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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: When the Supreme Leader Forgets That He IS the Supreme Leader

Kylo had been in power for nearly a year as Supreme Leader.  He made it a habit of visiting Mustafar at least once every few weeks to spend some time alone in Vader's castle to meditate on the Force and review politics and schedule upcoming meetings. Sometimes he just needed time away from people to have some peace and quiet.

He had just dropped out of light speed and was entering Mustafar's atmosphere. As he descended, all that could be seen for miles outside of his cockpit window were lava flows, volcanoes and ash. He caught sight of his grandfather's castle off in the distance and headed straight for one of the landing pads there. He liked the fact that most of the technology was still operational there, however, he did have some of the tech upgraded with First Order technology since he had become Supreme Leader.

There was a cult group that literally worshiped Darth Vader called the 'Alazmec' people that guarded the castle and one of the Wayfinders that was nearby. The Alazmec people left Kylo alone, for the most part. They knew he was Vader's grandson and also knew how powerful he was with the Force and didn't dare cross or challenge him about anything.

As Kylo was descending down through the atmosphere, his engine alarms started to sound. He didn't know what was wrong and started to run internal scans and diagnostics to test his system. The alarms kept sounding and no matter what he tried to do, nothing seemed to remedy the situation. Finally, within seconds of crash landing, he noticed that his ship was taking a near nose-dive toward the ground, not far from a large lava flow. He was not panicking, but was concerned. He tried to 'vent' the engines and get rid of any ash that may have gotten caught in his filtration system, but it was also to no avail. He braced himself for impact, but before he crashed, he sent out a distress signal, hoping that the Finalizer would receive it and come looking for him.

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Rey was on Ajan Kloss, busy running her usual training course. She had been training with Leia for days now and was finally getting to a point where she felt quite proficient at what she was being shown. Rey was given Leia's own saber and Leia was proud to give it to her, like passing the torch on to her as one of the Jedi's to come after her. Leia was just as powerful with the Force as Luke was and was taking the time to mentor Rey in the Light Side for months now. Leia was aware that Rey and Kylo had interacted with one another on Snoke's flag ship months before, but she had no idea that Kylo had offered Rey his hand or that they were getting closer to one another with a Force Bond!

As Rey was running her training course, she froze in place suddenly, unable to move. It was like something gripped her and ripped her breath right out of her. She got wide eyed as she started seeing visions of Kylo. The Force showed her Mustafar, lava flows, ash and volcanoes. She could see Kylo lying in wreckage. The Force also showed her that where Kylo's ship had crashed was mere yards from a lava flow that could easily consume him and his ship if he didn't have rescue soon enough. 

She turned off her light saber and ran back to the main command center on base and asked to speak with Leia.

Leia agreed to give Rey the Falcon, though Rey tried to keep her emotions under control and not act as if something was wrong, but simply told Leia she wanted some time alone to run an errand, but that it was an important errand of a personal nature.

Rey closed the ramp of the Falcon and punched in the coordinates to Mustafar. She assumed it was Mustafar because of the lava flows and volcanoes she saw in her Force vision. She could feel Kylo's Force signature, but it was faint. Though they had angst between them during their Force Bond conversations, somehow, deep within her, she didn't want to see Kylo dead. She, in fact, had been falling in love with him for months now and though she never admitted it to him openly, she knew she was suppressing her feelings for him due to them being on opposite sides of things.

She had the Falcon in orbit around Ajan Kloss within minutes, set her navigational computers for Mustafar and then jumped to light speed to search for Kylo. She hoped it wasn't too late.

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As Kylo lay unconscious, there was a large lava flow merely yards from where his ship's wreckage was. He was still seated in the cockpit of his Silencer. The heat from the volcanic lava flow was getting hotter, nearly unbearable. Kylo was still unconscious and did not know that he had a broken hand and one of his legs was fractured. His forehead was dripping with sweat due to the rising temperatures from the lava flow getting closer and closer. 

The Finalizer did not receive his distress call. He was too far out from his flag ship, so the only rescue that was coming for him was Rey!

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Chapter 2: Rey Rescues Kylo On Mustafar

Rey had been at light speed for about an hour now following not only Kylo's Force signature, but also a First Order engine signature too.  

"Kylo, it's a good thing I care about you," she mumbled to herself out loud, "I can't believe I'm doing this."

She worked the controls of the Falcon while speeding toward Mustafar. Her proximity alarms sounded, and as she dropped out of light speed, she caught a glimpse of Mustafar off in the distance. From her location, Mustafar looked like a small red ball against the contrast of the blackness of space. She pushed the Falcon as fast it could go, flying just under light speed, to enter orbit. As she neared the planet, the red sphere came into perfect focus. Even though it was such an unpleasant world to visit, it was certainly beautiful to witness from space.

She brought the Falcon down through the atmosphere, and as she did, though the views were breathtaking, since she'd never visited here before, her foremost thoughts were on Kylo. Though he exasperated and irritated her to no end most times, she did care for him and didn't want to see him perish. They were such complicated enemies. She knew they were the typical story of two enemies that knew they had fallen in love, but decided to keep their distance. However, Rey knew that Kylo wanted so much more with her and that he wouldn't hesitate to cross those boundaries to make it happen between them. 

Rey had the Falcon hovering about a hundred or so feet above the lava ridden terrain and was scanning for human life signs. She could feel his Force signature very strongly too. Suddenly, she caught sight of him out of her cockpit window and made a visual of him on the ground. In addition to this, her sensors were sounding because the ship had indeed detected human life signs below.

She was astonished to see Kylo's ship torn apart the way that it was and lying so close to a large lava flow. She brought the Falcon to a smooth landing only a couple of yards away from Kylo's ship and lowered the ramp. As she walked quickly down the ramp, she could see that he was still unconscious in the cockpit. There was little time to spare. The lava flows were nearly at the edge of the Silencer and she had to rouse him or try somehow to get him out of the ship before the ship caught fire due to the heat of the lava.

Rey had ash all over her face and clothes as she rummaged through some of the wreckage to get to Kylo in the cockpit. Once she reached him, she patted his arm and tapped his face gently to rouse him, "Kylo? Kylo.....," she began, "Kylo, come on, wake up for me," she began, "you've got to get out of here."

Kylo was breathing, but was mumbling something barely audible as he was moving his head sleepily from side to side. His eyes were still closed, but he swore he could hear his name being called. At first he thought it was a dream but then the voice kept urging him even more.

"Kylo! Wake up!" she continued, "We have to get you out of here! If you want to live, you have to work with me."

Kylo stopped moving and his eyes stayed closed. Rey leaned her head against his chest to see if he was still breathing and he was not! She assumed it was the fumes that his lungs had taken in from being exposed to so much toxin for the past couple of hours. She laid her hand on his chest and said out loud, "Oh no you don't. You're not going to die like this," and used the Force to transfer some of her own life force to him. She kept at it, her eyes were closed and she concentrated deeply on the Force. Her hand was pressed hard against him as she allowed the Force to channel through her powerfully and straight into Kylo.

She laid her head against his chest again and noticed a heartbeat once more and that his breathing had started again. She breathed a sigh of relief, "Good," she paused as she withdrew her hand, "don't make me use the Force to drag you out of this ship. Kylo! Wake up, you have to work with me here!" she said loudly, still trying to rouse him.

Meanwhile, the lava flows were inching closer and closer by the second. Rey was keenly aware of this fact, but couldn't get Kylo to budge. Though he was breathing again, she had to use all of her strength, in combination with the Force to remove him from this destroyed Silencer.

Rey stood behind him, as best as she could, trying not to lose her own footing and slip into the lava flow that was literally right next to them, and ran her arms up under him, just under his shoulders, and began to drag him out of the ship. She closed her eyes as she used the Force to add to her physical strength and that helped her get more momentum as she dragged him. It took her about two minutes of pulling and exerting herself, but she finally managed to pull him from the wreckage and lay him on the ashen ground a few feet away from his ship. Now that he was out of harm's way from the lava flow, she started trying to rouse him again.

"Boy you're heavy and way too tall!" she said loudly to him as she was breathing heavily after dragging him out of his Silencer. Just as she said this to him, she watched as his ship caught fire due to the lava flames engulfing it. She continued, "I've got to move you further away from this!" she said out loud, "Kylo! Let's go."

Kylo was roused momentarily and slowly opened his eyes, squinted and saw Rey standing over him, and when he did, Rey was leaning over him closely and still speaking to him saying, "Do you want to live? We have to get you onto my ship and out of here. Can you hear me?"

"Rey?" he mumbled softly and then coughed a few times heavily due to the fumes and ash that were in his lungs.

"Yes, it's me. It's Rey. You need to get away from here. I need you to try to stand to your feet. I will help you and you can lean on me, but we need to get you onto the Falcon and breathing some oxygen."

Kylo coughed several more times and barely could keep his eyes open. He nodded weakly and replied, "I'll try."

"That's all I ask," she replied as she helped him stumble a few times as he finally stood on his own feet, but was hunched over a bit.

"My head is killing me," he complained through more coughing.

"I know," Rey began as she helped him hobble toward the Falcon's ramp, "I'll help take care of that. Let's get you on board."

Rey helped him stumble up the ramp, his footing was not the best, but she finally managed to get Kylo into the Falcon and then quickly closed the ramp. The lava flows were slowly creeping up on the Falcon now too. Rey sat Kylo in the co-pilot's chair and propped him up while she took the pilot's seat and started the engines again.

"I've got to move this ship out of the path of this lava flow to a safe distance, then I'll give you some oxygen that I have in the Med area of the ship," she said.

Kylo closed his eyes again and his head leaned back against the head rest as she lifted the Falcon up and out of the way of the lava flow that nearly engulfed the Falcon as well. She watched from up above as Kylo's Silencer was now fully in flames and destroyed. She had arrived just in time. She looked over at Kylo and noticed that he was back to sleep. After moving the Falcon to a safe distance away from any lava flows, she set the ship down once more and then tried to rouse him again.

"Kylo?"

"Hmmm?"

"I need you to wake up for me. Can you stand and let me help you to the back of the ship to lie down? I have an oxygen mask for you to use. Your lungs are full of toxins and ash," Rey said.

"I'll try," he replied.

Rey helped him stand to his feet as he flung his arm over her shoulder and she walked him to the back of the ship and helped him lay down on the bed. She went through their medical supplies and managed to find an oxygen mask and gave it to him.

Kylo nodded and took it from her, breathed in a bit of pure oxygen for a few seconds, then said, "Thank you," he blinked, looking a little confused for a bit, then continued, "I know that you are Rey, but who am I and what am I doing here?"

Rey's eyes opened wide, "Uh, you don't know who you are but you remember me?"

"Yes, I remember you. You're Rey. I know you perfectly. But who am I and why am I on this volcanic planet?"

Rey was shocked and not quite sure where to begin. Now the situation just got a whole lot more interesting! 

"Your name is Kylo Ren, but your birth name is Ben Solo. You are the Supreme Leader, ruler of the galaxy. Don't you remember that?" she asked looking at him with urgency.

Kylo stared at her blankly for a few seconds before replying, "I'm the ruler of this galaxy?"

"Yes, you are. Please tell me you know that?"

"No," he dipped his head in pain for a moment, wincing his eyes, "I don't."

"Well, you are. You rule a government called the First Order and the rest of this galaxy. I found you here on this world when the Force gave me a vision that you were in danger. I came as quickly as I could."

Kylo studied her for a few seconds and replied, "I don't remember being Supreme Leader or anything like that, but I do remember you and I also remember how I feel about you."

Immediately Rey's heart beat faster as he said this, "You remember how you feel about me?"

Kylo nodded, "I remember that I care about you deeply, but not much else. Are we lovers or involved in some way?"

Rey blushed even more now. She was sure that her face was a crimson red as she replied, "Uh, we are not lovers, Kylo, but I do know you care for me. Our relationship is complicated with one another. Can we discuss this later? Right now you need to rest."

Kylo nodded silently and then laid back on the bed and continued to breathe in the pure oxygen for a few more minutes. As Rey sat next to him in a chair she said, "I need to decide where to take you. If I take you back to your people, you won't remember that you're their ruler and won't know what to do. However, if I take you back with me to the Resistance base, my people will seek to kill you! I don't know what to do from here," she sighed with confusion.

"The Resistance? What's that and why would they want to kill me?" Kylo asked.

Rey sighed deeply and looked Kylo in the eye and said, "Oh Kriff, this is going to be one long day....."

Chapter Text

Chapter 3:  The First Order Can't Reach Kylo and Sends A Search Party To Mustafar

"Kriff this is going to be a very long day," Rey began with a deep sigh, "what am I going to do with you?" Rey asked while she shook her head looking at Kylo.

Kylo pulled the oxygen mask away from his face and replied, "Sorry if I've put you in a difficult situation. I just don't remember the First Order or that I'm some kind of ruler or something."

"It's not that you're just 'some' ruler, you are THE ruler of the galaxy, Kylo," she paused, "now I need to decide what to do from here," she replied as she stood to her feet and began to pace a bit.

Kylo kept breathing the pure oxygen for a few more minutes and then Rey continued, "I have an idea. I'm going to keep you here on the Falcon for a couple of days to see how you're doing and if any of your memory comes back. I'll let my people know I'm fine but that my errand is taking longer than expected, but I'm not telling them about you yet. If, after a couple of days, your memory has not returned, I'll have to take you back with me. I can't just drop you off with the First Order with you not knowing you're their ruler or what to do from there," she mused.

Of course, what Kylo did not know yet was that once General Hux found out that Kylo was in a crash and thought he was presumed dead, he would eventually try to take over the First Order as Supreme Leader. General Pryde, of course, would try to oppose Hux, but it would be an internal struggle between the two because General Pryde was loyal to Kylo and wasn't going to give up so easily.

Rey continued, "Look, Kylo, you have to be hungry? Thirsty?" she said as she went to the cabinets where food and water was kept.

"Yeah, I do feel thirsty more than anything," Kylo began, "thank you," he paused, "Rey, I not only remember you, but I remember that I have deep feelings for you. I hope that doesn't make you uncomfortable? I can't help but tell you. There's something about you that I can't deny that draws me."

Rey slowly looked over her shoulder at him as she was getting Kylo's water and food and replied, "Yeah, I know. You've made your intentions, and feelings, toward me known in the past."

"And? Did you ever return my feelings? I don't remember," he replied.

Rey looked over at him rather awkwardly and replied, "Like I said, our relationship is complicated. I do care for you, yes, but there are reasons I haven't accepted your overtures or offer to take your hand."

"I offered you my hand? As in marriage?" Kylo asked, his eyes opening wider.

Rey ran her hand through her hair with yet another deep sigh, "I've done it now," she whispered to herself, and then turned to face Kylo and replied, "yes, you did."

Kylo stood to his feet, and was a bit more steady now, cleared his throat and asked point blank, "Did you reject me?"

Rey hesitated for a few seconds and said, "Yes, Kylo, I did, but it wasn't because I don't care about you. If I didn't care about you, I wouldn't have flew here as quickly as possible to rescue you," she paused and dipped her head for a moment, "I'll tell you more about why I rejected your offer once you sit here and have something to eat and drink, okay?"

"Okay," he replied and took a seat at the table.

Kylo was still giving Rey an intrigued and curious expression as he sipped on some water, looking as if he was waiting for Rey to explain what it was that made their relationship so 'complicated'.

Rey took a seat next to him and clasped her hands in her lap and said, "I know you want answers. I can see it on your face. I'll do my best to explain," she paused and swallowed hard, "you use the Dark Side of the Force and rule a dictatorship government. I, on the other hand, use the Light Side of the Force, and work for the Resistance, which believes in Democracy for the galaxy," she paused, "we care about one another deeply, but are on opposite sides of a war, basically. Does this make sense?"

"Hmmm," he thought deeply, "so, the only things keeping us apart is which side of a war we're on and which side of the Force we use?"

"The only things? Those are big things, Kylo," Rey replied firmly.

"I don't know how I remember you, and my feelings for you, but I do. I may not remember everything else, but I do remember those hazel eyes of yours, the way your smile looked, the sound of your voice," he paused as he noticed he was making Rey blush a bit, then he continued, "one thing I still remember about myself is that I speak my mind. I hope I'm not making you feel uncomfortable?"

"I'm used to hearing you say these things to me," she paused, "but I couldn't accept your offer a year ago. I just wasn't convinced it was the right thing to do or that you and I could possibly make the Dark Side and the Light Side work together. How would we rule together using opposite sides of the Force? So, I made the decision I thought was best at the time."

"It's been a year since I offered you my hand?" Kylo asked, looking somewhat surprised.

"Yes," Rey nodded, "we do share what's called a 'Force Bond', we're a Dyad in the Force, which enables us to speak with one another even if we are light years apart. We've been getting to know one another more over this past year due to this."

"A Force Bond," Kylo mused out loud, "I rather knew it had to be something like that. I could feel a connection with you the moment I opened my eyes and saw you hovering over me. There's something there between us, now it makes sense."

"Mmm, hmmm, and I haven't shared with my people that you and I share this Force Bond. They would never understand. They'd think me a traitor," she paused, "that's why I don't know how I can take you back to my base. My people see you and the First Order as their arch enemy. They'd imprison you, for sure, if not kill you."

"Why not just take me back to my people? Perhaps there are officers there that could help me remember who I am?" Kylo suggested.

"Because, if you return, your officers will expect their 'Supreme Leader' to return and rule, not a leader that has amnesia and doesn't know how to make or enforce laws or govern. Someone would surely try to usurp your place while your memory is gone. Let's see if your memory returns over the next couple of days. I have enough food and water on this ship to sustain us for that long, then we'll make a decision, alright?"

"Alright," Kylo replied, "I am feeling somewhat tired. Can I get some sleep here in this bed?"

"Of course," she replied, "help yourself. I will be up in the cockpit making contact with the Resistance base and let them know that I'm safe, but mention to them that I need more personal time for my 'errand'. That's all they need to know for now."

Rey watched as Kylo laid back on the bed and drifted off to sleep. She watched him sleeping for a few seconds and thought to herself, "Hard to believe this is the same harsh man that rules the galaxy and he doesn't even remember that he's the Supreme Leader."

She left him alone to sleep and went to the cockpit to open the communications systems to make contact with Leia and let her know that she was fine, but would need more time before returning to base. She was stuck between taking him to the Finalizer with no memory or bringing him back with her to the Resistance where his life could be in danger from her own friends!

She thought to herself, "I don't know why I care so much, but I do......"

She knew very well that she had fallen in love with Kylo, but had been resisting those feelings for a year now.

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Meanwhile, Generals Pryde and Hux were scanning the Mustafar system for Kylo. They knew he had gone there for some time alone, but when he didn't check in at his usual time, they became concerned and tried to raise his Silencer on the COMM. What they didn't know was that the Silencer had been destroyed, consumed by lava flows on Mustafar.

"Supreme Leader, come in. This is General Pryde. Come in, Sir," General Pryde began as he spoke on the COMM.

There was no reply. He tried over and over again to reach Kylo to no avail. General Hux tried as well, and when no contact was made, he walked over to General Pryde and suggested that they send a scouting team to look for him.

"The Supreme Leader is not responding," General Hux continued, "we should send some special forces to look for him on Mustafar."

"Yes, I'm beginning to think you are right. He will not answer and he missed his usual check in time with us," he paused, "order a division of our special forces, along with Vicrul and Ushar, to board a transport and to look for the Supreme Leader on Mustafar. Take the Finalizer to light speed at once and, once we enter orbit, launch the transport," he ordered.

General Hux nodded and then went to carry out General Pryde's orders. What Rey did not know was that she'd have to make a decision sooner rather than later about what to do with Kylo. The First Order was on it's way to Mustafar. She had mere hours now to either stay or leave!

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Chapter 4:  The First Order Comes Looking For Kylo on Mustafar

The Finalizer was at light speed and heading straight for Mustafar. Rey was still seated in the cockpit of the Falcon when her proximity alarms sounded. Kylo was still asleep in the back of the ship totally unaware of who he was and that his people were looking for him. What was she going to do?

She looked over the sensors on her console and saw that Kylo's flag ship would be in orbit within a couple of hours' time. She didn't have much time to work with at this point.  She leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes, trying to focus on the Force for any kind of wisdom it could give her. She stood to her feet, feeling somewhat exasperated that she was even in this situation, and then walked back to the kitchen area and decided to get something to eat and drink while Kylo slept. She hadn't eaten in hours. 

She heard a loud explosion outside of the Falcon and it startled her. The explosion shook the hull of the ship, which sent her running to the cockpit again. She looked out the window and noticed that yet another volcano had erupted not far from their location.

"Kriffing planet," she complained as she sat in the pilot's seat and started the engines, "I've got to get out of the path of this volcanic eruption and the lava flow that is sure to head this way," she said to herself as she lifted the ship once more up into the sky.

She used her scanners and noticed that Vader's castle looked safe and decided to take the Falcon to one of the landing pads right at Vader's castle. The castle had remained safe, and out of the line of danger, for decades, so surely this would be a safe place she thought. She flew the Falcon to the castle and safely set it down on a landing platform there and shut down the engines once more.

She finished eating some fruit and sipping on some water. They had enough food, if they rationed, to last them a couple of days, but she hoped that would be enough. The movement of the Falcon woke Kylo and he came walking through the main corridor of the Falcon and straight for the cockpit to find Rey. Rey turned around to see Kylo walking toward her.

"Kylo," she shook her head,"still not wearing a cowel, I see?" she said, putting her hands on her waist and giving him a look of reprimand.

Kylo had a towel wrapped around his waist and replied, "I took a sonic shower. I was covered in ash."

"Where's your uniform?" Rey asked.

"Back on the bed where I left it," he replied, and then he looked out the window noticing they were at Vader's castle, "I see we've moved to a different location. What is this place?"

Rey swiveled around in her chair and gave him yet another confused look, "You don't even remember what this castle is?"

"No," he replied matter-of-factly as he took a seat across from her.

He still was not wearing anything but a towel. His firm, muscular chest was right across from her and it was distracting Rey as she replied, "Um, well....," she paused, trying not to stare, but Kylo saw her getting flustered anyway, then she continued, "this castle is where your grandfather used to live when he wasn't ruling beside the late Emperor during the days of the Empire. It's a long story," she paused again, "let's just say your grandfather was a very important man decades ago in the Empire and this was his castle."

"I see," Kylo paused as he looked out of the window again to survey the castle.

The proximity alarms continued to sound on Rey's control panel and Kylo asked, "So, I remember enough about ships to know that your proximity alarms are sounding. Is someone coming here to look for me?"

Rey sighed with raised eyebrows as she glanced over the controls, "According to my sensors, yes," she paused, "I'm picking up First Order engine signatures. The engine signatures show that they are about two hours from entering orbit around this world, so I have to make a decision quickly about what to do with you."

Kylo leaned back in his chair and said, "I still think taking me back to my people would be the best option."

"I don't think so. I may not work for the First Order, but I know enough to know that they won't take well to a Supreme Leader that doesn't remember who he is or how to command armies or enforce law and order."

"But if you take me back to your people, my chances of survival are slim as well," Kylo began, "what now?"

"All I know is you need to go back to the bedroom area, get dressed again in your uniform. I'm going to take us to Ajan Kloss, that's where my people's home is. I will tell them I'm bringing you with me, and if anyone tries to attack you or harm you, I will personally stop them. I'll do my best to make sure no one harms you," she replied as she finished eating her fruit.

Kylo nodded, stood to his feet and replied, "Alright, I'm sorry to put you in this situation, Rey. I'll go get dressed. Thank you for taking care of me."

Rey sat quietly for a few seconds and then replied with a melancholy expression, "I nearly lost you. You stopped breathing for a while and your heart stopped beating as well."

Kylo looked shocked, "What?"

"Yes. I used the Force and transferred some of my life Force to you to revive you," she replied plainly.

Kylo stood regarding Rey with awe, "You did all of that for me?" he paused, "you must care for me then?"

Rey dipped her head, "I would have done that for anyone I found here in your situation, Kylo."

Kylo shook his head, "I don't know. I think there's something there between us. I can feel it. I remember enough that I didn't want to let go of the idea of winning your heart and your trust. I may not know anything else, but I remember that."

Rey's face flushed, and as it did, Kylo saw it. He walked closer to her, still with only a towel wrapped around his waist and leaned in closer to Rey and continued, "I will win your heart eventually."

Kylo's lips were hovering closely over Rey's. She pushed back in her chair and stepped out of the way, slinking past him and backed up a bit and replied, "We'll see about that. Right now, go get dressed," she ordered as she pointed down the corridor of the Falcon, "we lift off in ten minutes. I've got to get off of Mustafar before your forces arrive here."

Kylo smiled at her with affection and then nodded saying, "Alright."

When he disappeared around the corner, Rey took her seat again, shook her head and smiled to herself and said out loud, "I don't know how much more I could stand seeing him sitting across from me shirtless like that," she said, wiping her forehead.

"I heard that!" Kylo yelled from the back of the ship!

"You heard what??" Rey asked, feeling embarrassed now!

"I heard what you just said. You don't mind seeing me shirtless," he teased her.

"I've seen you like that before, it's no big deal," she replied, trying to give him the impression she was brushing it off.

"You've seen me shirtless before, huh?" he asked as he put his uniform on.

"During one of our Force Bond conversations. It was an accident on your part, but yes, I've seen you like this before," she paused, "now, forget about it and get ready for lift off, okay?" she asked firmly.

A few moments passed and Kylo came and sat next to her in the co-pilot's chair fully dressed in his uniform as Supreme Leader. When Rey looked over at him it all reminded her of who he really was just seeing him sitting beside her in his uniform with his light saber hitched to his side.

Right before she lifted the Falcon off of the ground, she asked, "So, do you even remember how to use that light saber of yours? Do you remember the Force?"

Kylo nodded, "I remember my light saber and I remember that I use the Dark Side of the Force. I don't know why I remember that, but I do."

Rey nodded, "Alright, let's go. Your military will be here within the hour. I've got to get us out of this system and make the jump to light speed fast. Once we arrive on my base, let me handle everything. Everyone will be shocked when they see you, frightened even. I'll have our doctor examine you, but I promise I won't let anyone harm you."

Rey lifted the Falcon up and into the atmosphere now and entered orbit around Mustafar and then Kylo asked,"How do you propose to prevent an entire base full of people from harming me?"

"I have my ways," Rey looked over at him, "I'm just as powerful as you are with the Force. I know how to use that power to protect you. Just trust me."

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The Falcon had jumped to light speed about an hour before the Finalizer reached orbit around Mustafar and General Hux approached General Pryde with an update.

"Allegiant General, we are detecting the Supreme Leader's Silencer on the ground, what's left of it. It apparently discharged a distress signal, but it was too weak for us to have picked up from where we were. I'll send down troops to the surface now to look for him."

"Yes," General Pryde began, "send Vicrul and Ushar, along with special forces. I want what's left of the Silencer brought back into our hangar bay and do not come back here until you find the Supreme Leader! He's got to be on the surface somewhere, even unconscious possibly."

Chapter Text

Chapter 5:  Rey Brings Kylo To The Resistance Base

The Resistance base was monitoring for Rey when Kaydel Connix picked the Falcon up on their sensors.

"General Organa, Rey is on her way back to base. I'm picking her up on our sensors now."

Leia was seated at her console sipping on some Caf that morning and replied, "Good.  I hope she enjoyed her time to herself. Is there any sign of any First Order ships following her?"

"No, Ma'am," Kaydel replied, "however, there is a new message coming in from Rey right now," she paused, "hold on."

Kaydel put her earpiece in and listened to the message that Rey was broadcasting to the Resistance base.

Rey's message was as follows: '*****This is Rey. I'll be making my final approach in about a half hour, however, I am not alone. I'm bringing someone with me and I need you all to trust me. I have Leia's son with me. I found him crash landed on Mustafar and he nearly died. Before you all panic, he has no memory of who he is or that he is the Supreme Leader and is NO threat to us. I repeat, he has amnesia and is no threat to us. I couldn't leave him there to die. Let Leia know that I have her son with me and that no one is to make any aggressive moves against him or I will defend her son with every ounce of power I have."*****

Kaydel's eyes went wide!  

"Um, Leia? You need to get over here and listen to this message from Rey right now!" Kaydel said loudly.

Leia left her console with urgency and stood beside Kaydel and replied, "Alright, Kaydel? What seems to be the problem that you're this upset?"

"Listen to this," Kaydel said as she now broadcast Rey's message for everyone to hear in the command center on base.

Leia played the message back twice and could hardly believe her ears! 

"Listen up everyone, I want us on high alert, yes, and to take stations, but apparently my son is not aware of who he is and is not being accompanied by any First Order ships or troops. He's alone with Rey. I'll explain more, but for now, we have to trust that Rey says he is NOT a threat to us. The only personnel I want with me is Rey, Kaydel, and Rose. All of the rest of you return to your quarters until further notice," Leia ordered.

Poe and Finn protested, but Poe spoke up first and said, "Leia, why can't we be here?! If Ren is being brought to this base, there's no way it's safe! You need us here armed with our weapons!"

"No, you are one of the reasons I don't need this right now! You are quick to pull the trigger, Poe!," Leia began, "you and Finn report to your quarters until I can assess the situation. That's an order!"

"General, Ren cannot be trusted," Finn protested as well, "he could be playing a trick on Rey just to get to our base."

"Why would he play a trick like this? If this were a trick, not only would Rey know it, but my son would know he'd be surrounded by enemies alone in enemy territory and putting his life at risk. No, this seems legitimate. Now, head to your quarters as well until further notice."

Both Finn, Poe and most of the Resistance obeyed Leia's orders and went back to their personal quarters as the Falcon was making it's final descent onto Ajan Kloss.

***************************

A division of Special Forces First Order troops were on the ground where Kylo's TIE Silencer had crashed.  The soldiers were reporting in to the Finalizer about the situation.

"General Pryde here."

"General," one of the troopers began, "there is no sign of the Supreme Leader.  The only trace of what remains is his Silencer, which is destroyed by both a crash and a lava flow that went through here. We are running some more scans to see whether he left on foot somewhere."

"Alright, be sure to check Vader's castle as well. The Supreme Leader may have made it there on foot," General Pryde mentioned, "however, my feeling is if he had, he would have tried to make contact with us from the castle, but check anyway just to be sure," he ordered.

"Yes, General," the trooper replied as he closed the COMM.

*********************

The Falcon came in for a landing at the Resistance base. Kylo was seated next to Rey in the co-pilot's chair. Rey looked nervously around the base as she lowered the ramp. She could see through the cockpit window that no one was around except Leia, Kaydel and Rose. 

Kylo winced a bit in pain due to a head injury and then looked over at Rey and asked, "So, this is your base? There's no one here."

"Our leader is your mother. She most likely ordered the base to clear out for your own safety when she received the message that I was bringing you here," she paused, "remember, you need to follow my lead and let me handle everything. They know you've lost your memory, but when any of my people set eyes on you, their first thought will be that you are the enemy, the Supreme Leader."

Kylo nodded, "Alright."

Rey stood to her feet, shut the engines down and lowered the ramp. She told Kylo to stay on board for a moment while she spoke with Leia at the bottom of the ramp.

"Rey," Leia began, "what is going on here? This completely caught me off guard. Are you sure my son has amnesia?"

"Hi Leia. Yes, as hard as this is to believe, he doesn't remember that he is the Supreme Leader. He remembers me and he remembers how to use the Force, but other than that, he remembers nothing," she paused again as Kylo appeared at the top of the ramp, "he's harmless for now. You can trust me. He needs to see our doctor though. I had to revive him once I found him. His heart stopped for a few seconds and his lungs were filled with ash from being on Mustafar too close to a lava flow for too long."

Kylo started making his way down the ramp, and as he did, Leia's eyes were filled with wonder, but mixed with compassion as well. She hadn't seen her son for years, since before she'd sent him to Luke for training. When he had become Supreme Leader a year before, she naturally assumed she'd never see him again, now here he was, standing at the bottom of the ramp.

Kylo made eye contact with his mother. He was still dressed in full uniform as the Supreme Leader and looked every bit the role, even though he didn't remember that he was the ruler of the galaxy.

"I assume you are General Organa?" Kylo asked.

Leia walked up to her son with wonder written all over her face and nodded with a smile, "Ben? I can't believe it's you. Yes, I'm General Organa, leader of the Resistance, but I'm also your mother. Do you remember me?"

Kylo shook his head, "No. I don't. I only remember Rey."

"I see," she paused, "well, I have the base cleared for now and everyone sent back to their quarters. I know you don't remember this, but you are the enemy around here and even though you have amnesia, my people consider you a threat. I didn't want anyone to harm you, so I made sure the base was clear when you landed," she paused, "I would like to have our doctor take a look at you. Rey tells me she almost lost you."

Leia extended her hand to Kylo. Kylo, not remembering his mother, had no problem extending his hand back, shook it and said, "Thanks for having me."

Leia could hardly believe this!

"Come this way, Ben," Leia paused, "your birth name is Ben. You remember that?"

"Rey told me. She said I go by the name of 'Kylo' as Supreme Leader, but that my birth name is 'Ben'."

Poe, Finn, and the rest of the Resistance were watching out of the windows of their personal quarters as Rey and Leia escorted Kylo across the base and into the command center where the doctor was. 

"I should take one shot from here with my blaster!" Poe began, "I could end this right here and now. Without their Supreme Leader, the First Order would be vulnerable for attack."

"No!" Finn protested, "Leia has us under strict orders not to interfere. Regardless of how much we hate Ren, she would never forgive us for targeting her son."

"Here's another question," Poe continued, "why in kriffing's name did Rey race off to save Ren on Mustafar anyway? How would she even be aware of his situation? What's going on between those two?"

Finn shrugged his shoulders, put his hands on his waist with a sigh, "Now, that's a good question!"

**********************

The Special Forces First Order troops reported back to the Finalizer again that Kylo was not in Vader's castle.

"General Pryde, we can confirm that the Supreme Leader is nowhere on site here in Vader's castle. We will have what remains of his ship brought back to the Finalizer, but we cannot find him anywhere, however, our sensors are picking up what appears to be a Resistance ship signature that was nearby here on the planet. Should we follow up?"

"General Pryde replied, "Yes, if a Resistance vessel engine signature is found, then that means someone from them must have run into him on the surface. That means the Supreme Leader could be in the hands of our enemies. Bring what remains of the Supreme Leader's Silencer back on board so no one scavenges for parts and technology and then report back. We will be scanning for any Resistance engine signatures that may have recently left this system and follow it."

***********************

As Rey and Leia walked Kylo into the main command center to see the doctor, the doctor's eyes opened wide with fear. She took a few steps backward and her back hit the wall. 

"It's okay," Leia began as she lifted her hand up to calm the doctor, "he's not a threat."

"Like hell he isn't!" the doctor said angrily, "can someone tell me why Kylo Ren is here in my office?" she asked as she pulled a blaster off of her belt.

Kylo saw her pull her blaster and, out of instinct, he used the Force, lifted his hand and pulled the doctor's blaster from her hand and the blaster flew across the room and straight into Kylo's hand. Kylo handed the blaster to Rey and she took it from him.

"I'm not a threat," Kylo continued, "I don't remember who I am."

The doctor was stunned, "You just used the Force! And you're telling me you don't remember who you are?"

"No, I don't," he replied.

Rey interjected, "Doctor, please. Trust me. He's not a threat. He has amnesia. It's a long story, but I need you to check his vitals. His heart stopped for a few seconds on Mustafar and his lungs need to be checked as well to see if they're clear of ash or debris."

Rey motioned for Kylo to take a seat on a bio bed as the doctor nervously and anxiously walked back over to where Kylo was seated. 

"Okay???" she replied nervously as she held up a scanner carefully in front of Kylo.

******************

While General Pryde was scanning for any Resistance engine signatures that may have left the system, General Hux began to assume the worst about Kylo. General Hux had always wanted to be the Supreme Leader ever since Snoke had perished on the Supremacy. When Hux found Kylo unconscious on the floor of the throne room that day, he was about to pull his blaster out to kill Kylo on the spot and take Snoke's place as Supreme Leader, but thankfully, Kylo woke up in time. 

Ever since that day, General Hux had looked for an opportunity to undermine Kylo and take his place as ruler of the galaxy. He was hoping that this very situation would provide him with the chance!

Chapter Text

Chapter 6:  The First Order Knows Kylo Is On Ajan Kloss

Rey and Leia were standing side-by-side in the Resistance Med Bay while the doctor was examining Kylo. Rey couldn't help but glance at Leia and say, "Our doctor looks less than eager, or at ease, to be treating Ben."

"Can you blame her?" Leia asked, "He's my son and I will never stop loving him, but since he uses the Dark Side and is the ruler of a dictatorship that has been our enemy since the days of the Empire, I don't blame her for feeling nervous."

"I guess so," Rey replied, but then Leia noticed a look of compassion come over Rey's face as she watched the doctor continue to examine Kylo.

"You care about Ben, don't you?" Leia asked.

Rey took a deep, deep breath and put her hands on her waist, "I do. The Force gave me a vision of him in trouble while he was on Mustafar and I didn't hesitate to go after him. Leia, I have so much I haven't told you yet about the very complicated relationship I have with your son, but suffice it to say, I do care about him. Did I ever tell you that he asked me to take his hand a year ago after he killed Snoke?"

"He what?" Leia asked, "Rey, why do I get the feeling there's a lot more going on between you two than just a complicated enemies scenario here?" Leia asked with raised eyebrows of suspicion.

Rey dipped her head, "There is a lot more to 'our' story, Leia. When I was on Ahch-To with Luke, that was when I found out that Ben and I have a Force Bond that can connect anywhere at any time, even from light years away. We even touched hands through our Bond even though he was on the other side of the galaxy at the time," she paused, "after we touched hands, I saw Ben's heart. I mean, I really saw deeply into his soul and the person he is. It was then and there that I started to have deep feelings for him despite the fact that he uses the Dark Side or rules a dictatorship. It was as though the Force was purposely bringing us together, despite our differences. Ever since then, Ben has been trying to win me and win my trust, but I just haven't been able to accept his offer."

Leia was extremely intrigued by now and kept glancing over in Kylo's direction to make sure he was not overhearing her conversation with Rey and replied, "So, he essentially offered you his hand in marriage? Wow," she paused, "what is it he expected you to do? Doesn't he know you use the Light Side of the Force? How could that work between you if you ruled together?"

"I don't know," Rey began, "that's why I declined and left that day and flew to Crait. I decided to say 'no' and keep my distance. However, I still can't explain why the Force has kept connecting he and I over this past year so strongly. It can't be a coincidence. So, when the Force showed me that Ben was in trouble, I left to go after him. I didn't know how our friends here would react, but I couldn't leave him there to die. I thought about returning him to the First Order, but how could he do that? He doesn't even remember his own politics, laws or how to be the Supreme Leader. Someone could be an enemy from within and try to usurp him."

Leia nodded, "Well, it was a tough decision for you to make. My only concern is that having him here poses a danger to him too. Also, the possibility that someone else could try to usurp Ben's place anyway, Rey. What if he has enemies within the ranks that would jump at the chance to take over?"

"As a matter of fact, he does," Rey replied as she glanced over at Leia, "Ben told me once during one of our Force Bond conversations that there is a General named Hux that hates him. He explained that this General Hux would jump at the chance to rule the galaxy. Ben warned me that if that had happened that General Hux would not want a balanced government for the galaxy. He'd only push for the Dark Side to rule."

"Hmmm," Leia continued, "so, you're saying that Ben was asking you to join him so that you two could rule together and bring balance to the Force and the First Order's government?"

"Yes, that's what he offered," Rey paused, "he said if I joined him, that I'd rule equally with him and bring the influence of the Light Side with me. I just didn't know if I could trust him yet. I would have felt so out of place taking his hand that day and joining the First Order! I was also worried about how you, my friends, would see me after that," Rey dipped her head again, "I think Ben was sincere, but I just didn't know what to do that day, so I left him on the Supremacy and flew to Crait."

"I see," Leia nodded as she continued to watch the doctor work on Kylo and give him another oxygen mask and a sedative, "Rey, I never thought I'd hear myself say this, but what if the First Order puts General Hux in place because they can't find Ben? That would be even worse for the galaxy. I don't want to see you join the First Order, but if I had to choose the lesser of two evils, what if Ben's memory returns and he finally remembers that he's the Supreme Leader? You could rule with him and bring the voice and influence of the Light Side into things? If this General Hux comes to power, he could usurp Ben's place and everything would be worse for the galaxy."

"Are you actually suggesting I join Ben, Leia?" Rey asked looking astonished.

"I know it sounds crazy, even to me, but what's the alternative? Let the Dark Side rule alone under General Hux or help Ben recover his memories and get him back on his throne? At least he is offering you the chance to rule with him and bring the Light Side and give all of us a voice?"

"Hmmm, that's something I never even considered because I was so afraid you, along with all of our friends, would hate me for choosing to do," she replied.

Just then, the doctor walked over to Leia and Rey and said, "The Supreme Leader, or Ren, should I say, is asleep. He needed more oxygen and I gave him some medication to help clear his lungs. He was in bad shape. We caught the toxins before they could get into his blood stream."

"Thank you, doctor, you really helped my son," Leia replied as she walked over to Kylo's bed side.

The doctor walked over with Leia and Rey and stood beside Kylo looking over his vitals again and said, "He should be asleep now for a few hours. His heart stopping for just those few seconds took a toll. He needs time to recover. I can't believe I just used my medical expertise to save my sworn arch enemy today!"

Leia put her hand on top of Kylo's hand and replied, "I know, but despite all of that, he's still my son. I don't agree with his use of the Dark Side of the Force or his political views, but I would never wish my own son dead."

Just then, Kaydel Connix came running into the Med Bay area and said, "General Organa! Rey!," she paused, "our sensors have picked up the Supreme Leader's flag ship on an intercept course with Ajan Kloss. They must have traced the Falcon's engine signature here! What do we do now?"

"I suggest we allow everyone to leave their quarters now and take up defensive stances all over the base. Also, launch our transports and man the Raddus, along with our other battle cruiser. Fuel our X-Wings and get every pilot we have ready to engage the Finalizer when it arrives. How long do we have before it enters orbit here?" Leia asked.

"We've got about five hours to prepare, General."

"Alright, let's go to high alert, in the meantime, I'll come up with a plan and discuss what we can do with Rey and then alert all of you what our decision is in a meeting in two hours," she ordered, "is the planetary shield we have been working on in operation yet?"

"It hasn't been tested yet, General, but our engineers are working on it day and night," Kaydel replied.

"I heard a rumor that we were developing a planetary shield," Rey began, "I thought it was merely a rumor though?"

"No, it's not just a rumor," Leia replied, then she turned to Kaydel and continued, "we need to run some trial tests on the planetary shield now! We have five hours to work with. They knew my son is here and they will want their Supreme Leader back. They probably assume we found him on Mustafar and took him prisoner or worse," she paused, "be prepared for battle and run those tests now to see if the planetary shield will be operational. If it is, the shield will buy us at least a couple of days' time of protection before it fails," she ordered.

"Yes, General, I'll get right on it."

************************

The Finalizer was at light speed and moving as quickly as possible toward Ajan Kloss when General Pryde got an update from General Hux about the situation.

"Allegiant General, we've deduced that a Resistance engine signature has been found heading in the direction of a planet called Ajan Kloss, which we assume is the Resistance's new base of operation. They most likely have the Supreme Leader there. If they didn't kill him, then they've certainly kept him prisoner!"

General Pryde replied, "Fine, keep our coordinates set for Ajan Kloss. As we get closer to the system, scan for any defenses that the Resistance may already have in place. Their sensors are sensitive enough that they probably already know we are on our way there to intercept them and are looking for the Supreme Leader. Push this ship as fast as it can go!" he ordered.

"Allegiant General," Hux continued, "may I speak with you in private, Sir?"

"Certainly," General Pryde replied, "go ahead."

"Sir, if, for some reason, the Supreme Leader is found to have been killed by the Resistance, we will need a replacement to rule the First Order and this galaxy, and......I was thinking that I....."

General Pryde abruptly interrupted General Hux aggressively and replied, "I know what you're thinking, Hux! You have wanted the Supreme Leader out of the way for this past year. I am well aware from watching video surveillance footage that you tried to pull your blaster out of your coat and kill our Supreme Leader while he was unconscious on the floor of Snoke's throne room. I'm not blind to what your ambitions are. If you even think of trying to take over rulership of the First Order or this galaxy, I will personally oppose you!"

"Allegiant General, I come from a long line of high ranking officers in the First Order, and even from the time of the Empire, I'd be well suited to the position if need be," Hux protested.

General Pryde glared at General Hux and said, "You've been warned. I am loyal to the Supreme Leader. He will be found, and when he is, I will inform him of your intended treason, but until then, if you believe you can garner enough support to usurp our ruler, you are mistaken. If you mention this again in my hearing, I will personally end your life! Now, get back to your post and let's get the Supreme Leader back where he belongs!" he threatened harshly.

*********************

Kylo had been asleep for two hours while Rey sat at his bedside. Poe came walking into the Med Bay area and stood with his arms crossed across his chest and glared down at Kylo while he slept.

"Rey, what is up with this? Why are you sitting here by Ren's bedside, protecting him? He deserves to die or at least be imprisoned."

Rey stood to her feet and pointed at Poe and replied, "Back up, Poe! Don't come in here to be difficult," she paused and put herself between Kylo and Poe, and then continued, "I have my reasons for protecting him."

"Yeah, I get that feeling," Poe paused and glanced down at Kylo with suspicion, "you have feelings for him, don't you?"

"Poe, that's enough. Leave. Ben needs rest."

"Ben? Oh, now you're calling him, 'Ben'? I thought he was 'Ren' our arch enemy?" Poe asked.

"He has been the Resistance's enemy, yes, but somehow, he's not my personal enemy. I'm not leaving his side because I don't trust that you, Finn or someone else might try to harm him if I leave," she replied.

"Rey, this man rules a dictatorship, as you know. If we keep him here, imprisoned, he can't take his place again as Supreme Leader. Do you know what kind of advantage that would give the Resistance, and the rest of the galaxy?"

"You think so, huh? Leia and I have already discussed that very scenario. What you don't know is that Ben has a General in the First Order that would like nothing more than to take his place as Supreme Leader. This General Hux would rule with an even darker agenda than you think Ben would," she paused and looked down at Kylo sleeping, "Ben offered me his hand a year ago. He also offered me the chance to rule with him and bring the Light Side into First Order politics. Which would you rather deal with? General Hux or me ruling at Ben's side and bringing the Light Side with me?"

"What? Wait a minute! All of this is too much information coming at me all at once. He offered you his hand in marriage and to rule with him?" Poe asked in astonishment.

"That's what I'm saying," Rey paused, "it might not be so bad if we help him remember who he is, that he rules this galaxy and then help him retake his rightful place as ruler. I would have to reconsider taking his hand and ruling with him so that someone even worse won't take his place to govern the galaxy, namely....,this General Hux he's told me about."

Poe shook his head in disbelief, "I can't believe this," he replied as he walked out of the Med Bay and left Rey alone with Kylo.

******************

Another hour had passed and the Resistance had completed two successful tests of the planetary shield system and put it in operation. Kylo had woken up and was sitting up in bed now. Rey was seated right beside him as he woke up.

"Look whose awake," Rey mumbled softly.

Kylo looked over at her and replied, "Hi. I'm still groggy, but feeling better. I know your doctor was afraid of me a while ago, but I need to thank her for helping me," he paused, "now if I could only remember that I was the Supreme Leader of this galaxy, I'd have half my battle won."

"I know," Rey began, "speaking of your memory, your people, the First Order, are on their way here in your flag ship, the Finalizer. They are, no doubt, looking for you. We have a planetary defense shield up which will protect us for two days and nights, but once the shield fails, we may be engaging them in combat unless you can get your memory back by then. If you can recover your memory, you could order your people to stand down."

"I don't need my memory back to order them to stand down," Kylo sat upright and threw his legs over the side of the bio bed, "they don't have to know my memory is gone. All they have to do is hear my voice giving them orders and then they will stand down."

"True," Rey replied, "let's hope that if it comes to that it will work. Our sensors indicate that the Finalizer's weapons are charged and ready for combat against us. They most likely believe we kidnapped you and have either killed you or are holding you hostage. But, yes, if you need to speak to them, whether your memories are returned or not, and order them not to attack, that may help buy us some time."

Kylo tried to stand up and Rey helped him to his feet, "Where do you want to go? You're still weak," Rey remarked.

"I just want to take a walk outside. I need some fresh air," he answered as Rey helped him outside the Med Bay area.

As soon as Kylo set foot outside the door and out into the open air and sun, he felt refreshed, but was soon met with the stares and glares of many Resistance members that were standing around the base. Everyone got quiet when they saw him emerge, some of them went back to their quarters and some of them crossed their arms defiantly as he walked by them. Rey kept hold of his arm and helped him to a log where he could sit down in the sun for a while.

"Everyone leave him alone, he's with me," Rey mentioned rather protectively.

"Obviously," Poe remarked sarcastically.

Kylo saw Poe walking by giving him a glare and heard his tone of sarcasm and said, "Look, I don't know why you and I are enemies, but it's not like I trust you either."

Poe took a seat next to Rey, but kept a bit of a distance from Kylo and replied, "So, here you are, the mighty Kylo Ren, Supreme Leader of the galaxy. You don't look as threatening without your light saber hitched to your side."

Rey was about to step in and tell Poe to stop taunting Kylo, but Kylo replied, "Look, I don't need my saber to shut you up, Dameron."

"Dameron? So, you do remember my name?"

"I just remembered something about you, yes, and I remembered that your name is Poe Dameron. Let me reiterate to you, I don't need a saber to silence you."

"Yep," Poe nodded, "Ren is definitely in there somewhere, even though he's forgotten a lot of stuff, he hasn't forgotten how to shut people up or give orders."

Chapter Text

Chapter 7:  The Finalizer Arrives At Ajan Kloss Looking For Kylo

Rey overheard what Poe had said to Kylo and she felt a mixture of feelings. She, of all people, knew very well what Kylo was capable of, his use of the Dark Side making him more aggressive by nature, his natural ability to command others, etc., but at the same time, she felt very deeply for him and a certain amount of defensiveness surged through her.

"Poe," she remarked as she took a seat next to Kylo, "Ben is trying to recover here. He doesn't remember much, and to me, he's doing pretty good so far at having patience with you."

"Patience with me?!" Poe asked with indignation, "he was the one who tortured me in an interrogation chair on Star Killer Base. If anything, I'm the one who is struggling to have patience with him, Rey. He may not remember any of those things, but I sure do."

Kylo was studying Poe's expression as he was listening to all of this and replied, "Dameron, I don't remember any of that. I must have had a good reason for what I did."

"Oh," Poe replied as he stood to his feet, "in your point of view, maybe, but you had Rey in that very same interrogation chair, Ren! You tortured me, had me beaten to a bloody pulp, but you were gentle and kind with Rey, which I'm glad about, but even then I knew you had a soft spot for her, but the rest of us you would have killed if given the chance!"

Rey stood to her feet and tried to calm the situation down, "Poe, look, he doesn't need this right now. Yes, he interrogated us both. He doesn't remember it. Can we let him heal now and focus on trying to protect Ajan Kloss?? Ben's flag ship is on it's way. All of our effort should be focused on that, not on personally attacking Ben over something he doesn't remember."

"Rey, you definitely have feelings for Ren. It's oozing out of you in droves," Poe paused, "don't you remember you're dealing with the Supreme Leader of a dictatorship here that is just as brutal as the Empire was?"

Rey blushed a bit as she glanced over at Kylo. Kylo was amused by Poe's accusation that Rey had feelings for him, but he chose to remain silent. He didn't want to embarrass Rey. Kylo didn't remember much, but he did remember his feelings for her. 

Rey sat next to Kylo and continued, "Poe, you all, as my friends, told me that you would to anything for me. Do you remember that? Well, I'm asking you now to respect my decision to help Ben recover and to protect him from being harmed by anyone here. There is far more going on behind the scenes than you are aware of. Ben has ideas in mind for government than the Empire ever did. What you don't know is that he offered for me to rule with him, to help him bring balance to the First Order, and to the Force, which is something the Empire never would have been open to," she paused and pointed directly at him, "now......, please go find Leia and make yourself useful in helping to keep our planetary shield grid up!"

Poe shook his head and then said, "Alright, I'll leave you two love birds alone," and then he walked off to go find Leia and see if he could make himself useful.

Now that Rey was seated alone with Kylo, she knew her face had flushed all shades of red. Kylo looked at her with affection and said, "If my memories return, I'll never forget how you defended me to your own people."

"If the circumstances were reversed, I imagine you'd do the same for me, right?" she asked.

For the first time since they'd touched hands during their Force Bond connection, Kylo reached for Rey's hand and gently took it into his own. He rubbed her fingers in his warm hand and looked her right in the eye and replied, "I would," he paused, still maintaining unbroken eye contact with her, "I may have forgotten a lot of things, but not my feelings for you. I wish you felt the same."

Rey swallowed hard while locking eyes with him in return, but Kylo noticed that she didn't try to recoil or pull her hand away from him. He didn't outright smile, but his eyes did as he gazed at her. Rey was finding if more and more difficult to let her emotions show for him, to let her heart finally let go and take his hand, but that decision would have to come later.

"I do care for you, Ben," she replied, dipping her head with flushed cheeks, then she looked up at him, "I didn't leave you in the throne room that day because I hated you."

Kylo leaned in closer and asked, "Is there a chance that I could still win your trust?"

Rey stayed silent for a few seconds, mesmerized and frozen in place as she gazed into his eyes, "Uh.... I guess there's that possibility."

Suddenly, Kaydel approached Rey and Kylo while they were talking, and she said, "Sorry to interrupt, Rey, but the Supreme Leader's flag ship will be in orbit in an hour. They are trying to make contact with us and insisting that we've kidnapped Ren. They are threatening that if we've harmed him in anyway, they will open fire on the base and land troops here."

Kylo stood to his feet, letting go of Rey's hand now, and replied, "I may not remember that I was the Supreme Leader, but I will order them to stand down and let them know that I am unharmed and am not a prisoner. Besides, according to my mother, the planetary shield will protect Ajan Kloss for two days' time, correct?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," Kaydel replied nervously, still not entirely trusting him.

"Fine. Leave it to me. I will order them to stand down. Rey has seen to it that I've been protected here in the midst of my enemies, I will likewise order my people to stand down so none of you are harmed. I was telling Rey that if my memories return, and I resume my duty as Supreme Leader, I will remember what the Resistance has done for me and have mercy on all of you," he paused and turned to Rey and continued, "now, if I could only convince Rey to join me, to rule at my side and be my Empress, she and I could bring balance to this galactic government."

Rey smiled a bit, stood to her feet, patted Kylo on the arm and replied, "That's a discussion for another day, Ben. Why don't we go to the command center and get you set up at a communications console so you can speak to your flag ship once it enters orbit?"

Kylo nodded and walked with Rey toward the main command center. Kylo hoped, if the planetary shield grid would hold for two whole days, that it would give him more time alone with Rey, time to try to win her heart and trust. He also hoped more of his memory would return and that when he went back to the Finalizer, he could remember who he was and how he ruled the galaxy!

***********************

General Hux knew that he would be at instant odds with General Pryde if he tried to usurp Kylo's place as Supreme Leader, but he wasn't through trying to formulate ways of taking power, if need be. He hadn't like Kylo at all, ever since he knew of Kylo's parentage and that his parents were renowned leaders of the Rebels during the days of the Empire. He had always resented Kylo and wished for his downfall. At one point, he even told a fellow officer that he wished Kylo Ren 'would lose'.

"Allegiant General," General Hux began, "the Finalizer will be dropping out of light speed within the next five minutes. I suggest we try contacting the Resistance base again. They have been ignoring us so far."

"They are trying to prepare for our arrival, which has been evidenced by the fact that our engineers have detected a defensive shield protecting the planet. Our intelligence was unaware that the Resistance had such technology,"he paused and paced for a few seconds and then said, "raise them again. Inform them that our engineers will work around the clock to break through that defensive shield of theirs unless they deliver our Supreme Leader to us in good health. Give them twelve hours. If we don't see or hear from our Supreme Leader by then, we will open fire against their shield grid with everything we have until we penetrate it," he ordered.

***************************

Kylo was seated at a communications console in the Resistance's main command center. Rey was seated next to him and was eager to see how he would handle the situation considering he didn't remember being Supreme Leader. 

"I hope you're convincing enough," Rey asked nervously, "we need your officers to believe you've retained your memory."

"I'll pull if off," Kylo replied, "all I have to do is be myself."

Poe overheard Kylo say this and he interjected sarcastically, "Yeah, the Dark Side flows naturally through this guy. He won't have any problem being an aggressive pain in the ass."

Kylo smirked and looked over at Poe and said, "If I get my memories back, I'm coming after you, Dameron," he said half joking, but showing his aggravation, then continued, "and for someone who does not use the Dark Side, you do a pretty good job of being a pain in the ass yourself."

"Alright, alright," Rey said as she lifted up her hand to stop the two of them, "Poe, quiet down now. Ben needs to order his officers to stand down. The COMM will be hot in just a few seconds."

Just then, Leia entered the command center and was standing opposite her son as he was about to make contact with a flag ship and officers he didn't even remember and she listened intently, hoping that he could make his officers believe he was fine and that his memory was still in tact.

Kaydel spoke up next saying, "General Organa, General Pryde is making contact with us. He's threatening that if he doesn't hear the Supreme Leader's voice, he'll open fire against our defense shield."

"Very well, patch General Pryde through to my son," Leia ordered.

Kylo took a deep breath and answered the COMM himself saying, "This is the Supreme Leader."

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde began, "are you alright, Sir? We looked for you on Mustafar and your ship was destroyed. We then traced a Resistance engine signature to this world. We know the Resistance is holding you hostage. Are you harmed?"

"General, I am not harmed. I am also not a prisoner here. I was found on Mustafar after my Silencer crash landed and brought back here for medical attention. You are to stand down. I am in no immediate danger of harm," Kylo ordered.

"Supreme Leader, the Resistance has some kind of planetary shield grid up. We cannot send a transport down to retrieve you. Are you able to convince them to lower the shield?" General Pryde asked.

"I have some business to tend to here for a day or so. I can't explain right now, but suffice it to say, you may remain in orbit until I order you to send a transport for me," Kylo paused. He was stalling for time, hoping that his memory would return. He didn't want to return to the Finalizer not knowing how to rule as Supreme Leader, then he continued, "I will contact you in twelve hours' time. Until then, you are not to open fire on this base. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader, however, I don't understand. What business could you possibly have with our enemies?" General Hux interjected, interrupting General Pryde.

Kylo spoke to General Hux now and said, "You are to follow my orders. Stand down. If you disobey this command, I will deal with you personally once I return. All you have to know for now is that I am unharmed. I owe no other explanation," he ordered firmly.

General Hux shook his head and stepped away from the communications console and let General Pryde take over.

"As you wish, Supreme Leader. I have briefings for you though, Sir. There are situations brewing in the Mid Rim that need your immediate attention."

Kylo didn't want to let General Pryde know that he had no memory of the problems taking place in the Mid Rim, so he played along anyway and replied, "I am aware of those problems, General. It can wait another few hours. In the meantime, you can send me an unclassified version of the report down here to the Resistance base and I will read it over and get back to you in twelve hours' time," he ordered.

"As you wish, Sir." General Pryde responded and then closed the COMM.

Rey breathed a sigh of relief, as did everyone on the base, however, Leia still had them keep the planetary defense shield up anyway.

************************

Later that evening, as the sun was setting on Ajan Kloss, most of the Resistance was settling in the for night, but feeling a bit nervous knowing the Finalizer was in orbit above them.  As the base got quiet and less busy, Kylo approached Rey as she was seated next to a fire outside the main command center and enjoying the evening.

"Rey," he began, "can you show me your training course? I'd like to take a walk with you."

Rey smiled slightly, "You would, huh?"

Kylo extended his hand to her, "Please? Just take a walk with me?"

"You're looking for an excuse to get me alone with you?" she asked.

"Guilty as charged," Kylo replied.

Rey looked around the base, just to be sure no one else saw she and Kylo alone together, and then put her hand into his and said, "Alright. Let's go."

They spent the next hour or so walking hand in hand through Rey's training course and enjoying privacy and the night air and night sounds. The romantic mood was getting to both of them. They took a seat on a log deep within the forest and got awkwardly quiet with one another for a few seconds before Rey broke the silence between them.

"You know, Ben, I avoided you for this past year for two reasons. You use the Dark Side of the Force and your rule a dictatorship, but now I'm finding it more and more difficult not to see more deeply into your heart, so see who you really are despite those things."

"Hmmm, it's obvious to me that when I asked you to join me a year ago that I was well aware that you used the Light Side of the Force," he paused and gazed directly into her eyes, "do you think you would ever reconsider my offer? I know it wouldn't be easy, but what if the visions the Force gave us are true?"

"Before I even consider such a thing, you have to get your memory back. Your own officers don't know that you don't remember being the Supreme Leader. Imagine me coming back with you to the Finalizer, if I did, and you didn't even remember how to rule? How would that go over?" Rey suggested.

"True," Kylo nodded, "do you think you could take the next few hours or couple of days to remind me?"

"Wow, that's a tall order," Rey shook her head, "but I can certainly try."

They both got quiet again and just couldn't look away from one another as Kylo continued, "I just can't deny that the Force destined us to be together, ruling and...," he paused, "possibly being so much more to one another."

Rey swallowed hard, took a deep breath and just stared back at him, waiting to see what would happen next. She felt nearly frozen.

Kylo leaned in closer and asked, "Will you let me kiss you?"

Rey took a deep, deep breath, smiled a small smile and replied, "Uh... yeah, okay..." rather shyly.

Kylo closed the very small distance between them and pressed his warm, plush lips to hers. She instinctively found herself running her hand up his arm and to his shoulder. Her other hand went to the side of his face as he pressed his lips to hers for what seemed like forever. She couldn't believe that just a few days ago he was her arch enemy and now here she was sharing a kiss with him!

*****************************

Chapter Text

Chapter: 8: Remembering and Eaves Dropping 

"Hmmm, it's obvious to me that when I asked you to join me a year ago that I was well aware that you used the Light Side of the Force," he paused and gazed directly into her eyes, "do you think you would ever reconsider my offer? I know it wouldn't be easy, but what if the visions the Force gave us are true?"

"Before I even consider such a thing, you have to get your memory back. Your own officers don't know that you don't remember being the Supreme Leader. Imagine me coming back with you to the Finalizer, if I did, and you didn't even remember how to rule? How would that go over?" Rey suggested.

"True," Kylo nodded, "do you think you could take the next few hours or couple of days to remind me?"

"Wow, that's a tall order," Rey shook her head, "but I can certainly try."

They both got quiet again and just couldn't look away from one another as Kylo continued, "I just can't deny that the Force destined us to be together, ruling and...," he paused, "possibly being so much more to one another."

Rey swallowed hard, took a deep breath and just stared back at him, waiting to see what would happen next. She felt nearly frozen.

Kylo leaned in closer and asked, "Will you let me kiss you?"

Rey took a deep, deep breath, smiled a small smile and replied, "Uh... yeah, okay..." rather shyly.

Kylo closed the very small distance between them and pressed his warm, plush lips to hers. She instinctively found herself running her hand up his arm and to his shoulder. Her other hand went to the side of his face as he pressed his lips to hers for what seemed like forever. She couldn't believe that just a few days ago he was her arch enemy and now here she was sharing a kiss with him!

For a few seconds, Rey lost all all sense of time, obligation and rationality. All that seemed to matter was this warm, intimate kiss they were sharing. As they were sitting alone, trying to enjoy their privacy, Poe, Finn and Rose happened to be walking along a trail that was leading away from the main base and directly to where Rey and Kylo were sharing their intimate moment.

Neither Kylo nor Rey detected them, at the moment, due to being wrapped up in one another, however, Poe, Finn and Rose were caught off-guard by what they were witnessing. Poe ducked behind some of the trees and foliage in the area and roughly pulled Finn down beside him, urging him to hide himself as they witnessed Kylo and Rey's kiss.

"Sit here next to me!," Poe paused ,"get down!" he grunted.

Rose rolled her eyes and knelt down beside Poe and Finn and said, "Ummm, have you guys ever heard the term, "peeping Tom?," she paused, "this is none of our business."

Poe regarded Rose with a shocked look of agitation on his face, "None of our business? Rose, this man is the ruler of the galaxy. Need I remind you he uses the Dark Side, and rules the very regime we're at war with?" Poe insisted.

Finn rolled his eyes in aggravation too at the sight of seeing Rey kissing Kylo. Rose responded, "Look, all I know is that I trust Rey. She would never betray us or allow herself into a compromising situation that would put us at risk," she paused and ran her hand through her hair, "I don't know," she paused as she resumed witnessing Kylo and Rey's intimate kiss, then continued, "I can't pretend to understand what it is that she sees in him, but the heart wants what it wants! Is it truly any of our business who Rey loves?"

"Uh...," Poe looked over at her with irritation, "uh, yeah, Rose, it is our business, especially when it might risk the security of our base here on Ajan Kloss," he paused, "besides, Ren's flag ship is in orbit right as we speak, demanding we return him to them."

Rose replied, "Yes, I'm aware, Poe," she paused, "and Ren has ordered his forces to stand down and not attack us. He needs a few more hours with Rey to remember who he is," she paused yet again, "what if Rey can help him? What if Rey comes up with a solution of compromise for all involved?"

"Rose," Finn continued, "you are always optimistic, aren't you? Do you suppose that Rey is so influential that she could change the First Order, or even Ren for that matter, for the good of all of us?"

"I don't have all the answers to that," Rose replied, "but what I do know are two things right now: First of all, we are spying on an intimate and private moment between Rey and Kylo. Secondly, Rey is powerful with the Force and would not allow herself to be compromised to the point that we, her friends, and this base, would be put in danger. I have faith in her," she paused, "we need to go. This is their private moment, no matter how hard it may be for us to witness this. But Rey's personal romance is none of our business, let's go," Rose insisted.

"Personal romance...," Poe replied with annoyance, "with Ren?"

"Look," Finn continued, "it isn't our business. I don't like what I'm seeing anymore than you do, but we need to go. We need to report back to Leia and get an update on the Finalizer's orbit around this planet and make sure our defense shield remains active."

Poe and Rose nodded in agreement with Poe, albeit with annoyance and a bit of confusion based on the romance that was obviously beginning to take over between Rey and Kylo, but they listened to Finn's advice and stood to take their leave of the area, but as they were, Kylo and Rey sensed them there in the vicinity.

"Do you sense something?" Rey asked as she pulled back from their kiss.

Kylo looked around to see if he could make a 'visual' of anyone in the area, "I sense it too. I have a feeling we're not alone."

Rey stood to her feet, still feeling a bit flustered with the kiss she'd just shared with Kylo, but wanting to know who was in the area. She looked around for a bit, but eventually realized that whoever was there had left the area.

Kylo stood to his feet and was flustered, obviously feeling emotionally overwhelmed with the kiss, the intimate moment he'd just shared with Rey and looked at her with affection. Rey looked over at him after trying her best to survey the area around them for any intruders.

"Are you alright?" Rey asked.

Kylo huffed a few deep breaths, moved closer to Rey and put his hands on her waist and replied, "No."

"No?" Rey asked with a raised eyebrow.

"No. There's something the Force is doing between the two of us. I'm also feeling pressured to remember my role as Supreme Leader and ruler of this galaxy," he paused and paced for a few seconds, "if I have a galaxy to rule, I'm neglecting my duties."

"It's not your fault," Rey began as she put her hand on his arm, "you can't be blamed. I'll help you remember."

Kylo nodded and just stood there looking at Rey as if she had all the answers he needed, then he continued, "Rey, I loved the kiss we just shared. I will never shake it from my mind, but if I am truly the leader of this galaxy and have no memory of it, what will happen if I return to my flag ship and don't remember anything?"

"Look," Rey began, stroking his arm gently, "sit down beside me."

Kylo gave her a confused glance, "Okay?"

"Trust me," she replied.

Kylo took a seat next to her. Rey took her hand and she continued, "I am going to use the Force to show you some memories of who you are. Some of these memories will be difficult for you to accept. I am going to show you our past, between you and myself, and who you are right now as Supreme Leader of the First Order and ruler of this galaxy," she paused, "give me your hand and close your eyes."

Kylo hesitantly put his hand in hers and replied, "You can do this?"

Rey huffed a chuckle, "I'm as powerful as you are with the Force," she paused, giving him a playful look of reprimand, "trust me," she continued as she held her hand out to him.

Kylo smiled and placed his hand into hers. As he did, Rey took hold of Kylo's hand and closed her eyes and said out loud, "Close your eyes."

Kylo closed his eyes in response to Rey's suggestion.  Suddenly, as Kylo took Rey's hand, images began to flash through his mind. Images of his role as Supreme Leader of the galaxy. This exchange in the Force between them took place for at least another few moments. Kylo sat mesmerized by what he was he was seeing. 

During the course of exchange that Rey was giving Kylo through her power with the Force, Kylo saw images of him extending his hand to Rey while he was on board the Supremacy. He opened his eyes, remembering fully now his invitation for her to join him. 

Rey opened her eyes and looked at Kylo for any evidence that he had understood what he'd just seen through her transfer to him of her knowledge of his position. Kylo's eyes were wider.

"Rey, I understand," Kylo said softly.

"You do?" she asked.

"I do," Kylo paused, "however, the offer I made you to join me, to balance the Force and the government of this galaxy, you've yet to give me a direct answer."

"Kylo," Rey continued, "do you understand your role and who you really are now?"

Kylo nodded slowly, "I do."

Rey sighed. She looked at him intently waiting for his next few words.

"I need to return to my flag ship," Kylo replied. I don't know what business I have with the Mid Rim, but I will search through my personal logs. I know I can access them through my personal quarters on board my ship," he paused, "will you accept my offer? In the visions you transferred to me, I remember standing on the Supremacy now, offering you my hand, offering you a chance to join me and bring balance," he paused, "will you come back with me to my ship if I choose to return?"

Rey sighed. She sat looking at him with such a mixture of affection, love and confusion all at the same time. 

"I know I owe you a response," she paused, especially after what we just shared this afternoon."

The Force released them and they were now standing face-to-face with one another. Kylo placed his hands gently on Rey's waist, his lips were hovering over hers so closely. He spoke with that smooth and deep, sultry voice of his replying, "I can do this, but I want to do this with you."

Rey sighed. She stood in front of him, trying to gather all of the myriad of emotions that were running through her and replied, "If I do come back with you, I'm going to be possibly misunderstood by my friends here on this base."

"Rey, don't you feel what the Force is trying to do? What if the Force arranged all of this between us for a reason?" Kylo asked.

Rey pursed her lips, nodded with a slight look of melancholy in her eyes, "Contact your ship, the Finalizer. I will help you."

Chapter Text

Chapter 9:  The Supreme Leader Returns To the Finalizer

"I will help you," Rey replied as she looked at Kylo intently, but with a mixture of affection and bliss from their prior shared kiss.

Kylo nodded with a hint of a deep sigh in his tone, "Thank you, Rey."

Rey stood to her feet, "I have to speak with your mother. She has to be briefed on our plan. There's too much at stake for me to just return with you and not inform her of what's going on," she paused, "all of it."

"I see," Kylo nodded, "thank you for helping me understand more deeply who I am," he paused, paced for a few seconds and then looked up at her and continued, "I now understand who I am thanks to you."

Rey nodded to him, locked eyes with him for a few seconds, then replied, "Let's go," she paused and halted in place for a few seconds, "and," she looked him directly in the eyes, "to answer your previous question, no, I can't deny what the Force is doing between us."

"Both politically and romantically?" Kylo asked.

Rey knew he face flushed red. She tried her hardest to suppress her emotional response, but it was no use, "Yes, to both."

Kylo's eyes lightened with hope and affection as he gazed at her. He extended his hand to her and said, "Alright, let's find my mother. I only hope when you return with me to my flag ship that I can convince my officers that I remember everything. Thanks to you, I remember most of what I need to know, but.....," he stopped.

Rey gripped his hand as they walked along, "I will help you, remember?" she replied affectionately, "you'll do fine."

*************************

Both Kylo and Rey found Leia as she was sitting at a console in the main Resistance operation center. She was monitoring the Finalizer's orbit around Ajan Kloss intently. Leia looked up and saw her son and Rey walking into the command center, hand-in-hand and was a bit caught off guard by the 'closeness' they seemed to exhibit right now. 

Leia stood to her feet and said, "You two look rather," she paused and looked them over, "comfortable with one another?"

Rey blushed again and Kylo nodded, "Mother, Rey and I have something to discuss with you," he paused and looked at Rey and continued, "and it's more than just politics we have to discuss with you."

Rey slowly let go of Kylo's hand and spoke to Leia saying, "Leia, we both came here today to discuss something with you that we know won't be easy to hear, but it must be said," she began as she motioned for Kylo to take a seat next to she and Leia, then she continued, "Ben and I," she looked at Kylo for a moment, "well, he now remembers who he is. He knows he's Supreme Leader of the galaxy and...." she paused, a hint of a blush crossing her face.

Leia finished Rey's sentence and said, "Let me guess," she said standing to her feet and giving her son and Rey a curious stare, "you both are 'involved'?"

Rey looked over at Kylo and Kylo looked directly at her. He took a deep breath and answered his mother saying, "Mother, we are exploring that aspect of our relationship, yes, but there's also political matters we need to discuss with you. I care for Rey, very much, and through her power with the Force, she helped me not only remember my love, affection and offer for her to join me, but she used the Force to help me remember who I am. I'm ruler of this galaxy."

"Yes," Leia continued, "you are, Ben," Leia paced and then looked at her son with a very stern glance as she continued, "you are also dictator of a regime that the Resistance has fought for decades to suppress. How can I reconcile letting you go back to that life, Ben? While I'd never deny you and Rey happiness with one another, if this is the case, I just don't understand how life would be if you regain all of your memories, return to the Finalizer, and then...," she stopped.

"Mother," Kylo stood to his feet, "I want to bring balance to the Force," he paused, looking directly at Rey, "I will always believe in the politics I adhere to, however with Rey ruling at my side, there would be balance in politics and in the Force. She and I would ensure this. I would also ensure that my forces would not attack the Resistance. She and I would build a new government for the galaxy."

"Leia," Rey continued as she put her hand on Leia's arm gently, "he and I would gradually bring changes together. He now remembers most of what he needs to remember to rule this galaxy. If he doesn't return to his ship and continue to rule, there will be a 'power vacuum' soon. What if some of his officers in the First Order take over if they find out he temporarily lost his memory and things get worse for the galaxy? Ben and I can return together to his ship and begin to rule together and bring the balance the Force wants."

"Rey," Leia replied, "how can you be so certain things will follow through as you've suggested?"

"I've seen it," Rey replied, "Ben and I form a Dyad in the Force, something that has not been seen for generations. He and I are called by the Force to do this. You have to trust us."

Leia looked over at her son and continued, "Ben, you would continue to rule as a dictator?"

"Yes," Kylo replied, "I would. It's who I am. I'm not going to stop using the Dark Side, just as you cannot stop using the Light, however, with Rey at my side, politics would be more balanced. She would rule at my side as Empress of the galaxy."

"Empress?" Leia looked at Rey with raised eyebrows.

Rey smiled, looking back and forth between Kylo and Leia, "Apparently so," she paused, "but, Ben and I would not change one another. We'd simply blend, compromise. The Force is 'one', Leia, and he and I know we are called by the Force to live and rule as such together."

"Yes," Leia began with a sigh, "the Force is 'one', but I have never accepted the Dark Side."

"I know," Rey continued, "but I'm asking you to trust what Ben and I are proposing. We will both rule with justice and law for the galaxy. It will be a dictatorship, but with balance with me at his side."

Leia looked over at her son wit a bit of doubt, but continued, "Ben?"

Kylo nodded, "Yes, Mother, what she is saying is correct. I don't remember one hundred percent of everything yet, but thanks to her use of the Force, I remember enough to return with her to my ship and pick up where I left off, and rule this galaxy once again. What Rey is saying can be trusted."

"I could have gone back with Ben to his ship, Leia, without your permission, or guidance, but I respect you. I respect all you've done to take me in this past year and didn't want to return with Ben to the Finalizer without expressing all of this to you. I owe you as much," Rey said.

Leia reached for Rey and put her hand on her shoulder with an affectionate smile, "Alright, Rey. You have my blessing," she paused and looked at her son, "but you, Ben, better hold to your word and not let your flag ship, or any other part of the First Order, attack this base?"

"You have my word. They will obey my orders," Kylo said emphatically, "as you know, I've already ordered them to stand down and not attack."

Leia gave Rey a hug, and as she did, Chewbacca came walking into the main command center. Kylo looked over at Chewie and the two of them exchanged dubious glances. Each of them not sure how to perceiv e the other right at this second. Unbeknownst to Leia, Rey and Kylo, Chewie had been standing there listening to the conversation off to the side, hidden from sight. 

Kylo stood still as Chewie walked up to him and spoke in his own language. Kylo, of course, understood. Chewie placed his hand on Kylo's arm and told him he'd step out in trust that he and Rey would follow through with their promise.

"Thank you for trusting me, Chewie," Kylo replied.

Immediately, Chewie through his thick and hairy arms around Kylo, and pulled him close in much the same way he used to do to Han!

Kylo chuckled for a moment and said, "Alright, alright," he paused, "I have to go now, Chewie. Thanks."

Leia smiled as Chewie backed off and released Kylo from his tight embrace. Leia continued, "Now, Ben, where do you want to go from here?"

Kylo took a deep breath and replied, "I need access to the COMM system here. I will contact my ship, order them to send down the Command Shuttle here to Ajan Kloss to pick me up, then we will depart orbit."

"Your Command Shuttle would be coming down here?" Leia asked with her arms crossed and with a certain look of anxiety.

"Yes," Kylo replied, "I will get back into uniform, and as they land here on the surface, they will not suspect anything has happened to my memory. As I said, thanks to Rey, I remember most of what I forgot, however, I can pull off what I need to from here. They will not challenge me or my orders. I will not permit them to attack you. I will also inform them that Rey is returning with me. We will leave Ajan Kloss in peace. You have my word," he replied.

Leia opened her arms to her son and said, "Alright. I will trust this."

Kylo let Leia hold him for a few seconds, something he had not experienced in so long. After they shared a brief embrace, Leia released him and continued, "Go ahead and get in uniform. I will give you access to our control panel again so you can contact the Finalizer."

Kylo nodded to her with a hint of a small smile. He glanced at Rey and then replied, "I'll be back. Got to get back in uniform."

Rey smiled at Kylo, nodded and replied, "You do that. I'm waiting right here to go with you once your Command Shuttle lands here."

Kylo left the Command Center, and after about five minutes, was dressed in full uniform with his light saber hooked to his side. As members of the Resistance saw him come walking back toward the Command Center, their initial reaction was one of fear and apprehension. He looked exactly as he did before he'd lost his memory. Kylo raised his hand and spoke to them.

"You have nothing to fear," as he took a seat at the COMM console and continued, "I will not allow my forces to attack."

The Resistance members in the Command Center were doubtful, but chose to obey Leia's orders to stand back and let Kylo use the COMM console to contact his flag ship.

Within a few seconds of Kylo opening communications with the Finalizer's bridge, General Pryde answered.

"General Pryde here."

"General Pryde," Kylo began, "this is the Supreme Leader. The Resistance is going to lower the planetary defense shield at this time. You are to send my Command Shuttle down to the surface at once for me. As you descend to the surface, you are not to take any hostile action. If anyone on the Command Shuttle, or the Finalizer, attempts to attack Ajan Kloss once the planetary shield is lowered, they will answer directly to me with their lives. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader. I understand. I will have the Command Shuttle launched immediately to retrieve you," General Pryde replied.

Kylo continued, "General, one more thing. I am not returning to the ship alone. I am bringing with me the Jedi from the Resistance. She is not coming back with us as a prisoner. I will explain more once I return on board. You have your orders."

General Pryde was indeed confused by this, but he didn't dare question Kylo's orders, "Yes, Supreme Leader."

Within about fifteen minutes, Kylo's Command Shuttle could be seen descending down through the atmosphere of Ajan Kloss to pick Kylo up. Rey was at his side as well.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10:  Kylo Returns To the Finalizer With Rey

"Oh, dear oh dear," C3PO began as he approached Kylo while they were all watching the Command Shuttle make it's descent through the atmosphere, "Master Ben, it was good seeing you, but.....," he paused awkwardly, "please tell us that your shuttle means us no harm?"

Rey chuckled and put her hand on C3PO's arm, "3PO, it's fine."

Kylo managed the slightest smile as he looked at C3PO and replied, "You have my word, 3PO," he paused, "I want you to know something before I depart with Rey to my flag ship. I remember that my grandfather, Vader, created you. That will always mean something to me."

Rey's mouth opened wide, "Ben? You remember that? That means more of your memories are returning?" she asked with joy.

Kylo nodded, "I don't know how it's possible, but yes, I do remember that my grandfather created 3PO."

Poe put his hands on his hips and looked from the descending Command Shuttle and then back to Kylo and commented, "Look, Ren, we are all trusting you that you will keep your word and not allow any of your forces to do us harm here."

"My word is trustworthy. What Rey and I will accomplish for this galaxy will be proven to you. It may take time for she and I to work with my politics in the First Order, but it will be done. You are in no danger of attack today. I will deal with anyone who even attempts show show signs of aggression," Kylo replied seriously.

"You can trust him, Poe," Rey began, "I would know if he was lying to us."

Poe nodded slowly to Rey as he kept a keen eye on the First Order Command shuttle landing. Leia walked up beside where everyone was standing and kept a serious and keen eye on the ramp of the shuttle as it lowered, and as it did, General Pryde came walking down the ramp, along with Lieutenant Mitaka. 

Rey's heart skipped a beat. This was the first time she'd be accompanying Kylo to the Finalizer and be surrounded by the First Order. She was also worried whether or not he'd remember his officers and the normal routine procedures he expected from them as Supreme Leader.

General Pryde and Lieutenant Mitaka took up positions just outside the Command Shuttle as several Storm Troopers lined either side of the ramp in formation, which was standard operations.

"Ben," Leia whispered, "I never thought I'd hear myself say this, but may the Force be with you as you return to rule the galaxy with Rey."

Kylo nodded to his mother, glanced over at his troops, General Pryde and Lieutenant Mitaka for a few seconds, then back at his mother and replied, "I believe the Force will be with Rey and I," he paused, "thanks, mother. I will be in contact with you in the near future. Thank you for taking care of me while my memory was lacking these past few days," he paused and looked at the Resistance for a few seconds and nodded, "you all received me at first with fear, but took no hostile actions against me. I will remember this."

Leia smiled at her son and nodded to him. Just then, General Pryde started walking toward Leia and Kylo. He stopped a few paces in front of where they stood and said, "Supreme Leader," with a respectful nod, "it is good to see that you are well and that the Resistance did not harm you. I will have a briefing for you to look over as we make our way back to the ship."

"Very good," Kylo replied, "Miss Rey here is accompanying us. Remember my orders? No one is to make any aggressive moves toward her?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader. I have relayed your orders to our officers and troops on board the ship," General Pryde replied and the he turned to Leia and continued, "so, the famous General of the Resistance stands before me. I'm surprised you didn't harm our Supreme Leader."

Kylo cleared his throat and shot General Pryde a stern glance. General Pryde immediately took note and stood silently.

Leia replied, "He may be YOUR Supreme Leader, but he's my son. Regardless of what our political differences have been, I would never harm my own son, General Pryde."

General Pryde kept a stern look on his face as he nodded back to Leia, then looked at Kylo and continued, "Sir, we await your orders about the Mid Rim also. There is trouble brewing there that needs your immediate intervention."

"I realize this," Kylo began, "however, I do not intend to deal with this until tomorrow. We will have a meeting to discuss it. Until then, we will send several destroyers to the Mid Rim to keep the peace until the issue is dealt with," he continued, hoping to put off the finer details until the following day after he had read the briefing and tried to 'jar' his memory a bit more about the trouble there.

Leia knew her son was making some of this up as he went along and felt he was doing a pretty good job at it too.

Kylo extended his arm to Rey and said, "Ready? Come with me."

Rey tried not to smile or blush as she slid her arm through Kylo's arm. Poe, Finn, Rose, Chewie and all the Resistance standing there could hardly believe what they were witnessing, but it was true. Rey was returning with Kylo to be Empress of the entire galaxy.

"Let's go, General," Kylo said to General Pryde.

Kylo made one final glance back at his mother. She nodded back, and as she did, she had a look of affection in her eyes that Kylo could see quite clearly. Though he kept his emotions under control since he was surrounded by his officers and troops, the look he returned to his mother was equally as affectionate. Leia was beginning to believe she could trust him now.

Everyone stood watching as Kylo and Rey were the first to board the Command Shuttle, followed by the storm troopers and his officers. Poe, Finn and Rose were feeling an almost disbelief as they watched. 

Poe leaned over to Finn and remarked, "So, it looks like the First Order is leaving Ajan Kloss peacefully? I can't believe this."

Finn sighed and crossed his arms, "Yeah, looks that way. Never thought I'd see the day."

Leia spoke up and said, "It could be true that the Force has an entirely new destiny planned for this galaxy through my son and Rey. I am in near disbelief myself, but I trust my son, after all of these years, I actually trust him."

******************************

The Resistance watched as the Command Shuttle lifted up and through the atmosphere, and within a few seconds, had disappeared behind some clouds. It didn't take long before the Command Shuttle was in orbit around Ajan Kloss and soon to dock with the Finalizer's hangar bay.

As Rey sat beside Kylo on the shuttle, she felt out of place and awkward, but not fearful. She knew it would take time for her to adjust, but it would take time for her to feel as if a new life with Kylo and the First Order seemed natural. There was so much to be done and she still knew her role in helping her former enemy remember who HE was as Supreme Leader was still a task ahead as well!

*******************

After the Command Shuttle landed in the Finalizer's hangar bay, General Pryde handed Kylo a data pad with a briefing regarding the Mid Rim situation.

"I will look this over in my quarters this evening," Kylo replied, "see to it that a meeting is scheduled for tomorrow at thirteen hundred hours," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader."

Kylo kept his arm extended for Rey, and she slid her arm through his once more as the descended down from the shuttle. 

Rey leaned in close to Kylo and whispered to him as they walked across the hangar bay, "Do you even remember where your quarters are?"

Kylo gave her a glance that showed both amusement and concern, "I sure hope so," he replied with a sigh.

Rey tried not to show amusement at his reply, but kept a straight face as Kylo led them both out of the hangar bay and straight for a turbo lift.

Once the turbo lift doors closed behind them Kylo let out a deep breath, "I meant what I said back there," he paused, "I hope I can remember my way to my personal living quarters."

"Are you serious?" Rey asked with a slight look of concern on her face.

Kylo extended both of his hands outward, motioning for Rey to take his gloved hands. She did and grasped both of his hands as he replied, "I'm only kidding with you. Surprisingly, I do remember where I live on board this ship," he paused as he gently pulled her closer, "do you feel comfortable staying with me or would you like your own quarters?"

Kylo's lips were literally hovering over hers as he asked this. She locked eyes with him and replied, "Do you honestly think I want to be alone, even in my own quarters, while I'm surrounded by First Order officers who probably still hate me right now?"

"So, you're saying you want to stay with me in my quarters?" he asked rather seductively.

All Rey could do was nod nearly breathlessly as she continued to keep her eyes locked with Kylo's. Kylo knew she was saying 'yes' to him.

He leaned in and closed the very short distance between then and placed his warm, full lips on hers. She gripped his gloved hands so tightly as he kissed her. Her head was spinning and her heart beat quickly. A warmth surged through her at the prospect of what was happening between them......, and this was just the beginning.

Kylo slowly pulled back from their kiss and continued, "You rescued me from Mustafar and I would not have been able to come this far if it hadn't been for you."

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: General Hux Suspects Something Is Different About Kylo

Kylo slowly pulled back from their kiss and continued, "You rescued me from Mustafar and I would not have been able to come this far if it hadn't been for you."

Rey's eyes were fixed on his as she replied softly, "I'm glad I could help, but we are doing this together," she paused and closed her eyes for a few seconds, then continued, "Ben, I have a confession to make."

"Yes?" he replied as he stroked the side of her face waiting for her statement.

"I," she hesitated, "well, it's going to take me some time to adjust to all of this. Ajan Kloss has been my home for a year now. Also, everything that's beginning to take place between you and I is new to me."

Kylo nodded in understanding and compassion. Thankfully the turbo lift was still moving and gave them a few more seconds in privacy to talk before the doors slid open and revealed them to the public again.

"I understand. When I was down on Ajan Kloss, among the Resistance, I felt out of place and surrounded by people who didn't know or trust me. I know how you're feeling right now," he paused, "but as far as the feelings that are between you and I, I think you'd admit that these feelings between us are not new and have been growing intense over this past year, whether either of us admitted to it openly or not. The situation you are in may be unfamiliar and awkward, but can you honestly tell me that you haven't felt the emotional and romantic bond between us strengthening over this past year? For me it's not new," he replied.

"You're right. My circumstances are awkward now, but my feelings for you have been there, suppressed and repressed due to us being on opposite sides of things, but they have been there nonetheless," she admitted.

Kylo leaned in once more and placed a soft kiss on her lips and then, just in time, before the turbo lift doors slid open, he extended his arm to her, "Let's get to my quarters."

Rey chuckled under her breath and replied, "I'm glad you remember where they are. You had me worried for a bit back in the hangar bay when you teased me that you may not remember where you live on this ship, because I certainly wouldn't have been able to help you with that one," she smiled.

"I can have a sense of humor sometimes," Kylo answered with an amused glance her way.

"Sometimes," she paused, "it's not often enough, but I'll take it when I can get it," she teased.

Kylo scoffed with a smile and then the turbo lift doors opened. As they stepped out into the corridor, Rey saw the myriads of troops and officers, all hurrying on their way as they performed their duties. She kept her arm through Kylo's as they made the few final steps to his personal quarters.

**********************

"Supreme Leader," a special forces trooper nodded to him as he walked up to the door of his quarters.

"You are dismissed," Kylo ordered plainly.

The special forces trooper hesitated for a second, feeling confused because this was his usual post, but he eventually nodded to Kylo replying, "Yes, Sir, as you wish," and then walked away.

Kylo looked at Rey as he placed his palm on the scanner to open the door and said softly, "I have to look over this briefing and discuss private matters with you regarding my duties, and might need your help remembering certain things, and don't want an armed guard outside my door while I'm trying to recollect everything."

"Agreed, the last thing you need is to be overheard trying to remember who you are and what your duties are. That could easily get reported to your top generals," Rey nodded.

Kylo and Rey walked into Kylo's quarters and were relieved when the door slid closed behind them.

"Lights," Kylo spoke out loud to an AI computer system that responded to voice commands in the room. 

As the lights came on, Rey looked around for a few seconds in awe. Kylo's quarters were nothing short of impressive, both in space, decor and high technology.

Kylo removed his cape and gloves, setting them down on a table a few paces from the door. He strode slowly across the room and sighed, "So, back home."

"Are you alright?" Rey asked as she crossed her arms over her chest observing him closely.

Kylo looked at her with a bit of concern and replied, "I hope so. Thanks to you, I remember most of my role here, but there are still some 'blanks' that need to be filled in," he paused, "for starters, I have to look over this data pad's briefing on the Mid Rim. I don't even remember all of the trouble that's brewing there and I'm supposed to lead a Council meeting tomorrow at thirteen hundred hours about it."

"I admit I've never seen you so unsure of yourself or what to do," Rey sighed as she walked across the room and placed her hand on his arm, "but we'll read the briefing together and figure it out. The Force will help us."

Kylo was gazing deeply and pensively at Rey as she continued, "I'll help you through this," she paused, "now, I need a shower, a change of clothes, and then something to eat. I can't help you read over this data pad briefing on an empty stomach," she teased.

Kylo huffed a chuckle, "I'll order us some food," he paused, "then we have to decide on sleeping arrangements for later," he replied as he cast her a more serious glance, but mixed with hope and tenderness.

Rey swallowed deeply, "Uh, yeah.... I knew that topic might come up," she sighed with an awkward smile. 

Rey knew she and Kylo were falling more in love by the day, and that eventually the topic of physical intimacy would come up between them, but she couldn't help but feel a rush of heat surge through her, both with a touch of shyness and a touch of anticipation at the idea.

Kylo held her gaze rather seductively for a few seconds and then, before he went to the COMM to order a meal for them, he replied, "No pressure, Rey. I want to share everything with you. I'm in love with you, but I won't pressure you for more than you're ready for. I'm just glad you're here with me."

"I understand," she swallowed hard, "well," she paused awkwardly, "point me in the direction of the nearest Fresher and change of clothes. I'll be expecting that hot meal when I come back out here," she teased him.

Kylo smiled with a chuckle and led her to his bedroom, pulled out a shirt of his, some soft pants and then led her to a Fresher near the sitting area that she could use. Once he knew Rey was busy with showering, he went to the COMM to order a meal to be sent up to his quarters.

*************************

Meanwhile, on the bridge, General Hux was performing his usual duties as he witnessed General Pryde come walking into view. 

"Well," General Hux began as he put his hands behind his back as General Pryde made his way over to him, "how is the Supreme Leader? I hear we have the Jedi from the Resistance with us now? I don't like it."

General Pryde took a deep breath, "I don't like it either, but I'm loyal to the Supreme Leader and will obey his orders."

"We had the Resistance within our clutches," General Hux began, "we could have destroyed their base today, but the Supreme Leader stopped us. Something about this doesn't feel right to me."

"I know," General Pryde replied, "however, I wouldn't recommend challenging him on this."

"Don't you see? Something isn't adding up?" General Hux continued, "first he tells us to stand down and do no harm to the Resistance base, which we could have wiped out easily from orbit today, then he brings the Jedi back with him? What's wrong with this scenario?"

"I don't know, but as I said, do not challenge the Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded.

"Ever since he was found on Mustafar by that Jedi and taken back to the Resistance base, something about him seems 'off'. I am suspicious that the Supreme Leader's ideas and plans could have changed, not only toward the Resistance, but what if he is politically unsound as well now?" Hux asked.

"The Supreme Leader is not going to compromise our politics. Apparently he is going to work with the Jedi to continue our politics. He informed as we were flying back to the ship that the First Order will be as it always has been, but that the Force will be doing something new. Our politics won't change that drastically," General Pryde paused, "are you really willing to challenge the Supreme Leader on this? He could kill you without laying a hand on you if you fight him or debate with him."

General Hux put his hands behind his back and sighed, "I know, but something just doesn't 'feel right', and I intend to look more into it."

General Pryde shook his head at General Hux and then walked off to perform his own duties on the bridge, but before he walked too far away from General Hux, he continued, "By the way, the Supreme Leader wants a Supreme Council meeting scheduled for thirteen hundred hours tomorrow to discuss the Mid Rim situation. See to it."

"Yes, that Mid Rim, that too concerns me," General Hux paused, "normally the Supreme Leader would have gotten right on it. Sending a few destroyers there to 'keep the peace' is hardly what we need right now. I'm telling you, something isn't right."

"Just do as the Supreme Leader ordered. Send at least five destroyers there as he ordered for now. We'll get more information at tomorrow's meeting," he ordered.

General Hux nodded at General Pryde and walked off to see to scheduling the meeting and spoke with the commanders of five destroyers to head to the Mid Rim as Kylo had ordered.

************************

After Kylo and Rey had enjoyed their meal and were showered for the night, Rey sat comfortably next to Kylo as she helped him look over the data pad and the information contained in it regarding the Mid Rim. Kylo put his arm around her and held her close as they read over it together.

"Thanks, Rey, for everything," he said softly to her.

"You're welcome," she paused, "you'll get through this meeting tomorrow. By the looks of this report, there could be an interplanetary war brewing between a few worlds there over trade. You need to devise a solution by tomorrow's meeting."

"Yes," Kylo paused, "I've already got an idea."

Chapter Text

Chapter 12:  The Beginning of Collaboration and Sexual Tension

"You're welcome," she paused, "you'll get through this meeting tomorrow. By the looks of this report, there could be an interplanetary war brewing between a few worlds there over trade. You need to devise a solution by tomorrow's meeting."

"Yes," Kylo paused, "I've already got an idea."

Rey was sitting comfortably in Kylo's embrace as they looked over the data pad together and replied, "Hmmm, so quickly?"

Kylo nodded quietly, and pensively for a few seconds and replied, "Yes," he paused and looked straight at her as if he'd had the idea of the century, "you know how, with your help, I'm still trying to regain all of my memories? Well, what better way to help me deal with this Mid Rim situation than to enlist the help of the Resistance with the Mid Rim? The Resistance, and my mother, have surely obtained their own intelligence about the situation about possible interplanetary war," he paused again, "one of the ways we could begin to bring balance to galactic politics, while still maintaining the First Order's rule over the galaxy, would be to enlist their aid in the situation. If I speak to my mother first thing in the morning, on an encrypted COMM channel from my quarters, and combine her intelligence on the situation, along with the briefing on this data pad, the Supreme Council meeting should go fine tomorrow afternoon?"

Rey sat forward, regarding Kylo with awe and felt a bit impressed, "Wow, Ben, that's an amazing idea," she pursed her lips with a slight smile, "I'd say you do have a plan there. Very good. I like it," she replied, placing her hand into his.

Kylo nodded with a warm smile as he looked down at her hand sitting so gently inside his. He looked back up at her and answered, "I'm glad you like it."

The look in Kylo's eyes were affectionate, warm, but deeply penetrating her gaze, a gaze that was still unbroken between them. Rey took a deep breath and her smile turned into a more serious and affectionate gaze of her own as she held eye contact with him.

"Rey," Kylo swallowed hard as he softly whispered her name.

Rey felt herself reacting physically to Kylo's gaze as his hand touched hers. She'd never been sexually intimate with anyone before, and sitting here with her former enemy feeling the sexual tension between them, was something she never would have believed, even if someone had told her, but....., here she was, feeling her heart rate rise, her body go flush with heat, and her eyes roam to his lips as he held her gaze.

"Ben," she replied as she looked from his lips to his eyes again.

Kylo closed his eyes for a second, took a deep breath and continued, "I want you," he opened his eyes again, "but I don't want to put you in an awkward situation," he said as he let go of her hand and stood to his feet and walked to a floor to ceiling window to concentrate on the stars instead of Rey!

Rey watched him closely. She could sense he was struggling with his desire for her. It wasn't just him struggling, she was struggling over her desire for him as well.

Kylo looked away from the stars and back at Rey and continued, "You and I need to get some rest. You can sleep in my bed tonight. I will take the couch," he paused for a few seconds, "you have been a great help to me," he said, trying to change the romantic tension in the room back to the subject of the galaxy and her help over his memories.

Rey stood to her feet, walked over to where Kylo was standing at the floor to ceiling window and looked directly up into his eyes, "Ben, I.....," she hesitated awkwardly, then continued, "I don't want you to think I don't desire you, it's just that," she paused, "I'm not experienced with this. It's not a rejection on my part."

Kylo's expression was so soft and understanding as he gazed down at her. He took her hands into his own and replied, "I understand. It's me that's struggling right now being this close to you. I told you I wouldn't pressure you and I won't," he paused, "you're welcome to use my bedroom. I will sleep out here."

Rey's eyes dropped for a few seconds. She took a deep breath and then replied, "You're not the only one who is struggling."

Suddenly, Kylo's eyes lit up a bit with amusement, "Is that so?"

Rey flushed a bit and smiled, "Yes, that's so."

"Mmmm, I see," he replied, still keeping his hands to himself, then he continued, "Rey, there's nothing wrong with being 'inexperienced'. Nothing to be ashamed of or feel awkward about."

"Yeah, but, surely you've already???," she paused, dragging out her last word, "you know?"

Kylo huffed a low chuckle, "Rey, yes, but what does that have to do with you and I?" he continued as his expression remained soft and affectionate, "it doesn't matter to me that you are inexperienced. All I can see is you, Rey, and I'm in love with you. I have been for a year now."

Rey's expression relaxed a bit now as well, "I see," she looked up at him, "I'm falling in love with you too, have been this past year. During each Force bond connection, I felt myself falling for you more and more, even if I tried to deny it. I did want to take your hand a year ago on the Supremacy, but the Dark Side scared me, and I wasn't sure how I felt about the First Order. It wasn't you I was rejecting."

Kylo wanted to put her more at ease and teased her asking, "So, you want to know what makes me nervous around you?"

"You're nervous around me?" she asked with raised eyebrows.

"Yes, about one thing," he paused, "if you and I agree to take our relationship further, even making love eventually, I worried about you being with an older man. I know I'm ten years older. How do you feel about that?"

"How old are you exactly?" she asked.

Kylo sighed deeply, "Thirty."

Rey chuckled, "Yeah, you are old, aren't you?"

Kylo looked back down at her with a playful look of reprimand in his eyes, "You're torturing me for fun, aren't you?"

"Yep."

Kylo shook his head, "Okay, okay, I can take it. See? I told you. I was insecure about you wanting me due to that."

"I don't think twice about it, just as you said you don't care about my lack of experience," she paused as she rolled Kylo's fingers inside of hers, "I'm nineteen. Plenty old enough to decide what I want and don't want."

Kylo's expression softened back to one of seriousness and affection, "Alright. Good. I'm glad it doesn't bother you."

They both endured a few seconds of awkward silence between them before Kylo once again broke that silence and continued, "So, let me show you my bedroom so you can get some sleep. If I don't change the subject right now, I'm liable to pick you up in my arms and carry you straight to my bed and not leave."

Rey's heart raced at his words. Just the sound of his voice as he uttered that sentence was enough to arouse her, but she didn't know if she was quite ready or not to make love with him.

"Alright, but," she paused, "you don't have to leave. Share the bed with me tonight? Can't we just hold one another as we sleep? I know we'll make love soon, but I have to feel completely ready."

"You don't mind if I lay next to you?" he asked.

"No," she shook her head, "come on. I just want to feel you holding me all night."

"I may have lost a lot of my memories recently, but one thing I can remember is that I longed for the day when I'd hear an invitation like that from you," he replied as he took her by the hand and led her to his bedroom, "just having you here with me is a wish of mine come true."

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: Making Love To You (Part 1)

Rey kept hold of Kylo's hand as they made their way back to his bedroom.  Her heart was racing wondering what making love with Kylo would be like, physically and emotionally, but right now she was so tired. It had already been a very long and emotional day for her, especially now that she was on board the Finalizer for the first time and that was a bit overwhelming.

"Um, make yourself at home," Kylo began as he removed his tunic.

Rey watched him unzipping his tunic without a second thought of her being in the room with him. She was dressed in a huge shirt that Kylo had loaned to her and a soft pair of cotton pants that she'd rolled up. She pulled the silk blankets and comforters down on her side of the bed and sat down while Kylo continued to undress until he was only wearing some black silk sleep shorts. 

Rey tried to avert her eyes, but it was no use. She pulled her knees up to her chest, the blankets too, and watched as Kylo hung his tunic, pants, and cape up and then placed his boots to the side of the bed. He sat down on the edge of his bed and just happened to catch her 'eyeing' him and his bare chest.

"The only other time I've seen you like this was when the Force connected us by surprise," she chuckled, "you weren't exactly prepared."

Kylo smiled, "No, I wasn't prepared, but I wasn't disappointed at all when the Force connected us that night when you were on Ahch-to."

"Tell me something, Ben."

"Yes?"

"When I asked you to put a cowel on, you literally just stood there looking at me and said nothing," she tapped his arm playfully with another chuckle.

"Can you blame me? The Force had just connected me with the girl I was falling in love with and I didn't exactly care that you saw me like that. I had hoped you liked what you saw?" he asked.

Rey's face flushed, "I did," she looked down at the bed for a moment and then back up at Kylo.

Kylo positioned himself inside the bed sheets himself and then opened his right arm up to her, "Let's rest. I'm happy just holding you tonight. It's something I never thought I'd have, you here in my arms and sharing the night with me."

Rey's heart was racing. Was this really happening? She slid herself next to him. The glorious feeling of his warm skin next to her body was nearly overwhelming. She felt Kylo's arm wrap around her, gently nudging her to place her head against his chest. Kylo's head went back into his pillow and Rey closed her eyes as she listened to the sound of his heart beat. 

As she listened to his heartbeat and the sound of air filling his lungs, Kylo interjected softly, "Rey? I'm glad you're here with me."

Rey craned her neck to look up at him as she replied, "Me too."

Kylo opened his eyes once more and leaned down to press his lips to hers in the most sensual and soft kiss she'd had with him yet.  They held one another's glance for a few more seconds after their kiss and then she placed her head back on his chest.

"Ben?"

"Yes?"

"Are you really going to contact the Resistance tomorrow to see what their intelligence is on the Mid Rim situation?"

"That's the plan," he replied.

Within seconds, they both drifted off into a deep sleep, thankful that no prying eyes were on them at the moment, whether it be Resistance or First Order personnel.

***************************

The room was so quiet. The only sound that could be heard was the humming of the Finalizer's engines. The Finalizer had remained in orbit around Ajan Kloss for the time being and would make it's way to the Mid Rim once Kylo conducted his council meeting later that afternoon.

Rey slowly opened her eyes. At first, she'd nearly forgotten where she was and felt disoriented as she looked around the room. She was brought back to reality as she still felt Kylo's warm body next to her and his arm gently still cradling her. She opened her eyes wider and lifted her head to look down at him sleeping. Was this man sleeping next to her so soundly the same man she'd been in bitter light saber battles with just months before?

She allowed her eyes to glance down his chest and then study the muscular shape of his arms. Her pulse rose. He definitely wasn't difficult to look at! She swallowed hard, not able to deny that she felt aroused just looking at him. His dark, soft, black hair was splayed along his pillow as he slept. She ran her hand gently through his hair, wanting to feel it for herself. As she did, Kylo slowly opened his eyes. He looked up at Rey sleepily and smiled up at her. She was the most welcome sight in his life!

"Rey," he sighed softly, "you're actually here," he paused, still glancing up at her sleepily, "I thought I was only dreaming.

"I'm really here," she smiled down at him and then ran her hand from his hair to his chest. 

Kylo sighed with pleasure feeling her hand on her chest, gently stroking him. The look in his eyes was nothing short of longing and arousal. Rey didn't mistake his look either. His eyes said everything. She knew he wanted her, but was trying his best to hold himself back until she told him she was ready for more. 

"Ben?"

Kylo took a deep breath in and placed his hand on top of hers as she stroked his bare chest, "Yes?"

"I....," she stopped and looked from his eyes to his lips, "I'm ready."

Kylo's eyes opened a bit wider. His own heart raced hearing her say she was 'ready' and he knew what she meant.  He lifted his left hand and ran it through Rey's hair, enjoying the softness of it as it cascaded down her shoulders.

"If you're sure?" he sighed with need and love for her.

Rey simply nodded slowly and silently while never breaking eye contact with him. Kylo sat up a bit and faced her, taking both of her hands into his own.

"I want to make love to you too, Rey. Do you trust me?" he asked softly.

"I trust you."

Kylo gently rolled her fingers inside of his hands and gave her a deeply affectionate and soft glance and replied, "I know this is your first time making love. I will be touching you in certain ways to prepare you to be with me, but let me know if you're not comfortable with something I'm doing. I will stop if you ask me to. Is this alright?"

"I understand that. I love you and want this with you, Ben."

Kylo's eyes trailed from Rey's hair cascading down her shoulders and then he took a deep breath and continued, "I think you're so beautiful already. I can't wait to see all of you."

Rey swallowed hard and inhaled deeply with her own anticipation of seeing Kylo's body as well and replied, "I love looking at you too and want to experience all of you."

Kylo leaned his forehead against hers and then slowly ran his hand up her back to find where her breast band was latched. Rey shivered as she felt his hand run up her back and fiddle with the latch on her breast band. She never broke eye contact with Kylo as he finally unlatched it and her band was now loosely hanging underneath the shirt she was wearing. Kylo moved his hand slowly up the front of her shirt and gently cupped her right breast. Rey sighed deeply. His hands were so warm and large as he cupped her. He ran his other hand up her shirt and was now cupping both of her breasts with his hands. He slowly leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. His kisses were gentle and slow. Rey ran her hands up Kylo's chest as he continued to use his hands to massage each breast as he kissed her. 

Within a few seconds, Kylo rolled onto his back and then motioned for Rey to straddle him. Rey positioned herself over him, and as she did, her hair cascaded down beautifully over her shoulders. Kylo reached for her shirt and gently started pulling it up and over her head. She knew this was the moment that he would 'see' her, see her bare body in front of him for the first time. She wondered if he would like what he saw. Her breath hitched for a few seconds in her throat as he tossed her shirt off to the side of the bed and gazed at her breasts.

"You are so much more beautiful than I ever thought," he said, sounding mesmerized as though he were worshiping her form. 

His hands ran down along her waist and then he gently ran his hands up to her breasts again. He sighed softly, "I love you, Rey. You're beautiful."

Rey didn't know how to respond. She just nodded to him, keeping her eyes riveted on his. As she straddled him, she could feel how hard Kylo's length was becoming. She didn't even realize that she began to grind against him slowly as he grew harder beneath her. Kylo's eyes closed for a few seconds and he inhaled deeply as she moved against him slowly. 

"Rey, Force......," he sighed out to her as she continued to instinctively move against him.

Kylo put his hands on her hips as she moved. Rey's breathing rate increased, and just seeing how utterly aroused Kylo was at this moment aroused her too. She'd never seen him sexually aroused before and it was an eye opening experience, something so brand new to her, a side of him she'd never seen before. Kylo finally opened his eyes and gazed up at her.

Kylo reached for his silk briefs and Rey could see he was trying to remove them. She accommodated him and slid off to the side of his body while she watched him remove his sleep shorts. As he did, she noticed how thick and above average length he was. Her heart raced and she wondered if it would be uncomfortable to feel a man of his size within her. She tried to put that brief thought out of her mind as she glanced at Kylo's length.

"Ben, you're beautiful too," she looked up into his eyes and continued, "you're not small, that's for sure."

"I won't hurt you. I'll take my time, I promise. I will make sure you enjoy this with me," he kissed her softly, running his hands through her hair, "I love you."

"I love you," she replied softly.

She leaned back on the bed and removed her sleep pants and underwear.  Kylo took his time preparing Rey's body for him.  He hovered over her, kissing her neck for a while as he kneaded her breasts gently, then kissed his way down her body, and as he did, took each nipple into his mouth for several moments.  Rey's head went back into the pillow. She inhaled deeply and kept her eyes on him as he used his lips and tongue to pleasure her breasts. He kept whispering her name and telling her how much he loved her as he made his way down her body, kissing her abdomen and then positioned himself in between both of her thighs. He looked up at her to be sure she was alright with what he was about to do.

Rey didn't flinch. She trusted him and he could sense this. The Force bond they shared was so intense that even in this moment of love making it made their experience that much more sweet and intimate. They seemed to understand one another and feel one another's souls without many spoken words. 

Kylo gently inserted a finger into her while slowly arousing her clit with his mouth, lips and tongue. Rey had never felt anything so warm, erotic and utterly sensual in her entire life. His mouth was so warm and the thickness of his finger inside of her as he gently thrust it into her was arousing her more by the second. 

"Ben," she sighed, "this feels so....," she stopped.

"Good?" he asked looking up at her for approval.

Rey nodded breathlessly, "Yes."

"I could look at your body all day. You're so perfect, Rey," he replied as his eyes glanced from her face to her breasts and back down to her clit. He went down on her again, this time applying more pressure with his tongue against her clit while thrusting his finger into her with a bit more pressure. 

Rey's body arched a bit, her eyes closed and she gripped the sheets. Kylo continued to pleasure her this way until he knew she was on the edge of climaxing for the very first time. 

"Oh god, oh....," she inhaled, "Ben.....," she said breathlessly again.

Suddenly, Kylo watched as Rey gripped the blankets around her. Her back was still arched up against his mouth as he brought her to climax. Her orgasm lasted several seconds and it was the most overwhelming sensation she'd ever felt. How did he have this power to make her feel this way? He wasn't even inside of her yet and she felt this good.

"Oh, Rey, I loved watching you like that," Kylo remarked after she'd come down from her physical high.

Rey looked at Kylo with wonder and panting breaths, "That was," she paused, "I don't know how to describe it, Ben. Beautiful."

Kylo could feel that Rey was so wet, so warm and he could hardly wait to be inside of her body. 

"I want to be inside of you, Rey," he asked as he slowly moved his way back up her body and hovered over her, "can I be inside of you? I will move slowly."

Rey nodded up to him as he placed a few soft kisses against her lips and replied, "Yes, Ben. I need to feel you."

"If you are in pain, let me know. I will stop, alright?" 

"Yes," she said, still trying to catch her breath from the orgasm she'd just had. 

Kylo took himself in hand and rubbed her clit with the head of his length for a few seconds, and as he did, Rey sighed deeply again and put her hands on his hips, literally urging him to be inside of her. She was hungering for him in ways she never knew she was capable of. Kylo also was battling the urge to thrust himself forcefully into her because he wanted to be 'one' with her so much, but purposely held himself back, not wanting to be rough.

Kylo moved within her slowly, only inserting the head of his length into her, but as he did, Rey's mouth opened slightly, her eyes gazed deeply up into his. He supported himself over her with his left arm while using his right hand to guide himself as slowly as possible into her body.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14:  Making Love To You (Part 2)

Kylo hovered over Rey, admiring her eyes as he did and the way her body gently arched or moved as he slowly entered her. 

"The way you're looking at me, the way your body is moving right now," he paused as he ever-so-slowly continued to enter her, "takes my breath away, Rey."

Rey's mouth parted slightly as she gazed up at him. She put her left hand on his shoulder and her right hand on his arm as he supported himself over her. She looked down between them and saw Kylo slowly pushing himself into her. Their bodies were connected as 'one' for the first time ever and that thought alone sent surges of emotions through her that she had no words for. How could she even begin to describe it?

As Rey looked up into Kylo's eyes, it was like she was seeing a totally different man than the one she'd known on the battlefield. His expression was so full of not only arousal, but utter disbelief that he was actually here making love to her. She studied his expression for a few more seconds before she was distracted by him moving a bit more deeply into her. She winced for a few seconds. Kylo stopped moving immediately and stayed still within her, stroking her cheek as he spoke softly.

"Rey, I'll stop. I'm sorry. I won't move again until you say so."

Rey cupped Kylo's face in her hands and gave him a gentle look of compassion replying, "It's okay. It's not your fault. I knew this might be a little uncomfortable at first."

Kylo stayed still inside of her, allowing her body to adjust to him. He put his forehead against hers and closed his eyes and took shallow breaths.  Rey closed her eyes as well, running her hands along his arms and waiting several seconds before finally allowing him to continue.

"Ben, I'm okay," she prodded him on.

Kylo started moving again within her. He could feel how tight she was and was being careful as could be, watching her every expression. One thing Rey never expected was how her former enemy was in bed. She remembered the man she'd met on the battlefield so many times before and never would have guessed he was a gentle and attentive lover, but he was.

It took several more seconds, but Kylo was fully inside of her now. Rey looked up at him with such trust and love, and as she did, Kylo's heart felt overwhelmed that she was not only allowing him this with her, but that she loved and trusted him. After allowing her body time to adjust to him, he still stayed still within her, but began to kiss her neck slowly, enjoying the scent and taste of her skin.

Rey craned her neck to the side, closed her eyes and put her hands on his hips as he gently thrust into her. She would wince from time to time due to his size, but then her body quickly adjusted to him. Kylo kept kissing her neck for a few more seconds and then went to pressing his lips to hers. She grabbed him at his shoulders and pulled him down to her so his body was nearly flush against hers. 

"Ben, I love how you feel," she said with a longing sigh, "you feel so full in me."

Kylo smiled warmly as he gazed down at her, "No pain?"

"Not really," she paused, "you're just really on the larger size and I'm trying to adjust, but no pain anymore," she replied as she ran her right hand through his hair.

Kylo kissed her once more on the mouth and then started kissing his way down her body and took one of her breasts into his mouth as he slowly continued to move within her.

Rey sighed out Kylo's name softly as he took each nipple into his mouth. He then ran his body flush over hers, making sure to stimulating her clit by rubbing his lower abdomen over it, then alternating using his fingers to do the same, while gently thrusting into her. Rey's sighs became deeper, more intense. Kylo's own breathing became labored, the ecstasy rising within him as he watched Rey's pleasure.

"Ben, I love you," she panted, "you feel so beautiful inside me. I never knew it could be like this between us."

Kylo felt his own climax approaching, but wanted to be sure that Rey came again first. He rolled onto his back and had Rey straddle him again. As she straddled him, she was careful to move down onto him extremely slowly since her body was still adjusting to his size. Once he was fully inside of her, he put his hands on her hops and guided her to move. 

"You're in control, Rey," Kylo sighed out to her, "move against me."

Rey had never felt such warmth and bliss as she ground her hips into him. She fell forward and closed her eyes for a few seconds. Her clit was rubbing against him in this position and his length was also hitting the Gspot and pelvic muscles so perfectly. The intensity of her climax rising to the surface was so great that she nearly couldn't breathe. Kylo's eyes were wild with anticipation as he watched her about to climax again.

"Can I come with you?" he asked breathlessly.

Rey opened her eyes and nodded 'yes.'

"Come with me," he replied as he arched his hips up into her as she ground against him.

Within seconds, Rey's climax engulfed her entire body. This time it was more intense than the first. Kylo let himself go, and as he climaxed, Rey could feel him pulsing within her, his body jerking slightly beneath. The sound of the longing panting sighs he was making when he climaxed made her own orgasm heighten. The Force was bringing them together so intimately that it was difficult to tell whether they were one person or two. After sharing this, the love, commitment and unity they both shared would forever be cemented in ways that couldn't be expressed in words.

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Another hour passed after they had made love. Kylo and Rey clung onto one another in bed and drifted back to sleep for a while. They felt this warm afterglow and were in and out of a light sleep, basking in the euphoria of it all.

Finally, Kylo whispered Rey's name to rouse her. He knew that time was ticking away and he wanted to get in touch with the Resistance and speak to his mother about the Mid Rim. He didn't want anything to interfere with this moment between them, but duty would call soon.

Rey was roused by the sound of Kylo's deep, soft voice. She smiled at him and then stretched happily as she sat up in bed. Her gaze settled on him in the most affectionate way, which made Kylo's heart soar.

"I could live seeing you look at me like that for the rest of my life," Kylo interjected.

"Really?" she asked, still wearing a euphoric smile on her face.

"Yes, really," he replied as he leaned over to kiss her, then he continued, "how do you feel?"

"I feel warm," she paused as she ran her hand through his hair, "loved, actually. I'm so surprised how wonderful that was between us."

"Surprised?" he asked curiously.

"I was thinking about our past with one another. We were once bitter enemies. I never knew making love with you would be so gentle, so tender and yet so beautiful," she replied.

"I see," he paused with a playful smile, "I am ruthless on the battlefield, but not in the bedroom, especially not with you. I love you," he said as he leaned over to press his lips to hers briefly, then he continued, "I hate to have us get out of bed, but I need to contact my mother and discuss Mid Rim intelligence with her. Then I have a Supreme Council meeting at thirteen hundred hours."

"Yes, I don't want to leave this moment either. Can't we just keep the galaxy out of our lives for today?" she chuckled.

"I wish," he chuckled back, "let's use the Fresher and then we can plan the rest of the day," he paused as he started heading for the Fresher, turned to Rey and continued, "I still need your help. There may be some lapses in my memory about certain things. Are you up for joining me in the council meeting?"

"I'll go with you, but I can only imagine how your officers will react when they see me sitting at the table today with you. None of them trust me or want me there, but I'll go," she replied.

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After they had showered and were dressed for the day, Rey sat beside Kylo holding his hand as he opened an encrypted channel to Ajan Kloss to speak with Leia.

"This is Kaydel Connix. Is this the Finalizer?" 

"This is the Supreme Leader, yes. My ship is still in orbit, as you are probably aware, and there's a reason for this. I need to speak to my mother if she's available?"

Kaydel paused for a moment, "Oh, alright. Hold on one second. She's here."

Rey gave Kylo a nod and a smile of encouragement as they waited for Leia to come to the COMM.

"Hello, Ben. It's mom. You need to speak with me? I see your ship is still in orbit. Is everything alright?" Leia asked.

"Mom, yes, I'm still in orbit. I have a request to make of you and it may sound odd, but it's important," Kylo paused, "as you know, I'm still trying to regain my memory in full. Rey has helped me but I might need a little more help. I do have my own intelligence on the situation in the Mid Rim right now and the threat of interplanetary war there over trade routes, but I'm conducting a Supreme Council meeting at thirteen hundred hours this afternoon and, before I do, I was wondering if you could share what intelligence you and the Resistance may have about the situation? I could combine it with my own intelligence."

Leia was pleasantly surprised that Kylo had asked for her help, "Oh, yes, of course. We do have intelligence about this potential problem. It will not only affect the First Order and trade routes, but the Resistance also will be affected by trade there. We get supplies from some of those very trade routes, so my own officers have gathered information of our own. I'd be happy to transmit to you what we have if you like?"

"That would be helpful, thank you," Kylo replied.

Leia and Kylo spent the next fifteen minutes discussing the Mid Rim and sharing intelligence on an encrypted channel. Kylo had downloaded the Resistance intelligence onto a data pad and combined it with the First Order's intelligence so that he would have a much more informed picture of what was going on, especially since he was still trying to regain his memory in full.

************************

It was now thirteen hundred hours. Rey was walking through the corridors with Kylo as they made their way to the Supreme Council hall. 

Rey looked up at Kylo and, as soon as she did, it reminded her of seeing him months earlier when they were still very much enemies. He wore his mask and was dressed in full uniform. She realized he was just presenting himself as he nearly always did as Supreme Leader and was happy to see him regaining his memories more and more, but the sight of him in his mask still reminded her of her past history with him. She decided to overlook it though, especially after how tenderly they'd made love just a few hours prior, and walked with him to the meeting.

As soon as Kylo entered the room with Rey, every officer stood to their feet in respect. No other officers had detected or knew that Kylo had suffered a memory loss since his crash on Mustafar. The only other officer to suspect something was 'off' or 'wrong' was General Hux, of course.

As Kylo stood at the head of the Supreme Council table, ready to give his opening statement, Rey took a seat beside him. Of course, as she suspected, many of the officers there did not like that she was there and were caught off-guard by her presence, but she tried to ignore it and focus on Kylo. General Hux shot Rey a sneering glance from across the table and then put his focus onto Kylo. As General Hux observed Kylo, he had this overwhelming feeling that something was 'off' or 'missing' when it came to their Supreme Leader. He debated whether to pursue it with Kylo or not. He was well aware that Kylo could kill him without even laying a hand on him!

Kylo began the meeting, speaking directly to the situation in the Mid Rim, but as each officer listened, General Hux was watching Rey carefully and even noticed some lapses in Kylo's memory with regards to certain details regarding the potential threat in the Mid Rim.

"General Pryde," Kylo began as he addressed the council, "refresh my memory on which planetary system is the most threatening in this trade route situation in the Mid Rim," he ordered.

General Pryde cleared his throat, "Yes, Supreme Leader."

General Pryde gave a more detailed overview, and as he did so, General Hux's stare in Kylo's direction narrowed with suspicion. He didn't say anything at first, but was convinced something wasn't right.

"Thank you," Kylo said as he resumed the meeting, "Did you deploy the star destroyers last night to the Mid Rim as I ordered?"

"Yes, Sir, we did," General Pryde continued, "our destroyers are in position as we speak. Our presence there could deter an interplanetary war for at least a few more days, Sir, but I suggest we take more aggressive action."

"Yes, I'm aware that sending destroyers will not be enough," Kylo replied, "suggestion noted," he paused. Kylo was glad that he was wearing his mask. He didn't want anyone to suspect that he was still trying to regain who he used to be and let that show on his expression during the meeting. Then he continued, "Take the Finalizer out of Ajan Kloss' orbit. We leave for the Mid Rim today," he ordered.

General Hux cleared his throat and said, "Supreme Leader, is there a plan going forward to tackle this situation once we arrive in the Mid Rim?"

Kylo looked over at General Hux and replied, "I've always got a plan, General. First, take us to the Mid Rim. I will give you orders from there."

"Sir," General Hux continued, "you've never once ordered us into a potential combat or military situation without informing us ahead of time about our orders."

Kylo placed his hands on the table in front of him and replied to General Hux with an angry tone. His voice reverberated eerily through the voice modulator of his mask, "Questioning me, General Hux?"

General Hux shifted uncomfortably in his chair, "No, Sir. Just asking."

"You have your orders, General," Kylo continued sternly, "you are dismissed."

Chapter Text

Chapter 15:  Kylo's Knights Come Looking For Him

Within the hour the Finalizer was a light speed and on it's way to the Mid Rim. Kylo's Knights were wanting to speak with him ever since he had returned from Ajan Kloss just to see how he was doing and how he was recovering from his crash on Mustafar. They didn't know yet that Kylo had suffered a lapse in memory, but were about to sense it. The Knights were mildly Force sensitive and once they spoke with Kylo, they would sense Kylo's struggles. The Knights were also aware that Rey, the Jedi from the Resistance, had returned with him to the ship and were also eager to meet her and find out exactly why she was here.

After Kylo had dismissed his officers from the council meeting, he and Rey were left alone.  Kylo removed is mask and set it down on the table in front of them and took Rey by the hands, giving her a gentle gaze.

"Thank you for being here. I know it couldn't have been easy for you," Kylo began, "are you alright?"

"I'm fine," she replied, "I expected your officers not to trust me. When I brought you to the Resistance base, they didn't trust you, so it doesn't bother me," she paused and enjoyed rubbing her fingers inside Kylo's leather gloves and then continued, "so, what now? It should take several hours before we reach the Mid Rim."

"I plan to go to the bridge to oversee operations there. I also may need to schedule meetings with political leaders in the Mid Rim if our presence there does not deter the escalation or threat of interplanetary war," he replied, "Rey, last night between us was something I will never forget. It was difficult to keep my mind on the meeting just thinking of what we shared."

Rey blushed, "Me too. I kept reliving each second of how we made love," she smiled warmly.

"I will always love you, Rey," Kylo continued. He looked down for a moment and sighed. Rey wondered if something was wrong.

"Ben? Are you alright?"

Kylo looked back up at her and continued, "I meant what I said this morning when we made love. I could love you and live like this with you for the rest of my life," he paused and gave Rey a very deep and penetrating gaze as he said this.

"Yes? I feel the same for you," she replied, still searching his expression carefully. She knew something was on his mind.

"Well," he continued, "would you spend the rest of your life with me? Not just as my lover or girlfriend, but as my wife?" 

Rey's mouth parted slowly with awe and surprise. Her eyes watered, "You're asking me to marry you, aren't you?"

Kylo nodded silently, "That's what I was asking you a year ago after we fought side by side against the Praetorian guards. When I asked you to take my hand I was asking you to marry me."

Rey wiped a tear from her eyes and her lip quivered for a few seconds.

"Yes, Ben. I will marry you. There's nothing I'd want more."

But before Kylo could pull her closer or they could bask any further in this emotional moment, Vicrul, Ushar, Trudgeon and several other of Kylo's Knights walked into the Supreme Council hall. Rey's eyes quickly diverted from her moment with Kylo and straight over to the Knights walking into the room. All of Kylo's Knights were wearing their masks and holding their weapons in hand, as usual.

Rey glanced back and forth from Kylo's Knights and back to Kylo again a couple of times and then let go of Kylo's hands and stood to the side of the table, waiting to see what this was all about and who these men were.

"No need to be on guard or fear," Kylo said softly to Rey, "these are my Knights, my personal companions that always go into combat with me."

Kylo felt relieved that he at least remembered who his Knights were! Rey sense Kylo's relief through the Force over this as well.

"Master Kylo," Ushar began, "Vicrul and Trudgeon insisted that we come find you. We heard about the Council meeting this morning and wanted to catch you before we arrive in the Mid Rim," he paused, "how are you since the crash on Mustafar? We all heard you were taken by this Jedi to the Resistance base?" he asked as he glanced over at Rey briefly and then back to Kylo.

"Yes, this Jedi's name is Rey. She found me on Mustafar and took me to her base to care for my wounds," Kylo replied plainly.

Vicrul stepped forward, "Why? She could have just contacted us and had the Finalizer come for you."

"After the crash, I lost some of my memories. It's a long story, but I had temporary amnesia. Miss Rey knew that if she contacted the First Order to come for me, I wouldn't have remembered who I was or how to take over my duties right away. She did the only thing she felt she could at that time," Kylo replied.

Vicrul nodded to Rey, "I sensed something was wrong with Master Kylo. It's not like him to not contact us at least every other day and give us intelligence reports. I sensed in the Force that something was wrong," he paused, "I'm grateful you took care of Master Kylo."

Rey nodded to Vicrul, "I wasn't about to leave the Supreme Leader lying on Mustafar with no memory," she paused, "I appreciate your thanks, but I also took him with me because I care for him very much on a personal level."

"I couldn't return immediately to the Finalizer with no memory of who I am," Kylo continued, "Rey helped me regain most of my memory. She also used the Force to show me images and memories of me ruling the galaxy. I am forever in her debt."

"I'm surprised you remembered us," Trudgeon interjected.

"I do remember all of you. Some of the memories Rey helped to restore for me was my life here on the Finalizer, my rule as Supreme Leader and you, my Knights, came to mind," he paused, "I'm headed to the bridge soon to oversee our operations from there once we reach the Mid Rim. I may need you all to be ready for orders to deploy in a moment's notice wherever you're needed to keep the peace while I deal with political leaders there," Kylo stated plainly.

"As you wish, Master Kylo," Vicrul continued, "I also have something else to report to you," he paused, "there is word among us Knights that General Hux is suspicious of you. He has been overheard discussing your decision not to destroy the Resistance base while you had the chance as confusing. He has also been overheard by several other officers on the bridge that he doesn't trust the Jedi, Miss Rey, I mean, being here. He might also be suspecting that your memories have not fully returned. He, among all of your officers, would like nothing more than to rule this galaxy or challenge you."

"General Hux is no threat to me," Kylo continued, "I am fully aware that General Hux wants to rule this galaxy," he paused again and then paced a bit and continued, "I know he wanted to kill me at one point. There's camera footage of him trying to pull a blaster on me while I was lying unconscious in Snoke's old throne room. He was going to kill me right then and there and take over. I may have lost a lot of my memories, but not those memories. I have my eye on him. If he challenges me or pushes me too far, I will deal with him."

After several more moments of conversation, Rey accompanied Kylo and his Knights to the bridge to oversee operations from there. Her heart was still reeling from all that she and Kylo had shared that day. They made love and she had received a marriage proposal all in one day......

So much was happening and she and Kylo both wished they had more personal time alone to bask in their intimate time together that they'd shared that day, but it would have to wait...... for now......

Chapter Text

Chapter 16: A Warning To General Hux

Rey walked beside Kylo through the corridors of the Finalizer as they made their way to the bridge. The ship was still at light speed, and would be for at least another three hours, until they reached the Mid Rim.  The Knights were walking behind Kylo as a sign of their submission to his authority. Rey would occasionally glance over her shoulder at the Knights or awkwardly study the officers and storm troopers going about their business in the corridors due to her not being used to being on board a star destroyer. It was as if she felt 'on guard'.

As they all entered the bridge, all eyes fell on Kylo, but especially Rey. None of the First Order officers were expecting to see the Jedi from the Resistance there and couldn't help but stare as she crossed the bridge with Kylo.

"Report, General Hux," Kylo ordered as he came to stand directly in front of him.

Before General Hux replied with an update for Kylo, his eyes glanced at Rey with disdain and mistrust first, then he refocused his attention onto Kylo and replied, "Supreme Leader, good to have you here on the bridge," he paused.

Kylo was not amused and could see right through General Hux's flattery, "Dispense with the flattery, General. Just give me your report," he ordered firmly.

Rey immediately noticed the tension between the two men and was eager to see how this conversation would go.

"Very well, Supreme Leader, we are en route to the Mid Rim, as ordered. All of our systems are operating at peak efficiency. General Pryde and I have alerted the leaders in the Mid Rim that you are arriving to deal with the threat there and possibly depose leaders and install new ones," he paused, "we also received a very awkward transmission from Ajan Kloss. General Organa apparently left a message for you and General Pryde has the details."

Kylo nodded and then replied, "Alright, my Knights are going to deploy in personal fighters to the Mid Rim once we drop out of light speed. They will monitor the situation in that sector from the orbits of the different worlds that are threatening war, so have the hangar bay prepare their ships. Also, I need the Command Shuttle fueled and armed. I plan to visit two different worlds to lay down ultimatums for their politicians," he ordered.

"I anticipated your orders and have already contacted the hangar bay to have your shuttle prepared, however, I will see to it that your Knights' ships are prepared as well," General Hux replied and then tried to walk away from Kylo and attend to another duty on the bridge, but before he got very far from Kylo's position, Kylo stopped him.

"General Hux," Kylo continued, "step with me over here for a moment in a more private location," he ordered.

General Hux nodded, but was not prepared for what came next. Kylo was well aware of General Hux's disdain for him and for his tendency to 'plot' behind his back or question his orders, tactics and wisdom in ruling. 

Rey stood a few feet away watching the conversation taking place, but gave Kylo space to deal with General Hux and keep her distance. She was still glancing around the Finalizer's bridge, studying the high technology and finding it fascinating to observe First Order officers at their duty posts. She caught General Pryde glancing over in her direction several times. It made her a bit uncomfortable and she now realized how awkward Kylo must have felt when he was on the Resistance base and surrounded by her people.

Kylo continued, "Let me make myself perfectly clear, General, so that there is no misunderstanding between us," Kylo stated firmly, his voice sounding extremely chilling through the voice modulator of his mask, "I am not unaware of your dislike for how I rule this galaxy, nor am I unaware that a year ago you made an attempt on my life while I was unconscious on the Supremacy," he paused as he noticed the chill and very apparent way Hux shifted fearfully on his feet as he listened to Kylo speaking to him, "I am also aware that you are grumbling on the bridge about how I've decided to go about things lately with the Resistance. If you wish to remain on my ship alive, you will obey my orders at all times without question. If you try to circumvent me, plot against my political decisions or go against orders in any way, I will use deadly force, literally, against you. Do I make myself clear?"

General Hux's mouth parted slightly, his breathing became shallow and he shifted again uncomfortably on his feet as he replied, "Understood, Supreme Leader, I......am loyal, Sir, and.....," he stopped.

Kylo interrupted him, "Do not attempt to flatter me with lies, General," Kylo continued, "we both know that if given the chance, you would take my place and run the First Order, and the galaxy. I am not naive nor unaware. You are alive and allowed to be stationed on board my flag ship at my discretion. Do not betray my trust nor try to circumvent me. If you do, this is your only and final warning. Do we understand one another?"

Kylo knew that General Hux suspected that his memories had been compromised when he'd crashed on Mustafar and he was not unaware that General Hux hated the fact that he spent days on Ajan Kloss and let the Resistance base go free without trying to take over or attack. He making it known up front that he would not tolerate a subversive move on Hux's part without it costing him his life!

"Supreme Leader, I assure you," General Hux continued, "you have my loyalty."

Kylo huffed sarcastically, "I have General Pryde's obedience and loyalty," Kylo replied, "however, what do I have from you? Someone who knows his life is on the line if he crosses me. I'd hardly call that loyalty," he paused for a few seconds and then said, "return to your duties at once and know that my eye is on you at all times," he ordered.

General Hux swallowed hard and then nodded to Kylo nervously. He eventually wandered off across the bridge and got back to his duties. Rey could see by General Hux's body language that something was amiss between he and Kylo and that the General seems almost fearful to continue his day. She would question Kylo about it soon enough to obtain more information about what this rivalry was between the two of them, but there were more pressing matters to attend to at the time.

*****************************

Kylo spent the next couple of hours showing Rey around the bridge and introduced her to a few of his higher ranking officers.  Rey was trying her best to keep her head up high and show confidence, but she privately admitted to herself that it was difficult feeling like she was surrounded on all sides by a former enemy. It was awkward, to say the least. Kylo could sense this in her and now understood how she felt due to his own time spent being surrounded by the Resistance for several days on Ajan Kloss.

Before the Finalizer dropped out of light speed, Kylo asked General Pryde for information regarding the message that his mother had left with them before they left orbit around Ajan Kloss hours earlier. The entire time Rey was watching Kylo discuss Leia's message with General Pryde, her thoughts drifted back to their intimate time together earlier that morning. Her her heart fluttered, literally burning within her as she relived some of their lovemaking.

After Kylo spoke with General Pryde about Leia's message, he glanced over at Rey. He was still wearing his mask and she could not see his expression, but if she could, she'd notice the affection and tenderness that was in his gaze toward her. She looked over at him and motioned for him to remove his mask for her. He nodded and then they walked off to a more private location so they could speak.

Once they were out of 'ear-shot' of anyone else, Kylo removed his mask for her and held it in his right hand.

"That's better," Rey said with a warm smile.

Kylo smiled and chuckled lightly, "Alright," he replied as his affectionate gaze was now very apparent to Rey, "I could sense your emotions in the Force, Rey," he paused and took her hand into his, "I feel the same as you do."

"Hmmm," she replied as she gave him a warm and affectionate gaze of her own in return, "I think we're both reliving our time together this morning?"

Kylo nodded silently, his intense gaze burning through her and then he replied, "It's difficult to focus on anything else. I loved every second of holding you, touching you....," he stopped himself abruptly and Rey knew why.

Rey swallowed hard. Her heart raced again and she could feel heat rising through her entire body as she replied, "I just never knew......," she paused as she shook her head in disbelief, "that something so intensely beautiful was possible between you and I."

Kylo immediately extended his gloved hand to her and she took it. He led them off the bridge and to a more private room. He wanted to hold her once more in seclusion before they dropped out of light speed and had to attend to political matters.

Kylo replied, "I feel the same. I never knew something this intimately personal could take place with someone who uses the Light Side."

Rey put her hands on his arms and smiled as she looked up at him, "You're stuck with me now, and stuck with a Light Side user of the Force."

"I don't care which side of the Force you use. I love you," he replied.

"I don't care that you use the Dark Side. I love you too," she said as she continued to run her hands slowly up to his shoulders.

Kylo leaned in and pressed his lips to hers and didn't pull away for several seconds, allowing his gloved hands to trail from Rey's hips and up her back. Rey nudged herself flush up against him as they continued to share a passionate and yearning kiss in this private moment they stole together.

When Kylo finally pulled back, his eyes were heavily lidded and his breathing had become labored.

"I wish we were alone right now," he sighed.

Rey touched the side of his face and replied, "Me too, but right now, you have to deal with the Mid Rim before war breaks out. Come on," she said taking him by the hand, "I'll help you get through this," she paused, but before they walked back onto the bridge she asked, "by the way, that General you spoke to earlier on the bridge looks like he's about to fall over with anxiety after speaking to you. What happened?"

Kylo shook his head and replied with a sigh, "That's a very long story. General Hux is a subject that will take me time to discuss with you. Let's just say, I don't trust him and that he'd wish for my downfall so that he could rule the galaxy if he could."

Rey's eyes widened, "What? Really?"

"Oh yes," Kylo replied, "really," he said emphatically, "and he knows my memory has been lapsing since the crash on Mustafar and would take advantage if he could. I gave him a warning that I won't tolerate any moves on his part to circumvent me or he'd pay for it with his life. He tried to take my life once when he didn't think I knew," he paused, "so, I gave him a warning. If he's anxious, that's why."

"Hmmm," Rey nodded with a curious expression on her face, "can't wait to see how this plays out," she said rather cautiously and with a bit of hesitancy, "but I hope that he can do as he's ordered and not lose his life because of foolishly believing he can outwit you."

"One can only hope," Kylo replied as he took her by the hand and they went back out onto the bridge together. 

The Finalizer dropped out of light speed and General Pryde spoke to Kylo saying, "We have arrived in the Mid Rim, Supreme Leader. Your Command Shuttle is prepared and the political leaders are awaiting your orders for our next move."

Chapter Text

Chapter 17:  Rey Helps Kylo's Memory Lapse (Part 1)

Rey walked beside Kylo into the hangar bay. So much was happening. Officers were working consoles or walking between duty posts with data pads in their hands, storm troopers lined the hangar standing at attention as Kylo walked in, there was an audio system playing in the background with officers' voices giving orders, the Knights' ships were being launched and the entire ship seemed to be preparing just in case an interplanetary war broke out.

Right before Kylo and Rey ascended the Command Shuttle, Lieutenant Mitaka approached and nervously spoke to Kylo, "Supreme Leader, success to you," he began as he handed Kylo a data pad and continued, "here are the names of the political leaders you will be speaking to today."

Kylo nodded to Lieutenant Mitaka once and took the data pad from him and replied, "There will be success. New laws will be established today and these political leaders will follow those laws or new leaders will be put in place. Contact the bridge and let Genera Pryde know that the Finalizer is to be on high alert. If I feel it's necessary to deploy troops to keep the peace, then I want those troops ready as soon as I give the order, understood?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader. I will contact General Pryde right away," Lieutenant Mitaka replied.

As they boarded the Command Shuttle, Rey wondered what the day would hold. Their day started with such privacy and loving moments between she and Kylo and now, just a few short hours later, they were both off to see if they could stop an interplanetary war? So much in one day.

Kylo sat beside Rey as they boarded the shuttle and took her hand into his briefly and held onto it as his eyes regarded her with compassion.

"Sorry. There's a lot going on today. I know it's overwhelming," he said softly under his breath.

Rey smiled back and gripped his hand a bit more tightly in response, "It's not your fault. I agree that it's a lot, but it's your job to rule this galaxy and attend to pressing matters like this. I don't fault you."

"You will be ruling equally beside me, Rey. You will be sitting at the table with me today and I want your input," he replied.

"My input? Right now? I'm not even Empress yet," she asked, her expression curious.

"Yes, I want your influence, even now. You may not be Empress yet, but there's no reason you can't begin to rule with me right away. Waiting for your title is no reason to delay having you involved in everything with me," he said affectionately.

Rey could hardly believe what she was hearing. It was a whirlwind, for sure. So much happening so quickly, but she had no regrets about her decision to come back with him to the ship.

Kylo continued, "There's one stipulation as you rule beside me," he teased her.

"And that would be?" she asked with a coy smile.

"That you are prepared to be called into a situation alongside me with very little notice, and that sometimes we may not get the sleep we need, or time to adjust before one situation turns into yet another," he paused, "are you alright with this?"

"So, never a dull moment ruling the galaxy, huh?" she smiled.

"Not really," he replied.

"Ben, I'm with you. It all began back in Snoke's throne room when we stood together that day," she paused to look down at her hand in his and then continued, "we will do this together, starting again today and for the rest of our lives," she paused yet again and then gave him a more serious look and asked, "by the way, how is your memory? Do you need me to help you in any way to remember something when it comes to First Order procedure in situations like what we're about to face? Not that I know the First Order procedure myself exactly, but I could meditate with you in the Force once we land and help to open your mind's memories further if you need it."

"I will let you know once we land, but I think I'm alright. You've helped me to remember quite a bit, but if I do have a lapse in memory, I will excuse myself from the meeting and you can help me," he agreed.

The Command Shuttle lifted off and then set course for the Entralla Route Trade Region.

***************************

The Command Shuttle landed in a secret location on the planet Aleen where several political leaders were gathered and waiting.

Aleen and Ord Mantell were threatening war with one another over the Entralla Trade route. Each wanted to have exclusive access and claimed that their goods and services were superior to the other. 

Kylo took his seat at the meeting table and Rey sat beside him. Many of the leaders there did not know why Rey was there or who she was yet, but no one dared ask Kylo about it or challenge him regarding her presence. They all knew he would never tolerate such a thing.

It was a rather dimly lit room and First Order special forces were standing guard all around the room. Vicrul and Ushar were also present in the meeting. The other Knights Kylo had scattered throughout Aleen and Ord Mantell to keep watch on the tensions between the two worlds and to report to him if things escalated during the meeting.

Many of the political leaders thought Kylo was rather late in conducting this meeting, however, they had no idea that he'd been in a crash on Mustafar just weeks before and had temporarily lost most of is memory. 

"Supreme Leader," one of the dignitaries began, "we were beginning to wonder whether you would conduct this meeting between us and Aleen. The tensions have risen dramatically over this past few weeks."

Kylo placed his gloved hands on the table in front of him and replied in his usual monotone and confident way, "I'm well aware of the escalation of the tensions between Aleen and this world, Ord Mantell. Political meetings are conducted on my time table, minister, not on yours," he paused, "let's begin," he said, rather dismissing the leader's complaint.

Rey was using the Force to pay close attention to Kylo to make sure he was doing alright and remembering what he had to remember to carry out this meeting. She wanted to be sure that she was instrumental in making sure he didn't have a lapse in his memory or how to carry out First Order politics in this situation. The last thing she wanted was someone like General Hux taking over the galaxy or some other political leader trying to take advantage of Kylo's recovery since his crash on Mustafar.

***********************

During the meeting, things began to escalate between Aleen and Ordo Mantell, and as they did, a COMM system activated at the table they were all seated at. At the same moment the COMM activated, a First Order messenger came into the room with an updated data pad for Kylo to read over and it was not good news. Both worlds were amassing troops and ships against one another and the threat of war was looming large. 

The room fell silent as Kylo read over the updated briefing, but as he did, Rey could sense that he was struggling. He seemed to be reading rather slowly and, at times, was glancing over at her as though he needed assistance with remembering policy. Rey could easily read his emotions and his state of mind. Their Force bond enabled their connection so intimately that it wasn't difficult for either of them to sense the other's most intimate feelings and thoughts.

"The Supreme Leader and I need to discuss this latest update," Rey began as she stood to her feet, "we will be back in a few moments."

Everyone in the room was surprised to see Rey take the lead like this and they all glanced around at one another, not realizing what was going on. Rey knew Kylo needed help, they did not.

Kylo stood to his feet, "Miss Rey is correct. I will return momentarily."

The meeting room fell silent except for one voice. One of the leaders stood to his feet as well and asked, "Supreme Leader, before you confer with this woman that is with you, our troops are about to be attacked by Aleen.  I want to set up counter measures immediately," he said desperately.

Kylo pivoted on his heels and replied, "You will make no moves until I order you to do so. My special forces, along with my Knights, are on the ground of Aleen and are keeping your armies under our control. No one will strike. I will only be a few moments," he ordered.

The politician took his seat once more as he watched Kylo leave the meeting room with Rey.

*************************

Once Kylo and Rey were alone in a room not far from the meeting hall, Rey took him by both of his hands and began urgently, "Ben, talk to me. I can sense you were lacking in that room. Something isn't right."

"How did you know?" he asked.

"I know," she paused, "Force Bond, remember?" she asked with a smile, "keep hold of my hands. I will help guide you in meditation with me. The Force will open up your mind and help you remember what you need to know to finish this meeting and follow First Order politics in this situation."

"I didn't think it would come to this, but obviously, there are still some gaps in my memory. I had all of our politics committed to memory for this past year," he said with a hint of frustration in his voice.

"It's alright," she replied as she kept hold of his hands, "close your eyes with me. Concentrate," she paused as she guided them both in the Force, "focus on the First Order, focus on this past year as you've ruled. Don't force the memories, let them trickle in naturally, see the First Order's politics as if they were something tangible right in front of you."

Kylo kept his eyes closed and his hands firmly grasping Rey's. Kylo definitely had the situation under control, but Rey was pivotal in helping him get back out there and finish this meeting that day...

Chapter Text

Chapter 18:  Rey Helps Kylo's Memory Lapse (Part 2)

"It's alright," she replied as she kept hold of his hands, "close your eyes with me. Concentrate," she paused as she guided them both in the Force, "focus on the First Order, focus on this past year as you've ruled. Don't force the memories, let them trickle in naturally, see the First Order's politics as if they were something tangible right in front of you."

Kylo kept his eyes closed and his hands firmly grasping Rey's. Kylo definitely had the situation under control, but Rey was pivotal in helping him get back out there and finish this meeting that day.

Rey spent the next several minutes with Kylo in a deep meditative state in the Force. As they held one another's hands in private, Kylo began to receive from the Force what seemed like 'down loads' of information. In that information was what he needed to continue his policies as they resumed the meeting. Using the power of their Dyad enabled the Force to work so powerfully through both of them and it was incredible. Kylo finally opened his eyes, looked at Rey pensively, and had an expression of awe on his face.

"You did it," he began softly, still giving her a look of awe, "the Force used our Dyad just now to....," he paused, "Rey, you've done more than come alongside me to rule, you've been the one reason I've been able to resume my duties as Supreme Leader."

Rey's eyes watered. She felt so overwhelmed that she wasn't sure what the right words would be. 

"I'm not sure what to say except, 'you're welcome' and 'I love you,' she replied.

Kylo smiled at her briefly, let go of her hands and continued, "Alright, thanks to you, I can resume the meeting."

"So, the policies came back to your mind for situations like this? You're sure?" she asked. 

Kylo nodded, "Yes, I believe so. Thanks to you, I already remember most of what I need to know, but you just helped me remember that last bit of information that will enable me to finish this."

***************************

As soon as Kylo walked back into the meeting hall with Rey at his side, the politicians there stood to their feet in honor of him. Everyone in that room realized that though they led planets and local cities, that Kylo was the ultimate ruler and authority over all of them in the galaxy. His law was final.

Kylo took a seat at the table again and resumed the meeting, "Report on the situation with Aleen. Are they still preparing to launch a strike against Ordo Mantell as we speak?"

One of the political leaders replied with a sense of urgency, "Yes, Supreme Leader. We may only have minutes before my home world is fired upon."

Kylo nodded and then wasted no time in opening up the COMM to the Finalizer to speak with General Pryde.

"General Pryde here, Supreme Leader."

"General, deploy several transports of our special forces to the surface of Aleen now. No delay," he paused, "also, dispatch two squadrons of our TIE fighters to their capital and have them do fly overs so their government can see them. Let it be a show of force that if they open fire on Ordo Mantell, we will take immediate military action," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader, I will take care of this," General Pryde replied.

****************************

As soon as General Pryde went to carry out Kylo's orders and deployed all of the special forces to the surface of Aleen and dispatched their divisions of TIE fighters, he received an incoming message from General Organa!

"General Pryde," a communications officer began, "not only do we have an incoming message from the Resistance, but General Organa's command ship is on an intercept course with the Finalizer."

"General Organa is on an intercept course?" he asked, "open a COMM channel to her ship. I wish to speak with her," he ordered.

"Yes, General."

Within seconds General Pryde found himself listening to Leia's voice on the other end.

"This is General Organa of the Resistance. I'm on an intercept course with your ship as we speak. My own intelligence officers have detected an unknown weapons energy source emanating from Ordo Mantell's surface that could prove even more deadly than anything that Aleen could fire at them," she paused, "haven't your sensors detected this energy wave from Ordo Mantell?"

General Pryde was a bit caught off-guard by this and replied, "No, we haven't calibrated our sensors to detect this. We have been focused on Aleen and carrying out the Supreme Leader's orders for deployment of troops to their capital. How did you detect this energy source on Ordo Mantell's surface?"

"We were already on an intercept course with the Finalizer when our engineers detected the energy source. I assumed you were already aware of this. Also, during my last conversation with my son, the Supreme Leader, I mean, I told him that the Resistance would be glad to come to his aid if war were to break out. He spared our base a few days ago and we are willing to return the favor to help. The Resistance doesn't want war in the Mid Rim anymore than you do," Leia replied.

**********************

As Kylo was receiving updates of the situation on Aleen and that his forces had been deployed as ordered, another First Order officer approached him and said, "Supreme Leader. The Resistance has intercepted the Finalizer. General Organa is offering her aid to stop the Ordo Mantell from launching a more deadly weapon against Aleen as we speak."

Kylo and Rey both looked up at the officer with surprise. Kylo replied, "General Organa?" he paused, "what sort of weapon is Ordo Mantell about to launch? We're already dealing with Aleen and stopping them from attacking."

"According to General Organa, this energy source is from a weapon more deadly than anything Aleen could launch. General Organa detected it on her sensors and is offering aid."

"Very well, please tell General Pryde to contact General Organa and let them know we will accept their assistance. Have the Raddus enter orbit around Ordo Mantell and tell her to launch any X-wings, or Resistance ground troops, as she sees necessary while we deal with Aleen," he paused, "however, send additional troops and TIE fighters to Ordo Mantell to work alongside the Resistance as needed," he ordered.

As the meeting continued, Kylo deposed the Ordo Mantell leadership, which was met with a near hostile response. 

"Supreme Leader!" the Ordo Mantell minister started, "You cannot remove me from power! Our ways and politics demand that the Aleen pay for their actions regarding the Entralla Route. They have not only blocked us from using it appropriately, but have their weapons pointed at us as well. If you weren't here to stop them, they would have launched them against us already. I'm merely doing my duty as leader."

Kylo stood to his feet and said firmly, "The fact that you were willing to use a weapon of mass destruction against Aleen, and nearly commit genocide, tells me you are not fit for leadership. I'm here to prevent two species from wiping one another out, and if removing you from power is how I go about this, then so be it," he paused, "from this very moment you are under arrest," Kylo said as he signaled for his special forces to come alongside the Minister, "you will will be taken to a First Order prison and await trial for attempted war crimes and genocide against the Aleen."

Chapter Text

Chapter 19:  Stopping An Assassination Attempt

Kylo stood to his feet and said firmly, "The fact that you were willing to use a weapon of mass destruction against Aleen, and nearly commit genocide, tells me you are not fit for leadership. I'm here to prevent two species from wiping one another out, and if removing you from power is how I go about this, then so be it," he paused, "from this very moment you are under arrest," Kylo said as he signaled for his special forces to come alongside the Minister, "you will will be taken to a First Order prison and await trial for attempted war crimes and genocide against the Aleen."

Special forces troops came up alongside the Ordo Mantell Minister and took him by the arms, but before they escorted him out of the meeting room, the minister became more violent, even ordering one of his own men to take action against Kylo and Rey.

"Now!" the Ordo Mantell Minister yelled to one of his operatives that was standing across the room.

The operative pulled a blaster from his belt and began open firing directly at Kylo. Little did this operative know that a mere blaster bolt was no threat to Kylo. 

Kylo raised his hand, used the Force, and stopped the blaster bolt in mid air. He then pulled his light saber from off of his belt and ignited it. The blaster bolt was frozen in the air, crackling loudly. Everyone in the room was mixed with fear and awe at Kylo's Force abilities as they all stood watching. 

The Ordel Mantell Minister grit his jaw together and said, "This isn't over! You can't just remove me from power like this."

Kylo walked up to the minister with his saber crackling loudly and put it at his neck and replied, "I just did."

The minister glanced at Kylo's saber at his neck and was breathing heavily. Rey had also pulled her light saber from off of her belt and was making her way over to the other Ordel Mantell officers and operatives that were in the room and said, "You will do as the Supreme Leader commands. The very fact that you were all willing to wipe out an entire species is more than enough reason for the Supreme Leader to depose you from power. Lower your weapons," Rey said as she held her own saber out in front of her against the other Ordel Mantell leaders.

The other Ordo Mantell leaders saw Rey standing there with her saber lit and wondered why she was standing beside the Supreme Leader.

"You have a blue saber and it's obvious you are a Jedi. Why are you working with the Supreme Leader?" one of them asked.

Rey replied, "Get used to a lot of new things happening in this galaxy, this is just one of them," she replied.

Kylo looked over his shoulder at Rey with her saber lit. Suddenly, he was filled with memories of he and Rey fighting side by side against the Praetorian Guards on the Supremacy just a year earlier. Such admiration and joy filled his heart knowing she loved him and that they stood together now as allies and lovers, no longer enemies.

Kylo's saber was still pointed at the Ordell Mantell Minister as he continued, "The power that you had over your world was allowed by me. I can revoke that power at any time and at my discretion. The fact that you had a weapon deadly enough to wipe the Aleen species out of existence is more than enough motivation for me to remove you," he paused as he motioned with his other hand for his troops to take the minister out of the room.

Rey kept her saber lit in an offensive manner for just a few seconds longer to send the message to any others who might want a fight today, that she and Kylo were more than ready to end it.

"We are finished here. Remove this man," Kylo ordered firmly.

Immediately the First Order special forces forcibly removed the minister from the room and took him into custody to board a transport to a First Order prison. Kylo turned his light saber off and hitched it back to his belt, turned to the rest of the politicians in the room and asked, "Is there anyone else who has a problem today with how I decide laws are made in this situation?"

Every politician in the room nervously took a seat in their chairs and didn't say a word of protest. Rey finally turned off her own saber and hitched it to her side as well. Both she and Kylo took a seat at the table once more as Kylo opened the COMM to the Finalizer.

"General Pryde here, Supreme Leader. We are awaiting your orders."

"The Ordo Mantell minister has been taken into custody for attempted genocide," Kylo began, "he's been removed from power. I will install a new planetary leader before I come back to the ship. In the meantime, what is the status of Aleen?"

"As of now, Sir, General Organa has her own forces working with ours in orbit around Aleen, and on the surface, to help keep the peace there. The Aleen are standing down weapons as we speak," General Pryde replied.

"Very good," Kylo continued, "send a message to General Organa that the First Order appreciates their aid and that I will send a personal statement to her once Miss Rey and I return to the ship. I will be boarding the Command Shuttle in a few hours' time. I have to interview several Ordo Mantell dignitaries and make my decision as to who will be the new leader of that world."

"Yes, Sir. I will have the hangar bay prepare for your arrival back to the ship soon," he paused, "it looks like war has been averted."

"The Ordel Mantell Minister was planning on launching a weapon deadly enough to wipe the Aleen species out of the galaxy, all over trade route rights," Kylo paused, "keep our destroyers in the Entralla Trade Route area for another few weeks just to be sure that the Aleen and the new Ordo Mantell leadership will settle their differences and live peacefully as they traverse the trade route," he ordered.

The next several hours were spent as Kylo worked out the details of establishing new leadership on Ordo Mantell, however, both she and Kylo were becoming increasingly tired and hungry. It had been well over a day since all of this began. One thing she was finding out, for sure, about Kylo was that he was not a lazy ruler who let everyone else do his bidding for him. He was actively involved in the galaxy's concerns. There was a side of him that she continued to notice coming to the surface that showed her he was genuinely interested in law and order and just because his political beliefs were dictatorship rather than democracy, didn't deter her from seeing his sincerity to rule with justice. She was eager to learn more First Order politics and get to work with him in the future of the galaxy.

*************************

After Kylo had a new Ordo Mantell Minister established as leader of that world and was satisfied that he had enough destroyers and forces monitoring the Entralla trade route, he felt comfortable leaving the meeting and heading back to the Finalizer.

As he and Rey boarded the Command Shuttle, he wanted to discuss so many things with her, not only about the day's events, but discuss the option of the two of them taking a couple days alone together somewhere so they could enjoy some privacy in their newfound love and romance. 

As the Command Shuttle was making it's way back to the Finalizer, Kylo took hold of Rey's hand and asked, "So much has been happening since you came back with me to the ship. We've been so busy with an emergency political situation that we haven't had time to really take in all that has happened between us," he paused, "we made love yesterday morning and then had to leave that all behind to take care of this situation with the Entralla Route, but what would you say if I told you I'd love to go somewhere alone with you for a couple of days so that we can focus on one another? I want to recapture that morning we shared yesterday?" he asked affectionately.

Rey's expression was a mixture of pure love, admiration, bliss and a slight blush crossed her face as she replied, "I was hoping we could be alone for a while. Yes, I want that," she replied as she gently gripped his gloved hand.

Kylo's expression was nothing short of euphoric and his heart was full as he replied, "Where would you want to go? I just want to be alone with you," he picked, "our love is so new and I need to have time with you where nothing else interferes."

"I feel the same," she answered with an equally euphoric glow on her face, "why don't we visit two different places? Ajan Kloss has a many secluded areas where we could enjoy the tropical environment there in private, then maybe we could spend the second day somewhere you would like to go?"

"Hmmm," he began, "back to the Resistance base? Do you think we'd truly have privacy?"

"Yes. It's a beautiful tropical world that has many private areas that won't be seen by the Resistance. I will make sure we're left alone. I'd be able to show you around."

"Alright, that's fine. Besides, we could always take time to speak to my mother in person about the aid she gave us in this Entralla situation before we leave the planet to head for Scarif," he replied.

"Scarif?" she began, "I hear it's a tropical world as well?"

"Yes, I think you'll like it. The First Order has many fortresses there. We'd be protected and have privacy. It would give us at least two days alone to explore this new love we're sharing?" he suggested.

"I can't wait," she replied, gently gripping his soft, gloved hand.