A/N: Warning: The following chapter contains graphic violence and depictions of sexual assault.

TATOOINE- HYPERSPACE

FEBRUARY YEAR 1053

Kyp breathed a sigh of relief as he exited Tatooine's orbit and made his way to the nav points Commander Thrawn had sent him, where he was set to rendezvous with his ride back to Chiss space. The negotiations with the Vong Freed Ones' leaders had gone well, despite Kyp's self-doubts. He was really more of a fighter than a diplomat, after all. But everything had gone smoothly and the Freed Ones were now activating their sleeper units in preparation for the final battle.

It would come soon, Kyp knew. The Freed Ones had informed Kyp that there was concern in the Vong warrior ranks, that the Imperials had seen unmitigated success as of late. There were reports that the Imperials were somehow targeting and striking the yammosks controlling their warships without being anywhere near them.

Kyp would have to congratulate Jag next time he saw him. Using the cloaked clawcrafts to locate the yammosks and fire on them with proton torpedos packed with baradium in advance of the main fleet- it really had been pure genius. And apparently, the Vong still had not figured out how they were doing it, meaning Jag's strategy would continue to be effective. At least for a little while longer.

Deciding he was probably far enough away from the planet to risk using his long-range comm, Kyp turned it on to check if he had any messages. Seeing that he actually had quite a few, Kyp was about to go through them when he received an incoming call from Jagged Fel's personal coded frequency.

Kyp had a bad feeling as soon as he saw the wrong Fel brother appear on the holo. He just hoped Jag hadn't managed to get himself killed- he did not want to be the one to tell Jaina she was a widow.

"What's happened? Where's Jag?" Kyp questioned immediately.

"He's been taken prisoner by the Emperor," Cem answered in a tightly controlled voice, but Kyp could see the panic in the younger man's eyes. "And the CEFD will do nothing to get him back."

"What? How the kriff did that happen?" Kyp questioned in shock. This was not at all what he had been expecting.

"I don't know, exactly," Cem answered, continuing hurriedly. "Well, I do. I just- it's a long story."

"Why don't you give me the cliff notes," Kyp answered wryly.

"Jag found out about a peace treaty the Emperor is planning to sign with the Vong. One that will give them all the Outer Rim planets and then some."

"That is absolute lunacy," Kyp sputtered. "The Vong don't do peace. If anything he's only making it easier for them to stage a full-scale invasion, take over the entire galaxy!"

"That's pretty much what Jag said," Cem replied. "So he stormed off, demanding entry into the Emperor's private study. I was told to wait outside so I'm not really sure what happened in there, but next thing I know the guards are bursting into the room and tackling Jag. Who was just about to shoot the Emperor square between the eyes."

Kyp's eyes widened, "I will never question the man's Coreillian blood again."

"I was able to get off-planet without being detained, pretended to be a TIE pilot under Commander Darklighter's command," Cem continued ignoring Kyp's interjection.

"Smart," Kyp said, nodding in approval.

"As soon as I got out, I contacted the CEFD about extraction plans. And they told me there was nothing they could do," Cem scoffed. "That since he had attempted to assassinate the Emperor in front of multiple witnesses, they had no choice but to rescind Jag's position and status in the CEFD."

"What?" Kyp exclaimed. "That's ridiculous! So, what, they're just going to leave one of their most competent officers to rot in Jovan's prison?"

"Seems like it. I'm working with Commander Darklighter and a few other Imperials Jag trusted to find a way to get him out," Cem responded. "But if you're in the area, any help would be much appreciated."

"Of course. Where are you now?" Kyp asked readily.

"Naboo."

"I should be there in a few days. If anything changes contact me immediately," Kyp instructed.

"Understood," Cem answered before shutting down the commlink.

Kyp tapped his fingers impatiently against the comm unit, hoping his transport would arrive soon. And that whoever was in charge would be amenable to flying to Naboo. It would save some time if Kyp didn't have to take control of the ship by force.

As soon as Kyp's TIE landed in the docking bay of the transport he leaped out of his fighter and hurried to the airlock door. He was already marshaling his arguments on why they needed to reverse course and head further into Imperial space. Palming the door open, he was surprised to see a familiar face heading his way.

"And here I thought you were retired," Kyp couldn't resist teasing the older man.

"I requested to command the transport," Wedge answered grimly. "We have a major problem."

"I know, I just heard," Kyp answered, voice turning serious. "Which is why we need to get to Naboo as soon as possible."

"Naboo?" Wedge asked, in confusion. "Why would Jaina be on Naboo?"

"Jaina?" Kyp asked, equally bewildered. "What does Jaina have to do with anything?"

"A lot, I would think, since the problem is that she's missing," Wedge answered exasperatedly.

Kyp stared at the older man in shock, then frowned.

"Of course she is," he muttered. "I swear the pair of them are trying to put me in an early grave."

"The pair of who?" Wedge asked, starting to get annoyed with their cryptic conversation.

"Jaina and your nephew," Kyp answered with a sigh. "For now let's make our way to Naboo. At least we actually know where Jag is."

What's going on with Jag?" Wedge asked in concern.

"I'll explain on the way, and you can tell me what you know about Jaina. We need to find her, of course, but first, we need a place to start looking," Kyp answered, already moving briskly towards the ship's bridge. "Preferably before we save your nephew; he is not going to take this news well. And it turns out he's actually a lot more capable of reckless behavior than I gave him credit for."

CORUSCANT

FEBRUARY YEAR 1053

Jovan sat in his study, reviewing the final arrangements for the peace conference with the Vong. Things looked set for a promising event tonight, though there were still a few Moffs mumbling about their misgivings. They would come to his way of thinking though; that or they would be quickly silenced and removed.

Jovan's thoughts were interrupted as the door to his study opened and he smiled as his nephew entered.

"Ah, Zekk, you're back. I suppose you've heard, you missed all the excitement?" Jovan asked.

"Yes," Zekk answered. "I must admit, I'm disappointed I missed the arrest of Fel."

"I thought you would be," Joran responded drily. "I for one could have done without the dramatics, but I won't quibble at the results. I assume then, you would enjoy disposing of him?"

Zekk straightened, his mouth turning into a smirk, "It would be my pleasure."

Jovan eyed his nephew appreciatively, knowing that he took much enjoyment from the suffering of others. He also knew Zekk's hatred of Jagged Fel ran deep and was satisfied that Zekk would make the last moments of the boy's life truly hellish.

"He's in the cells below the palace. I figured a week to sit and shiver while imagining the fate that awaits him would help strip away some of his intolerable arrogance," Jovan informed his nephew with a small smile. "He is to be dispatched with no due attention, the last thing we need is the military to get wind of it. Do it tonight, while the squadrons are all off-planet and people's thoughts are on the peace conference."

"I will see to it," Zekk answered. "And by this time tomorrow we will finally be rid of the traitorous bastard."

"It might be prudent to see if you can get your hands on an amphistaff after to leave at the scene of the crime. We can always lay the blame on our new allies," Jovan suggested.

Zekk nodded and assuming he was dismissed began to turn towards the door when Jovan lifted a hand to stay him.

"You never did mention why you left so suddenly," Jovan asked, with mild interest. "I'm assuming your trip went well?"

He had noticed the impatient gleam in the younger man's eyes. The barely contained eagerness in his movements.

"Yes, very well, Uncle," Zekk answered.

Jovan raised an eyebrow, waiting for more.

"I received a holo message from Fett, had to pick up an important delivery he had for me," Zekk continued slowly.

"In what form?" Jovan prodded, having a feeling there was more to the story.

"A woman."

"You have Fett finding your women for you now?" Jovan asked, with a raised brow. "While I'm not against it, it does seem a waste of his talents. I'll have to start putting out some more bounties if only to keep him busy."

"It wasn't just any woman," Zekk allowed warily. "But she was mine, anyway. Fett was simply sending her back where she belonged."

Jovan felt a sense of unease, a sudden feeling that his nephew was about to tell him something he wasn't going to like. And just when everything was going so well.

"Go on," Jovan said, his voice lowering dangerously.

"Fett found Jaina Solo," Zekk answered, knowing his uncle was bound to find out sooner or later. Might as well rip off the bacta patch now.

"I told you to leave that alone," Jovan said sharply. "We can't afford a war with Alderaan and Hapes, and if her family finds out…"

"But they agreed to the engagement!"

"Yes, but that was before you murdered Anakin Solo in cold blood," Jovan responded flippantly.

Jovan felt a flare of annoyance at his nephew's obstinancy. But then he thought of how furious Han and Leia Solo would be, deciding maybe it was with the trouble after all. Besides, after tonight, the Empire would also have a new ally, one they could use against Alderaan if push came to shove.

"Well, If you can hold onto her, then she's yours," Jovan relented. "You deserve a reward for all you have done to secure this peace treaty, after all."

Pleased, Zekk asked, "Then I have your permission to marry her?"

"If that's what you want," Jovan allowed. "But I would recommend holding off on the formalities for now. Wait until you've brought her to heel; it will make it easier to avoid Alderaan's wrath if they think she's willing. Even better if you can get her pregnant with your heir- the Solos won't be able to do much then."

Zekk grinned in response, "Exactly what I was thinking."

"Go on, then," Jovan said with a wave of his hand. "Just don't get so distracted that you forget about Fel. I want him gone tonight."

"Oh, don't worry, Uncle," Zekk responded with a nasty grin. "To be honest, I'm not sure which task I'm looking forward to more."

Still in considerable pain from the vicious beatings he had endured from the Royal Guards, Jag's discomfort was only increased by the heavy chains weighing him down. His feet were shackled to the floor, his arms chained behind his back. And a heavy metal collar made it impossible to move from the kneeling position they had left him in.

Not that Jag had the energy to move much as it was.

He wasn't sure how long it had been since his arrest, since he had been left in this damp tiny cell, alone in the utter darkness. A guard had come a few times to give him a little bit of food and water. Just enough to keep him alive.

The Emperor wouldn't want him to die before he had exacted his full revenge, Jag thought bitterly. The last time a guard had brought him sustenance he had rammed his boot twice into Jag's stomach as a parting gesture, and Jag was fairly certain he had at least a few broken ribs to show for it.

Hearing the cell door open Jag didn't even bother looking up, assuming it was another guard here to ensure that he didn't cheat the Emperor of any of further anguish he had planned.

"The great Jagged Fel chained to the wall like a common criminal. This is a sight I will remember for a long time to come."

The familiar voice was enough to make Jag snap his head up, green eyes focusing on the self-satisfied man in front of him. Jag kept silent, his hateful glare speaking volumes.

Zekk moved closer, thoroughly enjoying the sight of his nemesis brought so low.

"You have to admit, there is a certain sense of symmetry," Zekk taunted. "You're going to die in the very same cell as your traitorous failure of a father. I guess it's true what they say, like father like son."

"If you're going to kill me, just get on with it," Jag answered through gritted teeth.

"Oh, I will," Zekk assured him. "Just not yet. I've waited for this moment far too long to have it over and done that quickly. Unfortunately, we'll have to leave the real fun for later. I have a prior engagement I need to attend to first."

"Something more important than tormenting me?" Jag asked sardonically. "Should I be insulted?"

Zekk laughed, "As much as I am looking forward to your suffering, it's rude to keep a lady waiting."

"Is this part of the torture, then?" Jag answered in a dull tone. "Boring me to death with stories about your latest conquests?"

"Oh, I think you'll find this one particularly interesting," Zekk answered gleefully. "Did I forget to mention that Boba Fett brought me a little present from his recent trip to Chiss space? Pretty little thing. Long brown hair, big brown eyes. A bit of a temper, but nothing I can't handle..."

Jag's heart dropped as his pulse quickened.

"Jaina," he whispered, voice laced with a fear he hadn't once shown in the face of his own death.

"Yes, Jaina Solo," Zekk drawled. "I am so looking forward to becoming reacquainted with her."

Jag struggled against his chains, his eyes burning with pure loathing, "You bastard. If you lay a hand on her-"

"Guards," Zekk called as he walked towards the door of the cell. "Give Fel here a small taste of what he's got coming later tonight. After I've had my fill of the lovely Jaina Solo, of course. Just make sure he doesn't lose consciousness- I want him to be fully aware, imagining everything I'm doing to her while I'm gone."

Three Royal Guards stepped in menacingly, but Jag hardly noticed them, he was so focused on trying to free himself and stop Zekk from leaving his cell.

"Don't worry, Fel," Zekk said over his shoulder before sauntering out. "I'll make sure to give you all the sordid details later."

Jag felt a helpless rage take over, fueling his battered body as he fought against the chains and the Royal Guards with a fierce determination. But it was no use.

There was nothing that he could do to help Jaina, and he realized Zekk had found the ultimate weapon to use against him.

Jaina finally clawed her way to consciousness, her body groggy and her head throbbing. Opening her eyes, she looked around blearily, not recognizing where she was.

The room was plain, with white walls and black tiled floors. There were no windows. No furniture besides the bed she was laying on. And no hints in the spartan decor to help jog her memory on where she was and how she had gotten there. Jaina sat up, trying to push through the fog that clouded her mind.

She knew she had been flying the headhunter on her way to meet the Antilles and the Fels… and then her pulse raced as she remembered what had come after. Being captured by Boba Fett, stunned by the Stormtroopers. And now she woke up here, unsure of how much time had passed. If she was still on the frigate or if they had arrived on a planet somewhere.

But one thing she did know. She was now a prisoner of the Empire.

Suddenly the door to her room opened, shutting quickly behind a hooded figure. Jaina couldn't tell who this new person was, but she easily deduced that the figure was too small to be Boba Fett.

Or, thank the Force, Zekk.

Jaina felt a rising hope that maybe this person was here to save her. Or at least someone she could ask for help.

"Please," Jaina started, voice hoarse from misuse. "I don't know who you are, but there has been a terrible mistake. If you can help me get word to my family you will be well compensated."

The figure slowly lowered her hood, revealing long blonde hair and a malicious smirk.

"On the contrary, Jaina Solo. The only mistake was you trying to escape Lord Zekk in the first place. Thinking you were safe in the Unknown Regions," Serena said smoothly. "And unfortunately for you, there are not enough credits in the galaxy to buy your freedom. To escape from here."

Jaina glared at the other woman, remembering the last time she had seen her, throwing herself at Jag. Just thinking about it made Jaina want to scratch her big blue eyes out. But she needed to find a way out of here, needed information.

And currently, Serena was her only available source.

"And where exactly is here?" Jaina questioned sharply.

"In the heart of the Empire itself," Serena answered breezily. "Where your rebel family will never be able to get to you. Well, not until it's too late."

"So we're on Coruscant," Jaina murmured to herself.

"In a well-guarded wing of the Imperial Palace," Serena said pointedly. "So don't get any ideas. Even if you made it out this door, you wouldn't get very far."

"And why are you here, exactly?" Jaina questioned testily.

"I'm here to prepare you for Lord Zekk," Serena replied with an evil smile, throwing the dress she held at Jaina. "He wanted to make sure you were presentable to see him."

"I'm good, thanks," Jaina spat, letting the offensive material fall to the ground. It was mostly straps and lace, looked more like lingerie than a dress.

"Suit yourself," Serena said with a shrug. "I doubt he intended for you to wear it for too long anyway. He is really looking forward to claiming what's his."

Noticing the other woman's relish, Jaina's eyes narrowed, "And what are you looking forward to, a show or something? Is that why you look so thrilled at the prospect? I guess you're even more twisted than I thought."

"Oh no, I don't really care what happens to you," Serena answered with a smile. "You're just collateral damage, so I can finally claim what's mine."

Realization dawned on Jaina and she laughed condescendingly, "And what would that be? Jag? If you think he would ever go for a harpy like you, you're seriously blaster-brained."

Serena glared at Jaina, "He won't have a choice. And with you out of the way, he'll soon forget all about that little dalliance you two had in Chiss space. Realize I'm a much more suitable partner."

"And what makes you think that?" Jaina asked mockingly. "I'm a Princess, you're nothing more than Zekk's little errand girl."

"Now, now ladies," a sinister voice called from the door, causing both women to jump and look up in surprise.

They had both been so focused on each other they hadn't even noticed the door open. Jaina felt her blood run cold as the big dark-haired man stepped further into the room.

"While I appreciate you two fighting over me, there will be room for both of you in my life," Zekk leered at the two women, "And my bed."

Serena smiled at him serenely and Jaina just scoffed, determined not to show her fear to this monster.

"You forfeited any chance of that when you murdered my brother," Jaina spat, then turned to Serena. "Though I'm not surprised you're willing to sell your body to get what you want. You truly are nothing better than a whore."

Serena turned angrily to Jaina, her face a mask of fury, but Zekk grabbed her arm and pulled her back roughly.

"Control yourself," Zekk ordered, then turned to Jaina with a lazy smile. "I take it you remember me, then?"

Jaina's eyes blazed with hatred.

"Alderaan never forgets."

Zekk moved further into the room, ignoring Serena, his attention set firmly on the fiery Jaina Solo. His face brightened in excitement, glad that she still had fight in her. He was looking forward to breaking her into her new role.

"Yet your parents conveniently forgot our engagement when they smuggled you out of the Empire," Zekk answered, now standing toe to toe with her. He grabbed her hair harshly, yanking it back so she was forced to look up at him. "I do not appreciate being made to look like a fool."

"You don't need any help in that department," Jaina shot back, struggling to break free of his grasp but unable to overcome his greater strength.

Zekk moved with lightning speed, grabbing both of her wrists in one hand, holding them immobile above her head. He used his body weight to push her against the wall and leaned in to kiss her roughly. Jaina bit down on his lip hard and he pulled back in surprise.

Touching his lip, he pulled his fingers away, staring at the blood she had drawn. Then he struck her, once across the cheek, causing a matching dribble of blood to ooze from her own bottom lip.

"I suggest you behave yourself," Zekk said evenly. "I promise, this will be much worse for you if you don't."

"I'm not afraid of you," Jaina answered boldly.

"You should be," Zekk said with a malicious smile, not looking away from his newest prey. "Serena, leave us. I will call for you if I have need of you later."

Zekk waited until Serena scurried from the room, the door slamming behind her.

"Now, where were we?" Zekk said as he pulled the zipper of her flight suit down. "It's a shame I can't show you off at the feast tonight. But then, I do get to have you all to myself."

Jaina tried to pull away, and he let her go a few steps, before lunging forward and grabbing her by the hair to pull her back. He kissed her again on the mouth as he held her firmly to him, his free hand shoving her flight suit aside. He leered at her as he pushed her tunic up, roughly grabbing her breast as his mouth bruised hers.

"I have spoken with the Emperor," Zekk said as his hand moved to tug the flight suit further down over her hips, allowing it to fall to her ankles. Jaina desperately tried to move her hands to grab the flight suit and cover herself but Zekk once again held both of her wrists in an iron grip.

His hand moved down, over her stomach to brush her inner thigh, his fingers groping upward. Jaina struggled, her legs flailing as she tried to bring her knee up and slam it into his groin. Zekk expected her to fight back, however, and was ready for it. He grabbed her knee, causing her to lose her balance and trip over the flight suit that was now pooled at her feet. She fell heavily, winded, and Zekk stood over her his face dark with menace.

"My uncle has given his blessing and you are mine to do with as I please," Zekk continued as he started removing his own uniform, his intentions clear.

Pulling Jaina up from the floor, he pushed her roughly onto the bed. Kneeling astride her, he pushed her legs apart, ripping away the remaining cloth that covered her.

"And soon you will be my wife, belong to me in all ways," Zekk said triumphantly.

When Jaina had imagined this moment she had intended to fight, but now that it was happening she started to realize it was a helpless cause. He was so much bigger, so much stronger than her, she didn't stand a chance of winning.

And besides, wasn't that what he wanted? For her to scream and fight back so he could beat her into submission? But there was one way she could still hurt him, wound his arrogant pride.

"That's not possible," Jaina said between chattering teeth as he started to thrust into her, hips moving sharply.

"Because I killed your brother?" Zekk asked with a scoff. "I already told you, the Emperor-"

"No," Jaina interrupted. "Because I'm already married."

Zekk froze, his hands on her hips tightening painfully. Then he leaned closer, his face turning red with rage.

"You're lying," Zekk hissed.

"I married Jagged Fel months ago," Jaina continued mockingly. "If I belong to any man it's him, not you. No matter what you do to me."

Zekk's hands moved to Jaina's throat, the movements of his hips becoming more violent. Jaina felt her panic peak as her lungs fought desperately for air. She tried to disconnect her mind from the brutal abuse as he defiled her and at some point, started to consider just giving up completely. Death would be a blessed release.

And then he was gone and Jaina fell back against the bed gasping as she drew in deep breaths.

Zekk glared at her from the center of the room as he hastily got dressed.

"You can't belong to a dead man," he snarled over his shoulder as he walked towards the door. "I'll be back once I've made you a widow. And then you will be mine."

Jaina watched silently as Zekk exited the room, before leaning over to empty her stomach until she tasted bile. The bitterness was less repulsive than the memory of his mouth on hers.

She felt tears stream down her face, her body shaking violently as it reacted to the vicious violation she had just experienced.

She could only be thankful that Zekk's parting words were just empty threats. That Jag was deep in the Outer Rim surrounded by his men, safe from Zekk's jealous fury.