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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: The Supreme Leader Falls In Love With a Jedi

Rey was sitting in the Forrest on Ajan Kloss enjoying the sunrise. It was a beautiful morning. The sunlight was shining through the trees and there was a gentle breeze with a hint of the scent of the local flora nearby. She closed her eyes and began to meditate on the Force. Her master, Leia, had told her she wanted her to train harder today, so that's what she intended to do. Before even heading back to the main Resistance base to have breakfast, she sat on the ground and meditated deeply in the Force, trying to focus on the Jedi that went before her and also to hone in on perfecting her skills.

Her mind was completely lost in the Force. She was totally absorbed and fully committed to focusing on the Force. Up until now, she and Kylo Ren had been experiencing Force Bond connections, however, when she seemed to focus on the Force deeply, it was as if Kylo had the ability to hone in on her Force signature and he would try to contact her. This annoyed Rey and whenever Kylo tried to open their Bond while she was meditating, she'd do what she could to use her powers to block him so he could not get through to her. Their Force Bond allowed them to see and even touch one another through time and distance, yet she did her best to keep her 'supposed enemy' at a distance for as long as she could. 

As she meditated on the Force and started to think about running her training course on Ajan Kloss, she could sense Kylo's Force signature. Her pulse quickened. The quickening of her pulse was not always a bad thing. She hated herself for feeling a mixture of anger and angst toward Kylo, yet at the same time she'd felt strangely attracted and drawn to him, but since she was a Jedi, she resisted that urge and kept him at arm's length, avoiding him at all costs. Regardless of the mixed feelings she had for Kylo Ren, she did her best to put them out of her mind and focus all her energy on her Jedi training.

As she sat meditating, she felt Kylo trying to break through! 

"Why does he always try to do this to me?" she said out loud to herself with a tone of aggravation in her voice.

As soon as she said this to herself out loud, Rose happened to be walking up the path where Rey was meditating and she happened to over hear what Rey had said. 

"Why does WHO keep doing What to you?" Rose asked as she finally arrived where Rey was meditating.

At hearing Rose's voice, Rey lost focus and the rocks she was elevating suddenly hit the ground all at once with a loud thud noise and she replied with a sigh, "Hi, Rose. I'm trying to meditate."

"Sorry," Rose continued, "Leia needs to speak with you. Apparently it's important," she paused, "who keeps trying to contact you? You mentioned someone is trying to 'do' something to you when you meditate? I don't see anyone else around right now bothering you. It's just you and I here," she said as she scanned the area for anyone else that might be standing around.

Rey stood to her feet and brushed the dust off of her clothing and replied, "It's nothing I care to go into detail about, Rose. Suffice it to say, I can sense when someone is trying to intrude on my meditation with the Force."

"Hmmm," Rose asked with lifted eyebrow, "just who is it that keeps trying to intrude?"

Rey put her hands on her waist and gave Rose a slightly impatient glance and said, "An enemy."

Suddenly, Rose's eyes opened wider, "You don't mean Kylo Ren, do you?"

Rey dipped her head, "Could be."

"Alright, alright," Rose began, "I can tell you don't want to discuss this, do you?"

"Not really," Rey said as she pulled her saber from off of her belt and ignited it, "Rose, can you return to the base camp and let Leia know that I will be there to speak with her just as soon as I finish this training course? I'll be there shortly."

"No problem," Rose replied and then she walked off to relay Rey's message to Leia.

Rey channeled all of her power with the Force and put it into her training course that morning. After spending about an hour running the course several times, she was finally ready to take a break. Leia was waiting for Rey to finish so she could speak with her about an intelligence mission she wanted her to go on, but Rey still had not arrived at the base yet, so Leia sent Poe Dameron and Finn to go looking for her.  Right before Poe and Finn came looking for Rey, Rey had a vision of Kylo from the Force.

"Not again!" she sighed to herself out loud as she froze in place. Images of Kylo ran through her mind instantly as if Kylo were literally right there in front of her.

Suddenly, as she had just finished her training run and was out of breath, Kylo was literally standing there in front of her. He wasn't actually there, but his image before her appeared just as tangibly as if he actually WERE there with her. She froze in place and just stared at Kylo.

Rey was still breathing heavily, not sure what to say. The only thing she could do was glare at Kylo with a sense of caution.

The only thing Kylo said to her was this, "I offered you my hand once, Rey. I know you wanted to take it. Why didn't you?"

Rey remained silent. She was conflicted over her emotions where Kylo was concerned and she KNEW it, but she wasn't about to let those feelings be made known to Kylo out loud, however, due to their Force Bond, Kylo could sense her feelings and continued, "You can't hide, Rey, not from me."

Rey's jaw grit together tightly and she replied, "I have nothing to say to you, Kylo," she paused as she hitched her light saber back to her belt, "quit trying to contact me."

Suddenly, the Force broke their Force connection. As soon as Kylo disappeared from sight, her heart was left racing. Her face was red hot and her blood pressure was elevated. He evoked two different feelings in her: one the one hand, she did want to take his hand, but had refused since he used the Dark Side and was the Supreme Leader, on the other hand, she had an undeniable attraction for him and feelings of affection she dared not express. The only way she felt she could protect herself was to keep him at arm's length and treat him as an enemy. She did want to take his hand, but there was a tug of war taking place in her soul, a war she didn't know how to win, but for now, she tried her best to focus on her duties.

She tried to put their Force Bond connection out of her mind for now and head back to base camp to see what Leia wanted to speak to her about. Once she arrived, Leia sat her down at a console and began to share details of the latest mission she wanted to send her on.

"Rey," Leia began, "I'm sending you in the Falcon to retrieve some construction plans that the First Order has in operation, plans that could spell disaster for the Resistance. If you can get your hands on these plans, we will be one step ahead."

"What plans are these? To construct something?" Rey asked.

"Exactly," Leia replied, "I need you to leave at once. The Falcon is fueled, armed and stocked with food, water and medical supplies for a month's journey. There are rumors that a second Death Star might be in the beginning processes of being constructed. There is a First Order ship passing nearby this sector. I need you to follow that First Order vessel to one of their bases, infiltrate their base and try to get your hands on those plans. We cannot allow yet another Death Star to be built. I don't know what my son intends to do with it, if it's allowed to be constructed, but we need to try to stop this and get a hold of those plans. I'm sending you out today."

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Rey gathered a few of her personal belongings and loaded some things onto the Falcon and prepared herself for take off. As she was starting the engines of the Falcon, she'd hoped that the Force would not connect her again with Kylo anytime soon. She privately admitted to herself that each time the Force did connect them, and she saw Kylo standing before her, something deep down inside of her on an emotional level felt drawn to him, but she had to resist that, try to dismiss it as much as possible. 

She took the Falcon into orbit around Ajan Kloss and then jumped to light speed. She input the coordinates for the First Order ship that was on it's way to a research facility and was going to follow it there in as much of a stealth mode as she could. Her plans were to infiltrate into the First Order facility and try to get her hands on the new plans the First Order had in the making. What she didn't realize was that due to their Force Bond, Kylo somehow KNEW she was on her way to this particular facility and every intention of intercepting her there! He wanted to take her captive, but not as a prisoner, but as his guest. He had so much he wanted to say to her in person and pretending to 'capture her as a prisoner' was the only way to do so, then he'd do it.

As Rey was flying at light speed and well on her way to this First Order facility near the Outer Rim, a First Order destroyer named the Finalizer happened to pick up on the Falcon's engine signature and began to follow her in stealth mode of it's own. Rey was not even aware, at first, that she was being pursued by the Finalizer just as couple of light years behind her, but the Finalizer was closing in on her....and quickly.

Before long, Rey's proximity sensors sounded on board the Falcon. She looked at her console with deep concern and then looked up at the sensor output and said out loud, "Looks like I've got company."

She tried to make a few evasive maneuvers to out run the Finalizer, but it was no use. She then saw an asteroid field on her sensors not far from her location and decided to make her way straight for that asteroid field in attempt to lose them, but right before she could get to the asteroid field, the Finalizer came within close enough proximity to the Falcon in order to establish a tractor beam. Within seconds, Rey felt the Falcon jolt a bit violently as the Finalizer's tractor beam locked onto her ship. She knew there was no escape. The only thing she had left to do was to prepare herself for combat. She readied herself and put her blaster in her holster and hitched her light saber to her belt and waited for the Falcon to be drawn into the Finalizer's hangar bay.

As soon as the Falcon was brought on board by the Finalizer's tractor beam, she hid beneath some floor boards on the Falcon and utilized some of the smugglng places that Han used to use to hide himself or cargo. However, Rey's hiding place would soon be found out and she was about to be brought face-to-face with Kylo very soon. Kylo, of course, did not want to be her enemy. All he wanted was answers as to why she had seemed to want to take his hand back on the Supremacy but had rejected it. He just wanted answers from her, plain answers. Rey, however, was preparing herself for the worst, however, Kylo was about to extend her every courtesy as his guest on board the Finalizer even though Rey was not expecting anything but a fight.

Once the Falcon was brought on board the Finalizer's hangar bay, First Order troops boarded the Falcon looking for where Rey might be hiding. They eventually found her in a smuggling area hiding. They each took hold of her and brought her out of the ship and down the ramp. The First sight that Rey saw was Kylo standing in the hangar bay in full uniform wearing his mask.

"Rey,"  Kyo began as he extended his hand to her, "I just want to talk to you. Nothing more. You are not in danger."

Rey just stood staring at Kylo, frozen in place and feeling surrounded by storm troopers. She didn't know what to say at first, so she just continued to remain silent, gazing at him I awe as he removed his mask for her, which she had always known was a sign of trust from his heart to hers.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: Kylo Tries To Build Trust With Rey (Part 1)

"Rey,"  Kyo began as he extended his hand to her, "I just want to talk to you. Nothing more. You are not in danger."

Rey just stood staring at Kylo, frozen in place and feeling surrounded by storm troopers. She didn't know what to say at first, so she just continued to remain silent, gazing at him I awe as he removed his mask for her, which she had always known was a sign of trust from his heart to hers.

Rey kept staring at Kylo speechless for a few more seconds and then quickly reached for her light saber and unhitched it from her belt. She ignited it, and as she did, every storm trooper in the hangar bay immediately pulled their blasters out of their holsters and aimed them at Rey. Kylo knew his storm troopers were responding exactly as they should have, according to protocol, however, he quickly ordered them to put their blasters away.

"No!" Kylo began as held his mask in his right hand, "put away your blasters. No one will open fire on this woman. Anyone who tries to harm her will pay with their life!" he ordered.

Immediately every storm trooper in the hangar bay obeyed Kylo and put away their blasters. Rey kept her saber ignited and said, "That means nothing. I can easily kill just about every one of these storm troopers with, or without, my light saber! I am more than capable of defending myself if I have to!" she said angrily, then she continued, "why did you tractor my ship into this hangar bay? Am I a prisoner?"

Kylo kept a straight face as he replied, "No, you are not my prisoner. I merely want to speak with you. I haven't seen you since you left me unconscious on board the Supremacy," he paused, "also, I am well aware of our Force powers, Rey. I'm also aware that you and I both can kill even without using a weapon or light saber," he paused yet again and then extended his gloved hand to her and continued, "may we speak in private? There are too many storm troopers here."

"You didn't answer my question, Supreme Leader," she remarked sarcastically, "why did you tractor my ship here?"

"First of all," Kylo began, "that is not your ship. The Falcon belongs to my family. It's my father's ship, to be precise. Secondly, I've already told you why I brought you here. I need to speak with you."

"Against my will?" Rey asked while she pointed her light aber directly at Kylo.

"I apologize for that, however, I would never have convinced you to meet with me otherwise. I've tried opening up our Force Bond to speak with you, but you either block me each time or become emotionally distant and hostile," he replied matter-of-factly.

Rey was still keeping her light saber lit as her eyes scanned around the hangar bay at the troopers. Suddenly, two of Kylo's Knghts appeared in the hangar bay. Ushar and Trudgeon showed up and saw Rey with her saber lit and pointed at Kylo and, they too, became immediately defensive over their Master. 

"No! Put away your weapons. This Jedi is my guest," he ordered his Knights, "stand down."

Both Ushar and Trudgeon obeyed and stood at the back of the hangar bay watching what would transpire with baited breath between their Supreme Leader and this powerful Jedi.

"I will defend myself to the death," Rey began, her jaw grit with anger, "I will NOT be taken down without  a fight. I'm warning you now, release me or I will make sure that by time I board the Falcon to leave, most of these storm troopers will be dead!"

"I know and I believe you. I know your powers," Kylo began, "you and I are a Dyad in the Force. Though you use the Light Side, you are just as powerful as I am. I believe you would make good on your threat," he paused, "Rey," Kylo continued, "have you been listening to me? You are not my prisoner. I merely wish to offer you a meal in my dining hall and talk. I will not allow anyone to attack you. If anyone tries, I will kill them for it."

Rey's gaze fell once again on Kylo's Knights and all of the officers and troopers standing around the hangar bay. She was angry, that much was clear, however, she looked back at Kylo, and as she saw his gloved hand extended to her once again, it took her back in her memory to that day on the Supremacy.  The look in Kylo's eyes was not one of anger or hostility, but of pleading and melancholy. Since they shared a Force Bond, Rey could sense that Kylo was being genuine with her. She finally, and reluctantly, turned off her light saber and replaced it back onto her belt, but her eyes never left his.

"I will come with you to talk, but nothing more," she said, making it a point not to reach back for his hand. 

Kylo lowered his hand and then nodded, "Fine. That's all I ask."

Kylo moved closer to where Rey was standing and continued, "Follow me? I'll lead us to where we can speak more privately."

Rey nodded, but she wished she could board the Falcon and head back to Ajan Kloss. She felt surrounded by the enemy and definitely didn't feel at ease. She trusted that Kylo would not start a fight with her, but it still didn't ease the discomfort she was feeling at this moment.

Kylo led the way for them through the rows of storm troopers and they eventually made it to a turbo lift. Once the doors closed behind them, Rey didn't even make eye contact, nor did she know what to say to him. Kylo broke their silence and asked, "What kind of food to you enjoy? I will have my chefs prepare whatever you wish."

Rey kept her eyes looking at the floor or at the walls of the turbo lift and she replied, "What I want is to get out of here, not a meal."

Kylo felt heavy and replied, "If that is what you really prefer, I will take you back to the hangar bay right now. You will be free to go."

Rey finally looked up at him and made eye contact and replied, "You would? You're not lying?"

"I'm not lying to you. I've never lied to you, Rey. If you want to leave, I will let the Falcon go."

Rey suddenly felt shocked, "Hmmm, I guess I can stay for a meal and hear what it is you want to say to me, but if at anytime during our conversation I want to leave, I expect you to keep your word."

"Rey?"

"Yes?"

"I know I'm changing the subject, but is there anything in you, in your heart on some level that wanted to take me up on my offer? When I offered you to rule with me and take my hand, was there any part of you that wanted to?" he asked, not breaking eye contact with her.

Rey swallowed hard, took a couple deep breaths and tried to compose herself. She was all-too-familiar with the internal struggle that waged that emotional war within her over this. She did indeed want to take his hand, however, in her mind, she couldn't reconcile his use of the Dark Side and his being Supreme Leader of a dictatorship regime. 

She made eye contact with him again and said, "Yeah, you did change the subject and took things to a much more intimate level between us, didn't you?"

"Well?" Kylo began, "please answer my question. I could tell you wanted to take my hand. You were struggling with the decision. I could see it in your eyes and in your soul," he paused, "why did you reject me that day on the Supremacy and run away?"

"I guess I owe you a response. You did save my life that day against Snoke," Rey paused, "it's not that your offer didn't appeal to me on some level, but you and I use opposite sides of the Force. I want democracy, you want a dictatorship. It seemed to me, regardless of what my feelings might be, our paths were leading in different directions. We have different goals."

"So, by our own admission, just now, you are saying you DID want to take my hand and that the only thing keeping you from doing so is our political differences and our use of the Force?"

Rey nodded silently for a few seconds, trying to be careful how she'd respond, then she continued, "Correct. When we touched hands over that fire on Ahch-To, it's not as though I didn't feel the Force connecting us on a more deeply emotional level. I'd be lying if I said some part of me didn't want to take your hand, but....., our paths are leading in different directions."

Hearing Rey say this gave Kylo hope. He replied, "What if you hear me again, over dinner, and I present what I'm offering to you in a much more sincere and meaningful way? What if I can articulate what I want to say to you better? I'll admit I'm not the best with words. Sometimes what I want to say doesn't come out the way I hope. Will you hear me out once more? I believe I can re-word my offer to you in a much more transparent and compassionate way."

"Hmmm," Rey locked eyes with him, looking rather doubtful, but she continued, "very well. I will listen, but if I don't agree with you, your terms and I want to leave, I'm holding you to word to let me board the Falcon and leave."

"It's a deal," Kylo replied as he once AGAIN extended his hand to her in the turbo lift. 

Rey looked down at his hand extended to her. She extended her hand back to him to give him a very quick and platonic hand shake to 'make the deal' official, but as she shook his hand, Kylo didn't want to let go of her hand. Rey didn't resist. Kylo kept hold of her hand, and as she kept her hand inside of his hand, the soft, warm leather of his glove against her skin began to make her heart beast faster. She hated herself for this, but the fact remained that she was drawn to him, and she knew it, but she was not going to admit it out loud.

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Several hours had passed since Rey had left Ajan Kloss on the mission that Leia had sent her on. Everyone on the Resistance base was beginning to become worried for her. Leia ordered that Poe, Finn, Rose and several of her other officers man X-Wing fighters and begin to scour the sector of the galaxy that she'd sent to. 

"Search for the engine signature of the Falcon," Leia ordered, "along with looking for First Order engine signatures. She could have been intercepted by the First Order."

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: Kylo Tries To Build Trust With Rey (Part 2)

Kylo escorted Rey to his dining hall, however, as she walked along beside him, she was extremely cautious and her eyes were scanning every inch of every corridor they walked through for any potential threats that just might come her way.

Kylo looked over at her and noticed the wary look on her expression and remarked, "Relax. No one will harm you. I won't let them. Come on. We're almost at my dining hall. We'll have a meal and talk."

Rey merely nodded to him while still keeping her eye on her surroundings as they walked along. Within a few moments, they finally arrived at the dining hall.

Kylo motioned with his arm, "Go ahead inside. Sit anywhere you like and make yourself at home."

"At home?" Rey asked sarcastically, "I don't feel at home. Home is where my base is and that's where I should be headed right now as we speak."

Kylo took a seat across from her and replied, "Please give me a little bit of your time and if you're not convinced of what I'm trying to say, then you are free to go. As I said, you're not my prisoner."

Rey slowly took a seat across the table from Kylo and he sat as well. While their meals were being prepared, Rey waited with a bit of anxiety to see what Kylo would ask or say to her. Her anxiety was not an anxiety born out of fear, but an anxiety of the fact that he she knew he might try to make this interaction between them a bit more intimate and personal than she felt she was ready for. She knew very well that when Kylo had offered his hand to her on the Supremacy what THAT meant! She wasn't so naive and knew it was not a platonic offer.  She pretty much deduced that he might try to ask for her hand again, or ask or something much more personal between them, and her anxiety came from not knowing quite how to reconcile her attraction for him with her answer to anything he might say.

As the meals were brought into the dining hall, Rey lifted the tray and studied the food carefully and said, "How easy would it be for you to kill me right now," she remarked as she used her fork to move some of the food around, "just poison it and I'm gone."

Kylo sighed and gave her a rather melancholy stare and replied, "Rey, really?" he paused, "look, I'll use my own fork and take a bite of the of the food that is on your plate and eat it first," he offered.

Kylo did just that, he used his fork and took a bite from off of Rey's plate and took the first bite and said, "See? Nothing to worry about. Why would I offer you my hand, offer for you to rule the galaxy with me, and then try to kill you by poisoning you over dinner?"

Rey then started to take a bite of her own food and then said, "Hmmm, it's actually not too bad. Your cooks are pretty decent here."

"I hire only the best," Kylo remarked as he ate his own food. 

Two chefs came in and poured them each a glass of red wine, and once they left, Rey continued, "I remember very well when you offered me your hand on the Supremacy, and I think I know what you meant by it, but you weren't exactly clear with me," she paused, "as a matter of fact, you told me I 'came from nothing and WAS nothing, but not to you. Not exactly the most romantic way to win my heart over, if that was indeed what you were trying to do?"

Kylo took a deep breath. He suddenly felt awkward. He knew his choice of words a few months earlier with her were not the best and he replied, "My choice of words to you was not the best, were they? I apologize. As I told you in the hangar bay, I'm not good with words sometimes. I'm usually rather harsh at times and straight to the point," he paused and then put his fork down and looked right at her, "Rey, I didn't mean that you meant nothing, or that you truly WERE nothing. What I meant was that your background as a scavenger didn't matter to me. Your lack of royal blood or your lack of coming from a royal background was not important to me. That's why I told you that you did mean something to ME personally. Again, my way of communicating was not the best and I admit it," he paused, "I'd like to start over this evening and try again to communicate to you what it was I really wanted to say to you, if that's alright?"

Rey put her fork down, took a sip of her wine and then replied, "Hmmm, so.....," she paused, "I should give you another chance to communicate yourself to me again huh? What I should do is board the Falcon and head home. I don't feel comfortable here."

"You certainly speak your mind," Kylo said with a slight chuckle. When Kylo chuckled, Rey's heart rate actually rose and her pulse surged through her. This was the very first time she'd seen him chuckle and it affected her on an emotional level. His slight smile actually touched her and she wasn't used to seeing him smile at all. 

"I speak my mind just as you do, Kylo," she replied with a slightly annoyed look.

"Fair enough,"  he replied, "I'll get straight to the point then," he paused and put his own fork down down, "let me start over as if we were back on board the Supremacy that day that we defeated Snoke and his guards. When I offered you my hand that day, it was not a platonic gesture. I was offering you to rule with me, yes, and to stand by my side equally as Empress of this galaxy. I wanted to start something new, to end the Sith, the Jedi, the Rebels and start something new, something that you and I could contribute to using both the Light and Dark Sides of the Force. The Force wants balance and you are the one I want to bring balance to the galaxy with. Also," he paused, took a couple deep breaths and then continued, "my offer for you to take my hand also meant I want a personal relationship with you, a relationship that is intimate, tangible, and that will grow over time. I want to offer you not only the chance to balance the government of this galaxy, but I'm offering you myself and my heart."

As soon as Kylo finished saying that to her, she felt her heart racing. What on earth was she to say now? How would she respond to this statement? She swallowed hard and looked down at her lap for a moment. Kylo could see that she felt visibly uneasy for a few seconds. Rey looked up and replied, "I don't even know what to say."

"You don't have to give me an answer right away, but again, I ask you, is there anything in you that feels anything for me beyond merely tolerating me or considering me an enemy? Is there anything in your heart that could give me a chance to show you my heart and how much I'd do everything in my power to make you happy and give you equal authority and access to rule this galaxy with me?"

Rey gave him a doubtful look and replied, "You are capable of romance and courtship?"

Kylo put his fork down and his eyes penetrated her with a gaze that took her breath away and he replied, "I'm capable of that and so much more, if you give me a chance. I'd give all I had to show you how much you mean to me, if you will only give me a chance. I would never be a harsh and selfish lover to you, Rey."

Rey's heart was now racing even harder! Now he was speaking of being her lover? She swallowed hard again and locked eyes with him saying, "My lover? You're asking for that?"

"I am," he replied point-blank, "I am indeed."

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: To Accept Or Not To Accept? (Part 1)

Kylo put his fork down and his eyes penetrated her with a gaze that took her breath away and he replied, "I'm capable of that and so much more, if you give me a chance. I'd give all I had to show you how much you mean to me, if you will only give me a chance. I would never be a harsh and selfish lover to you, Rey."

Rey's heart was now racing even harder! Now he was speaking of being her lover? She swallowed hard again and locked eyes with him saying, "My lover? You're asking for that?"

"I am," he replied point-blank, "I am indeed."

Rey looked down at Kylo's hand and then back up at him. Her expression was once again of hesitation. Due to their Force Bond, Kylo could feel the struggle and emotional tug of war going on inside of Rey. Finally, it dawned on Kylo what just might win her over to take his hand, or at least consider it. He thought of two things, actually. As Rey looked back up at Kylo, she watched as he removed his gloves, symbolizing his willingness to be vulnerable with her and to make a connection with her on a more intimate level. 

Now he held his hand out to her, but this time, without his leather gloves, just like he had done while the Force had them Bonded while she was on Ahch-To. Rey looked at his bare hand, but before she could say another word Kylo interjected, "Also, I want you to know I've been in love with you these past few months. I know you would not accept an invitation from me if I were merely asking you for an affair or to be my mistress, I'm in love with you and am asking you to join me because I'd be committed to you in a faithful relationship. No one night stands, no affairs, but a real life long commitment. You would also be ruling equally with me and helping me to obey what I believe to be the Force's will, which is to bring balance between Light and Dark," he paused as he extended his hand even closer to her, "you'd be given a throne next to mine, everyone in the galaxy would Revere and obey you as they do me. I offer you my heart for the rest of my life."

Rey was moved at heart by his offer, but she was still hesitant and replied, "As you said, I do not come from a royal background. You do. I also have no real life experience with ruling or giving orders. I'm a warrior and would feel out of place. My nineteen years have been spent on Jakku and then fighting against you with the Resistance. I just don't know....," she stopped speaking for a moment as Kylo ran his bare hand slowly and softly along the back of her hand, his gaze continuing to penetrate hers.

She never broke eye contact with him as he kept grazing his hand along hers and then continued, "As if any of that matters to me? You could learn First Order politics. I'd help you. Also, you could bring changes to the First Order, and to the galaxy, if you'd only give this a chance. I don't know your past, or if you've had a romantic relationship with anyone else, but if you gave me the chance to draw you, to court and love you, you'd never look back. Please, Rey, please?"

Kylo was asking 'please'? She'd never thought she'd hear the day when he would ask anyone 'please' for anything!

A tear ran down Rey's cheek. She had never been loved before. Her parents had abandoned her on Jakku nineteen years earlier to Unkar Plutt, she'd spent all of those years alone just trying to survive with barely enough food or water and a sand-ridden At At to live in. Her arm had goosebumps on them just by feeling Kylo's bare hand gently and softly stroking the back of her hand. Kylo finally took Rey by the hand, which she did NOT resist, and then kissed the back of it!

While he was kissing her hand, Rey was mesmerized. She felt the urge to pull away simply because that's what she was accustomed to doing, but at the same time, she didn't want him to stop. She allowed him to kiss her hand and then, once he was finished, his face hovered a mere couple of inches from hers. They both locked eyes with one another and didn't look away for the longest time. 

"Your hand is soft, so warm inside mine," he said softly as he gazed into her eyes. 

Rey was quickly losing her ability to resist. There was already an attraction for him deep within her and that attraction had been there for several months now, so this was a moment she wasn't resisting as she allowed this moment to continue. She felt torn between her obligation to the Resistance, her use of the Light Side and her devotion to democracy, yet at the same time, she had been falling in love with her 'supposed enemy' for some time now and it was becoming more difficult for her to resist her heart. 

"Kylo...., I.....," she stopped.

"Call me Ben," Kylo responded as his eyes stayed locked on hers.

"I did want to take your hand that day on the Supremacy, but....," she stopped.

Kylo smiled, and as he did, Rey's heart rate picked up again seeing him smile. He hardly ever smiled, so this took her breath away and quite shocked her. 

After hearing Rey admit this, Kylo did something even more bold. One thing he wasn't was SHY. He knew what he wanted, and as a Dark Side user of the Force, he didn't hesitate to go after it. He stood from the table, kept hold of Rey's hand and said, "Slow dance with me to some slow music?"

"Dance with you?" she asked, quite taken aback by his suggestion with a red flush coming over her cheeks.

"Yes, I'll play some soft music. Would you allow me to hold you in my arms and just enjoy some soft music with you?" he asked.

By now, Rey knew the red flush that had come over her cheeks could not be hidden. How did he manage to disarm her emotions so quickly, or manage to begin to tear down that wall of protection that she'd built up around herself where he was concerned?

Kylo suddenly spoke out loud to an AI computer that was in the dining hall and gave it a voice command to start playing some soft, melodic instrumental music. He removed his second glove and laid both gloves down on the table and then extended his hand to her. Rey slowly reached for his hand and stood up next to him. The next thing she felt was Kylo's right arm slowly wrapping around her back and his left hand guiding her. His touch was soft and warm. He made sure not to nudge her flush up against his body yet. He didn't want to move way too quickly with her, however, he wanted so desperately to pull her up against him, but for now, he'd take this slow dancing moment.

The music played softly through the dining hall as she moved slowly with Kylo, feeling his arm on her back and his fingers gently gripping hers. She kept looking down but then Kylo used his hand to reach for her chin, gently making her look up into his eyes and said, "Thanks, Rey. This isn't so bad, is it?"

Rey managed a slight smile, very slight, and replied, "I guess it's not so bad, no....."

The music kept playing and instead of Rey avoiding eye contact with Kylo, they moved to the music together, each one's gaze penetrating the other. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: To Accept Or Not To Accept (Part 2)

The music played softly through the dining hall as she moved slowly with Kylo, feeling his arm on her back and his fingers gently gripping hers. She kept looking down but then Kylo used his hand to reach for her chin, gently making her look up into his eyes and said, "Thanks, Rey. This isn't so bad, is it?"

Rey managed a slight smile, very slight, and replied, "I guess it's not so bad, no....."

The music kept playing and instead of Rey avoiding eye contact with Kylo, they moved to the music together, each one's gaze penetrating the other. 

"You've got this whole romantic seduction thing down, don't you?" Rey teased him, but she was also being a little sarcastic too, still trying to keep her guard up somewhat. 

"I'm not trying to seduce you," Kylo paused, "if I was, you'd know it," he said with a heavily lidded look in his eyes, "I just wanted to enjoy a closer moment with you. I want you to trust me. I just wanted to share my heart with you."

Rey would look from his eyes to his chest and then to the floor and then back up to his eyes again. She had such mixed emotions right now. Somehow this felt so wrong, but why did it also feel SO RIGHT?

As she felt the warmth of Kylo's hand against her back, her heart raced again. Her lips parted as she looked from his eyes to his hair and then to his lips. 

"When you brought me on board, I was ready to battle to death to defend myself," she stopped....

"And now?" Kylo asked, tilting his head to look at her more closely, those deep brown eyes of his deeply penetrating her soul looking for answers.

"And now?" she continued, "now I find myself at a loss. I'm not sure what to think. You're supposed to be my enemy, not someone I'm having dinner with in a romantic setting."

"Mmmm, hmmm," Kylo replied with the slightest hint of a smile in his eyes, "but you are having dinner with me and letting me hold you in my arms to this soft music."

Rey nodded, "Maybe I should go now."

Kylo hesitated for a  moment and then asked, "Is that what you really want? If so, you can leave. I'm not holding you here. I told you what I had to say and if your answer is 'no' and you are ready to go leave, then I'll have the Falcon prepared for your departure," he paused and looked at her eyes and then her lips and then said, "but on one condition."

"Condition? Now there is a condition? I thought you said I was free to leave whenever I was ready to go."

"Before you go, will you let me kiss you first? Even if you say 'no' to me, at least I'd have the memory of your kiss to stay with me," he replied.

"If I agreed to a kiss, or even something more, it wouldn't be you deceiving me or trying to get me into bed for a one night stand or a quick affair?" she asked.

Kylo stroked the side of her face and then a very serious look came over his expression, "Rey, I would never treat you that way. Even if we share only a kiss, it would mean the world the me. If you ever decided you wanted to pursue something more intimate with me, you have my word it would not be a passing affair. I would want a commitment with you. I'd put my whole heart into a relationship we'd pursue."

Rey nodded with a slight smile, her lips were slightly parted, "Fine. One kiss."

Kylo put one hand under her chin and the other on the side of her cheek and then hovered his lips over hers. What came next took both Kylo and Rey's breath away. 

Feeling his warm, soft and full mouth on hers sent her pulse rising. Wasn't this supposed to be her enemy? Her head was spinning and her heart was beyond retrieving from this moment in time. She didn't know what the ramifications or consequences of this moment would bring them, but at this moment, this kiss was all she could sense, all she could feel. The soft tenderness of their kiss lingered for the longest time. Kylo relished each second. How he had longed for this moment himself as well. Holding Rey in his arms like this was a dream come true. 

Once they finally pulled apart, Kylo's hands were still on Rey's back and they stood there gazing at one another in amazement at what had just happened. Their brains and souls were trying to compute it all, but the only thing they felt was the reality of the Force drawing them together. 

"That was so nice, Rey," Kylo began as he stroked her cheek with his hand, "do you have an answer for me? Is there anything in you that wants to take me up on my offer?"

Rey dipped her head for a moment and then looked up at Kylo and replied, "Yes, I understand what you're offering me and I sense through the Force that you're not lying," she paused and took his hands into her own and then continued, "alright, Ben, I'll stay."

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: Rey Asks Kylo About Death Star Plans

"That was so nice, Rey," Kylo began as he stroked her cheek with his hand, "do you have an answer for me? Is there anything in you that wants to take me up on my offer?"

Rey dipped her head for a moment and then looked up at Kylo and replied, "Yes, I understand what you're offering me and I sense through the Force that you're not lying," she paused and took his hands into her own and then continued, "alright, Ben, I'll stay."

Rey's breath was taken away by the way Kylo's deep brown eyes penetrated her. His raven black hair framed his face so perfectly as he looked down at her. How had she not noticed until now just how deeply brown his eyes are and how thick and silky black his hair was? Their lips were still hovering over one another.

"May I have another kiss? This time, it's not a goodbye kiss because you're deciding to leave, but a kiss to celebrate that you're staying with me?" he asked, again a slight smile coming over his face. His eyes were also heavily lidded as he looked at her. 

Rey nodded nearly breathlessly and replied, "Yeah, uh.....," she stammered due to her shock over their kiss, "yes."

Kylo's lips brushed hers gently, at first, then he pressed more deeply into the kiss and it became more passionate. Rey finally put her hands on Kylo's arms. Kylo stopped for a moment and then put his hand on the side of her cheek and continued, "I won't press you to move too quickly with me, Rey. You have my word."

"What do you mean?" Rey asked innocently. She was well-versed in the Force and in combat, but when it came to romance, intimacy and love, this was her first experience. 

Kylo loved the innocence of her question and he was also well aware of their age difference. He responded to her with the utmost respect and replied, "I apologize. Like I said, I'm not always good with words, or how I express myself," he began, "what I meant was that I don't expect us to move too quickly with one another, and I don't expect you to want to be with me intimately too soon either. Was I more clear?"

Suddenly, it 'dawned' on Rey exactly what Kylo was talking about. Her face flushed a bit as she replied, "Oh...., uh...., yes, okay. I understand."

Rey continued as Kylo held her in his arms, "I understand. I was rather hoping I wouldn't have to," she stopped, "I mean....," she paused, "I was hoping things didn't move too quickly when it came to..... well, that."

"I might use the Dark Side, Rey, and you're used to either battling me or witnessing me on the front lines of combat against my enemies and how harsh I can be, but when it comes to love, especially with you, the only one I love, I am not harsh or selfish. I want to earn your trust and I will not move more quickly than you are comfortable with."

"I'm only nineteen," she said, "our age difference doesn't bother you?" she stopped a moment and then continued, "how old are you anyway? Twenty eight, twenty nine?"

Kylo let out a very low chuckle and replied, "Close. I'm thirty. I guess I'm looking my age, huh?" he smiled, "no, the age difference doesn't bother me. Now, if you were under eighteen it might be a problem, but you have to be close to twenty, right?"

Rey nodded as she still enjoyed the feeling of Kylo's arms around her, "I'll be twenty in six months."

"Uh huh," Kylo continued, "I thought so."

"How would you know that?" she asked with a chuckle of her own.

"I have my ways," he began, "I will also not forget your birthday and  I'll plan a huge celebration in your honor," he paused, "in honor of the galaxy's new Empress."

"Empress," Rey stated out loud to herself, "Empress?"

Kylo nodded and then took her by the hand and they  sat back down again at the table and he continued, "Yes, Rey. You will have the title of Empress. I'm the Supreme Leader, that goes without saying I know," he laughed, "but you will have an equal title to mine. You will be Empress, with all of the obedience and reverence that goes with it. Do you know what else that means?"

"What?" she asked curiously while still holding onto his hand while they spoke.

"It means that you and I out rank every other dignitary and royal in the entire galaxy. No matter if someone is a King, Queen, Noble or dignitary, they all answer to you and I. The final law rests with us," Kylo replied.

"Yes, that's how a dictatorship works, I guess, but how I do get past my desire for democracy, Ben? I can't lie to you. I won't be able to change my views overnight. I don't even know the first thing about First Order politics. How am I supposed to help bring the Light Side into things when I'm not a politician?"

"As I told you earlier, I will help you learn First Order politics. I don't expect you to hit the ground running and know what you're doing right away. All I am asking is that you take my hand, be the love of my life, and help bring the Light Side into the decisions and laws that are made for this galaxy. The Force needs balance and YOU are the answer to that prophecy of the Force," he replied.

"Oh, I see," she began and then she suddenly had a feeling of anxiety rise within her, "Ben, my people, the Resistance, they will come looking for me. They will most likely wonder what happened to me. I was supposed to check in with them hours ago. I was sent on a mission by your mother, Leia. What do I do from here? Contact them?"

Kylo leaned back in his chair for a moment and looked at her with such compassion and replied, "They are already on their way looking for you. I've received word on my digital console here that several X-Wings are following the engine signature of the Falcon."

Rey leaned over to look at the digital display on the console and remarked with surprise, "Wow, you actually have access to live information like this here, even in your dining hall?"

"Yes," Kylo replied, "I have access to everything I need, whether here in the dining hall or even in my personal quarters. No doubt, someone from the bridge will contact me shortly to inform me that they've detected X-Wings on their way for you," he paused, "would you like me to handle the situation with the Resistance when they arrive or would you like to handle it?"

"I think it would be best for me to handle it. They will just open fire on your ship. I might be able to deal with them diplomatically and explain my situation."

"Fire on my ship?" Kylo chuckled, "A few X-Wings will hardly scratch the hull of my ship. Minimal damage at best. I'm not worried about their threats," he stopped himself, not wanting to insult Rey or her friends and continued, "sorry, I didn't mean that rudely against your people, I merely meant a few X-Wings present no threat to my ship. I'm sure they care very much about you," he paused, "also, I agree, you are the better choice to deal with them."

"One more question, Ben," Rey asked.

"Yes?"

"Your mother, Leia, my commanding officer, she sent me on a mission when you found me. I have a difficult question for you, but I need you to answer it honestly," she said with a more serious look on her face.

"I will always tell you the truth, Rey. I won't lie to you. You have my word. What's your question?" Kylo asked as he made eye contact with her more seriously now himself.

"Ben, your mother sent me to investigate the possibility that the First Order is building a new Death Star. Some of the Resistance intelligence officers believe they intercepted 'chatter' that seemed to indicate that your regime is building another one like the late Emperor Palpatine did. Please tell me this isn't so? I'm coming right out and asking you this because I'm under orders from Leia to find out."

"Well, two things," Kylo began as he leaned forward closer to Rey, "first of all, you are no longer under orders from General Organa, my mother. You are Empress of this galaxy and take orders from no one. Secondly, I understand you are trying to finish one last mission she sent you on and be faithful to that mission. I know this about your character," he paused and then took her hand into his own and rubbed her fingers inside his and continued, "Rey, I am not building another Death Star. The First Order is not putting plans into motion to do that. After Snoke destroyed the Hosnian System with Star Killer Base, I had to watch helplessly. I was not yet the Supreme Leader and could do nothing to stop him," he paused yet again, a troubled look on his face, "my regime is not Snoke's regime. I don't intend to bring the galaxy into obedience by destroying entire star systems. It is merely a rumor started by some of my officers on the bridge. What you and the Resistance probably intercepted was chatter amongst my officers discussing how they would LIKE to welcome another Death Star, but I have never given the order to build one, nor do I intend to. That is the honest truth."

"Thank you for being honest with me," Rey began. She looked down at the way Kylo was rubbing her fingers inside of his and she smiled, "I appreciate you not lying to me."

"As I told you, I won't lie to you. You are powerful enough with the Force to detect if I was lying to you," he replied, "then he continued, "when your people get here, I will take you to the bridge and you can speak with them if that's what you like. I will not give the order to open fire on your people."

"On the bridge?" Rey began, "that ought to be awkward for me. The Jedi from the Resistance on the bridge of your ship? I'm sure every officer there would not trust me and would want me dead," she remarked quite seriously,

"I will not allow anyone to harm you, Rey. Everyone on board this ship knows that if I give an order, if it's not followed, or if I'm defied, they could lose their lives for it. No, I will give you access to the bridge when the time comes and I will not allow anyone to stand in your way."

As soon as Kylo finished speaking, the chefs came into the dining room and poured another cup of red wine for them. Once the chefs had left Kylo continued, "Also, would you like your own quarters? I can have some luxury quarters prepared for you. Lavish enough for an Empress, which is what you are," he paused, "I was not sure how comfortable you'd feel staying with me in my personal rooms yet."

"I'd like that, yes. I would have luxury quarters all to myself?"

"That and so much more," Kylo remarked, "I will announce you as Empress of this galaxy in a couple of days. You will be obeyed and revered. I will also make sure you have a wardrobe of clothing that reflects your status."

Rey looked down at her clothing and then back up at Kylo and replied, "I won't be used to any of that."

"Get used to it," he smiled and kissed the back of her hand, "this is just the beginning. I will do everything I can to make you feel loved."

After kissing the back of Rey's hand, Kylo stood to his feet and walked over to a COMM console and contacted the bridge. Rey watched and listened intently to what he might say next to his officers.

"Yes, Supreme Leader? Allegiant General Pryde here."

"General," Kylo began, "Our Jedi guest has decided to stay with us permanently now and make the Finalizer her home. I'm ordering luxury rooms and quarters to be prepared for her at once. I want this completed within at least a couple of hours. Stock her quarters with food, toiletries and anything else she may need. Also, arrange for some clothing to be sent up for her and some of our tailors to visit her quarters tomorrow. She will need a new wardrobe."

There was COMM silence for a few seconds. It was not in General Pryde's custom or habit to defy Kylo or question his orders, but he was a bit confused as to WHY this Jedi was now going to live with them. He replied with a sigh, "As you wish, Supreme Leader. I will contact you when her quarters are ready."

Kylo closed the COMM and then came to stand in front of Rey. He extended his hand to her once more and said, "The music is still playing. Want to enjoy it with me for a while longer?"

"Yes," she replied with a shy flush coming over face, "I'd like that."

Right as Kylo gently pulled her closer to him and put his arms around her to move to the music he hovered his lips over hers once more and said, "We can't begin this dance without another kiss, can we?"

Rey chuckled, "Oh, no...., we can't have that," she blushed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: Evenly Matched!

As they shared their second kiss, and the soft music continued to play in the dining hall, Rey could hardly believe the way this day was turning out. Earlier she was sent out on a mission by Leia and now here she was kissing and dancing with the very person that she thought was her enemy. Kylo pulled back from their kiss and he could sense her thoughts and emotions. 

"Rey," he stroked her cheek, "I cherish that you said yes. I can also sense that you're reeling emotionally from how differently this day turned out from what you expected."

"Yes," she chuckled, "I expected to be in a fire fight with  you and your storm troopers once you put a tractor beam on the Falcon and brought me into your hangar bay. I was waiting for a fight," she paused and ran her hands up his arms and then continued, "instead, look at us? We're holding one another, sharing a kiss and moving in one another's arms to soft music. I never expected this today. I guess our Bond makes it impossible to hide from one another's thoughts, huh?"

Kylo nodded, "Exactly, but I think it's a good thing. I am so glad the Force brought us together. I'm forever grateful that you gave me another chance to communicate with you. When I offered you my hand a few months ago on the Supremacy it was my first time doing something like that. I wasn't very good at it, was I?" he laughed.

"I like your laugh," Rey smiled, "I'm not used to seeing you smile or laugh," she paused, "no, your wording wasn't exactly what a girl would hope for."

Kylo dipped his head, "Again, I'm sorry for that. Hopefully this time around it went better?"

"Well, obviously you did a better job, right? I'm here in your arms, aren't I? If you failed again, I would have boarded the Falcon and been out of here and the last  you would have seen of me would have been my engine trail jumping to light speed," she teased him.

Rey continued, "You said you've never offered your hand to a woman before. Have you never been romantically involved with someone in your life's past?"

Kylo took a deep breath, trying to be careful with his words and replied, "I have had what you would call 'one night stands' or 'a fling' or an affair, but never anything serious. I was hoping you wouldn't ask me about that, but since you did, I want to be honest with you. But when it comes to a life long commitment or me offering my hand for life, no, I never have. Until I met you, I never wanted to offer my hand to anyone. What about you? Have you ever been involved romantically with a man in the Resistance or while you were on Jakku?"

Rey chuckled, "Not anything serious, no," she paused, "I shared a kiss once with a man in the Resistance after he took me out for dinner, but nothing more happened. I've had men interested in me, but for the most part, I did not return their affection. So, a kiss with a man is as far as I've gotten. It wasn't until I met you that I started to find that I was falling in love."

Kylo put his hands on Rey's waist and nudged her closer and said, "I'm honored that you chose me to fall in love with, Rey. I know I'm the least likely person you'd expect to love, but I'm forever grateful you have given your heart to ME and not to a man from the Resistance."

"The Force has a funny way with working things, huh?" she smiled.

Kylo leaned down and pressed his lips to hers again and then continued, "I have an idea. Now that we've eaten dinner, and while we're waiting for your quarters to be prepared, would you like to head to a training room with me? We can get a bit sparring in? You mentioned that when you boarded this ship you expected a fight," he paused, "well, I can offer you a sparring session? Would that be the next best thing? All in good fun, of course, and in peace?"

"Are you offering me  a challenge, Ben?"

"Yep," he nodded.

"Very well, challenge accepted. Lead the way to the nearest training room. I've got my saber right here on my side," she said putting her hand on her hip.

"Of  course, if your friends arrive in our sector looking for you and the bridge contacts me, it may cut our session a bit short, but we can at least enjoy sparring for a while?"

"I'm up for it. Let's go," she replied.

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

Kylo led the way to the nearest training room, and once they entered, Rey immediately pulled her light saber from off of her belt and ignited it, pointing it directly at Kylo. 

"Whoa," Kylo began, "you don't waste time, do you?" as he then pulled his own red cross saber from off of his belt and ignited it.

"I don't hesitate, no," she began to parry her saber, "ready?"

Kylo held his saber in a defensive position and replied, "I know what you're capable of. Let's get to it."

"I know what you're capable of too, but we'll be evenly matched and it'll be fun."

"At least you're getting the fight you expected when you arrived, but just not the exact way you thought it would go?" Kylo teased her.

"A friendly match, yes, but I won't go easy on you," Rey teased him right back.

"Fair enough," he smiled.

Just as soon as Kylo said that to her, Rey lifted her hand, used the Force and threw Kylo several yards away from her! Kylo went stumbling backward against the training wall without warning and never knew what hit him until it was too late. Once Rey used the Force against him to throw him, she ran toward him parrying her light saber. 

Kylo stabilized his footing and chuckled saying, "Hmmm, okay, two can play at that game. I can just put you into a Force sleep like I did to you on Takodona and knock you right out."

"You wouldn't dare!" Rey teased back.

Suddenly, Kylo lifted his hand, used the Force as well, but instead of putting her into a Force sleep, he froze her in place. She was unable to move. He started walking toward her with his saber crackling loudly. She was gritting her jaw and struggling against his Force freeze. 

Kylo was about to release her and revel in his apparent victory when Rey closed her eyes, concentrated deeply in the Force, and then managed to use the Light Side to release herself. She broke free, which shocked Kylo! After she broke free, they both began to clash their sabers with fury against one another. Even though they'd just admitted they loved one another and had agreed to an intimate relationship, the way they were sparring against one another was almost Rey's way of venting and letting out months of frustration it seemed. 

Their sabers clashed loudly, with no apparent winner or victor in the match. Rey met Kylo's blows with precision and skill and he did likewise, blocking her blows and eventually driving her back as well. It was an even match, for sure!

After several more minutes of sparring relentlessly, they were both out of breath! 

Kylo leaned himself against a wall and said, "Alright, Empress, I'm glad that you're on my side now!"

Rey laughed out loud, turned off her light saber and replied, "See? Evenly matched," she paused, "and yes, I'm glad we're not fighting against one another any longer."

"The Force means for us to stand together, Rey. We will rule this galaxy together and bring the changes the Force has willed," he paused was taking a sip of water and then continued, "again, I'm glad we're on the same side now. Your skills have really improved."

"I've had plenty of time to train these past few months. I run a training course almost daily on my base and have meditated deeply in the Force for so long now, I sure hope my skills have improved," she replied.

"Your skills were impressive even when we stood together in Snoke's throne room, but you've really honed your powers now. I'm impressed," Kylo replied.

Just as soon as he said this, the COMM console in the trainingn room began to sound. Kylo walked over to the COMM console and answered, "Yes? Supreme Leader here."

"Supreme Leader, this is General Hux. There appears to be an armada of Resistance X-Wings dropping out of light speed as we speak. They are headed straight for the Finalizer. Orders, Sir?"

Kylo was still huffing and breathing deeply as he looked over at Rey for a moment and then answered General Hux saying, "I will be on the bridge shortly. Do not open fire. A few X-Wings can do very little damage to this ship. They are looking for Miss Rey. Again, do not open fire. I will be there shortly to handle this."

"Yes, Supreme Leader, as you wish."

Kylo closed the COMM and then opened his arms to Rey and asked, "A kiss? Before we head to the bridge to deal with this, I just wanted to hold you again. This is so new for both of us and my adrenaline is high," he smiled.

"I think I can manage that," she replied.

As they were leaving the training room to head for the bridge, Rey taunted Kylo playfully and said, "I won that match, you know?"

Kylo tilted his head at her with a playful but annoyed glance and replied, "You think so, huh? Just wait for our rematch!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: Romance, Confrontation with the Resistance and Empress Rey

"You think you won the match?" Kylo teased her, "just wait until our rematch."

Rey shook her head smiling and then she suddenly became more serious. Kylo noticed, "Rey? I think I know what's on your mind. We'll take care of it."

"I hope so. I just don't want any bloodshed. My people are here because they are worried for me. They are the only home I've known, aside from Jakku. But with the Resistance,  I had a family. My parents abandoned me on Jakku, so I have not had anyone except myself and a slave master," she paused, "sorry, I'm rambling, but this conversation I'm about to have with my friends on the bridge is going to be a painful one for me. They're my family now."

Kylo felt compassion for her. He had always felt compassion for her, even when he had first met her. The only other person he showed compassion to was when he was in his TIE Silencer and he had the opportunity to fire on his mother's bridge while she was on the Raddus and he chose not to. He instead took his finger off of the trigger, and out of his compassion for his mom, he couldn't fire on her ship. Someone else did, but he did not.

Kylo replied, "Rey, I can't promise we won't get into a fire fight with the Resistance. I know they are your family for this past year and it's only natural they are looking for you, no doubt believing you are my prisoner here."

"Precisely," Rey replied. 

Kylo slowly reached his gloved hand toward hers as they walked the corridor for the nearest turbo lift as they were heading to the bridge. Rey took hold of his gloved hand. Though she loved holding his hand 'bare skin', she also enjoyed the soft, warm leather feel of his gloved hand enveloping hers. Everythng about him was huge: his hands, his height, his broad shoulders, everything! She gently squeezed his hand and he squeezed back.

"We will handle this as best we can without bloodshed, Rey," Kylo began, but as I stated, I can't promise we won't open fire or they on us."

"Understood," she replied.

They entered the bridge a few moments later, and as they did, Rey expected that every officer there would stare at her in awe and confusion and that's exactly what happened. She tried her best to hold her head up high as Kylo spoke to his officers and generals.

"Report," Kylo ordered as he approached where Generals Hux and Pryde were walking on the bridge.

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde began, "an entire large squadron of X-Wings dropped out of light speed just a few moments ago. They're holding position just outside of our ship, circling it actually, and demanding we open our COMM channels. They know we have the Jedi and believe she's our prisoner."

"And with good reason. I would assume the same," Kylo replied, then he continued, "Miss Rey, your new Empress, wishes to open a COMM channel to speak with her people. Do so now," he ordered.

Every officer on the bridge looked aggravated that Rey was even there and some even glared at her with mistrust. Rey merely looked at all of them square in the eye and held her head up.

Rey looked at all of the officers on the bridge and was not showing them 'visibly' how awkward she felt.

Kylo continued, "Well? Open a COMM channel to the nearest X-Wing," Kylo ordered again, "and if any officers on this bridge even thinks about using their blaster against this Jedi, I will execute you on the spot. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," came random voices from around the bridge, all responding to Kylo.

General Pryde opened a COMM channel and said, "Miss Rey, you can use this console," he pointed.

"Thank you," Rey nodded to him and then went to take a seat, but as he took her seat at the COMM console to speak with the lead X-Wing, the Finalizer jolted and rocked a bit. They had just been fired up on by at least five X-Wings at once.

Rey hadn't even had a chance to speak a word when General Hux protested loudly, "Return fire, Supreme Leader? They could do considerable damage to our surface cannons if we don't stop them now or send out our TIE fighters."

"My plan is this," Kylo began, "send a warning shot off of the port bough of the leading X-Wing. Nothing more. Aim directly to the side of their ship. They'll get the message. If they don't, we'll take it from there."

Rey spoke out loud as she sat at the COMM console and said loudly herself, "I'm trying to avoid bloodshed. Please, do as the Supreme Leader says. A warning shot only," she ordered.

General Hux took great offense that Rey was giving orders on their bridge and looked at Kylo asking, "Who is she to be giving orders here, or have any say whatsoever?"

"General Hux!" Kylo began firmly, "this woman is your new Empress. She has every right to give orders on this bridge. It's MY bridge, MY ship. She is now ruling beside me. Do as she has said or you will be relieved of duty and sent back to your quarters under guard!"

Both Generals Hux and Pyde pivoted quickly on their feet and General Hux replied with shock, "Our new....., what?!" he paused, "our new Emp.....," he stammered, "Empress?"

"You heard me," interjected angrily "obey our orders."

General Pryde leaned over toward General Hux and gave him a 'warning' look that he had better obey Kylo or it could mean his very life. General Hux knew this. While he was in Snoke's throne room, Kylo nearly Force choked him when he took over as Supreme Leader, so Hux was well aware of Kylo's Force powers. He didn't argue or protest another second, and opened the COMM.

Rey cleared her throat and looked up at Kylo for a moment. He was wearing his mask, so she couldn't see his expression, but she could imagine exactly what expression he was wearing on his face as all of this transpired. She also got the instant feeling from watching this hostile interaction between Kylo and General Hux that it was not a friendly one, their relationship seemed very strained to her and she was right.

Right as Rey was about to speak, the Finalizer shot a 'warning' shot only across Poe Dameron's X-Wing. The shot missed him by only a few yards, but it wasn't meant to be a direct hit anyway. Poe got angry and open fired right back, this time he aimed for some of their surface cannons and the bridge. As Poe open fired, the Finalizer rocked and jolted again from being fired upon. So far, none of the other X-wings had open fired yet, only Poe's ship.

"Poe," Rey's voice sounded over Poe's COMM console, "stand down. It's Rey and I'm fine. I'm not in danger. Please stop firing on this ship or you could be destroyed and I don't want any of you harmed. I'm not a prisoner here. But, we cant' talk if you keep firing. The Finalizer will fire back if you keep this up, along with firing on our other friends too."

"Rey!!??" Poe's voice came through over the COMM, "what do you mean 'you're not a prisoner'? and to 'stand down'? We want you back. We traced the Falcon's engine signature to the Supreme Leader's ship. We've come for you and we demand your release!" he paused, "are they holding you against your will and making you say you're not a prisoner just so we'll go away? I'm about to order every X-Wing in this squadron to open fire on the Supreme Leader's ship unless they release you and we bring you back to our base."

Rey took a deep breath again and replied, "Poe, I meant what I said. I'm not being forced to say anything. I'm not a prisoner here. You have my word. Believe me, I'm powerful enough with the Force that if I had wanted to escape off of the Finalizer, I could have done so by now."

"You sound awfully confident," Poe continued, "I know you're powers, and that you're our best warrior, but you're out numbered. You're not that powerful that you could escape that easily."

Rey chuckled, "Poe, look. I am more than capable of taking care of myself, and yes, I AM powerful enough to leave this ship using all of my Force powers if necessary and no one could hold me if they tried. I'm here of my own choice. Listen carefully. The Falcon is in the hangar bay of this ship. It is fine. I will use it to fly back to our base and explain my situation to Leia, and the rest of you, within a few days, but for now, until I can speak with you all in person, stand down and trust that I'm fine. Turn back now before you're harmed."

"Turn back? Leia sent us here to retrieve you and that's exactly what I intend to do. I will target the bridge, the Finalizer's engines and surface cannons and order ALL of our X-Wings to converge on the Supreme Leader's ship all at once. We could do considerable damage. Come home, Rey. I can't pretend to understand your reasoning why you want to stay."

Kylo finally spoke up on the COMM and spoke angrily and firmly to Poe and said, "Look, leave now, you and your squadron. I have shown mercy by only firing a warning shot at your people. Next time, I won't miss and it won't be merely a 'warning shot'. Our targeting scanners will destroy each X-wing one by one while you watch," Kylo continued, "Miss Rey is here of her own choice. She is not a prisoner and is being well treated. She will be free to leave this ship at any time to return to your base and explain why she's staying with us," he paused, "however, I will give no more warnings. Stand down, leave now or I will order my officers to target each of your X-Wings and none of them will return to General Organa or your base," he threatened.

"Threat's threats," Poe taunted Kylo.

Suddenly, Poe ordered every X-Wing his his squadron to open fire on the Finalizer. Poe began targeting the surface cannons and the other X-Wings targeted the bridge. Thankfully, the Finalizer had their shields raised, so very little damage was done, but it was angering Kylo by the second. 

"I've already been patient," he said with a firmly grit jaw, "open fire. Take out one of their X-Wings. I don't care which one, then launch a squadron of our TIE fighters!" he ordered.

"Stop!" Rey stood from her chair at the COMM console, "Ben, don't do this." She called him 'Ben' on the bridge, not thinking about keeping things professional while in front of his officers, but Kyko didn't seem to care. 

Suddenly, Generals Hux and Pryde felt torn between obeying Kylo and obeying Rey. Kylo looked over at Rey and locked eyes with her for a few seconds. He then removed his mask and held it in his right hand so she could see his expression. Immediately, upon hearing her ask him to 'stop', his heart was softened, and so was his demeanor, she had that effect on him and she was the only one who did, and he replied, "As you wish, Rey."

Everyone on the bridge was shocked that Kylo did as Rey asked. Kylo turned to General Hux and said, "Miss Rey does not want her friends harmed. By the time I'm done with them, there won't be one X-wing left. Take the Finalizer to light speed at once," he paused, "we're leaving this sector," he ordered.

Rey sat back down again, and this time, with a sigh of relief. Right as Poe, and the rest of the Resistance squadron was about to open fire once more on the Finalizer, Kylo's ship jumped to light speed. They were well on their way out of the sector and putting distance between them and the Resistance by light years in a matter of minutes. 

Kylo walked over to Rey and continued in a low voice, "I wanted to end them, but I also promised you you'd rule with me and make equal decisions. I'll back down, this time."

Rey stood from her seat, walked over to Kylo and nodded, "Thank you. I appreciate that you compromised with me. I want to solve this situation peacefully, diplomatically, not with more killing and war."

Kylo nodded and then spoke to Generals Hux and Pryde saying, "I have several orders for you," he paused and spoke firmly, "first, prepare the Supreme Council hall. I plan to make a galaxy wide announcement that Miss Rey is Empress. Secondly, keep us at light speed for at least another couple of hours. I want to be as far as possible from the Resistance otherwise the temptation for me to destroy them will be too great," he continued, "also, are Miss Rey's quarters prepared and her new wardrobe brought up to her?"

General Pryde responded, "I will follow your orders, of course, Sir, however, if the Resistance should catch up to us, or if General Organa decides to follow us in the Raddus, would you like to be informed?"

"Yes, of course. If my mother's ship follows us, which there is no guarantee of, then alert me," he replied.

"Also," General Pryde continued, "Miss Rey's quarters are prepared, Sir. She is free to use them whenever she needs them. Also, I will be sure the Council hall is prepared for your broadcast tomorrow and," he paused, "our new Empress' wardrobe has been prepared and sent up to her new quarters, yes."

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

As Kylo and Rey left the bridge and were walking through the corridors of the ship Rey was impressed that Kylo had already kept his word to her and said, "I'm surprised, and pleased, that you backed down to my wishes. You took this ship to light speed, and out of the sector, to avoid a battle with my friends and possibly killing them. Thank you."

Kylo took hold of her hand as he led Rey to her new quarters and replied, "I love you. When I asked you to join me, I meant every promise I made. You rule now equally beside me and will have influence over every decision. There may be times you and I don't always agree on how to go about things, but we'll work through it. It's the Force's will," he paused as they were now stopped just outside of Rey's new quarters and then he continued, "I hope you will like your new quarters. If there's anything you need, my quarters are just a few doors down from yours."

Right before Rey put her palm on the scanner to open her door she replied, "Thank you. I will feel more comfortable with my own quarters until you and I become more, well,....," she hesitated aa moment, "intimate with one another."

Kylo took her by the hand, kissed the back of it and said, "I hope one day we will share quarters on the future and share intimacy," he paused, the expression in his eyes were very seductive as he continued, "maybe soon? one day?"

"One day," Rey blushed and flushed a bit, "I know you and I will eventually become much closer, even physically intimate, but I'm not quite ready yet. You understand, right? It doesn't mean I don't feel attracted to you."

Kylo's smile and eyes were so soft as he regarded her, "Of course I understand. Like I said, you're not a passing affair or one night stand to me, Rey. I'll be patient. When we make love for the first time, it will be well worth the wait," he leaned over to press his lips to hers and then said, "there is a hot meal waiting for you, an entire new wardrobe fit for an Empress and hopefully food and drinks stocked in your kitchen area. If there's anything else you want, use the COMM. You have direct access to my quarters. No one else but you has that kind of access."

Rey smiled, "I never knew you could be so tender and romantic. You've always seemed so harsh, cold and aloof."

"Thanks," Kylo chuckled as he dipped his head, "I guess I should take that as a compliment as a Dark Sider? Or not?"

"Sorry, I don't mean it that way," she began, "I just meant over this past years as enemies with one another, I never expected  you to be so, well, she paused, "tender and romantic."

Kylo kissed the back of her hand again and then graded her cheek with his gloved hand and replied, "I'm more than capable of tenderness with you, and will be for the rest of our lives. I can''t wait until you give me more of a chance to show you, but I won't put pressure on you."

After sharing one final kiss good night, Rey watched Kylo walk away and disappear around the corner. As the door to her new quarters slid shut, not only was she shocked and in awe at how luxurious her quarters and rooms were, but she was also taken aback by the numerous vases filled with flowers that were left on several tables in the room. Kylo had flowers delivered ahead of time for her. As she searched through her new quarters, checking everything out, she enjohyed the scent of the flowers he'd sent up, but once she entered her new bedroom, she saw rows and rows of gowns fit for an Empress hanging up. She also found a gold and wooden chest that was filled with precious jewels!

She began to hold up one gown after another, looking at herself in the mirror. She finally decided to put on some diamond jewels and a gown, and as she put on the jewels, she noticed a data pad in the gold and wooden box. She pulled the data pad out and a note on it was from Kylo and it said: 'These jewels belonged to my late grandmother, Queen Amidala of Naboo. They are yours now. I hope you enjoy them. Love, Kylo.'

She took one look at herself in the mirror and could hardly believe what she was seeing......

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: The Romantic Tension Is Rising

She began to hold up one gown after another, looking at herself in the mirror. She finally decided to put on some diamond jewels and a gown, and as she put on the jewels, she noticed a data pad in the gold and wooden box. She pulled the data pad out and a note on it was from Kylo and it said: 'These jewels belonged to my late grandmother, Queen Amidala of Naboo. They are yours now. I hope you enjoy them. Love, Kylo.'

Rey's face flushed all shades of red as she read Kylo's note on the data pad. So romantic, she thought. While she was trying on some gowns and jewels and enjoying the flowers in her quarters that he'd had delivered earlier, suddenly the chime to her door sounded. She was startled for a moment wondering who it could possibly be? This was her first day on board the Finalizer. Who could be visiting, she wondered?

She hurried over to the door and used a COMM console panel there and asked, "Yes, who is it?"

"This is Leiutenant Mitaka, Ma'am," he began, "the Supreme Leader sent something up for you. He forgot to have it sent up earlier, but I'm under his orders to deliver it to you now."

Rey was hesitant to open the door to a First Order officer, but finally decided to do so knowing she could easily disable him if he tried to attack or harm her! So, she opened the door with confidence now and, once the door slid open, Lieutenant Mitaka was standing there holding a golden looking box in his hand. 

"Here, Miss Rey, this is for you. Compliments of the Supreme Leader."

Rey took the golden box from Mitaka's hands and said, "Oh..., alright. Thank you."

As soon as she closed the door, she sat on a lounge and opened the box. Once she opened it, there was a hand written note this time from Kylo, not just a data pad! The personal hand written note said: Rey, I forgot to send you up some sleep clothes. I hope you enjoy these. Also, I'm so glad you are here with me. See you soon. Love, Kylo."

Rey's mouth parted with wonder and joy as she pulled a set of elegant silk pajamas from out of the box! She ran to the bedroom and held them up to herself in front of the mirror. She quickly got out of the gown and Jewels she'd tried on earlier and quickly changed into the pajamas. She then placed the hand written note from Kylo right next to her bed! She couldn't stop smiling and feeling the deepest warmth consume her soul.

She stood in front of the mirror looking at herself, gently stroking the soft silk against her skin and remarked to herself out loud, "Wow, I've never owned anything like this. If Kylo could see me in this right now, I wonder what he'd do or think?"

She knew she and Kylo were physically very attracted to one another and she also knew that if he had gotten just one glimpse of her in this sleep outfit, it would be difficult for him to stay away from her and she knew it would be difficult to stay away from him. As a matter of fact, as she surveyed herself wearing these silk pajamas in the mirror, she suddenly remembered the day the Force connected she and Kylo through their Bond while she was on Ahch-To and she saw him shirtless and only wearing his leather pants. She remembered VERY well how muscular and attractive he was.

Rey sat down on the edge of her plush and large bed and smiled to herself as she recalled that particular memory! She chuckled, "He was so caught off guard," she said out loud to herself, "but he didn't cover himself with a Cowell like I asked him to!" she laughed out loud to herself again, "It was like he wanted me to see him like that," she smiled.

Rey then made her way out to her kitchen area of her rooms to see what it was stocked with. As she went through the cabinets, she found different wine vintages, cheeses, fruits, breads, meats, breakfast and dessert items. She also found a cabinet filled with candles and matches. She poured herself a glass of red wine and then walked to one of the three Freshers that were in her quarters and surveyed everything. She was more than impressed with the luxuries in each Fresher. Sunken tubs, plush towels, top of the line toiletries, it was all so unexpected yet welcome.

As she walked back toward her bedroom with her wine in her hand, she barely crossed her quarters when the chime to her quarters sounded once again. "Who could this possibly be this time?" she wondered out loud.

As she approached the door, she assumed it might be that officer, Mitaka, again with something else, but instead of it being Lieutenant Mitaka, it was Kylo! The door slid open and Rey was wearing the silk pajamas he'd sent up to her. Her lips parted with surprise as she saw Kylo standing there. He was dressed in full uniform and didn't look like he was ready for bed at all. 

"Rey, wow," he said as his eyes scanned her form from head to toe, "those silk pajamas look beautiful on you. Do you like them? I hoped you would."

Rey's face flushed. She wasn't expecting this and especially since she felt like she was provocatively dressed in such a way to surely catch Kylo's attention, which it did! 

"I love them, Ben," she began, "I didn't expect this. The flowers, the gowns and jewels and now these pajamas? Even the hand written note touched me. Thank you," she paused, not sure if she should leave him standing out in the corridor or not and then she broke her silence and said, "I even put your hand written note next to my bed."

Kylo smiled, "Is that so?"

Rey nodded, "yes."

"May I come in or is that me being too forward?" he asked, "I just wanted to enjoy a drink with you. I tried to stay away, but just knowing you are on board my ship, and right down the corridor, was too much for me to resist. I promise I won't pressure you into anything. I just had to be near you. Is that alright or would you rather I leave and give you some privacy?"

"Well," she looked around the corridor and then inside her quarters and then replied, "not only are you a Dark Sider and the Supreme Leader, but a romantic too," she paused, "sure, come in."

Kylo walked into her quarters and the door slid shut behind them. Once it did, Kylo asked, "I see you found your way around the kitchen and poured yourself a glass of red wine? May I pour myself a glass?"

"Sure, go ahead," she replied as she took a seat on the lounge.

Rey watched Kylo's strong, muscular form as he walked across the room to the kitchen area and poured himself a glass of wine. As he was carrying it back toward her, her pulse rose and her heart rate was off the scale! He heart pounded in her chest and she wondered if he could sense it.

"You look perfect in those silk clothes. I hope I'm not making you uncomfortable by being here," he asked.

"No, I'm glad you're here," she began after taking another sip of her wine, "I was just thinking about one of our Force Bonds that you might find very interesting and entertaining, or even...., she stopped.

"Or even?????" Kylo asked curiously.

"Even arousing," she said with a somewhat shy voice, then she continued, "do you remember that night the Force connected us and you weren't wearing a shirt? I asked you to put a Cowell on and you just stood there staring at me! You didn't say a word or put a Cowell on. Did you want me to see you like that?"

Kylo smiled after taking a sip of wine and then put his gloves and mask on the lounge, looked at Rey and replied, "I won't lie to you. I wasn't exactly disappointed that the Force connected us at that very moment. I admit, I wanted you to find me attractive, that's why I didn't put a Cowell on."

"Hmmm," Rey said pointing her finger at him playfully, "I thought as much."

"Well, did it work?" he asked.

"Did what work?" she asked, acting as if she didn't know exactly he meant.

"Did you find me attractive that night? I was hoping you did," he admitted.

"Boy, you're not at all shy, are you, Ben?" she chuckled

"No, not really," he replied as he locked eyes with her.

Rey locked eyes with him, not sure what to say next or what to do next. She'd never been alone with a man in her quarters before, either on Ajan Kloss nor here, so she was a bit shy. Nothing usually made her feel shy. She was a Jedi Warrior, fearless and powerful in combat, yet this moment with Kylo's deep brown eyes and sultry deep voice penetrating her soul, literally made her feel disarmed, vulnerable and yet so desirous of him!

"Can I kiss you?" he asked without hesitation, "and then I'll leave. I just had to see you."

Rey nodded silently, not saying a word. The look in her eyes as she met his gaze said it ALL. The romantic tension was building between them both and it was becoming more intense by the second and they each KNEW it. 

Kylo leaned over closer to her and pressed his full, warm lips to hers. Rey wrapped her arms around him and deepened the kiss right along with him.

After they'd shared a very intimate and passionate kiss, Kylo did exactly as he promised. He stood to his feet, headed to the door to leave, turned to look at her once more and said, "Again, I'm glad you like the pajamas. You look so nice in them. See you tomorrow."

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Sexual Tension and Announcing Rey As Empress (Part 1)

It was the following morning and Kylo had spent a restless night in his own quarters. Once he had left Rey's quarters, all he could think about was her and how difficult it was for him to leave. He kept seeing visions of her in his mind wearing those beautiful silk pajamas. He poured himself a cup of Caf and then took a seat on his own lounge in his sitting area and opened his COMM channel to the bridge.

"Yes, Supreme Leader? Captain Canady here."

"Where are Generals Hux and Pryde, Captain?" Kylo asked.

"I was on bridge duty for the night, Sir. They will both be coming on duty within the hour," the Captain replied.

"Alright," Kylo began, "I need a status report on the position of this ship and where the Resistance is located? Have we been followed or have we detected them on sensors since last night?"

"We can find nothing on long range sensors, Supreme Leader," Captain Canady began, "however, we've intercepted some chatter from the Raddus, General Organa's command ship. Due to the chatter, it is appears they are not going to give up easily getting their Jedi back."

"I see," Kylo replied as he took a sip of his Caf, "that Jedi is going to be announced as Empress of the galaxy today. If the chatter you intercepted is indeed authentic, they might very well give up the pursuit of her once they see my galaxy-wide announcement of Miss Rey as Empress," he paused, "what is our present position in the sector?"

"We dropped out of light speed two hours ago, Sir, and are now positioned just inside the Mid Rim," he replied.

"Good. Keep us positioned right here. If there are any signs of Resistance X-Wings, or General Organa's ship, the Raddus, on sensors, alert me at once, otherwise, make sure the Supreme Council hall is prepared for my broadcast with the Empress. If you need me, I'll be on the bridge within the next couple of hours," he ordered.

"Very good, Sir. I will see to it. Captain Canady out,"

Kylo closed the COMM and leaned back in his lounge chair with his Caf and closed his eyes. All he could think about was that Rey was actually on board his ship! She was actually here and his heart was so full.

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

Rey slept so comfortably in her bed that night. She'd never slept in anything so plush and soft. The bed was huge and she was sprawled out in it, enjoying the silk sheets around her body. She stretched a bit and then sat up in bed and looked out of a floor to ceiling window that was just across from her. She was used to Ajan Kloss with a regular sunrise and sunset, but here on board Kylo's ship, it was the steady and continuous darkness of space and stars every day and night cycle. The only way she knew that it was morning was due to the chronometer that was on a table next to her.

It was 0500 in the morning, and as she sat in bed gazing at the stars, nebulae and planets, she thought of the night before when Kylo had come to visit her in her quarters. She loved the way he seemed to look at her while she wore these pajamas she had on. She stood from the bed and looked at herself in front of a mirror, and ran her hands over the silk she was wearing, and admired the sleep clothes again. She went to her closet and surveyed all of the gowns and jewels that were there again. She knew she had to pick the exact right gown for the day because today was the day Kylo was announce to the entire galaxy that she is now Empress.

About an hour had passed and the chime to Reys' door sounded. Thankfully, she'd managed to use the shower and put a robe on over her silk pajamas. She held her Caf in her hand and answered the door, "Yes? Who is this?"

She still didn't trust being on board a star destroyer and wanted to find out first who was just outside her door. Suddenly, she heard Kylo's voice, "Rey, it's me, Ben."

Rey pushed the button to open the door as quickly as she could, but was trying to hide from him just how entirely excited she actually was to see him! Kylo was her first real boyfriend and she was feeling euphoric at this moment.

"Ben, come on in," she motioned with her hand. Kylo could tell that she was elated to see him, but that she was also trying to suppress her excitement.

"It's good to see you, Rey. Did you sleep well last night?" he asked as the door slid shut behind him.

"Yes, I did. I've never slept in anything so comfortable in my life. How about you? Did you sleep?" she asked.

"Not too welll," Kylo stated plainly, "all I could think about was you. The fact that you said 'yes' to me and that you're actually here distracted me with joy all night."

Rey really admired that he never seemed shy or afraid to speak his mind to her. He literally wore a 'mask', both physically and emotionally, around everyone else, but not with her.

"I see," she flushed, "I thought of you too, but I'm used to sleeping on a sandy, dirty hammock on Jakku, so being able to sleep in a luxury bed last night completely knocked me out and I slept heavily."

"I'm glad," Kylo began as he sat down on a lounge, "may I have a good morning kiss?"

Rey also admired that he always asked her permission before kissing or touching her. She knew he was the kind of man that took whatever he wanted in life and went for it with aggression, especially since he was a Dark Sider, but when it came to HER? He was the perfect genteman and respected her boundaries 

Rey sat down beside Kylo and replied, "I'd like nothing more."

Kylo smiled, put his hand under her chin, then hovered his lips slowly over hers. He wrapped his left arm around her waist and gently pulled her closer to him as he kissed her. Rey was melting into his touch, into his kiss. What started out as a soft and tender kiss turned into something more passionate and filled with desirous emotion.

Kylo's breathing was becoming more labored with each passing second and Rey knew it. Her own heart was pounding in her chest. Kylo pulled back slowly and locked eyes with her saying, "This is difficult. I should probably go."

Rey didn't know what to say at first and then she replied, "It's difficult for me too."

Kylo wasn't exactly disappointed hearing her say this! He smiled and took her by both hands and continued, "I think I better let you get dressed for the announcement today of you as Empress. If I stay here holding and kissing you like to this, we will both never make it to the announcement," he winked at her. 

Rey was feeling feverishly desirous of him at this moment. Due to their Force Bond, they could both feel the romantic and sexual tension between them. She replied, "Perhaps you're right. I need to get my gown on, my jewels," she stammered rather distractedly, trying to regain her composure, "will you be back here in an hour to pick me up? I don't know the way to the Council Hall where this announcement is being made."

"I'll be back soon, yes. I will escort you there," he smiled and then leaned over and gave her one more quick kiss and then stood to his feet, "I need to stop putting myself in temptation's way like this."

"Temptation's way?" she asked.

"Yes, being here alone with you, holding you, kissing you, it's becoming more and more difficult for me to resist you, so that's why I have to go," he replied.

"You're not the only one who is tempted," she replied giving him a serious look.

Kylo sighed deeply after she said this, but it was a sigh accompanied by a smile as he shook his head saying, "Yeah, I better go. I'll be in trouble if I don't," he teased her.

"At least I know you find me attractive?" Rey teased him.

Kylo chuckled, "Uh, that's putting it mildly, Rey," he began as he grabbed his mask and headed for the door, "see you in an hour," he paused, "if we keep ending up alone like this, we both might end up giving into temptation."

Rey's face flushed a bit as she watched Kylo leave her quarters. Her heart was racing as she went into her bedroom to get dressed in her gown and Jewels. The big announcement was today. She would be presented live to the galaxy as their new Empress and ruling equally at Kylo's side. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: Sexual Tension and Announcing Rey As Empress (part 2)

Kylo showed up a Rey's quarters exactly an hour later, just as he had promised. As Rey's door slid open, Kylo extended his arm to her and said, "You look beautiful," he paused as she slid her arm through his, "and look every bit the Empress that you are."

Rey had never in her life felt so regal and elegant as she walked through the corridors with Kylo arm-in-arm toward the Supreme Council Hall. Unbeknownst to Rey, the Council Hall had been rearranged for the broadcast, but also two thrones were also set in place, one for Kylo and one for her. As they entered the Council Hall, Rey's breath caught in her throat as she looked at the two thrones there, one of which she knew was hers!

As they each walked into the Council hall, every officers and troopers bowed to them. Kylo led Rey to her throne and she took a seat, hardly able to believe that all of this was actually real and happening. It all seemed so surreal to her. Kylo took his seat next to her and then General Pryde approached them both with an announcement.

"Supreme Leader, Empress," he began, "the audio and visual equipment is ready. Any time you are both ready to make your announcement, we are ready to start broadcasting to the entire galaxy."

"Very good," Kylo nodded, "let's not waste another moment. The Empress and I have a full agenda today."

"Yes, of course, Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded with a slight bow.

Kylo looked over at Rey wih a nod, alerting her that he was about to make his speech and announce her as Empress. She understood his meaning and nodded back to him. Kylo stood to his feet and walked to a podium that was set up not far from where their thrones were.

Kylo didn't make his speech too long. He wasn't a man of many words. When he spoke, he did so with power, authority and brevity, getting his point across clearly and precisely. 

"Today, this broadcast is being transmitted to the entire galaxy. As you know, I took over the throne of this galaxy nearly a year ago from Snoke. Under my regime, improvements have been made by my policies, policies that if Snoke were still ruling, would never have gone forward. Not only have taxes lowered in certain star systems, and justice has been brought to many a suffering world, but law and order continues. Galactic economy is improving as well. There are more changes to come, which is why I have decided to make this announcement. For those of you who are not Force sensitive, what I'm about to say may not make sense, but suffice it to say, it is the Force's will that balance be brought to this galaxy. No longer will either Sith or Jedi rule this galaxy with endless generational wars taking place. From now on, Miss Rey, your new Empress, will rule beside me. She uses the Light Side of the Force. I am who I've always been, a Dark Side user of the Force, and that will never change" he paused, "however, it is the Force's will that Light Side voices be heard in this galaxy and that balance is brought to us. It's time for old things to die, the Sith, the Jedi, and endless wars over which side of the Force should rule. Both sides of the Force, both Light and Dark, are the Living Force, and both sides can now co-exist in peace. I've asked Miss Rey not only to join me in ruling this galaxy, but I am also naming her Empress. As an Empress who uses the Light Side, she will bring her influence to bear on First Order politics from now on. You will obey her and submit to her authority as you do me," he paused and looked over at Rey and nodded. 

Kylo's speech only lasted a few more minutes as he explained more about the Force to those who may not be Force sensitive and might not understand the full ramifications of having Rey join him. Once he was finished with his speech, the Resistance was speechless. They had all been watching this live broadcast from Ajan Kloss and were stunned.

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

After Leia had listened to the message her son sent out to the entire galaxy, she sat privately in her own quarters on board the Raddus in complete shock and bewilderment. She sighed to herself out loud, "Why, Rey? Why?"

Suddenly, Leia's chime to her quarters sounded. She knew it was most likely her officers wanting an audience with her about what they'd just heard regarding Rey and Kylo. Leia stood to her feet and went to open her door. Sure enough, Poe Dameron, Rose Tico, Finn and several other Resistance officers were waiting to speak with her.

"Come on in," Leia motioned with her hand.

"Did you just hear that?" Poe protested, "what the kriff is going on with Rey? I thought she was on our side? When I confronted the Finalizer the other day, and even open fired on them, I was hoping it would send Rey, and the First Order, the message that we wanted her back with us. Rey insisted on staying on board Ren's ship and then told me she'd visit us on Ajan Kloss soon to explain herself. Well, by the looks of things, I think we got the message loud and clear. She's joined your son and is now Empress?"

Finn put his hands on his waist and shook his head in disbelief, "I can't believe this either. When Rey comes to visit, I sure hope she has a good enough explanation to convince all of us why she'd do such a thing."

Rose always saw the best in Rey and interjected, "General, I believe Rey has a reason. I dont' know HOW I know this, but I know Rey well enough to know. I guarantee she'll contact us shortly and make plans to come visit us and explain herself in more detail. I know this is a shock, but let's have faith in her until we hear from her, alright?"

Leia sighed with shock and replied, "I will do my best to keep my faith in Rey, but I'm in shock. I sent her on a mission to see whether the First Order was making plans for another Death Star. She never reported back. Now, this is the first time we hear from her and she's now Empress of this galaxy and joined my son? I still don't have any answers as to whether the First Order intends to build another super weapon like another Death Star or a second Star Killer Base."

"We'll soon find out," Rose continued, "Rey will be here soon. I just know it."

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

It was toward the end of the day and, after the announcement had been made to the galaxy that Rey was now officially Empress, Kylo escorted her back to her quarters. He didn't want to assume she'd want to go to his quarters without asking. Once they arrived at Rey's quarters, Kylo's gaze penetrated hers deeply.

As he looked down at her, and she looked up into his eyes he said, "Well, Empress Rey, it's now official. You are ruling with me. How do you feel? I for one wish this night wasn't over."

"I feel elated, in awe and it feels surreal. I have so many emotions running through me right now. I know my friends must have seen the broadcast," she dipped her head with a sigh, "and I know them well enough to know they're not happy. I've got a lot of explaining to do. They've been my family this past year and I've probably hurt  and shocked a lot of people," she paused and looked up at Kylo again and continued, "so, you don't want the evening to end?"

Kylo's gaze was so tender as he replied, "No, not really. I have an idea, but only if you agree to it and are up for it."

"What idea?" she asked curiously.

"I could take my Command Shuttle for a flight out somewhere romantic and scenic in the galaxy. It would just be the two of us. I can have the shuttle packed with wine, food and desert and we can spend some time alone? Ever since we've made our relationship official, we haven't had time alone at all. How would you feel if I ordered the Command Shuttle to be prepared? We could spend the night enjoying the stars, nebulae, and other stellar phenomenon?"

Rey thought for a moment and then she smiled, "Alright. Let me get changed and then that sounds nice. It's still not too late yet. We can do that," she paused and then suddenly realized that Kylo just mentioned something about spending the 'entire night' together on the shuttle and then she continued, "the whole night? Alone?"

"I have a better idea," Rey began, "why don't we take the Falcon? How long has it been since you've flown the Falcon or spent time on it? The Falcon is already stocked with food and everything we'd need."

Kylo nodded, "Fine, the Falcon it is. I haven't been on that ship since my father used to take me on smuggling trips," he paused, "it even has sleeping quarters we can use if we're up late and need rest."

Of course, Rey KNEW what Kylo meant by that. 'Sleeping quarters' was understood between both of them though neither one of them came right out and mentioned it right away, but they each KNEW what the other one was thinking.

"Sleeping quarters, huh? Yes, of course," Rey chuckled as she gave him a playful grin.

"Sorry," he began, "I didn't mean to suggest that well...," Kylo stumbled a bit, trying to recover from his obvious statement, then he continued, "no pressure. That comment just kinda slipped out of my mouth, huh?"

"Just slipped out?" Rey laughed, "sure."

Kylo put his hands on Rey's waist and continued, "Let's just see how things go? We can enjoy dinner, enjoy the scenery out there in space, have time alone, and if we end up sharing something more intimate, then it will happen. If not, then I'm willing to wait."

Rey tried so hard not to blush, but she knew her facial expression must have given her away, "I'm very attracted to you, Ben, and I'm falling in love with you. I want to share more with you, but yes, we'll see how the evening goes."

"Alright, let's get the Falcon prepared," Kylo replied, "let's pack a few things we'll need and then enjoy some privacy with one another for the next twenty four hours," he took her hands into his own and looked down into her eyes and continued, "this will be the first time alone since we've made our relationship official. I'm looking forward to it."

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

A couple of hours had passed. There was no sight of the Resistance anywhere in the area according to the Finalizer's bridge sensors. Kylo felt at ease leaving the ship to spend a night with Rey alone. He left strict orders that if the Raddus or any other Resistance X-Wing showed up on sensors, he and Rey were to be alerted about it immediately. The Falcon was prepared, field, armed and stocked with food, drinks, fresh linens and even candles. 

As Kylo made his way up the ramp of the Falcon, he was looking around at everything so closely. Rey noticed how deeply he was concentrating on every aspect of the Falcon and said, "Ben, it's been a while, huh? Bring back any good memories?"

Kylo removed his gloves and set his mask down on a chair in the cockpit and noticed his father's 'lucky dice' still dangling from the ceiling of the Falcon and replied, "Oh yes, I do have some good childhood memories. I just wish my parents had spent more time with me," he paused and then fiddled with the dice a bit more and said, "I can't believe these dice are still here."

"Your father never wanted them taken down," Rey replied as she ran her hand over Kylo's arm, "come on, let's plot our course into the navigational computer. Where should we go? You mentioned nebulae and other stellar sights?"

"I think I know the perfect sector of this galaxy to take you to," Kylo replied as he sat in the pilot's chair and started inputting the coordinates into the navigational computer.

No sooner did Kylo enter the coordinates and start the engines, there seemed to be a problem! Rey shot Kylo and annoyed glance and said, "What did you do to the engines, Ben?"

"Nothing! I swear, I didn't do anything differently than I always have," he replied throwing his arms up a bit in confusion.

"You forgot to disengage this right here," she pointed with her finger at the console, "now try it."

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

Both Kylo and Rey had a very good chuckle over this mistake Kylo made and Rey teased him after they jumped to light speed, "So, you're the Supreme Leader, can command the Finalizer, fly your TIE Whisper and Silencer, but forgot how to fly the Falcon?" she smiled.

Kylo reached for her and pulled her into his arms, but this time with playful passion. As she sat on his lap, she wrapped her arms around his neck and then they locked eyes with one another. They didn't look away. The stars were streaking by as they traveled along. Their total focus and attention was on on another right now, nothing else. Kylo's grasp around Rey tightened a bit and now Rey was straddling him while facing him at the same time. 

Kylo leaned in, pressed his lips to hers and said, "I don't know about you, but I'm not hungry yet. Are you?"

Rey's lips parted a bit and her eyes looked heavily lidded as she replied, "No, I'm not hungry yet either."

Kylo looked away from Rey momentarily and his gaze was set down through the corridors of the Falcon and in the direction of where the sleeping quarters were. Rey saw him looking in that very direction and her heart raced within her. Kylo looked back at her and said, "Do we want to wait to eat? I want so much, Rey, to make love to you, but if you're not ready, just tell me 'no' and I'll not press you."

Rey looked off in the direction of where the sleeping quarters were as well, turned to face him again and replied, "Yes. I want to know what it's like to make love with you, Ben."

Chapter Text

Chapter 12: The Most Euphoric Experience Of My Life

"Yes, Ben, I'd like to know what it would be like to share that with you, I mean, make love with you, but....," she paused. Kylo was listening intently. He knew what she was going to say and he finished her sentence for her as gently as he could.

"You are about to tell me you want me, but you haven't been with anyone before? You're new to making love?" he asked.

Rey nodded and she looked down at her lap for a moment. Kylo lifted her chin with his hand and remarked softly, "Rey, it's fine. Why feel uneasy about that? I love you. I want to share this with you so much I can't put it into words, but if you ask me to stop at any time, I will stop. If you tell me you're not comfortable with something, I won't do it. It's alright. It's your first time. We all have a first time.  I want your first time with me to be memorable and most importantly for you to feel loved by me."

"I love you, Ben, and I want this with you too. It's crossed my mind a few times ever since the Force Bonded us and I saw you without your shirt," she blushed a bit with a small chuckle, then she continued, "thanks for understanding. I don't know where to begin. If you hand me a light saber and put me on the front lines of combat, I have no problems and no fears, but this makes me feel a bit vulnerable and inexperienced."

Kylo gently pulled her close into his arms and just gazed down into her eyes and kissed her softly. She wrapped her arms around him and returned his kiss and then he replied, "If you want, you can follow my lead, but if there's something you don't like, you need to communicate that to me, alright?" he paused, "and Rey?"

"Yes?"

"You're beautiful and I've been falling in love with you for months now. I'm grateful you want to trust me and share yourself with me."

As soon as Kylo comforted her with these words, he pushed a few buttons on the Falcon's console and took them out of light speed. Once they dropped out of light speed, the most beautiful nebula could be seen off their port bough. It was breathtaking. The colors from the nebula filled the cabin of the Falcon. After they spent a few minutes looking at it, Kylo took Rey by the hand and led them both back to where the sleeping quarters were. Rey's heart was pounding and her blood pressure felt like it was going through the roof. The anticipation was overwhelming. 

Kylo walked them into the sleeping area and was the first to begin unzipping his uniform tunic. He wanted to go first to put Rey at ease. She watched with baited breath as he removed his tunic and set it aside. This was a familiar sight for her! Kylo walked over to her and nudged her flush up against him. She could feel the warmth of his bare chest and skin next to her and loved every second. It was taking her breath away. The scent of his dark raven hair, the deep brown of his eyes and the deep way his voice spoke her name was arousing her enough already.

As Rey straddled Kylo now, she ran her hands over the contours of Kylo's chest and his arms. He closed his eyes thoroughly enjoying every second of feeling Rey's hands on him, which is what he'd wanted and longed for for so long. Kylo started kissing her neck. Rey tilted her head to give him access. Her breathing was increasing. His mouth felt so warm and full against her neck. He stopped for one moment and asked if he could remove her shirt and breast band. 

"May I remove your top and breast band, Rey? I really want to see you."

She nodded yes knowing full well that making love meant making yourself vulnerable to the one you loved was what it was all about and she tried to calm her nerves. She hoped that Kylo would like and enjoy what he saw of her body. As soon as Kylo removed her shirt and breast band, his lips parted in awe, almost as if he was worshipping the sight of her body.  

As Kylo looked at her body, he was mesmerized. Rey noticed the look in his eyes as he surveyed her body and she was surprised that he seemed so pleased. She was not a big breasted woman, and that bothered her a bit, but it didn't matter to Kylo at all. He gently laid her back against the bed and began to run his hands across her breasts, gently caressing each one. 

"Rey, you're so beautiful to look at. You're perfect," he said.

Rey just accepted his compliments, relieved that he liked what he saw. She closed her eyes and allowed herself to enjoy the sensation of his tongue and lips on her breasts. His hands were also caressing her waistline as well while he pleasured her. She let out a sigh and then spoke his name, "B e n...., B e n....," she sighed again.

"Good, I want you to feel this way, Rey. You look beautiful when you're aroused," he said with that deep, sultry voice of his that drove her mad!

Rey loved hearing Kylo's own breathing increasing. She looked at him while he pleasured her and noticed the look of arousal in his eyes and demeanor. He was becoming more and more aroused and eventually took the lead by asking Rey to touch him.

"Rey, will you touch me?" he began, "I'd love to feel your hands on me," he said, guiding her hand to his crotch. 

When Rey felt his erection in his silk shorts, her heart pounded. He definitely didn't feel small in size, that much was for sure. She nodded 'yes' to him and then gently began to stroke him, feeling his hard length through his silk shorts. Kylo closed his eyes and let out a very deep breath and a low moans of pleasure. After a couple minutes of this, Kylo decided to remove his silk shorts and reveal all of himself to Rey now. 

Rey watched with nervous anticipation as he removed his silk shorts and what she saw took her breath away. He was NOT small. As a matter of fact, she wondered if she'd feel pain once he was inside of her. Of course, Kylo would do everything he could to be sure she didn't feel much pain and would move slowly.

Kylo did everything he could to prepare Rey's body for him to be inside of her. He asked her permission before doing anything to her body. She agreed to all of it, anything he asked to do, she wanted and trusted him and his love for her. 

"Rey," he spoke her name softly as he hovered over her and stroked her hair out off of her forehead, "may I touch you in ways that you may not be used to? It will prepare you for me to be inside of you."

After she agreed, Kylo used his mouth and his finger to pleasure her clit. He took his time and loved watching her reaction to the pleasure he was giving to her. Within a couple of minutes, Rey was gripping the bed sheets and her mouth was slightly opened as she looked down at him pleasuring her. 

"Ben, that feels so, so.....," she whispered with broken breaths.

"I know...., good," he sighed back to her, "I love doing this to you and watching you feel pleasure. The Force is helping me to feel your pleasure too."

"I can feel your pleasure as well, Ben," she replied in awe, "it's like the Force is heightening what I'm feeling with you."

"Oh Rey," Kylo spoke her name so softly and tenderly, "I love you so much," he said as he prepared to enter her body.

Rey watched as Kylo took himself in hand and rubbed the head of his length against her clit and then slowly began to enter her. He moved as slowly as he possibly could. He was keeping a close eye on her facial expressions just in case she showed any signs of pain. Rey may not have made love before, but she had heard from women on Jakku, and even on Ajan Kloss, that a woman's it's time could be painful, to some degree. As Kylo gently moved within her body he gasped with pleasure.

"You're so wet, warm and tight, Rey. Force, your body is beautiful and perfect for me," he said as he leaned down to kiss her passionately, first on her lips and then on her neck. Then he lifted up a bit and hovered over her as he pushed a bit more deeply into her and kept an eye on her expression again.

This time, as he was about three inches inside of her, moving slowly, he noticed she winced with pain and said, "Ben? Can you stop? You feel good, but at the same time, I'm a little uncomfortable."

"Yes, of course," he stopped immediately and had a very concerned look on his face, "I'm so sorry, Rey. I didn't mean to hurt you."

"I know you wouldn't ever hurt me on purpose, Ben, it's alright," she replied taking a few breaths and trying to let her body adjust to his larger size. Kylo leaned down and kept pressing soft and gentle kisses on her forehead while he waited for her to tell him when he could move again.

"Alright," she said as she gripped his hips, "you can try again, but please move slowly. You're not exactly small," she chuckled. 

As Kylo slowly thrust into her even more deeply, she spoke to him saying, "You have complimented my body ever since we started making love. I want  you to know that I find your body beautiful too. You feel so good inside of me, Ben, even if it's taking me time to adjust. I love you."

"This is the most euphoric and loving experience of my life," Rey sighed out to him.

"Me too," Kylo said, "it's never been this intimate for me before with anyone."

After a few more slow thrusts, Kylo was now fully inside of Rey's body. He stilled himself within her, again giving her a chance to adjust to him. As he stayed still, he kept kissing her on the lips and neck and she kept rubbing his back and down his arms and whispering into his ear how much she loved him and how good his body felt to her. The warmth of them skin to skin was something they'd never forget.

It wasn't long before Kylo rolled onto his back and asked Rey to follow his lead and straddle him. He pulled out of her momentarily as she sat on top of him now. He explained to her that she would feel intense pleasure in this position and even be able to manage how deep she wanted him to go. 

It didn't take long after Kylo gently began to guide Rey to grind her hips against him that she started feeling her very first climax rising. Her entire body was feeling it and it was overwhelming for her. Kylo sensed her climax was near and he wanted to share it with her at the same time.

"Can I come with you?" he asked within panting and broken breaths, his black raven hair slightly wet from the perspiration of their lovemaking. 

"Yes, Ben, yes.....," she sighed out to him.

They were so LOST in one another, so Bonded by the Force that the climax they both experienced at the same time sent them into overwhelming euphoric sounds of moaning joy as they spoke one another's names out loud. They clung to one another so tightly, grasping and nearly clawing at one another since the intensity was so great. 

Kylo's breathing was more labored than Rey ever expected as he agreed with her saying, "Rey, yes, this is the most euphoric and loving experience I've ever had," he kissed her passionately, "I love you so dearly and will love you for the rest of my life."

Chapter Text

Chapter 13: The 'Morning After' Gets Interesting!

All was quiet on board the Falcon. The only sound that could be heard was the low humming of the engines and minor systems running while Kylo and Rey slept in one another's arms. After making love, they fell into the most relaxed, deep sleep either of them had had in so long. Kylo held onto Rey as she lay in his arms while they slept and she wrapped her right arm around him tightly, holding onto him as if for dear life. They thought they were in love before? Now their love had been consummated, and they were more in love and bonded than ever. 

They had been sleeping soundly for about six hours when Kylo finally stirred awake. He wasn't used to the sounds on board the Falcon anymore since he'd been living on board the Finalizer for so long and due to the fact that it had been years since he'd seen the Falcon, so a certain sound woke him. He was careful not to disturb Rey, or wake her, and carefully threw his legs over the side of the bed and put on a lose black shirt and his leather pants and then walked the Falcon's corridors until he reached the kitchen area. Once he got there, he realized that the sound was nothing more than some of the refrigeration units working to keep their food and drinks cold. He chuckled to himself and then started rummaging around to find a way to make he and Rey a cup of Caf for when she woke up.

He accidentally dropped a cup on the floor of the kitchen and was worried it might wake Rey, but thankfully it didn't wake her and she remained happily asleep. Kylo continued his rummaging through cabinets until he found the Caf maker and some Caf in a drawer. He spoke out loud to himself saying, "Things have changed in this ship over the years, the Caf used to be stored somewhere different," he shook his head.

After putting on a pot of Caf for he and Rey, he let her sleep for a while longer while he poured himself a cup and then went to sit in the cockpit and look at the colorful nebula outside their window while he enjoyed his hot Caf. He leaned back in the pilot's chair with a small yawn, took another sip, and then smiled as he thought about the night before with Rey when they'd made love. Her innocence touched his heart, along with the fact that even though she'd been nervous to be intimate with him, she chose to trust him anyway. That was a gift to his heart that he'd never forget.

As Kylo was sitting there admiring the view out the window and sipping on his Caf, Rey came walking down the corridor looking for him. Kylo caught sight of her and it took his breath away. She was wearing those same silk pajamas that he'd sent up to her quarters a couple of days earlier and a silk robe to go with it. 

"Ben?" she asked, yawning sleepily, "you up here?" 

"Right here, Rey," Kylo said back to her, "I'm up in the cockpit sipping on Caf and enjoying the view out the window."

Rey yawned yet again as she walked into the cockpit and saw Kylo seated in the pilot's chair and said, "Morning," she began and then she teased him and continued, "hey, that's my chair you're sitting in, Supreme Leader," she chuckled.

Kylo smiled, gave her a quick wink and then stood up, "Oh, we can't have that, can we?" and he moved to the co-pilot's seat and then motioned with his hand, "here  you go, Empress, your chair back," he teased her in return.

"Now that's more like it," she replied as she leaned over and gave him a kiss, "now, a good morning kiss for you. I'll be patient with you today, even if it takes all my effort," she joked with him again.

"Well, I know what you're fully capable of if you decide NOT to be patient with me," he smiled, "do you want me to pour you a cup of Caf? I made some fresh a littlle while ago. You can enjoy this sight of the nebula with me?"

"Sure, thanks," she replied as she stretched a bit in her chair.

Rey watched as Kylo left the cockpit to go get her a cup of Caf and she smiled to herself in wonder that as the Supreme Leader, commanded millions, men feared him and yet here he was, playing 'servan't to her and grabbing her a cup of Caf. As she sat alone in the cockpit or a couple of minutes, she took kept remembering and re-living every second of their lovemaking from the night before. She felt her heart racing again and this euphoric and 'cloud nine' feeling come over her. She'd never known sex could be so loving and intimate. The other women she'd spoken to about it on either Jakku or Ajan Kloss always said the experience was not very pleasant or that the man was the only one to get pleasure from it. She knew now that Kylo made sure she had pleasure and that he was most definitely not a selfish lover. She could hardly wait until their next time making love!

Kylo reappeared with a cup of Caf in his hand for her. He handed it to her and then leaned over to give her a kiss again and said, "I love you. I can't stop thinking about last night between us, Rey."

"Me either," she replied, taking the Caf from him, "you  made my first experience so loving, intimate and something I'll never forget."

Kylo ran his hand along Rey's cheek and then brushed some of her hair out of her face and replied, "I'm so in love with you. I've never known this type of love or intimacy with anyone but you."

As soon as Kylo said this, the proximity alarms began to sound on the Falcon's console. Rey immediately set her Caf down and looked over the console and so did Kylo. 

"The proximity alarm," Rey mentioned out loud to herself in confusion as she looked out the window, "I don't have a visual yet of any ship in the area, however, the Falcon's sensors were recently upgraded and it could be that we're picking up a ship farther out or one that is headed this way at light speed."

Rey worked some of the controls and Kylo did the same right along within her. The proximity alarms kept sounding and then finally Kylo said, "Look," he pointed, "there is a ship approaching at light speed," he paused, "actually, two ships. One appears to be quite large and the other ship appears to be a single man fighter."

Kylo continued, "I know it's been a while since I've been on board this ship, but it's weapons systems are no match for a confrontation right now with a command ship that is approaching us. We either raise our shields, stay and try to fight off whoever it is, or we jump to light speed right now and get out of here. If we were in my Command Shuttle, we would have the firepower and tech to combat whatever threat came our way, but not in this ship."

"Hey, the Falcon still has some life left in her," Rey protested playfully, "why don't we wait to see what kind of ships these are first," she paused and worked the controls, "look, I can get an engine signature from the larger ship now," she paused yet again and then continued, "it appears to be a Resistance ship, your mother's ship, the Raddus as a matter of fact. They are most likely out looking for me and happened to pick the Falcon up on the Raddus' sensors and are headed right this way."

"Not a moment's peace?" Kylo shook his head, "I just wanted at least one day and one night cycle alone with you and now this?" he replied as he too looked over the sensor read outs, then he continued, "didn't you say you were going to your base to visit the Resistance soon to explain why you joined me? We should probably jump to light speed now, head back to the Finalizer and then you can take the Falcon to your base later today or tomorrow to speak with them."

"They won't open fire on this ship with me on it. The Falcon also belongs to your family. I doubt your mother will try to destroy it by using her weapons from the Raddus. Why don't we see what they want?" Rey suggested.

"Very well, if that's what you want," Kylo paused, "I, for one, do not wish to see or deal with the Resistance right now, but if you'd prefer to stay, we can."

No sooner did Kylo reply to Rey that the Raddus and a couple of X-Wings dropped out of light speed and stopped not far from their location. 

"So much for our time alone," Rey remarked as she waited to see if Leia would open a COMM channel to the Falcon.

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

Poe Dameron was on the bridge of the Raddus and approached Leia and gave her a report, "General, our tactical officers have confirmed that the ship we're coming up on is indeed the Falcon. Orders?"

Leia sighed and looked outside the window as they dropped out of light speed. She finally saw the Falcon come within visual range and she replied, "Do nothing for now. It could be Rey on board. If we open fire, we will not only damage the Falcon, but possibly anyone on board. Have you run any scans for life signs on board the Falcon yet?"

"Yes," Poe replied, "there are two life signs. One is male, the other is female. My assumption is that Rey and some First Order officer is on board with her? That's my guess."

Leia nodded, "It's not just ANY First Order officer, it's most likely my son, Ben that is on board with her," she paused, "do not open fire. I'm not willing to fire on my own son or on Rey. Open a COMM channel to them though immediately," she ordered.

"Yes, General," Poe replied, "and if you need me to man an X-Wing, let me know."

"Oh no you don't," Leia began as she pointed her finger at him, "last time you manned an X-Wing I ordered you not to open fire on that First Order Dreadnought and you disobeyed my orders. For now, you're not manning any X-Wings until you can prove to me you can follow my orders. For now, just open a COMM channel them. Understand?"

"Yes," Poe nodded and then he obeyed Leia's orders and opened a COMM channel to the Falcon and then continued, "General, I wouldn't doubt that your son and Rey are having some kind of 'lovers tryst' right now on board the Falcon," he said sarcastically.

Leia shook her head with impatience and replied, "Poe, just do as I've asked and get your head back onto your duties."

Right before Poe could open the COMM channel to the Falcon, suddenly, several First Order TIE fighters showed up and dropped out of light speed, along with Kylo's flag ship, the Finalizer. Both Kylo and Rey saw the Finalizer drop out of light speed, along with the TIE fighters and then their COMM sounded.

"Yes, Supreme Leader here," Kylo answered.

"Supreme Leader, General Pryde here. Sir, we detected several Resistance vessels converging on your location on long range sensors and I ordered the Finalizer here, along with our TIE fighters to give you any back up, should you need it."

"Very good, General, however, if we can avoid confrontation with the Raddus right now, that's what I want, but you did well by showing up here. Stay put until  you hear orders from me," Kylo ordered.

"Very good, Sir," General Pryde replied.

The Finalizer loomed large outside the window of the Falcon's cockpit and both Kylo and Rey knew this could get interesting very soon. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 14: Possible Conspiracy and a Visit to Ajan Kloss

"Supreme Leader, General Pryde here. Sir, we detected several Resistance vessels converging on your location on long range sensors, and I ordered the Finalizer here, along with our TIE fighters, to give you any back up, should you need it."

"Very good, General, however, if we can avoid confrontation with the Raddus right now, that's what I want, but you did well by showing up here. Stay put until  you hear orders from me," Kylo ordered.

"Very good, Sir," General Pryde replied.

The Finalizer loomed large outside the window of the Falcon's cockpit and both Kylo and Rey knew this could get interesting very soon. 

Rey was at the console working quickly to open COMMs with the Raddus and speak with Leia. She didn't want them open firing on them. The Falcon could definitely hold it's own in a fire fight, and was very well equipped with updated weapons tech when but it was no match for the Raddus and that's why Rey knew that the Finalizer came onto the scene to offer backup to she and Kylo.

Kylo listened as Rey spoke with Leia, "This is Rey, I repeat, this is Rey. Whoever is receiving this transmission, do not open fire. The Supreme Leader is also on board the Falcon with me and we are on a peaceful flight. No need to exchange weapons fire."

There was silence for a few seconds and then Leia came onto the COMM and replied, "Rey, you have no idea how good it is to hear your voice. We, however, tracked the Falcon here to this sector and followed your engine signature. We picked the Falcon up on long range sensors. We assumed you had escaped the First Order and we were coming to rescue you."

Rey sighed, "It's always good to hear your voice too, Leia, but did you and the Resistance see the galaxy-wide broadcast that the Supreme Leader and I made the other day? I've joined your son and am now Empress of this galaxy. I have not had a change of heart, nor have I changed my mind and trying to escape. The Supreme Leader and I are on a peaceful mission. I was going to bring the Falcon to our base on Ajan Kloss shortly to visit all of you and explain in more detail."

"Rey," Leia interjected quickly, "if you say the Supreme Leader is there with you, then you just openly and verbally gave away the location of our new base."

"I know that," Rey replied, "Ben is trustworthy. He wants peace between Light and Dark. That's why he asked me to rule with him. He will not attack Ajan Kloss. As Empress, I wouldn't allow it anyway."

As soon as Kylo heard her say this, he was impressed that she felt confident to begin using her authority right away and just sat quietly listening. Poe and Finn were also on board the bridge of the Raddus and were hearing what Rey had said to Leia. Poe waked over to Leia and said under his breath, "So, Rey and Ren are on a 'peaceful' mission? I doubt it's a mission at all. My guess is they spent a night alone on board the Falcon doing, let's say...., other things, things like lovers would do."

Leia rolled her eyes at Poe and said, "Poe, lower your voice. She might hear you," she muted the COMM or a moment and continued, "get back to your post, Poe. Let me handle this with Rey and my son."

Poe nodded and obeyed, returning to his duty post.

Leia continued, "Rey, yes, we did see the broadcast. What I don't understand is what possessed you to join the First Order and allow yourself to become Empress!? I don't understand. You were sent on a mission to explore the possibility that the First Order might be making plans for another Death Star or Star Killer Base."

"Leia, it's too much for me to explain over a COMM conversation. Be assured, the Supreme Leader, and the First Order, do not have plans to build another Death Star or Star Killer Base. As a matter of fact, Ben told me this personally. Also, when Snoke destroyed the Hosnian System, Ben couldn't do anything to stop it," she paused, "Please, turn around and go back to our base. I promise I will visit you tomorrow on Ajan Kloss and take my time explaining everything.

"I don't know, Rey, our intelligence officers have intercepted some very convincing chatter that there ARE plans to make another Death Star, or something like it. You had better have my son look into that again."

Rey paused for a moment while she was on the COMM with Leia, looked over at Kylo and asked, "Ben, perhaps you'd better dig more deeply into these allegations. What if it's true? What if certain factions within your ranks in the First Order ARE planning such a thing? Shouldn't we look more deeply into this?"

Kylo nodded, "Yes. I will check into this more thoroughly. My mother and I may not be on speaking terms, but not only does she use the Force and can sense things as I can, but she must have enough credible evidence to take things this far. I will conduct a thorough investigation into the officers on my own flag ship and on board other destroyers in the First Order and verify if anything the Resistance is saying is true," he replied.

Leia could hear what Kylo's response was over the COMM as he answered Rey! This was the first time she'd heard her son's voice in years. Leia replied, "Rey, I know my son won't want to speak with me right now, but please thank him for being willing to look into this matter. I assure you, there are some factions within the First Order ranks that want another Death Star. My son had better look into this. I assure you, our intelligence is good."

Kylo spoke up to Rey and said, "If this is true, then some of these high ranking officers of mine are plotting such a thing behind my back and without my consent. If I do find out that the Resistance's intelligence is accurate, I will deal with those officers involved harshly and they will pay with their lives for treason or acting without my permission."

Rey was concerned about killing some of Kylo's officers over treason, but she resolved it within herself to discuss this with Kylo later. Now was not the time. She merely nodded to Kylo and then resumed speaking to Leia saying, "Leia, please give me until tomorrow. Please take the Raddus back to Ajan Kloss. I will be there to explain everything. Believe me, my decision to do what I've done is based on the Force's will," she paused, "also, I will order the Finalizer to leave the area once we land in their hangar bay."

"You will order the Finalizer?" Leia asked with shock?

"Yes, I can give any orders to every officer on board the Finalizer now. I'm Empress," she replied matter-of-factly, then she continued, "may I also ask if Ben can accompany me to our meeting tomorrow on Ajan Kloss? He will come in peace and with no hostile intentions, I assure you."

Kylo nodded quietly to Rey that he was in agreement.

Leia replied, "I will always love my son, Rey, no matter what our political differences are, or which side of the Force we both use, but how can I trust allowing him there? What if the rest of the First Order finds out that Ajan Kloss is our base of operation?"

Kylo stood to his feet now to speak directly with his mother and replied, "Mother, it's me, Ben," he paused, not sure entirely how to 'word' what came out of his mouth next, but then he continued, "you have my word, as Supreme Leader and as your son, I will accompany Rey on the Falcon. I will not bring any First Order ships with me, not even my Command Shuttle. i will keep my location a secret from even my most trusted advisors and officers. I will not come with hostile intentions, but to try to explain why Rey and I are doing this. You are a Force user just as I am. My goal is to speak with you on that level, not make war with  your people."

Leia considered her son's offer and then finally replied, "Very well. As long as you come with Rey in the Falcon and not a First Order vessel, then I will welcome you to talks on our base,"she replied.

Suddenly, Finn and Poe Rose up in protest and crossed the bridge to speak with Leia about their concerns. Leia shut them both up saying, "You both stand down, now! I've made my decision. Rey and my son are visiting us tomorrow and they swear by the Force that they are coming in peace. I am powerful with the Force enough to sense if they were lying to me. They are not. Now, get back to your posts before I demote both of you!" she ordered.

Poe was angry and cursed in anger replying, "Kriff it! Kriff!" but before he could stomp off angrily back to his post, Leia stopped him.

"Poe," Leia began, "come here."

Poe stood there shaking his head with his hands on his hips, "Yes, General?"

"Now you ARE demoted!"

"As soon as you learn, Poe, that you are not the one in command here, the sooner you will fall in line!" Leia said loudly and then went back to speaking with Rey on the COMM.

"Rey, we will see you and my son tomorrow on Ajan Kloss. We agree no First Order ships are to be there and that you will arrive only in the Falcon?"

"Yes, Leia, you have our word," Rey replied.

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Kylo was beginning to become suspicious that some members of the officers within the First Order could possibly be planning another Death Star or Star Killer Base and, after his visit to Ajan Kloss with Rey, he was going to look into it. He will eventually find out that there IS a conspiracy to act without his permission to try to put a new Death Star into motion. He will quickly deal with the situation and end it, possibly executing certain officers for treason. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 15: A Visit To Ajan Kloss  (Part 1)

The Finalizer stayed in close proximity to the Falcon and the Raddus jumped to light speed to head back to Ajan Kloss and await Kylo and Rey's visit.  Rey docked the Falcon once again in the Finalizer's hangar bay, but before they disembarked the ship, Kylo shared his heart with her first.

"Rey, before we are out in front of the public again, I just wanted to tell you that making love with you last night meant absolutely everything to me," he said.

Rey took hold of his gloved hand and replied, "You made my first time so memorable, tender and loving. I have to admit it was different than I expected."

"In what way?" he asked. 

"Being that it was my first time, I didn't expect to have any pleasure. Most women have told me they didn't have any pleasure their first time. The way you touched me, the way you made me feel, was euphoric for me," she paused and rubbed his fingers in hers and continued, "also, I have mostly known and seen the harsher side of your nature. You surprised me at how tender a lover you were last night and so selfless."

Kylo smiled and nodded, giving Rey a slight chuckle and then a more serious look and replied, "When it comes to you, I will never show anything but love and tenderness. Even before we decided to enter this relationship, Snoke noticed that I had feelings for you. He confronted me about it," he paused, "I love you, Rey. Just being with you, touching you, holding you, being inside of you evoked the most tender feelings in me. I will never be harsh with you and I'm glad you experienced pleasure for your first time."

"Did I make you feel good? I mean, did I do everything right?" she asked, feeling a bit worried about his reply.

"Rey, let's just say that I felt extreme pleasure. There is no right or wrong way. You made me feel loved and I had intense pleasure being with you, yes," he replied as he leaned over to kiss her, "it was just being with you as I've hoped for so long that makes me complete."

They lowered the ramp of the Falcon and then went back to their quarters for the night to try to get some decent sleep before a very long day the following day when they traveled to Ajan Kloss for talks!

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"General Organa," Rose Tico began, "I'm picking up the Falcon on our sensors. I believe it's most likely Rey and Ren," she paused, "I mean your son."

Leia nodded, "Very good. Give them clearance to land," she paused, "it might be awkward to have my son here, but welcomed. I've missed him."

Rose didn't now what to say to Leia's statement because she had only known Kylo as a feared enemy and dictator but she replied politely, "I just hope everything goes peacefully today, General."

"it will. My son is not coming here with hostile intentions. If what he and Rey say is true, then they are trying to obey the will of the Force by bringing balance."

Shortly thereafter, Rose opened the COMM to the Falcon and gave Rey and Kylo permission to land on Ajan Kloss. As the Falcon made it's descent into the atmosphere, Kylo looked out the window with quite an impressed look on his face, "So this is your base," he paused as he looked around at the scenery, "very tropical moon."

"Yes, we've loved it here. Perfect temperatures, perfect flora, food, animal life," she paused and then landed the Falcon and continued, "ready? Come follow my lead since you're dealing with my people today. Some of them will not be happy you are here, much less than I am Empress now of the very Regime they are against, so try to follow my lead at times and keep the peace, alright? I know it might not be easy for you today, but try to bear with this?"

"I'll do my best, Rey. I will be speaking my mind, but I will do what I can to keep it peaceful. You have my word."

As soon as Kylo and Rey stepped outside the Falcon, Leia and most of the Resistance members came out to greet them. Most of the Resistance had very anxious feelings not knowing how to receive this visit, especially with Kylo being here. 

Leia held out  her hand to Rey and said, "Rey, it's good you're here. We will miss you living here with us, but you said you're here to explain WHY you joined my son? Follow me and we'll find a more private place to speak."

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

Leia led Kylo and Rey inside the main compound of the base. Poe Dameron, Finn and  Rose Tico, along with several others also accompanied them. Some of Leia's security detail followed her, but she declined and said, "No, my son didn't bring any soldiers or security here. I don't want that either. We are all here in peace today," she ordered.

Leia's security detail nodded and then walked back off to their posts, leaving Leia alone with Kylo and Rey and several other Resistance members. Once they all took a seat, Rey began to explain in great detail to Leia why she joined Kylo and what the vision and will of the Force truly was and how she and Kylo were called by the Force to fulfill that vision and prophecy for balance in the galaxy.

As everyone sat at the table listening to Rey explain why she joined Kylo, a few of them were not entirely convinced, nor did they trust Kylo. Leia did her best to quell any anger or tension that arose in the room, but still, some spoke up voicing their concerns.

Rose Tico spoke up and interjected, "Rey, I trust YOU. It's not you we don't trust, but are we really supposed to believe Kylo Ren, who is now your boyfriend, a dictator in this galaxy can be trusted? He uses the Dark Side and used to serve under Snoke. How do we have assurance that things will change or that balance will be brought."

"Rose, you just said you trust me, right?" Rey began, "so, why not trust me now? I've just explained everything to you all and nothing I've said has been a lie. Just because Ben uses the Dark Side doesn't mean he doesn't want the galaxy to prosper. I will let him speak now and express his own feelings to you on this matter."

Kylo nodded to Rey and then spoke not only to Rose, but to everyone else in the room and replied, "I know each of you here today feel my regime will be no different than that of the late Emperor Palpatine or Snoke. Nothing is farther from the truth. The Force started giving me visions of balance a year or so ago and then the Force began to connect Rey and myself into a Force Dyad, a Force Bond," he paused, "to make a very long story short, I am not Snoke. I intend to obey the Force's will to have Rey join me, rule beside me equally and help me bring balance. Also, with Rey at my side, those who use the Light Side will be heard. When Rey and I make laws, both sides of the Force will be considered. If I had hostile intentions toward you, I would have brought my flag ship into orbit here, along with transports of troops. I didn't. I ordered my ship to stay far away from Ajan Kloss. I've come in peace and so has Rey."

"What about how you will treat Rey? Do you really love her or are you just using her to suit your own ends and purposes?" Poe asked.

Kylo felt his temper rising a bit and he replied, "I would never mistreat her. I love her. Besides, the question you are asking is a very personal one."

Leia looked over at Poe and interjected, "He's right. That is a personal question. Let's keep things to the main topic, shall we?"

Poe nodded and stayed silent.

Kylo continued, "Dark Siders are not without compassion. I am concerned for the well fare of every citizen in this galaxy. Rey and I have already begun to discuss new laws that incorporate Light and Dark side voices and considerations," he paused, "this government will be a much different regime than the late Palpatine or Snoke. Under Snoke, he never would have allowed balance for this galaxy, under my regime, balance will come to pass."

"See?" Poe continued, "you're speaking of 'regime' and 'my government', etc., you're still a dictator that uses the Dark Side. It's going to take us all time to trust you."

"Don't you think the feeling is mutual for me, Mr. Dameron? Everyone who has ever used the Light Side has either tried to kill me, send me away or abandon me. So, I also must learn to trust as well," he replied.

Leia knew exactly what her son was referring to when he mentioned a Light Sider trying kill him. She knew it was Luke he was referring to. She also knew that she'd sent Kylo away when he was a teenager due to his use of the Dark Side. She said nothing but tried to get the conversation back on track once again.

"Well, I for one, want to trust what you and Rey will be doing. I'm not going to be adjusted to calling Rey 'Empress' for some time yet. I'm used to being her commanding officer, but now it seems she out ranks me," she smiled, trying to lighten the moment, "I'm glad that we can have these initial talks. I'm looking forward to what the Force has planned for this galaxy."

The talks continued for about couple of hours before Kylo and Rey took their leave of Ajan Kloss and boarded the Falcon to head back to the Finalizer. Leia did not seem to mind that Rey was using the Falcon and she was beginning to finally trust that her son just might be telling the truth about peace and balance. Once Kylo and Rey had left, the Resistance spent the rest of the day discussing all that had taken place. Some believed Kylo and Rey, while others had very mixed feelings.

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

Once Kylo and Rey were back on board the Finalizer they were met by Allegiant General Pryde. He had a very disturbing report for Kylo and Rey.

"Supreme Leader, Empress," he began, "welcome home. I have a rather disturbing report to give you both. Apparently the intelligence that the Resistance has intercepted is accurate. It appears we may have some high ranking officers within the First Order that are trying to find contractors to build another type of Death Star or Star Killer Base weapon, Sir. Our own intelligence officers are doing a thorough investigation as we speak."

Kylo's expression changed to one of anger and he replied, "Have my Knights get involved as well. I will find out who these traitors are and deal with them. Once I find out who they are, I will show no mercy!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 16: A Visit To Ajan Kloss (Part 2)

Once Kylo and Rey were back on board the Finalizer they were met by Allegiant General Pryde. He had a very disturbing report for Kylo and Rey.

"Supreme Leader, Empress," he began, "welcome home. I have a rather disturbing report to give you both. Apparently the intelligence that the Resistance has intercepted is accurate. It appears we may have some high ranking officers within the First Order that are trying to find contractors to build another type of Death Star or Star Killer Base weapon, Sir. Our own intelligence officers are doing a thorough investigation as we speak."

Kylo's expression changed to one of anger and he replied, "Have my Knights get involved as well. I will find out who these traitors are and deal with them. Once I find out who they are, I will show no mercy!"

Allegiant General Pryde replied with a respectful nod, "Yes, Supreme Leader, as you wish."

Rey interjected, "Allegiant General," she began, 'I know I'm new to being here in the First Order and I know some of you may not trust me, nor are adjusted to the idea of me being here, but please hear me out," she continued, "I want the Supreme Leader's Knights to travel two by two. They should go in pairs so they have back up for one another, secondly, I want intelligence officers to be stationed at listening posts throughout the galaxy. Having been in the Resistance this past year, I'm pretty familiar with where your listening posts are. The intelligence officers are to report back to you, myself or the Supreme Leader every two hours, I don't care how insignificant the information may seem, I want updates," she ordered.

Of course, General Pryde was NOT used to Rey giving orders and he looked over at Kylo first, almost as if he were asking for Kylo's permission to carry out Rey's orders. 

"You heard the Empress, General," Kylo began, "do as she's said."

"Apparently our intelligence work here in the First Order is NOT what it should be if the Jedi from the Resistance knows where each of our listening posts are?" 

"She is your Empress now," Kylo replied, "she gave you instructions. Obviously, the Resistance's intelligence is better than we thought, but that is of no consequence now. Follow through with her orders," Kylo replied

Again, General Pryde nodded with a bow, "Yes, Supreme Leader, Empress, it will be done as you've asked," he paused and looked directly at Kylo and continued, "Sir, may I ask how the talks with the Resistance went?"

"Surprisingly well," Kylo began, "none of us acted hostile toward one another and the Empress and I managed to get our point across, I believe. It will take time for both sides to trust the other, but I know the Force will accomplish this."

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

As Kylo and Rey were walking the corridors Kylo mentioned something to Rey he hoped she'd go along with. 

"Rey," he began, "I know we're both tired. It's been a very long and tiring day, however, I don't know how well I can sleep knowing there are officers out there trying to go behind my back and build a super weapon without my authorization. Do you mind coming with me to the bridge? I want to speak with some of our intelligence offices there and get right on this. I also want to stay on the bridge long enough to get some kind of response or deeper intelligence. Are you up for this with me or would you rather get some rest?"

"I'll come with you," she replied, "I want answers just as much as you do. Let's go to the bridge and see if we can make any headway."

"I was proud of you back there when you gave orders to General Pryde without hesitation. Continue to do so, regardless of whether they are used to you being here or not. They will soon learn to take orders from you and respect you," he replied.

"I will," she replied with a smile as they continued toward the bridge rather than go to bed early that night.

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

Of course, as soon as Kylo and Rey entered the bridge, many of the officers there stood at attention. General Hux was present, along with Tishra Kandia, one of Kylo's top intelligence officers, to give them a briefing on the situation.

As soon as officer Kandia saw Kylo and Rey enter the bridge, she bowed slightly toward them, showing respect, and then approached them both and said, "Supreme Leader, Empress," she paused, "I was just informing General Hux of our intelligence situation."

"Yes?" Rey asked curiously.

Officer Kandia continued, "It appears, Empress, that we do have a problem on our hands. Those loyal to you and the Supreme Leader have intercepted intelligence that suggests that there are indeed traitors in our midst. And, what I mean by that is this: These men and women are working secretly, so they believe, to build another super weapon. They are against the Supreme Leader's attempts to unite the Dark and Light Side and bring balance. They want the First Order to be ruled by the Dark side only and believe if they can construct this super weapon, they will give the First Order the pre-eminence once and for all over the galaxy," Kandia paused again, "I know Supreme Leader," she looked at Kylo directly and continued, "the First Order already has the governing authority in this galaxy and has no need for another Star Killler Base or Death Star, however, there are those who are against your and the Empress' plan for balance."

Kylo nodded, "I see," Kylo replied, "this is the intelligence report I was hoping for when we arrived on the bridge. Good work," he paused, "the Empress has ordered that any officers or high ranking officials within the First Order that have operated secretly behind my back to try to create another super weapon, of course without my authorization, are to be brought in for questioning. I'm sending out my Knights and will collaborate with the Resistance and General Organa as well for intelligence options as well. Anyone you and our intelligence officers find that are collaborators in this insubordination against myself, the Empress and the Force's plan will be brought before me and put into detention cells for questioning. I most likely will NOT spare their lives for their treason, but I want them brought in anyway for questioning. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," Officer Kandia replied, "there are those of us who are loyal to you, our new Empress and the vision you have for the galaxy as our Supreme Leader. I will find them, Sir, and bring them here to the Finalizer. We will hold them to account."

Kylo nodded, "I trust as my top intelligence officer you will get this job done."

As soon as Kylo said this to Officer Kandia, a communications Lieutenant Mitaka and a communications officer approached Kylo, Kandia and Rey and said, "Pardon the interruption, Supreme Leader, however, our intelligence officers on board the Finalizer have localized and targeted a transmission that was coming from this ship. It appears the person was trying to 'mask' their communications with encryption, however, our intelligence has broken through. We know the exact location and the post that this communication was went from,"' he paused, "it appears that this transmission was sent out to two other commanders on board destroyers in this sector regarding the building of his super weapon against your wishes, Sir."

Kylo was wearing his mask, so his expression was not visible, but everyone could hear the tone of his voice and the body language he was putting out and knew he was filled with wrath as he replied, "Bring this officer to the throne room at once. He or she will stand before the Empress and I this very night and give account," he paused, "as far as the other two destroyer Commanders, send my Knights to recover them for questioning. I want them in our brig by tomorrow for questioning. As of right now, retrieve the traitor from his quarters this instant and bring him before the Empress and I within the hour. She and I will be waiting," he ordered.

Chapter Text

Chapter 17: Officer Hardings is Brought Before Kylo and Rey in the Throne Room

As soon as Kylo said this to Officer Kandia, a communications Lieutenant Mitaka approached Kylo, Kandia and Rey and said, "Pardon the interruption, Supreme Leader, however, our intelligence officers on board the Finalizer have localized and targeted a transmission that was coming from this ship. It appears the person was trying to 'mask' their communications with encryption, however, our intelligence has broken through. We know the exact location and the post that this communication was went from,"' he paused, "it appears that this transmission was sent out to two other commanders on board destroyers in this sector regarding the building of his super weapon against your wishes, Sir."

Kylo was wearing his mask, so his expression was not visible, but everyone could hear the tone of his voice and the body language he was putting out and knew he was filled with wrath as he replied, "Bring this officer to the throne room at once. He or she will stand before the Empress and I this very night and give account," he paused, "as far as the other two destroyer Commanders, send my Knights to recover them for questioning. I want them in our brig by tomorrow for questioning. As of right now, retrieve the traitor from his quarters this instant and bring him before the Empress and I within the hour. She and I will be waiting," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader, I will see to it," Lieutenant Mitaka replied with a slight bow.

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde  continued, "I have given the order for the two star destroyer commanders to be brought to the Finalizer as soon as possible for interrogation. They will be placed in our brig for further questioning."

Kylo nodded and then extended his arm to Rey and said to her, "Let's go to our throne room. There we will wait."

Rey slid her arm through his, nodded and replied "Yes, we will wait there, however, before we arrive here, I have something of a more private matter to speak with you about along the way."

"Of course," Kylo replied as they both left the bridge. 

Once they were walking through the corridors, and headed for the throne room, Rey spoke quietly under her breath to Kylo about what was on her mind, "Ben, would you please remove your mask for a few moments, at least while we're walking to the throne room? I want to see you, and see your expression, while I'm sharing something with you."

Kylo stopped in the corridor for a moment, removed his mask without hesitation, and held it in his right hand and continued, "Sure. Go ahead, Rey."

Kylo held his mask in his hand and Rey slid her arm back through his and then she continued, "I realize that as Supreme Leader and Empress we are going to hold people responsible for insubordination and for treason. That goes without saying. Even in the Resistance your mother would not tolerate insubordination either, and would enact disciplinary action, however," she paused for a long few seconds, "this is where I might suggest bringing the Light Side into things. I'm suggesting we not execute anyone. I realize under First Order law that execution for treason is the standard procedure, however, I'm asking for life in prison rather than death. As a Jedi, I am not opposed to killing in self defense or disciplining someone for insubordination, but if we do not send a message through execution, I'd rather we do so that way. Jedi look for the most peaceful solution before killing."

Kylo nodded as they walked along. His long leather cape billowed behind him as they made their way together through the corridor. Every person that passed by them nodded in reverence to them both as they made their way to the throne room.

"I see," Kylo nodded, trying to keep his voice lower so that those who were passing by them did not overhear their conversation and then he replied, "Rey, I must set an example. I have two commanders on Star destroyers trying to work against me to build a super weapon without my consent. This is a grievous and insubordinate act behind my back. I must set an example that I will not tolerate such behavior or it could incite more officers within the First Order to test me. Some would like nothing better than to 'test' me and see what they can get away with. My regime is more merciful than Snoke's. Simply by having you, a Jedi and Light Sider, ruling beside me is unheard of, even as far back as the days of the Empire, so there are plenty who are waiting in the wings just to test me and challenge my authority."

"I understand that too," Rey began, "but this is where compromise comes in. I'm asking you to consider what I'm saying. There are ways to discipline officers for insubordination and set an example of them without resorting to execution. I have no problem using my saber to kill someone when I'm in combat, out of self defense or protecting you in battle as well when we're fighting as a team together, but in this instance, I'm leaning more on the side of life in prison or labor camps rather than a death sentence. Please consider what I'm suggesting?"

The way Rey 'implored' Kylo with those hazel eyes of hers always touched Kylo deeply. He was struggling to deny her anything. Just one look into her face, her eyes, and her expression melted him. Only SHE had the ability to soften him. No one else could reach Kylo about someone, or something, once his mind was made up, only Rey had that kind of influence over him. She was his only soft spot and he knew it even though he didn't voice it often.

Kylo was listening to her closely, and once they arrived in the throne room, they closed the door behind them to have more privacy to continue their conversation. Kylo set his mask down on his throne and then took Rey by both of her hands. Rey still loved the feel of the warm leather of his gloves against her fingers as he peered deeply down into her eyes and asked, "Rey, my instincts tell me to execute these men to set an example but as I said here looking into your eyes and hearing the pleading in your voice, it's difficult for me to deny you," he paused.

Kylo leaned in and pressed his warm, soft lips to hers. She melted into his kiss and then they locked eyes as he continued, "I will consider what you're suggesting. It's in my nature to execute anyone for insubordination. This act of defiance these men are plotting is no small matter, Rey. They are proposing a large scale weapon that could destroy entire worlds, just like Star Killer base or the death star. I have to act in such a way that sends a message to the First Order, and to the galaxy, that I will not tolerate this, however, I will take into consideration what you're suggesting."

Rey let go of Kylo's gloved hands and then took a seat on her throne and continued, "I am not saying I don't understand the importance of setting an example here with your high ranking officers over this, I'm simply stating there are ways to discipline them without resorting to a death sentence."

Kylo took his seat on his throne next to Rey and replied, "You're not upset with me, are you?"

Rey sighed, "Not angry, but concerned. If things are going to change in this galaxy, and if you and I are going to be seen as a catalyst for change, then we have to work together in compromise to make that happen. If I cannot bring some changes into this regime, then I shouldn't be ruling beside you. Perhaps you'd like to go back to ruling alone?"

Kylo immediately felt 'struck to the heart' at hearing Rey's words and he took her by the hand and said, "Look, the officer they found in his quarters sending out these private and encrypted messages will be standing before you and I momentarily. I want to resolve this with  you before he arrives. Rey, I don't want to go back to ruling alone. That's not what I'm suggesting. I'm just very adamant about making the example I set harsh enough that no more officers within the First Order will consider crossing me, or you, like this again. They cannot simply think they have the ability to come together to build a super weapon without severe consequences. As I've told you, I don't rule as Snoke did. If I ruled as Snoke did, I would allow them to build the weapon and then destroy any star system that disagreed with the First Order. However, as it stands, I want our regime to be different, balanced, so if you truly want compromise in this, I will do my best, but I'm conflicted about how to go about it."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to 'snap' at you or get angry, I just want to feel as if you're taking my feelings and opinions seriously. You promised me that I'd have equal say in laws and how politics are carried out in the First Order from now on," she replied as she reached for his hand again.

Kylo reached back and took her hand as they both sat on their thrones, "I understand," he smiled at her, "I will compromise with you. You have my word."

The look of softness in Kylo's eyes toward her was beginning to break through her former agitation of this subject and she replied, "I know we may not always agree on how to go about things, and there might be times we outright disagree, but the main thing is that you are willing, at least, to compromise."

"I love you, Rey," Kylo replied and then he looked toward the entrance to the throne room, hearing the storm troopers approaching with the officer that was accused of treason and interjected quickly, "we'll get through this, but we'll get through it together, as ONE."

As soon as Kylo said this, the officer in question was now standing right before Rey and Kylo as they sat on their thrones. Kylo and Rey's thrones were surrounded by special forces, along with  Ushar and Vicrul being presesnt. Generals Hux and Pryde were also in the throne room so they could take notes down on a data pad for official recording of these proceedings.

The officer in question was hand cuffed and standing only a few feet in front of both Kylo and Rey's thrones. His head was hung down and he stared at the floor, not sure what to do or say. Rey noticed the fear written all over the officer's face as he awaited what came next. It's not that she didn't understand Kylo's point of view about maintaining law and order within he ranks of the First Order and not fomenting dissent and insubordination within it's ranks, but being a Light Sider, she also was prone to want to look for solutions without execution.

Kylo spoke up first and spoke to the officer, "Officer Hardings, step closer," he ordered.

The storm troopers that were standing directly behind officer Hardings pushed him forward closer to Kylo and Rey's thrones. Kylo continued speaking, "You stand here accused today of treason against myself, the Empress and the First Order. Our intelligence officers intercepted communications  between you and two other star destroyer commanders apparently trying to work together to build a super weapon like the Death Star or another Star Killer Base. What do you have to say for yourself? Do you deny these facts?"

Officer Hardings kept his head hung low as he continued to stare at the dura steel flooring and replied, "No, Supreme Leader, I do not deny these charges. I was merely trying to impress you by making sure such a weapon would guarantee that every star system in this galaxy would submit to your rule without question. Fear would bring the systems in line."

Kylo gripped the sides of his throne with cool anger and said, "Since when do any of my officers feel they have the authority to go behind my back and initiate such a weapon, or any other regime initiative, without coming to me first or bringing it up in a Supreme Council proposal? You took it upon yourself, you and your fellow officers, to plot this super weapon without my or the Empress' consent?"

Officer Hardings kept his head held down. Finally, Vicrul walked across the throne room and used his weapon roughly under Harding's chin and raised his head to look up at Kylo and he said, "Look at your Supreme Leader when answering him!"

Officer Hardings was now looking directly at Kylo and Rey as he replied, "Supreme Leader, with all due respect, some within our ranks no longer believe  you have the best interest of the First Order at heart. You have a Jedi seated beside you on a throne. You've allowed this Light Sider to cloud your judgement and.....," he stopped abruptly as Kylo interrupted him.

"Cloud my judgement? Since when do you suppose to even have a HINT of what goes on in my personal judgement over this galaxy, or the First Order, for that matter? How dare you suppose that you can interpret my will?" Kylo paused and then stood from his throne and pointed directly at him." He paused a moment and then pulled his light saber from off of his belt, stepped down from his throne and ignited it. Once ignited, he held is light saber pointed at the officer and continued, "I could execute you right here where you stand. As a matter of fact, according to First Order law, you should be executed," he turned for a moment to look at Rey and then back at officer Harding and then continued, "as of now, you will be taken to our detention cell without food or water for the next forty eight hours until the Empress and I decide on a proper course of action against you!" he said angrily, still holding his saber pointed at the man.

Rey now stood from her throne and interjected, "As your Empress, I have to say I agree with the Supreme Leader. You took it upon yourself to  take actions behind his back, my back as well, to bringing construction of a super weapon that could potentially wipe out entire star systems. This regime is NOT Snoke's regime, or the late Emperor Palpatine. The Supreme Leader and I sit on these thrones ruling now, and like it or not, we will make the laws and determine how the course of the galaxy is to proceed forth," she paused, "the Supreme Leader, as well as myself, according to First Order law, have every right to execute you right where you stand, however, for now, we will send you to our brig without food or water for the next two days until we bring your fellow conspirators before us in justice. Once the others who are involved are brought before us, the Supreme Leader and I will decide on a more permanent course of action to take against you."

Chapter Text

Chapter 18: The Resistance Helps the First Order With Intelligence (Part 1)

Rey now stood from her throne and interjected, "As your Empress, I have to say I agree with the Supreme Leader. You took it upon yourself to  take actions behind his back, my back as well, to bringing construction of a super weapon that could potentially wipe out entire star systems. This regime is NOT Snoke's regime, or the late Emperor Palpatine. The Supreme Leader and I sit on these thrones ruling now, and like it or not, we will make the laws and determine how the course of the galaxy is to proceed forth," she paused, "the Supreme Leader, as well as myself, according to First Order law, have every right to execute you right where you stand, however, for now, we will send you to our brig without food or water for the next two days until we bring your fellow conspirators before us in justice. Once the others who are involved are brought before us, the Supreme Leader and I will decide on a more permanent course of action to take against you."

"Empress," officer Hardings began, "I do not mean to defy you, or the Supreme Leader, however, I thought that you would both be pleased that certain officers were taking the initiative to build a weapon that would ensure our dominance in the galaxy. There are many of us that feel uneasy, and unsure allowing a Jedi, a Light Sider, to rule beside our Supreme Leader. No offense, but we were going to launch this weapon within months and start demonstrations on deserted moons as a proving ground of sorts to show off it's firepower and send a message to any who would oppose the First Order."

Rey could hardly believer her ears and replied, "So you thought it was alright to take matters into your own hands? Do you believe doing such a thing is showing the Supreme Leader, or myself, respect for our authority over this galaxy? I hardly think so. No, this shows both the Supreme Leader and I that you are doing what you want without consulting your superiors. We will root out those who are in operation with you over this and will deal with them," she paused, "as a matter of fact, the Supreme Leader's Knights, along with First Order and Resistance intelligence are on a hunt to find all who are involved, and we WILL find them," she paused yet again, "as far as a Light Sider ruling beside the Supreme Leader, at one time, I too would have thought that it would be impossible, and illogical, however, this is the will of the Force. The Supreme Leader and I have a vision from the Force for balance and he and I will both see to it that it will be carried out," she hesitated for a moment and then looked over at the special forces guards that had Hardings in hand cuffs and she continued, "take this man to a holding cell. We will deal with it him shorty. And remember, no food or water for forty eight hours," she ordered.

As Kylo sat on his throne listening to Rey speaking and giving orders with such confidence, his heart swelled with pride over her.  

As soon as Hardings was being taken away by the special forces to his holding cell, the COMM activated on Kylo's throne chair. 

"Yes? Supreme Leader here."

"Supreme Leader, we have General Organan on the COMM, Sir. She's requesting a personal audience with you and the Empress this very day. Shall I allow her to bring a transport here to the Finalizer so she may speak with you both?" asked General Hux.

Kylo glanced over at Rey momentarily and saw the nod she gave him and then he replied, "Yes, give her permission to land. Escort her here to our throne room. Is she contacting us regarding further intelligence into this situation?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," General Hux replied, "she says her own intelligence officers have valuable information to offer you, however, she'd rather deliver it in person. She's also asking for permission to bring along two officers. Mr. Dameron will not be joining them."

"I will allow it. Show my mother every courtesy and respect and have her escorted here to the Empress and I once her transport lands," he ordered.

"It appears  you and your mother are making great strides toward trusting one another," Rey began as  she took her seat again on her throne, "I'm glad to see it."

Kylo nodded, "I want to trust my mother. I am not sure how I feel about the Resistance as a whole yet, but I know my mother is powerful with the Force and would not lie to me. She and I may not agree fully on political views, but she would never deliberately harm me or try to deceive me. I'm hoping we continue to heal past wounds."

"I hope so too," Rey replied as she took hold of Kylo's hand.

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

Within an hour Leia's transport was given permission to land inside the Finalizer's hangar bay. Leia brought Rose Tico and Finn with her to the meeting. She was respectfully escorted from the hangar bay to the throne room by two of Kylo's Knights, along with several special forces troopers  to ensure their safety while on board. There were still many who served on board the Finalize who did not trust the Resistance as of yet.

As Leia, Rose and Finn were being escorted through the Finalizer, Rose was curious what Rey's throne room might look like.  She was observing everything on board the Finalizer closely as they were being escorted through the corridors and whispered to Finn and Leia, "This place is a literal city in space. It's huge. One could get lost here."

Leia chuckled, "Yes, it is quite large. Ben told me it's the largest and newest star destroyer in the fleet," she paused, "anyway, I'm glad Ben is willing to hear our intelligence reports."

"That is yet to be seen," Finn chimed in, "I still don't entirely trust your, Ren, I mean, your son.  No offense, Leia."

"None taken," Leia retorted with a glance in his direction, "it will take both sides time to trust the other. However, I'm willing to hear what he and Rey have to say and continue to work with their vision for balance in the Force and for the galaxy."

Once they arrived at the throne room and were escorted inside, Leia was impressed with the lavish appearance. Both Kylo and Rey were seated regally on their thrones. However, as soon as Leia walked into the room, Kylo was the first to stand up in honor of his mother. It was his way of showing her he wanted peace with her. 

"Welcome to the Finalizer, Mother," Kylo said as he saw his mother enter the throne room, "you are perfectly safe here. Please, have a seat," he motioned for chairs near the thrones.

"Thank you, Ben," Leia replied with a warm smile. 

Of course, Finn and Rose were a bit nervous being on board a First Order Star Destroyer, but decided to trust Kylo and take a seat. Rey stood from her throne and walked down toward Leia, Finn and Rose and extended her hand of welcome and said, "I'm glad you could visit the Finalizer. Ben and I both appreciate any intelligence you could offer. We will use it on conjunction with our own intelligence."

Chapter Text

Chapter 19: The Resistance Helps The First Order With Intelligence (Part 2)

"Welcome to the Finalizer, Mother," Kylo said as he saw his mother enter the throne room, "you are perfectly safe here. Please, have a seat," he motioned for chairs near the thrones.

"Thank you, Ben," Leia replied with a warm smile. 

Of course, Finn and Rose were a bit nervous being on board a First Order Star Destroyer, but decided to trust Kylo and take a seat. Rey stood from her throne and walked down toward Leia, Finn and Rose and extended her hand of welcome and said, "I'm glad you could visit the Finalizer. Ben and I both appreciate any intelligence you could offer. We will use it on conjunction with our own intelligence."

As Leia took her seat right next to Kylo and Rey's thrones she replied, "I will do all I can. I have plenty of intelligence to share with you," she paused as Rose and Finn took their seats beside Leia and then she continued, "I know this may be not be what you wanted to hear, but we have great intelligence capabilities of our own. We have had our own intelligence agents on this situation and have been monitoring it for some time now. That's why, at first, we were concerned that perhaps under your rule the First Order was indeed building a new super weapon."

Kylo replied, "I assure you, mother, that this building of a new super weapon that is powerful enough to destroy entire star systems has not been by my command or by Rey's command. I have traitors in my midst and they are plotting to build this weapon without my or the Empress' consent," he paused, "as we speak, two commanders from two star destroyers are being brought in for questioning by my Knights and special forces as we speak," he paused yet again and then hit a button on the console of his throne to use the COMM.

"Yes, Supreme Leader, Dining hall here," a chef answered.

"See to it that glasses of red wine are brought up for my guests. General Organa is visiting us, along with two of her officers. The Empress and I would also like a a glass of wine," he ordered.

"As you wish, Supreme Leader."

Kylo closed the COMM and then looked at his mother and continued, "We might as well share a glass of wine together while we discuss intelligence."

"Well, thank you. I accept the gesture and I appreciate that you and I are trying to forge ahead with a closer relationship and also furthering our trust," Leia replied.

Within a few moments, the chef walked in with tray of several glasses of Red wine and distributed a glass to each person, starting with Kylo and Rey first, and then their conversation continued.

"I'm interested in hearing the intelligence you have gathered and for how long the Resistance has been aware of the building of this weapon," Kylo stated.

Leia continued, "It all started a few months ago when my intelligence officers began to intercept chatter near the Outer Rim that seemed to indicate a large scale weapon of mass destruction being built. At first I wasn't sure, but after listening to the chatter myself, I came to the conclusion that it was true. Not knowing you and the Empress did NOT order this to be done, I assumed it was ordered by you and our mistrust of the First Order only deepened. I'm glad to hear that you and the Empress did not order this," she said as she took another sip of her wine.

"No, we did not order this," Rey interjected, "one of the many reasons I decided to join the Supreme Leader was because he promised me he'd never use a weapon like the Death Star or Star Killer Base to destroy entire star systems to bring them into obedience."

Kylo interjected, "Our intelligence has also determined that this weapon is being constructed in the Outer Rim area. Once I find out the location of this structure, I will blow it out of the sky. By the time I'm finished, there will be nothing left of it," he paused, "also, those that are responsible for this treason might pay for it with their lives."

As soon as Kylo said this, he noticed Rey glancing over in his direction. He knew she didn't approve of a death sentence right now but he hoped she'd change her mind. 

"Well, whether death sentences are handed out for treason or not is yet to be seen," Rey replied, "but the traitors will be dealt with severely enough to send a message to the rest of those involved."

Kylo knew that Rey was 'hinting' to him that she might not approve of a death penalty and he glossed over the topic for now and continued, "In any case, I do not tolerate insubordination on this scale. It will be punished with very little mercy on my part," he paused, "as soon as the two commanders are brought here for further questioning, I will have a better idea of the exact location of the weapon. If they will not volunteer the information of their free will, I will extract and TAKE the information by using the Force and going directly into their minds to find out what I want to know."

Leia was well aware that her son had this ability to read into people's minds and emotions very easily with the Force and replied, "I don't doubt it."

"You disapprove?" Kylo asked his mother curiously.

"Not at all. When it comes to saving star systems from destruction in this galaxy, then by all means, use the Force to find out what you need to know," she agreed.

Rose and Finn sat listening to all of this with great curiosity. They were still in awe that they were seated safely on board a star destroyer sipping wine with their former enemy! They were both intrigued to hear that Kylo had the ability to extract information directly from people's minds if needed. Kylo was actually trying to be a gracious host even though he was still trying to learn to trust the Resistance himself and asked if Finn and Rose wanted more wine.

"Would either of you care for another glass of wine? I can have my chefs bring more up for you?" Kylo asked Rose and Finn.

Rose and Finn exchanged rather shocked glances at one another and Rose replied, "Wow, well, uh....," she paused, her shock evident on her face due to Kylo's polite gesture despite the fact they'd been enemies in the past, "yes, thank you."

Kylo nodded and motioned for his chefs to bring the tray of wine back over to them and pour them another glass. The conversation continued as Leia, Kylo and Rey exchanged deep intelligence information with one another, but as they did, the two star destroyer commanders that had been apprehended and brought into custody by Kylo's Knights were suddenly brought into the throne room!

Leia watched with baited breath to see how her son would handle this situation or if Rey would intervene in some way. She knew she was on board her son's flag ship, not her own, so she was going to try to show him respect even if she didn't know how these proceedings might go. 

"Master Kylo," Vicrul began, "here are the two commanders you sent for questioning. They resisted arrest at first, but we forced them, and then they complied with your orders," he said gruffly and then pushed the two commanders roughly forward toward Kylo and Rey's thrones.

Kylo stood from his throne and glared directly the two commanders. Vicrul and Trudgeon pushed the two commanders down onto their knees onto the floor before Kylo and Rey's thrones. The two commanders could not even look up at Kylo and make eye contact with him. They stared at the floor, breathing heavily with fear, and rightly so.

"So," Kylo began as he glared at the two men, "you are here to give account before the Empress and myself about this super weapon you are attempting to build without our authorization," he paused and then circled the two men a couple of times for intimidation as he glared down at them and then continued, "you will tell me who else is working with you in this and, if you do not tell me of your own free will, I will take the information by Force directly out of your minds and I promise you, it will be a painful experience," he paused, "you will tell me exactly where in the Outer Rim this weapon is being constructed and who is involved," he ordered sternly.

Chapter Text

Chapter 20: Collaboration

"So," Kylo began as he glared at the two men, "you are here to give account before the Empress and myself about this super weapon you are attempting to build without our authorization," he paused and then circled the two men a couple of times for intimidation as he glared down at them and then continued, "you will tell me who else is working with you in this and, if you do not tell me of your own free will, I will take the information by Force directly out of your minds and I promise you, it will be a painful experience," he paused, "you will tell me exactly where in the Outer Rim this weapon is being constructed and who is involved," he ordered sternly.

Of course, the two commanders still did not look up at Kylo, or Rey, and make eye contact with them. Both commanders KNEW exactly what Kylo was capable of and how he normally dealt with disobedience and insubordination and were terrified for their lives. Leia, Finn and Rose were all watching all of this intently and were curious how Kylo and Rey might go about handling all of this.

"Well?" Kylo asked rather gruffly, "answer me or I will use the Force to painfully extract from your mind exactly what I want!"

Finn remembered what it had been like to serve under Kylo in his personal guard when he was the Master of the Knights of Ren long before he had become Supreme Leader. He remembered how harsh and aggressive he was. Being a former storm trooper, he knew far too well what might happen here today if these two commanders did not speak. Rose glanced over at Rey and noticed Rey wore a quite serious expression on er face, and one of concern, however it was obvious to Rose that Rey did not intend to allow these two commanders to go without punishment, but wasn't sure whether she'd allow the death penalty or not due to treason. As Rose watched Rey seated on her throne, she couldn't help but wonder what Rey saw in Kylo. Rey, a Jedi and Light Side user, deeply in love and in a romantic relationship with the Supreme Leader? No matter how odd and unlikely it seemed to Rose, it was apparently true. 

One of the commanders kept looking down at the floor but spoke to Kylo and replied, "Supreme Leader, some of us acted out of pride for the First Order. Our first duty was to the Order and to ensure it's authority over the galaxy. It has been proven in times past that the Death Star and Star Killer Base have both proven effective instruments of intimidation to keep star systems in line and obedience to the Order. We thought by taking this initiative that you would be proud of our endeavors."

Kylo scoffed sarcastically and circled the two men once more while they knelt before him on the floor and he replied, "By your arrogance you assumed that I would be pleased? Answer me this. Have I ever given the order to build a new super weapon? Has the Empress ever given the order to construct another super weapon?" he asked angrily as he continued to circle the men like a vulture waiting to move in for the kill.

"No, Sir," one of the commanders replied as he finally looked away from the floor and up at Kylo, "I was acting on behalf of the Order. There are many high ranking officers and officials within the First Order that have questioned whether your judgement in asking a Jedi to join you to rule was the wisest course of action. We had a back up plan to ensure the survival and dominance of the First Order just in case your plan to ask the Jedi to rule beside you back fired."

"I don't recall giving you permission to 'speak freely'," Kylo began, "your tone of voice and arrogant comments and assumptions may very well cost you your life. As Supreme Leader, I owe you no explanation as to what my decisions are for this galaxy or why," he paused and then continued, "I'll ask you once more: who else is involved?"

Rey interjected, "The Supreme Leader is correct. Who are you to question our decisions for ruling this galaxy? We've both made galaxy-wide announcements explaining the Force's vision. We've both held nothing back when it came to explaining that the Force has given us both visions for balance in government. You took it upon yourselves to begin construction on a super weapon, a weapon that the Supreme Leader and I intend on hunting down, finding, and eventually destroying," she paused and stood from her throne and then pointed over at Leia and continued, "even the First Order's former enemy, the Resistance, is willing to accept this new vision from the Force, trust us, and even help us hunt down and destroy this weapon."

Leia nodded and added, "It's true. I didn't trust the First Order or even the Empire for decades, but this new vision from the Force is believable. I will help them hunt down this weapon. The Resistance has intelligence of it's own about this weapon and we will help the Supreme Leader and the Empress destroy it."

Kylo continued speaking to the one commander and asked, "As a matter of fact, where did the funding come from to begin construction to build this weapon? Are you stealing credits from First Order funds? Who did you bribe for the credits to do this? The funding had to come from somewhere? I'm inclined to believe you were wiling to even steal First Order secrets and sell them to the highest bidder so you could get the credits necessary to begin this super weapon," he accused the commander, "building something of this magnitude would require raising taxes throughout the galaxy, which is something you do not have the authority to do."

Both commanders were still kneeling on the floor on their knees before Kylo as the other commander spoke and said, "We will answer nothing more. My colleague has already divulged too much information. Where we got the funding from is something we will not share."

"Very well," Kylo's wrath was kindled even more and he extended his hand, used the power of the Force and began to probe the minds of both men, taking the information he wanted without warning.

Kylo didn't say another word, nor did he give any advance warning before using the Force to painfully begin extracting the information from the commanders' minds. Leia, Finn and Rose watched as Kylo did so and were even more impressed with his powers and ability in the Force. Of course, Leia was well aware of her son's capabilities, but Rose and Finn were now getting a deeper experience of this while watching him. Finn and Rose exchanged impressed glances with one another as Kylo continued to probe the commanders' minds for information.

Rey was still standing from her throne and motioned for the special forces to come forward with hand cuffs and to be ready to take the two men into custody the moment Kylo was finished gathering information.

"I can see that You HAVE been selling information to our adversaries in the galaxy," he began as he continued to probe their thoughts, "and those adversaries were not the Resistance, but others who are against the Empress and I and our efforts to achieve a balanced government," he continued as he concentrated heavily in the Force, extracting even more information, "you've also been stealing credits from our finance department and working with officers there as well. I will bring them in for accountability as well," he paused and kept his eyes closed as he concentrated, digging ever deeper into their minds and then continued, "I now see the super weapon is half way built. It's located near the Unknown Regions and is being built on the other side of a moon to keep it hidden from most sensors, and from ships passing by. I now know the location of this weapon and where some of your funding has been coming from," he paused and then opened his eyes and continued, "not only have you taken matters into your own hands by starting construction of this weapon without authorization, but you also committed treason by stealing funds and credits from the First Order to try to build this weapon. Both of these offenses deserve the death penalty under First Order Law!" he said gruffly and filled with wrath.

By now, both men were sweating profusely and were in a great deal of pain due to Kylo using the Force to extract the information he wanted. They were breathing heavily and nearly fell to the floor from exhaustion due to Kylo's use of the Force on them.

Rey motioned for the special forces, along with Vicrul and Trudgeon to come and put hand cuffs on the two commanders, "Vicrul, Trudgeon," she began, "come here. Bring those cuffs with you. The Supreme Leader has obtained the information he wanted. Take them into custody immediately and put them both in our detention cells. He and I will deal with them soon," she ordered.

Rey was ordering this in order to spare the men's lives. She was going to try to avoid the death penalty, for now, and see if she could reason with Kylo later. For now, she wanted them detained in a brig cell and would discuss with him about punishment at a later time.

"Yes, Empress," Vicrul replied as he and Trudgeon came walking over to the two men with cuffs in hand. 

Vicrul and Trudgeon took the two commanders into custody at Rey's command and, as they were leading the men out of the throne room, Kylo interjected, "Rey, these men deserve death."

Rey kept calm but replied, "That is a decision that you and I will have to discuss later and then come to a joint decision. For now, I'm ordering them into custody," she said matter-of-factly.

Kylo nodded to her and submitted to her wishes for now and didn't bring up any objections, at least for the moment. Leia was even surprised that Kylo backed down and did what Rey suggested for now.

Right before the two men were roughly escorted out of the throne room Leia spoke up to both commanders and said, "As the General of the Resistance, my son and I have not always seen eye to eye on politics, or the Force, but believe me when I say that I am on his side when it comes to hunting down this weapon and helping him destroy it," she paused and then looked at Kylo and said, "Son, I'm here to help in anyway I can. Just say the word and I will have the Raddus, and our X-wings, working alongside your forces to destroy this weapon."

Once the two commanders were taken out in cuffs by Vicrul and Trudgeon, Kylo looked over at  his mother, gave her a nod of appreciation and replied, "I appreciate your help, mother, and won't reject it. This will further the peace talks, and trust, between the First Order and the Resistance. I will inform you when we are ready to launch our star destroyers to hunt down this weapon near the Unknown Regions. If you you are willing to offer the Raddus and single man fighters to work alongside my forces, I won't reject that offer."

Leia walked over to her son, extended her hand to him and said, "I'm here to help. I'll advise my people and will have the Raddus ready to go at a moment's notice.

Kylo extended his gloved hand back to his mother, shook her hand and gave her another nod of approval. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 21: The Hunt For the Super Weapon (Part 1)

Once the two commanders were taken out in cuffs by Vicrul and Trudgeon, Kylo looked over at  his mother, gave her a nod of appreciation and replied, "I appreciate your help, mother, and won't reject it. This will further the peace talks, and trust, between the First Order and the Resistance. I will inform you when we are ready to launch our star destroyers to hunt down this weapon near the Unknown Regions. If you you are willing to offer the Raddus and single man fighters to work alongside my forces, I won't reject that offer."

Leia walked over to her son, extended her hand to him and said, "I'm here to help. I'll advise my people and will have the Raddus ready to go at a moment's notice.

Kylo extended his gloved hand back to his mother, shook her hand and gave her another nod of approval, "Your offer of friendship and help is greatly appreciated, Mother."

Leia gently gripped her son's hand in hers and locked eyes with him saying, "I want old wounds between us to heal. I've missed you, son, and want to be a part of your life again. I may always have wanted a democracy for the galaxy, but I also cannot deny that part of me is proud hat my son is ruler of this galaxy. I am beginning to trust that the vision the Force gave to you and Rey is indeed valid and I want to see where this goes, including our own personal relationship with one another."

Kylo nodded and actually managed a small smile as he looked down at her. He was silent, but Leia knew by the look in his eyes that he was touched to her this from her. Unbeknownst to Kylo at the moment, Leia had yet another surprise in store for him, but that would have to wait until the battle to destroy the super weapon was well underway!

"I will have Vicrul and Ushar escort you to your transport, Mother. I assume you will be preparing the Raddus for combat and putting your own officers on high alert?" he asked.

"You assume correctly, Ben," she replied, feeling more comfortable to call him 'Ben' now that they were alone. 

Kylo looked over at Rey as she was seated on her throne and spoke under his breath to his mother and continued, "I have a feeling I'm going to have a  tough time convincing Rey to allow me to push for the death penalty for those traitorous officers. There might be more officers that are working along with them. It's First Oder law, Mother, to execute traitors. That's how it's bee since the days of the Empire when your father, my grandfather Vader, ruled."

Leia nodded with a smile and a sigh and said, "I realize that, but now that you are Supreme Leade and make the laws, isn't it time to allow Rey's influence in to help alter or change some of those laws? There are ways to discipline and deal with traitors without execution," she paused as she gave Rey a glance from across the room, "just a suggestion.I know you have to send a message to the First Order, and the galaxy at large, that you won't tolerate traitorous acts of insubordination against you and Rey, but there are punishments that can be just as effective without resorting to execution."

"I can definitely tell that you and Rey use the Light Side," Kylo shook his head with a smile, "you both sound alike," he paused and kept hold of his mother's hand and said, "I will always be my grandfather's grandson and heir in every way, but I can also tell that I'm out numbered between you and Rey."

Leia chuckled, "At least I'm hearing something from my son I never expected to hear. You're willing to compromise, which is something Snoke never would have done, nor the late Emperor Palpatine."

"I am planning on taking a trip soon to Mustafar wth Rey. She and I need some time alone after all of this is taken care of," he sighed and then paused, "as much as I idolize and venerate my grandfather, and I'm his heir apparent, I have often wondered in the privacy of my thoughts whether he would have approved of me ruling with a Jedi beside me."

Leia dipped her head for a moment in thought and then looked back up at her son and replied, "Ben, this is YOUR time to rule now. It's your rules, your way. I am sure your grandfather would have understood what you are doing. There was nothing more important to him than the Force. If he knew you were obeying the will of the Force to bring balance, I think he might have eventually come around to admiring what you and Rey are doing together."

"Perhaps," Kylo replied, "alright, we'll continue this converstaion for another day, Mother. Right now, my Knights will escort you safely back to your transport and I will be in touch with you when our destroyers are ready for combat and also when the Finalizer is prepared to head to the outer skirts of the Unknown Regions to look for this super weapon. Do you think your ship and forces will be ready for combat within a day or so?"

"Yes," Lea replied, "as a matter of fact,I've already put the Raddus on high alert and gone to tactical alert as well. My officers and X-wings stand by to work alongside your men. Just say the word," she smiled.

Kylo could see the love and affection Leia had in her eyes for him as she looked up at him and then she continued, "Ben, no matter our differences in political views, or the Force, you are my son and I've missed being a part of your life. Let's both do our best for forge ahead together, alright? Between your armies, destroyeres and forces and my own, we will quell this super weapon threat and rid the galaxy of it. I'm sure of that."

Kylo nodded and then motioned for Vicrul and Ushar to escort his mother back to the hangar bay. Rose and Finn were also astonished that this level of trust and relationshp was being forged between Leia and Kylo and were finally beginning to believe that this vision of the Force for balance might actually come true....

This was the first time that mother and son had actually exchanged a smile between one another in years and it was a refreshing sight indeed!

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Several hours had passed. Both the Finalizer and Leia's command ship, the Raddus, were both on high tactical alert for the upcoming mission at hand: Hunt down, locate and destroy the super weapon.

While both ships and fleets were being prepared for combat and setting out to look for the super weapon, Kylo and Rey had a few private moments together that they decided to take in their quarters before Kylo gave the order to launch.

One behind closed doors in their quarters, Kylo put his hands on Rey's waist, gazed down lovingly and longingly into her soft hazel eyes and said, "We have a few hours before we launch our forces and the Resistance launches their own forces. I have missed having time alone with you, Rey."

Rey smiled up at him with such warmth and intimacy that it took Kylo's breath away, "I have missed being alone with you too. I'm looking forward to that trip to Mustafar that you promised me once this situation is over with, but for now, I think we can find a few minutes to be alone before this mission is launched."

Kylo leaned down and slowly pressed his lips to hers, his large, warm hands enveloped her waist and then ran up her back as he kissed her, gently at first, but then his kisses became far more passionate and filled with longing. Rey pressed her body up against his and wrapped her arms around him, savoring the feeling of his body flush up against hers.

"Force, you feel so good. Just feeling you up against me takes my breath away," she remarked as she ran her hands from his back and up and down his arms.

Kylo spoke to her so softly and said, "We can worry about what to do with those prisoner in our brig later. Right now, I want these next few hours before we head out on our mission to be just about you and I," he paused and kissed her again while keeping her body flush up against his and then continued, "before we launch though, I want to be sure you have something to eat and get at last two to three hours of sleep. You need your strength for combat."

Rey smiled and a slight chuckle escaped her as she replied, "Same goes for you, Supreme Leader," she remarked playfully, but with a deep look of seduction in her eyes. Kylo returned her look of longing and seduction with one of his own as he leaned in once more to kiss her.

Kylo picked Rey up into his arms and carried her to their bedroom. Rey leaned her head against his shoulder, and as she did, she whispered into his ear, "I love you so much, Ben. I can't wait to feel you inside me again. I feel as if I can never get enough of you," she paused as he carried her, "I wish we didn't have this mission and could just fly to Mustafar to be alone now."

Kylo set her down on her feet once they reached the bedroom, kissed her hand and then her forehead and replied, "I will be sure we get that time alone. For now, let's enjoy what time we do have before we set out."

Kylo began to slowly undress her, and as he did, Rey reached for the zipper on his leather pants with one hand, while with the other hand she ran her hand she reached for the zipper on his tunic and began to pull it down. Once his tunic was unzippered, she ran her palm back and forth over the warm, muscular contour of his chest. Kylo began kissing her on the neck and then moved his kisses down her to her breasts. Rey let out a small moan of pleasure, "Ben, oh yes, Ben."

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In the meantime, Kylo and Rey's adversaries had gotten word that he was about to hunt them down and come after them. They were preparing to fire the nearly completed weapon at yet another dead moon and use it as a proving ground. They put squadrons of single man fighters surrounding the weapon in preparation for when First Order and Resistance forces arrived. No matter what defensive preparations these traitors tried to provide, it would prove to be insufficient compared to the firepower of the First Order and the Resistance combined. 

Kylo and Rey's adversaries were successful at firing on an uninhabited moon and managed to destroy most of the surface. Little did they know that the power of the Force that Kylo and Rey would possess, along with the tech and weaponry of the First Order and Resistance combined would be no match for them. Kylo was coming after them, and when he did, he would show no mercy in his handling of the situation!

Chapter Text

Chapter 22: The Hunt For The Super Weapon (Part 2)

In the meantime, Kylo and Rey's adversaries had gotten word that he was about to hunt them down and come after them. They were preparing to fire the nearly completed weapon at yet another dead moon and use it as a proving ground. They put squadrons of single man fighters surrounding the weapon in preparation for when First Order and Resistance forces arrived. No matter what defensive preparations these traitors tried to provide, it would prove to be insufficient compared to the firepower of the First Order and the Resistance combined. 

Kylo and Rey's adversaries were successful at firing on an uninhabited moon and managed to destroy most of the surface. Little did they know that the power of the Force that Kylo and Rey would possess, along with the tech and weaponry of the First Order and Resistance combined would be no match for them. Kylo was coming after them, and when he did, he would show no mercy in his handling of the situation!

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Once Leia returned to the Raddus, she was met by Poe Dameron and several of her other high ranking officers. They gave her a report that sent shivers down her spine, but she knew she had to deal with it and that her son would want to know about it. Of course, the First Order's intelligence officers were already aware, but Leia did not know this and wanted to share the intelligence with her son, and the First Order, as soon as possible.

"General," Poe began, "we've intercepted credible information that the adversaries of the First Order, and of the Resistance have successfully launched a test with a prototype of the super weapon they are developing. They've utilized a dead moon as a proving ground to detonate and test it's fire power."

Leia nodded with a concerned sigh and took a seat at a console and replied, "Thank you for the report," she paused, "I am sure my son and Rey know about this, but we must get in touch with the Finalizer about this as soon as possible. This cannot be allowed to continue. After my meeting with my son and the Empress, we all agreed that the First Order and the Resistance must set aside their differences, make peace, and work together to combat this common threat to the galaxy."

Poe interjected rather impatiently, "I know, I know," he paused and put his hands on his waist, "the old saying, 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend' rhetoric?" 

Leia nodded, "Yes, Poe, something like that. You need to trust me and also trust the Force is up to something good. Changes are coming for the galaxy."

"It's easy for you to say that, you're Force sensitive, General. It's easier for you to feel these things, and have those hopes, those of us that are not Force sensitive do not always share your trust of the First Order or Ren's vision for the future."

"I understand that, but I need you to trust me and follow orders. I'm powerful enough with the Force that I would sense if my son were lying to me. He's not. Your job is to follow my orders. We are going to work alongside the First Order to rid the galaxy of this threat, understood?"

Poe nodded, "Yes, General. Understood....."

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The Fiinalizer was on high tactical alert, along with many star destroyers that were in the Outer Rim area. Kylo had given the order for every available star destroyer they could spare to meet up with the Finalizer, and the Raddus, and put on 'stand by' to jump to light speed in order to intercept this super weapon that was being tested near the Unknown Regions. 

Kylo and Rey were in the hangar bay of the Finalizer and were making an observation and check up on the troops before they were ordered into combat. As Kylo and Rey were walking in between the rows and rows of thousands of storm troopers, Kylo noticed that his men were not carrying the most advanced weapons available. He had previously ordered that his troops be equipped with the most up-to-date technology available, yet he didn't observe this. They were still using blasters that were being utilized during Snoke's reign. 

Kylo pulled Allegiant General Pryde aside and asked, "Where are the updated weapons I asked for? My troops need to be equipped with the latest blaster technology. I personally spoke with our suppliers several weeks ago, even before I asked the Empress to join me."

Rey was not aware that this fact and was equally concerned and interjected, "Since we already have traitors in our midst, could it be that those same traitors have sabotaged us by intercepting the newer tech weapons in order to make sure or troops don't have them?"

Both Kylo and General Pryde were impressed with Rey's assessment of the situation and Kylo replied, "She may have a point," he paused, "contact or suppliers at once and see where our shipments ended up," he ordered, "before I send my troops into combat, I want them to have the most updated weapons available."

"That may not be possible," Rey interjected, "even if we contact the suppliers, what if it still takes days to get new weapons to our troops? We may have to make do with the blasters they have now. Besides, we will have the Resistance's support and weaponry as well on our side as we advanced against this super weapon."

"She has a point," Kylo replied, "very well. Still contact our suppliers immediately," he ordered, "we'll do fine

with what we have the training they've received."

Suddenly, General Hux came walking into the hangar bay while Kylo and Rey were surveying their troops and informed them, "Supreme Leader, Empress, there is word both from our own intelligence, and the intelligence of the Resistance, that yet another test has been performed on a dead moon with this super weapon."

Kylo didn't hesitate one more second to make his decision, "I see. Very well," he paused and paced a moment, his leather cape billowing behind him as he thought, "put all of our troops and destroyers on the highest alert possible. Inform General Organa that the Finalizer will jump to light speed within the hour. We are going to find this weapon this very day, within hours hopefully, and destroy it! I want no more delays," he ordered.

Within the hour, both the Raddus and the Finalizer made the jump to light speed, along with squadrons of special forces TIE fighters, X-Wings and various other star destroyers from the Mid Rim and Outer Rim areas. They were going to converge on the location of this new super weapon within hours, and once they did so, neither Kylo nor Rey would show mercy. 

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Leia received word that the Finalizer, a myriad of destroyers and TIE fighters had jumped to light speed and she joined them with her own forces. They were on their way to blow the weapon out of the sky and be done with it once and for all and bring every traitor to justice!

Chapter Text

Chapter 23: Zero Hour: First Order and Resistance Work Together (Part 1)

Suddenly, General Hux came walking into the hangar bay while Kylo and Rey were surveying their troops and informed them, "Supreme Leader, Empress, there is word both from our own intelligence, and the intelligence of the Resistance, that yet another test has been performed on a dead moon with this super weapon."

Kylo didn't hesitate one more second to make his decision, "I see. Very well," he paused and paced a moment, his leather cape billowing behind him as he thought, "put all of our troops and destroyers on the highest alert possible. Inform General Organa that the Finalizer will jump to light speed within the hour. We are going to find this weapon this very day, within hours hopefully, and destroy it! I want no more delays," he ordered.

Within the hour, both the Raddus and the Finalizer made the jump to light speed, along with squadrons of special forces TIE fighters, X-Wings and various other star destroyers from the Mid Rim and Outer Rim areas. They were going to converge on the location of this new super weapon within hours, and once they did so, neither Kylo nor Rey would show mercy. 

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Leia received word that the Finalizer, a myriad of destroyers and TIE fighters had jumped to light speed and she joined them with her own forces. They were on their way to blow the weapon out of the sky and be done with it once and for all and bring every traitor to justice!

While both ships, the Finalizer and the Raddus were traveling at light speed to the outskirts of the Unknown Regions, Kylo received word that the super weapon was now being aimed at a populated world!

Lieutenant Mitkaka, along with Kylo's top intelligence officer, Kandia, approached he and Rey on the bridge. Officer Kandia began speaking while Lt. Mitaka held a data pad in his hand, "Supreme Leader?"

"Yes?" Kylo turned to look at Officer Kandia.

"Sir, I have personally just intercepted chatter on a secure channel that the traitors we're going to confront now have plans to fire on an inhabited world. We don't have much time, Sir."

Kylo's agitated and angry voice tone could be easily detected through his voice modulator in his mask as he replied, "What level of light speed is the Finalizer traveling at now?"

Officer Kandia replied, "We are doing eight times the speed of light, Sir."

"Supreme Leader," Lt. Mitaka interjected rather nervously, "you aren't suggesting we go even faster, are you, Sir?"

Kylo nodded, "Yes, I am. Push the engines on this ship as fast as they can possibly go! We have to intercept that weapon before they get a chance to fire on this populated world. What is the name of the world they are targeting?"

"They are targeting Mustafar, Supreme Leader," Lt. Mitaka replied, "I believe it's a target designed to provoke you on a personal level, Sir."

Rey's eyes widened. She'd never been to Mustafar before, but she had heard Kylo speak of it and that he wanted to take her there eventually and show her his grand father's castle. Kylo's wrath was increasing by the second as he replied, "Yes, they are targeting Mustafar to make this personal," he paused and paced a moment, "contact General Organa of the Raddus. Inform her that we are going to push our engines to nine times the speed of light. See if her ship can go that fast and keep up with us," he paused yet again, "also have as many star destroyers that are in the Outer Rim areas converge in orbit around Mustafar immediately!" he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader," both Officer Kandia and Mitaka replied.

Rey pulled Kylo off to the side, and as she did, Kylo pulled his mask off so he could speak to her more clearly and Rey said, "Ben, we can't allow this. Even traveling at nine times the speed of light might not get us there in time. They are most definitely making this personal now."

Kylo nodded, "Yes, but I'm pushing the engines of this ship as fast as they can go. Hopefully my mother's ship can keep up. Until then, we have to trust the Force. The Force didn't bring us this far only to abandon us in our effort. We will save Mustafar and preserve my grand father's castle and memory."

Rey nodded, "I agree. We'll trust the Force in this," she paused due to the fact that she noticed a COMM console that was blinking but no one was attending to it. Many officers were running all around the bridge frantically working and had overlooked the COMM, "Ben, give me one second. I need to see to this COMM," she mentioned as she jogged quickly over to the blinking COMM console.

"Empress Rey here. With whom am I speaking?"

"Rey? This is General Organa," Leia began, "We received your message that you are pushing your ship to nine times the speed of light in order to reach Mustafar in time before the weapon is deployed against it? I'm contacting you to let you know that my ship can indeed go that fast. We will keep up with you. We're right behind you."

"Thank you, General," Rey replied, "we also have other destroyers converging on that location to try and intercept the weapon in time. Your son suspects that the reason they are targeting Mustafar is to make this as personal a 'blow' to him as possible. Some of his officers here in the First Order obviously do not like it that I've joined him. They don't trust me, a Jedi, to rule beside him and are trying to send Ben a message."

"Well, we will send them a message of our own," Leia began, "I've also taken it upon myself to enlist the aid and help of someone that Ben might not approve of, but he will prove useful and quite powerful in our fight against this threat."

"Oh?" Rey asked curiously, "who is it?"

By now, Kylo had walked quickly over to where Rey was standing so he could hear the conversation that was taking place between Rey and his mother.

Leia continued, "Yes, my brother, Luke, is in the Outer Rim on a world called Ahch-To. He has an old X-Wing with him that he used to fly in combat against the Empire decades ago, but he assures me that he is willing to use his X-Wing and join our fight to spare Mustafar. I explained to Luke the vision the Force has given to you and Ben and he is willing to believe in this vision and offer his aid. I know you aren't personally acquainted with my brother, but he is very powerful with the Force. The problem is that my son and his uncle have a hostile history with one another. I hope that my contacting and enlisting my brother's help won't offend my son."

Rey looked up at Kylo, who was standing right beside her and Kylo didn't look especially happy about it, but he gave Rey a nod of approval.

Rey continued, "Alright. Ben is going to go along with this in order to stop these traitors and spare Mustafar being destroyed."

"Very well, I will contact Luke and let him know. Leia out."

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Leia contacted Luke on Ahch-To, and once she did, he quickly found his light saber and hitched it to his side. He used the Force to levitate his old X-Winng out of the water and set it onto dry land. He spent the next few hours packing food, medical supplies, a blaster and some survival gear just in case it would be needed. He had not used his light saber in combat for years, however, he had no doubt that once he picked his light saber back up again in combat, he'd prevail.

He had no idea how his nephew, Kylo, would respond to him once he saw him again after so many years, but he was about to find out.

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The Raddus and the Finalizer finally arrived in the Mustafar System. Kylo had pushed the engines of the Finalizer as fast as they could go, but it was necessary. 

"Raise our shields," Kylo ordered as they dropped out of light speed, "put us on the highest tactical alert and send out every single squadron of TIE fighters we have and order the commanders of the other destroyers to do the same!"

Rey also made some orders of her own as she spoke to Lieutenant Mitaka, "Lieutenant Mitaka, ready the TIE Whisper for combat. I'm going to join the front lines of this fight," she ordered.

"Empress?" Lieutenant Mitaka protested with concern, "are you sure, Ma'am?"

Rey sighed with impatience, "I'm your Empress. I just gave you an order. Ready the TIE Whisper immediately. By the time I get to the hangar bay, I want it fueled and ready," she replied as she hooked her saber to her side and placed her blaster in it's holster.

Kylo over heard Rey's remarks to Lieutenant Mitaka and smiled at her. He was holding his mask in his right hand so Rey could see the look of approval and pride that was written all over his face and he chimed in saying, "Ready my TIE Silencer, Mitaka, I'm joining the Empress," he ordered, "she's not doing this without me."

"Yes, Supreme Leader, right away."

Chapter Text

Chapter 24:

Zero Hour: First Order and Resistance Work Together (Part 2)

The Raddus and the Finalizer finally arrived in the Mustafar System. Kylo had pushed the engines of the Finalizer as fast as they could go, but it was necessary. 

"Raise our shields," Kylo ordered as they dropped out of light speed, "put us on the highest tactical alert and send out every single squadron of TIE fighters we have and order the commanders of the other destroyers to do the same!"

Rey also made some orders of her own as she spoke to Lieutenant Mitaka, "Lieutenant Mitaka, ready the TIE Whisper for combat. I'm going to join the front lines of this fight," she ordered.

"Empress?" Lieutenant Mitaka protested with concern, "are you sure, Ma'am?"

Rey sighed with impatience, "I'm your Empress. I just gave you an order. Ready the TIE Whisper immediately. By the time I get to the hangar bay, I want it fueled and ready," she replied as she hooked her saber to her side and placed her blaster in it's holster.

Kylo over heard Rey's remarks to Lieutenant Mitaka and smiled at her. He was holding his mask in his right hand so Rey could see the look of approval and pride that was written all over his face and he chimed in saying, "Ready my TIE Silencer, Mitaka, I'm joining the Empress," he ordered, "she's not doing this without me."

"Yes, Supreme Leader, right away."

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The Finalizer and the Raddus dropped out of light speed not far from the new super weapon. Leia gave orders for her squadrons of X-Wings to be deployed immediately to work alongside the First Order's TIE fighters. For the first time in galactic history, Dark and Light, the First Order and Resistance were working together to destroy a common enemy and threat to the galaxy. Kylo's Knights took single man fighters and immediately made a stealth approach to the new super weapon. They had codes they entered into their navigation systems that made it nearly impossible for the super weapon's sensors to detect them as they approached. The Knights were going to stealthily sneak on board the weapon and begin hand to hand combat against the enemy as well as try to sabotage the inner working systems of the weapon.

In the meantime, Kylo and Rey took the Whisper and the Silencer down to the surface of Mustafar and would engage traitor enemies down there to help protect it from being destroyed. Kylo also wanted to be there to protect his grand father Vader's castle. His grand father meant a great deal to him, and Vader's journals and entire history had been stored in his castle, and Kylo was doing to everything he could to protect and preserve that! 

Luke had left Ahch-To and jumped to light speed and was well on his way to the Mustafar System to help Kylo and Rey.  He, of course, did not know how Kylo would respond to seeing him again, given their hostile history, but he had hopes in the Force that the vision of balance would take place and that Kylo would welcome his help and that the two of them could mend old wounds and be family again. Luke knew he was the one at fault where his nephew was concerned. It was HE that tried to murder Kylo in his sleep and he knew he owed Kylo an apology. That would have to wait for now due to the pressing matters at hand.

Luke's intention was to stand beside Kylo and Rey in hand-to-hand combat on Mustafar. As he was traveling at light speed, he put his X-Wing on auto pilot and closed his eyes and meditated in the Force for a long while during his trip to Mustafar. He had to 'center' himself in the Force. It had been so long since he'd used his light saber, or been in combat, so he meditated to make sure that once he arrived, he would be focused and be ready to awaken those Force abilities once again that had lain dormant for so long!

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In the meantime, Kylo was piloting his TIE Silencer to the surface of Mustafar and Rey was right beside him in the TIE Whisper. 

"Rey?" Kylo's voice sounded through the Whisper's COMM system.

"Yes, I'm reading you. Go ahead," she replied as both she and Kylo were descending down closer to the surface of Mustafar.

"Just to let you know, we will not only be battling the traitors who are targeting Mustafar, but I want one of our goals to preserve my grand father's castle. It's all I have left of his memory," heh paused and then continued, "so in addition to us taking on the traitors, we'll also be dealing with some cultists groups down there that literally worship my grand father, Vader, and his castle. We'll also be battling them."

"Hmmm, so we have three different tasks down on Mustafar," she sighed.

"Yes, exactly," Kylo replied as he worked the controls of his ship.

Rey was finally able to get a 'visual' of the surface of Mustafar and she spoke to Kylo again saying, "I've got a visual on the surface now. I am detecting weapons fire on the surface, but...." she paused, "the planet looks to be covered in ash, smoke and volcanic activity."

"Yes, it's true. It's a volcanic world. The atmosphere is breathable here, and the vapors look menacing, but the particles are so scattered that it shouldn't affect our ability to breath properly," he paused, "I'm glad you're here with me to help defend my grand father's legacy and to help me find these traitors of the First Order."

"No problem, but as much as I want to help you preserve and protect your grand father's castle, I believe our first priority should be to find any control panels on the surface of Mustafar that might disable that new super weapon. If someone can open fire on the surface of Mustafar, it will take out this entire world. Why don't we make your grand father's castle our second priority? This world needs to be saved first?"

Kylo nodded silently to himself in the cockpit. He knew she was making a good point and replied, "You're right. I can't let my personal feelings for my grand father's castle get in the way of preserving the whole of Mustafar first."

Suddenly, another voice broke through the COMM signal and Kylo and Rey heard a faint message coming through to both of their ships. It was the voice of Luke!

Kylo was shocked to hear his uncles voice coming over the COMM.

"Ben? Can you hear me? It's Luke. I know you don't want to speak to me or see me right now, but I overheard the conversation you were having with Empess Rey. Why don't you let me use my X-Wing and my light saber and I'll head directly to my father's castle. I will cover the castle and protect it as best as I can while you and Rey focus on stopping the super weapon from destroying this world. Figured I could be here to lend a hand?"

As Kylo sat listening to his uncle's voice, he felt a mixture of anger, feelings of wanting vengeance and also the pain that came with it, but he also knew that it was the Force's wish to bring balance to the galaxy and he replied, "Very well, Luke," Kylo began, "we will both see one another face-to-face soon enough to discuss and work through our troubled past, but if you are here to help preserve Vader's castle, I will accept the help so that Rey and I can focus on the super weapon."

"Glad to hear you're willing to allow me to help," Luke replied as he was now flying his X-Wing beside both Kylo and Rey's ships!

Kylo looked out of his cockpit window and saw Luke in the X-Wing. He stared at his uncle for a few seconds, but it was Luke that gave his nephew a nod. Kylo finally nodded back and then Luke said, "I'm heading straight for the cultists and my father's castle. I have to admit, my father and I had differing views on politics, but he was my father and it's all we have of him that is left."

"That's exactly how I feel," Kylo replied, "I admire my grand father and if you can save his castle's memory and legacy, I will take that into consideration when you and I finally work through our differences and past hostilities."

Luke made eye contact with Kylo through his cockpit and nodded, "Great. Consider it done."

Rey spoke to Luke through the COMM now and interjected, "Luke. I may not know you personally, but Ben has told me a lot about you. You are a former Jedi? However, how long has it been since you've used your powers with the Force? Are you up for this task?"

"Former Jedi?" Luke scoffed sarcastically, "I AM a Jedi, always will be," he paused as he flew by the TIE Whisper and looked at Rey, "I can handle this.  I have not lost my powers with the Force and am perfectly capable of using my light saber and my Force abilities to protect my father's castle. I'll be fine."

As soon as Luke said this to Rey, he diverted his X-Wing's course directly for Vader's castle to protect it. He would use his Force powers along with his X-Wing and light saber to do what had to be done!

Kylo and Rey finally managed to descend to the surface of Mustafar and land their ships. As soon as each of them opened the hatches of their ships, Rey made sure her light saber was hitched to her side and that her blaster was fully charged. She watched Kylo climb out of his Silencer and start walking toward her. She smiled as she watched him walking toward her. To her, he was a 'vision' of masculine beauty. Even in combat he took her breath away the way his cape billowed behind him and his black hair was being blown in the wind as he came closer.

Her attention was diverted from Kylo and she started looking at the volcanoes erupting everywhere and the red glow that covered the surface of this world and she was overwhelmed. As she started to disembark the Whisper, Kylo extended his hand to her and helped her the rest of her way down the ladder. 

"Not exactly a 'vacation spot' world, huh?" Rey asked playfully of Kylo.

Kylo smiled and looked around at Mustafar and replied, "No, perhaps not, but wouldn't you agree that Mustafar has a certain beauty of it's own? The red hues, the glow of the lava bouncing off of the atmosphere? There's something mystical about it and beautiful. It's unique."

Rey held onto Kylo's hand for a moment as she jumped down from the ladder of the Whisper and nodded saying, "I can see that, yes," she paused and then after she said this, she pointed off to the north of their current position and said, "Look, I think we have company. Get yourself ready."

Kylo looked where Rey was pointing to and nodded, "I see them. My sensors detected several divisions of troops down here, all First Order traitors," he paused and pulled his light saber off of his belt and ignited, "I'm ready, but before we charge toward them and take them all out, I want a kiss first."

Rey's eyes widened as she ignited her light saber and she smiled rather surprised and replied, "A Kiss? Right now? Those troops are closing in on us."

"We have a second," he replied quickly as he pulled Rey into his arms quickly and pressed his lips to hers, "Besides, just feeling you in my arms right before we go into combat ignites my passion. The Dark Side will flow through me even more now."

Rey laughed after he kissed her and replied, "I'm a Jedi that uses the Light. How would I possibly cause the Dark Side to flow through you more strongly?" she asked teasing him with a tap on his arm.

Kylo gave her a smile and replied, "I can't explain it, but when Dark Siders have their passions stirred, our concentration on the Force is even stronger, and you most definitely stir my passions, Rey."

Rey shook her head at Kylo and pointed at him playfully and said, "Hmmm, I see, well it's time for us to put romance and seduction out of our minds right now and get to work. Those troops are only a few yards away."

"We've got this Rey, you and I," Kylo replied as they both positioned their light sabers out in front of them in an offensive position.

They both started running side-by-side straight for the oncoming troops. The incoming traitor troops had no idea that between Kylo and Rey's Force powers, none of them stood a chance of survival...., but they were about to find this out.

Meanwhile, Luke had landed his X-Wing and was in active hand to hand combat against the cultists that were guarding Vader's castle and was easily mowing through the opposition and trying toi make his way into the entrance of Vader's castle.

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Kylo and Rey wasted no time whatsoever in running as fast as they could straight toward the oncoming traitor troops. They were about to unleash all of their Force abilities. As the traitor First Order troops saw their Supreme Leader and Empress charging directly for them, one of the commanders turned to a comrade of his and said nervously, "I think we all just signed our death certificates."

"What?" another traitor commander replied, "They are only two people against all of us. Your delusional."

"No, I'm not. Before I decided to betray the Supreme Leader and make this super weapon, I was very well aware of his power with the Force. He's lethal and can kill with just a motion of his hand or a thought. I hear the Empress is just powerful," he paused and his heart rate rose, "I might turn back. I don't think we can take the on and win."

"If you run away from this fight, I will personally kill  you!" the commander threatened, "you came this far, you can't turn back now! We're going to face the Supreme Leader and the Empress, whether you like it or not!"

The other commander shook his head and started breathing heavily as he replied, "You can laub all the threats at me that you want. I won't run away, but I'm telling you, today will be the last day we live. Facing the Supreme Leader and the Empress has ensured our deaths. We're both dead men already."

"Perhaps, but the Supreme Leader needs to be sent a message that we won't tolerate a Light Side Jedi as our Empress!"

As soon as the commander utter those words, Kylo and Rey were upon them. Their sabers were parrying back and forth with lightening speed and precision as they easily started mowing through the traitor troops that were in their path!

Chapter Text

Chapter 25:

Zero Hour: First Order and Resistance Work Together (Part 3)

Kylo and Rey wasted no time whatsoever in running as fast as they could straight toward the oncoming traitor troops. They were about to unleash all of their Force abilities. As the traitor First Order troops saw their Supreme Leader and Empress charging directly for them, one of the commanders turned to a comrade of his and said nervously, "I think we all just signed our death certificates."

"What?" another traitor commander replied, "They are only two people against all of us. You're delusional."

"No, I'm not. Before I decided to betray the Supreme Leader and work to make this super weapon, I was very well aware of his power with the Force. He's lethal and can kill with just a motion of his hand or a thought. I hear the Empress is just powerful," he paused and his heart rate rose, "I might turn back. I don't think we can take them on and win."

"If you run away from this fight, I will personally kill you!" the commander threatened, "you came this far, you can't turn back now! We're going to face the Supreme Leader and the Empress, whether you like it or not!"

The other commander shook his head and started breathing heavily as he replied, "You can throw all the threats at me that you want. I won't run away, but I'm telling you, today will be the last day we live. Facing the Supreme Leader and the Empress has ensured our deaths. We're both dead men already."

"Perhaps, but the Supreme Leader needs to be sent a message that we won't tolerate a Light Side Jedi as our Empress!"

As soon as the commander uttered those words, Kylo and Rey were upon them. Their sabers were parrying back and forth with lightening speed and precision as they easily started mowing through the traitor troops that were in their path!

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Kylo was filled with power of the Force, and all of the aggression that the Dark Side afforded him. He took it as a personal offense that his own troops would try to betray him like this. Rey was right at Kylo's side, mowing through the traitor forces with just as much skill and precision as Kylo.

Kylo stopped for a moment after mowing through and killing multiple traitor troops and cornered a commanding officer. He held his red light saber up to this commander's neck and said, "You think you will escape with your life for betraying me?"

The commanding officer was breathing heavily, sweat was pouring from his brow as he waited for Kylo's final blow. Rey was still in hand to hand combat with several of the traitor troops while Kylo was speaking with this commander. The commander spoke to Kylo, begging for his life saying, "Supreme Leader, please," he paused, "please spare my life. I was doing what I thought would please you."

"By building a super weapon without my authorization? Nothing in the First Order, or this entire galaxy, gets done without my permission and MY authorization. No, you knew what you were doing, and now you will pay with your life for betraying myself and the Empress," he paused, "all of you will die today."

Kylo continued, "I do not take it lightly when my own try and betray me. You've just breathed your last today," Kylo said as he swung his light saber and killed the commander where he stood. 

Rey saw Kylo strike the commander down and she ran up to him and said, "Ben, do you want to kill them all? Shouldn't we take some prisoners for questioning? I over heard you saying you were going to kill all of them?"

Kylo was filled with aggression and rage from the Dark Side. The only one who could calm him, or get through to him was his beloved Rey! Kylo lowered his light saber, turned to face her, and actually removed his mask. He looked her in the eyes and started taking slower breaths to calm himself. Just looking at Rey was enough to do that!

"Alright," he sighed with labored breaths, "as you wish."

Rey nodded to him and said, "Ben," as she placed a hand on his arm, "I want this to end as much as you do. I want the traitors to be brought to justice, but remember, you asked me to rule with you to bring balance, to bring the perspective of the Light Side into ruling this galaxy. As your lover, and as the Empress, I'm asking you to let some of them live. We need to take some prisoners for questioning. If we execute them all, we may not get the chance to glean the information we need for more intelligence."

Rey could sense Kylo's emotions through the Force. She knew Kylo and knew what he was feeling at this very moment. He was not a mystery to her! She knew him and understood him as she did her own soul.

She continued, "Ben, this fight is not over. I realize this, but we need to take some prisoners. Trust me on this."

Kylo nodded, "I can't seem to control my anger. The Dark Side controls my passions and....," he paused and continued to make eye contact with Rey and then continued, "very well. I will do as you suggest. You're right. I asked you to rule with me and bring your judgement into these situations."

Rey kept her right hand on his arm and continued, "Good. Now, let's take some prisoners. That doesn't mean we won't kill more traitors today, but we need to leave some of them alive so we can glean more information and intelligence."

Kylo nodded and submitted to her wishes. Rey was a bit surprised. She knew Kylo's emotions when it came to the Dark Side, and his history as a ruthless warrior, so the fact that he relented and took her advice moved her heart and soul deeply. Kylo actually managed to give her a very small smile before he put his mask back on and ignited his light saber once again as they both charged ahead into combat again together! The powerful team they made together struck fear into he hearts of those who witnessed them that day!

As they ran ahead to another line of traitors to confront them, Kylo spoke through the reverberator of his mask and asked Rey, "Do you think my uncle has been able to secure my grand father, Vader's Castle? I'm worried his journals and memories will be lost."

As Rey ran beside her first love she replied, "Ben, if I know anything about your uncle so far it's this: He's a powerful Jedi. He may not have agreed with your grand father's politics, but Vader is his father. Luke won't let what remains of your grand father's memories be wiped out. Trust me. He's got this. Your mother, also, is using all her firepower with the Raddus to combat the traitors as well. You will see that all will end well. Trust me."

"I do," Kylo replied. He gave Rey a nod. Even though he was wearing his mask again, Rey knew and could sense the expression that was on his face!

The two of them killed many more traitors, but also managed to take many more prisoner and detain them for further questioning. 

As Kylo and Rey worked in tandem with one another to take down traitors, Kylo looked over at Rey while they were both fighting side-by-side and he said, "Rey, we need to send word to the Finalizer to locate and destroy the super weapon. This new Death Star needs to be destroyed."

"I agree!" she said loudly above the noise of blaster fire and the sounds of their light sabers as they battled more traitors, "do you want to contact the Finalizer or should I?"

"I will contact them once we finish with these traitor troops here," he paused, "I will contact the Finalizer. Today that new Death Star dies at my command. No weapons get built in this galaxy without my authorization! I will never allow my authority to be overstepped again!" he said loudly.

Rey nodded. She knew all too well that he meant it! Kylo managed to kill several more traitor troops, but had several others taken into custody by storm troopers for further questioning at a later time. While there was a slight 'lull' in the fighting Kylo took out his mobile COMM from his pocket and contacted the Finalizer to relay his orders.

"Yes, Supreme Leader? General Pryde here."

"General, you are to locate this new super weapon immediately. Have my Knights, and every high ranking intelligence officer we have locate it. Once it's located, contact me at once. I want it destroyed the moment we locate it," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader. It will be done as you've asked," general Pryde replied.

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In the meantime, Luke had just finished battling multiple cult leaders that had been worshipping and guarding Vader's castle. He hadn't forgotten any of his Jedi skills or training. As he killed the last of the cult leaders, Luke meandered through his father's castle. He had mixed feelings of emotion as he walked through the castle looking at everything. He managed to find some of his father's old journals started to read through them. As he was reading through his father's journals, he had deeper insight into his father's political ideals and beliefs. Though he didn't agree with them, he also realized that this was all that remained of his father and he was glad he preserved these memories of Vader.

Luke was also hoping that by protecting Vader's castle for Kylo, it might give him the opportunity to make peace with his nephew for the first time in years! Little did Luke know, at this very moment, but it would soon become evident: he and Kylo WOULD make peace, and soon!

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"Yes?" Kylo said as he answered his mobile COMM.

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde began, "we've located the super weapon, Sir. Orders?"

Kylo removed his mask, looked at Rey. As they both locked eyes with one another, Rey gave him a nod of approval to do whatever he deemed necessary. Kylo replied, "The Empress and I will be returning to the Finallizer shortly with prisoners for interrogation. Once we board the Finalizer, we are going to set course for the location of the new super weapon. Also," he paused, "my uncle Luke will be joining us. Once he boards the Finalizer with the Empress and myself, I'm ordering you to do NO harm to him! He is not to be touched. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader."

"Luke may be a Jedi, but so is the Empress. He saved my grand father, Vader's castle, and his memories. That means something to me. Once the Empress and I board the Finalizer, we are going to jump to light speed. Once we arrive at the location of the new Death Star, we are going to call every available star destroyer within range, along with my mother's ship, the Raddus, and we are all going to open fire and destroy this new weapon. Understood?"

"Absolutely, Supreme Leader. Understood," General Pryde responded.

Chapter Text

Chapter 26: Peace Between Kylo and Luke and the Destruction of the Super Weapon (Part 1)

Luke was also hoping that by protecting Vader's castle for Kylo, it might give him the opportunity to make peace with his nephew for the first time in years! Little did Luke know, at this very moment, but it would soon become evident: he and Kylo WOULD make peace, and soon!

Kylo removed his mask, looked at Rey. As they both locked eyes with one another, Rey gave him a nod of approval to do whatever he deemed necessary. Kylo replied, "The Empress and I will be returning to the Finallizer shortly with prisoners for interrogation. Once we board the Finalizer, we are going to set course for the location of the new super weapon. Also," he paused, "my uncle Luke will be joining us. Once he boards the Finalizer with the Empress and myself, I'm ordering you to do NO harm to him! He is not to be touched. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader."

"Luke may be a Jedi, but so is the Empress. He saved my grand father, Vader's castle, and his memories. That means something to me. Once the Empress and I board the Finalizer, we are going to jump to light speed. Once we arrive at the location of the new Death Star, we are going to call every available star destroyer within range, along with my mother's ship, the Raddus, and we are all going to open fire and destroy this new weapon. Understood?"

"Absolutely, Supreme Leader. Understood," General Pryde responded.

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Kylo and Rey were escorted by storm trooper special forces, along with several of the Knights of Ren, to their ships so they could return to the Finalizer. Right as Kylo boarded his single man fighters, his COMM activated. While he was about to hit the button to activate the COMM and answer it, he noticed Rey boarding the TIE Whisper. He smiled to himself as he watched the love of his life board that ship. Within a few seconds, Rey shot him a 'nod with a smile' and closed the hatch. Before Kylo answered the COMM in his Silencer, he pulled his mobile COMM out of his pocket so he could speak with Rey first before they headed back to the Finalizer to go hunt the location of the new super weapon.

"Yes? Ben, it's me. Are you alright?" Rey asked.

"I'm fine," Kylo paused, "I just wanted to tell you how much I love you and enjoy having you fight by my side. We make a powerful team," he paused yet again, "also, I believe my uncle Luke is trying to make contact with me from my grand father's castle. I wanted to answer his COMM call before we headed back to the Finalizer."

"I love you too, Ben. You're just figuring out that you and I make a powerful team?" she chuckled as she nodded to him through the Whisper's cockpit window and then continued, "alright, thanks for letting me know. I will wait here in your Whisper and then we can fly back go the Finalizer together. Go ahead and answer Luke and see what he wants," Rey hesitated for a moment and then asked, "are you planning making peace with your uncle anytime in the future? I don't mean to pry or push you, but I'm just curious."

Kylo sighed and then took a couple of deep breaths before replying but then eventually said, "I will accept peace with my uncle. He not only fought for our cause today, but he put his life at risk to save my grand father's legacy and castle. I'm not saying he and I will be best of friends anytime soon, but my intentions toward him will no longer be hostile. I'm willing to hear him out."

Rey felt relieved. She breathed a sigh of relief and then said, "Ben, I'm glad to hear this, but there's something else I feel I need to share with you. It is in regards to a family member of yours, but I don't want to get into it right now. I will tell you later. However, I will tell you this: Your mother contacted me not long ago with information about your father and I promised to keep her secret and confidence until she felt the time was right for me to share it with you."

Kylo leaned back in his seat in shock, "My father?" he breathed deeply, "my mother shared something with you privately about my father?" he paused, "alright, I'm looking forward to what you have to share. I trust that there is a reason you've waited to share this with me."

"I do have a good reason, Ben, and so did your mother, Leia," she paused, "anyway, I'll wait right here in the Whisper until you speak with Luke and then we can all head to the Finalizer together. Go ahead and see what your uncle wants?"

Kylo nodded to Rey through the cockpit of the Silencer and then pushed a button to answer the COMM. Indeed, it was his uncle Luke making contact!

"Ben? This is your uncle Luke. Are you willing to speak with me for a few moments before we head to your flag ship?"

Kylo breathed deeply and replied, "Yes, Luke. I'm willing to hear you out. Go ahead."

"Thank you," Luke paused, "I managed to single handedly take down the cultists that were guarding Vader's castle. My father, and your grand father's legacy and memories, have been preserved. I suggest you place special forces in guard at all times at his castle if you wish to preserve security here at his castle on Mustafar. Or you could have the First Order install security measures with droids. Your choice, but either way, I suggest if you want to preserve his memory, you do so," he paused again rather uncomfortably and awkwardly and then continued, "also, do I have permission to board the Finalizer with you and Rey? I'd like to speak to you about making peace if we can. I know it may not be what you want, but I was hoping you'd be open to at least discussing it?"

Kylo ran his hand through his thick dark hair, took a few deep breaths before replying. He had so many emotions running through him at the moment where Luke was concerned. He still couldn't get the image of his uncle standing over him with a light saber ready to strike him down in his sleep, however, he was trying to obey the will of the Force by doing something new for the galaxy, not only asking Rey, a Jedi to join him, but to even make peace with other Force users, even Light Siders, something that had never been done before.

"Yes. I'm willing to post security at my grand father's castle. I had already considered it. As far as you coming back with Rey and I to the Finalizer, you have my permission. I will have my chefs prepare a meal and we can talk. I'll even invite my mother as well."

Luke breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank you, Ben. I've detained you long enough. I will meet you in the hangar bay of your flag ship in a few moments," he paused, "also, there is something you need to know about your father and I need to share it with you soon."

Kylo's eyebrows rose in amusement and he replied, "Yes, Rey has hinted to me already today that she has something along those lines to share with me where my father is concerned," he paused and started his engines, "alright, I'm leaving Mustafar now. I will give my hangar bay Captain the order to give you clearance to land. We will speak shortly. Kylo out......"

No sooner did Kylo close the COMM, Rey started the engines of the Whisper and both she and Kylo waited until they made visual contact with Luke's X-wing approaching before all three of them headed back to the Finalizer!

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As Kylo was flying back to the Finalizer, his mind was racing. He was about to speak with his uncle after so many years, possibly making peace, he was about to be informed by Rey, Luke and his mother something regarding his father and now he was worried about finding this new super weapon and destroying it. He was also thinking about he and Rey's intimate relationship. It had been days since they had been able to spend time alone. As he worked the controls of his ship, he contacted Rey and asked if, when this was all over, if she'd like to join him on a trip to a tropical world so the two of them could spend some time alone and solely focus on their love and relationship!

"Rey here," she smiled, "miss me already? I'll see you momentarily on the Finalizer, Ben," she teased him.

Kylo smiled with a light chuckle of his own. Rey could hear the low chuckle of his voice and it made her heart beat faster as she heard Kylo reply, "After all of this is over, what do you say you and I spend some much needed time alone? Intimate time alone on some tropical world? I miss just having you all to myself."

Rey actually blushed, even though they'd already made love a couple of times, he still had that effect on her and she replied, "I would love that, Ben. I will look forward to being alone with you. I've missed having time together alone as well."

"Consider it done," Kylo paused as he was bringing the Silencer into the hangar bay of the Finalizer to land, "we'll make the arrangements shortly."

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Luke followed Rey and Kylo into the hangar bay of the Finalizer, and as he did, he couldn't help feeling overwhelmed. The last time he was on board a star destroyer, he was a prisoner or an enemy. He hoped he'd be safe while visiting. 

As Kylo and Rey opened the hatches of their ships, special forces storm troopers were taking traitor First Order troops that had betrayed them to the detention cells on board the ship. Luke opened the hatch of his X-wing, and as he did, a couple storm troopers pulled blasters from their holsters and pointed them at Luke. Kylo saw this and was not pleased. He exited his Silencer and, without hesitation, he raised his hand, used the Force and pulled the blasters right out of the hands of the storm troopers that's were aiming at Luke.

Luke watched as Kylo's extended hand, with the power of the Force, caused those blasters to come flying across the hangar bay to himself. Once Kylo managed to disarm the troopers, he walked over to the two men and said, "I gave explicit orders that this Jedi was not to be harmed. You've seen what I did to other First Order troopers that defied me. Do you wish to join them and lose your life as well?" he asked angrily.

The two storm troopers stood down and were shaking with fear as they replied, "We apologize, Supreme Leader. It was a spontaneous act on our part. Please, spare us."

Kylo glared at the two troopers for a few seconds and then Luke came walking up to his nephew and said, "Thanks. For a minute there, I thought I had flown into a trap."

Kylo looked at Luke and replied, "You will not be harmed. Follow Rey and I to the bridge. We will talk soon, but first, we must find and destroy this super weapon."

As soon as Kylo finished saying this, Rey joined him as they both started to leave the hangar bay. Luke followed, and as he did, his eyes were scouting in every direction for anyone who might try to take a shot at him. He knew his nephew stirred fear in this troops, but he was still on guard nonetheless.

As soon as Kylo, Rey and Luke reached the bridge Kylo gave orders to contact his mother, "Open a channel to the Raddus. Inform General Organa that we are jumping to light speed momentarily. We know the location of the new super weapon and are going to use our combined power to destroy it," he paused, "also, inform commanders from the mid rim that every star destroyer we can spare must meet us at the super weapon's location near the Uknown Regions immediately."

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Chapter Text

Chapter 27: The Super Weapon is Destroyed A new government Asserts Itself

Luke followed cautiously behind Kylo and Rey, however past experiences, taught him to be cautious. He was beginning to trust that his nephew was sincere in making peace and bringing both sides of the Force together to rule the galaxy, but he was still on his guard. His dealings in the past with dark siders were not exactly trustworthy, but then again, Kylo didn't exactly have trustworthy dealings with those who used the Light Side of the Force either! In Kylo's mind, his own parents sent him away in fear of him, and then his own uncle tried to kill him in his sleep, so Kylo was also cautious due to his past dealings with Jedi and Light Side users of the Force. He was obeying the Force's mandate to bring balance to galactic government, yet somehow, deep inside of himself, he hoped that he and his family could be reunited despite their distrust, and that they could put their past behind them and make peace, even though he was still wounded from the past and hesitant, which he would NOT hesitate to explain to Luke in the near future. 

Kylo had made progress with his mother, which was a good thing, of course, however, old 'ghosts' remained that had to be dealt with, however he was finally beginning to feel optimistic that the Force would bring together this plan of 'balance' for the galactic government he and Rey were now leading. He only had to obey the Force's leading, but how would he overcome his pain from the past? He would be relying on Rey for that comfort, and for his trust in the Force as well.

As Luke followed behind Kylo and Rey to the bridge of the Finalizer, his eyes were acutely scanning the area around himself. Old habits die hard? Yes! Luke was accustomed to only being on board a star destroyer as a prisoner, but not as a guest!

Kylo and Rey led Luke the bridge of the Finalizer, and as they did, Kylo opened a COMM channel to his personal chefs in the Supreme Leader's Mess Hall and ordered them to prepare a meal for he and his uncle and Rey, and possibly his mother as well. He was dubiously optimistic, but was hoping the Force would show he and Rey the way forward when it came to balancing galactic government with the Dark and Light Sides working together! In Kylo's mind, when he asked Rey to join him, he knew very well that she was his equal in the Light side of the Force. Even Snoke himself admitted that Rey was Kyo's equal in power in the Light Side of the Force! It's not as though he was ignorant of this when he had asked Rey to join him. He wanted her there to help him govern the galaxy with balance between both sides. He was tired of the 'old ways' and wanted something new for the galaxy.  Though he adhered to dictatorship politics, and believed in them as his grandfather, Vader had done, but he wanted something new, something different for the galxaxy, and that included asking a Light Sider, Rey, whom he loved dearly, to help him rule this galaxy and do away with "the old ways that had to die".

Rey and Kylo finally entered the bridge of the Finalizer with Luke following behind them. A few of the First Order officers responded with doubt regarding Luke when he entered the bridge with Kylo and Rey, but they stood down when Kylo issued orders that his uncle was to be accepted and no hostile actions were to be taken against him. 

"This man accompanying me is a Jedi, yes, but he is also my uncle and has proven himself worthy of my trust. No hostile action is to be taken against him," he ordered firmly, "if anyone tries to raise a blaster against him, you will deal with me personally or the empress directly!" he spoke loudly.

Of course every officer on board the bridge was in reverential fear and awe of Kylo and would not disobey or transgress his orders.  Kylo walked over to a COMM console while he was speaking with General Pryde and asked, "Have we contacted General Organa yet? I need her to accompany us, if she's willing, to the location of the new super weapon. I also need all of our troops and star destroyers ready to be deployed, along with our special forces and TIE fighters," he asked.

"Yes, Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded "I have contacted General Organa. Your mother knows we are jumping to light speed and are on our way to destroy this super weapon that was constructed without your authorization."

"Very good," Kylo replied, "send general Organa the coordinates where we will be dropping out of light speed and engaging with traitor forces," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leader, we have done so," General Pryde replied.

Luke was standing quietly beside Kylo and Rey as he watched the First Order jump to light speed. He was cautiously optimistic that what his nephew had promised with Rey would be true. He took a seat on the bridge of the Finalizer with ease, trusting that what Kylo and Rey had told him was true. He was hoping to see his mother engage the enemy with the Raddus and he was also looking forward to engaging any enemy forces that were wanting to operate this super weapon.

Luke, along with Leia, were fully aware that Kylo was supporting the Dark Side with appreciation for dictatorship politics, but he was also willing to trust that with Rey ruling beside his nephew, that things would eventually change for the galaxy. Rey would be bringt Light Side views into galatic politics.  What Luke wanted was  a detailed conversation with Rey and his nephew of what their intentions were for the galaxy. Luke, along with Leia and Han, were aware that Kylo, Ben, was not willing to change his mind on the politics he believed in, but instead were willing to hear and Rey out and see what the Force was willing for the galaxy, something new!

While Kylo was on the bridge he asked, "What was General Organa's response?"

He was pleased to hear General Pryde's answer, "General Organa has agreed to helping support the effort to eliminate this super weapon from our galaxy. She apparently realizes that you, nor the Empress, have authorized such a weapon."

"No," Kylo replied, "I did not. No new weapons or plans for one are to be constructed without my or the Empress' direct authorization!" he responded, then continued, "the next Supreme Council meeting I demand a detailed response on how our Rim worlds are dealing with slavery and pirates. The Empress and I will tolerate neither."

"Yes, Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded, "I will have a detailed report for you on the economy of this galaxy, along with trade routes and interplanetary disputes,"he replied.

The Finalizer and the Raddus jumped to light speed and they were on their way to the site of the new super weapon. Kylo's intention was to destroy this weapon. It was not constructed on his or Rey's orders, therefore, it had to be destroyed!

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"Supreme Leader," a tactical officer began speaking, "we are entering the sector of the super weapon, Sir."

"Very well,' Kylo replied, "bring us into synchronous orbit around the weapon," he ordered, "when will the other star destroyers I ordered to be here will arrive?" he asked firmly.

"Any moment, now, Surpeme Leader," Genera Hux replied, "any moment we will have a visual on the super weapon."

"Good," Kylo replied, "once we destroy this weapon, I order that every single officer involved in the creation of this super weapon, without my authorization or authorization from the Empress be brought before me," he ordered.

"Yes, Supreme Leaader," General Hux replied.

Kylo and Rey watched intensely as they dropped out of light speed and finally saw the new super weapon with their own eyes. Kylo grunted with anger, "Of course, my people thought they would please me by doing this, but they have not. They have defied my orders for balance in the galaxy and I did not authorize the building of this weapon with myself or the Empress," he paused, "today we will destroy it and bring those responsible for acting on thier own before the Empress and myself!" he ordered firmly! Then he continued, "MY troops and forces will learn that they are never to initiate anything without my authorization or the that of the Empress!"

Luke was on the bridge of the Finalizer as they dropped out of light speed and finally saw the new Death Star, super weapon. Kylo gave the order as he stood on the bridge to destroyed it.

"Supreme Leader," a tactical officer began, "we have the weapon in view now," he paused ,"orders, Sir?"

"Open fire with every star destroyer we have here, along with our TIE fighters, take out that weapon!" he ordered firmly and angrily.

"Open firing now, Sir," his officers replied to his orders, "direct hit, Sir."

Kylo, Rey, Luke and Leia watched as Kylo's flag ship, the Finaizer, along with the Raddus and multiple star destroyers and TIE fighers all concentrated their firepower on the new super weapon!

"Fire" Kyo said with a very loud and firm command, "take that weapon out! I want it destroyed!"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," a couple tactical officers replied, "open firing now, Sir."

Luke watched intently as the Finalizer used it's ventral cannons, ion cannons and Elite special forces TIE fighers to open for on the new super weapon. He was amazed that his nephew was destroying it and open to incorporating the Light side of the Force in to governing the galaxy. Even though he and Leia knew that Kylo would never back down from his belief in dictatorship politics, they were beginning to trust his new vision for balance in the galaxy, especially after asking Rey to join him!

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Kylo gave the order to open fire on the new super weapon. The Finalizer, along with other star destroyers and the cooperation of the Raddus, managed to destroy and totally dismantle the new super weapon.

Kylo spoke up loudly while on the bridge in front of his officers and subordinates and said, "Nothing will done in this galaxy without the express permission of myself or the Empress!" he paused for a few seconds and then continued, "open fire! Take out that weapon!" he ordered angrily. The Finalizer opened fired with everything they had, along with several other star destroyers and the Raddus as well and managed destroy the new super weapon!

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Luke watched this take place with baited breath. He had a mixture of relief that his new super weapon had been destroyed by his nephew's flag ship, along with the Raddus, but he was also optimistic that he and his nephew could make peace after all of these years.

"Supreme Leader," an officer began, "our sensors show that the weapon has been disabled, Sir. It is not longer able to travel at hyperspace speeds or target any other star systems."

"Very good," Kylo replied as Rey and Luke listened, "bring the commanders responsible for trying to arm this weapon without my authorization to the detention cells immediately. They will remain there under arrest until the Empress and I decide what to do with them," he ordered.

"Yes, Sir, right away," the officers on the bridge replied.

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 Luke stood mesmerized by the destruction of this new super weapon. He didn't anticipate this his nephew would ever do such a thing. He finally began to realize that his nephew had indeed heard from the Force to create a totally new galactic government. A government that included both the Light and the Dark Sides. The Finalizer open fired, along with several other star destroyers and the Raddus, on the new super weapon. Within just a few minutes, the Supreme Leader and the Empress had managed to destroy this new super weapon that was constructed without their authorization or permission!

As Rey watched Kylo, the love of her life, give orders to destroy this new super weapon, she vividly recalled her memories of him telling her that 'all the old ways had to die'. She smiled to herself as she watched the Finalier, the Raddus, along with other star destroyers destroy this new super weapon and she remembered Kylo's words, "It's time for old things to die." and he was making good on that!

Kylo kept ordering them to open fire!

"Keep firing!" he ordered loudly, " I want nothing left of this weapon," he paused, "from now on, no weapon or any other galactic decision will be made without the prior authorization of myself or the Empress!"

Luke sat in a chair on his nephew's bridge utterly amazed. He witnessed the destruction of a super weapon he thought his nephew would approve an endorse, but little did he know, but Kylo and Rey were about to host him in a dinner explaining to him WHY they would not allow any weapons to be built without their authorization and how they both wanted to bring balance, using the Light and Dark Sides of the Force to bear on the government of the galaxy!

During Luke's visit on board the Finallizer, he was about to have a dinner with his nephew, Rey and his sister, Leia, that would forever bring peace and balance to the galactic government, much to his surprise! Luke was soon to be surprised by Kyo and Rey hosting he and Leia on board the Finalizer with their official proposal for a new government. For the first time in galactic history, Kyo and Rey offer hope for the galaxy: Both sides of the Force ruling!

Chapter Text

Chapter 28: Leia Visits the Finalizer for a Political Meeting With her Son and Rey and News of Han!

Luke was amazed while watching the destruction of the super weapon at his nephew's own orders. He had assumed Kylo would have wanted that weapon, but instead, was surprised by his lack of interest in such a weapon. Kylo further explained to Luke that he and Rey's tactics were not to use death and intimidation to bring star systems into obedience. They had an entirely new approach to government, which Leia and Luke would soon hear about once they arrived at Kylo and Rey's private dining area for a meal.

The super weapon exploded with such intensity that every star destroyer, including the Finalizer, and the Raddus, shook and jolted from the blast!

The entire bridge of the Finalizer jolted under the shock wave that emanated from the super weapon's destruction. Before Luke and Rey invited Leia and Luke to dinner, Kylo turned to his uncle and said, "Rey and I have a lot to share with you and my mother regarding the new government we are bringing. Rulers that came before me, Palpatine, Snoke, even my own grandfather, Vader, would never have considered asking a Light Side user, a Jedi, to join them to rule the galaxy. I firmly believe it's time for old politics to die. Rey and I will explain more soon."

Luke nodded as he followed Rey and his nephew off of the bridge, "I look forward to hearing this. I had my doubts whether you and Rey were sincere," he paused as he kept looking around at every corridor they walked through, keeping a close eye on storm troopers, "I hope that this new vision you say the Force has given you will come to pass."

"It will," Rey interjected, "once Leia arrives, Ben and I will explain fully what our plan is."

Kylo, Rey and Luke were intercepted in a main corridor while on their way to the dining hall by Lieutenant Mitaka, "Excuse the intrusion, Supreme Leader, however I wanted to inform you that General Organa's transport has landed in our hangar bay."

"Good," Kylo nodded, "have two of my Knights escort General Organa to our private dining hall. I'm assigning my Knights to escort her for her own safety. Though I've given the order not to harm General Organa, there may be a stray trooper that could potentially open fire and I want Vicrul and Ushar to escort General Organa straight to myself and the Empress."

"Yes, Supreme Leader," Lieutenant Mitaka replied and then he scurried away to contact Vicrul and Ushar and relay Kylo's orders.

Once they arrived in the dining hall, Kylo motioned for Luke to take a seat. Rey sat right beside Kylo at the head of the table. Before Leia arrived, Kylo took a few moments to inform Luke of he and Rey's plans for the galaxy. Luke still wondered if all of this was some sort of hoax or a trap, but the more he listened to his nephew and Rey, the more he was beginning to believe that true change was coming for the galaxy.

Kylo reached for his mask and removed it. He set it down beside him on the table, and for the first time in a while, Luke was looking directly into the eyes of his nephew. Luke felt uneasy. He kept remembering Kylo's pain, anger and shock from that night that he was standing over his bed about to kill him and it sent shivers down his spine. He felt ashamed that he had tried to murder Ben, but now was hoping that the two of them could find some kind of peace with one another.

Kylo spoke first saying, "Uncle Luke, I won't pretend that our past history with one another has been easy," he paused, taking a deep breath and then continued, "I can't forget the past. I didn't think you were capable of almost murdering me in my sleep. I looked up to you as my mentor. You, along with others who use the Light Side of the Force left me feeling hated and abandoned. However, I am willing to try to obey the Force and bring balance to this galaxy. Part of my obedience to the will of the Force is to even make peace with Light Siders and to work with them, that is why I asked Rey to join me."

Luke nodded, dipping his head for a moment, then looked back up at Kylo and replied, "I do regret my actions that night, Ben.  Shame washed over me after you saw me standing over you with my saber that night," he paused, "I realize I cannot take that night back, Ben, but if you are willing to work with Light Siders, and do something different for the galaxy, then I'm willing to listen. I'm sorry, Ben, for the past."

Kylo kept a straight face, not showing much emotion at all, which was not unusual for him and then replied, "I am willing to work with Light Siders because, not only is it the will of the Force, I also realize that BOTH sides of the Force are necessary in ruling this galaxy. You also showed me you were willing to work for peace with me when you defended my grandfather's castle on Mustafar. You showed that his memory shouldn't be lost," Kylo paused and then said something that shocked Luke even more as he continued, "I admire my grandfather, Vader, so deeply. I believe in his political ideas, however, my grandfather and I differ in only one area. No ruler that came before me, Palpatine, Snoke, even my grandfather ,would have asked for a Light Sider to join them to rule the galaxy. Galactic politics have failed for generations. There has been no stability in this galaxy. The Sith rose to power, then they fell and then the Jedi rose to power and then they fell. I am tired of the 'back and forth', unstable politics that have come before me. As my grandfather's heir, I asked Rey to join me so that both sides of the Force are used in governing. The Force is 'one', not two. Both the Light and the Dark Sides make up the one living Force. If I ignored the Light Side and only ruled alone using the Dark Side, I'd be ignoring half of the living Force, as those who came before me did. Asking Rey to join me was the Force's wisdom," Kylo paused and looked over at Rey for a few seconds and then continued, "I also asked her to join me because I fell in love with her."

Rey's eyes watered and she smiled warmly at Kylo, gripping his gloved hand tightly and said, "I love you too, Ben."

Kylo looked back over at Luke and continued, "It's time for old things to die, the Sith, the Jedi, the Resistance, all of it. I'm tired of politics that haven't proved to be stable for generations. It's time for Rey and I to bring a new form of government, one in which BOTH the Light sides and Dark Sides are ruling together. We hope to bring balance to the Force and to politics."

"I see, however, you still endorse dictatorship politics, Ben?" Luke asked.

Kylo nodded, "I do. I have my reasons. I see a Republic, with a senate that argues for weeks on end to get one single law passed, as inefficient and time consuming. When I make a law, or I should say, when Rey and I make a law, we are the final authority and those laws get implemented immediately. There is no back and forth arguments in a Republic Senate while worlds wait for relief, or trade routes fall prey to pirates, or if I'm hunting down worlds that still practic slave labor. I could go on and on. As Supreme Leader, I pronounce action or pronounce a law, and my orders are carried out immediately. No back and forth debates. I see dictatorship politics as efficient. By asking Rey to join me, this way all voices are heard in the galaxy. Rey and I have representatives from both Light and Dark Siders that will visit us and brief us on how their star systems are doing and what the First Order can do to ensure they prosper. Just because I adhere to dictatorship politics does not mean I don't care for the well being of the galaxy. I do. I want law, order and for it's citizens to prosper. As soon as an issue comes up, even between worlds that threaten war with one another, or if a piracy situation breaks out, I am able to issue the orders to deal with those issues right away, no delays. Rey and I are not out to change one another. She will always use the Light Side and I will always use the Dark. We will compromise and discuss issues and laws between us and then arrive at balanced decisions," he explained.

Luke could hardly believe his ears. In astonishment he replied, "So, it really is true then? You are willing to let Light Siders into the government of the First Order?"

"To a certain degree," Kylo replied, "Yes, Rey and I will receive visits from dignitaries from worlds that adhere to the Light Side and will take their concerns to heart, however, Rey is the ultimate Light sider who I will be listening to. As Empress, she and I are the final authority in this galaxy, however, you can be sure that both sides will be taken into account when we govern, but Rey is the ultimate Light Sider I will be turning to in making final decisions."

Rey interjected, "Luke, this has never before been done in the history of this galaxy. Think about it? All those who came before Ben would never have considered asking me to rule with them and bring the Light Side. Never," she paused, "Ben's vision is my vision now as well for the galaxy. I trust him and he trusts me. He's right. Neither he nor I will try to change one another. We love and accept one another for who we are. I believe in what the Force is trying to do. I agree with Ben that the galaxy has dealt with unstable politics for generations. It's time for the old ways to die. Ben is correct. Can you see this, Luke and trust he and I to carry out the Force's wishes?"

As soon as Rey had finished saying this, Vicrul and Ushar had just escorted Leia into the dining hall. As soon as Leia walked in, Kylo stood from the table in order to show his mother respect. Leia was glad that Kylo's mask was off so she too could look into the eyes of her son. After Leia took her seat, she thanked Kylo and Rey for inviting her.

Kylo replied, "Mother. Welcome," he paused, still not showing much emotion, but Leia could sense her son's emotions through the Force as he spoke with her, "you used your command ship to help Rey and I destroy the super weapon today. Neither I, nor the First Order, will forget that. Rey and I are appreciative of the resources you sent, along with your troops and X-wings."

Rey nodded, "It's true, Leia. Thank you. Ben and I do not the 'old' ways of bringing star systems into obedience. He and I do not believe in planet killing weapons to instill fear into the hearts of those who live in this galaxy. That too is part of the 'old politics' that Ben and I want to end," she paused and then continued, "don't get me wrong. Ben and I will do what we must to maintain law and order and we won't hesitate to send destroyers or troops to a world that needs us or is violating laws, however, neither he or I believe in a third Death Star."

Leia was amazed as well and then she replied, "I will admit that at first I didn't know whether to trust you and Ben or not. I was doubtful that what you both were proposing could actually happen in this galaxy. However, if you and my son are sincere in this, I know I speak for myself, my brother Luke, and all of us who use the Light Side, we will work alongside you to see the Force's vision obeyed. It's just as difficult for us Light Siders to trust the Dark Side," Leia paused, "it is going to take time for both sides to trust the other."

Kylo agreed, "I agree. It's taken a lot for me to even being open to trusting Light Siders again," he took a deep breath and then continued, "but I won't disobey the will of the Force. I will do what I can to listen to work with you and learn to trust again."

As soon as Kylo said this, Leia took a deep breath and then looked directly at Rey. Rey caught Leia's gaze from across the table. She knew what Leia wanted to tell Kylo. Leia looked over at her son with a seriousness in her eyes and replied, "Now that we have discussed our trust issues and have discussed the new plans the Force has for this galaxy, I have something to share with you, Ben," she paused for what seemed like a long time, "I have something to tell you about your father, Han."

Instantly, Kylo tensed up. He hadn't seen or spoken to his father since before Leia sent him to Luke. Kylo replied, "My father?"

"Yes," Leia continued, "your father wishes to see you and speak with you. He's alive, Ben."

Kylo's eyes never left his mother's. He leaned back in his chair with a deep breath and then replied, "This won't be easy, but I'll listen."

"Your father and I both have deep regrets, Ben. We should never have sent you away. I see now, through the Force's working through you and Rey, that the Dark Side IS just as much a part of the Force as the Light, however, back when you were a teenager, your father and I feared you. We didn't want you to use the Dark Side so we sent you to Luke. I didn't have the insight I have now and truly felt, at that time, that I was doing the right and responsible thing, however, I now realize I gave you, my son, the wrong impression. I have never stopped loving you, Ben. Your father and feared your grandfather and we feared the Dark Side."

Kylo's expression was riveted on his mother as she spoke and he replied, "I accept your apology. I also realize the politics at the time were different than what Rey and I are trying to do now, however, it still pains me to know that my parents sent me away just because I used the Force differently or in a way you disagreed with," he paused and looked over at Rey, took her hand and continued, "Rey, a Jedi, accepts me for who I am and will not try to change me, nor will she leave me. I will not change her nor leave her either. It's time for this fear between the Dark and Light Sides to end. Both are aspects of the cycle of the living Force," he paused and then continued, "I accept your apology. Now you're telling me Dad is alive and wants to speak with me?"

Leia nodded solemnly, "Yes. He hopes you will consider it, Ben."

Kylo hesitated for a brief few seconds and then replied with a serious nod, "Alright," he paused, "I will see him."

Chapter Text

Chapter 29:  Finally Some Intimate Time Alone for Kylo and Rey (Part 1)

"Your father hopes you will consider seeing him?" Leia asked with anticipation in her expression.

"Alright," Kylo replied, "I will see him."

Rey felt overwhelmed emotionally. She was just beginning to get to know Kylo's family, and his history with them, but she was relieved to see that he was open to speaking with his father. Leia felt relieved and she shot Luke a quick glance of relief as well.

"I'm glad to hear it, Ben. I will get word to your father," she paused, "when can I tell your father he can see and speak with you?"

Kylo took Rey by the hand and rubbed her fingers inside of his own and replied, "Soon. For now, I promised Rey that she and I were going to have some time alone. We need it. Between politics and combat situations these last few weeks, she and I have had no time together. We plan to take at least a two day trip alone to a tropical world. Once we return, I will contact you on the Raddus to arrange a time to see Dad."

"Very good," Leia began, then she did something that truly caught Kylo off guard. She extended her hand across the table to Kylo. 

Kylo looked at his mother's hand extended toward him and pondered for a few seconds with hesitancy before finally reaching back. Leia's eyes watered as she held her son's hand for the first time in years. Neither Kylo nor Leia knew what to say for a couple of minutes. Kylo and Leia were both stunned that this kind of peace had finally been brought between them. Luke looked on in amazement as well. Both Luke and Leia were finally beginning to believe that what Kylo and Rey had promised was actually possible now. 

Kylo nodded to his mother and said, "Alright. I will consider today a success. A peace is now in effect between myself, you and the Resistance," he paused and looked over at Luke and continued, "I will put the past behind me with you as well as long as you are willing to accept me for who I am and to work with Rey and I to bring balance?"

Luke nodded to his nephew, "Yes. I will work with you and Rey to help bring balance. I agree that both sides of the Force should learn to govern together. Enough of generations of politics that weren't stable and endless lives being taken."

Kylo nodded back, "Agreed. At first, when the Force brought this vision to my attention, I was hesitant, not wanting to give in to it, nor did I believe it could be possible. I struggled with the idea of working with Light Siders, or even considering the Force's wishes, however, I'm trained in both sides of the Force, and now see how vital it is to use the entire Force, not just one side," he paused, "I don't consider the past forgotten, but I do forgive the past between us. Some things are difficult to forget, but we can choose to pursue peace, balance and trust with one another going forward."

Another hour or so passed while they all ate and talked politics and family business. Of course, before Leia and Luke left the Finalizer to head back to the Raddus, Leia confirmed with Kylo that he was willing to see Han and Kylo continued to agree to a meeting with his father in the near future, however, he made it clear that he and Rey wanted some much needed time alone. Who knew when the next galactic crises would arise? So, he and Rey wanted some time in private before other things began to pull at them wanting their undivided attention!

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Kylo and Rey made sure they were left alone in their quarters all night that night. They were both utterly exhausted from days of combat and just wanted to fall asleep in one another's arms undisturbed. Kylo held Rey close against his chest all night. Rey smiled to herself as she drifted off to sleep in his arms while listening to the soft sounds of his breathing and his heart beat. Kylo gently rubbed her back with his hand as she lay against him. They wanted to make love, and had missed this with one another, but were so exhausted that they agreed to wait to share that again when they were finally alone.

They agreed to visit Scarif for two days. Kylo knew that Scarif had been an Imperial world for years, and was now under the jurisdiction of the First Order. It would be perfect since it was already fully patrolled by First Order troops and forces and heavily guarded. It was also the perfect tropical environment for them to spend some much needed time alone. 

Kylo piloted his Command Shuttle himself. He wanted to make the trip with Rey to Scarif enjoying their fight without troopers and pilots being on board. The Command Shuttle was stocked with everything they'd need for a two day trip to Scarif and Kylo made sure to leave his orders with Generals Hux and Pryde to keep him informed of any emergencies that might arise in he and Rey's absence.

Kylo brought the Command Shuttle to a gentle landing not far from the beaches. He found a beautiful clearing of palm trees and local foliage to set the shuttle down in and the scenery took Rey's breath away. 

Rey sat looking out the window of the shuttle and remarked with wonder, "This world is beyond beautiful. I've never seen such beauty. Growing up on Jakku I never realized worlds like this existed," she paused as she kept looking out the window, "you say this was under the control of the Empire too for years?"

Kylo shut the engines down and turned to smile at Rey, taking hold of her hand in his and replied, "Yes, this world used to be under the Empire's jurisdiction, now it's under our jurisdiction in the First Order. I chose to keep this world for the First Order and since it was already staffed with troops and heavily armed assets, I chose to keep it. I've visited here a couple of times when I wanted time alone, but I'm glad you're with me this time," he said as he kissed the back of her hand.

Rey blushed with a warm smile as he kissed the back of her hand and she replied, "How is it that you can still make me blush?"

Kylo chuckled lightly to himself and simply replied with a smile right back at her, "I hope I always can. I hope that never changes between us," he then got a more seductive and serious look in his eyes and continued, "I can't wait to have you all to myself here on Scarif. I love you, Rey. My life feels complete with you in it."

"It won't change between us," Rey replied, "if anything, I see you and I becoming closer and more intimate with each passing day. I'm feeling complete now that I have you too."

Kylo stood to his feet while still keeping hold of Rey's hand and then they walked down the ramp together. As soon as Rey stood outside in the fresh air, she breathed in deeply, taking in the scenery of the blowing palm trees and listening to the ocean surf and said, "All of this just for the two of us for the next couple of days?"

Kylo nodded, "Yes, just you and I," he pause and then gently pulled her into his arms, looked down into her eyes and continued, "I will show you where we're staying," he leaned down to press his lips to hers and then continued, "we can have dinner by a beach fire tonight and then....," he paused again, "can I make love to you afterward? I've missed feeling you in my arms, especially after all we've been through lately."

Rey leaned in close to him and gave him a lingering and slow kiss and then replied, "I want the same. I've missed you too. I know we've been together the entire time we've dealt with these galactic troubles these past few days, but nothing compares to being alone with you here," she paused, "and yes, I want to make love with you tonight.... I've thought about it a lot."

"You have?" Kylo asked with a raised eyebrow of amusement, "really?"

"Yes, really," Rey replied.

They walked hand-in-hand to a small beach house that Kylo owned. Kylo picked Rey up in his arms and carried her through the door of the beach house and kept her in his arms, leaning down to press his lips to hers again. 

"I can't get enough of you," he sighed with a look of desperation in his eyes and voice.

"I can't get enough of you either, Ben."

That evening they cooked dinner out on the beach seated next to a fire that Kylo had built for them. After they had dinner, they went back into the beach house and couldn't wait to come together again and make love.....

Kylo and Rey had only made love twice before, so this experience was still fairly new for both of them. As Kylo hovered over Rey and she glanced up into his dark eyes, his dark thick hair framing his face so beautifully she sighed, "Ben, let me feel you. I love you so much."

Kylo kept himself hovered over her while leaning down to press his lips to hers...., "I love you, Rey. All I want is to feel you all night long in my arms," he paused, kissed her passionately and then continued with a longing sigh, "You will never lose me. You have my heart forever."