned its back against him to have him be Sidious' pawn in the grand scheme of things. Then he had been reunited with his wonderful mother and that stoked the change that had led to their eventual marriage and pregnancy. Padmé just knew that he would be a kind father to his children, loving them in the way only a father could. With strength and purpose. She would be brought to the verge of tears when she would place his hand against her stomach so he could feel the twins kick. His eyes would light up in wonder and amazement, unable to believe that he had a hand in creating those two precious babies.
She longed to see him hold them and kiss them. Hell, almost as much as she longed to hold and kiss them herself. But there still was so much to do to prepare for it, almost too much to do to prepare for it.
How would Sidious react when Vader would have to tell him that she was pregnant? Would he cackle like the madman he was, or would he torture her husband for not disclosing the fact to him sooner? Possibly a combination of both. The evil old man was just too damned gleeful in dealing out his punishments to her husband and she cringed every time he would have to go see him, preparing for him to come back home horribly burned to the point of needing anesthesia while he healed himself with the Force.
Padmé finished her tea and just sat for a while watching Vader sleep. Unable to help herself, she bent down and kissed his forehead gently, hoping that he could feel the gesture during whatever dream he was having. From their bond, it didn't sound like it was a particularly pleasant one with the emotions of fear and anger coming off his aura. But that wasn't anything new, he would always have nightmares from the past and they would come visit him no matter how joyful a particular day could be. It broke her heart even further that he still wore those mental scars, unable to break free from them entirely. Maybe being a father would finally help with healing him from those scars, maybe once Sidious was dead, he could finally be at peace.
Force, she needed to stop thinking about that. She wiped her eyes as tears rolled down her cheeks, unable to staunch them. These gods damned pregnancy hormones would be the end of her if she wasn't careful.
"What's wrong Angel", Vader mumbled with his eyes closed. Dammit, he had picked up on her emotions and they had woken him up.
"Nothing, darling", she said in her calmest voice possible. "I'm just hormonal, you go ahead and go back to sleep. You were up too late again last night."
Instead of listening to her, Vader propped himself up on one elbow and yawned. "I can't sleep the day away even though it sounds tempting, Padmé", he said as he looked at the chrono on the opposite wall. "I'll catch up on my sleep later tonight."
"That's what you said last night, my love", Padmé chided as she leaned over and kissed him.
"Well, I'll try again tonight", Vader said as he caught her head with his hand and pulled her down for another kiss, not that she minded at all.
It turned into a second kiss. Then a third kiss.
"Ani", Padmé pleaded.
"Padmé, you know I can't resist you", Vader said as he began nipping the side of her neck causing Padmé to moan.
"Must we", she whimpered.
"Yes, we must. Every chance we can get", he replied.
Padmé giggled and began undressing and Vader tugged down his sleep pants. They began making out with an unbridled passion, moving their lips in sync, knowing exactly what the other person wanted.
Vader took his time, gently caressing her, being mindful of her sensitive breasts.
"I'm on top this time", Padmé whispered.
Vader smirked and nodded. They had gotten used to less spirited love making because of the twins, but that was fine with them.
Padmé threw her leg over Vader and straddled him, easing herself down onto him while moaning. Vader closed his eyes for a moment, just enjoying the feeling. Both moaned and groaned as she began grinding on him sensually, almost delicately.
Vader's hands traveled up and down her body, enjoying the feeling of her supple skin and her curves. She bent down and kissed him passionately, rubbing herself on his pubic bone causing them to both moan in pleasure. Taking their time with one another.
Then, it became too much for Padmé. She started bucking her hips back and forth, needing to feel the release. Vader began panting from the wetness of her core. It would be one of the quickest lovemaking sessions that they ever had, but that was fine by them.
Vader touched her most sensitive area and began rubbing, causing Padmé to cry out. Her hips moved faster and faster and Vader groaned as she kept up her onslaught of passion.
With perfect timing, Padmé reached her peak and Vader threw his head back and cried out, reaching his as well. Padmé placed her hands on his muscular chest and just stayed in that position, panting. Vader rubbed her hips, enjoying the aftermath of their sex. It was wonderful.
"You incorrigible bastard", Padmé said with a giggle.
"It's just part of my charm", Vader said with a laugh.
"I'll give you that, my sweet", Padmé said as she bent down and kissed him sensually, thanking him for the idea.
She rolled off of him and laid next to him, both giving each other short kisses. Acting as a husband a wife should, especially a pregnant husband and wife.
"I guess we'd better get up and get ready for the day", Padmé said begrudgingly.
Vader threw his head back and groaned. "I never thought I'd say this, but I'd prefer we stay in bed all day and do nothing."
"That is a shock", Padmé said bewildered. "You've never said that before."
"I can't help it, my wife is beautiful and pregnant, there's nothing I'd rather do", he replied.
"I know", Padmé giggled. "But we have so much to do today."
"Fine", Vader said with a mock growl. "Let's get on with it."
They both got up and began dressing, Vader was ready first as usual while Padmé was still applying her makeup. The things that she had to do to stay beautiful, although Vader would call her beautiful regardless of how she looked, which always touched her heart.
When she was done, she stepped in her dress. A purple dress with yellow flowers that looked absolutely stunning on her frame. "Alright, Ani, come zip me up please", she called out.
"Again, it goes against my nature to zip you up, but seeing how we just had some great sex, I'll do so under duress", Vader joked causing them both to laugh.
Once they were ready, they headed downstairs for Vader to drink a quick cup of caff, forgoing breakfast since they were both late. Padmé had the foresight to munch on something while Vader was still asleep.
They loaded up in their speeder and shot off to the Senate.
Once they landed, Vader took his time helping his wife up the steps. The reporters saw them, and Vader swore. Ever since Padmé had woke from her coma, they had done their best to avoid the media.
"I guess we'd better answer a few questions", Vader growled.
"Now, now, Ani. It won't be that bad", Padmé chided gently.
They reached the top of the stairs and faced the reporter.
"We'll answer a few questions", Vader growled, causing the reporters to stand back a step. Adored or not, he was still a gods damned Lord of the Sith.
"Lady Vader, how do you feel since you've been awake from your coma?", a reporter asked.
"I'm feeling wonderful. My husband has been doing a great job taking care of me, which has been amazing", she replied.
"Lord Vader, you took Lady Vader's coma pretty hard. How are you feeling now?", a female reporter asked.
"I'm feeling great. I'm glad to have my wife back at my side where she belongs", he said.
"Can you both let us know if children are in the future?", another asked.
"It's something that we're working on", Padmé replied shortly.
"That's an incredibly personal question, but yes my wife is correct", Vader growled. "That'll be enough questions for the day."
As usual, the reporters took another step back and Padmé turned first, letting Vader give them another growl and stair. He then turned and followed his wife in the Senate building.
Vader walked Padmé to her office, enjoying spending the extra time with her.
"So, Dormé spent the night over at Admiral Piett's apartment again last night", Padmé said with a smile.
"Good, I'm glad to hear that", Vader replied with a smile. It was good to hear that the woman had moved on and found a relationship that she could flourish with.
"Exactly, I'm glad as well", Padmé replied. Relieved that her friend's feeling for Vader had seemingly evaporated. It wasn't that she didn't understand the long term crush Dormé had, she did, but Vader was her man, no one else's.
Once they reached her office, Vader gave her a solid kiss before turning away and going on to do whatever it was, he had to do
Padmé entered the office and saw Dormé typing away at her terminal. "Good morning, Dormé", Padmé said cheerfully.
"Good morning, Padmé", Dormé said. "You're a little late, but then again I was too. Morning lovemaking is the best, isn't it?"
"It is, you silly tart. I'm glad that you and Firmus are getting along so well", Padmé said. "It's wonderful to hear."
Dormé blushed "He certainly is showing his commanding side over his gentlemanly vibe, which is incredibly attractive", she replied. "It's like he's two different people sometimes, but I'm sure you're experienced in dealing with that."
"I most certainly am", Padmé said with a chuckle and a shake of her head. She knew it all too well, an was well used to it by now. "What's on our agenda for the day today?"
"You're to give a talk to several senators that are balking at the reallocation of funds to different systems for the production of small arms", Dormé said. "It's the usual, they're upset that the manufacturing is being spread to different systems."
"Oh, I'll fucking talk to them alright. I've made my thoughts clear, and I'm tired of the bitching", Padmé said with venom. Her job as Lady Vader was allowing her to show her aggressive negotiating skills again which she absolutely loved, though she was careful not to let it go to her head.
"Good, I'm sure that they'll be well educated after you speak with them", Dormé replied.
Another day in paradise.
…
Qui-Gon waited patiently outside the Jedi Council room, hoping that the aging Jedi Masters had made their decision. It was far too long since their last discussion about the topic, and he hoped that they had the gumption to tell him yes or no, instead of leaving him hanging yet again.
Vader needed their help and he needed it desperately. There was no way he could take Sidious on by himself, there was just no way. The powerful Sith Lord was too entrenched in the darkness for Vader to fight alone, especially given Vader's conflict in the Force.
He also had a sneaking suspicion that Padmé was pregnant, making this a ticking time bomb for Vader and the galaxy. If Sidious got his hands on Vader's offspring, it would be a crime against him and his wife. A terrible crime. No parents should have to lose their children in such a way. It would also be a crime against the galaxy. Qui-Gon shuddered at the possibility that there would be two new apprentices, as powerful in the force as Vader was. Of course, it would take years before they were ready, but under Sidious' tutelage, they would become overwhelmingly powerful in the darkness, especially if they had no conflict in their hearts.
Vader would ultimately be slain to prevent the rescue of their children as would Padmé. It was something that had to be prevented at all costs, damn the Jedi Code. It was rigid in that regard. Lives were lives and had to be protected at all costs, even if they were considered an enemy.
"We will see you now", Master Windu said from the door.
Qui-Gon slapped his knees and stood, walking into the chamber. He looked patiently at Yoda who was gathering his thoughts.
"Master Jinn, a decision, we have not made. For us to deliberate, more time is needed", Yoda said.
Qui-Gon was speechless for a moment. "Vader and his wife don't have the time; they are under threat from Sidious as we speak. I have searched my feelings and believe that Vader's wife is pregnant. Vader is concealing it well with the Force to where I suspect that Sidious doesn't even know at this point, but once the pregnancy reaches a certain stage, they won't be able to hide it. They need our help. They need it!", he said passionately.
"We're understanding of the situation, Master Jinn", Windu said. "But we cannot make a snap decision, not when we're talking about the man that butchered the majority of us when the Empire stomped out the Rebellion years after the Empire rose from the ashes of the Republic."
"That was years ago. I've spoken with Vader; he could have killed me twice. I don't believe that he's still hellbent on killing Jedi. In fact, he's hellbent on killing his master, freeing the galaxy from his rule", Qui-Gon said heatedly.
"For happen to what?", Yoda asked. "For Vader to rule instead?"
"No! I do not believe that he would rule, but even if he did, his wife would temper his rule, making him capable of unifying the galaxy. I've seen it in his heart. He wants stability, not destruction. It doesn't make sense for him to be tyrannical when he's shown his face, when he's married someone he loves. True Sith aren't able to love, and Vader loves his wife. That should be evidence alone that his heart is good", Qui-Gon replied.
"So know his heart you do? How is this possible?", Yoda inquired.
"Because, the second time I met with him, he touched my mind. I let him touch my mind and while he was doing that, I could see his mind, his heart. He is a good man. Instead of killing Ashoka, he had her escape Coruscant. A true Sith wouldn't have done those things. You have to understand that you have to believe it", Qui-Gon pleaded. "You can't tell me you haven't sensed the conflict within him."
"A conflict we have sensed", Yoda said. "Convinced on his intentions, we are not."
"How much longer will you need to deliberate?", Qui-Gon asked.
"That's unknown", Windu said. "This isn't something that can be rushed, Master Jinn. There is much for us to consider regarding the fate of the galaxy."
"Fine, I'll wait. But in the meantime, I believe we should at least invite Vader here. There are more than enough Jedi to ensure our safety, and he has sworn to come alone. Would you at least consider that?", Qui-Gone asked.
"Consider it we will. An answer on that, you will have shortly", Yoda said. "Go now, meditate on the things we have discussed."
"Very well", Qui-Gon said, feeling the sharp pain of defeat. He exited the Council chambers and felt the rare emotion of anger, which he quickly suppressed. There wasn't' a way that he could speed up the Council's decision. He felt hamstrung, that he was betraying Vader by negating on his word that he would at least be afforded the opportunity to plead his case. He just prayed that there would be enough time.
…
"So, what do you have to report on the merging of the second and third fleets", Vader asked Piett.
"Good progress, Milord. Admiral Haggard has agreed as long as he gets to stay second in command of the third fleet. He's a good officer, and I believe that he would be loyal to you", Piett said. "I have spoken with several of the captains of the fleet's destroyers. They admire you and so do their crews. It would be a perfect opportunity for us", Piett said.
"Excellent", Vader said. "General Veers, do you have anything to report on stationing three battalions of Stormtroopers near the Palace and Senate?"
"Yes, Milord. They have been approved by the commander of the security team. I'm unsure of his loyalties at the moment, but three battalions of Stormtroopers would be a good start, we would need more men to ensure ground success for when the time is right, but we are working on it", Veers replied. "I'm selecting the most loyal men that have served with you in combat, especially the men that served with you on Christophsis and the battle of Amari. They will follow you to hell and back."
"Very good, keep me posted. I must reveal to the both of you now, that over the years, I have acquired thousands of droids in a warehouse in the industrial section of Coruscant. They will be of use to us in fighting. All have been programed to be loyal to me, so I will have my techs install commands to be loyal to the officers that we have selected to lead the ground element. What are your thoughts on that?", Vader asked.
Both men looked astounded.
"How were you able to acquire so many droids, Milord?", Piett asked. "That must have been an expensive endeavor."
"I have used a source that has enabled me to acquire additional funds outside of my personal wealth", Vader replied. "I have been doing so for the last several years, knowing that this moment will eventually come."
"Excellent, Milord", Veers said. "We'll take all the help we can get."
"Good to hear, General", Vader said. "Keep me posted on the status of acquiring additional troops as we need to move quickly. My wife is over three months pregnant, and we won't be able to conceal it for much longer. We will likely have to disclose the pregnancy before we are ready, but it is imperative that we are ready before she reaches eight months. I will not have my children abducted by Sidious. You both know that would mean that I would be swiftly executed, and another would temporarily be installed in my place, ensuring that Star Dust is completed. I don't have to tell you what that will mean for the galaxy."
The flag officers tensed with looks of fear on their faces.
"We shall redouble our efforts", Piett said.
"That's all I need to here, gentlemen", Vader said as he rose. "Keep up the good work and let me know if anything is needed from my end."
"Yes, Milord", both men replied simultaneously.
Vader exited the room and found an alcove to breath in. It wasn't just the damned fleets and troops that he needed. It was the gods damned Jedi that he had to have at his side if he was to defeat Sidious. All the capital ships, Stormtroopers, and droids wouldn't help him kill Sidious. They would be taken apart by his master easily, or it would merely launch the Empire into a civil war, eliminating his chance at gaining access to Sidious. He would do whatever he needed to do to protect his wife and unborn children, but that was besides the point. Gods dammit, he needed Jinn to pull through!
Stalking to his office he sat down and began entering commands to review the assets that had been transferred under the unified command. It was impressive, but more was needed. He was certain that his officers would be able to make it happen, he just needed more time, but time was a fucking luxury at this point.
Shit.
…
Ashoka wasn't happy. She had a plan to kill both Vader and his master, but that plan had been dashed when Vader had convinced her to rejoin the Jedi on Yavin Four. It was like her entire purpose in life had been smashed. She had met with Qui-Gon who assured her that there was a plan in place, it would just take the Council time to approve it.
Time, too much time. She knew that the Empire was growing more powerful each day. Even if Vader was wanting to bring stability to the galaxy, which she wasn't entirely convinced on, she knew that it would be difficult to do so the longer Palpatine was in power. She knew Star Dust was a weapon, a powerful weapon to be so classified, and it couldn't be built, no matter what. Damn Vader for convincing her to abandon her plan.
She did suppose that there was hope in Vader as he didn't kill her, he merely sent her on her way. That was something that shocked her. The moment she saw him at her door, she feared that her life was forfeit, but instead of killing her, he spoke to her. Convinced her that his plan was just. Qui-Gon was probably correct in that there was a conflict in him for him to check his temper and not kill her.
There had to be another way, she had to be able to kill Palpatine without the help of the Jedi Council. She just didn't know how. She knew that there was much for her to learn, and she had been meditating constantly for months while on Coruscant to improve her powers, but even then it didn't seem like it would be enough.
She punched the stone wall in frustration, needing to get out her frustration about the Jedi Council, about Vader derailing her from her plan, about the Emperor still being in power. Something needed to be done, she just didn't know how to accomplish it.
…
Bail Organa was furious. He had trusted Qui-Gon to do the right thing, but instead of listening to him, the man went to Coruscant and defied his orders. He likely was either dead or with the Jedi Council. Ha. The Council. While they were still considered as allies to the Rebellion, they had done nothing to come to their aid.
Did Bail have a powerful fleet? Yes, after patience and time he had been able to acquire over a thousand starfighters, two hundred ships with eighty of them being capital ships. When the Imperial fleet jumped in near the Hapes cluster, he had been tempted to fight, but he knew that even if he had won, he would have lost at least two thirds of his fleet. It would be difficult to rebuild what he had obtained as it had taken time, too much time to develop what he already had.
Was that cowardice? No, it was strategy. He simply couldn't abandon his principles of taking the fight to the enemy at a later date, causing even more casualties just because he wanted to fight them now. It would mean the destruction of the Rebellion.
Then there was Padmé. Never in his wildest dreams did he think that she would align herself with the Empire. It had been a colossal mistake to keep her out of the fold when the Rebellion went dark after Vader had smashed them years ago. He should have listened to his gut, not Mon Mothma. Mothma had made a terrible mistake and it had cost her dearly.
Throwing a pad against the bulkhead in frustration, he got up and began pacing around. There had to be a target that he could hit, a low valued target to flex his muscles and let the Empire know that he wasn't afraid to fight. To put fear into them. But what would the cost be? Vader would surely retaliate and hunt them down mercilessly as he had done before.
No, patience was the correct answer. He just didn't know how much patience he had left in him.
…
Vader stalked to Sidious' chambers after being informed that he had been summoned. Summoned. He despised the word, especially pertaining to Sidious. The old fool was too power hungry to realize that he was not a god, he was a mortal, a powerful mortal, but still a mortal. One who would hopefully be dead within the next few months at the most.
But that didn't matter at this point. There was still too much work, too much to do. He couldn't bog his mind down and possibly have his thoughts be detected, no matter how powerful his mental blocks were. Sidious was too strong, too powerful, and if he decided to shred his mind with the Force, he would certainly be discovered.
Patience was required, patience that he didn't have. He knew his wife was becoming more worried by the day and he couldn't blame her, he was worried himself. But he despised that his wife had to deal with the pregnancy and the fear of losing him along with her children. If only they could escape to an unknown world and live their lives in secret, but Sidious would find them. He was too gods damned powerful not to find them. They would be hunted relentlessly until found. No, fighting was their best option, even if it meant his death.
He didn't want to die; he wanted to hold his children and raise them to become good people. To become strong in the Force without having to touch darkness. That was his mission, to be their father and their mentor, but he couldn't do that if he was dead.
Reaching Sidious' chambers, he quieted his mind and ensured his barriers were firmly in place. He pushed open the doors and marched to Sidious, stopping ten paces and kneeling in front of them. "What is they bidding my master?", he asked as usual.
"Rise Lord Vader", Sidious commanded.
Vader stood and waited for his master to speak.
"What is being done to hunt down the Rebel fleet commanded by Bail Organa?", Sidious asked.
Bail Organa? Vader didn't know that fool was still alive and in command of the Rebel fleet. "We are continuously searching. Scout ships have been deployed to the most unpopulated areas of the galaxy. There hasn't been a sighting of them since the second fleet jumped in near the Hapes cluster. Instead of fighting, the cursed Rebels fled, not allowing our ships to engage them. They have grown powerful, over two hundred ships and a thousand starfighters. This will be problematic to deal with, but I'm capable of finding them and crushing them", Vader said.
"I want them crushed now!", Sidious snarled. "A fleet of that size cannot be allowed to go unchecked. They could cause chaos and begin to unravel the Empire if they begin to obtain victories against us."
"I understand, master, and I have the same concerns", Vader said. "They will be found and destroyed; of that you have my word."
"Your word, you always give me your word, but it has proved meaningless to me time after time, Lord Vader", Sidious sneered. "I will give you your chance, but if you are unable to find them, I will have to take matters into my own hands, and that is something that you do not want", Sidious threatened.
"Understood, master", Vader replied.
"I wonder, is your wife completely aligned with our cause? If she is providing a negative influence over your command decisions, then that would be most unfortunate for her and you", Sidious warned.
The fucking bastard just threatened his wife again. Vader clenched his fists, controlling himself so he wouldn't have to snatch his lightsabers from his belt and kill his master, well at least try and kill him.
"My wife is perfectly aligned with our cause. I would not have begun a relationship with her if she still had feelings towards the Rebellion. She did deliver Mothma to me, and I saw that she was tortured and confessed to her schemes", Vader said. "Her loyalty is not in question, master."
Sidious sat back in his throne. "Good, but if I ever suspect otherwise, she will be killed and you will marry another woman to impregnant", Sidious said.
"That will be unnecessary, master", Vader said, his temper flaring.
"I can feel your anger to my words. Good. Continue to feel the darkness flowing through your veins. I will not have an apprentice that is growing soft. Let your hatred rule your decisions, even those decisions pertaining to your wife, that is my command to you, Lord Vader", Sidious said.
Fuck, Vader needed to control his anger, or he would be in trouble.
"As you wish, master", Vader said.
"Good, now get out", Sidious commanded.
Vader gave a short bow and exited the throne room. This was getting out of hand.
…
Padmé was relieved. She had been able to quell the unruly senators with relative ease. She was beginning to learn to use her position to put pressure on those that opposed her, and it was working. There wasn't a thing that the senators could do to circumvent her authority in the matters that she was tasked, and it felt wonderful. Not that she was on a power trip of any sorts, she was merely able to break through the incessant arguing that the Senate had devolved into upon the collapse of the Republic.
If she played her cards right, she would be able to right some of the wrongs in the Senate, turn it into the organization that it needed to be. A place where there could be debate that would flourish into good decisions, not power grabs or times where they would squabble over items of unimportance.
This did go slightly against her prior beliefs that the Senate was a place of democracy, that the inherent good in people would overcome the evil. But that philosophy had been incorrect, it had allowed Sidious to gain power and turn the galaxy into an Empire. An Empire that she now sided with, but one where she prayed Sidious would no longer rule. Where he would be killed, wand a new government could be established. What that government would look like, she had no idea. She would need to look to her husband for advice and inspiration on how they would manage the power vacuum as the last thing that she wanted was to create something that would lead to a civil war amongst the various power factions in the galaxy.
But worrying about that would have to come after Sidious' death, not before. Her husband still had the massive challenge of killing him, a challenge that would greatly be dependent on the help of the Jedi. It made her nervous that Qui-Gon had yet to message him, letting him know that it was time for him to travel to Yavin Four to plead his case that he needed their help. She of course would go with him as agreed, but they needed the gods damned invitation first.
Fuck the Jedi for taking their time when the galaxy hung in the balance of her pregnancy. Of course, they didn't know that she was pregnant, which may have been an error on their part, but from what her husband told her Qui-Gon knew of the ramifications if she was pregnant. The fools in the Jedi Council were always too slow. That's how Sidious gained power in the first place. They were too stuck in their ways, not acting when they should. It irked her to no end that they let trillions be subjugated by Sidious because of their failures.
This project Star Dust would be the bane of the galaxy's existence if Sidious was allowed to remain in power. There would be untold destruction across the galaxy if a fucking planet killer could be used at the whim of that insane bastard, but what the fuck could she do about it? Both her and her husband literally had their hands tied as they had no authority to control the project as it was directly influenced by Sidious. It was his design, his every want and need. There would be no going back.
Reaching her desk, she sat down, feeling faint. The pregnancy was certainly taking a toll on her body and it was difficult to portray that she had the energy to go on with what she needed to do and knew that it would only get worse. The last thing that she wanted to do was give a hint to Sidious that there was an issue, but within the next month, the pregnancy would have to be disclosed anyway. Kriffing hell, what would happen then? Would she be arrested and kept under guard until she delivered her children? That was a frightening possibility, one that shook her to her very core. There had to be a way to safeguard her children, to safeguard herself before she gave birth to them.
Her husband would figure out a way, he always did. She trusted him completely and knew that he would not allow such a thing to happen. But the last thing that she wanted was for his death to take place in order to enact such a plan. She needed him badly. Dammit, she couldn't go down that rabbit hole right now, she couldn't fucking break down in her office. There was too much to do, too much at stake to appear overly emotional at this point.
"Padmé, everything will be fine."
Her head shot up. "Ani", she whispered as she rose and went to him. "What are you doing here, my love?" She clung to his robes, letting him wrap his arms around her.
"I sensed you were troubled and came, Angel", Vader said. "Can't you feel me through our bond?"
"I can, Ani. I felt you become angered earlier and didn't know what was wrong", Padmé said. "Was it Sidious?"
"It was, Angel. He's angered that the Rebel fleet is still in existence. I'm to redouble my efforts to finding them and crushing them", Vader said.
"But won't that put us in jeopardy with the Council", Padmé whispered.
"It probably would, which is why I'm hoping that I'll be contacted soon", Vader whispered back.
"Oh fuck. Ani, we're running out of time", Padmé said as she felt tears seep out of her eyes.
"It's alright, Angel. Be at peace. Feel my calm through our bond and let it still your mind. Everything will work out the way it needs to, I promise", Vader said.
Padmé instantly felt better. She could feel her husband's calming effect through their bond, replacing her worry with hope. If he could be strong enough for her then she needed to be strong enough for him. He needed her strength and support as he couldn't bear the weight of dealing with all of this by himself. He was strong, very strong, but she was his wife, dammit. They were one.
"Thank you, Ani", she whispered, burying her face into his chest. "I needed you so much."
"I needed you too, Angel", Vader whispered in reply. "I always need you."
She felt him nuzzle his face into her hair and she smiled. He loved doing that and she loved it when he did it. It brought them both comfort knowing that they longed for one another, even though they were married. Damn their relationship was good.
"Of course, our relationship is good", Vader said into her hair. "It's the best one in the galaxy."
"You heard that?", Padmé asked shocked that her husband picked up on her thoughts.
"I did, Angel. Our bond is growing stronger every day. You have been picking up on my thoughts as well, haven't you?", he asked.
"I have", Padmé said in wonder. "It's unlike anything I've ever felt before. I cherish it immensely."
"As do I, Angel", Vader said as he kissed the top of her head. "You and I are truly becoming one, and it is the greatest gift the Force could ever grant us, aside from our children."
Padmé choked back a sob at those beautiful words.
"There, there, Angel. Take solace in my words", he said.
"I will, Ani", she replied.
She pulled back from their embrace and tilted her head up to her husband with her lips parted. Vader immediately bent down and gave her a deep kiss, both relishing the taste of one another's lips. They had come so far as a couple. Their first meeting atop the roof of the Senate seemed so recent yet so far away considering how greatly their relationship had been developed. It was truly unlike anything either of them had ever experienced.
"What's on your agenda for the rest of the day?", Padmé asked.
"More meetings, too many meetings", Vader said. "We actually need to sit in with a meeting later today regarding project Star Dust. I didn't know if you were aware of that."
"I saw it on my calendar this morning, but I was hoping it would be canceled as every time I have to listen to Krennic I feel ill", Padmé said.
"You and me both", Vader said. "The man has too much power, more power than I do in some regards. I can't stand the notion that the project is continuing but have faith that all will be taken care of soon."
"I'll try, husband. I'll try", Padmé replied.
"Good. I need to go to another meeting now, but I wanted to make certain that you were alright", Vader said.
"I'll be fine", Padmé said. "Thank you for coming, Ani. I love you."
"And I love you, Angel", Vader said.
They kissed once more, and Vader turned and left. Padmé sat down at her desk, feeling much better at the situation. She loved her husband more than anything and was pleased that he could make her feel better so easily. She would focus more on their bond, letting it strengthen so they could eventually communicate by mere thoughts. That would be wonderful.
…
Later in the day, Padmé journeyed to the conference room to meet her husband and listen to Krennic babble on about the monstrosity of a project that was underway. She entered the conference room and saw her husband. He rose and gave her a brief embrace, even though there were other officers in the room. Damn them if they said anything, they were Lord and Lady Vader, they could pound sand if they had a problem with the public display of affection.
Padmé sat down at the conference table and waited for the presentation to begin. The snake, Krennic was running late to his own fucking meeting, which pissed her off. The man was so pompous that he didn't believe that being punctual to his own presentation was important. She wished her husband would skewer him with his lightsaber.
Vader placed a hand on her knee and she nearly blushed, realizing that her thoughts were flowing through their bond. She faintly heard him communicate to be at peace, which almost made her turn and beam at him. She could hear him as well. This was amazing.
Finally, Krennic strode into the room with a swagger that he wasn't entitled to.
"Apologies for being late, I was held up with another pressing matter. As we've discussed, construction on the skeleton of the battle station is going smoothly. We have enough raw materials, and it should be completed within the next two years given the massive size of the battle station. Once the skeleton is completed, we'll install the reactor core which will provide power to the station along with the superweapon. There will be an ask amongst the navy, and that will be to halt production on new Star Destroyers for the time being to transfer resources to the battle station. I know that may seem controversial to some given that the need for galactic security is paramount, but the completion of this weapon will ensure that we have full control of the galaxy", Krennic said in a long winded speech.
"That will take away from my operations in the outer rim", an unknown admiral said. "I won't be able to secure planets such as Kessel or Mon Calamari without the slated fleet of new destroyers."
"I understand that, Admiral, but this order has come down from the Emperor himself. Resources from other fleets may be tasked at Lord Vader's discretion if needed", Krennic said. "Isn't that correct, Lord Vader?"
Padmé could sense ire from her husband through their bond.
"It is, Director. But there are other considerations that will have to be reviewed prior to entertaining such a request. The Rebel fleet has grown in size and seizing new territories may prove to be a mistake if we are unable to adequately defend them should the Rebels decide to strike with a superior force", Vader said. "This includes seizing planets such as Kessel and Mon Calamari. Those are vital strategic targets, but we would have to have entire fleets of destroyers and support ships in order to hold those systems alone, which isn't something that I can authorize at the moment."
The admiral who brought up the question looked defeated, but Padmé found her husband's logic to be sound. If only a handful of destroyers were left to guard the territories, the Rebels would be able to strike them at a moments notice, destroying them. If an entire fleet was sent to guard an outer rim territory, it would take away vital resources from patrolling the rest of the galaxy.
"I will defer to you of course, Lord Vader", the admiral said.
Vader said nothing in response, knowing that his message was received. No other admiral voiced objections to Krennic's plan to halt production on the new destroyers for the time being at least. It was interesting how there were so many power grabs even amongst the Imperial military.
"Good. Now that we have that out of the way, once we the main power system is installed, we'll be able to finish our design of the rest of the structure to include all other vital systems and crew quarters. This will take time considering the number of weapons and fighters that will be needed to support the battle station, but we have our engineers working as quickly as they can in order to complete that portion of the project", Krennic continued. "I don't foresee any issues, but again it will take time to complete this battle station. We are still looking at a minimum of fifteen years to complete it, but possibly even longer. The Empire is here to stay, so the battle station will take priority for some time."
"For anyone questioning this, I believe that you will need to refer to the new doctrine that I have proposed", Moff Tarkin said. "We shouldn't waste our time with fleets of destroyers when we can impose control and fear into the hearts of the galaxy with a single battle station that can be moved across the galaxy at a moments notice. Fear is the crucial weapon that will bind the Empire together forever."
Vader scoffed. "Your faith in a technological monstrosity is unsettling, Moff Tarkin. The Force is supreme over any weapon of mass destruction, even this weapon", he said.
"Your outdated religion won't hold any power once the station is completed", Captain Tagge said.
Vader raised his hand and Tagge began choking as his trachea was closed. Padmé felt her husband's annoyance but knew that he wasn't about to kill the man, he was merely making a point.
Tagge continued to choke while grasping his collar until he was about to collapse on the table.
Vader released him and Tagge began to suck in air and Padmé could see the pure terror in his eyes, knowing that if Vader had kept up his attack, he would have been dead in mere seconds.
"Do I require any further demonstration?", Vader asked the group.
Krennic cleared his throat. "No further demonstration is necessary, Milord. We believe that you have made your point quite clear, and it is respected", he said.
Padmé successfully resisted the urge to smirk at her husband's demonstration. The Force was more powerful than any weapon, it made her husband the man he was, and he was fucking powerful. More powerful than almost any other being, save for Sidious.
The meeting broke and Padmé and Vader filtered out of the conference room. They found a quiet alcove where they could talk.
"That was an effective demonstration that you provided, husband", Padmé said, smirking this time.
"Thank you. I merely wanted them to understand that this project will never be more powerful than those who wield the Force. When the time comes, they will all truly see how much they are mistaken in their beliefs that ruling through terror will make the Empire stronger", Vader whispered.
"Agreed", Padmé replied. "Let's go home, I'm feeling exhausted."
"That's the best thing you've said all day, wife", Vader agreed.
…
"So, I suppose that we need to continue to think of names", Vader said as he sipped on a rare bourbon. He had cut back his drinking considerably since Padmé became pregnant, but she had encouraged him to partake in a drink after such a stressful day.
"I know, I feel like we keep putting it off", Padmé said. "Do you have any thoughts? Remember, I'm not the only one in this relationship that will need to think of one."
Vader thought for a moment. He had been thinking of names, but he was still uncertain. "I suppose a good name for a boy would be Luke", he said.
"Luke", Padmé repeated. "I like the sound of that."
"Then at least that's settled. It'll be nice when we go for a scan next week to see the genders of the children. That'll make it a little easier to decide on names", Vader mused.
"I suppose you're right. I've been thinking of girl names. One name that I like is Leia. It sounds like the name of a flower", she said.
"Leia, I like the sound of that name", Vader said with a smile. "I think that gives us some leeway then."
"I think it does too", Padmé said.
Vader was beyond thrilled that they had chosen names for their children. If they had a boy and a girl, their decisions would be final. Something told him that they would have a boy and a girl, he just didn't know how to explain it.
"You're strong in the Force, Ani. I'm sure that you can sense the genders of our children", Padmé said.
Vader looked up at her in surprise and smiled. "You're getting better at reading me, Padmé", he said. "That's wonderful, our thoughts are truly becoming one as they should be."
His wife beamed a smile at him which he absolutely adored.
Everything would work out, he just had to have faith.
A/N: I hope you enjoyed the chapter and are liking the fact that their bond is growing stronger. I always had the notion that if they were bonded like this in canon, Padmé would've sensed Anakin's struggles and would have been able to help him. Anyway, just a thought. As usual, if you liked what you've read, please consider dropping a review and following!