Chapter 1
Rey Palpatine stood by the window, her gaze fixed on the vibrant hues of the sunset painting the sky in shades of orange and purple.
Her handmaiden, Rose Tico, was focused intently on her task, tightening the final sections of Rey's attire.
Today, instead of the lavish royal gowns she was accustomed to, Rey wore simple servant clothing—a modest dress that fluttered softly around her ankles, designed to help her blend in seamlessly with the common folk.
Although the dress was originally Rose's and slightly shorter due to her smaller frame, they had managed to adjust it, skillfully altering the hem to give Rey a better fit.
Rose, with her nimble fingers, fastened the last clasp at the front of the dress, a hint of concern in her voice. "I don't know about this, your highness," Rose said, stepping back to assess her work.
Rey inhaled deeply, feeling the weight of her decision. "We don't really have much of a choice," she replied, her voice steadier than her racing heart.
Rey turned her attention back to the courtyard, where guards patrolled, their armour glinting in the fading light. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows that danced across the cobblestones.
It was almost time for her to slip out of her bedroom and make her way to the waiting carriage, which would carry her to the neighbouring kingdom.
Rey glanced at Rose, who was taking a step back, her hand shaking slightly.
With a gentle yet firm grip, Rey captured Rose's hand in her own. "I promise you, I will be careful," she said, her voice steady.
Rose's brow furrowed with worry. "But you don't even know what he looks like. What if he is a beast?"
Rey let out a light chuckle, a hint of defiance in her eyes. "I'd gladly take a beast for a husband if it means we finally have the protection we need."
"Are you really sure about this?" Rose asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"He's our only hope," Rey answered, her expression resolute. "His mother is the reigning queen, which speaks volumes to me. It means they likely treat their women with respect and dignity, far better than we do here. And it would ensure the safety of any future daughters I might have."
Rose nodded slowly, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "He's not going to like it," she confessed, her voice filled with apprehension.
"Of course, he won't," Rey replied with a hint of defiance. "Our kingdoms have been at war since before I drew my first breath." She tucked a loose curl behind her ear, her fingers trembling slightly betraying her projected confidence. "We'll announce it at my birthday ball. That's the deadline he gave me to choose a suitor, or he'll impose one of his choices on me."
Rey turned her gaze back toward the window, where the sun was nearly swallowed by the earth, leaving behind a twilight glow that hinted at the coming night.
"I will be back before first light," she said decisively. "It's only a short journey. I'll sneak in, present my proposal, and then slip back here before anyone notices."
Rose absently nodded.
Rey smoothed the fabric of her dress, her fingers brushing against the delicate embroidery. "Are you sure Finn will be there?" she asked, a trace of worry in her voice.
"He promised he would meet you at the edge of the forest," Rose reassured her, her eyes scanning the fading light outside as if she could will the stars to appear.
They watched intently as two guards approached those already standing at the base of the grand staircase that led into the main foyer of the castle.
Clad in gleaming armour, the Knights of Ren were the elite protectors of the fortress, sworn to defend its walls with their lives. They were revered throughout the kingdom, each one a formidable presence in battle.
Rey stood by her window, her breath catching as one of the guards turned his head, gazing up towards her with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. She recognised Kylo Ren's distinctive mask, a symbol of both dread and fascination.
Although she had never seen his face or heard his voice, she was acutely aware of his presence—one of the silent sentinels who moved like shadows through the castle. In just two years, he had climbed the ranks, earning a reputation as a fearsome guardian.
He was the obstacle she needed to slip past, and she had meticulously timed her plan around his scheduled break.
As she observed him, he seemed to pause, the polished surface of his mask reflecting the faint light, his gaze seemingly fixed on her window. In that moment, she felt an unexplainable connection, as though he could penetrate her thoughts, unraveling her carefully laid intentions.
She held his gaze, heart pounding, imagining the intensity of his unseen eyes focused intently on her. Then, just as suddenly as he had stopped, he turned away.
Rey watched as his dark cloak flowed dramatically behind him, sweeping like a raven's wings as he strode back up the stone path toward the massive gates.
With a gust of wind, the gates swung open, and she watched in a mix of anticipation and dread as they closed behind him.
"You must go now," Rose whispered, her voice barely disturbing the tranquility that enveloped the night.
Rey stepped toward her balcony, cool night air wrapping around her like a soft embrace, before turning back to pull Rose into a tight hug.
For a fleeting moment, they breathed together, drawing comfort from each other's presence as the dim light of the candle flickered softly in the room.
After a moment that felt suspended in time, Rose gently broke the embrace and moved to a small wooden table nestled in the corner. With careful hands, she picked up the candle and its holder, she turned back and walked toward Rey's bedroom door but paused, heart heavy as she watched Rey slip into the thick velvet of the darkness outside.
Pressing her back against the cool, rough stone wall, Rey felt a familiar rush of exhilaration course through her. This clandestine escape had become a cherished routine over the years, a ritual that thrummed with the pulse of adventure.
Sneaking out to traverse the dense, whispering forest and the dimly lit, cobblestone streets of her kingdom filled her with an intoxicating sense of freedom.
She hoisted herself onto the thick vines, the sturdy, curling tendrils that had been her accomplices throughout her childhood, as she expertly maneuvered downward.
Her fingers, familiar with every twist and turn of the foliage, found the perfect footholds, allowing her to descend with a graceful fluidity. The leaves rustled softly, like old allies, as she navigated the darkness, guiding her with their gentle whispers.
Finally, she took a bold leap of about a meter, landing soundlessly on the cool, damp ground below, her heart racing with the thrill of the night. She quickly darted to the nearest corner, blending into the shadows, and becoming one with the night, her senses heightened and alert.
Peering cautiously around the edge of the stone wall, she focused intently, her breath steadying as she began to count softly under her breath, her eyes fixed on the guard patrolling the perimeter.
She waited with bated breath, longing for the moment when the guard would turn, offering her a chance to slip away unobserved.
Three. Two. One.
Rey burst into motion, sprinting across the courtyard, her heart pounding like a drum in her chest as she dashed toward a thick hedge. With a swift motion, she slipped behind a bush, its leaves brushing against her as she dropped to her hands and knees, her pulse quickening.
Crawling through a narrow gap in the dense foliage, she felt the cool earth beneath her fingers. She was almost there. Timing was everything; she needed to slip through the gate without drawing the next guard's attention.
Holding her breath to steady herself, she crawled a little closer, her eyes fixed on the guard patrolling nearby. His heavy boots thudded against the cobblestones, and she could just catch the edge of his dark cape fluttering with each step.
Three. Two. One.
With a surge of adrenaline, she opened the gate just wide enough to fit her slender frame, slipping through the opening before quietly pulling it closed behind her. She darted behind a sturdy oak tree not too far from her, its rough bark pressing into her back, concealing her from sight.
Here, she hesitated, listening intently for the unmistakable crunch of the guard's boot on the gravel path, accompanied by the telltale swivel of his heel signaling he had turned back towards her. Rey needed to remain focused, so she took slow, steady breaths, grounding herself in the moment.
The sounds of the courtyard enveloped her, but her senses honed in on the rhythmic thud, thud, thud of the guard's approaching footsteps. As soon as she heard the pivot of his heel…she counted again.
Three. Two. One.
She sprinted through the dimly lit path, her heart pounding as she pushed herself to run as fast and lightly as she could. The corner ahead beckoned her, a perfect hiding spot where she could catch her breath.
With each step, Rey felt the thudding of her footsteps echoing in her ears, but she pressed on, urgency coursing through her veins. Rounding the corner, a wave of relief washed over her as she realised that no one was calling out in pursuit.
She slipped between the ancient trees, their gnarled branches brushing against her arms, and sprinted deeper into the shadows. She leaped over scattered stones, their cool surfaces a reminder of the night's chill, and then slowed her pace as she approached a fallen tree.
Climbing over it, she finally sank to the forest floor, the cool earth grounding her in the moment. Breathing heavily, she pulled her knees to her chest, allowing her frantic heartbeat to gradually return to a steady rhythm.
Time was slipping away, and she knew she could not afford to linger. A short respite was all she could allow herself; the carriage awaited her, and reaching it was her only focus. With a determined look back towards the silhouette of the castle, she steeled herself and set off into the night again.
As she moved, she transitioned into a careful stride, purposefully placing her feet to avoid any noise that might give her away. The moon hung high above, casting a silvery glow that illuminated her path and made the leaves glisten like tiny jewels in the underbrush.
She reveled in the beauty of the moonlit night, the way it danced through the branches and played upon the forest floor. The sight of the carriage finally coming into view at the base of the hill quickened her steps.
A figure moved restlessly in the dim light, pacing back and forth like a guardian waiting for her.
"Finn?" Rey called out, her voice a mix of hope and urgency.
The figure paused, turning towards her, and replied, "Your highness?"
Rey sprinted through the narrow gap and leaped into a warm embrace, feeling the reassuring strength of his arms wrap around her.
After a moment, he stepped back, a concerned look in his eyes. "Are you okay?" Finn asked, his voice steady but filled with worry.
"Yes, let's go," Rey responded, determination sparkling in her gaze.
Finn moved to the door of the dark wooden carriage, his hands expertly pulling it open. The sturdy door creaked slightly as it swung wide, revealing the dimly lit interior.
Rey carefully gathered the edge of her dress and climbed the step into the carriage. She ducked to avoid hitting her head, then settled onto the plush bench seat, her heart racing with anticipation.
Finn secured the door behind her, and she could hear his quick footsteps echoing as he climbed up to take the driver's seat.
A jolt ran through the carriage as the single horse hitched to it began to pull them forward, the sound of its hooves rhythmically striking the ground.
Rey quickly pulled the heavy blinds closed around the small windows on either side, creating a cocoon of darkness that shielded her from prying eyes.
Taking a deep breath, she calmed her racing thoughts. Step one of her intricate plan was complete.
In a couple of hours, she would need to slip into the imposing Skywalker Castle.
Rose had assured her that her friend Kaydel Connix could grant her access, but they had never discussed the specifics of how to do it. They had communicated for weeks by letter refining the details.
Rey focused on the rendezvous point and the vague description of Kaydel's appearance. Rose had kept Rey's true identity a secret; instead, she had given her a false name—Kira—someone seeking an audience with the future King of Alderaan, Ben Skywalker.
The thought stirred a mix of excitement and trepidation within Rey as the carriage rolled onward.
Very little was known about him. He was a recluse who avoided the grand balls and lavish gatherings that filled the social calendar. No one had seen an updated portrait of him since he was a child, which only added to the air of mystery surrounding him.
She imagined his dark hair falling in soft waves, his pale skin contrasting sharply with his deep, dark eyes. Whispers suggested he was tall, casting a shadow that could easily draw attention.
She'd heard rumours of how he had turned down numerous suitors his mother had desperately tried to secure for him, refusing to be a pawn in her matchmaking schemes.
Rey recalled the few occasions she had spotted his parents, Leia Skywalker, and Han Solo, at various events over the years.
Leia, with her regal grace, and Han, a charming commoner with an infectious smile, made her believe that perhaps their son would not so bad after all. Han's warmth was palpable, and she wondered if his son had inherited that same charm and charisma.
As she sat in the carriage, gently swaying with the rhythm of the road, Rey felt herself growing drowsy, the soothing motion lulling her into a dreamlike state.
The sudden jolt as the carriage came to a stop snapped her back to reality.
She heard Finn step down onto the solid ground outside, and then the carriage door swung open, flooding her senses with the fresh air and anticipation of what lay ahead.
Finn extended his hand, a warm smile on his face, as he helped her down from the carriage.
"I can't stay, your highness," he said, a hint of urgency in his voice. "I need to return the carriage before anyone realises it's missing."
"Of course," Rey replied softly, squeezing his hand gently. "I'll see you in the morning."
With a reluctant smile, Finn released her hand, nodding before he closed the carriage door with a soft thud and climbed back up to take his leave.
Rey looked up, taking in the quiet, deserted surroundings, the cobblestones glistening under the faint light of the flickering lamps.
She walked along the narrow path when a feminine voice echoed through the stillness, calling out, "Kira?"
"Yes?" Rey answered.
A girl appeared, her blonde hair tied into two playful buns that framed her face. "If you'll follow me," she said, her voice inviting yet mysterious.
She led Rey to a nearby building, the door creaking as they entered. Inside, a lively gathering of young women close to her age filled the room, their laughter and chatter creating an atmosphere that buzzed with anticipation.
Rey scanned the crowded space, her heart lept as she took in the array of beautiful faces. Some girls boasted sun-kissed skin, while others had luminous porcelain complexions. Heights varied—from the petite to the statuesque—and curves flowed gracefully on those with more voluptuous figures.
Rey shook her head, feeling a mix of awe and uncertainty about her own place among them.
"Okay, ladies," Kaydel called, her voice cutting through the chatter, "as you know, his royal highness will be returning home tonight and has requested some entertainment."
The room fell silent, the anticipation palpable as the young women leaned in, eager for what was to come.
Entertainment? Rey thought to herself.
"May I remind you," Kaydel said with a measured tone, her gaze steady, "you cannot speak unless spoken to. Now, line up."
Rey stepped forward, her heart pounding as she fell into line, desperately hoping that this wasn't the scenario her mind began to conjure.
Kaydel moved with purpose along the line of girls, her hands deftly adjusting each outfit. She smoothed out hems and fixed stray hairs, her fingers moving with practiced precision.
When she reached Rey, she paused, her eyes inspecting every detail. With a swift motion, Kaydel undid the top button of Rey's dress.
"Just a little more skin," she said, her voice calm yet authoritative, before continuing her work down the line.
Oh, god!
Rey took a steadying breath, the cool air filling her lungs as anticipation buzzed in her chest.
Soon, they were marched out of the rustic cabin and guided down a winding path that led to a heavy wooden side gate. As they neared their destination, Kaydel confidently stepped to the front of the group.
"Hello, Poe," Kaydel called out to the knight, who stood there without his helmet, revealing his striking features. He had a rugged handsomeness.
Poe scanned the line of girls, admiration sparkling in his eyes. "You all look beautiful," he remarked, a playful wink accentuating his words as he swung open the gate. "He might actually select one of you this time."
Rey couldn't suppress a roll of her eyes, pushing back her rising nerves.
Step two was complete, but now it was up to her to catch his royal highness's attention.
The girls were escorted through a narrow servants' entrance and into a long, dimly lit corridor. They were instructed to line up against the cool stone wall.
Rey shuffled back, pressing herself against the wall, her fingers fidgeting nervously behind her back.
The echo of approaching boots reverberated through the corridor like thunder, and the flickering flames from the nearby lanterns danced menacingly, casting wavering shadows that seemed to mimic her anxiety.
Rey forced herself to concentrate, her mind racing despite her efforts to stay focused. She turned her head and caught sight of a tall man, his inky black hair swept back in a style that seemed almost regal, flowing behind him like a dark river.
The pale skin of his face was speckled with moles, adding a unique character to his striking appearance, while his lips were full and pouty, catching the light in a way that emphasised their shape.
He was dressed in form-fitting black pants and a sleek black shirt that clung to his athletic frame, with polished boots that echoed authority with each determined step he took. He walked with his chin held high and shoulders back, exuding the confidence befitting of a future king.
At least he's not a beast.
Rey stood a little taller and puffed out her chest, her heart racing as she observed him through her peripheral vision. The Skywalker heir gradually slowed his pace, his sharp gaze sweeping over the girls around him like a judge surveying his subjects.
When he finally stepped into Rey's line of sight, their eyes locked. A ghost of a smirk danced on his lips, hinting at some unspoken secret.
"This one," his deep voice said, extending his palm upward as if offering an unspoken invitation.
Rey glanced down at his hand—strong and inviting—before returning to his intense gaze.
She noticed him raise his eyebrows, an encouraging gesture that spurred her to lift her hand and slide it over his.
"Everybody else out," he commanded.
Rey listened intently as the movements of the other girls around her began to fade away. Through the sea of whispers, she caught sight of Kaydel appearing over his shoulder, a warm smile lighting up her face.
Rey's gaze flicked to her for a brief moment before drifting back to his highness, curiosity and excitement swirling inside her. She watched as Kaydel turned away, melting into the shadows of the corridor.
The future felt like it was intertwined with her hand, guiding her as they veered into a narrower passage and ventured further into the heart of the castle. They navigated through a maze of ornate corridors adorned with intricate tapestries and vibrant banners, the scent of polished stone and distant flowers hanging in the air.
They climbed higher and higher, ascending spiral staircases that creaked softly underfoot, their fingers clasped tightly as if afraid to let go. Suddenly, a guard pushed open a heavy wooden door, its hinges creaking softly as Rey was gently tugged inside.
The moment the door clicked shut behind them, his arms enveloped her in a protective embrace. Their lips met with a fierce urgency, the world outside fading away as he captured her gasp, pulling her ever closer.
Rey felt her heart race as she melted into the kiss, her hands finding their way to the back of his neck, fingers tangling in his hair.
The fabric of her dress gathered behind her, the sensation igniting a thrilling sense of intimacy as their passion deepened.
He lifted her effortlessly, his strong hands gripping her backside, and Rey instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him closer. Her heart pounding as she concentrated on the warmth of his lips against hers and the way his hands roamed across her body with deliberate slowness.
One hand anchored her securely, while the other glided over her arms, journeying down her back and around her thighs—as if he were searching for something.
Leaning back slightly, without breaking the kiss, he traced a path across her stomach, feeling the rise and fall of her breath, before moving up to her chest.
With a sudden motion, he dropped Rey onto the bed, his expression a mask of calm indifference as he stepped back. "Now that I know you aren't concealing a weapon, what are you doing here, Rey?" Ben inquired, his voice a low rumble that sent a thrill up her spine.
Rey took a moment to catch her breath, confusion washing over her as she frowned in response. "What?"
Ben rolled his eyes exaggeratedly as he crossed the room, the soft rustle of fabric following him as he settled into a worn wingback chair that commanded a view of the bed. The dim light cast shadows across his features, and there was something about him that felt eerily familiar.
"Let's try this again," Ben said, his voice sharp and biting, his gaze piercing. "What is the heir to the Palpatine kingdom doing here?" He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, the tension in the air palpable.