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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: The Supreme Leader and a Jedi: The Ultimate Love Story

Kylo was on the bridge of his flag ship, the Finalizer, when he heard the galaxy-wide-announcement by, who he thought was the LATE emperor Palpatine. He was filled with wrath as Palpatine's voice cackled over the COMM system. 

"This is Emperor Palpatine," the voice started, "I have designs on ruling this galaxy once again. My fleet is prepared. No one will be able to stand against me," Palpatine said with confidence.

Kylo paced his bridge. Every eye was on him. Every general, every officer's eyes were riveted on Kylo, their new Supreme Leader, for guidance. Would he put up with this? Would he allow Emperor Paplatine to come back into power or would he fight to retain his power?

"How long ago was this galaxy-wide transmission made?" Kylo asked.

"About an hour ago, Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded, "we will not give our allegiance to another, Sir. You are our Supreme Leader and out loyalty lies with you."

"Ready my TIE Whisper," Kylo ordered with authority, "I will not have my authority challenged. There is ONE ruler of this galaxy right now and that's me," he paused, "let me know as soon as my ship is prepared."

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde interjected, "do you want extra forces, troops or back up, Sir?"

"No," Kylo stated firmly as his hand angrily gripped his light saber that was still hitched to his belt, "I will face him alone. I thought he was dead, apparently I was wrong. I will face him and end him myself. His time has come and gone. The Sith have to end," he paused, "Palpatine, along with any Sith loyalists will be facing me directly soon," he replied, and as he headed for the bridge door to leave he added, "and you are to maintain COMM silence about this unless it's to contact me on a secure and private channel, do you understand?"

"Yes, Supreme Leader," General Pryde responded with a nod.

Kylo disappeared and left the bridge and was headed straight for his TIE Whisper. As he walked along, everyone that passed him in the corridors knew something was wrong. The body language Kylo was giving off was wrath. They knew he was on his way to confront something, however, Kylo ordered that it be kept top secret for the time being. 

Once he finally arrived at the hangar bay, the Captain on duty said, "Supreme Leader, your ship is ready, Sir. Fully armed and fueled."

Kylo nodded, but didn't speak a word. He brushed past the hangar bay Captain with authority and purpose. 

Kylo opened the hatch to his TIE Whisper, climbed inside and then started the engines. As he was starting his engines, he so wished that Rey had accepted his offer to join him several months beforehand. He wanted her power and expertise in the Force by his side as he faced Palpatine, however, he was willing to do do alone if need be, and that is exactly what he was intending on doing. He would not let another so-called 'challenger' come against him and would certainly not allow another ruler to come to power while he was the Supreme Leader!

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Kylo's TIE Whisper was racing at light speed and on it's way to Exegol. It would take several hours to reach Exegol, but he was patient. He was determined to show himself to Palpatine, inform him that his time had ended and that he would not allow him, or anyone else for that matter, to overshadow his rule over the galaxy. Any challenge to Kylo's authority would be met with the fiercest battles from him.

Kylo landed his TIE Whisper on Exegol's surface a few hours later. He didn't receive any resistance from Sith loyalists, which surprised him a bit. Palpatine was expecting Kylo's visit and was fully prepared to face this challenge. What Palpatine didn't know was exactly how powerful Kylo had become with the Dark Side of the Force. Palpatine was a sith Lord, yes, but Kylo had been trained in BOTH sides of the Force and was very well trained, so much so that he wielded his grand father Vader's power with skill and unforgiving ability!

Kylo made his way, again unhindered by any Sith loyalists, straight to a stone elevator. He boarded it, pulled his light saber from his belt and ignited it. He was fully prepared to combat any Resistance from Sith loyalists, should it arise. Kylo was thinking how strange it was that no one was sent to intercept him. He then began to 'sense' Palpatine's thoughts with the Force. 

"Ahh," Kylo thought to himself as the elevator reached the bottom level, "I know what your plan is. Your thoughts give you away."

Kylo could easily read anyone's thoughts through the Force, but could also sense their intentions. That is how he knew how to outwit Snoke and kill his old master. He knew what Snoke's intentions were and did away with him. He was determined to do the same with Palpatine.

Kylo walked along carefully surveying the area as he traversed the dark and lightening filled Sith Temple. Kylo, though a Dark Side user of the Force, did not adhere to Sith idealogies and did not intend them to rise to power again in the galaxy. He was Supreme Leader and ruler and no one would usurp that from him as far as he was concerned! 

As Kylo made his way through the dark corridors, occasionally lit by lightening bolts crackling in diverse places, his thoughts trailed to Rey. 'I wish she were here with me, fighting by my side as we did against the Praetorian Guards'.

He hoped that Palpatine did not sense his thoughts. He did not want his feelings or his hopes for Rey to be intercepted by Palpatine. 

"Ahhh, my boy!" Kylo heard Palpatine's old crackling voice through the dark corridors, "you've come. I anticipated as much."

"You will die," Kylo blurted out loudly, "I rule this galaxy and today you will face me."

"I've died before," Palpatine cackled loudly once again, "you can't remove me. My fleet is too powerful."

"You underestimate me and my power with the Dark Side. I am trained in the entirety of the Force, both the Light and the Dark, you will not see another day by the time I'm finished with you," Kylo replied as he picked up his pace to where Palpatine was located.

Finally, Kylo meandered his way through several dark corridors before seeing Palpatine suspended on some kind of machine! He stood there with his saber lit at his side examining Emperor and then scoffed, "You are being kept alive by a mere machine and you expect me to be intimidated by you? You will die today, old man," Kylo threatened loudly.

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Meanwhile, Rey was on Ajan Kloss training. Leia had her on a very strict training program which Rey followed each day without excuse. As she was running her training course, she suddenly felt the Force connect her with Kylo. She and Kylo had shared a Force Bond for months now. Most of the time Rey tried to block him or their conversations would be mixed with angst, however, what she didn't want to admit to herself, or anyone else right now, was that she cared deeply for Kylo. She'd seen his heart and soul when she touched hands with him over that fire on Ahch-to, however, she left him alone that day on the Supremacy due to her fear of joining someone who used the Dark Side. 

As she stopped the training course, breathing heavily, the Force gave her a 'vision'. In this vision, she saw Kylo standing on Exegol, alone. She also saw a Dark figure she hadn't known before. This Dark figure appeared to be suspended by machinery. All the Force showed her was Kylo on Exegol facing Palpatine.

Rey sat down on a log, breathing heavily from her exertion during her training course. She couldn't shake the image from her mind. 

"Why is the Force showing me this? I don't want to join him," she paused, running her hand over her forehead, "I've made that clear, yet the Force continues to connect us," she said to herself out loud.

As the 'vision' continued, she saw Kylo threatening Palpatine, holding his light saber out toward him. Rey closed her eyes, concentrated deeply in the Force so she could see more clearly. The bond she had with Kylo enabled she and he to exchange solid objects through time and space, to share touches, to share thoughts and emotions. She could feel Kylo's wrath through the Force. Their Bond was something she wished wasn't there, but then again, was she really that sorry for their Bond? Not really. Deep inside of her, she cared for Kylo. Could it be love? Even if she did feel a deepening caring, and possibly love, for him, what was she supposed to do with what the Force was showing her?

She suddenly bolted across the training course, found Leia and asked for an X-Wing. 

"Rey?" Leia asked curiously, "Force! What's wrong with you? You're so out of breath!"

"Leia," Rey asked heaving heavily due to running all the way back to base, "I need an X-Wing. Do I have your permission to take one? I have an errand. it's important. I can't explain right now. It's personal, but I have to go."

"What?" Leia asked, "every mission has to be logged officially with me and our system, Rey, you know this. Where is it you want to go?"

"Leia," Rey continued, "please trust me? You trust me right?"

"Yes."

"Well, trust me now? I need an X-wing, now!" she insisted, "please."

"Very well. There is an X-wing fueled and armed. Go ahead and take it, but once you return, I'd like a full report from you?"

"I will do that," Rey replied as she ran out of the command center, "you have my word."

Rey boarded the only fueled and armed X-Wing and started the engines. Was she crazy, she wondered? Why was she headed to Exegol to help a person she considered her enemy? However, did she consider him her enemy truly? Not really, but she knew they didn't see eye to eye yet.  All she knew was that despite their differences, she cared for Kylo and she knew the Force well enough to know that the Force would not have shown her this vision unless it was important!

Rey lifted off the surface of Ajan Kloss, and before long, jumped to light speed and was on her way to Exegol. She chided herself, wondering what she was doing? Had she lost her mind? Why was she flying as quickly as she could to help him in this dangerous situation? She didn't even know how to answer all of this yet, but she was on her way nonetheless to Exegol.

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As Kylo stood before Palpatine, his saber lit and pointed at the old man, he could sense Rey's Force signature! He began to look around him, nearly feeling her presence as if she was physically in the same area as he was. He didn't see her, but he sensed her. He knew Rey was on her way. His Bond with her was so strong that he just KNEW it. He kept his light saber lit and pointed at Palpatine and continued, "Today you die, old man. No one rules this galaxy except me!"

Even though Kylo's concentration was on ending Palpatine that day, his heart swelled with anticipation of seeing Rey. He absolutely KNEW she was on her way. He could sense her in the Force. Did she really care? Perhaps she did want to take his hand after all? He didn't know. All he knew was that their Bond in the Force was drawing Rey to him and his heart was full at the thought.

"I sense another on their way here," Palpatine cackled.

Kylo knew Palpatine could sense Rey and he said, "It's just me here. You will answer to me!"

"No, there is a Jedi on their way here. I can't see the entire picture, but someone else is coming," Palpatine interjected.

Kylo kept his light saber pointed directly at Palpatine and didn't waver. He refused to speak anymore with him about Rey or her arrival. He just knew she was on her way and was close! He had hope, for the first time in months since he'd offered her his hand on the Supremacy, that perhaps she might truly care about him? 

Chapter Text

Chapter 2:  Rey Arrives On Exegol

Kylo kept his light saber pointed directly at Palpatine as he continued speaking, "Snoke trained you well in the Dark Side of the Force."

Kylo replied with confidence, "I killed Snoke," he paused, his eyes glaring directly into Palpatine's, "Snoke did NOT teach me everything I know about the Dark Side of the Force."

Palpatine was intrigued and replied, "You are no match for me. The Dark Side of the Force is known to lead to things some consider unnatural," he cackled, "you think you are powerful with the Dark Side? I could give you so much more."

"Your continued speech will not spare you from the blade of my saber," Kylo replied, practically ignoring Palpatine's remarks and then he continued, "I promise you. Your time has long since ended. I rule this galaxy now and I will not share my power or authority with you."

Palpatine closed his eyes for a moment and then when he opened them he answered, "There IS a Jedi on the way here. I sense it in the Force. I offered you a chance to become what your grand father Vader could not, yet you still oppose me? You are willing to summon a Jedi here? You ally yourself with Light Siders? I can sense some of your thoughts. You actually have compassion for this Jedi."

"I have things in mind for this galaxy that you know nothing of. The Force has given me visions, a mandate to follow and I intend to follow it. I am what I am due to my grand father's power. As I stated, you have underestimated my abilities with the Dark Side. I need nothing from you," Kylo replied, ignoring Palpatine's statements about Rey.

Kylo kept his crackling red light saber directly in front of Palpatine and then closed his eyes for a moment. He was concentrating in the Force deeply. He managed to guard his mind and emotions from Palpatine so that he could no longer read any of them. Once Kylo opened his eyes, he then extended his other hand toward Palpatine and began to use the Force to stop him from speaking. Kylo had the ability not only to Force freeze others, put them into Force sleep, but he also developed the ability to mute someone from speaking, even without a Force choke. As Kylo held his saber in his right hand, he continued to use his left hand to 'mute' Palpatine from continuing to cackle on and speak to him. 

"I grow tired of listening to you," Kylo said angrily, his hand still extended as he kept Palpatine quiet, "you have nothing I want. I am fully committed to the Dark Side and you have no idea what I am capable of."

As soon as Kylo said this, he instantly sensed Rey's presence on Exegol! He still continued to use the Force to protect his thoughts from Palpatine and still held him 'mute' for a few more seconds even though he was focused on Rey now more than ever since she'd arrived on the planet's surface. Palpatine was impressed with Kylo's abilities. He literally couldn't speak. Kylo held him like this for a few more moments.

Palpatine was trying to push back against Kylo's Force influence over him, yet he couldn't. As powerful as Palpatine was, he was not able to get Kylo to loosen his grip on his ability to speak. Kylo continued to guard his thoughts about Rey from Palpatine. He knew she was on her way to him. This would be the first time he'd seen her since they parted ways in Snoke's throne room. The Force had connected them through their Bond many times over this past year, but Kylo wanted to see Rey in person, not just through the Force.

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Rey jumped out of her X-wing and pulled her light saber from off of her belt. She hadn't seen Kylo in person for nearly a year, however, she was drawn here by the Force. She was still questioning WHY the Force Bonded them to begin with, and didn't think she'd race like this to his side once more, but here she was, here on Exegol doing exactly that. 

Rey resolutely kept walking quickly into the Sith Temple. She could sense Kylo's Force signature as well. She kept her saber out in front of her as she entered the temple. She stopped for a moment, looking around to see if she could get her bearings or sense Kylo's presence in the temple more strongly. However, while she was concentrating, a Sith loyalist stepped out of hiding from a corridor and started firing a blaster at her. Rey instinctively raised her saber, parrying it back and forth quickly. She easily deflected the blaster bolts with ease. She then raised her hand and used the Force and took the Sith loyalist's weapon right out of his hand. His blaster went flying in to her hand and then she extended her hand, used the Force and threw him up against one of the huge stone walls. The Sith loyalist was now unconscious on the floor.

She continued on her way, determined to find where Kylo was. Though she had rejected Kylo's hand, and his offer to rule with him, she knew the Force Bonded them for a reason and somehow she felt from the Force that she HAD to be here with him and help him deal with this situation.  Rey came across the same stone elevator that Kylo had taken just an hour or so earlier and she rode it to the bottom level as well. The lightening was flashing everywhere and the air was musky and chilly. It felt like death here and she couldn't wait to leave. She had no idea how she and Kylo would relate to one another after this ordeal was through, but she would worry about that later when the time came.

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Kylo kept Palpatine locked in place, unable to speak. He sensed Rey's presence stronger than ever. Within a couple of minutes, Rey entered the room where Kylo and Palpatine were! Kylo was still able to maintain his control over Palpatine while he looked over his shoulder to see Rey rounding the corner! His heart swelled with joy and anticipation at the sight of her and Palpatine noticed Kylo's joy at seeing Rey and he took full advantage of this. Kylo had become momentarily distracted when Rey entered the room and Palpatine managed to raise his left hand enough and extend it toward Kylo. He was going to put Kylo in a Force choke hold and disarm him, however, before he could do so, Rey caught sight of what Palpatine was trying to do.

She ran forward with her saber lit and extended her hand. She briefly glanced at Kylo as she ran up beside him and then looked at Palpatine and said, "No you don't!" and used the Force to freeze his hand in place before he could make a move on Kylo.

Kylo knew he became distracted when he saw Rey, but he was happy to see her, happier than he could ever put into words. How he'd longed to see her in person, but certainly not in these circumstances!

"Rey," Kylo said, his voice was soft and compassionate. Palpatine took notice of Kylo's calmed and soothed demeanor as soon as he laid eyes on Rey. 

"Kylo," Rey looked at him with a nod, "I don't know why I'm here. All I know is that I was on my home base when the Force gave me a vision of you standing here in this Sith Temple on Exegol. I felt drawn by the Force to be here."

"I'm glad you're here," Kylo replied, his eyes riveted on Rey. She looked absolutely beautiful to him. It was as if the way he was looking at her it was like Palpatine wasn't even in the room.

Just as he said this, two more Sith loyalists entered the room and some Praetorian Guards. They were there to try to free Palpatine from Kylo's Force hold. Rey pivoted instantly on her feet and caught sight of the loyalists and the guards enter the room. 

"Continue to hold Palpatine in place," Rey began speaking to Kylo, "I will handle these guards."

"Reminds me of Snoke's throne room," Kylo remarked while keeping his saber and hand extended toward Palpatine.

Palaptine would not ever admit this willingly to Kylo, but he was impressed with Kylo's abilities, especially since it seemed Kylo was able to keep him motionless and speechless with the Force.

Kylo was already in love with Rey, but just seeing her in combat made his heart beat faster. One thing was for sure: though he used the Dark Side of the Force, he fell in love with this Jedi and wasn't afraid to admit it to himself or her. He only hoped she'd eventually accept his hand one day and his offer to rule beside him.

Kylo continued to hold Palpatine in place while Rey fought off the guards.

Rey instantly went into combat mode with the Praetorian guards. It had been a year since she and Kylo fought side by side, and she had time to train for the past several months, and her own Force abilities had improved. Kylo noticed this as well as she fought against them.

While Rey was battling the guards, Palpatine tried to take advantage of using the Force while Kylo was momentarily distracted yet again. Kylo noticed that his concentration was slipping due to his gaze on Rey. He quickly turned back around and glared at Palpatine once more, but before he could regain his concentration, Palpatine managed to unleash Force lightening in Kylo's direction. Kylo managed to block the Force lightening with his saber and then became even more enraged. He closed his eyes and concentrated deeply in the Force, channeling all the power of the Dark Side that he could, and unleashed Force lightening himself against Palpatine.

Rey managed to single handedly disable or kill the two Sith loyalists and the Praetorian guards. After she'd done so, she turned and witnessed Kylo unleashing Force lightening onto Palpatine. Kylo's jaw was tight, his eyes glaring at Palpatine. He was not going to release Palpatine until he'd killed him. 

"I came here today to kill you," Kylo grunted through his clenched teeth, "I rule this galaxy. Your time is over!"

Palpatine writhed helplessly before Kylo's power. Palpatine truly HAD underestimated Kylo's power and abilities. Palpatine used to be the most powerful Force user, alongside Vader, however, he'd just discovered that Vader's grand son was more powerful than he'd imagined, wielding his grand father's abilities with ease. Rey walked up beside Kylo as he was still unleashing Force lightening. She watched as Palpatine screamed and yelled for mercy. Kylo gave NO mercy. Within a couple of minutes, Palpatine lay limp in the machine that held him. 

Kylo, noticing Palpatine was likely dead, lowered his hand and stopped unleashing Force lightening, however, he kept his saber lit and out in front of him just as a precaution. He was nearly breathless. 

"I think he's dead, Kylo," Rey said as she watched the situation unfold, "you can release him."

Kylo was breathing heavily due to his raw emotion, anger and passion in the Force. He nodded to Rey silently for a few seconds and then replied, "I'm glad you came. I never expected to see you here, or anywhere near me, but I'm glad you're here, Rey," he paused and looked over at Palpatine and said, "I was not about to let this man rise to power again. His time, and the time of the Sith, are over. I will not allow anyone to usurp my rule or rule beside me."

Rey looked over at Palpatine's dead body and then up at Kylo as she hitched her light saber back to her belt and said, "I can see that," she paused then continued, "the Force drew me here after giving me a vision of you. I don't know why, but I had this strong urge to come here to help you."

Kylo finally turned off his light saber and hitched it back to his side and replied, "I know why the Force wanted you here."

"You do? Please enlighten me," Rey said rather sarcastically. 

Kylo turned to face her, and as he did, Rey was nearly struck breathless with the way his hair framed his face, the way those dark brown eyes looked deeply into hers and the way his voice sounded when he spoke her name, but she was not willing to let those breathless emotions show to Kylo right now. Kylo could sense them anyway. He knew Rey had wanted to take his hand back in Snoke's throne room but had declined.

"Rey," Kylo's smooth voice filled the room, "the Force Bonded you and I. We are a Dyad. You were drawn here by the Force because we are two that are one," he paused and stepped closer to her, nearly standing right in front of her and continued, "when I said that I would not share my power or throne with anyone else, that was not entirely true. I will share it with you. My offer still stands. I want you to rule with me."

Rey looked at Kylo's outstretched hand and then saw that same expression in his eyes the FIRST time he'd asked her to take his hand. She stood there motionless for a few seconds, not sure what to say.

Kylo continued, "Rey, join me? I offer you not only equal authority as you rule with me, but I also offer my hand and my heart. I offered you my hand a year ago. I could tell you wanted to take it, why didn't you?"

Rey swallowed hard and then looked him directly in the eyes and finally spoke, "I did want to take your hand. I left that day due to fear and due to not knowing if things would work between a Dark Sider and a Light Sider. I did what I felt was necessary that day."

"So, you admit you did want to take my hand?" Kylo paused and moved closer, "Rey, you have nothing to fear. You are not my enemy and I don't want you to consider me your enemy. If you join me, you can help me bring balance to the Force and to galactic government. You will rule equally beside me. The only person I want to share my rule and throne with is you and that will not change," he paused again, his hand was still stretched out toward her, "the Force drew you here today for a reason. I was hoping that reason would become obvious to you? Will you come back with me to my ship today? I can't stay here on Exegol long. I have other urgent matters to attend to. The Mandalore system is proving to be a problem for myself and the First Order and I must get back to my ship so that I can deal with the Mandalorians."

"The Mandalorians? I haven't heard anything from them. What kind of threat are they?" she asked.

"That is classified information," Kylo began, "however, if you would join me, return to the Finalizer with me, I will give you all the classified information you want, not only about my situation with Mandalore, but also all the information you want to know about First Order politics and our secrets," he paused and wanted to get back to his main reason for asking her to join him and continued, "however, what matters most to me is that you know I'm offering my hand to you because I want you by my side and in my life. If you ever change your mind and take my hand, please know my offer is not a platonic one."

Rey's eyebrows rose in curiosity, "So, you're asking me to join you, not only to rule beside you, but to be your....," she stopped, "your, uh... your lover?"

Kylo nodded silently for a few seconds then replied, "Yes. That is what I'm offering. You will still be a Jedi, still use the Light Side. I'm not asking you to change who you are. I need to obey the Force's will to bring balance and, if you join me, that is what would happen. I'm offering equal authority alongside me, only you'd bring your influence to the First Order as the Force wills," he paused again, "and yes, I'm asking if you join me if you'd be my lover. I know this seems forward of me, but I speak my mind, Rey."

"Yes, I've noticed," Rey said trying to hide the flush that was appearing over her face and then she continued, "I have responsibilities to the Resistance, to my friends. How do I join you and not betray them?"

"First of all," Kylo continued, "do you feel anything for me? Anything at all?"

Rey dipped her head for a few seconds looking at the stone cold floor, then she raised her eyes to meet his and replied, "If I told you I felt nothing for you I'd be lying. Like I said, I did want to take your hand, but your use of the Dark Side made me leave that day."

"You have nothing to fear from me or the Dark Side of the Force, Rey. Let me show you who I am, what I'm capable of and that the Dark Side is just as much a part of the living Force as the Light Side is?" he asked, his hand still extended out to her, his eyes pleading.

Rey looked down at Kylo's hand again and then she quietly started to lift her hand toward his. When Kylo saw her reaching for his hand, his heart felt so overwhelmed with joy, so full. He waited with baited breath to feel her hand in his own. Rey finally reached back, placed her hand in Kylo's hand and replied, "Very well. I will go back with you. I'm willing to see where this goes."

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: New Love and a First Kiss

Rey slowly reached out her hand toward Kylo's hand, and as she did, Kylo's pulse rose and he waited with baited breath to feel her hand in his own.  As soon as Rey's hand touched his, he slowly and gently wrapped his fingers around her hand. Rey noticed the soft and warm feel of his leather glove wrapping around her hand. Her own pulse rose. What now? She was filled with mixed emotions. What happens next?

Kylo kept hold of Rey's hand, his eyes were soft and deeply penetrating and studying her own expression and hazel eyes. He finally broke the silence between them, trying to ease the tension and looked around, "You took my hand," he remarked softly, "I know this Sith Temple is hardly a romantic setting, but may I kiss you? I'm so overwhelmed that you put your hand in mine and are accepting my offer. You have no idea how this has affected me, Rey."

Rey was stunned by the absolute joyful look in Kylo's eyes and expression. She never knew he could smile or show anything but rigid harshness with all those he dealt with, so seeing him like this, nearly smiling, his eyes showing emotions of gratitude and calm, gave her pause to realize she truly didn't know everything about him or what was truly hidden in his heart. Was he capable of love? Was he capable of tenderness? She was determined to find out, however, part of her was nervous. She'd never been in an intimate relationship with anyone before. She'd had her first kiss while on Jakku, but this was entirely different. She wondered if Kylo truly knew how inexperienced she was with this, but she figured he already knew due to their age difference.

Rey swallowed hard, took a deep breath and replied, "A kiss? I didn't expect.... well, so soon and....," she stopped.

Kylo nodded, "Alright, I'll kiss the back of your hand then. I understand. I'm sorry if I'm moving too quickly, I'm just overjoyed you just took my hand, Rey," he paused and lifted Rey's hand to his lips. He kissed the back of her hand, and as he did, his eyes NEVER left hers! Rey's heart raced. The WAY he was looking at her right now was taking her breath away. It was like this man standing before her had transformed from the harsh warrior she'd seen moments before to this tender lover in no time at all.

After Kylo kissed her hand, he remarked, "I've never been so close to you. I have a good look at your eye color now. Such a beautiful hazel," he remarked as he studied her again. He lifted his hand and brushed a piece of her hair out of her eyes and then ran his gloved hand along the side of her cheek and said, "You're a beautiful woman, Rey. Thank you for coming with me. My life won't be so lonely now. As I said, you have no idea what this means to me."

Rey's eyes never left his as she spoke to her. She wasn't sure what to say but she realized she had to eventually say something. She replied, "Kylo, I'm young. I'm not a mature woman, hardly beautiful."

Kylo shook his head in disbelief and said, "Not beautiful? You are to me. From the first time I met you on Takodana, I was taken aback by you. I was fascinated with you from the beginning and now I'm falling in love with you. Yes, you are a woman to me. I know there is an age difference between us, but I'd hardly ask you to join me or be my lover if I felt you were underage. You are at least nineteen, right?"

Rey nodded, "Yes, I'm nineteen. And you are?"

Kylo chuckled and asked playfully, "Do I have to answer that?"

"Not fair. If you know my age, I have a right to know yours, especially since I just agreed to join you and see where this relationship goes," she teased back.

The entire time they were both talking so awkwardly, the lightening kept flashing all around them. Kylo would periodically glance around the temple just to be sure they were alone. He looked back over at Rey and replied, "Alright. That's fair. I'm thirty."

Rey smiled, "Fine. I know now," she paused, "and no, I'm not underage. I knew there was an age difference, but wasn't aware you are thirty. You look younger than that to me."

Kylo smiled again, "Thanks. I often feel I look my age," he paused and then said, "Rey, if we're going to continue talking and getting to know one another even better, let's get out of here. This place reminds me of death," he paused yet again and held out his hand to Rey once more and said, "Come with me. You can fly your X-Wing back behind my TIE Whisper and I'll lead you to my flag ship, and.....," he hesitated, "call me 'Ben'. Kylo is too formal for us now. You are the only one I want to hear my birth name from."

Again, Rey's heart rate picked up. Was this the same man that used to be her enemy? The same man she'd seen killing Palpatine just a while ago? She was just beginning to sense there was so much more to Kylo than she'd realized and yet she'd only taken his hand just moments before and was already seeing this. She placed her hand in his again and then he began to walk with her toward the stone elevator so they could get out of the temple, however, once they reached the top level of the temple and exited it, Rey watched as Kylo pulled out his mobile COMM. She said nothing, but listened intently as he began to give orders to his flag ship.

"General Pryde here, Surpeme Leader."

"General," Kylo began, "I want two star destroyers dispatched to Exegol immediately. Once these destroyers are in orbit, they are to open fire and destroy the Sith temple. I want nothing of it to remain standing," he ordered, "also, I'm bringing someone back with me to the Finalizer. This person will be following me in her X-wing. When you see my Whisper on sensors, you will see an X-wing as well. Under NO circumstances are you to open fire on that X-wing, understood? This person is with me and will not be harmed once she boards the Finalizer with me. Send my orders out to all of the troops in the hangar bay at once."

"Yes, Supreme Leader," General Pryde hesitated and then asked, "may I ask who this guest is, Sir?"

"You will find out once I land on the Finalizer, for now, follow my orders," Kylo replied firmly.

"Yes, Supreme Leader, right away," he paused, "I take it that Emperor Palpatine is dead, Sir?"

"You assume correctly," Kylo replied, "I ended him with the help of the woman I'm bringing on board the ship with me today."

Kylo closed the COMM and put it back into his pocket and his eyes were so soft as he gazed at Rey. Rey was studying him just as closely as he was studying her. They were both feeling mesmerized by the fact that they had agreed to 'be together' and the newness of it all was overwhelming for them both, but Rey admitted to herself privately that she was suddenly looking forward to what might come next in this new adventure. She knew she had to contact the Resistance to let them know she was alive and alright, but that might have to come tomorrow. She had enough to deal with today for the time being.

Rey saw Kylo's TIE Whisper not far from where she'd landed her X-Wing. As they both held hands and walked toward their ships, Kylo stopped again, turned to look at Rey and then did something that she didn't expect. She watched him get down on one knee and ask her again for a kiss.

"Rey, if I'm still being too forward, or pushing too quickly, I'll back off, but may I please share a kiss with you before we get into our ships to fly back to the Finalizer?"

Rey tried so hard to keep a smile from her face, but she couldn't. She dipped her head with a flush coming over her cheeks and then looked at him again and replied, "Alright. A kiss can't hurt. I'd like that."

Kylo stood to his feet, took both of her hands into his gloved hands and then gazed down at her. He put his right hand under her chin as he slowly moved closer to her, his lips hovering just above hers. Just before Rey felt his lips meet hers, he said softly, "This is just the beginning. I want to show you how much you mean to me, Rey."

The WAY he said her name! The soothing, deep sound of his voice was taking her breath away. Kylo noticed that Rey was a little nervous, but that her eyes became heavily lidded as he leaned down and pressed his lips to hers. 

As soon as Kylo's lips touched hers, her pulse shot up way too quickly. His lips were warm and soft. She felt his grip loosen on her hands as he placed his hands onto her waist now and gently nudged her closer. Rey's hands ran up Kylo's arms and she didn't exactly pull away from their kiss too quickly either. She let her hands rest on his arms as their kiss lingered. Kylo didn't want this kiss to end. Their kiss started out as soft and gentle, but soon turned into a more passionate one. Rey was letting herself go with the moment. Why did she find this so glorious? She had no idea it could be like this with her former enemy. She and Kylo eventually pulled apart, and when they did, she could see his breathing had become more labored. He was clearly just as mesmerized by this as she was.

"Force," Kylo sighed. 

The romantic and sexual tension between them was sudden and so quick. 

"When we kissed," Kylo began as he stroked her cheek with his hand again, "It's as if all of this desire and tension I have felt for you is slightly relieved now. I have wanted to feel you in my arms for so long now."

"The kiss was nice, I admit it," she said as her hands remained on his arms and his hands remained on her waist. 

Kylo leaned down once more, pressed his lips to hers, not wanting this moment to end. This time, his arms wrapped entirely around her and Rey found herself pressed up against his chest more snug than before, but she didn't mind. 

Exegol was cold, getting windy and now it was starting to feel damp. Kylo pulled back from their kiss, looked her in the eyes and said, "You have just made my heart full and complete," he paused and kept gazing down at her and then continued, "come home with me?"

Rey's eyes actually watered for a moment and she replied softly, "Wow, I never expected," she paused, not sure how to finish her sentence and then she said, "I never knew a kiss could mean so much," she paused again, "yes, I'll go home with you."

"The Finalizer will be your new home and I will make sure you feel comfortable. I want to spend every day I have showing you how much you mean to me and how much it means that you took my hand," he said as he held onto her hand and walked her to her X-wing and then said, "go ahead and start your engines. I'll be ready to lift off with you in a couple moments."

Rey, for the first time, ran her hand up the side of Kylo's face. She let her fingers linger in his hair for a moment and then she said, "Ben, I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm looking forward to seeing what comes of this. How much more we will learn about each other. I've suppressed my feelings for you for a long time now out of fear of your use of the Dark Side. Now I'm not too afraid to see where this goes."

Kylo smiled at her, gave her hand one more gentle squeeze and then he nodded to her as she watched him head to his TIE Whisper. Her heart was racing as she climbed the ladder and sat in the cockpit of her X-wing. Was all of this really happening? Rey started her engines, and as soon as she did, she noticed Kylo had started his engines as well and was now nodding to her through his cockpit window. 

The two of them took off, leaving Exegol behind. Rey's ship followed Kylo's Whisper as they both jumped to light speed and were now headed to the Finalizer. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Rey Returns With Kylo To the Finalizer (Part 2)

General Pryde was a little taken aback by Kylo's announcement that a Jedi from the Resistance had not only joined him, but would soon be called their 'Empress'.  He dared not argue with Kylo or challenge him. He merely nodded to Kylo and obeyed Kylo's orders. 

Kylo looked around the hangar bay just to be sure that all of his troops were obeying his orders and that none of them were attempting to show hostility toward Rey. Rey was cautious as she exited her X-Wing. Kylo walked over to greet her, and as he did, he extended his arm to her, "Welcome to the Finalizer. I'll escort you to your quarters. My General here tells me that everything is ready for you."

Rey hestitated for a moment as she looked around anxiously at all of the troops lining the hangar bay, but then slowly ran her arm through Kylo's arm. She looked up at him and said, "They all are probably wishing they could open fire on me," she commented as she kept looking around in all directions.

"They won't harm you. They are under my orders not to," Kylo paused as he felt Rey put her arm through his and then he continued, "come with me. Everything will be alright," he reassured her.

As Rey began to walk arm-in-arm with Kylo through the hangar bay she kept surveying every inch of her surroundings. She still didn't entirely trust the situation. She was also wondering how in Force's name she'd explain all of this to Leia and her friends in the Resistance. This was also heavily on her mind. As Kylo led them through the hangar bay, he suddenly sensed a disturbance in the Force. One of the storm troopers was going to reach for his blaster, however, Kylo sensed it before the trooper could even reach for his blaster. Kylo stopped right in front of the trooper and raised his hand, used the Force and drew the trooper's blaster right out of his hand. Once the trooper's blaster came flying into Kylo's hand Kylo spoke to him.

"One more attempt like this and your life will be required of you! I should kill you right now where you stand," he said firmly.

Suddenly, a hush fell over the entire hangar bay and great fear gripped all there. General Pryde was amazed that Kylo could not only sense this, but by the power of the Force he was able to ascertain the trooper's motives to shoot long before he even reached for his blaster. Kylo, as well as Rey, could use the Force, not only to sense upcoming events, but also to anticipate someone's next move even before they made that move. 

The trooper was shaking with fear before Kylo, knowing full well that Kylo could end his life even without laying a hand on him, "Supreme Leader, how......"

Kylo glared directly into he eyes of his trooper and replied, "I anticipated your actions before you reached for your blaster. What were my orders, corporal?"

The trooper lowered his head and replied, "Not to take hostile actions against the Jedi, Sir."

"Why did you almost disobey those orders?" Kylo asked.

The trooper remained silent and then Kylo turned to General Pryde, who was standing nearby, "Take this trooper to a detention cell. He is to spend the next week there before I decide whether he is to return to duty," he paused and looked around at all of the rows of troopers and spoke loudly so everyone could hear him and then he continued, "If any one of you attempts this again, I won't show mercy. I will end your life on the spot. This Jedi is NOT to be harmed. What part of my orders did you NOT understand?"

A hush was still hanging over the entire hangar bay as Kylo continued walking with Rey arm-in-arm until they left and got to the nearest turbo lift. Once they were inside the turbo lift, Rey realized that Kylo didn't tolerate disobedience of any kind from subordinates.

"Wow," she began as the turbo lift door slid shut behind them, "you had everyone in great fear back there. I could have handled the situation, but thanks."

Kylo took her by both of her hands so gently as he gazed down into her hazel eyes and replied, "I know you, Rey. I know you could have handled yourself perfectly well. I know how powerful you are with the Force and what you're capable of, but I wanted to show you that I was serious about your safety. You're my equal in the Light and I know you could have sensed the same thing I did, however, You're on board my flag ship and I gave strict orders that they not harm you. I wanted to show you that you have my protection and that if anyone tries to harm you, I'd deal with them. That trooper should be grateful I didn't kill him where he stood."

"You would have killed that man back there?" Rey asked, "well, I'm glad you showed restraint."

"The only reason I showed restraint is because you are here with me," he paused, "I do not tolerate disobedience to my orders. Perhaps you are already having an influence on me with the Light Side?"

Rey nodded, "Hmm, perhaps. Anyway, thanks. I know enough about you to know you ordinarily wouldn't have shown mercy, but if my being here is already having an influence on you with the Light Side, then that's what you wanted, right?"

"You're right," Kylo paused as he kept hold of Rey's hands, then changed the subject and then hit the turbo lift button and brought the elevator to a complete stop. He continued, "Rey, I can't let another moment go by without asking you if I can bring you close to me and share another kiss with you before I walk you to your personal quarters?"

Rey nodded silently. She wanted another kiss with him just as badly as he wanted another with her! Kylo slowly ran his hands along her waist and then nudged her closer. Rey didn't show any hesitation. She ran her hands up his arms and then closed her eyes in anticipation of feeling Kylo's lips on hers once more. 

The only sound that could be heard inside that turbo lift was the sound of Kylo's and Rey's breaths becoming more labored as they held and kissed one another..... After they finally pulled apart Kylo spoke to Rey saying, "I think I'd better get this turbo lift moving again otherwise.....," he hesitated, not sure how to finish his sentence. 

"I know," Rey sighed with complete understanding at what he was 'hinting' at. 

They pulled apart, both of them had heavily lidded eyes and labored breathing as Kylo hit the turbo lift button once more and they got moving again. Rey spoke to Kylo and said, "I never knew kissing you and being this close to you could be so....., well....," she paused, "tender."

Kylo smiled slightly and the look in his eyes was nothing short of desirous and filled with longing as he replied softly, "This is the just the beginning. I have so much I want to show you and give you of myself. I'm thankful you're letting me."

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

The turbo lift came to a stop and, once the doors slid open, Kylo extended his arm to her once more. As they walked through the corridors, Rey was struck yet again at the sheer size and immensity of this ship. It would be so easy to get lost! Kylo finally led her to the quarters that had been prepared for her. As they stood outside Rey's new quarters Rey started a discussion with Kylo again about the Mandalorians. She was curious about what he'd said on Exegol about a 'Mandalorian uprising'.

"Thank you for these nice quarters, Ben. Perhaps one day I will reconsider moving in with you to your quarters, but since we just agreed to start this relationship, I'm not ready to move in with you yet," she paused and then changed the subject and asked, "so, can you tell me a bit more about this Mandalorian issue you say the First Order is dealing with? The Resistance hasn't intercepted any chatter from them that there'd be a problem."

"As far as you wanting some time and space before we move in together, I completely understand. Although, if you had moved in with me right now, I certainly wouldn't have said 'no'," he chuckled slightly while giving her a seductive glance, then he continued and answered her question replying, "as far as the Mandalorians go, the Resistance most likely would not have intercepted chatter about them. It's a First Order problem. I will go into more detail with you in a Supreme Council briefing I have scheduled for tomorrow, if you'd like to attend, but for now, just know that the Mandalorians are planning on an uprising against the First Order. They were no friend of the Empire and they don't like the First Order either. I have to put a stop to this uprising. As I said, I'll go into more detail with you soon."

Rey nodded, "Fair enough," she paused, "I don't know how well I'll sleep tonight. It's my first time being on board a star destroyer," she paused, "this ship of yours, the Finalizer, is huge. How much larger is it than the old Imperial cruisers?"

"It's almost triple the size of the size of the Imperial star destroyers that my grand father used to use," Kylo paused, "I will take you on a tour of the ship soon so you can learn your way around. Also, if you can't sleep tonight due to anxiety being here, contact me. Either use the Force and open our Bond and speak with me or use your COMM. I'm only a few yards down this corridor from you. I made sure that your quarters weren't far from my own," he winked at her with a small smile.

"Alright, thanks," she smiled, not able to take her eyes off of his. The romantic tension between them was so thick it could be cut with a knife!  

"Well, like I said, if you need anything, let me know. Your quarters have extra food, drinks, clothing and data pads," he stopped for a moment, "may I have a kiss good night then?"

Rey's face flushed again as she nodded and said, "Yes, I'd like that."

Rey wrapped her arms around Kylo this time more tightly rather than just lightly placing her hands on his arms. She nudged herself closer to him, felt his chest against her and her arms were completely enveloping him. Just the feel of his large, warm body up against hers sent her pulse rising. Kylo did the same, holding her close, his arms holding her up against himself as he pressed his lips to hers.

Their kiss was so tender, so compassionate, yet at the same time filled with such passion and longing desire. When they pulled apart Kylo said, "I hope you can sleep tonight. I will place a guard outside your door. I can also sense your Force signature and will know if you need anything. Either open our Bond or use the COMM and I'd be right back over here," he paused, "and now that you are Empress, I'm inviting you to come to the Supreme Council meeting tomorrow, if you feel comfortable enough, and you will hear our top secret information about our problems with the Mandalorians and other top secret information about our governance of the galaxy. Nothing will be kept from you now, Rey."

Rey's eyes were heavily lidded after their passionate kiss. She simply nodded, feeling slightly 'swept off her feet' as she replied, "Alright, yes. I'd like to attend the meeting. I have so much to learn about First Order politics and about....," she paused, "and about YOU."

Kylo raised Rey's right hand, kissed the back of her hand and said, "We're just getting started. I'm' so in love with you, Rey, and can't wait to take each day of my life to show you how much. Remember, if you need anything, I'm only several yards down this corridor," he pointed and then turned back to look at her and said, "see you in the morning for the meeting?"

Rey nodded, "Yes, see you tomorrow morning."

Rey locked eyes with him as he was gazing at her tenderly for a few more seconds. Then he turned and started walking away from her down the corridor. As he walked away from her, his dark thick hair moved slightly around his face, his cape billowed behind him and all she could think about as she looked at his huge frame from behind was, 'how did I not notice how incredibly attractive he was before?'

Kylo disappeared out of sight, and as soon as he did, a special forces trooper came to stand guard outside her door. She nodded to the guard and then stepped into her new quarters. After the door slid shut behind her, she was absolutely amazed at the luxurious living conditions that she was looking at! She found the Fresher, took a shower, changed into some sleep clothes and sat on a lounge that was overlooking the most beautiful nebula and star constellations. As she sat there looking out her window, not able to sleep just yet, all she could think about was Kylo, their shared kisses that day and how powerfully they had fought side by side together earlier on Exegol, but her main focus was on this newfound romance with her former enemy. It took her breath away just thinking about it.

As she sat on the lounge, the Force gave her a vision of she and Kylo's upcoming intimacy! She sat amazed as this vision played out from the Force right in her mind. What she saw was passionate, intimate and so full of desirous love. The Force gave her visions of she and Kylo consummating their love. Though she was not ready for this, the Force was making it clear to her that they would eventually make love and spend their lives together. As Rey sat looking at these visions, her lips parted in awe, wonder and anticipation and a slight blush came over her face. It was undeniable to her, it was only a matter of time before neither one of them could stay apart intimately.

The Force gave Rey images of she and Kylo in intimate situations and it took her breath away.

She realized this was just a 'vision' of the Force for she and Kylo's future, but just seeing these premonitions from the Force made her pulse rise and her face flush all shades of red! She finally went to bed and, right before she drifted off to sleep for the night, she thought about tomorrow's Supreme Council meeting regarding the Mandalorian problem. She hoped she could glean some new information about First Order politics tomorrow, along with possibly influencing the First Order in their decisions regarding the Mandalorians. She'd heard of the Mandalorians before, but didn't know much more about them. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 4:

Rey watched Kylo's TIE Whisper lift off the ground and she quickly followed in her X-Wing and thought to herself, "How am I going to explain this to Leia and my friends?" She felt a mixture of anticipation at the new romance that she and Kylo had agreed to, yet at the same time she felt a responsibility to her friends and to Leia. She wasn't quite sure how she'd go about handling all of this, but she was willing to join Kylo this time, unlike a year earlier, and see where all of this would lead. She wondered if she truly could make a difference in galactic politics.

As she followed Kylo's Whisper up into the atmosphere of Exegol, she happened to notice the two star destroyers that Kylo had ordered into orbit. Within seconds, Rey witnessed the firepower of both of these star destroyers firing down onto the surface of Exegol and demollishing the Sith Temple just as Kylo had ordered. As soon as she witnessed this, she noticed the COMM on her console had activated. She assumed it was the Resistance checking in on her, but no, it was Kylo contacting her.

She answered her COMM, "Yes? This is Rey."

"Rey," she heard Kylo's voice, "are you witnessing the destruction of that Sith Temple? Palpatine is finally gone and his temple along with him. I will not allow the Sith to rise to power ever again."

"Yes, I'm watching your destroyers bomb the temple now as we speak," she paused, "however, aren't Sith Dark Siders like you? I have so many questions. Why would you be against Sith? I thought all Dark Siders were Sith."

"That is a misunderstanding," Kylo replied, "I am not a Sith. I do not adhere to their codes or ideals. I use the Dark Side, yes, but have never identified as a Sith. Remember back in Snoke's throne room I told you that the Sith had to end?"

"Yes," she replied, eagerly awaiting his response.

"Well, I'm tired of the 'back and forth' politics in this galaxy that for generations were never successful. I've done my homework on the galactic Senate and Republic, the rise and fall endlessly of the Sith and the Jedi. It's time for something new. I wanted you to join me so that both sides of the Force will rule, not just the Dark or the Light, but both."

Rey was finally beginning to understand and she replied, "I see. I think that makes sense. I ran away from you a few months ago not completely understanding all of what you were proposing."

There was COMM silence for a few seconds and then Kylo replied, "I know. I understand you were scared of the Dark Side and were worried about joining me, despite your feelings for me. I understand Rey, however, I'm so grateful you're allowing me the chance to explain myself further to you and that you are willing to get closer to me, getting to know me and my true intentions for the galaxy."

As soon as Kylo said this, he continued, "Alright, I'm about to jump to light speed. You're with me, right? You won't leave me again and head back to the Resistance?" he asked with a worried tone in his voice which moved Rey's heart.

Rey's heart skipped a beat and she also felt a bit of melancholy, "No, I promise I won't run the other way. I'll follow you to your flag ship," she paused, "that day I left you on the Supremacy, I thought I was making the right decision, but I now realize I didn't stay long enough to hear you out and actually see your heart in all of this. I'm sorry, Ben."

By now, they were both at light speed, racing back toward the Finalizer. Rey was touched that Kylo was worried she might turn and run back to the Resistance. She never realized just how much her presence in his life meant to him until NOW. To Kylo, having Rey with him made him feel complete. 

Kylo replied, "It's alright, Rey. I truly do understand why you left, it was painful though. Please don't leave again?"

Rey dipped her head while she was working the controls of the X-Wing and then looked up out of the window again, clearly seeing Kylo's Whisper at light speed in front of her and she replied, "I won't, Ben. You have my word."

Kylo smiled to himself as he worked his own controls and replied, "Rey?"

"Yes, Ben?"

"I have to ask you something before we arrive at the Finalizer," he said.

"Alright, go ahead."

"Would you like your own quarters once we arrive at my ship? I know we agreed to a romantic relationship, but I don't expect you to share my quarters with me yet. Only when you're ready. Would  you like some luxury quarters of your own once we arrive? I can contact my Generals and have everything prepared for you so that when we land you're all set?"

Rey thought about it for a moment and then replied, "I think I will take my own quarters for now. You and I have just begun our relationship. I'd like to take things one day at a time, if you don't mind? So, yes, I'll take my own quarters for now."

"Rey?"

"Yes?"

"I really enjoyed kissing you and holding you in my arms," Kylo said with a soft and seductive tone in his voice. His deep, soothing voice always permeated deeply within her soul!

She flushed a bit at his remark and replied, "I enjoyed our kiss too. I never imagined I'd be kissing a former enemy," she paused, "I did enjoy it, Ben."

Kylo's heart was overwhelmed at hearing her response. Was this really happening, he wondered? Had Rey truly accepted his offer and was coming back with him to his ship? Apparently so, and he'd never take it for granted!

"I look forward to another kiss with you and so much more," he replied, hoping Rey would pick up on his 'hint'.

Rey knew what he was hinting at. She'd never been with anyone sexually before, but she knew that eventually that subject would come up between them.

"Hmmm," she began as she worked her controls, "so much more, huh?"

"I'm hoping that one day we can consummate our love, Rey, yes," he replied directly, "sorry, I'm just very direct."

"If it's one thing I know about you is that you are indeed direct," she paused, "I don't know when we'll share more intimately with one another, but I know one day we will."

Kylo's pulse rose, "I will move at your pace, Rey. I won't push for more than where we are right now. I'm so in love with you that," he stopped himself, not wanting to come on too strong at first, but then said, "well, I won't push you for more until  you're ready."

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

Within a couple of hours, both Kylo and Rey had dropped out of light speed. As soon as they did, Rey finally caught an up-close 'visual' on the size of the Finalizer as they made their final approach. This ship was massive! It was the size of a floating city in space. Rey recalled Leia's description of old star destroyers' sizes during the time of the Empire and Kylo's flag ship appeared to be at least three times larger! 

As she followed Kylo's Whisper closer to her ship and they were headed to the hangar bay, her pulse rose again. She was about to board a star destroyer triple the size of an old Imperiial cruiser and she was admittedly nervous. What would she encounter there once she disembarked? She hoped that Kylo's troops would obey his orders not to open fire on her X-Wing.

As they neared the hangar bay, Kylo spoke with Rey over the COMM once more, "Rey, we are on approach, as you can see. I've already ordered my troops to stand down. No one will harm you. If anyone does try to harm you, I will end their life for trying."

"I trust you," Rey replied rather nervously, "I realize many of your officers or troops may not trust me. I'm hoping they fear you enough to leave me alone."

"Believe me," Kylo replied, "no one will harm you. I will deal with them severely if anyone tries. You have my word," he paused, "also, I've already contacted my two top generals about preparing your personal quarters. Once we land, I will escort you to your new quarters and make sure you have everything you need."

As soon as Kylo said this, the hangar bay shields lowered long enough to allow both Kylo's Whisper and Rey's X-Wing to enter the hangar bay of the Finalizer. Rey's heart was racing. What was going to happen? She landed her X-wing, and as she did, she noticed the myriads of storm troopers and even Kylo's Knights, along with some of his top officers waiting there to receive them. She was going to trust that Kylo would make sure no one would try and do her harm.

Kylo landed his Whisper, turned off his engine and opened his hatch, and as soon as he did, he was greeted by General Pryde. 

"Supreme Leader, I have followed your orders. The woman you brought back with you has quarters prepared and fully stocked with food, drink, clothing and other necessities you requested," he paused, "who is this woman?"

Kylo watched as Rey disembarked from her X-Wing, and as she did, he replied to General Pryde saying ,"this is the Jedi from the Resistance. She is now my ally. She has agreed to join me in ruling this galaxy. I will explain more at an upcoming Supreme Council meeting, which I expect you to schedule for tomorrow. She is also going to be your Empress. Eventually, you, and along with every soul in the First Order, will address her as 'Empress' and obey her as you would me."

General Pryde's eyebrows rose in shock and curiosity as he replied, "A Jedi, Supreme Leader? Our Empress? Here in the First Order?"

Kylo removed his mask, looked General Pryde directly in the eye and replied, "That is what I said, General."

"Yes, Supreme Leaader, as you wish," he replied, not wanting to anger Kylo or contradict his orders in any way!

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: Rey's First Night On Board The Finalizer: Sexual Tension is Rising

Rey found her bedroom, and as she lay in this plush, new luxurious bed, she was awestruck by the luxury of the quarters she was given. The bed was huge, lined with silk sheets and an ultra soft mattress. She had a full Fresher in her bedroom, along with a huge closet stocked full of clothing.  She also had a floor to ceiling window in which she could glance out and easily see all sorts of beautiful nebulae, stars and constellations. She propped herself up in bed with several feather pillows behind her as she sat thinking about today's events. How did all of these happen to her in just ONE day, she wondered? Just that morning she'd left Ajan Kloss after a routine training run, then had a vision from the Force of Kylo facing Palpatine alone, then she raced to Exegol to stand with him in combat, and now here she was on board his flag ship and had agreed to a romantic relationship with him?! 

As she sat on her bed gazing out at the nebulae and constellations, she also couldn't stop thinking about the Supreme Council meeting for the next day. She didn't know much about First Order politics except that the First Order is a dictatorship, and she certainly didn't know much about the planet Mandalore or it's citizens, or the threat that it was posing to Kylo's rule. She decided since she couldn't drift off to sleep right away to just pick up a data pad and start reading. Kylo made good on his promises to her. On these data pads were top secret information pertaining not only to First Order politics, troop maneuvers and fleet positions, but also top secret information on Mandalore and the problem it posed to the First Order. She decided since she couldn't sleep that she'd sit up in this nice comfortable bed and read over all of this information so she'd be better prepared for tomorrow's meeting. 

Rey was not sure how Kylo's top ranking officers would receive her at the meeting. Some of them knew her as the 'Scavenger from Jakku, and the Jedi from the Resistance' and she wondered if she'd even be welcomed into the meeting with civility. What Rey did not realize yet, however, was that Kylo would NOT allow any of his officers to treat her with contempt or disrespect. 

Rey's mind then drifted to the scene where Kylo was once again offering her his hand, this time on Exegol, and how he'd practically begged her not to leave him again. She was struck to the heart that he seemed so desperate to keep her in his life. She had no idea that she meant that much to him, but she DID.

'Please don't leave me again, Rey,' Kylo's words rang in her thoughts....... Rey's heart raced. She was not going to leave him, however, she was still wondering how in Force's name she'd explain her life's situation now to Leia and her friends in the Resistance? Now she was Empress of this galaxy? A Scavenger and Jedi one moment and now Empress? Apparently so!

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After Kylo had finished taking a shower, he was in his sleep clothes and was seated on a lounge reading over the briefing as well for the following days' Supreme Council meeting. Kylo himself has created the 'Supreme Council'. Snoke did not have such a council when he ruled, however, though Kylo was the final authority for every decision made in the galaxy, he thought it was wise to surround himself with high ranking intelligence officers and generals to offer council when making laws and decisions. So, the Supreme Council was relatively a new thing in the First Order created by Kylo just months before. So far, he was pleased with how the council was operating.

As Kylo sat reading over the data pads of information, in addition to the Mandalorian problem, he noticed that taxation of the Outer Rim was something he wanted to address in tomorrow's meeting as well. Certain star systems were feeling they were being taxed too highly. In addition to this, some Mid Rim trade routes were being plagued by pirates. So, in addition to dealing with Mandalore's potential uprising, he wanted to send representatives to the Outer Rim to discuss taxes and also he planned take the Finalizer to the Mid Rim in the midst of all of this to deal with reports of Piracy at trade routes. It was never a dull moment for him, but he welcomed all of this. He felt he was born to rule, and being Vader's Heir, he was passionate about fulfilling his role. He leaned back on his lounge, put his data pads down and looked out the window at the same stars Rey was looking at. He sighed deeply to himself in amazement, wonder and awe that Rey was actually here on board his ship of her own free choice! His heart was so full, so overwhelmed with joy. Very little had brought him true happiness in his thirty years, but having Rey here made him feel complete. Having her here seemed to give him new motivation to rule with a new kind of passion.

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When the following morning had arrived, Kylo realized he might have only had a couple hours of sleep. Just knowing Rey was on board kept him awake with anticipation at seeing her again. It was only 0500 in the morning and he finally decided to get out of bed, use the Fresher for his shower and then pulled a clean uniform out of his closet and get dressed. As he got dressed and hitched is light saber to his belt, he kept wondering if Rey got any sleep the night before. He didn't get nearly enough due to his excitement and anticipation of seeing Rey today. His mind was not only on the politics at hand that day, but also on he and Rey's newfound romantic relationship. How deeply he wanted to take her in his arms, carry her to his bedroom and consummate his love with her, but he determined within himself that he would not push her too quickly or beyond what she was ready for. So many times he'd envisioned making love with her, and perhaps, one day in the near future, they would?

After grabbing his mask from off of a table, his saber already hitched to his side, he left his quarters and headed straight for Rey's quarters to see if she was awake. He could sense her Force signature and that she may not be sleeping, so he made his way through the few short yards of the corridor and stood right outside of the door of her quarters. He pushed the button/chime of her door and hoped that he wasn't disturbing her, but he felt like was coming out of his skin, anxious to see her this morning!

Rey heard the chime of her door sound and she put a silk robe on to answer it, but before she did, she made sure to check to see who was standing outside her door. For all she knew, it was an officer or trooper, but when she used the console in her room to get a visual on who was here, she noticed it was Kylo and opened the door for him eagerly. As soon as the door slid open, Kylo saw her standing there with her hair out of her buns and cascading down around her shoulders. Her robe was a maroon color and it fit her perfectly. He was so used to seeing her fully dressed with her saber and blaster at her sides and her hair up in buns, so when he saw her standing there with her hair down in that silk bathrobe, it literally took his breath away.

Kylo's lips parted slightly and Rey could tell by the look in his eyes that he loved what he saw!  Rey smiled when she saw him, however, the blush that came over her face and cheeks and a slightly shy smile was something she could not hide from Kylo. Rey was struck with how truly beautiful a man he was. When she saw him as merely her enemy months before, she never paid close attention to the details of his dark brown eyes, his thick black hair as it hung perfectly framing his face, the way his firm, large body filled his uniform so perfectly and her heart raced at the sight of him.

Kylo spoke to her in that very deep, soothing, almost mesmerizing voice of his saying, "Good Morning, Rey. Care to join me for breakfast in my private dining hall? Afterward, we can attend the Supreme Council meeting together and then I'll give you a tour of the Finalizer?"

"Uh, yes....," she paused feeling a little shy in her bathrobe, "sorry, I'm not dressed yet. But, I'd love to have breakfast with you. Do you want to come in while I get dressed? It will only take me a few moments?" she replied as she motioned for him to come inside.

Kylo smiled at her and walked inside, "Thanks. Sorry for being here so early. I couldn't sleep very well last night just knowing you are here," he passed and took a seat on a lounge, "sure, I will wait."

Rey closed her door and replied, "I didn't exactly sleep well either. I kept thinking about yesterday's events and the fact that you and I are......," she paused.

Kylo finished her sentence and interjected, "You and I are now romantically involved?"

Rey smiled, dipped her head for a few seconds, then looked back up at him and continued, "yeah."

Kylo extended his gloved hand to her and asked, "May I have a kiss good morning before you get dressed. I promise I won't push for anything more."

Rey was struck with the fact that Kylo was trying his best to be the perfect and respectful 'gentleman' with all of this, but she could sense his feelings through the Force and she knew he was struggling to keep himself from taking her into his arms and wanting to make love to her, but it touched her that he was willing to move at HER pace and not push for anything. 

Rey took his hand with a smile. She loved the soft and warm feel of his leather glove in her hand. She sat down beside him on the lounge and then Kylo, still holding her hand, leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. His kiss was soft and tender, so gentle, yet so passionate at the same time. She closed her eyes and felt like she could melt into him at this moment.

The instant Rey felt Kylo's lips press against hers, her pulse rose and every feeling of desire surged through her this very second. Kylo felt the same, finding it extremely difficult not to take her in his arms and ask her if he could make love to her, but he restrained himself and didn't. After they pulled apart, both of their eyes were heavily lidded and filled with longing and desperate desire.

Rey breathed in deeply after their kiss and said, "That was so nice," she paused touching her lips with her finger for a moment and then continued, "your kiss is so soft, so tender, but I better get dressed so we can go eat breakfast and go to this meeting."

Kylo definitely looked slightly aroused, his own eyes heavily lidded with longing for her as he nodded and replied, "Yes. That's fine. I'll wait here," he paused, "the kiss, it was perfect, too perfect, as a matter of fact. I promised you I wouldn't push you for anything too quickly, but seeing you with your hair down like this in that robe, it does things to me."

Rey knew Kylo could see the red flush come over her as she replied, "I feel it too," she paused, "we will share more. I promise. I know it's difficult, but I promise, once we do make love, it will be worth the wait for both of us. I just need a little more time?"

Kylo nodded, "I understand, Rey. Go ahead and get dressed. I'll wait here and then escort you to breakfast and then the meeting."

The romantic and sexual tension between them was rising by the moment!

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: Supreme Council, Mandalore, Politics, and Romance!

Kylo was seated on a lounge in Rey's quarters as she came walking out of the Fresher fully dressed with her blaster and light saber hitched to her side as usual. He stood to his feet and smiled at her, holding out both of his gloved hands to her. Rey eagerly walked across the room, took both of his hands and looked up into his eyes.

As they held hands she smiled up at him and said, "I'm glad you haven't put on your mask yet. I wanted to see your face and eyes this morning," she paused and ran her hand over the side of his face, "you really do have deep brown eyes that are so attractive and I never got this close to you before to notice just how jet black your hair really is."

Kylo loved the feeling of Rey's hand stroking his cheek as she looked into his eyes and he replied, "Thanks, Rey. I guess I'm just so used to seeing myself and....," she stopped him.

"Just believe me. I'm noticing things about you now that I'm this close to you that I didn't pay attention to before. The way you fill that uniform, the way your thick, dark hair frames your face, the way your eyes are so deeply brown. You're very attractive to me."

That was not easy for Rey to say due to the fact that she'd not only considered Kylo her enemy in times past, but she'd never been romantically involved with anyone before and this was new for her to compliment a man.

Kylo closed his eyes for a few seconds while he enjoyed the warmth of Rey's hand on the side of his face. Her fingers lingered in his hair once again and he sighed, "Rey...., Force...., what you do to me," he paused and then opened his eyes, "if we don't leave your quarters right now, I am tempted to pick you up in my arms and....," he stopped himself.

"How about you just say, 'thanks?'" she teased him with a pat on his arm.

Kylo chuckled ever-so-slightly and then nodded, "Alright, Thank you. I appreciate it. I don't think I'm anything unusual to look at."

Rey chuckled back, "Oh, you're attractive, believe me. When we were enemies, I didn't notice as much as I do now, but I can't take my eyes off of you."

"Rey?"

"Yes?"

"If you keep saying these things to me I'm going to find it difficult not to take you in my arms and then ask you to make love with me," he replied.

"You told me you have a Supreme Council meeting planned right now. Your officers are waiting. We'd better go, huh? I want you too, but it has to wait," she smiled at him warmly and ran her hand back down to his gloved hand and held onto it saying, "Come on. We'll talk alone later?"

Kylo leaned down and kissed her, making sure to pull her close up against him as he did, and then said, "I love you, Rey. I'm so glad you're here."

"I'm glad I'm here with you, but I admit a I'm a bit surprised," she paused, "no offense, but I never thought I'd see myself involved with you in a romantic way a few months ago."

Kylo dipped his head for a few seconds, chuckled ever-so-slightly again and replied, "I remember the earlier days of our Bond. You didn't want to speak with me. You detested it when the Force would open our Bond. I'm glad things have changed. I'm glad the Force opened our Bond yesterday and showed you a vision of me facing Palpatine alone and that now we're together."

Rey chuckled, "Oh yes, I remember those days VERY well. I didn't exactly like it when the Force kept connecting us, but it did," she smiled, "I thought of it as an annoyance and didn't understand why in Force's name we'd be bonded like this when I use the Light Side and you use the Dark Side, however, I can see now why, but I didn't understand it back then and I didn't hide my annoyance, did I?"

Kylo smiled, "No, you didn't hide it. You made it very clear to me that you found it aggravating when the Force would open our Bond," he replied as he moved closer to her, "I'm glad we're together now."

They shared one more kiss and then Kylo continued, "Ready to have breakfast and then go to the meeting with me?"

"Yes, I'm hungry," she paused, "I also read over some data pads last night when I couldn't sleep at times last night. I still have a long way to go to understand First Order politics, but I'll get there. I have chosen to attend the meeting with you, but I will be silent, for now. I'm new here and don't want your officers to think I'm over stepping my boundaries. They most likely don't trust me anyway."

"I'm glad you read over some of the data pads I left for you. It's alright, you'll become more familiar with our politics soon enough."

"What issues are you dealing with today?" Rey asked.

"I have taxation issues in the Outer Rim to deal with, there are certain trade routes in the Mid Rim that have piracy problems and I also have to address the problems with Mandalore," he replied matter of factly.

"So, in other words, you have WAY too much to do?" Rey chuckled.

"Always," Kylo smiled back at her as he held out his arm to her, "but I not only enjoy ruling, I feel called by the Force to do so. I'm my grand father's heir," he paused again and tilted his head to look at her curiously, "do you know much about my grand father Vader? I wasn't sure if my mother told you much about him?"

"Your mother mentioned to me that Vader was her father and your grand father, but not much more. She did mention dictatorship politics was his way of doing things, but that's all I know."

"I'll take the time to tell you more about him," Kylo replied, "I'll take you to my quarters later and show you something. I have his old helmet set in a special place. I keep it in honor and memory of him. Also, he has a castle on Mustafar that I'd like to show you one day soon as well."

"Alright, I'll look forward to that," she replied.

Rey slid her arm through his as they left her quarters and had a private breakfast in his dining hall and then he escorted her through the endless corridors of the Finalizer and then then they arrived at the Supreme Council Hall. 

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

As Kylo and Rey walked into the Supreme Council Hall, all eyes were on Rey, and some of them were in shock and awe that she was even there. They were only expecting to see Kylo enter the room. When Rey walked in with him, she took a seat next to Kylo at the head of the table. By now, all of the officers at the table were exchanging confused glances back and forth at one another wondering why she was there and what this was all about.

Kylo stood at the head of the table, his mask was on. He looked at every single officer seated there and said, "As all of our know, I created this Supreme Council to bring my highest ranking officers and intelligence personnel together so we could discuss the issues of the galaxy. Unlike Snoke's regime, I want you all to be actively informed of my decisions for the galaxy. Although my every final decision is mine to make, I have gathered here in this room advisors I trust," he paused, "speaking of this council, there is a new member," he said, motioning over to Rey who was seated next to him, "this is Rey. She has joined me and also joined the First Order. She will be Empress over this galaxy and eventually you will take orders from her and obey her as yo would me."

There was a hush that fell over the entire room. Kylo could tell that many in this room were not at all comfortable with a former Scavenger from Jakku being here, even more so they were not happy because they knew Rey was also a Jedi and Light Side user of the Force and were confused. 

Kylo continued, "I don't have time to get into all of the details right now, but suffice it to say, you will show Miss Rey respect today as we discuss these important issues that are at hand before us today," he paused as he placed his hands on the table in front of him, "my intelligence officers have briefed me last night that the Outer Rim is grumbling about taxation out there. I am going to be appointing representatives to speak in my name to handle those tax issues. I have a plan to deal with that and will send those representatives with my orders when they visit the Outer Rim. I've decided to lower taxes in the Outer Rim by three percent. I realize the tax codes have not changed in the Outer Rim since Snoke's regime and many star systems out there are struggling, so by lowering taxes by three percent, it should ease the tensions. I'm also aware of the piracy situation in some of the Mid Riim trade routes. I'm going to be ordering as many destroyers as we can spare to be stationed at each of the trade routes in the Mid Rim to monitor the situation. I will not tolerate piracy and will make sure the galaxy prospers in our trade routes. If any pirates are found raiding ships that are traveling these trade routes, you are to seize control of their vessels and then bring the pirates to a First Order detention center. I will not have anarchy at my trade routes," he ordered firmly, "lastly, the main issue is Mandalore. I want an updated intelligence briefing right now from my intelligence officers. How severe is the threat from Mandalore?"

Before the intelligence officers could speak, General Hux spoke up and protested, "Supreme Leader, this Jedi, this Scavenger, does not have clearance to hear these issues. These issues are top secret First Order business. Is she cleared to be here to engage in these discussions? What if she is listening to all of this and eventually reports back to the Resistance?"

As Rey sat listening to all of this, she felt it was a legitimate question from Kylo's general to ask. After all, none of them knew her or trusted her yet. She waited quietly, for now, to see how Kylo would answer the question, however, it didn't catch her off guard or offend her that Kylo's top officers and intelligence personnel didn't trust her yet. 

Kylo replied, "This woman, Rey, will be your Empress and Empress of this entire galaxy. She is trustworthy, General Hux. She will not betray myself or the First Order. She and I are too powerful with the Force and I would know if she were lying to me. She is not. She has been briefed on the situations we are dealing with in the galaxy and will keep all of this top secret information in this room. Also, who are you to question my orders?"

General Hux took his seat once more. He knew Kylo well enough to know that all it would take was a wave of Kylo's hand using the Force to kill him where he sat, so he chose to nod and reply, "Very well, Supreme Leader. I will trust your judgement."

Kylo resumed speaking, "I hear from our intelligence personnel that Mandalore is trying to mount an uprising against us. They tried to do the same during the days of the Empire and I won't tolerate it again. The First Order has helped Mandalore economically and have protected them militarily from threatening worlds and star systems. Their grievances with the First Order is misplaced. I can see if we'd ignored their world, but we have not. I believe they simply do not want a dictatorship regime ruling over them or their sector of the galaxy. There are reports of not only an uprising against us, but chatter of anarchy being more prevalent due to the fact that their leadership and government is breaking down due to civil war amongst themselves. I plan to take the Finalizer to Mandalore, entera  standard orbit there, take my Command Shuttle in person and visit with whatever leadership there still remains and hear from them first hand what is taking place."

"Supreme Leader," General Pryde began, "apparently, Sir, not only are they on the brink of civil war amongst different factions of Mandalorians there, but there is looting in their streets, anarchy is rampant and there is also a new sect of Mandalorians being trained. These new trainees are being taught to come against the First Order."

"I won't have it," Kylo stood to his feet, placing his hands on the table, "I will go myself, speak with whatever leadership is there. I am ordering three star destroyers to accompany the Finalizer into orbit around Mandalore. I'm going to order special forces troops on the ground to stop a civil war from happening. We need the troops there to keep the peace. Also, I will inform the Mandalorian government, or what's left of it, that I will not tolerate a rebellion against the First Order, especially since we've helped them economically and militarily protected them since the days of the Empire. There is no reason for this potential uprising. However, I won't know all of the details until I visit there myself," he paused, "I want my Command Shuttle fueled and armed and I'm also ordering the Finalizer be taken to light speed at once. I want us in orbit around Mandalore by this time tomorrow," he ordered, "once we are in orbit, the Empress and I will be taking my Command Shuttle to the surface of Mandalore to meet with their government."

"Sir," General Pryde continued, "these new generation of Mandalorians are more well trained and their weapons tech has increased greatly. Their numbers are growing in vast quantities."

"And?" Kylo asked sarcastically, "And? They are no match for myself, our destroyers or our forces. Mandalorians are not Force sensitive. They rely on their technology in combat, but that is NO match for the power of the Force," he paused and looked at Rey, "I will ask the Empress to join me on Mandalore. She and I will handle this."

General Pryde nodded, "As you wish, Sir. I will have your shuttle fueled and armed and ready to go by the time we enter orbit around Mandalore tomorrow."

Rey sat listening to all of this. The gravity of the situation was finally hitting her. When she was still on Ajan Kloss in the Resistance, she thought all Kylo did was sit on a throne in the safety of his flag ship and let others go do his bidding, however, she was realizing that he was personally involved in these issues throughout the galaxy and honestly cared about law and order, not just power. She was under the impression that Kylo only cared about control, but she was now beginning to realize that he truly did care about the galaxy and it's citizens, along with law and order.

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After the meeting, Kylo escorted Rey back through the corridors of the ship, and as he did, he took a couple of hours to give her a tour. She was amazed at the size of the ship, it's armaments, it's capabilities and technology. Kylo took her to highly sensitive areas of the ship, showing her engineering, he showed her other top secret places on board and even took her to see the bridge. He introduced her to every officer on the bridge. By the time he'd finished giving her a tour, as they were walking through the corridors of the ship, he asked her if she'd like to see his quarters!

Rey's arm was slung through Kylo's as they walked along. Of course, all eyes were on them as they walked along together, but no one dared to question Kylo about it! 

"Rey, would you like to see my quarters? I'd like to show you where I live and also share with you where I keep my grand father Vader's helmet."

Rey smiled up at him, "Sure, I'd like to do that."

Kylo was overjoyed as he had Rey on his arm. He felt complete and his heart was filled with anticipation that she was not only here with him, but that she was willing to start a new life with him, a romantic one at that! The romantic tension and sexual tension between them was thick. They both felt the tension with one another in the Force, but both of them were trying to keep it under control for the time being, but it was 'understood' between them what they were both feeling.

As Rey entered Kylo's quarters with him, she was once again awestruck with the luxury and size of how he lived. His quarters had everything, including access to bridge controls, weapons controls and cameras that monitored every sensitive area on the ship. His quarters had a kitchen area and two large bedrooms and Freshers. He had a personal office as well as a lounge area. 

Kylo took Rey to see where he kept his grand father's mask. It was the most private area in his quarters, and the most revered, so when he took her to see it, she felt honored that he'd share that aspect of his life with her. 

"Here is my grand father's mask," Kylo began after he used his palm scanner to open the door to the room where he kept it, "it means so much to me."

Rey walked up to it and looked it over, then she looked over at Kylo and replied, "I appreciate you sharing something so intimate and so precious with me, Ben. I know this means a lot to you and that you wouldn't just allow anyone to have access to this room where you keep Vade's mask."

Kylo took Rey by both hands, looked down into her eyes and replied, "It is intimate for me, but I love you," he paused, "I want to share everything with you."

Rey held onto his hands as she gazed up into those deep brown eyes of his and she didn't quite know what to say. There were emotions surging through both of them that words weren't deep enough for! They stood there holding onto one another's hands, gazing into one another's eyes for several seconds before Kylo leaned down and pressed his lips to hers.

"Rey, I.....," Kylo whispered out in a low and soothing voice, not sure what else he should say. Words weren't enough.

"I know," Rey replied as she gazed back at him with the same intensity as he was gazing at her!

"I...," he stopped and dipped his head for a moment, not sure how to go on and then said, "Rey, are you ready or willing to share something more with me? Or am I moving too quickly?"

Rey took a couple of deep breaths and swallowed rather hard while keeping her gaze absolutely FIXED on him and replied, "I'm....," she paused, "I know what we are both wanting and feeling. I can sense it. It actually doesn't take the Force between us for me to know what we both want, but the Force is definitely letting me feel your desire."

"Do you share my desire?" he asked with a hopeful look in his eyes.

"I do," she replied with a very slight nod, still not able to look away. His eyes and gaze held her captive. 

Kylo held out his hand to her. They both knew and understood what this moment meant, even without a lot of words or conversation. Rey put her hand into his hand and then he picked her up in his arms. Rey threw her arms around his neck as he walked out of the room where he kept Vader's helmet and started walking with her in his arms through his quarters and straight for his bedroom. 

Rey put her head on his shoulder and he turned his head slightly and whispered to her, "Are you sure you want this with me?"

Rey kissed his neck and ran her hand through his hair as he carried her, "Yes, I want this."

The sexual tension had reached an all time high. Rey thought she could wait longer to be intimate with him, but she didn't want to wait any longer. She wanted him so badly and he wanted her and they were going to consummate their love that night.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: The Delight Of making Love To You (Part 1)

Rey was leaning her head against Kylo's shoulder as he carried her into his bedroom. He spoke to her softly, "Are you sure you want this with me? We can stop right now if you want to."

She kissed his neck and tightened her arms' grip around his neck and replied, "Yes, Ben, I want this with you."

The sexual tension between them had reached an all time high. Kylo had wanted Rey for months now, but he knew she was resisting their Bond and wanted to make sure that she was alright with this.  When Rey decided to join Kylo, she thought she could wait longer to be intimate with him, but the urge to be close to him was beginning to overwhelm her. This newfound romance was almost affecting her like a euphoria, an emotion she never expected to have happen with a former adversary. Rey wanted him so badly now and they both had the exact same desires for one another.

What both of them did not know yet, since this was to be their 'first time' together, was that the Force was going to bless this consummation by completely heightening their pleasure with one another and making their Bond inseparable, an experience that neither would ever forget. The Force had plans for them and was going to bring them both to a place of euphoric emotions and love that neither of them had ever experienced.

Kylo gently set Rey down on her feet right in front of him. He put both if his hands on her waist and looked down into her hazel eyes and spoke softly saying, "Force, Rey. I've wanted this with you for so long," he said as he stroked her hair and cheek, "You're so beautiful."

Rey's lips parted slightly as she looked up into his deep brown eyes. She was studying everything about him, his eyes, his hair, the expression on his face, and she could sense his emotions by using the Force. Through the Force, she knew Kylo loved her and wasn't just using her for a 'one night stand' or just for 'sex'. She truly KNEW he loved and wanted her, forever. 

"Ben," she said as she kept gazing up at him, "I can tell you really DO love me. You aren't just using me."

Kylo nudged Rey closer into his arms and held her there against him and replied softly in that deep soothing voice of his, "Rey, I DO love you. I've loved you since Takodana. I'm not using you. This is not just an affair to me or a 'one night stand', you have my word. I want to pledge myself to you for the rest of our lives. I will love and cherish you always. Tonight will stay with me forever. You giving yourself to me is the greatest gift that could happen in my life."

Rey was shocked by this statement. Really? Giving herself to him was the greatest gift of his life?

"Really?" sheh asked, "I never really knew, until now, just how deeply you felt about me," she paused, "I feel the same about you. I fought my feelings for you for months now, but deep inside me, I knew I was falling in love with you but resisted it. Now I don't want to resist it any longer."

"Yes, really," Kylo paused after giving her a soft kiss, then he continued, "the greatest gift of my life is not ruling the galaxy or ruling alone on a throne, or the power that comes with it. The greatest gift is you and the Force drew us together and I'm forever grateful."

Rey spoke softly in return, "I'm inexperienced, Ben. I'm sorry. I know you probably expect that I know what to do next, but......, well.....," she stopped.

Kylo cupped Rey's face in his hands, gazed into her eyes and replied with such tenderness, "That doesn't matter to me, Rey. We all feel awkward when it's our 'first time'. I went through that too, but that's not what matters to me. I'm not expecting anything from you. I just want your love and for you to let me love YOU," he paused, kissed her again and then continued, "just let yourself go. Whatever you're feeling and wanting, don't hold back. Let yourself 'feel' the moment in the Force with me, alright?"

Rey nodded. She was not a shy person, but this was her first time making love and it was making her feel a bit inexperienced and uneasy. She wondered what Kylo might think of her body or how her 'performance' would be since she was new to this, but Kylo reassured her that she had nothing to worry about. 

Kylo gently leaned his forehead against hers and continued softly, "I will take the lead since this is your first time, if you don't mind? It's not because I'm trying to take control, but I will help guide you into what might make you feel nice," he paused and then looked at her again, "I also have to touch you in ways you've never been touched before in order to make sure your body is ready for me. Are you alright with this?"

Rey nodded, "Yes, I'm alright with that, however," she paused for a long few seconds and then continued, "will this hurt? I've heard from other women, both on Jakku, and in the Resistance, that a woman's first time can be somewhat uncomfortable. Be honest with me."

Kylo sighed and his eyes took on an almost apologetic look as he replied honestly, "I won't lie to you. It might be a little uncomfortable for you when I first enter you, but I will do my best to move slowly and I will be gentle. I'm not a harsh lover, Rey. Also, I will make sure you feel pleasure long before I do."

Rey looked confused, "You will make sure I feel pleasure first? How?"

Kylo loved her innocence in all of this. He was so overwhelmed with her trust in him and replied, "I can make sure you climax or have intense pleasure, yes, before I do. I just need you to trust me. Do you trust me?"

"Yes, I trust you."

Kylo smiled warmly at her and then said, "I will start to undress first. If I go first, it might ease any anxiety you have, okay?"

Rey nodded silently, feeling touched that he offered to undress first. She watched with baited breath as he removed his tunic and set it off to the side. She then watched as he started to unzip his leather pants. Once he removed them, he was standing there in front of her wearing only some black silk sleep shorts. He literally took her breath away. He looked perfectly chiseled and muscular and it made her lips part with anticipation. She looked him over from head to toe and loved every inch of what she saw. 

Rey remembered seeing him shirtless once before during one of their Force Bond connections, but this was different! He was standing right here in front of her, offering himself. She moved closer to him and reached out her hands and began to run her palms down his chest. Then she ran her hands along his muscular arms. The entire time she was touching him, Kylo breathed in deeply, sounding almost like sighs of pleasure, and closed his eyes for a moment. Once he opened his eyes, he saw Rey scanning his entire body. Rey glanced down at his silk shorts and noticed that he was most definitely aroused. He had a large bulge showing beneath his silk shorts. She was now wondering just how large he might be?

"I love you're touching me," he spoke softly to her.

Rey's eyes flickered back and forth between his eyes and his body. She was fully taking the sight of him in. Kylo was enjoying letting her examine his body. Rey looked a little shy at first, but then as she kept running her hands over his body, her shyness started to disappear. Kylo could see the hunger in her eyes and in her expression. She wanted him and wanted him badly. 

"Rey, may I start to remove your top and breast band or would you like to do it yourself?" he asked, trying to make sure she knew he wasn't trying to control everything and give her the freedom to do what she wanted to do.

"You can remove my top and breast band," she said, a slightly red flush engulfing her cheeks. 

Kylo reached toward her and began to remove her top. Once her top was on the bedside, he pulled he gently against his bare chest and then reached around with his right hand and was looking for the latch of her breast band. This was the moment Rey felt anxious about. She was not big breasted and she wondered if he'd like what he was about to see? As Kylo unlatched her breast band, and it fell to the floor at her feet, Rey watched as Kylo's eyes lit up and his lips parted slightly with delight. It was obvious to her that he LOVED what he was seeing of her body. Rey was still wearing her leggings, but that was it. 

"You are beyond beautiful, Rey," Kylo sighed to her, "may I run my hands along your breasts and waist? I need to touch you."

"Yes, touch me," she gave him permission, hungry for his touch as well.

She was relieved that he didn't find her smaller breast size a 'turn off'. Kylo continued speaking to her as he ran his hands all along her waist and her breasts, "you are so lovely, so perfect. You're more beautiful than I had imagined."

"I'm glad you think so. I'm so young and I haven't had a chance to 'fill out' yet," she said, almost apologetically, "I'm only nineteen and.....,"

Kylo put his fingers to her lips to silence her gently and replied, "Rey, shhhh," he paused, "your body is everything beautiful. Just touching you, seeing you, it's all I've wanted. You are just fine for me. Please, don't worry. I'm mesmerized just looking at you."

Rey knew he was telling her the truth. Not only could she sense it in the Force, but she could see by the look on his face that he was literally worshipping her body as he touched her.

Kylo then gently laid her back onto his bed. As Rey's head hit the pillows, her eyes were so heavily lidded as Kylo slowly hovered himself over her. His eyes penetrated hers and both of them were gazing at one another with wild desire and love! Kylo Ren his hand through Rey's hair, while supporting her head with his other hand. He leaned down, pressed his lips to hers and began to passionately kiss her lips and then moved his way down to her neck. He pulled up for only a few seconds, looked down at her bare breasts, as if he were asking Rey's permission to take her breasts into his mouth. Rey knew what he wanted and she simply nodded 'yes' to him silently.

Kylo kissed his way down from her lips, to her collar bone, her neck and then took each breast nipple into his mouth. Rey GASPED with such intense pleasure as he did this to her. He alternated to each breast, suckling her and caressing her breasts gently. The look in his eyes was like a man enjoying a feast! Rey ran her arms around to his back and up and down his shoulders as he did this to her, pleasuring her in this way. He kissed his way back up to her lips and then she gripped him even more tightly and began to return his kisses with just as much passion.

As Kylo hovered over her, kissing her passionately, she could feel his body against hers. She felt his hard arousal pressed against her groin. She was beginning to feel so aroused herself, even becoming wet at feeling his hard length pressed against her. Kylo lifted up from kissing her for a few seconds, stroked her cheek and hair and then said, "I'm going to remove my shorts now. I will go first again this time."

Rey nodded 'yes' to him and then watched as he sat up and slowly began to remove his last bit of clothing, his black silk shorts. Once he did remove them, it was nothing short of shock for Rey. Not only was he beautiful, but quite above average in length and size! Now she was beginning to wonder whether it would hurt her to feel him inside of her. Kylo could sense her anxiety over this in the Force. They could each know and sense one another's thoughts and emotions through the Force. 

"Ben, your body is so beautiful," she paused as her eyes scanned every inch of him, LITERALLY, and then she continued, "you're not exactly 'small', are you?" she smiled.

Kylo dipped his head with a slight smile, his eyes heavily lidded as he said to her, "I promise I'll move slowly, Rey. I will prepare your body for me. I won't just put myself inside of you without preparing you first. I will also make sure you climax long before I am inside of you," he paused and hovered over her again, "if at any time you want me to slow down or stop, just tell me. I will do as you ask. This will be at your pace, alright?"

Rey was stunned by the tender and gentle lover he actually was. She'd only seen the harsh Dark Side Warrior aspect of him, but never THIS side of him. She was falling more in love with him by the second. 

"Alright," she sighed, "somehow I thought you'd be a harsh lover in bed," she paused, "how are you going to make me climax unless you're inside of me?"

Kylo smiled warmly at her once more and replied as he stroked her cheek, again, touched by the innocence of her reaction and questions, "I'm not going to be harsh with YOU. You're my treasure, and I will treat you as my treasure while we make love, "he paused and then answered her question and replied, "I don't have to be inside of you to make you come and feel intense pleasure. Once I'm inside of you, I will make you climax that way too, but I have other ways of giving you the same pleasure. Just trust me," he paused yet again and then asked, "may I touch you in ways to make that happen?"

Rey loved how he asked her permission before doing anything to her. She replied, "Yes, Ben," as she ran her hand through his thick, dark hair.

Kylo kissed his way down to her breasts once more, then moved his way with his lips down her abdomen until he reached her thighs. Once he removed her leggings, he was kissing her inner thighs now. Rey was finally beginning to see what he was talking about! He began to use his finger and mouth to pleasure her in ways she'd never known before! He used his finger, gently inserting it into her and then used his tongue and mouth to stimulate her clit. 

Rey's head went deep back into the pillows as Kylo pleasured her. She closed her eyes, her breathing was heavily labored. Kylo's eyes were on her reaction the entire time. He absolutely loved pleasuring her like this and it gave HIM pleasure just watching her feel this way!

"Force, Ben!" she let out in a loud gasp, "oh my....." she said as she gripped the sheets tightly with her hands.

Kylo continued to pleasure her like this until she had her very first climax. He memorized each second of her writhing and squirming with pleasure as he watched her come! 

Then, once she climaxed, she was breathless and in shock and knew now how he could give her this kind of experience without even being inside of her just yet. She lifted her head and looked at him with surprise and heavily lidded eyes, not sure what to say. She was still breathless as she came down from her euphoric physical 'high'.

Kylo kissed his way back up her body and then hovered over her, kissing her once more and then asked, "How do you feel?"

Rey shook her head in near disbelief and said, "I don't even have the words. I feel things I don't know how to describe. That was....., amazing."

"Rey," he began with that mesmerizing soothing and deep voice of his, "I want to be inside of you so much," he paused and kept gazing into her hazel eyes, "May I? I'll move slowly, but I need to feel you."

"Yes, I want to feel you too, but...., please move slowly?"

Kylo Ren his hand through her hair with the most tender glance, nodded and said, "You have my word. I promise, I'll move slowly."

"

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: The Delight of Making Love to You (part 2)

"Rey," Kylo's smooth deep voice penetrated her heart and soul, "I want to be inside of you so much," his gaze burned through her, "may I?"

"Yes, I want to feel you too, but......," she paused, "please move slowly?"

"You have my word. I'll move slowly, I wouldn't purposely hurt you," he paused as he peppered kisses along her mouth and neck and then continued, "let me know if you want me to stop at any time. I will if you need me to."

Kylo was hoping that Rey would enjoy this with him and not suffer too much discomfort with this being her 'first time', he wanted her to bask in the one-ness and the pleasure they felt for one another.

Kylo took himself in hand and slowly ran his length along her clit and core, and as he did so, he sighed with longing, "You're so wet, so warm."

Rey sighed in response, feeling all of the energy and emotion between them due to the power of the Force uniting them beyond reason or anything either of them ever expected, "I," she paused, "I want to feel you too, Ben."

Kylo slowly entered her, only but an inch or so and then he stopped. He was examining Rey's face to be sure she was alright. He was larger than Rey anticipated, and he knew this, so he moved slowly, just as he had promised her. He would never purposely cause her discomfort and was still concerned about this even though he wanted to plunge deeply within her.

Rey gasped as he was moving more deeply inside of her. Her gasp was not one of pain, but one of awe, pleasure and feeling mesmerized by this moment with a man she once considered her enemy.

"How can this be so....," she stopped with a look of mesmerized awe in her eyes as she looked up at Kylo lovingly and longingly, "so....., intense, so tender?"

Kylo, though only about two inches inside of her, stopped and stroked her cheek and ran his fingers through her hair and replied, "I know. It's tender, yet so passionate between us. I love you, Rey."

Rey lifted her hands and cupped his face, admiring the way his hair fell around his face, the deep brown of his eyes and replied, "I'm falling in love with you too," she paused, "we're the most unlikely couple, but I'm not going fight this any longer."

Kylo smiled down at her as he thrust a bit more into her, but gently, and replied, "I have wanted to hear those words from you for so long."

As Kylo slowly thrust more deeply into her, Rey winced for a few seconds. it was obvious to Kylo that she was feeling a bit uncomfortable. He stilled himself within her, not moving for more than several seconds and asked, "Rey? Are you alright? I can stop."

Rey chuckled, "You are not exactly small, are you?" she paused, "just give me a minute."

Kylo nodded and smiled back at her, "I''ll wait for as long as you need me to," he paused, kissing her lips and neck and then continued, "I'm overwhelmed just being inside of you at all. You're so warm, so soft, so.....," he paused.

Rey ran her hands over his arms and along the small of his back and then continued, "Alright, you can go more deeply now. I needed a moment to adjust to you," she said as she was now running her hands through is thick, black silken hair.

Kylo closed his eyes for a few seconds as he felt the pleasure of Rey's hands running through his hair. Rey drank in the sight of him right now. It overwhelmed her to see him like this. Rey lunged upward as he thrust a bit more deeply into her and pulled his lips down to hers. Kylo wrapped his arms around her, enveloping her completely in his embrace as they kissed one another with such intensity and desperation.

Finally, Rey's body adjusted to Kylo and she spoke to him softly saying, "You can move more deeply into me now. I want to feel more of you, Ben."

Kylo nodded to her, his breathing was broken and his pleasure was almost immeasurable. His pleasure was not only physical, but emotional. He was overwhelmed that Rey trusted him, that she allowed him access to her this intimately and that she actually was falling in love with him and desired him. All of this overwhelmed his heart and soul.

The Force was bonding the two even more deeply now. They had been bonded this past year, yes, but their intimacy in this moment was binding them to each other in ways that only the two of them could completely understand or comprehend. Their love was unlike anything either of them thought possible, especially after having been former enemies!

"Ben," Rey sighed with a longing whisper. She could tell that the intensity of his pleasure was increasing. He was close to climax and Kylo knew this as well. 

Kylo slowly pulled out of Rey's body and put his forehead against hers and whispered softly to her, "Rey, I am going to come way too early. It's been a long time since I've," he hesitated not wanting to say another word or bring up the subject of his past sexual experiences to Rey, his only love and he completed his sentence carefully, "It's been a while and I don't want to come before you have a chance to come again."

Rey nodded as she looked up at him. She was young, but not so naive not to know that Kylo, due to their age difference, had most likely had other partners in his past, but she didn't want to focus on that either and simply replied, "Okay, what do we do now?"

Kylo was moved in his heart due to her inexperience and innocence. He kissed her lightly on the lips and then replied, "You are my only love, Rey," he paused as he ran his hands through her hair and then ran his right hand along her cheek, "I will roll over onto my back. You can get on top of me, take me into yourself and control the pace. If you are in this position, you will most likely come again easily and then I might be able to come with you."

Rey, with her inexperience, nodded to Kylo and watched as he rolled onto his back. She felt his large, warm hands guiding her to straddle him. As she did so, she felt Kylo position himself to enter her from beneath now. She locked eyes with him, not able, not wanting to look away, and then slowly slid down onto him, taking him into her, inch by glorious inch.

Kylo sighed and moaned lightly with pleasure as she took him into herself so slowly. 

"Rey, you feel so," he paused, his body jerked a little as she took him into herself more deeply and then he continued, "Force, you feel so warm, so soft."

Rey nodded breathless. Not even sure she had the words to describe to him what she was feeling at this very second. They were both so lost in one another, so lost in this feeling, this physical and emotional Bond they shared and there was simply no human words to describe what they felt.

"You feel so good too," she sighed out to him with panting longing, "so good."

Kylo placed his hands gently onto her hips and guided her to move against him. She followed his lead and began to grind against him slowly. As she did, she could feel her own climax building yet again. She had no idea it would be this loving, this tender, this glorious with Kylo....., but it WAS!

"Oh yes," Rey sighed out to him, "Ben......."

Kylo wrapped his arms around her, pulling her down flush against his body as the two of them oved in unison, "I know, Rey. I know," he replied as he kissed her forehead while she lay flush against him and grinding as well.

The two grasped onto one another with desperation as Kylo longing said to her, "Rey, I'm going to come. How do you feel?"

"I feel so good," she whispered back with just as much longing, "I think I'm going to come with you."

This excited all-the-more to hear this! He thrust more quickly up into her, but still was being careful to monitor her expression for any signs of discomfort. Rey was matching his thrusts with her own as they held onto one another for what seemed like 'dear life'.

Finally, they both experienced a climax TOGETHER, so intense, so fulfilling and so filled with the Force's blessing that, again, they could scarcely put words to what they were feeling and sharing with one another! Rey climaxed and let out a sigh and called out Kylo's name as she did.

Kylo closed his eyes for a few seconds as he was about to let go. He wanted to see Rey climax first before he did. He spoke to her softly asking, "May I come inside of you or do you want me to pull out?"

Rey didn't know what to say at first. After all, this was her 'first time' and she was following his lead. She replied, "I want to feel you, ALL of you, Ben. Come inside of me, let me feel this for the first time."

Kylo nodded to her. His black silken hair was still framing his face beautifully, a slight visage of sweat encircled his locks as he looked up at her due to the passion of this moment between them. Kylo let go. His body jerked slightly and he moaned  in a low voice as he let himself to and climaxed. After he came, he slowly reached for Rey, begging her to stay in his arms for the rest of the night. He didn't want to let go. The Love of his life was in his arms and he would do everything possible, within his power, to keep her and to continue to win her trust and love, now and for the rest of their lives.

This was a love that most people would never believe could happen or exist, but it did!

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

The following morning Kylo and Rey were still deeply asleep in one another's arms.  Rey moved a little, but as she did, she slowly opened her eyes and looked at Kylo laying there next to her. She was still practically on top of him and he was still asleep, his hadn't moved all night long. He was still holding onto her with such tenderness, but with such strength.

Rey studied him as he slept. She didn't want to wake him just yet. She was amazed and in awe this morning. Did they really make love the night before? Was she really here in his arms, in his bed and on board his star destroyer? She shook her head with a smile as she studied him. She then slowly raised her right hand and moved some of Kylo's black, thick hair out of his eyes as he slept. This stirred Kylo and he eventually woke up. 

He smiled at her and the look in his eyes was one of pure love and delight at seeing Rey here beside him, "Rey, good morning," he kissed her, "you're here. You're actually HERE."

Rey nearly felt as though she would cry due to this statement. She had known in the past that Kylo had wanted her to join him, that he had feelings for her, but she had no idea, until NOW, just how deeply he felt for her and desired her.

"Good morning, Ben," she paused as she continued to drink in the sight of him, "I don't know about you, but I'm hungry," she paused again as she ran her hands down this chest, "what do you people in the First Order do here for breakfast around here, anyway?" she teased him.

Kylo actually chuckled, something Rey was not used to seeing at all. This was definitely a side of him she wasn't expecting, "I'm hungry too," he replied and then continued, "I'll have my chefs send something up to my quarters right away," he paused yet again and then teased her in return and said, "we here in the First Order eat food just like you do in the Resistance."

Rey chuckled in reply, "Yeah, yeah," she smiled, "I know."

"After we eat, are you still up to coming with to me to Mandalore, Empress?" Kylo asked.

Rey sat upright with a little astonishment. She had forgotten, due to the euphoria of their lovemaking the night before and replied, "I keep forgetting you're making me Empress of this galaxy. I need to get used to that."

Kylo kissed her and then replied, "You are Empress," he began, "and all will honor and respect you as they do me," he then stood to his feet, put on a black silk robe and walked over to a COMM console to order their breakfast. 

Rey watched him as he spoke to his chefs in his dining hall. She noticed that his demeanor was one of authority and command as he ordered his chefs to bring them breakfast. He was a different man when he was with her  and she was beginning to see this now behind closed doors. The aggressive harsh ruler that she'd once considered her enemy was actually a tender lover to her in private. She was beginning to believe that he only trusted HER as a Light Side user of the Force All of his other associations with those who used the Light Side hurt him, betrayed him or tried to kill him. Rey was seeing that he trusted HER beyond all others. It moved her heart and she was now just as committed to him, and this new love of theirs, more than ever.

"The food is on it's way up here," Kylo said as he sat down beside her on the bed. He ran his right hand along her cheek and said, "I love you. You complete me. Thank you for last night," he paused, "after we eat, we can shower, get dressed and you will accompany me as Empress when we land on Mandalore!"

"Surpeme Leader and Empress," Rey responded, "I'm beginning to like the sound of that."

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Tensions Between Mandalore and the First Order (Part 1)

"Supreme Leader and Empress," she paused, "I like the sound of that," she paused and then continued as she stood to put a robe on and then continued, "Ben, can I ask you something?"

Kylo stopped and looked at her intently and replied, "Rey, you can ask me anything. I will always open up to you."

Rey took a seat on the edge of the bed and continued, "Good. I've noticed that you trust me. I use the Light Side, and yet you don't see me as your enemy. What made you trust me even though you and I use opposite sides of the Force? I'm getting to know you now, I'm seeing a side of you I didn't realize before, and I want to know more about you."

Kylo took a seat next to her on the bed and took her hand into his own and replied, "It's a long story," he began, "I have trusted you since I first met you. I felt a connection in the Force with you that I couldn't explain. My family history has made me hesitant to trust Light Siders. However, with you, I felt the Force leading me to trust you. It was as if the Force was enlightening me that we were Bonded in a far deeper way, regardless of which sides of the Force we use," he paused, "my parents sent me away when they saw that I use the Dark Side. I trained with my uncle Luke for a couple of years and he started to sense that I used the Dark Side and actually tried to murder me in my sleep," he paused again, and as he did, Rey gripped his hand in compassion and sympathy. Kylo continued, "However, when the Force caused our paths to cross, I felt a connection and Bond with you that I didn't fully understand."

"I'm sorry your family sent you away and that your uncle tried to murder you," she dipped her head, "thanks for explaining this to me. I woke this morning thinking of our intimate night last night together and I couldn't help but wonder why you decided to trust me or what drew you to me. Most people who see us a couple now, both the First Order and the Resistance, will wonder why we ended up together. Like I said last night, we are an unlikely couple."

Kylo's eyes were so soft as he regarded her. He looked down at Rey holding his hand and replied, "I admit, you are the only Light Side user of the Force I trust right now. I don't know what future the Force has in mind for me with my family, or if we will ever see eye-to-eye, but for now, you are the one I trust."

Rey's eyes watered a bit as she listened. Rey didn't only listen with her ears, but her heart as well. She realized that from Kylo's point of view, he'd felt betrayed by his family who were Light Siders and she felt compassion for him. 

They spent the next couple of hours eating breakfast, showering and getting dressed. As Rey was coming out of the Fresher from her shower, she noticed that an entire new wardrobe had been delivered to Kylo's quarters especially for HER. She clutched her robe against her as she crossed the room with a smile, looked over at Kylo and said, "All these formal clothes are for me?"

Kylo smiled. He was already dressed in his uniform and was about to put his light saber on his belt and replied, "Yes. I had made arrangements for your new ward robe to be sent up last night, but it didn't arrive until this morning. I hope you find things in this assortment of clothes that you like. I wanted you to have clothing that reflected your status as Empress of this galaxy, especially since you will be accompanying me to Mandalore as the galaxy's new Empress."

Rey smiled back at him, feeling charmed and delighted and responded, "Wow, yes," she said as she held up a couple formal gowns, "I definitely like these. I'm not used to this."

"I can't wait to see which outfit you choose," Kylo answered with delight of his own, so enraptured in his soul that she was actually here with him and continued, "I'll be waiting while you get dressed. I'm glad you're coming with me to Mandalore. I don't mean to change the subject, but this situation with the Mandalorians is getting out of hand. I need to deal with it. I will not allow them to rise up against the First Order and add to more division in the galaxy. With you ruling alongside me, you will help me bring balance to politics now and hopefully heal divisions that have been taking place in this galaxy for generations."

Rey found an outfit she liked and held it her hands as she replied, "Yes. I remember you mentioning to me before that you wanted 'old things to die' and that the old politics were not working and you wanted to do something new politically for the galaxy," she paused, "you're sure you want me to bring the Light Side into things? I thought you were happy ruling alone with the Dark Side."

"Rey," Kylo began, "the Force has allowed me to see that the political ways of this galaxy have never truly worked, nor was there stability. It was always the Sith against the Jedi and vice versa, both sides killing, warring and divisions going on. The citizens of this galaxy had no true stability, in my opinion. Also, even though I use the Dark Side, and always will, I also felt the Force show me that BOTH sides were necessary. For me to exclude, or ignore the Light Side, would be to ignore the other half of the Force. It's wisdom to have both sides ruling. When the Light Side rules, to the exclusion of the Dark Side, they too are ignoring the other half of the Force. I've come to realize that both sides, Dark and Light, make up the ONE living Force. I knew when I offered my hand to you that you were my equal in the Light, and I have no desire to change you."

"That is deep," Rey began, "I appreciate you sharing this again. Well, with you and I ruling together, bringing both sides of the Force into galactic politics, there are bound to be new things in store. I hope that this vision we both have from the Force will be successful."

Kylo leaned over and kissed her gently on the lips. Rey closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth and softness of his mouth on hers. Kylo answered, "I'm glad you are with me now. I'm thankful to the Force that we both can move forward together, as it should be," he paused, "The Force has done this between us and I'm forever grateful."

"Well, it takes a lot of willingness on your part to compromise by acknowledging the Light Side. When I first met you, I thought all you cared about was ruling with the Dark Side."

"If that is all I cared about, I would never have asked you to join me," Kylo began, "I knew full well that you were not a Dark Sider when I extended my hand to you. The Force had already been at work in my life showing me that the Light was needed as well, and YOU, Rey, are that Light. The old politics were not working and there was no stability in the galaxy, just constant division. Now, I have hopes that will change."

Rey got dressed for the day while Kylo made sure preparations for his Command Shuttle were being readied. As she got dressed, she looked herself over in the mirror and concluded that she definitely looked like an Empress. As she looked at her reflection in the mirror, she thought to herself that this would be her first mission of a political nature. She knew Kylo had been raised for politics and was groomed for it, but this was her first experience with such a mission. She hoped that she could do the Force's will and help bring balance to the First Order and the galaxy, as Kylo hoped.

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

Kylo extended his arm to Rey and she slid her arm through is as they left his quarters and made their way to the hangar bay for the Command Shuttle. As they boarded the Command Shuttle, every officer on board was shocked to see Rey on Kylo's arm. Kylo noticed the look of shock on their faces, but he ignored it and took a seat beside Rey. 

"Take us to Mandalore," Kylo commanded, "I want us there as soon as possible. I will not allow an uprising to occur."

"Yes, Supreme Leader," the pilots replied as they started the engines. 

Rey looked out the window as she sat beside Kylo. Once the Command Shuttle had launched from the hangar bay, she was able to get a really good view of the Finalizer. Kylo's flag ship was more than impressive. The newer star destroyers were much larger than the days of the Empire and the weaponry was now far more advanced. As she looked out the window at the Finalizer, Kylo took her hand into his gloved hand and whispered to her, "I am glad you're here. We will put a stop to this threat from Mandalore."

Rey gripped his hand back and replied, "I hope so, however, I will hold you to your word that you will allow the Light Side into our negotiations with them."

Kylo nodded to her and answered, "I remember my promise to you, however, I will not go easy on them. They have attacked several of our installations, ships and assets. I won't stand for anymore of this. If I have to use harsh measures to stop them, I will. I will not have my, OUR rule, be opposed by their rebellion."

Rey was already seeing where her influence with the Light Side was necessary here! She smiled at him and responded softly, "I understand. I don't want division either, or uprisings, however, if you let me influence our discussions with along with you, we might be able to reach a compromise peacefully where you won't have to resort to harsh measures."

Kylo knew what she was hinting at and replied "I know I don't rule alone anymore," he paused, "I will do my best to restrain that side of myself, and of course, you will influence things. That's why I wanted you to join me," he paused yet again and then whispered to her privately while no officers were near them and continued, "last night meant everything to me, Rey."

"Me too," she answered, a slight red flush coming over her face, "I never thought it could be this way between us."

"I am going to do my job today, but it's going to be difficult for me to concentrate due to what we shared," he admitted.

Rey was impressed with his showing such vulnerability to her right now and answered with a smile and another grip on his hand, "I feel the same. All I can think about is last night," she paused, "let's try to focus. We need the Force's guidance to handle this situation with Mandalore. We'll have more time together soon."

"I'm looking forward to being alone with you again more than I can say," he replied.

As they jumped to light speed, and were on their way to Mandalore, one of the pilots of the Command Shuttle looked concerned as he was receiving a transmission from the Finalizer. Kylo noticed the concerned look on the pilot's face and asked, "What is wrong? Do you have an intelligence update?"

Kylo stood to his feet as the pilot replied, "Yes, Supreme Leader, it appears that some Mandalorians have attacked yet another one of our destroyers and now the government of Mandalore is trying to put up a literal 'blockade' around their planet to try to stop us from landing. I just received his word from our intelligence officers on the Finalizer."

"A blockade?" Kylo asked angrily, "they WILL be paid a visit from myself and the Empress today, whether they like it or not," he paused. Rey watched him pace a couple of times and then he continued, "contact any destroyers we have in the Mandalorian sector. Have them rendezvous with my Command Shuttle upon our arrival. I'm landing on that planet and no blockade will stop me."

Rey took a couple of deep breaths! She suddenly realized that this day may NOT go as she and Kylo planned and that things might just get very tense soon.