Chapter 41 - Igniting Hope
Darkness.
A swirling void stretched endlessly before him, an inky expanse that seemed to swallow all light. Kylo felt like he was floating, suspended in this vast sea of darkness, weightless and disoriented.
Suddenly, a white luminous orb appeared, gliding toward him like a shooting star, its brilliance flickering in the depths of the void. It danced around him, swirling rhythmically, teasingly curving around his shoulder, winding around his midsection, and brushing down to his feet before settling in front of him.
A mesmerising beacon in the gloom.
The light emitted a magnetic pull, drawing him in. Hesitantly, he reached up to touch the twinkling orb, wondering if it would sear his flesh. As his fingertips made contact, warmth surged through him, the light climbed through his hand and raced up his arm, spreading throughout his entire body.
It was a comforting glow, wrapping him in a cocoon of warmth and serenity.
In that moment, he could sense Rey again, her presence filling him with a profound sense of calm.
But then reality intruded sharply.
His body jolted, his head collided with the hard headrest behind him. The disorienting shift pulled him back to thinking of his surroundings.
In my seat. Aboard my ship. With Rey.
He struggled to awaken fully, for an overwhelming drowsiness clung to him, as if the weight of the universe was pressing down, preventing him from breaking through to full consciousness.
"Let her go," Hux's voice echoed through the endless void, a chilling whisper that seemed to linger in the air.
Hux? Why can't I wake up?
Panic fluttered in Kylo's chest.
"We can't save her if you don't let her go," Hux's voice boomed, resonating with an urgency that sent ripples through the darkness.
Reluctantly, Kylo allowed his grip to release, feeling the warmth of Rey's presence slip away from his grasp like smoke on the wind.
Strange hands brushed against his body, their touch ghostly, accompanied by hushed whispers that danced around him as he floated in this suspended prison, trapped between consciousness and oblivion.
The darkness pressed in, suffocating and eternal, wrapping him in solitude. He felt the weight of his isolation, a heavy blanket that stifled his every thought.
"You're not alone," Rey's voice whispered gently in his mind, a soft beacon cutting through the depths of despair.
"Neither are you," he murmured in response.
Kylo was engulfed in thought, pondering how much longer he would remain trapped in this confusing state.
Each attempt to wake himself felt like a futile struggle, as if he were being dragged deeper into a shadowy abyss.
Suddenly, a blinding light pierced through the darkness, forcing him to squint. As sensations began to flood back into his body, he experienced a chaotic mixture of exhaustion, tingling, and sharp pain.
With a jolt, his eyes flew open, blinking rapidly as his vision gradually came into focus.
"Call the general. He's awake," a female voice echoed through the sterile air.
Kylo turned his head to survey the room around him. The ceilings loomed dark and oppressive, and the walls were lined with blinking panels that flickered. He realised he was in a medical room, the atmosphere heavy with an antiseptic smell.
A woman leaned over him, her presence sharp and commanding in a First Order uniform. She had white-blonde hair that framed a face with a piercing grey gaze, enhanced by a noticeable scar that traced across her upper lip. A scattering of freckles danced across her cheeks.
"It's alright, my lord. You're back on the Finalizer," she reassured him softly, her voice steady and calm. "You're in the med bay."
He tried to clear his throat to respond, but it felt as though his vocal cords were tangled in cobwebs, refusing to cooperate. Frustrated, he instinctively pressed his hand against his throat, hoping to ease the discomfort.
"Try not to speak," she advised gently, her expression filled with concern.
Moving to a nearby bench, she retrieved a tumbler filled with cool, clear water and grabbed a straw.
"Drink this," she instructed.
She positioned the straw just between his lips, and he took a hesitant sip.
The refreshing sensation of the cool water slid down his throat, provided a welcome relief to the scratchiness he felt. With each sip, the dryness began to dissipate, a small comfort amidst the haze.
He attempted to clear his throat once more, but only a strangled noise escaped his lips.
"You were in a coma," she explained, her eyes searching his for understanding.
Kylo furrowed his brow. "Rey," he murmured.
She smiled warmly. "Lady Ren is in the next room. She's still in a coma."
Kylo attempted to sit up, but she gently pressed him back down onto the soft bed. "You don't have the strength yet," she said softly, her voice laced with concern.
She's right.
Every part of Kylo's body felt heavy and unresponsive, and his head fell back onto the pillow.
The door to the room zoomed open, revealing the familiar figure of the officer with fiery red hair. Kylo turned his head, keen to catch a better view of him.
"You're awake, my lord," Hux said with a brisk tone.
"Kill me now," Kylo whispered and let out a low groan.
"Don't tempt me," Hux replied sharply, his tone laced with impatience. "I assume you've taken care of Emperor Palpatine."
Kylo nodded slowly, his gaze drifting up to the ceiling, lost in thought as shadows danced across the surface above him.
"How could you let her go with you?" Hux demanded, his voice laced with anger as he glared at Kylo. "You nearly got her killed."
Kylo's expression turned serious, and he understood exactly who Hux meant. "She's stubborn," he replied, a hint of exasperation creeping into his tone. "She would have found her own way there."
Hux's frustration deepened. "In her current condition, I can't believe you would put her safety at risk," he retorted, his eyes narrowing as he took in Kylo's demeanor.
"Current condition?" Kylo echoed, a cough escaping him as he shook his head slightly.
The blonde medical officer beside him offered another sip of his drink.
Kylo sighed, his gaze distant. "I know she's still in a coma."
Hux's sneer deepened with disbelief. "I'm not talking about the coma," he said, surveying Kylo. He raised his eyebrows in sudden realisation. "You don't know, do you?"
"Know what?" Kylo shot back, though the sharpness of his response was dulled by a stirring of uncertainty within him.
Hux rubbed his hand wearily down his face, frustration etched across his features. "Well, that explains why you let her confront Emperor Palpatine with you."
"I'm not interested in your manipulations," Kylo replied coldly. "Leave me to rest."
"As you wish," Hux said, turning to exit the room. He paused at the door, glancing back over his shoulder. "The Empress is expected to make a full recovery, and the fetus is currently still viable."
With that, he stepped out, the door clicked shut behind him.
"Fetus?" Kylo whispered, his mind racing as he turned his focus back to the woman who remained in the room.
"Congratulations are in order," she replied softly, a hint of warmth in her tone. "Lady Ren is pregnant."
"Pregnant?" Kylo shook his head in disbelief, his thoughts wrestling with the impossibility of it. "We were told she's infertile. There's no way she can be pregnant."
"I don't know who provided you with that information, but she's indeed pregnant," she said, her expression serious. "It's still in the very early stages, and she requires ongoing medical care to hopefully prevent a loss. Her body is still healing from the ordeal, so only time will tell."
Kylo felt a mixture of confusion and exhilaration. "Okay," he whispered, his voice barely rising above the hum of the medical equipment surrounding him.
The woman by his bedside gently patted his arm, her touch warm and reassuring. "Try to rest, my lord. We'll have you moved into her room soon," she said softly.
With a sigh, Kylo closed his eyes, surrendering to the weight of his fatigue.
When he finally opened them again, the room was cloaked in darkness, but a subtle surge of energy coursed through him. He pushed himself up to a sitting position, his body protesting slightly as he adjusted to his surroundings.
The faint glow of various monitors and machines bathed the room in an eerie light.
Suddenly, the lights in the room brightened gradually, illuminating the space more gently.
A tall man entered, his brown skin contrasting sharply with the crisp black-and-white of his First Order uniform.
"You're awake, my lord," he said, his voice steady and formal. "How are you feeling?"
"Drained," Kylo admitted, the honesty escaping him easily.
"That's to be expected," the man replied, his eyes flicked to the chart he'd picked up from beside the bed. "You've been in a coma for three days," he explained, his tone clinical.
"How's Lady Ren?" Kylo inquired, his tone a blend of urgency and worry. "I'd like to see her."
The medical officer, a stern-looking man with sharp features, nodded in response. "Her vitals are constantly improving," he informed him. He frowned as he scrutinised the chart. "As for you, your nutrient levels are alarmingly low. You need to eat."
Just then, as if on cue, the door swung open, revealing the blonde medical officer from earlier. She entered, carrying a tray laden with an assortment of food—vibrant fruits, steaming grains, and a small, carefully prepared protein.
"I'm not hungry," Kylo replied defiantly, his eyes hardening as he glared at the tray.
"Your body is," the male medical officer insisted firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument. "Eat, and we'll take you to see her."
With that, he turned on his heel and left the room, the door clicked shut behind him.
Kylo's gaze flicked between the tray and the female officer. He parted his lips, uncertainty flickering in his eyes, yet he hesitated to speak.
"The baby is fine too," she added gently, trying to offer reassurance.
"I didn't ask," he shot back tersely, striving for indifference even though the truth was that he desperately wanted to know.
"You may not have asked, but the question is etched all over your face," she replied, her voice gentle as her gaze softened.
She could see the turmoil churning beneath his stoic exterior, a storm of emotions hidden behind his carefully maintained facade.
Kylo snorted dismissively and picked up a dry biscuit from the tray. He took a tentative bite, and turned his head away from her presence.
Understanding his unspoken cue, she quietly retreated, leaving him to his solitude.
As Kylo tried to sample some of the other items on the tray, the food turned in his stomach, causing a wave of nausea to wash over him. Instead, he drained the pitcher of water beside him, the cool liquid providing a brief reprieve from the discomfort.
With a heavy sigh, he pulled himself to his feet, attempting to stretch his tired limbs, which felt stiff and heavy like lead.
Just then, the male medical officer returned, his crisp uniform contrasting sharply with the dim, sterile environment.
"Right this way, my lord," he said, gesturing toward the door with a respectful nod.
Though still slightly unsteady, Kylo moved forward, each step deliberate as he navigated through the doorway. The hallway stretched before him, its sterile walls framing his path.
The female officer stood at the end of the corridor, poised in front of another door on the opposite side, waiting for his arrival.
With a measured pace, Kylo made his way toward her, the door ahead slid open.
As he peered into the room, Kylo was struck by the sight of Rey nestled in a stark white hospital gown that mirrored his own attire, a realisation he had only just come to.
Her hair fell gently across the plush white pillow, matching the pristine sheets that enveloped her like a cocoon.
Unlike the familiar hospital on Inusagi, this moment was different; a breathing apparatus obscured her mouth, and bands around her stomach were connected to a machine that displayed a small, bean-shaped figure, seemingly suspended in the air.
Intrigued, Kylo stepped closer to the intricate machinery, his heart racing as he took in every detail.
"It's too early for a heartbeat," the woman's voice broke the silence behind him, snapping him from his reverie.
In his distraction, he hadn't noticed that his hand was raised toward the floating image. Nodding slowly, he dropped his arm, his gaze shifted back to Rey's fragile form.
Finding a chair at her bedside, he sank into it. He grasped her hand gently, and a choked sound escaped her lips, drawing his eyes to her to face.
The medical officers sprang into action, hastily removing the breathing apparatus.
Her startled gaze met his, and he felt a wave of relief wash over her as she visibly relaxed against the bed, coughing softly to clear her throat.
A nurse offered her a drink of water through a straw, and Rey took a sip, her fingers tightening around his hand as if seeking reassurance from his presence.
The medical officers efficiently moved about the room, checking her vitals and confirming her condition, their expressions a mix of professionalism and concern.
When they confirmed she was stable, Kylo finally spoke.
"Leave us," he commanded.
"Yes, my lord," the officers replied in unison, retreating from the room quickly.
"It's so much better to wake up with you by my side," Rey croaked, her voice raspy and weak as she struggled to adjust to the brightness of the room around her.
A sudden cough wracked her body, and she winced at the discomfort.
Kylo's mind drifted back to her previous hospital stay on Inusagi, where she had panicked and freaked out the medical staff with her use of the force. A small smirk pulled at his mouth.
"Try not to talk," he instructed softly, his tone laced with concern.
He reached for her tumbler of water, carefully positioning the straw between her parched lips. She took a slow, grateful sip, savouring the cool relief it brought her dry throat.
"You've been in a coma for at least three day," he explained.
Rey nodded slowly, absorbing the information while trying to piece together her fragmented memories.
"We're back on the Finalizer," he reassured her.
She nodded again, a flicker of recognition crossing her face while looking around the room.
"Rey… did you know you were pregnant?" he asked gently, his voice barely above a whisper as if afraid to shatter the fragile moment.
"Pregnant?" she gasped painfully, her eyes widening in disbelief. "I can't be." The words tumbled from her lips.
Kylo gestured toward the hologram that was connected to her stomach. Her brow furrowed as she focused on the small, bean-shaped figure flickering to life on the display.
"I—I didn't know," she stuttered, her voice barely above a whisper as she pointed at the image. "Is that…?"
"Yes," he replied, a deep sigh escaping his lips, disbelief evident in his eyes. "It's apparently too early for a heartbeat to be detected."
"I thought I couldn't…" Her voice trailed off.
"So did I," Kylo responded, his gaze unwavering as he considered the implications. "I think I fixed the problem when I healed you."
His eyes drifted to her stomach, which still looked unchanged—flat and toned, as if nothing extraordinary was happening beneath the surface.
"Leia…" Rey whispered.
"Yes, I'll have her retrieved," Kylo confirmed.
"You should do it," Rey advised, her tone firm yet gentle. "To keep our home safe."
Kylo nodded, determination settling in his features. "Rest, my love," he said softly, pulling himself back up to stand.
The medical officers from earlier returned, dragging in another bed. They carefully set it up, and the women gently lifted the sheet.
Kylo, felt the weight of fatigue again, and climbed into the bed and remained seated as he closed his eyes to meditate.
The rhythmic sound of Rey's gentle snoring drifted from the next bed, a soothing reminder of her presence.
When he finally opened his eyes, he was greeted by the sight of a neatly folded set of clothes at the foot of his bed.
He quickly changed, the fabric feeling snug against his skin. He walked over to Rey's bed, leaned down to place a soft kiss on Rey's cheek before he made his way to the bridge.
He navigated the hallway easily. As he entered the bridge, the vast expanse of stars stretched out before him, twinkling like diamonds against the deep black canvas of space.
Hux stood by the viewport, his gaze fixed on the celestial display. "How is she?" he asked, turning slightly to greet Kylo.
"She's still healing," Kylo replied.
"And you?" Hux probed, his tone curious.
"I didn't know you cared," Kylo shot back, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Hux raised an eyebrow, an amused smirk playing at the corners of his lips.
"I'm back to full health," Kylo stated.
"Good," Hux acknowledged, his demeanor growing serious again. "We're still investigating for any more spies. I find it hard to believe General Pryde was the only one."
"Where is he?" Kylo asked, his voice low and intense, a storm of thoughts swirling in his mind.
"Dead," Hux responded. "I shot himself myself. I did try to have you informed, but you were off chasing that wayfinder and putting your pregnant wife in danger," Hux seethed.
"Defeating Emperor Palpatine," Kylo shot back, his tone defensive.
"And the galaxy thanks you for it," Hux replied with a glare, his eyes narrowing as he crossed his arms.
"I need to collect my daughter," Kylo insisted, a sense of urgency creeping into his voice.
"Oh yes, I almost forgot about the other one," Hux said, his sarcasm palpable. "With the number of children we'll have around here, we could practically open our own daycare."
Kylo clenched his jaw, irritation bubbling beneath the surface. "No, that's what the nanny is for."
"Yes, well, it seems Captain Parlux's talents are being wasted in that role," Hux remarked coolly.
"Hux? I don't have time for this. I need..." Kylo trailed off, not wanting to voice the question aloud.
"I'll make sure to keep an eye on Lady Ren while you're away," Hux replied.
"I won't be gone long," Kylo informed him.
Hux nodded, his gaze drifting back toward the infinite expanse of stars shimmering in the darkness.
With a swift turn, Kylo marched to the hanger.
Kylo's ship glided down onto the landing pad next to Rey's black X-wing bathed in the early morning light on Naboo.
He cast a glance at the darkened cockpit and sighed, a sense of longing washing over him.
Has she even gotten to fly it yet?
Stepping out of his vessel, he felt the crisp morning air against his skin as he made his way toward Varykino Villa.
The dawn was just beginning to break, and the rays of the sun spilled softly across the horizon, illuminating the sky with brilliant hues of purple and pink revealing a picturesque and serene scene.
He quickly secured his boat at the dock, the gentle lapping of water against the hull grounding him momentarily.
"Welcome back," JK called out, his voice echoing against the walls of the villa.
Kylo looked up, his gaze meeting the cold barrel of a blaster aimed directly at his head, though it was lowered a moment later.
"How's Leia?" Kylo asked, his concern evident in his tone.
"Still asleep," JK replied, his expression grave. "She's not well, I'm afraid."
A heavy weight settled in Kylo's chest. "I know," he responded quietly. "Take me to her."
With a solemn nod, JK led him through the elegant halls of the villa.
"Welcome back, Master," C4TR said, its metallic voice echoing slightly in the room. "Will Mistress Rey be joining us today?"
"Not today," Kylo replied with a nod.
The door to Leia's room creaked open, revealing a somber scene. Captain Parlux knelt at Leia's bedside, her posture respectful and attentive.
The little girl looked so small and fragile in her single bed, the pale sheets pulled up to her chin.
"Daddy?" came a faint, raspy croak from the bed, her eyes shimmering with hope.
"I'm here, baby," Kylo responded, his heart aching as he swiftly moved around to her side, the soft light illuminating the worry etched on his face.
"My lord," Parlux acknowledged with a slight bow.
"Sam," Kylo replied.
A small smile flickered on Sam's face.
"You both can call me Kylo when we're not in official settings," Kylo offered gently, his voice warm and inviting as he turned his full attention to Leia. "After all, you've been taking good care of my family."
"I don't feel so good," Leia groaned, her brow furrowing in discomfort.
"I'll fix it," Kylo promised, determination shining in his eyes. He took a deep, steadying breath, feeling the cool air fill his lungs.
With one hand, he gently placed his palm over her stomach, while the other rested softly on her forehead. Closing his eyes, he cleared his mind and concentrated deeply.
He could feel the warm, pulsing energy of the Force wrapping around them like an invisible cocoon.
In that moment, he envisioned his lifeforce flowing into her—a small piece of himself bridging the gap between them.
Leia sat up slowly, her eyes widening as she surveyed her surroundings.
"How do you feel?" Kylo asked, his voice low and filled with concern.
A radiant smile spread across Leia's face as she suddenly surged forward, wrapping her arms around Kylo's neck with a delighted squeal.
"Okay, settle down!" Kylo chuckled, amusement dancing in his eyes. "You don't want to use up all your energy."
Kylo cast a glance back at JK. "After we finish breakfast, we'll head back to the Finalizer," he said, his tone carrying a sense of purpose.
"Of course, Kylo," JK replied, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips.
"Where's mummy?" Leia inquired softly, her big eyes shimmering with innocence.
"She's healing," Kylo replied gently, offering a reassuring smile.
"What happened to Rey?" Sam asked, concern etching her features as she leaned forward.
"She got injured during our battle with Emperor Palpatine," he explained. "Both she and the baby should be okay."
"Baby?" Sam's eyes widened in surprise and excitement.
"It's still early days, but hopefully, we'll soon welcome a sibling for this one," Kylo said, his heart swelling with hope.
He turned his attention to Leia. "Now, sweetheart," he continued, "why don't you show me all your favorite parts of our home?"
He leaned down closer to her, a playful glint in his eyes. "And perhaps I'll share my favourite hiding spots with you."
Leia's face lit up with pure joy, and with an infectious giggle, she leaped off the bed, tugging Kylo behind her. Their shared laughter echoed down the halls.
