III
A pair of serving droids removed the heavy cloak from their master's shoulders as they prepared him for his daily treatment. As their master lay back in the medical capsule, the droids moved quickly to remove their master's helmet and attached the various tubes to his suit. "That is all," their master commanded in a harsh rasping voice as the medical capsule entered the treatment chamber. Vader shut his eyes tight as he felt the familiar mist pumping through the chamber as it settled on his scarred, discolored skin. Forcing himself to relax, Vader concentrated his energy on conjuring the image of a beautiful maiden with long curling tresses running wild and free across a serene emerald meadow. Her tinkling laugh and blinding smile brought him peace as the treatment continued.
Once the medical capsule was released from the treatment chamber, Vader was pulled from his calming reverie. His droids returned to dress him in his robes and relay a message from the captain of the Death Star. "Captain Tarkin says work on the superweapon is awaiting your inspection," the droid announced straightening Vader's helmet. "I'll go at once," came the deep menacing reply. Vader pushed the droid aside and moved swiftly down the corridor to the bridge.
Tarkin immediately saluted his master as Lord Vader stalked toward the central command station. "The superweapon plans have been given to our engineers, sir. We are awaiting your order to initiate construction." Tarkin passed Vader a small handheld with the plans for the superweapon. "The emperor will be most pleased. Tell the engineers to begin work immediately. There can be no delay. I will make sure you have all the necessary supplies." Vader handed the plans back to Tarkin. "Very good, sir." Tarkin saluted the dark lord as he walked swiftly back to his chambers to update the Emperor on the weapon's progress.