Chapter 26 - A feast fit for a queen
Upon arriving at the grand banquet hall, Rey was instantly captivated by the breathtaking display laid out before her. The spread was nothing short of extraordinary, far surpassing the lavish feast at Varykino Villa. The table was more than three times the size, overflowing with a vibrant array of familiar favourites she had already tasted and intriguing new delicacies that caught her eye.
The enticing scent of braised shaak roast wafted through the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of freshly baked five-blossom bread. Rey felt a rush of excitement as she approached the table, her eyes widening in delight at the colourful assortment of dishes. Each platter was a masterpiece, presented with an artistry that made her eager to dig in.
Rey gracefully took her seat beside Kylo at one end of the grand dining table, which gleamed under the soft glow of ornate chandeliers. At the opposite end, the queen settled in with an air of regal authority. Around the table, soldiers and advisors started to fill the remaining places. JK slid into the chair to Rey's right, while Kylo occupied her left.
As the moments ticked by, people continued to gather, a gentle murmur of conversation rising in the air. Rey couldn't help but allow her thoughts to drift, reflecting on the astonishing journey her life had taken over the past few months. Once a mere survivor, scavenging for scraps to stay alive, she now reveled in the opulence of royalty, surrounded by a sumptuous feast laid out before her, a stark contrast to her former struggles.
"I thank you all for gathering here today," the queen announced warmly, her voice echoing through the grand hall. "The feast may now begin."
"Wait for the servers to present samples of the dishes before you." Kylo silently communicated to Rey, his gaze fixed on the bustling servers laden with platters.
Rey felt a surge of excitement but fought to remain composed, her fingers tapping nervously against her leg as she eagerly awaited her turn to savour the culinary delights.
After a few minutes had gone by, a vibrant array of sample dishes was elegantly arranged on a plate before her. As she took her first bite, an explosion of flavours danced on her palate, each taste transporting her further into a realm of culinary ecstasy. With every mouthful, she felt as if she were floating on a cloud of savoury delights, the textures and aromas swirling together to create a symphony for her senses.
Caught up in the moment, she couldn't help but moan softly and shift a little in her seat. Her feet tapped joyfully against the polished floor. Each new flavour brought forth gleeful gasps and a radiant smile that illuminated her face, her blissful expressions undisturbed by the refined atmosphere around her.
Kylo observed her silently, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he watched Rey's uncontainable joy unfold. Her infectious enthusiasm radiated warmth and light, casting a delightful aura over the gathering. He couldn't believe how lucky he was to have her by his side.
"I am delighted to hear that the feast meets your approval," the Naboo queen remarked, her voice calm and inviting.
"Thank you, your Highness," Rey replied, a hint of embarrassment in her eyes as she surveyed the lavish spread before her. "I've never had the opportunity to taste the delicacies of your planet before. Everything looks so exquisite and tastes devine."
The queen gracefully bowed her head, a warm smile spreading across her face as she turned her attention to Kylo. Their conversation unfolded with a sense of purpose, as they carefully navigated the complexities of the trade negotiations that lay ahead. They delved deeply into the intricacies of Naboo's plasma mining, examining everything from extraction costs to distribution logistics, ensuring each detail was meticulously addressed.
As the two leaders exchanged insights and strategies, Rey sat nearby, feeling increasingly overwhelmed. She struggled to keep up with the fast-paced dialogue, her understanding of the technical details faltering. Her responses were limited to simple nods and shakes of her head at the appropriate moments, as she tried to grasp the significance of what was being discussed. The weight of the negotiations hung in the air, making it clear that each decision would shape the future of their treaty.
She carefully observed Kylo as he displayed his adept negotiation skills. With a confident demeanor, he proposed sending additional soldiers to bolster the mining operations and improve security for distribution. The queen listened intently, her expression a mix of concern and contemplation. She had previously articulated her worries regarding the alarming frequency of targeted attacks on her shipments. These assaults led to significant losses at the hands of pirates and compromised her ability to negotiate effectively with other traders, putting her entire operation at risk.
The stakes were high, and she knew a strategic alliance with Kylo could be crucial for her survival in this difficult environment. In response to her concerns, Kylo took a moment to reassure her about the safety and security of the products. He emphasised that his highly trained soldiers and experienced officers would oversee all operations, ensuring that every item was handled with care. Furthermore, he outlined a series of strategic initiatives aimed at boosting profit turnover.
Understanding the importance of a fair partnership, he meticulously negotiated a profit-sharing percentage that he believed would be mutually beneficial. During the discussion, he presented a comprehensive deal that highlighted various aspects of the collaboration, showcasing his commitment to both sides' success. Kylo's efforts made Rey feel a sense of pride, realising that his actions not only benefited the First Order but also proved advantageous for Naboo.
As the meal went on, a palpable tension filled the air, mixing with the rich aromas wafting from the dining table. She watched intently as Kylo and the queen leaned over the polished surface, their pens poised above the meticulously prepared documents. With a swift, purposeful motion, they signed their names, sealing the agreement.
The queen gracefully gestured to a nearby waiter, who swiftly exited the room, only to be replaced by a tall man bearing an ornate tray. The tray shimmered in the light, adorned with intricately carved goblets that glinted in the light.
"I propose a toast to a successful negotiation," the queen declared, her voice resonating with warmth. "I invite you to sample our exquisite blossom wine."
As the rich aroma of the wine filled the air, Rey's gaze drifted toward the man approaching her. With each step, she felt a sense of recognition, as if she were rediscovering a familiar face in the elegantly decorated room.
With a subtle gesture, she caught JK's attention, prompting him to lean in closer, his brow furrowed in genuine concern. "Yes, my lady?" he inquired softly, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
Rey leaned in close, her breath barely audible, a sense of urgency in her tone. "Are you absolutely certain we're the only members of the Resistance here?" Her eyes narrowed as she scanned the shadows for any signs of eavesdroppers.
JK shifted uneasily, glancing around the dimly lit room before meeting her gaze. "That's what I was told," he replied softly, his brow furrowing with concern. Doubts hung in the air, heavy with uncertainty and danger.
Meanwhile, just out of earshot, Kylo focused intently, listening to their every word through the Force.
Rey's gaze flickered toward Kylo, a brief moment of hesitation crossing her face, but she quickly redirected her focus back to JK. "So, are there any other First Order spies embedded in the Resistance?" she inquired, her tone urgent as she shifted between JK and Kylo.
JK took a deep breath, his voice steady but tense. "Just us," he stated firmly; the conviction in his words reinforced their honesty.
The server walked over and carefully set the drinks down, first in front of Kylo and then in front of Rey. Finally, he turned his attention back to Rey. As she peered closely, she could discern his features with more clarity. She confirmed that he was indeed the individual who had performed the pre-flight checks on her ship before Poe and her went to intercept Kylo's shipment.
Their eyes locked in an intense gaze. The man gasped as he took in her appearance. But Rey was unfazed, her focus unwavering as she delved into his mind with a penetrating stare.
"If she is indeed Lady Ren," the man pondered, a shiver running down his spine, "then she must be a spy embedded within the Resistance, gathering secrets for the First Order."
Before any further words were spoken. Kylo, with a swift flick of his wrist, summoned the man into the air, his body floating helplessly before being violently hurled against a nearby wall. The impact echoed through the dimly lit room, drawing the attention of the nearby soldiers, who instinctively raised their weapons, their sights trained on the immobilised figure. The atmosphere was thick with tension, every breath laden with anticipation.
The queen's guards moved with precision, their weapons raised and poised, eyes fiercely locked on the menacing stormtroopers who surrounded them.
"What is the meaning of this?" The queen's authoritative voice sliced through the suffocating silence, demanding an explanation as her gaze swept across the room.
"He's a spy from the Resistance," Rey interjected. "I'm guessing he's here to target the Emperor," she added, her tone growling with determination as she stood ready to confront the unfolding crisis.
The queen raised her hand elegantly, signaling to a nearby advisor. They leaned in close, their voices little more than whispers as they exchanged words, creating an air of secrecy that Kylo and Rey could sense through the Force. With sincerity shining in her eyes, the queen addressed the room.
"I was completely unaware that he was a new employee," she declared, her voice steady and commanding. "I assure you, we have no involvement in any plot against you, nor do we have any ties to the Resistance."
Rey, attuned to the emotions swirling in the room, concentrated her thoughts and felt the undeniable truth woven into the queen's words.
Kylo was still seated and his gaze flicked to the ornate goblets before them. "I'm guessing these contain either a poison or a sedative," he remarked, a hint of suspicion in his tone. "Perhaps we should consider replacing them."
"Of course," the Queen replied, her voice steady as she gestured elegantly for the attendants to remove the suspicious drinks and replace them with fresh ones. The flickering candlelight cast shadows on the walls, highlighting the tension in the room. The man remained eerily suspended, caught in a moment that seemed to stretch on indefinitely. He was frozen in place, unable to speak and only able to move his eyes slightly.
With a hint of curiosity laced with concern, the queen turned her gaze to him and asked, "What will become of the man?"
"He will be executed," Kylo responded. "I don't condone any attempts on my life or my empress's," Kylo growled, his voice low and menacing, the intensity in his gaze piercing.
The queen nodded in understanding, her regal demeanor unshaken as she took in the scene. Kylo remained poised, his body relaxed yet alert, seamlessly maintaining a conversation while using the Force to keep the man hovering helplessly in the air nearby.
Rey sat back down as the server placed new drinks in front of them, the golden liquid shimmering in the light. She scanned her surroundings, tuning in to the intentions of those nearby. Rey could sense that the drinks were safe, free from any hidden threats.
With an air of elegance, the queen raised her ornate goblet. "Perhaps a toast to our new agreement," she suggested, her voice gentle yet authoritative, inviting both Kylo and Rey to join in.
Kylo and Rey lifted their goblets in unison, they mirrored the queen's graceful gesture. After a shared nod, they both took a sip, savouring the sweet, fragrant wine that danced upon their tongues. Lowering their goblets, the queen, draped in opulent robes that shimmered like a ruby jewel, turned her gaze toward them with renewed interest.
"Have you set a date for the empress revealing ceremony?" she inquired, her voice smooth and commanding, echoing softly in the grand hall.
Kylo, caught off guard, spluttered slightly, a surprised cough escaping him as he swallowed his drink.
"There are still many details that the Emperor and I have yet to discuss," Rey replied, her tone calm and confident, not missing a beat. Her eyes lingered on Kylo, seeking his silent support in this delicate conversation.
Kylo met her gaze, a playful smirk curling at the corners of his lips, yet he chose to remain silent for a moment, an enigmatic presence amidst the unfolding dialogue.
"Will it be a grand public spectacle or a more intimate gathering?" the queen inquired, her voice filled with curiosity as she regarded the two present.
Kylo cleared his throat, the weight of the moment settling on him. "Public," he replied.
He pulled his gaze away from Rey, feeling a mixture of pride and pressure. "My queen cannot be expected to assume the throne behind closed doors."
A bright smile spread across the queen's face, reflecting her understanding. "True. In that case, I humbly propose Naboo as a potential location. Our people would be deeply honoured to host such a significant event."
"Thank you for your generous offer. It shall be seriously considered," he replied, nodding respectfully, while the queen gave a graceful bow in return, showcasing the elegance of her royal stature.
Rey then leaned forward, her eyes bright with hope. "I propose a toast," she announced, her voice steady and clear. "To the future."
"The future," they echoed in perfect harmony, their voices blending as they raised their glasses and enjoyed their drinks once more.
Across the room, the man shifted uncomfortably, a low groan escaping his lips. His eyes flitted nervously from one face to another, searching for an escape. He felt the heavy weight of being pinned down, helpless, while the group reveled in their meal, laughing and chatting as if nothing else mattered.
Rey suddenly heard her voice in her mind say. "Kill him before he reveals your double identity," it said.
Rey inhaled sharply, her breath catching in her throat as a wave of surprise washed over her. The sudden sound drew Kylo's gaze, his intensity shifting to her.
Confusion flickered across Rey's mind as she silently questioned, "Why would I think that?"
At that exact moment, Kylo's thoughts intertwined with hers, a curious response echoing: "Think what?"
The unspoken connection charged the air between them, full of unasked questions.
"I just thought I should kill him before he reveals my double identity," Rey replied with concern.
"I didn't hear any thought like that from you," Kylo replied, his voice steady but curious. "It might have just been a fleeting idea that crossed your mind."
"Perhaps, but I don't want to feel that way again," Rey said, her brow furrowing with concern. "What do you think we should do now?"
"Let's put him in a Force sleep," Kylo suggested a hint of determination in his tone. "This is your opportunity to practice."
Rey lifted her hand slowly, her fingers outstretched towards the man etched on the wall. A shimmering energy pulsed from her fingertips as she delved into his mind, weaving through his thoughts with a determined focus. She could feel his willpower waning, and soon, her presence enveloped him like a warm cloak, pressing down heavily as an irresistible wave of drowsiness washed over him, drawing him toward the sweet embrace of sleep.
As he lay unconscious, Kylo released his grip, and the figure collapsed onto the floor, landing in a messy heap.
Rising elegantly from his seat, Kylo surveyed the room, and Rey followed suit, her movements graceful and deliberate. "I sincerely apologise, your Highness," he said, his voice steady but respectful. "However, my queen and I must take our leave. We truly appreciate your generous hospitality."
"Of course," the queen declared, rising gracefully from her seat.
The stormtroopers, clad in their stark white armor, efficiently secured the unconscious man, their metal hands gripping him tightly as they began dragging him towards the direction of Kylo's sleek shuttle.
Rey nodded appreciatively, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and resolve. "Thank you, your Highness."
With a sense of seriousness, Rey, Kylo, JK, and their soldiers bowed deeply to the queen, a gesture of respect that hung in the air. They then turned and began their march back through the palace toward the hanger containing their ships. The weight of silence enveloping them as they moved in unison.
In the stillness, Kylo and Rey shared a brief mental conversation, their thoughts intertwining like flickers of electricity, exchanging secrets that only they could perceive.
"Are you going to kill him?" Rey sadly asked.
"I'm sure Hux will handle a public execution due to his attempt on my life." Kylo replied gently.
"I expected as much," Rey said softly, her voice tinged with sadness as she looked down, the weight of the situation heavy on her shoulders.
"We can't afford to show any weakness right now, Rey. He knows your secret, and that puts you in grave danger," Kylo urged, his expression serious.
"I don't have to like it, but I understand," she replied, her fingers nervously tugging at the fabric of her dress, her mind racing with the implications of their predicament.
As she walked, Rey's gaze drifted, lost in thought, reflecting her inner turmoil.
Kylo reached out, grasping her hand gently, a silent promise of support in the midst of chaos.
"I'm sorry," he said, his voice filled with an earnest regret.
"Honestly, it's not your fault," Rey reassured him, her eyes meeting his with a mix of determination and frustration. "It's the Resistance that I'm truly upset with; they've forced our hand in this."
Kylo spoke aloud, breaking the tension with a commanding presence. "Would you like to come back to the Finalizer before you head back?"
"Yes, I would like that," Rey replied, her voice soft but resolute.
With a decisive nod, Kylo turned to JK. "Accompany the prisoner on the trooper transport, and we'll meet back on the Finalizer."
JK's gaze lingered on Rey, noticing the glimmer of sadness that filled her eyes. "Yes, my lord," he said, his voice steady as he masked his concern.
As they entered the hangar bay, the hum of machinery filled the air, echoing against the metal walls. JK gestured to the lined-up stormtroopers, instructing them to board the transport. With a disciplined formation, they followed his command, leaving Rey and Kylo alone in the dim light of the shuttle bay.
They stepped aboard Kylo's sleek shuttle, leaving the Naboo hangar behind as the ship soared into the vastness of space, the atmosphere fading away without a hitch.
"Throughout dinner, did you practice shutting off your mind to me?" Kylo asked, his gaze focused on the stars ahead as he piloted the vessel with effortless precision.
Rey turned her head, surprise flickering across her features. "No, why?" she replied, curiosity creeping into her tone.
"I couldn't hear your thoughts at certain moments," he admitted, a hint of intrigue colouring his voice. "It was rather peculiar, considering your inner musings can be quite distracting." Kylo smirked slightly, a glint of mischief in his eyes. He paused, glancing at her. "Perhaps it was the stress of the negotiations that threw me off," he mused, his brow slightly furrowing as he considered the weight of their recent discussions.
Rey nodded slowly, her mind drifting as she gazed out the window at the imposing silhouette of the Finalizer approaching in the distance. A sense of unease settled over her, and her hand began to tremble slightly, betraying the turmoil churning within her.
"It's alright," Kylo said softly, his voice a soothing whisper that wrapped around them like a warm blanket. "You don't need to be present for the execution, and I'll explain what happened to Hux."
Rey nodded slowly, her thoughts swirling with doubt. Inside her mind, a fierce voice echoed, "You're being weak. What kind of Empress are you?"
Taking a deep breath, she let it out slowly, grounding herself. Kylo, sensing her inner turmoil, wrapped his arm around her shoulders, his warmth offering comfort. "You really look beautiful," he said, his voice low and sincere.
A small smile flickered on Rey's lips, yet she remained silent, lost in her thoughts. Kylo pressed a soft kiss on the side of her temple, his lips brushing gently against her skin, and he rubbed the side of her arm in a soothing gesture. "You must be tired," he continued, his tone tender. "Let's get you back to our room so you can take a hot bath."
Rey raised an eyebrow in surprise. "We have a bath?" she questioned, mentally retracing her memories of their refresher.
"I had one installed just for you," Kylo responded, a hint of pride in his voice.
Hux's voice crackled to life on the communicator, smooth and confident.
"Welcome back, my lord and lady," he declared formally.
"Meet us in the hanger," Kylo commanded. "We have a prisoner who needs to be executed."
"Of course," Hux said with an upbeat tone.
Kylo's sleek starship glided into its designated spot within the vast hangar, the soft hum of its engines gradually fading into a deep silence. Kylo stood reaching out his hand toward Rey, his gesture inviting.
Rey grasped his hand and swiftly pulled herself up from her seated position, her heart pounding with anticipation. She inhaled deeply, feeling the cool air fill her lungs, when Kylo lowered the ramp, revealing the hanger beyond.
Hux waited eagerly at the bottom, greeting them with a smile, and caught his breath when he took in Rey's attire. "You look absolutely stunning, my lady," he said, his admiration evident in his voice.
Rey's gaze met General Hux's, her expression a mask of determination. "Thank you, General. Please let JK-2187 know I will call for him when it's time to depart," she said, her voice unwavering despite the weariness that seeped through.
With that, she turned and strode purposefully down the dimly lit corridor, her resolve guiding her back to the sanctuary of the room she shared with Kylo.
As Rey vanished from sight, Hux's concern for her well-being was evident on his face. "Is something troubling our queen?" he asked Kylo, his voice low and filled with worry, the weight of uncertainty hanging in the air as he watched her retreating figure. They both gazed toward the shadowy corridor from which she had vanished.
Kylo's voice was tense as he recounted the dinner. "We finished the negotiations, but an extra spy from the Resistance managed to infiltrate the feast and uncovered her identity," he revealed, his brow furrowing with the weight of the revelation. "He tried to poison me. We need him executed before he tells anyone."
JK and a flank of soldiers appeared, dragging the unconscious man.
"Put him in cell four," Hux instructed with a calm authority. "I'll handle the arrangements, my lord." His confident demeanor reassured Kylo that the situation was under control.
Kylo nodded, his determination clear, as he marched after Rey.