A/N: All day I've been finishing this chapter now that school has died down for a bit. There might be spelling errors, missing words, and grammar mistakes but, I must admit I really like this chapter. It brings everything back into perspective, moves the plot, and still has some raunchy bits. ;)x Let me know your thoughts! Thank you for hangin' in there!
Chapter 24: I'm Sorry
Diminutive waves tumbled against the hull of the submarine; the Senator counting each one in the enduring silence. Eyeing Eryx subtly, she waited for him to disengage the plug door – however he kept the vehicle in reverse – idling as if prepared to jettison at any moment. Perhaps his potential underlying concern had justification as she gazed at the number of troopers lining the dock. All she saw was white, blasters anchored in every hand. A swallow pushed down her throat as she noticed the sea of soldier's part for a shadow that glided towards the submarine. With a click, the plug door vanished, Eryx giving her one final warning glance.
There were multiple scenarios playing out in her head of how the meeting with Palpatine was destined to go - none of them were pretty. The first was perhaps he'd question her, ask all that she knew about the Rebellion. If that were the case, she'd have no other choice but to answer- then he'd have her tortured or even killed. Padmé shook her head, if he had wanted her dead, she already would be. There was no doubt Palpatine knew of her involvement with the Rebellion, something irked her that the second Vader had discovered the fact – Palpatine probably knew as well. Vader may have misappropriated his belief that she would be safe in his care. Hearing the propellers wind down, she stepped from the bongo knowing that the conversation that was destined was a powerplay. As her eyes fell upon Vader's cowl, she knew Palpatine's plan was to demonstrate his power over them both.
On the dock, Vader was by her side in an instant, gracefully placing the pristine white cloak over her shoulders, obviously hiding her scandalous dress from the previous night. Nestled under the security of her cloak, she knew whatever safety she felt was fleeting. Yet, she held onto it for the moment. Hiding her head, she counted stones as Vader escorted her towards the palace. That was, until daylight caught her eye. With her attention returning to the capital, the sun had just broken over the city, luminating a sight that made her knees weak. Her heart fell to the deepest cavern in her chest. A banner, decorated with the Imperial insignia whipped against the Royal Palace, tarnishing her world's democracy. "What have you done?" She breathed in a whisper, her eyes flashing towards Vader. His cowl didn't even notch in her direction, his reaction amassing her pain, anger, and regret that felt like knives from icy water.
Once inside the palace stowed away in a private chamber, Vader's hands gripped her shoulders. "Padmé," Vader intoned, his voice emotionless. She didn't want to look at him, how could she? He'd left during the night to lead troopers into the city.
"You left last night to capture the city?" she whispered, the turmoil in her chest felt as if her heart fractured from the truth.
Vader shook his head, gripping her arms, "That's not important right now-"
"Not important?" she whimpered, "How could you even say that!" She cried, iridescent tears finally tumbling.
"Padmé!" Vader pleaded, shoving her into the wall, she could only stare up into his apprehensive golden gaze – suddenly finding her mind void of any words. "You need to listen to me," he whispered, his grip tightening on her upper arms. The slight sound of droplets caught the woman's ears – her eyes flashing to the floor.
"You're bleeding," she mumbled, until her breath caught in her throat – he smelled charred... His robes, trousers drenched in blood.
"Listen to me!" He roared, shaking her harshly. Fear shred down her spine but, it was not in reaction to his anger – it was to what Sidious had done to him. "Padmé," he breathed, his leather hand reaching her chin to tip it upwards. "Whatever he asks you – tell him the truth," he ordered, his golden eyes locking with her own. "Lock away what I have told you in the past." She couldn't understand what he was doing, though her mind felt like mush – as if Vader were reconstructing it to keep information hidden. Nauseousness churned her belly as his words became more of a poisonous mantra in her mind – it was all she could think about, following his orders. "Do you understand?"
Slowly nodding she replied weakly with a quiet, 'Yes.'
"Good," he nodded, his thumb brushing the tears from her cheek. A knock on the door jolted the Senator, Vader backed away just as the barrier slid open revealing four of Palpatine's royal guard. "Your presence is not needed here," Vader's deep voice growled, his cowl notching towards them ever so slightly. None of them spoke, however they did back away – flanking the door. "Come," he directed her, head gesturing towards the door.
Goosebumps rose across the Senator's skin as a deep chill seemed to rush through the hall as they made their way towards the throne room. Apprehension swarmed her; how much could have changed in one night?
Upon approach, the Emperor's Royal guards flanking the throne room hauled open the only hinged doors left in the palace. The sight beyond the barriers once again made her breath hitch. Palpatine was seated proud in the Queen's throne. It was a desecration for a man to sit on upon the throne. Beyond that fact, she noticed Palpatine's servants were busy sponging up blood from new splinters throughout the floor. She couldn't help by eye Vader then, Palpatine must have tortured him. With a blank mind, she curtsied, holding it for a moment before she rose – shoulders back, chin held high. The sound of her breathing was the only noise filling her ears, the soft whispers of breath exhaling from her nose as she remained still – frozen. That was until he spoke, a slithering feeling crawled across her skin.
"It seems you have become closer with my apprentice than I had anticipated over this past month, Senator," the emperor's gravelly voice filled her ears. The wrinkles and scars across the emperor's pale skin had receded yet he never looked more deranged. No part of a man remained, only a demented monster.
"I'm surprised you're not ecstatic," Padmé replied cordially, eyes swarming with a cloak of confidence. "Isn't that what you wanted?" From the corner of her eye, she saw Vader shift, his arms tightening over his chest. She knew with anyone else he'd be in her mind demanding her to say something different – but this was his master, no doubt he'd hear. Self-preservation urged her to watch her step with where the conversation would lead, yet she found herself wanting to test her own power, her safety the least of concern.
The emperor notched his head, no doubt hearing her internal conflict. "Unfortunately, your thoughts are clear to me," 'Padmé,' discomfort washed across her body like little needles of razor-wire as she heard her name - his voice buried deep within her mind. A swallow pushed down her throat, she couldn't even pretend and hide how much it bothered her that his voice was in her mind. The Senator didn't notice but even Vader's hands had balled into fists from the discomfort. "What you need to remember that everything in this galaxy is mine," the Emperor snarled aloud, rising from the Naboo throne. Unconsciously, Padmé nodded in agreement watching the Palpatine draw closer to her step-by-step. That's when gnarly nails gently scraped along her cheek before grabbing her jaw. "That includes you, my dear," he sneered, teeth inches from her lips.
It took every ounce of determination for her to not glance towards Vader. She forced her eyes to send daggers into the emperor's eyes. "For now," she whispered back, "But does any of this even matter?" Her thoughts lingering on the Rebellion.
A toothy twisted smile pulled at the old man's expression, "Your subconscious screams for your rebellion – but where are they to save you?"
"It's funny, but you fail to realize something I learned a long time ago – it's that you're not the main character in everyone's story," she rebutted quietly, calmly. A chuckle left Palpatine's lips, then searing pain scorched across the woman's cheek as she crumbled to the floor. Somehow, Padmé managed to control her reaction – only releasing a small gasp as her fingertips reached her busted lip. Finally, she glanced to Vader – the poor excuse of a man hadn't moved an inch. A smirk pulled at her lips, "Do yourself a favor and kill me," she taunted, her attention returning to Palpatine.
"That would be kindness, Senator," he chuckled, rolling the rings around his fingers. "Now, leave me," Palpatine suddenly announced, waving his hand and in an instant, she found herself being yanked off the floor by Vader's metal grip.
"You're weak," she sniped to the man escorting her. In a heartbeat, Vader had her against the throne room wall – forearm taut under her jaw, clamping down her throat. A choke gurgled from her mouth, eyes wide with fear.
"Silence," his demand was ice - sharp as a razorblade. Whatever modicum of composure she had remaining shredded, fear encompassing every cell in her body. He sounded like a different person, completely numb yet livid. She hated to admit it, but he was the scariest person she'd ever met, affectionate one moment only to become a monster the next. "Not another word," he snarled, pressure tightening. Feeling herself shrink, Padmé shuttered a nod, eyelids falling closed. "Look at me," he snarled the order, jostling her eyes open. Terror splintered across her skin staring into the void of his reaper cowl. "You have forgotten your place," he seethed, "Time for you to remember." In a matter of a moment, she was ripped from the wall – Vader's hand clamped around the back of her neck shoving her down the hall.
When they reached the catacombs beneath the palace, Padmé's heart was hammering. She couldn't even find it within herself to plea with Vader, try to calm him down. The blood seeping from his leg was enough for her to understand a part of this was to demonstrate his loyalty to the Emperor. He'd been reprimanded for her transgressions… she supposed it was her turn. Once they rounded the final tunnel, her eyes fell upon four statues of sickly red armor - Palpatine's royal guard. "Vader-" the woman swallowed; her voice hushed.
"Quiet," He hissed, the Sith's rough touch felt toxic. An unnerving feeling coursed through her veins as they approached the ancient cell. With every fiber of her being she held the urge to vomit at the sight beyond the cage.
"Mon?" The woman breathed as Vader shoved the Naboo senator down on her knees. The once pristine senator of Chandrila was hanging lifelessly; skin removed from the bottoms of her feet, countless needle marks and digits missing. The old, damp room reeked of metal and urine. Without even a second thought, Padmé bolted up to flee only to be snatched, twisted, and forced to witness the sight of her friend who was now lifeless, beaten, and distorted.
"W-Why? Why are you doing this?" the cry left Padmé's lips as she fell back into Vader's grasp – his iron grip on her upper arms. Vader slightly shifted, the guards leaving their post and once the footsteps were too far for normal ears to hear – she finally heard his answer.
"Even though this will never happen to you. There are other ways of torture angel," he malevolently intoned, "control your mouth and you will never have to witness a sight like this again," his cowl brushing against the brim of her cheek as his thumb traced her jaw. The way in which he decided to display his power made the hairs on the back of her neck stand as she felt his erection digging into her lower back. Her mouth went dry as she heard him inhale deeply into her hair.
"Monster," the woman whispered in disgust as she forced down a gag.
A quiet chuckle left the man behind her, "Yet we share the same bed."
Padmé shook her head, tears welling in her eyes at the thought of everything they'd done. "You'll never touch me that way again," she snapped, suddenly his hand was clasped around her neck – tight enough for her to feel the warning.
"Don't make promises you can't keep, you'll forgive me – in time," he hummed as his other hand sank down the front of her dress. The pure disgust she felt in that moment was like no other. She couldn't understand what had happened to him, he wasn't the same man she'd witnessed on Vandor.
"You'll twist my mind to forgive you," she murmured, almost to herself as she felt his hand bunch up the fabric of her dress to slip beneath the fabric.
"No, I'll break your mind," he threatened, his hand slipping into her undergarments.
"Let me go, please," she begged silently, tears streaming down her cheeks. His movements froze, she heard his breath accelerate for a moment before his hand slipped out from beneath her dress. Something had triggered him to retreat; she never thought he'd listen in his current state of mind.
"I never wanted you to see this," he revealed, his hand resting on her hipbone. "You left me no choice. The Emperor cannot know…" his voice was quiet, vulnerable as his aura shifted. "You cannot be a weakness, I thought I made that clear to you."
Padmé broke away from him, not able to stand the sight before her a moment longer. "I-I need to leave this place," she breathed, trying to keep herself from hyperventilating. Daring to look at him, she saw his golden eyes – how sad they were. He nodded once about to rest his hand on the small of her back. "I can walk myself out," she bit, inching away from him.
"Padmé," he swallowed as she began to walk away.
"I find it ironic how I have more trust in your inquisitors than yourself," the cynical nature dripping in her voice was no doubt needles to Vader's ears, "I don't know who you are – what you are… What is truth or a ploy. I feel sorry for you," she admitted turning towards him one last time, "Because I don't think you know either."
Vader could only watch in stillness as the Senator left the catacombs, the soft patter of her heels disappearing, leaving him alone in the dismal place. Jaw taught; rage etched across his skin, down his vertebrae. Within a matter of moments, the ominous glow of his lightsaber filled the chamber slicing into stone as a roar ripped from his lungs. "Fuck!" The curse left his mouth venomously, saber incinerating anything around him. Livid, his thoughts were rampant – his mind deranged. If anyone dared to approach him in that moment, there would be nothing left of them. Smoke and embers churned as did his thoughts. Teeth gritting, he found himself regretting his reaction to her fear and for leaving her with Eryx. He kept making too many mistakes, ones that would render him too weak to put his final plans into motion. The decision was clear in his mind, after the gala he needed to find Exegol. With a shake of his head, his teeth clamped, he'd tried time and time again to locate it without a wayfinder. Even after years of research, countless texts read… He'd not found a single clue as to where the second could be located. Vader knew of the one in Sidious' possession, yet it was up to the apprentice to find the second.
The pitter-patter of water and the squeals of rats finally broke through the pounding rage in his ears. Glancing down the corridor, Vader could sense the presence of his inquisitors waiting for him, absent of emotion as ever. All but one, he noticed. Eryx was apprehensive though from the thickness of his barriers Vader could tell he was trying to mask it. Teeth grinding, Vader felt anger boil beneath his skin once again thinking about the Senator's words. From the forefront of her thoughts, he knew she meant to hurt him with those words. Begrudgingly, they did impact him. Only not in the form she was striving for, in Vader's eyes it drove a wrench between him and his most trusted ally. Childish, he scolded knowing the inquisitor's loyalty had not shifted. Harnessing the rage that was still waging inside his body, he ushered the power into the Force around him – numbing his injuries with the understand he still had business to attend to.
When the simmering heat dissipated, the damp, cold air around him cooled his clammy skin. Little did he know that he was drenched in sweat and blood, skin pale as parchment, eyes sunken, golden eyes sulfur. If he dared to look at himself in a mirror, he'd realize that his features seemed years older than his real age. The life-source draining into the Force at his attempt to shield the weakness from his wounds. Even though the Force contained the power to numb pain and tire, that did not prevent the strain on his mortal body. He knew after the gala, before his pursuit of Exegol he would need to rest for a time – recapture what strength he'd conducted into the Force. When he began his way back towards the surface, he could hardly feel the lower half of his body. Too much blood had drained, his breathes were shallow, weak, he'd become no more than flesh with the sole purpose of filling his directive: to annihilate the Rebellion. Turning the corner, he watched the inquisitors snap to attention – immediately kneeling before the spiral staircase that would take him to the surface.
"Rise," Vader said lowly, folding his hands behind his back. It was infinitesimal but he noticed his men's faces shift a fraction – the emotion was a small amount of disbelief. His eyes fell upon each one of them before turning towards Aker,"You are to leave for the Almas system. Search the wreckage of any rebel ships, find anything we can use to locate their base."
"Understood my Lord. Yet, scans have already been performed, the rebels scuttled everything before impact."
"I want you to search again, spend five days." Vader demanded; Aker nodded, securing his helmet before leaving. "Sobek, Eryx, you are to leave for the Garos system and find the good Doctor…" Vader sneered, his eyes narrowing a fraction. "It seems she lost her way returning to Imperial Center. Find out who she has been in contact with… we know her allegiance goes both ways."
"Yes, Lord Vader," Sobek responded immediately.
Vader's eyes fell on Eryx, "Yes, my Lord," he faltered.
"Is there a problem?" The Sith's tone was void and lifeless. The threat behind the numbness was clear, death would follow if there were to be protest.
"No," Eryx assured, taking a step back. With the air around the Sith Lord ice. He might have looked weakened, but his violent nature was at its peak– there would be no mercy for anyone who questioned his orders. Both Eryx and Sobek trekked towards the stairwell, quickly departing just as Aker had.
"Njord you are to return to Imperial Center with me after the gala," Vader informed him, "Until then, return to the Emperor." Njord's expression became perplexed a moment, it was almost indiscernible. "Is that going to be an issue?" The young lord seethed.
"I would prefer to remain under your command, my Lord," Njord explained carefully, hesitantly. If he hadn't controlled himself, Vader would have inched back – not fully prepared for the inquisitor's desire to stay under his authority.
"Very well," Vader agreed, making his way past Njord and towards the stairs. Climbing the flight was much more difficult than when he'd come down them. It was like scaling a mountain, his legs struggling with every step. He needed rest and a bacta tank.
"Lord Vader," Njord's voice broke him from thought, stopping him before in the dense shrubbery of the royal gardens that hid the entrance to the crypt. "The Senator is she alright?" He wondered, exceedingly cautious.
Vader's eyes narrowed, not daring to turn towards him, "Why does her wellbeing concern you?" His voice was honest.
The inquisitor lurched back an inch, his brown eyes adverting themselves before returning to Vader's stature. "If her wellbeing is something you must manage, we figured it is best if we knew as well-"
"Unless explicitly told - her wellbeing is none of your concern." Vader retorted harshly, wrath etching the tips of his shoulders. That is my burden to bear, he admitted to himself as he found himself walking towards the palace and back to his chambers.
Finally reaching his quarters, he found the Senator asleep in her own tears buried in the comforter not even bothering to remove her dress. Vader's neck rolled, the vertebra clicking – eyes darkening. He hadn't even noticed the soft smile that formed across his features as he stared at her for a moment because when the door slammed and locked behind him, his entire vision swept into the void.
An indistinguishable name fell from her own lips, muffled, muted. As if plunged by a dagger, the pain from trying to recollect the name tore through her mind. She could only watch the moving picture unfold, the mirror of herself in complete bliss, purely devoted. Padmé could only speculate why she was seeing this dream – again. It had been in her subconscious before… one day out of every week since she arrived at Vader's establishments. Sitting beyond the realm of her own dream, she tried to comprehend if what she was seeing was a dream at all. The plains of Naboo filled her vision, the breeze cool and pure as she witnessed her mirror and a man cuddled in the tall grass. The man resembling the Sith wasn't built for brute strength and muscle mass like Vader. He was toned for agility, stamina, less bulky and minimal scarring. Her attention fell away from his physique as the most genuine and pure smile crossed his visage - hopelessly in love for her mirror image. Even though she'd seen the dream time and time again, despite her best efforts, Padmé's heart skipped and succumbed to jealously. Her subconscious sighed, 'The thought of never knowing if he will ever truly love me, ails me.' Suddenly time stopped; the alternative perspective froze. A gasp fell from her lips, the warmth – 'this feeling has never come to me before.' Padmé's heart stammered as the man within the dream glanced towards her.
'I've always loved you,' he admitted, a small yet charismatic smile tugging at his lips. Comfort poured into her body from his words as he stood from his place in the grass, the entire world around them, even her mirror dissipating in the breeze.
It was only the two of them left in the grassland void, 'You can see me?' Padmé whispered, voice weak. She didn't understand how? She had communicated in the past…, tried time and time again to speak. Yet, the reel kept playing on repeat – never moving forward. It had become worse than any nightmare she could imagine… Witnessing happiness that she herself would never behold.
'I can see you,' he nodded, his azure eyes connecting with hers. With a frown she glanced to either plane, the horizon went on forever – no or start or stopping point. She wondered for a time if he could hear her thoughts and yet when he stepped forward to regain her attention she realized, he couldn't.
Padmé glanced around, taking a step back, 'What is this place?' She finally asked, wondering what had changed since the other times she'd had the exact dream.
'Your mind,' he smiled, 'and my own.' The small, confused notch of her head made the man chuckle, 'The bond he created, allows us to be here.'
'Vader,' Padmé unconsciously murmured, eliciting a slight frown from the man only a few steps beyond herself.
'His injuries over the past month haven't been as insignificant as he claims…Which is why he's not aware we're here.'
'You speak as though you're two different people,' Padmé frowned, her arms folding across her chest.
With a forlorn smile he shook his head, 'I suppose we are the same person, yet my desires have been suffocated for years.'
'The grip that the darkness has on your soul runs deep,' her voice was delicate, foreboding sadness radiating from her words. 'But I've seen the good in you…'
'Nothing I have done in your reality has been good, Padmé. I'm sorry,' he admitted, adam's apple bobbing.
Tears welled in her eyes as she thought to everything Vader had done - the manipulation, the torture, the lack of even a modicum of empathy at times. 'Everything Vader has done to me-'
'What I am outside of your dreams can never come to love you Padmé.' Holding back tears, she nodded breaking away from his eyes for the first time. 'His megalomania, anger, and greed are far too great to care for love.'
'I suppose there is nothing I can do,' she despondently smiled, 'I'm powerless…'
'That's not what I said,' he sighed taking a step closer, when she felt a warm hand touch her own it was as if she'd been shocked by a warm electrical current. It was the same sensation she felt whenever Vader would touch her gently - yet more powerful than she could ever fathom. 'Your presence is stronger than you think…' he assured her, Padmé sought his eyes once again tears welled in his own. 'As long as you can reach me here… there will always be hope.'
A sharp shove dragged her from slumber, a Sith's frightening sulfur eyes replacing the azure. A gasp caught in Padmé's throat, "Vader…"
"What did you see," the Sith snarled, rummaging around in her mind, strain apparent on his features as he tried to find whatever he wanted. She couldn't understand what had happened, how could he have known? A strangled gasp belted from her throat as he dug too deep.
"Stop!" she cried trying to drag herself away from him, yet she found herself slammed down onto the bed by invisible hands - holding her with an unbreakable grip. Vader's expression became one of complete insanity as he straddled her quickly - hands clasping either side of her skull. Terror pulsated through her body as she could hardly recognize him anymore, he was completely blind with rage. His eyes were sunken, skin parchment, hair dull and slick with sweat. She couldn't understand what had transpired since the last time they spoke, but he looked ghostly, paranoid. Padmé couldn't help the small part of her that worried for him as her own life remained at risk.
"Tell me what you saw!" He roared, eyes morphing into wild poppy crimson. Rapidly, she attempted to collect her thoughts but not before she was shoved into the headboard. The base of her skull cracked against metal, warping, and spinning her vision. She couldn't tell how long it had taken, but at some point, the hands on either side of her head were gone. Her disoriented sight could only convey Vader pulling at his own hair - tugging at his locks so violently that she was positive she'd seen hair woven between his knuckles.
"Vader please," she tried to reason, "Please we can talk about this!" It was then she realized his concern, he couldn't find what he was looking for – he couldn't see what happened in her dream.
"Lies," he spewed propelling himself off the bed. "Why?" Vader hissed, pacing back and forth – crimson and onyx eyes wide with rage. Her mind flashed to a similar set – the leviathan from Vandor. The unhinged nature had her dazed mind urging her to flee, he was manic. Inconsolably frenzied with paranoia. Vader moved at inhuman speed, gripping her neck in his durasteel hand. "You are mine!" He bellowed, his grip tightening. "No one else's," he hissed, dragging her from the bed only to pin her body to the wall.
"Please," Padmé choked the plea her hand racing to his fingers indenting her throat as her toes brushed against the carpeting. Thoughts were bouncing around in her mind like a pinball as she tried to conjure a way to calm him down. She'd heard what he'd said in her dream, Vader's injuries were greater than he'd lead on, his believed weakness was driving his insanity. "Vader, I only care for you," she rasped, "Please, forgive me," she begged feeling her empty lungs burn. Not only was her vision blurry from her head injury but the lack of oxygen was muddling her mind. She would do anything, say anything-
"Your lies will not save you," he seethed, his body slamming into her with intense rage, fingers digging even more violently into her skin.
"Please," Padmé sobbed with every last ounce of strength, "I know you don't want to kill me- please stop!" she desperately rasped with the last bit of air remaining.
"You prefer someone else," he intoned comatose, mercilessly crunching the bones in her neck towards their breaking point.
'No,' she mouthed, her nails on the verge of breaking as she clawed at his hand. "Only you," she squeaked, knowing that deep in her heart she knew it to be true. Even if she lived never lived past that moment – she wouldn't regret anything. He was a weapon made of skin that would perhaps, one day, force her into the grave, but she still always craved him… For the first time, she was thankful he'd heard her thoughts because in a matter of a moment, his lips crashed against hers, his grip weakening. Gulping in air, she gasped whatever she could in the second before his lips dominated her own again. Padmé wasn't prepared for his sudden desperate affection, yet her lungs welcomed the little bit of air she captured.
Still reeling from his assault, she could only wheeze in air frantically. Padmé could hardly react when he pulled away to rip the corset from her body, shredding every bit of clothing till she stood bare. Surely leaving bruises, Vader grabbed her ribcage shoving her back into the wall. It took every bit of strength she had to reach her arms up to rake her fingers through his sweat drenched hair. With his mouth devouring her own, his crushing weight was against every inch of her body, the chill of his lightsaber dangling against her hipbone. It was a blur as he hoisted her against the wall – his erection slamming into with such vigor that a screech belted from her chest. Panting like a rabid wolf, Vader's lips lingered over her own as he took her relentlessly – not waiting a second for her to adapt. Mind spinning, Padmé clutched the fabric around his arms feeling his iron grip knead the skin just below her rear. Her head rocked against the wall lost in pleasure when his ghostly touch coaxed her sensitive numb. Neck fully exposed, Vader didn't hesitate to leave painful lovemarks against her skin.
She'd never felt such intense pleasure, perhaps it was because she could barely see straight, but it didn't matter. Fuck… was the only word that crossed her thoughts as pleasure drowned everything. The heat between them was like no other as sweat condensed across her forehead, her cries becoming more desperate. When her crest of pleasure finally peaked, a hand clasped around her throat – suffocating the erotic cry. Vision tunneling, her eyes rolled back as her head hit the wall. Her heart thundered violently in her ears, drowning out Vader's virile moan. Once the high began to fade, Vader's grip loosened dragging down to her breast, kneading the globe while roughly leaving one last mark of his teeth on her bruised neck.
As if a feather in his grip, he gently scooped her in his arms – delicately stowing her back in the silk sheets. Discombobulated, Padmé didn't hesitate to fall onto the pillow. Exhaustion enveloping her in as the waning pleasure lured her to rest. Eyelids fluttered closed; sleep enveloped her – no dreams remaining.
Flute of champagne in hand, Padmé gently took a sip – only slightly wincing when the liquid trickled down her throat. Donned in a tight violet silk, lacy dress, the gowns neck was deceptively uncomfortable. Under normal circumstances, the fashion would be elegant and regal however, it was only required for her that night. Shrouding the deep black handprint and teeth marks from the night before, she needed the damn thing even though she'd prefer nothing touching the damaged flesh. If it weren't for her designer, she wouldn't have worn Vader's necklace as it felt too heavy around her strained neck.
Classical string music melodically rang through her ears while her eyes scanned the terrace. Every political and monetary elite was present – even without rehearsing she knew every being's name. Though, a frown tugged at her lips – not a single friendly face was in sight… After that fact crossed her mind, internally, she had signed off. Checking the chrono on the bell tower a few blocks away, a muted sigh escaped her lips, the night wasn't even a quarter of the way over.
"When does the Emperor plan on making the announcement," Padmé wondered glancing to Vader whom was standing beside her at the bar.
"An hour or less," he replied offhandedly, downing his entire glass of scotch.
"May I sit for a moment?" she wondered glancing toward him, knowing she'd need help reaching their table. Her legs had been shaky the entire day, skull throbbing. Vader nodded, resting his glass on the marble. When his hand snaked around her lower back, she fought the wince that dared to stir – every inch of her was bruised. Gently, Vader escorted her to their table, smoothly pulling out the seat before leaning down to help her sit. Finishing the rest of her champagne, a small, relieved sigh drifted from her nose as the pinching in her heels subsided.
"I can heal you Padmé," Vader whispered above her ear, the Senator rolled her eyes.
"I know how much it bothers you," she muttered, "You can just watch as I struggle."
"Don't be stubborn," he retorted, his grip on the back of her seat tightening. Not only were her neck, back, and arms littered in bruises, but the insides of her thighs were deep purple, if she even attempted to cross her legs – tears would begin to well.
"I'm not, I'm just tired of you using me as your punching bag," she sniped in a whisper, "You can't just heal me and erase your contrition."
"Y-You know that's not-" he began to argue, however she was too annoyed to hear his excuses.
"Don't," she snapped, a false smile tugging at her lips as a couple strolled by, respectfully bowing.
"Fine," he hissed just above a whisper, she only watched as his cloak billowed when he stormed away, rolling her eyes as he went towards the bar. Relief washed down her spine as she rested it against velvet. All she wanted to do was shut her eyes, however a familiar chime of laugher caught her ears – more regal than any other on the terrace. It can't be… she could have sworn her eyes had deceived her as she glanced back.
With all the strength in her legs she stood, twisting to see the familiar elegant features of an old friend. "Satine," she beamed, struggling to keep her voice from sounding hoarse, forcing her limbs to move.
Exquisite pale blue eyes connected with her own, "Padmé!" The woman beamed, heels clicking as she rushed towards the Senator. Padmé had never been so thankful for anything as her friend saved her the walk. Resisted the urge to comedically roll her eyes, the beautiful regal blond curtsied. Formalities were too much for the young woman, she'd always viewed the former Duchess as a close friend, even an older sister at times.
"What are you doing?" Padmé giggled shaking her head, "You're family," she laughed, eyes lighting up more than they had for an unfathomable length of time.
"Okay fine," she mused with an eye roll pulling her into a gentle hug. Padmé's voice caught in her throat from the crippling pain, forcing a smile even though collapsing may have been more comfortable. "I am so pleased to see you."
"It's been what… two years?" Padmé tried to recall.
"Yes, the last time we met was at the Galactic Ball on Imperial Center." She nodded, saving the Senator the mental strain.
Padmé nodded with a small laugh, "Of course, I remember it being quite the drag…" Once the social faction Satine had been conversing with wondered away, the blond gently grasped her hand.
"I hope you are doing well?" She wondered with a brilliant smile; however, her eyes shared a different story, they were anxiously concerned.
"Yes, my time has been occupied," Padmé tried to answer honestly. The former duchess nodded, her smile faltering just a fraction. The Senator wondered how much she knew… Padmé wished with every fiber of her being she could ask about- Padmé forced the thought away, not here, she implored herself glancing at Vader who'd moved to chatting with the Emperor.
"Well, this is a gorgeous dress, you must tell me your designer," she chimed, the pitch of her voice elevating slightly as she reached for the fabric of her collar. Padmé hardly had the time to react as the woman tugged at it slightly. Her pleasant visage fell, pleasantries dissipating as she no doubt witnessed the deep bruises. A minute gasp escaped the woman's lips, "Padmé…" Horror encompassed her features as she stepped closer.
"Satine, it's not-" the young woman began to falsely smile. Though the damage was done as Padmé noticed the tears well in her friend's eyes.
"H-he did that to you," she whispered, "I imagined… I'm so sorry."
Padmé felt herself sink into the depths of her heels, recognizing that even in her own heart she knew what Vader had done was unforgivable. Yet, she had forgiven him – she had no choice. Blinking back her own tears, she struggled to save face with a sanguine smile. "I'm okay," she assured, gently making sure the collar was back in place.
Satine nodded, blinking her own tears away as she straightened her composure. When her eyes fell to something behind Padmé's shoulder, the woman knew from the false excitement it was Vader. "My Lord," she curtsied deeply, bowing her head in what Padmé could only believe was to hide her distaste.
"Lady Kryze," Vader replied with a minuscule inflexion of his deep tone.
"I understand it hasn't been publicly announced, I still wanted to congratulate your union together," she bowed her head respectfully, flawlessly bestowing her best wishes. Before she even had time to respond, the Emperor's voice echoed through her ears – drawing everyone's attention to the rotunda. For the first time in her life, she was thankful for Palpatine's interruption – she didn't need to know if Vader would have responded.
"Welcome, my friends, to my wonderful home planet of Naboo! It has been too long since I have witnessed the beautiful countryside of this untarnished planet. The serine and exquisite beauty not only describes the terrain but also its people," the Emperor smiled, his ghastly teeth on display. "My journey to creating the immaculate galaxy we share now, started here with the help of many. Through my hardship, I found trust, empathy, and benevolence through the compassion that surrounded me. A true light within the dark, a marvel appeared and developed – a magnificent, legendary queen whose generosity, bravery, and kindness speared through the hardships of this world and reached the hearts of billions… Queen Amidala!" The Emperor took a pause, bowing his head slightly in acknowledgement, with all eyes forced on her – she had no choice but to curtsy, her legs quivering as she lowered.
Once the ovation died down, the Emperor didn't hesitate continuing, "Now that the galaxy has been at peace for years, there are those who threaten our tranquility. It is true that times have not been easy for our Empire, time and time again there are those threatening our peace. Nevertheless, these terrorist attacks have been foiled, squandered by our promise to bring order and prosperity to the galaxy! With our military might, the Supreme Commander of our Forces continues to protect us from harm. Too long has he shielded himself," Palpatine roared, "too long has he guarded us without recognition!" Padmé couldn't help but glance towards Vader as she contemplated where Palpatine's speech was headed. "My dear friend… liberate yourself from the shadows!"
When Vader's hands reached for his cowl, Padmé's heart skipped a beat as he unveiled himself. Gasps, squeals, and a thunderous applause rang through her ears, no doubt grooming the young Lord's ego. A blush touched her cheeks as if seeing him for the first time. Perhaps she was… she'd never seen him in the presence of the public. His dark blond locks were perfectly combed, jawline strong, eyes a warm honey color. He seemed healthy, young, vibrant even when donned in black. No one at the gala would ever know the turbulence of his true nature like she had experienced. When the Sith's gaze caught her own a slight smirk tugged at his cheeks, causing her eyes to fall away from his – the blush deepening on her cheeks. "What would be a better unity than to bring our most strong and beloved beacons of hope… together!" Palpatine resounded as the cheers grew louder, the elites rising from their seats.
Padmé struggled to gather her bearings as Vader stood before her, slowly falling to one knee with a bow of his head. When his leather hand reached for her left, she was astonished to see a stunning phrik ring in his human hand. The shimmering metal was embezzled with two diamonds and the same gem that hung around her neck in the center. Padmé's mind numbed the noise as he delicately slipped the ring onto her left ring finger. When he eased to his full height, she couldn't help but search his eyes as a pure small smile tugged at his features. Suddenly, his lips were on hers sealing what the future would bring.