The fire danced in the silence of the night, searingly seductive yet elusively untouchable even as her fingers twitched to graze its scalding flickers just once… The smell of burning cloth hung thickly in the bedroom even with three windows pried open wide to the darkness. The torn fabric of one of her older dresses,nicebut not ostentatious enough to reflect her new standing in life, curled in the flames as it blackened and melted before Arievel's eyes.
Between her legs cramped and the Empress winced at the stabbing pain it flung upwards into her lower belly. Handling her monthly cycle was never pleasant but now felt nearly impossible when pretending it hadn't come at all. At least in the privacy of her rooms, she could be more comfortable in the silk of her green nightgown and matching robe. There was no need to comb her hair into an elaborate style or bear the weight of a tiara tonight, she could wear her golden strands free and loose for once. Outside these rooms, every single aspect of her life was closely monitored by her husband and his favoured team of medics. What she ate, when she slept, what she drank… everything to aid in the conception of Vader's glorious little heir.
He came to her rooms at least three times a week and their, well, Arievel couldn't quite call itlovemaking, was nice enough though her husband obviously took no true pleasure from the act. Whilst ensuring she found some enjoyment in their time together, Vader was clinical in every movement. Every kiss, touch and thrust served a purpose, as if sleeping with her was a chore he endured to gain his prize.
Arievel wanted that too, her child a Prince or Princess! An Emperor or Empress one day! Her family's position would be secure forgenerationsandnothingwould ever tear them down again if one oftheirown blood sat on the Imperial throne. Everybody would be so happy with her, soproudof her, all she had to do was conceive…
And yet, six months into her marriage, she still wasn't pregnant. Her eldest sister conceived her niece, Jaina, on her wedding night for gods sake! Vader wasso excitedwhen Arievel shared that with him, imagining her birthing his heir in a mere nine months from their wedding and had eagerly checked up on her every single day for any signs of an arrival to come. His disappointment when her courses came was… She hated thinking about that day. He didn't speak to her for aweekafterwards and no one would tell her where he was.
He was probably whore from Mandalore who walked around the palace as ifshewere the Empress, like she didn't have her own husband and family waiting for her elsewhere. People weren't blind, even if those two liked to deny it, their affair was no secret. She'd seen the pictures in holo-mags more than once, kissing and laughing in darkened corners as if they weren't humiliating her at every turn.
Why couldn't Vader be so open with her? She meant what she said that day at the party, youchoosewho you love, you choosewhoyou build a life with and affection would soon sprout. Arievel had come into this marriage heart open and willing to begin the work to build something momentous together but, apparently, her husband's heart was already in the clutches of another woman. Noweverythingdepended upon an heir. Without Vader's fondness or a child, there was nothing to secure her position.
"No one must find out about this yet," her father's gentle footsteps paced behind Arievel as he stressed. "Your latestfailurecan be hidden until the Emperor is in a more favourable mood toward you."
Without tearing her eyes from the flutter of the flames before her, Arievel gave a stiff nod. "Yes, father." It was easier just to do as she was told, she'd learned that a long time ago. Her father only wanted what was best for her and their family, he was only being protective of their futures. Her lack of progress was hindering the greatness he envisioned for them all.
"Be sweet and pleasant," Rysi continued as if she had not spoken at all, "All smiles and gentle touches wherever you can, men respond well to these things, and saynothingabout his latest exploits with the Mandalorian Duchess. You must as if you know nothing about it. And in a few days, you will go to him and tearfully repent and promise to do better next month. Do you understand?"
Still kneeling before the fireplace, its heat was almost scalding against her face even as it beckoned her even closer, a glowing siren desiring to swallow her whole. The blood-stained bundle of fabric she'd thrown into the blaze was almost gone now, the only evidence of her failure reduced to ash that would be swept away in the morning. This way, no one would notice her using the products for her monthly cycle and rush to tell Vader before she could. If it came from someone else, he would be less understanding.
"Yes, father…"
Arievel began to rise up and away from the fireplace before its lure became too great and she worried at the wedding band around her finger, twisting the diamond-studded ring around and around. Everything depended on her, sheknewthat. Everyone had made sure to tell her again and again in the days leading up to her marriage, but they all said it would be soeasy!All she had to do was get pregnant and they were safe! But she couldn't… her body justwouldn'tdo it. Why? Why couldn't she be like her sisters? Or even her sister-in-law? Padme Skywalker had a child – so why nother?
"The people do not seem to favour the Emperor's affair with the Duchess. You must win their affection so that you become a boon to his public reputation," Rysi continued his pacing as Arievel played with her ring. His words were distant yet still found their way inside her ears. "You must be charitable, seen to do things other people of high standing see as beneath them. I'll have it arranged. They'll compare you to her, naturally, but you're younger and to be seen doing good while her system is in tatters will only make them favour you. The people's love will buy you time to conceive an heir but youmustwork quickly."
"Right…" She muttered.
"Arievel!" The sharpness in Rysi's voice made the Empress' heart stutter, but she had no time to react before his large hands clamped down on her shoulders with a bruising grip. The sudden pain made her begin to cry out, but her father shoved her back, forcing her against the wall with such power that a sharp pain erupted through her back and shoulders, stealing the breath from her lungs and silencing any sound on her lips. She winced, darting her gaze toward the doorway, praying that the guards hadn't overheard the commotion. Listen to me!" he hissed, his face hovering mere inches from her own. "Do you have any idea how much work it took to have the Emperor notice you? Hm? How many favours I have called in and now owe in return for having your name placed on invites to his parties? I have workedtirelesslyto put you in his sights and nowyoumust do the work." His face was so close to hers, tears bloomed in Arievel's eyes quicker than she could blink away. It hadn't been like this since she was a girl. "We have comeso far, child, and no one will be allowed to destroy us ever again!No one! Do you understand me?"
The first tears spilled onto Arievel's cheeks as she mustered the courage to glare and shrug her shoulder free of her father's brutal grip. "Iunderstand!" She hissed, holding his cold gaze until he nodded and released her, turning to make his way to the sofa. Her shaking knees buckled beneath her weight and the Empress slid down the wall to sit on the carpet below.
Everything was going to be better next month. It had to be.
Padme smiled in the dim morning light peeking through the small crack in the curtains at her slumbering husband. Shelovedthese rare moments when she woke up and found him still resting. Anakin never was the best sleeper, often plagued by nightmares and an inability to shut off his mind. He looked so much like Leia when he was sleeping, gentle and relaxed without a care in the galaxy.
Lifting a hand, she traced her fingertip along the hard ridges of his chest and stomach, admiring every wondrously sculpted inch of him with quiet delight. Anakin was so deliciously handsome, even after nearly three years and a child together, he still inspired nervous little quakes inside her. Padme stillwantedhim all the time despite making love to only him for years, it had never lost its thrill or grown stale. She didn't like to think it ever would.
Stretching and yawning, Anakin began to wake and her content smile grew into a grin as his eyes fluttered, and he groaned at the small light disturbing the peace of darkness. "Good morning, Ani," Padme whispered and kissed him, unable to resist any longer.
"Hmm?" He grunted, still coming to his senses as the fog of sleep cleared, "Morning, Angel."
Despite not making love last night, they fell asleep naked in each other's arms, every inch pressed against one another and Padme delighted in that choice as she threw her leg over his hips. Suddenly, he was far more awake. Anakin's warm hands stroked up and down her sides, creeping lower and lower with each descent.
"You know, just yesterday I was thinking about the night we got together at the Hedsard gala," Padme lavished kisses along his sharp jawline, "I wanted you so badly and you were so rude to me… if someone told methisis how we were going to end up, I think I might have laughed."
"Mmm," his hands cupped her backside and kneaded the firm flesh there, "I would have thrown you over my shoulder and found the nearest bedroom then and there."
"Bedroom?" she laughed softly, tilting her head to meet Anakin's darkening gaze with a playful lift of her brow. Her hair spilled forward like a curtain, creating a private little world that shielded them from the outside galaxy. "Not ashed?" she teased, remembering the first eruption of their shared passion inside that cramped shed in the Hedsard gardens, her lips curving into a mischievous smile.
"You're about to get a spanking," he rolled his eyes and kissed her, slipping his tongue into her all too willing the perfect way to start the day. No crying baby, no urgent work commitments, comms or interruptions. Just Padme and Anakin, husband and wife enjoying some time together. If onlyeverymorning got to start out this way…
She didn't have to grind on him to know he was hard, but Padme did it anyway and felt the ache between her legs grow more insistent as he slid against her, teasing them both with what they desired. She slipped along his length, once, twice, three times before Anakin gripped her waist, holding her in place as she reached between their bodies to guide him into place.
Taking him inch by leisurely inch, the most thrilling little shudders raced through her whole body. A deep, pleasured groan parted her lips as she lowered all the way down. "Force…" Anakin grunted when their hips met, squeezing her waist as they savoured this moment of connection. Padme loved how his eyes clenched shut to battle for control and let her set this unhurried pace.
"Is this good?" She whispered as she began to leisurely ride him, lifting and dropping her hips as she took all of him inside her over and over again. Anakin panted below her, sliding one hand up her body to cup her breast and toy with her nipple "Do you like how I ride you, Ani?"
"Do youreallyhave to ask?" He hissed through gritted teeth, opening his eyes to watch her bounce above him, canting her hips with expertise after so long together. "You –force,Angel that's so good, Angel…" he groaned as she clenched her inner walls all around him and began to circle her hips. "I can't live without this…"
She moved faster, riding her husband hard! Delighting in every pleasured moan he gave her, Padme threw back her head and wailed at how sinfully good he felt inside her. She thrilled in the absolutepowershe held over this strong, dynamic man who possessed the ability to tear down mountains if he wished. It turned her on that he would do anything she asked of him without question. Anything it took to make her happy would be hers with only a whisper.
Their hips rocked rhythmically, quickly falling into a well-practised routine as they moved as one. The now constant throbbing inside her was a tell-tale sign of how close he was to the end and Padme moaned to imagine how hard he was going to climax as she moved her straining body faster. Opening her mouth, she cried out her husband's name, beginning to whisper how good he felt inside her, howbigand hard he was, praising him in every filthy way her stimulated mind could muster and he cursed under his breath, eyebrows knitting together as his hard length surged inside her harder as a result.
"You're so beautiful riding my cock," Anakin panted, eyeing every inch of her available to his ravenous eyes, "and you're mine!"
"Always, Ani," Padme gasped, fuelling the protective and possessive side of himself he battled with to a searing flame, "I'm yours! Always yours!"
"Yes!" He cried, grasping her hips and guiding her movements now as the knot inside her tightened and tightened, mere moments away from the explosive climax she was building. Sensing this, Anakin slid one hand between her legs and began stroking her clit in small, quick circles to push her along. "That's it… fuck yes, come for me… That's it, Angel, come all over me…"
She loved it! Loved him. It was amazing and all too much at once and pleasure burst forth between her legs as Padme rode his body, moaning even more as she heard him curse and felt him stiffen beneath her, bursting time and time again inside her. Throwing back her head, she cried his name to the high ceiling above as their climaxes peaked as one, living for the passionate roar her husband gave –
"Master Anakin, Mistress Padme, I thought that I should – oh my!" Threepio stumbled backwards and turned his gleaming, golden body away so quickly, he almost tumbled to the ground with a short cry.
Giving a small, embarrassed shout, Padme clutched the sheets to her body, throwing herself off of her husband to lay beside him instead as Anakin quickly sat up, doing the same. "Damn it, Threepio!" He yelled, highly frustrated by the peak of his climax being interrupted and spoiled. "What is it?"
"My sincerest apologies!" The protocol droid waved an arm frantically despite facing the doorway instead, sounding as utterly mortified as any droid ever could. "I – I believed that I should inform you that Princess Leia is awake and eager to escape her crib for the day."
"Thank you, Threepio, you can go," Padme looked to the ceiling in disbelief as the golden droid hurried out of the bedroom as though his very life depended upon his speed. With Anakin's frustration, she couldn't blame him. As soon as the doors slid shut behind him, she couldn't stop the bubble of laughter which escaped her lips, growing until her shoulders began to shake with it. "Ican't believethat just happened…"
"We need to put a passcode on that damn door," Anakin grumbled, collapsing back down onto the bed with a long groan. "Last thing we need is one of your handmaidens doing the same, I can't exactly wipetheirmemory too."
"In all the time we've been together, has thateverhappened?" Padme rolled her eyes, peeling the sheet from her body and reluctantly climbing out of bed. If Leia was awake, there was no choice but to start their day. It wouldn't be very long before her little girl got frustrated about being made to wait and began to cry through the baby monitor. "Mystaff are swift and discreet, but of course, the droidyoucreated? Well, after today I can't argue on his behalf any longer."
"Hey!" He rolled his eyes, "There'snothingwrong with my programming or wiring… He's just… I don't know where his personality came from."
"Mmhm," uncaring about her nakedness, Padme opened her closet and began sifting through the clothing hanging there. "Anyway we can't put a passcode on the door, Leia's walking now, or stumbling around at least. How much longer will it be until she comes running in here every time she's had a bad dream or can't sleep?"
Behind her, Padme heard him rise from the bed and pad across the room. After a moment, his warm, strong arms wrapped around her body, dragging her back against him and she was all too happy to follow. "Well, you know," Anakin laid gentle kisses along her shoulder, "That might not happen quite so often if Leia had a little brother or sister to spend her time with…"
As he began to speak, she reached for a green velvet gown with a sewn-in belt of silver bearing the Naboo crest across the midriff, but as Padme actually heard his words, her hand stilled in the air, freezing in place as her eyes widened. After a moment, she turned around and found Anakin waiting almost sheepishly for her answer. "You wantanotherbaby?" She asked, laughing through the surprise as she shook her head, "But I thought… I thought you were happy with just Leia."
For a long time, even after hours and hours of tearful talks and wholehearted promises, in the secret parts of her heart and brain, Padme had been deathly afraid Anakin had only agreed to try for another baby to appease her and keep her in his life. She was so excited and absolutely terrified to find out she was pregnant with Leia because his reaction had been so visceral with Luis, but they had beentryingfor Leia. He swore hewantedto start their family and had done everything in his power to prove it to her. It was only his enthusiastic delight in all aspects of her second pregnancy which had finally allowed her to relax and enjoy that special time with him.
It felt so obvious that they were only ever going to have one child. Anakin changed his mind about not wanting a family to try for Leia, but that didn't mean he wanted a whole brood and Padme hadn't let herselfthinkabout it. They were so happy with their daughter, it would be selfish to expect more when he had already changed so much for her. Now, he was asking about potentially giving Leia a sibling? Where had this come from?
"I know," he laughed and kissed her sweetly, "But Padme, you and Leia make me so happy… I couldneverhave imagined… I love herso much, everything about her is amazing and well," Anakin appeared speechless as he fumbled for the right words, "Is having another baby something you would want?"
Somethingshewanted? Right now Padme wanted to laugh, hell she wanted to roll her eyes. Having a child wasn't easy, it was the most difficult and wonderful task of her life and adding another one into the mix would be so complicated when they'd just gotten stability back in their lives… "I just, well, I guess I'msurprisedit's somethingyouwant!" She laughed. "Leia isn't even one!"
His smile began to fall, "Padme, Ilovebeing a father. Having Leia is the best thing to ever happen to me. Have I… Do I not show you enough how you two make me feel?" Something worried and self-conscious came over his handsome face, ruining any excitement he'd just been feeling. "Is there something more you need from me?"
What was she doing? Padme wanted to shake herself until she saw sense. Where had all this worry and suspicion come from all of a sudden? There hadn't been any doubt between them for a long time, why she was acting this way? "No! No, Ani, of course not!" She shook her head and threw her arms around him, pressing a small kiss to the curve of his jaw. "I'm sorry, I don't know what's come over me this morning." He was the very best and most attentive father Leia could have possibly asked for and if Anakin wanted to expand their family… well, she wasn't ready to make a decision this fast. There was a lot she had to think about before trying again. "Let me think about it, okay?" She smiled when they pulled apart, "But I'm certainly open to the possibility."
Before he could answer, Leia's predicted cries bled through the monitor on the bedside table and Padme sighed with a smile. They had kept her waiting long enough, it seemed. "Go have a bath and take your time getting dressed," Anakin kissed her softly, "I'll take care of her this morning."
He grabbed a pair of simple black sleep trousers from his chest of drawers and tugged them on his body before leaving the room to tend to the baby. Padme watched the doors slide shut behind him and looked down at her flat stomach, considering.
It had been a long time since Anakin stepped foot into Vinnis Hedsard's estate. After that fateful night almost three years ago, he was sure he would never return here as the former Senator's annual celebration became no more, but the force was a mysterious thing. Its wills and ways were never to be fully understood. Flanked by a squad of eight troopers, the Supreme Commander leisurely marched into the halls of the manner. True to their agreement, Vinnis had retired immediately from public life and office the morning after his party, but Vader's business wasn't over with him quite yet...
There had been whispers of what was being done with the man's remaining fortuneafterhe paid the wife and child of the guard who took the fall for his nephew's murder. Rumours of the former politician's affinities drifting toward the Rebellion and the terrorists who ran it had reached several important ears. Vinnis Hedsard wasn't going to be allowed to cause his familyonemore hint of trouble, not while Anakin still breathed.
The old man rushed into the grand entrance hall of his manner to meet them, pale and sneering as if Anakin's presence here wasbeneathhim. "Your Majesty!" He glared, "I hadn't thought to expect another royal visit within these walls in my lifetime."
"Well, well, I've missed you too, Vinnis!" Anakin gave a false grin and glanced around the room. Force, suddenly it felt as if no time had passed at all! He could almost believe that he, Padme and Vader had been scheming together to save their backsides from Vinnis' vile plans just a few hours ago! Had nearly three years really gone by so fast?
Anakin hated this place. This building was rotted from the inside out with pure corruption and evil. How many lives were ruined here? How many people were hurt or violated? He still remembered how Padme looked after Varlo attacked her as clearly as if it had happened mere minutes ago. This place had been tainted until its very foundations became putrid.
"Am I permitted to know the reason for such a visit? I believed I was no longer allowed to entertain or be entertained by my peers…" Vinnis scoffed. The bitterness poisoning his force signature was delightful to breathe in.
"We aren't peers," Anakin shook his head, "You are nothing and will foreverbenothing. Soon, your name will be forgotten. Your legacy will be your nephew's death and the whispers of his…inclinations." Absolute smugness brought a smile upon the Prince's mouth as dismay flooded the man's emotions and soured his already furious face. "Myname, however, will live on forever. My family will reign over the galaxy for the rest of time. My children will inheriteverything."
"Surely you haven't come all the way here just to taunt an old man? Even you must be above such things."
"Oh, I'm not above anything when it comes to protecting the people I love," Anakin bared his teeth, "That'swhy I'm here." If scum like Vinnis were still actively making donations to the Rebel Alliance, then it meant the traitors could funnel those credits into more weapons, more bases and soldiers to fight and attempt to dethrone Vader. It had to be stopped. Anakinwas going tostop it. "You see, I've heard some gossip about you, Vinnis, and yourcharitabledonations…"
A small surge of panic flared to life in the other man's force ,Anakin thought,he knows I'm onto him.
"Well, without my prior socialisation, I find myself with a rather large surplus of credits," Vinnis clasped his hands together tightly, "I thought it best to give some away – can't take them with you to the grave, after all, can you? That's the thing about old age, Highness, it makes you think about the gods and what they might think of your life. You'll see that for yourself one day, sooner or later…" Something conniving lit up the old man's face as the bitterness Anakin sensed bled into a quiet fury. If Vinnis had it his way, neither he or Vader would live anotherweeknever mind to old age.
"Well," Anakin clicked his tongue, "Your Emperor, my brother, has decided it's best to look through your finances personally… that way we can put these rumours to rest once and for all. We want statements of your estate's earnings andeverybanking account you have access to going back the last three years. I'm sure since you have nothing to hide, you will turn this evidence in quickly… Say, by the end of tomorrow?"
Vinnis seemed to think for a moment, and a slow, vile smirk painted its way across his thin, pale lips. "My financial decisions have nothing to do with either of you. The Emperor will have no access to my statements because, as well you know, I still have leverage over him. which could see the people revolt against the House of Skywalker until you are dethroned once and for all."
Anakin laughed. He hadn't thought the old man had it in him! Fortunately, Vader was not a gambling man and didn't take unnecessary risks. "You know, it's funny," he began to drift closer to the former Senator, breathing in the fear which pierced through the rage he felt in the man's force signature. The troopers he had brought remained in place, silently awaiting his orders. "Vader thought you might try something like this. I actually gave you the benefit of the doubt, Vinnis. I thought you'd be smart enough to keep your mouth shut after everything… but I guess not. You're welcome to try and spit poison in people's ears, but who do you think people will believe? A senile old man or their beloved Emperor?"
"If you or Vader truly believe that, then you're both even more deluded than I ever thought." Vinnis glowered, "There are large factions of people who despise your brother and wish to see him overthrown. More by the day! They will cling toanythingwhich gives an excuse to revolt –especially his participation in the cover-up of a murder and the incarceration of an innocent man."
Lies!Anakin wanted to hiss the word and shove the man onto the cold marble floor just to see him cry out in fear and pain once his weak bones shattered on impact. The people would stand with Vader! They loved him! But Hedsard's words weren't something they could ever risk getting out. Padme still believed that that guard had volunteered to take the fall to see his family provided for. If she ever found out the truth...
Reaching inside his black cloak and into the pocket of his trousers, Anakin produced the holodisk his brother had slid across the table just this morning at the emergency meeting Vader had frantically called him into. It had come out of nowhere, he and Padme had been about to sit down for breakfast together. Leia had cried her little eyes out about his leaving, holding out her arms to tempt him back, an offer which tore at his heart even now. He'd be back as soon as he could be.
"When I tell you my brother is one of the smartest people I know, I'm not lying," Anakin chuckled as he pressed down on the small button which allowed the blue, flickering recording to play. Footage of the night the three of them had come to their agreement played before everyone in the room, heavily doctored to display only Vinnis' guilt, of course, and the man's eyes widened more and more with each passing moment. There was no sign of Vader or Anakin, no evidence they were ever in the room at all. It was genius. The colour drained from his face as ice-cold panic spread throughout his emotions.
Having seen enough, Anakin switched the recording off. The silence which followed was heavy as Vinnis began to sweat before his eyes. "I – that's not… You – you bastards edited that!"
"We did," he nodded, "it's good work, no?"
"But…"
"Just think of how the galaxy will react once this gets out… A former Senator plotting the murder of his own nephew on the eve of his victims coming forward with their stories. Whowouldn'tbelieve you just snapped? There's only so much pressure a man can take." Anakin shrugged despite the smirk growing upon his mouth. Vinnis would never allow his so-called legacy to be further tainted by his actions, he would submit to Vader's will regardless of his guilt.
"I – I'll still come forward! I'll tell – "
"Who?" Anakin took one more step toward the man who stumbled backwards. "The media? We'll have them silenced. The police? They operate under the control of their Emperor. The Senate? Vader is the Senate. Face it, Vinnis, we have all the power here. So, my advice is, submit the statements if you have nothing to hide… and if you do, perhaps you should confess your treason now and get it over with."
If he could go home and tell his wife that Vinnis Hedsard was imprisoned, it would be worth leaving his family so early just to see the delight on her face. After all this time, true justice was going to be done. The will of the force come together at last.
"Your brother isnoEmperor!" The man cried suddenly, fury twisting his wrinkled face hideously, "He is a tyrant just like your father! Your whole family should be publicly executed and power returned to the Senate! You – "
Anakin slowly lifted his leather-gloved hand, curling it into a fist, cutting off the man's nonsensical shouts as his throat began to constrict, squeezing the air from his lungs in an ungiving grasp. Vinnis choked and clutched at his throat, eyes widening as his face began to redden from lack of breath. "You're beginning to sound like a Rebel, Vinnis," he tutted, "Which is funny, because that'sexactlywho you have been accused of funding…" The former Senator grunted and shook his head, pleading silently for a mercy Anakin didn't wish to give… but sadly, Vader wanted the old man alive.
Releasing his fist, Vinnis' throat opened up again, allowing his feeble body to breathe. The old man collapsed to the floor, his feeble legs unable to hold him up any longer. Laying in a limp heap as he coughed and choked, Vinnis looked at Anakin with such hatred, that it was almost physically searing. "Tell me," he crouched down beside him, "Is it worth my time waiting for the statements or should I just bring you to prison now?"
"Go… fuck… yourself…" Hedsard wheezed, "You'd better hope he doesn't turn onyouone day too," the vague threat was deep and hoarse as Vinnis tried to recover. Anakin only chuckled and rolled his eyes.
"Snips!" He called over his shoulder and a moment later, Ahsoka strode through the vast doorway, grinning wide at finally being called to action after her earlier dismay at waiting outside. "You know what to do." He tipped his head to Vinnis as he struggled to his feet.
"About time you called me, Master, I was beginning to wonder if you brought me all the way here for no reason." The girl pulled a pair of stuncuffs free of the utility belt around her hips. Vinnis didn't bother to fight her as she linked each of his hands into their cold clasp though Anakin almost wished he would, just to see how fast Ahsoka could put him back on the ground.
"Yeah, well, I told you, this is personal." He shrugged, glancing around the room once more, "Did I tell you this is where Padme and I got together?"
"Only about ahundredtimes on the way over," she rolled her eyes, glancing to Rex for backup. The Captain quickly cleared his throat, turning his head away despite the safety of his helmet disguising his face and Anakin glared at them both. Despite all of the ugliness here, this awful placewasthe reason he had everything he loved… he still hated it, though.
"Well," he smiled to the troopers as Ahsoka began leading Vinnis toward the doorway. "I missed breakfast with my daughter for this. Let's get home so I don't miss dinner too."
The Imperial Palace was quiet save for the soft rustling of robes sweeping across the marble floor. Empress Arievel moved with practised grace, her handmaidens flanking her in perfect formation. With their faces obscured by deep hoods, their black attire was purposely akin to the Imperial Guards, but with a splash of opulent red that matched the gleaming jewels decorating Arievel's neck. Every step was purposeful, every curl of her hair deliberate and the detail of her blood-red dress was planned and executed to perfection… yet the cold, tight expression on her face hinted at a storm brewing just beneath the surface.
As they turned the corner, an all too familiar figure appeared ahead of them, Duchess Satine Kryze. Arievel felt her face curl in disgust. How could she show her face here so blatantly? Was her public affair with Vader not disrespectful enough? Now she had to endure seeing this woman around her own home too? The Duchess' icy hair was pinned beneath an ornate headpiece of wide, feathering opals, each gleaming in the light. She looked like a wealthy Empress in her own right.
Something unpleasant curled deep inside her stomach.
Perhaps it was immature, but she couldn't help herself as her voice cut through the still air, icy and composed. "Look, ladies, our guest isstillhere. We should start charging by the hour for the Duchess' rooms." Her handmaidens exchanged cruel glances from beneath their hoods, sniggering. Her loyal serpents ready to strike by her side. Her father wouldn't approve of her behaviour, he told her to act oblivious… but Arievel couldn't stop the venom as it rushed beyond her lips. "Then again, I'm not sure dear Satine can evenaffordsuch an expense right now. Is it true your husband has cut off your access to Mandalore's credits?"
Satine rolled her eyes, seemingly unbothered by her snide remark. Her aloofness only stoked the flaming frustration burning within the Arievel. Mandalore's Duchess straightened her shoulders and made to walk past the Empress without a word, her pace elegant and unhurried – as if her presence meant nothing at all. But Arievel moved swiftly, stepping into her path. The air between them thickened, tension crackling like a live wire.
"I hear your system is dangling by a thread, Duchess," she remarked coolly, her gaze unflinching. "Perhaps you should attend to your planet instead of my husband for a change?"
Satine's pale lips curled into a smile, though there was no warmth in it, only ice. "You know nothing about Mandalore," she said, her words knife-sharp. Her eyes flickered with the same calculating challenge Arievel often saw in the holo-net news – all those reports which criticized Satine for remaining within the Empire, accusing her of neglecting her people at such a trying time. Yet, here she still was in the Imperial court, wrapped in an affair with the Emperor himself.
Arievel couldn't help but wonder if Satine's dalliance with Vader was worth the destruction of her reputation? Of herfamily?
"Excuse me, Empress, but I'm meeting with Vader for dinner," Satine said smoothly, eyes alight with a malicious glint. "I find that I, unlike so many others, have a way of…brighteninghis day."
Arievel's chest tightened, a spike of anger surging through her. Howdarethis woman speak to her this way?Shewas the one in the wrong between them! Satine had no real place here! She stepped forward, her voice growing sharp. "Are you saying that I do not try to please him?"
The Empress couldn't help but wince, even as her anger festered. There it was… the deep, throbbing insecurity she loathed to admit that she felt, laid embarrassingly bare before a woman she couldn't stand. Arievel knew she lacked the hold over Vader that Satine seemed to command. She may be Vader's Empress, but there was something elusive about the way her husband regarded the Duchess, a connection that stung more than she dared admit.
Satine's cold smile widened, a predator toying with its prey. Suddenly, Arievel began to feel very small. Shehatedthe sensation. "I believe you desire little elsebutpleasure," she replied, her voice dripping with condescension. "As does your family, it seems. You appear quite content to wear priceless jewels and flounce around spending the Empire's credits on a whim without enduring the true requirements and sacrifices demanded of an Empress."
Arievel's stomach twisted. Satine's venomous words struck their mark brutally. Perhaps shehadn'tdone all that much as Empress yet, but her father handled all the important things and had her sign off what was necessary. She attended charitable foundationsandendorsed the educational programs Sabe recommended – wasn't that enough?
Satine's gaze lingered coolly. "Tell me, Empress, have you even attended the Senate? Have you met withanyof the Senators from the core worlds to discuss their needs?"
Arievel's lips parted but no words came. The answer was obvious – she hadn't. Not once. It had never occurred to her that her role could be anything more than ornamental, that her title came with responsibilities beyond her marriage. The embarrassment burned deep and she hated that Satine saw it.
"Some people may think your…lifestylefrivolous for the wife of an Emperor," The Duchess said, her voice laced with venom. She stepped closer, her presence overpowering, even without a single outward show of force. Arievel found herself retreating backwards.
Her jaw clenched, fury bubbling beneath her humiliation. She glared at Satine, desperate to lash out, to defend herself against the woman who had inserted herself into her marriage and poisoned things from the very beginning. "If Vader thinks I'm so useless and frivolous," she spat, her voice shaking, "then why did he marry me?" Gods knew he had every option in the galaxy available to him! If he desired something else,anyoneelse, why wouldn't he have pursued them instead?
She wanted to believe her own words, to cling to the notion that if Vader truly cared for Satine, he would have already done whatever was necessary to free her from Mandalore's binds. But he hadn't. He married Arievel and gaveherthe title of his Empress. Surely, thatmeantsomething?
But Satine's laughter, soft and cruel, shattered that fragile hope. She could almosthearthe pieces of it cracking and smashing around her ears.
"I do believe you are thought to be capable of bearing heirs," Satine said, her gaze sliding down to Arievel's flat stomach before flicking back up with a mocking smile. "But I hear you arestillnot pregnant?"
The words hit Arievel as harshly as any physical blow. She'd been trying for months, desperately, under the watchful eyes of the galaxy and Vader's doctors. She followed their every guidance, ate what they recommended, drank whatever medicinal tonics they claimed would help and denied herselfeverythingthey advised would hinder her efforts. The ever-growing pressure to produce an heir was crushing… and yet so far, she'd failed. It was unbearable.
Sensing her pain, Satine's smile sharpened. "Vader has many wonderful qualities, but my dear, patience has never been one of them. He will soon tire of waiting for what he desires… You'll see."
Arievel's throat tightened, her pulse quickening with a flood of fear. Her words echoed every doubt she had tried so hard to suppress – fears that Vader would grow weary of her failures and seek fulfilment elsewhere. The cracks in her marriage, the distance between them, felt more and more like gaping wounds every month no child arrived. If she failed, her family were going to lose everything they'd gained, everything her father had worked so tirelessly to position them for. They were going tohateher! Why couldn't she do the one simple thing everyone else seemed to manage?
Satine brushed past her, not waiting for a response. Her sweet perfume lingered, but in her nose the scent was putrid. Arievel stood frozen, her heart racing, her mind whirling in a storm of fear, shame, and uncertainty. She remained there for several moments, staring at the spot the Duchess occupied as the weight of her worries pressed down upon her.
She hated how that woman –thatwoman – could so effortlessly dismantle her. How Satine could make her feel so small, so insignificant, and worse, how her words felt like the bitter truth.
Was she right? Would Vader grow tired of waiting for her to fulfil her duty as Empress? Would she lose him and her position completely if his patience wore out? Fear and doubt coiled in her chest, raising a hand to clutch at her throat as the shadows of the palace seemed to close in around her, Arievel suddenly wished she'd never taunted the Duchess at all.
Across the table, Vader's laughter echoed through the room as Anakin recounted the story of Vinnis Hedsard's arrest last week. High above the bustling skyline of Coruscant, in his brother's newly refurbished offices within the Senate Rotunda, Anakin took a moment to absorb the changes. The space was sleek and imposing, with black now dominating where their father's favoured vibrant reds once blazed – from the angular doorway to the frames around the long, rectangular windows that offered sweeping views of the cityscape. Shining black tile stretched across the floor, bordered by strips of bright crimson light that traced the room's edges, casting a faint, eerie glow. A similar line of lights pulsed subtly along the edges of Vader's grand desk. It was certainly... different. Grand, and perhaps powerful in its own way, but all Anakin felt as he took it in was a chill and a sense of cold detachment.
Yet it wasn't just the stark redesign that put him on edge. There was something else, something about Vader himself that felt different, a subtle shift that Anakin couldn't quite pinpoint. He frowned slightly, studying his twin with a growing sense of unease. Dressed in a rich, deep red tunic, the Emperor seemed relaxed as he lounged in his chair, his expression animated as he recovered from his laughter. But there was no hiding the dark circles that hung beneath his eyes or the paleness that had overtaken his complexion.
Maybe Vader wasn't getting enough sleep? With the weight of ruling a galaxy pressing down on him, it wouldn't be surprising if sleep eluded him. Anakin certainly understood that struggle, but something about the shadows lurking beneath the surface of Vader's appearance stirred a deeper concern. As the Emperor's laughter faded into the dimly lit room, Anakin couldn't shake the feeling that whatever was troubling his brother ran deeper than mere sleepless nights.
"I want to show you something," Vader's smile widened as he reached for a remote by the corner of the desk. "I've been working on this for averylong time. It has been exceptionally difficult to keep it secret but the effort will pay off tenfold when everything is complete."
Raising a curious eyebrow, Anakin leant forward in his seat as Vader typed a passcode into the remote, triggering the mechanics within his desk to slowly lift and open, sputtering to life a bright projection into the air between them. A large planet came to life before his eyes… no, thatwasn'ta planet. The Supreme Commander's keen eyes took in every part of what hovered between them and a fierce excitement came to life in his belly as he began to understand what he was seeing.
"Vader…" He gaped, "This is… It'smagnificent!" A weapon easily the size of amoonunder the control of the Empire, Anakin couldn't believe it! How did Vader manage to pull this off? Didanyoneknow? "You designed this?"
"With help from my master engineers," the Emperor chuckled proudly, leaning his elbows on the desk. A cold blue light bathed half of Vader's face in its shine, masking the other half in total darkness. "It's an idea I've had for as long as I can remember. I'vedreamedof it. Theultimateweapon. No one can ever challenge my rule again with this behind me – not even the Rebel Alliance will be bold enough once it is unveiled to the galaxy."
"With these calculations…this will be the most powerful weapon to ever exist!" Anakin breathed, eyes widening as the orb's projection spun around slowly, revealing every incredible inch of the design. "How far along are you into construction?"
"The weaponry within its casing will be powerful enough to destroy entireplanetswith a single blast should I command it. When the people learn of my new powers, they will be quick to turn in their so-called Rebel heroes to ensure their existence is spared." Vader's smile turned sly, "I doubt I'll ever have to truly put it to use, but it's comforting to know I'll have the option should the need arise. And to answer your question, brother, the weaponry is complete but the ship's outer shell is still under construction. My engineers have promised me completion by the year's end."
The death of an entire planet in a single blast… Anakin could scarcely imagine such incredible power in the hands of one man alone. His brother wielding control over billions of lives with a single decision. His mind could barely process it! The technology wasspectacular, more progressive than anything he had ever seen before – whoever this engineer was, he wanted to meet with him to overhauleverythingin the military!
When this came to light, the Rebel Alliance was finished. No planet would dare host them in fear of Vader's wrath being turned against them – who would be foolish enough to see an end of their people and world in one blast to protect traitors? Every Rebel would be found and eliminated in one way or another and it would be finally over. His family would be safe.
"Who is this engineer of yours?" Anakin asked, looking at Vader through his weapon's projection, trying to take in every inch his wide eyes could manage.
"Galen Erso," the Emperor answered, "His work is very quickly becoming renowned for its quality and superior design. I've given him an official position here, I want his talents to better the Empire exclusively."
"I've heard of him," he nodded, "Will he reside in the palace? I would like to meet him and discuss some things."
Shaking his head, Vader killed the projection with a mere press of a button on the small remote. The desk closed itself as if it had never opened in the first place and he leant back in his seat. "I offered him and his family generous apartments in the palace, but the man wishes to keep his daughter in her childhood home for now."
"I can understand that," Anakin nodded, "But I'll meet with him… I'd like to see how everything works for myself."
"I would expect nothing less from you," Vader chuckled, "I had thought perhaps Erso's girl might make for a good playmate for Princess Leia, but she's a teenager. I suspect even Leia's charming company might feel a little punishing to the girl."
"Maybe Ahsoka might like a friend instead..." He mused, "Padme always says she should spend more time with girls her age and less with soldiers," Anakin laughed, though his amusement quickly faded as his brother's face hardened. Even now, after everything, Vader still hadn't come to accept his apprentice or his decision to teach her all that he knew. He made sure the two were rarely around each other because he knew how uncomfortable Ahsoka felt around Vader. His dislike of her was palpable evenwithoutthe force. "Don't start," he groaned, "She's a child, Vader, and she's exceptionally gifted with the force. It would have been a waste not to train her."
Rolling his eyes, Vader shook his head, "I will not have this same argument with you yet again. You know my feelings and they aren't going to change no matter how long the girl remains around us. Gifted or not, she is a threat to us and our power."
"Ahsoka is loyal." Anakin's tone grew firm, "She wouldneverturn her back on me or the Empire,ever."
"I hope your faith is rewarded."
The brothers fell into an uncomfortable stretch of silence as Anakin glared out of the window at the passing ships in the distance. Vader was right about one thing, he knew his feelings about Ahsoka's training well enough. They'd had this argument more times than he was willing to count and, force, it was exhausting. Keeping his brother and apprentice separated was a pain in his backside he'd hoped time might mend, but as Ahsoka's powers grew, so did his brother's resentment. If there were others with the ability to channel the force, then they should be encouraged to come forward and join them to protect the Empire! Their presence could only strengthen them.
"Have you ever considered what might happen if Leia awakens her powers?" Vader broke the silence between them and Anakin reluctantly brought his gaze back to meet his twin's. "Force willing, she never will, of course, but it is possible…"
"She won't," Anakin grit his teeth tightly. "Leia's never going to feel so afraid that it awakens her powers, not ever." Gaining the power which ran in his blood was a dangerous and terrible thing and he would see to it that Leia never experienced such fear. To attain the force and its abilities required a true and very real danger, one so terrible that you believed your very life was at stake. He and Vader had been put in that position by their father to draw out their powers on purpose as children, but he couldn't imagine inflicting such barbarity on his child. How had Sidious ever had the stomach for it?
"Not everything is in your control, Anakin," Vader seemed sympathetic for a moment, "Anything can happen to anyone… It might be wise to consider it a possibility. The will of the force is not ours to dictate, after all."
"You're the damned Emperor!" He snapped, "You're telling me you can't make this galaxy safe for my daughter?"
"I can't change everything," Vader said quietly as he slumped slightly in his chair, "Believe me, there are things I would fix if I could… but my power only goes so far."
There it was… that strangeness in his force signature again. Anakin's eyebrows knitted together as he focused on it above everything else, pulling that invisible thread just a little closer for examination. It was foreign, different and yet disturbingly familiar. He'd sensed it before somewhere… but where? "What is it?" He asked, narrowing his eyes at his twin suspiciously. "What are you trying to tell me?"
Vader's yellow gaze slipped lower, downwards to the tabletop for a moment before his eyes shut altogether, bracing himself for whatever the root of this conversation was. "I should have told you some time ago," he sighed, revealing for a moment the weight of the exhaustion he felt. Worry began to swell within Anakin. Whatever this was, if it was affecting Vader this badly, it had to be important. "Did anyone ever tell you about father's diagnosis? Specifically what it was?"
Shaking his head, Anakin answered immediately. "I didn't care to ask. Why?"
"They called it, 'Virothrax',apparently. A way to share the symptoms with medical professionals across the galaxy whilst keeping his identity a secret." Vader's shoulders began to slump, "They never did find a cure for him. The doctors say he was too old and frail to put up a real fight, that once it was contracted, he never stood a chance."
"I don't understand why you're telling me any of this?" Anakin's eyes narrowed, "He's dead, what's the point of looking into it now?" Sidious' death was the greatest thing to happen to either of them. It had been the key to their freedom after so many years of abuse and neglect. Why should he care about what killed the old man now? He would rather forget Sidious ever existed.
For a moment, Vader watched his fingers drum against the edge of his desk rather than meet Anakin's eye and when he did, utter devastation shone within his gaze. "Because, for a long time I haven't been well, Anakin. No one could explain what was happening – no one could make sense of my symptoms… until they compared what I'm suffering to father's illness."
No… Panic sprung to life within the Prince, turning his insides out and closing his throat against any denials. No, it wasn't possible! It couldn't be possible! Not Vader, he was young and healthy! He wasgood, unlike Sidious whose depravity had poisoned him from the inside out. All Anakin could do was shake his head in silent denial again and again. Not Vader. It wasn't right. They would get a second opinion and a third and a fourth and however many more it took to get to therealtruth!
"Anakin…" Vader smiled kindly, despite the fear which shone in his golden eyes, "It's alright – no, really, it is. I have a team of the very best medical professionals working night and day to treat me and ease my symptoms until a cure is found. Thanks to their work, I truly do feel better, I promise."
"How can you say it'salright?" He snapped, "Vader, whatever thisthingis, it killed our father!"
A shadow passed across his brother's face and suddenly Anakin frowned. "He was an old man who'd already hung on for too long," Vader gave a half-hearted shrug, "But I'mstrong.I will fight this and one day, my experience will be a bleak memory we will be too happy to forget. However…" He swallowed uncomfortably, "The doctors, well, their latest theory is that it could be an inheritable gene. They want you and Leia to be tested immediately."
How could this get any worse? Anakin wanted toscreamout into the world beyond the palace at all of the beings continuing their day as if nothing out of the ordinary was happening. How could they? Vader was sick! This putrid disease could destroy him the way it did their father and if that wasn't enough, it could do the same toLeia?His perfect little girl might suffer the way Sidious had...
She was just ababy! Leia hadn't even mastered talking and her fate might already be decided? It was unfair! It wasn't right! Anakin threw himself out of his seat and held shaking his hand over his mouth, beginning to pace. "This is why you've been thinking about her awakening, isn't it?" He asked eventually, "You think if she develops this sickness too, her body will provoke her powers to try and fight it?" How was he supposed to tell all this to Padme? Force help him, how was he supposed to look his wife in the eye and tell herhisblood carried this curse and it might hurt their child? She was going tohatehim. Force, he'd just asked to try for another baby!
How could this be happening?
Anakin sealed his eyes shut ,he thought, praying the force might listen,please spare my baby. Do whatever you want to me, just protect her.
"Nothing is guaranteed, Anakin," Vader broke the silence gently, "Just because I… well, my condition doesn't mean Leia will carry the gene, or you for that matter. I just think it's better to know sooner than later."
Giving a shallow nod, the Prince forced his shaking legs back to the chair he had abandoned. "We're going to get through this," he said firmly, "You're going to be alright and so will Leia, Ipromiseyou."
He swore to the force, Padme's Nubian Goddesses, and any deity which existed, this sickness wasn't going to take the life of anyone he loved. Anakin wouldn'tletit, no matter the cost.