"My Lady!" Darach's voice was heard behind Rey. "Please. My Lady." He pleaded. "Step away from the ledge."

Slowly turning around, Rey's swollen, red eyes met the Master of Arms's. Extending his arm, he gently beckoned her to come closer.

With chattering teeth, she took a shaky breath and then slowly shuffled toward him.

As soon as she was within arms reach, he grabbed hold of her. Then swiftly picking her up into his arms, he walked back to his vehicle that parked behind hers.

Placing the half-frozen Rey into the snowmobile, he quickly pulled a blanket from the backseat and covered the shivering Rey up. Then starting up the machine, he drove back toward his place.

When they reached his house, he parked the vehicle in the garage and picking up Rey, he walked into his modest home.

Placing her down on the couch, Darach quickly wrapped her bare feet into a heating pad, and then looking at her sorrowful expression, he said.

"I don't know what you were doing out there, but you could have lost your toes or your feet if you have stayed any longer." With a solemn face, he added. "Frostbite is the second common cause of losing limbs around here."

Blankly staring into his worried face, Rey had no desire to talk to anyone at the moment. She wanted to be left alone and maybe just die? She thought disheartened.

When she didn't reply, he stood up and went into his tidy, small kitchen to make a hot cup of tea. Coming back from the kitchen, he sat down across from her and placed the steaming mug on the table between them.

Rey stared at the hot steam that looked inviting as it drifted off the mug. She wondered what was in it. With trembling hands, she reached for the cup, but in the last second, she changed her mind. Looking into his bright green eyes, she cleared her throat and with a hoarse whispering voice, she asked.

"Why are you doing this?"

"I saw you running away in the casino. You looked really upset, so I followed you." Darach replied. Then he added. "I know they will be looking for you soon. You cannot stay here for too long. I have to return you."

With pleading eyes Rey spoke up again.

"Please…. let me stay a little longer."

"Alright." Darach agreed, while a small smile appeared on his face. "Only if you drink this tea."

Nodding her head, and with trembling hands she reached again for the cup. Holding it in her hand, she savored its warmth.

A sweet aroma filled her mouth as she took a small sip. The tea tasted pleasantly good and taking another sip, Rey let out a small pleasurable moan as the dark liquid ran down her throat.

"Hmm..mmmm." She moaned. "This is really good."

Leaning back on his chair, Darach appraisingly looked at Rey, and then he said.

"It's an ancient Iridonian recipe. I'm glad you like it."

"Is that where you are from?" Rey inquired, also closely appraising Darach.

"Yes, my Lady." He politely replied.

Scoffing, Rey murmured. "Please don't call me like that. I'm no Lady."

"Then how would you like me to call you?" He asked with a smile.

"Call me Rey." She replied also smiling.

"I saw you the other day in the Arena." He asked, looking into her wide eyes. "The Zabrak, is he your mate?"

Taking a deep breath, and then letting out a shaky sigh, she said.

"Yes, he is."

Crossing his arms in front of him, Darach asked. "Do you love him?"

With teary eyes, Rey replied.

"Yes."

Looking into her upset and frustrated face Darach understood what she felt. A long time ago he knew that special feeling as well. However, it had been so long that he didn't want to dwell on those times if he could help it.

"He and his brother, they're very strong and capable individuals. I can assure you, they will survive here." Darach said, trying to make Rey feel at more ease.

"But for how long?" She asked with apprehension.

"I can't tell you the future." Darach replied. "But I've been here long enough to know who will survive and who will fall. Your friends seem to be extremely skillful in staying alive."

Taking another sip, she asked.

"How long have you been here?"

"A long time." Darach replied with a sorrowful face. "Too long."

"Did they trick you coming here or did they force you?" Rey pressed on.

Shaking his horned head Darach wasn't keen to talk about his past. He was never a social person and he always liked to keep things to himself. He never befriended anyone, fearing he would only lose them on the next fight. If he did have friends, they would describe him as a lonely, quiet and extremely clear-headed person.

However, with Rey he felt at ease. She seemed like a nice person. Even though she belonged with the higher-ups, and he was not supposed to mingle with her, for some unexplained reason he wanted her to stay and he wanted to talk to her. There was that sensation of unmistakable great power that he was able to pick up, as he looked at her sitting across from him.

"No, I wasn't tricked or forced." He started. "At that time I was stationed at Korriban."

"Korriban?" Rey asked.

"That planet is cursed." He said with distaste. Then he continued. "We were attacked. I almost lost my apprentice, but she managed to escape. I, on the other hand, I stayed and fought."

Staring at the table, he looked lost in thought.

"What happened?" Rey inquired, seeing his crestfallen expression.

"First time in my life I was defeated. As I was lying on the ship's floor barely clinging to life, I swore to myself that I would never be that weak and foolish, the way I was that night." Looking up, his eyes met Rey's. The look on his face was the same he had in the Arena not too long ago.

"I was found by the First Order and brought to Supreme Leader Snoke."

Leaning forward, Rey placed her empty mug on the table, and then she asked.

"What did he do to you?"

"He saved my life." Darach replied.

"But he also forced you to stay here." Rey said with slight anger. "As a prisoner to fight his little games."

"Indeed he did." Darach replied, then he looked at her empty mug and as he reached for it Rey grabbed hold of his hand and gazing into his eyes, she said in a firm tone.

"I will end him and all his precious little games once and for all."

Staring at her hand, he asked.

"And how will you do that?"

Reassuringly squeezing his hand, she said.

"Like this."

Sudden electricity rushed through Darach's hand. For a second it felt like a lightning strike had hit him hard, taking his breath away for a few seconds. Looking at her with frightened eyes, he tried to pull his hand out of hers, however her grip was surprisingly firm as she kept holding onto him. The immense power she had cast upon him, almost made him lose consciousness. Staring into her eyes, Darach noticed her eye color had changed from hazel to bright red. Just like a Sith Lord, Darach thought with amazement. Then something strange happened. The power socket on his collar that he wore for close to a decade now, suddenly shorted out.

Letting him go, she leaned back on her chair and started to laugh.

Instantly, his hands shot to the back of his collar. With astonishment, Darach looked at her and with utter disbelief he asked.

"What have you done?"

When she stopped laughing, with an ironical tone, she said to him.

"I just did something that I was bred to do."

"What are you talking about?" Darach asked as he quickly sprung up.

"Oh please." Rey beamed at him. "Stay seated. I'm not here to hurt you. On the contrary, I'm here to help you."

"But you could have killed me?" Darach's accusing eyes penetrated into her now hazel eyes again.

"Yes, I could have, but I did not." Rey replied with a more serious face. Then she added. "Now, see if you are able to use the Force."

Taking a deep breath, he summoned the Force. Extending his arm, and with ease, he lifted up the table.

The happiness that was written on his face was marvelous. Placing the table down, he rushed to her and after picking her up; he planted a kiss on her cheeks. Letting her go, he looked at her and asked.

"How are you able to do this?"

"While I was out there alone tonight, Rey replied, I wanted to die. But as I stood on the ledge, a sudden realization hit me. If I'm a product of this great experiment, instead of throwing everything away in haste, I wanted to embrace it and use it against the ones they afflicted it upon me. So I did embrace it and it felt good."

Looking down on her hands, she called upon a small electrical spark that quickly shot out of her hands and shoved the mug of the table.

"I'm still new to this and I'm not sure how can I control it, but with time I will." Rey said with a smile.

"What did you feel when you did that?" Darach inquired, searching her eyes.

"First I felt total calmness, then a feeling of rage and emptiness took over me." Rey said. Then she added. "But I was still in control of my emotions. It feels strange, and powerful at the same time." With a sly smile she said. "It feels good."

"What are your plans?" Darach asked, hoping she would be able to break this vicious cycle of the pit fights for good.

"I know one thing." Rey said. "I can't do this alone. I need your help."

Placing his hands on her arms, he reassuringly said. "Rey, you can count on me."

In the wee hours of the morning, unnoticed, Darach dropped her off at the casino. Quickly making her way toward her room, in a matter of minutes, she reached her door.

Swiftly she opened the door and locked it behind.

"Where were you?" Kylo Ren's agitated voice called out from the dimness of her room.

"What are you doing here?" Rey asked, quickly locating him, sitting in the chair in front of her window.

Ignoring her question, he asked again.

"Where were you….Rey?"

Sudden anxiety enveloped her body. She knew she had to make up a lie, and do it quickly before he gets suspicious.

"I wanted to be left alone, so I decided to take one of the vehicles and drive up to the surface." Rey explained, hoping he won't probe into her little adventure furthermore.

"Without your shoes?" He cynically asked as he tossed her sandals in front of her feet.

Looking at her sandals, she said.

"I can't stand to wear them. They are uncomfortable."

"And what were you doing up there?" He asked, pointing toward the ceiling.

"I was just admiring the view." Rey nervously replied, stepping from one foot to the other.

Standing up, Kylo Ren approached Rey. Gazing into her eyes, he said in a low voice.

"Please Rey, next time do not run away like that. I understand lately there has been a lot happening and it may have took its toll on you. But please, let me in so I can ease your pain. You don't have to do this alone. As you said before, you were here for me, and I am here for you as well."

Quickly avoiding his stare, she looked toward the bathroom and said.

"I am extremely tired and need to take a shower. If you don't mind, I would like you to leave."

"Of course, go ahead and take a shower, however, I'm going to stay here with you tonight." Kylo Ren replied.

"What?' Rey exclaimed. "Why?"

"From now on until our wedding day, I will keep an eye on you. I want you to be with me at all times." He explained as Rey's eyes grew wider with astonishment.

"Why are you doing this?" She asked dumbfounded. She just couldn't believe how possessive he had become lately. This transformation was a scary thing to watch. She didn't understand why he was doing this. Unless she thought with amusement, he doesn't trust the twins being here.

"And you were going to sleep where?" She asked annoyed.

Pulling up one of his eyebrows, with a sly smile he said.

"The bed is large enough for both of us." Then he quickly added. "Don't worry, I'm a gentleman."

It was late and Rey was just too tired to fight him. Reluctantly she agreed and walked into her bathroom, locking the door behind.

When she was done with the shower, she quickly wrapped herself into her robe. Stepping into the bedroom, she noticed he was already in bed, wearing a black sleeveless top, showing off his pale, muscular arms.

Swiftly, she made her way toward her walk-in closet. After getting dressed, she opened the closet door and walked up to the bed.

She looked very pretty in her dark gray nightgown, Kylo Ren thought excitingly watching her getting into bed with him.

Pulling the covers up to her chest, she looked at him and with a trace of irony in her voice, she asked.

"Are you happy now?"

"Actually I am." He said with a smile.

Laying his head down on his pillow, he looked at her and gestured her to do the same.

Facing him, she also laid her head down and looking into his satisfied face she said.

"Goodnight….Ben."

A shadow of amazement passed his face. Reaching out and gently touching her arm, he said in a hushed tone.

"Sweet dreams….princess."

Closing her eyes, Rey tuned out everything around her and after a few minutes, she was fast asleep.

It had been a while since he had shared a bed with a woman. He wished he could pull her closer and hold her, but it will happen very soon, he eagerly thought, watching her sleep. Then, closing his eyes, he also fell asleep dreaming about their future.

The next day they all gathered in the Arena. While Kylo Ren announced the midday fight, Rey's mind was in turmoil. How will she able to communicate with Darach and come up with a plan to escape?

Beside Rey sat Emperor Valkorion's daughter, Vaylin. Her long, dark hair was set in a simple braid, while her crimson eyes gazed at the back of Kylo Ren. Again, her brothers were nowhere to be seen, which made Rey somewhat happy. Her father sat right beside Snoke and his lovely wife Senya took a seat beside her husband.

As Kylo Ren announced the competitors of the next game, a sudden excited roar from the audience enveloped the Arena's ground.

Lost in thoughts, Rey turned toward Vaylin and asked. "What is going on?"

"Where have you been?" Vaylin mockingly asked looking into Rey's eyes. Then with a frown, she said. "The usual from my dear brothers."

"Your brothers?" Rey asked incredibly.

Turning her attention back to Kylo Ren, Vaylin replied with slight anger.

"Father always allows them to compete in the pit. However, he would never allow me, even though I'm just as powerful as them."

"Your brothers are going to fight in the pit today?" Rey asked with disbelief. She had no idea, how powerful they were, but if they were allowed to fight every time, it meant only one thing, Rey thought in horror; they were defeating their opponents.

Without thinking, Rey sprung up and quickly approached Kylo Ren.

Standing beside him, she looked down to see an older Jedi with a younger one standing in the fighting pit. A sudden relief coursed through her body. This was the first time she was happy not to see Maul or Savage. Then her eyes landed on Kylo Ren, looking at her with curiosity.

"Eager aren't we?" Kylo Ren asked trying to be funny. But as her face stayed grim, he quickly looked away and waited for the chest to arrive.

While one of the soldiers brought over the chest, Rey's attention focused on the ground watching the two Jedi. Instantly, she felt great worry for them, but mostly for the younger one. His life will end today and that thought almost brought tears to her eyes.

After the chest arrived, Kylo Ren rummaged through it and found the two lightsabers he was looking for. Placing them on the rim of the balconies railing, he looked up and signaled the guards to open up the other door that led to the Arena's ground.

As soon as the large double doors opened, the Emperor's twins steadily walked in holding their weapons in hand. Stopping beside the two Jedi, they curiously sized them up and then looking up, their eyes landed on Kylo Ren and then on Rey.

Picking up the lightsabers, Kylo Ren tossed them to the Jedi. The older one swiftly grabbed it, but the younger one didn't reach it in time and dropped in front of his boots. This made the crowd laugh loudly and squeal at him.

Hearing the crowd's mocking response, made Rey want to lash out and silence them all, but she knew that was pointless. What can I do all by myself? She angrily asked herself tightly clutching the railing.

"Let the games begin!" Kylo Ren shouted.

When Rey's eyes met Arcann's again, he cracked a wicked smile, and then he winked at her. Then turning toward the opponents, and activating his weapon, he and his brother were ready to start the fight.

These two look like easy prey, Arcann thought with distaste. Then looking up, for a second, his eyes met Kylo Ren's. A smug frown appeared on his face looking down on Arcann.

Turning his attention back to the two Jedi, Arcann didn't want to waste time waiting on them to make the first move. Quickly spinning his bright yellow lightsaber, with full force, he attacked the older Jedi.

While both brothers were slashing at the two Jedi, Rey's pulse quickened seeing them fight. The brothers moved in perfect unison, creating an unstoppable power couple. Watching them, Rey now understood why their sister had said they always win.

The one with the black outfit attacked Kenobi again. His swift, hard blows were hard to evade. He looked to be about the same age, but his fighting technique was more efficient than Kenobi's. Over the years, Kenobi has learned plenty of techniques, but not being able to use the Force made it much harder to stay on top. Even though his opponent did not utilize his Force powers, he was not someone to take lightly.

Then his eyes landed on his Master as he diligently fought back from the other one. A couple of times, he even seemed like he was getting the upper hand. However, the brothers were younger and in better condition than his Master. Eventually, one of them proceeded to knock him down. As Qui-Gon Jinn fell on his back, the twin in white swiftly landed on top of him and raised his weapon high.

With frightened eyes, Kenobi helplessly watched as his Master was about to be killed. Quickly pushing on the twin in black, Kenobi managed to get away from him as he sped toward his Master.

However, his great efforts were fruitless, as he witnessed his Master being stabbed through the heart.

"NOOOOOOO!" Kenobi's painful shouting echoed through the Arena. At the same time, the crowd's excited ear-splitting screams and whistling rang in Rey's ears. She felt sick to her stomach. She wanted to turn away, but she just couldn't bring herself to do that. The young Jedi was still alive, but for how long? Rey desperately thought.

With pleading eyes, she looked at Kylo Ren and begged.

"Please, stop this madness now."

With a faint frown, he looked at her and said.

"I can't do that." Then he added. "Even if I wanted to I'm not able to do that. Only the Supreme Leader can stop this. These are his rules."

"Then I'll ask him myself." Rey said with determination. But before she had the chance to turn and leave, he grabbed hold of her arm and said.

"He won't bend for you."

"We'll see about that." Rey spat at him. Then pulling her arm out of his grip, she approached Snoke.

Standing in front of him, she looked him in the eyes and composing herself she spoke up.

"Please, just once, stop this game."

"And why should I do that?" Snoke deep, raspy voice mockingly asked.

"Because I'm begging you." With gritted teeth, Rey pleaded.

"And because of your petty pleadings, do you think I will comply?" Snoke asked. Gesturing with his long arms, he added. "Look around you, my dear. Do you see this?"

Not wanting to look around, Rey kept her eyes fixated on him. Then he continued.

"This is what they all want. This is what they all crave for. Do you think I'm going to strip away this satisfaction from them?" He asked, intently gazing into her accusing eyes.

Rey sensed he wasn't going to comply with her pleading. Sudden anger like fire engulfed her body. She felt like she was burning on the inside. Swallowing hard and with clenched fists, she turned around and rushing past Kylo Ren she jumped over the balcony. Landing on her feet, she looked straight at the amazed twins and the remaining Jedi.

While the crowd shouted with excitement, Rey extended her arm and called the older Jedi's lightsaber to her. As soon as the weapon landed in her hand, she quickly kicked off her high heel boots and ripped open the bottom of her dress to be able to move freely.

"Get back up here NOW!" Kylo Ren's angry voice called down from above.

Realizing that she was ignoring him, he turned back toward his Master only to see him shaking his head in disagreement. With wide eyes, Kylo Ren accusingly looked at his Master. He wanted to disobey him and jump after her, but he was his Master and he had to obey his wish even though he disagreed with it.

Swiftly turning around, he looked down and noticed Rey had already reached the young Jedi. Then he saw movement from the corner of his eye. Placing her pale, long fingers on the railing, Vaylin looked down and then to Kylo Ren. With a sweet but smug voice, she said.

"Interesting fiancé you've gotten there. Too bad, she might not survive today's fight."

Ignoring her rude comment, Kylo Ren's attention focused on Rey again. While his pulse accelerated, he hoped the twins were smart enough not to hurt her. Otherwise, he would have no choice but to disobey his Master, and he knew exactly what the consequences of that were. With worried eyes, he watched Rey, as she stood beside the young Jedi.

"Stay behind me." Rey ordered the astonished Kenobi.

"What are you doing?" Arcann called to Rey.

"Teaching both of you a lesson." Rey mockingly replied looking from one twin to the other.

Pointing his weapon toward Kenobi, Arcann said.

"He is mine."

"Over my dead body." Rey snarled.

"Over your body, right?" Arcann teasingly said as his eyes hungrily roamed over Rey. With a mischievous grin, he added. "We'll see about that."

Igniting her newly acquired weapon, Rey firmly held the green lightsaber in her hands. Then with a powerful battle cry, she attacked the twins.

Following her lead, Kenobi also attacked them as well.

Rey's weapon quickly collided with Thexan's lightsaber, enveloping the area with a high-pitched electrical sound. Then swiftly ducking down, she smacked her heel into his left shin, making him cry out in anger and pain. In a split second she sprung up and as she turned around her heel found its way into Thexan's groin area, knocking the air out of him for a few seconds.

As Thexan tried to recuperate from his injury, Arcann quickly force pushed Kenobi away, sending him flying across the Arena's ground. When the young Jedi was incapacitated, he then focused his full attention on Rey.

So, that is how you want to play this game? He thought with anticipation.

Gesturing her to come closer, he was waiting on her to make a move.

Spinning her weapon in front of her, Rey steadied herself. Tearing her eyes away from Kenobi's unconscious body, she looked at Arcann and with a sly smile, she teasingly said.

"Come and get me."

"With pleasure." Arcann replied with a devilish grin.

As he rushed toward her, the excited crowd screamed with pleasure and amazement.

Then Rey noticed Thexan was also heading her way. Unlike his brother, his face showed no excitement but instead anger and frustration. Arcann was the first to reach Rey. Swinging his weapon, he quickly collided with hers. Then pushing back on her, he leaned forward. When his face was only inches away from hers, he sent a mocking kiss toward her, making Rey recoil in shock.

What's wrong with this one? Rey asked herself, quickly spinning around, getting away from him. Then as she lifted her arm up, her weapon forcefully collided with Thexan's, making her arm tremble under his attack.

Realizing she may have taken too much on, taking both men on at the same time, she quickly called for Kenobi's lightsaber, which immediately landed in her left hand.

Having two weapons helped her to be more efficient against them while evading their attacks. However, she felt that they were both holding back.

Of course, they don't want to hurt me, she thought annoyed, while she put most of her strength into her moves.

But I can still hurt them, Rey thought as darkness started to take over her rational mind. But before she was going to make her powerful move, she stopped herself.

No, she thought with despair. If I reveal my true self, my plans to save Maul and Savage and to escape would not be accomplished as I had thought out.

Stepping back and lowering her weapons, she threw them on the ground in front of the twin's boots. However, none of them made a move on her. Deactivating his weapon, Arcann placed it on his belt. Stepping closer, he looked down on Rey's calm face and as he gestured toward Kenobi, he asked.

"Tell me, princess, what should we do with him?"

Breathing shallow, she looked from him to his twin, who still held his weapon ready to carry out his brother's wishes.

Gazing into Arcann's piercing eyes, Rey took a deep breath and said.

"Mercy…. please."

Grazing his lower lips with his teeth, and letting out a deep sigh, Arcann bowed his head and said.

"Anything for you…. my princess."

Signaling to his brother, Thexan also deactivated his weapon. Turning toward the crowd and lifting his arms up, Thexan's deep voice boomed over the Arena.

"Mercy!"

Then he shouted again.

"Mercy!"

Immediately, many from the crowd shouted the same word over and over again.

"Mercy!" They all shouted in unison. "Mercy!"

Soon the whole Arena was pleading for mercy. Pleading for the life of young Kenobi.

Turning around, the pleased Kylo Ren looked at his Master and was waiting on his commands.

Nodding his head, Snoke signaled to his apprentice. Turning back to the crowd, Kylo Ren lifted up his right hand and gave thumbs up, showing everyone, the Supreme Leader's exceptional decision.

Extremely loud cheers and whistling drifted up from the satisfied crowd. Looking around, Rey's eyes landed on the still unconscious Jedi, and then on Darach, who came in with a few guards to collect the fallen ones. Acknowledging her with a small smile, he quickly ordered his men to collect the two men. When he approached Rey to pick up the weapons, she stopped him and said.

"I will give it to him."

Nodding his head, he turned and left the Arena's grounds followed by his guards.

Picking up the weapons, Arcann handed them to Rey. As she took it from him, his fingers lightly brushed against hers. With a solemn face, he said.

"You are too generous, but also strong. One day you might make an exceptional Empress."

Furrowing her eyebrows Rey looked at him. It was a strange thing for him to say, she thought confused.

Leaving the fighting pit, Rey walked back to the balcony. Walking past Kylo Ren, she approached Snoke.

Sitting beside Snoke, the Emperor's deep blue eyes intently and curiously sized Rey up. Then his attention landed on his sons standing behind Rey.

Placing the Jedi's weapons in front of Snoke, she said.

"Allow me to tend to his injuries…grandfather."

With an unpleasant face, Snoke replied.

"And why would you want to do that?"

"Because that is the right thing to do." Rey replied staring into his blank face.

"You have too much of your mother in you." Snoke said, dismissing Rey.

To hear about her mother from him was not something she wanted to hear right now.

Turning her back at him, she started to walk away, when he added.

"That will be corrected soon."

Ignoring his words, she kept walking.

Standing at the railing, Kylo Ren was about to follow Rey, when his eyes met Snoke's. Shaking his head, Snoke signaled him to let her go.

As she finally left the balcony, Rey let out a huge sigh of relief. She needed to be alone for this little trip. Her fast steps quickly took her down below where the prisoners were kept. Not worrying about the curious looks or her ragged appearance, she made her way toward the infirmary.

"She is a….kick...ass." Kenobi slurred as he came to.

"Who are you talking about?" Maul asked as he helped Darach tend to the young Jedi's injuries.

Lifting up one of his arms, Kenobi said.

"Your better half."

Suddenly, Maul's hands grabbed hold of his neck. As he squeezed, he angrily said.

"Speak clearly or I will finish the job."

"Maul." Darach said, peeling his arms off Kenobi. "Let him be. I'll explain it to you."

When Darach finished, Maul looked at him with shock. Then before he could have asked a question, the infirmary door opened and Rey walked in.

Quickly walking up to Kenobi, and as she sent a sweet smile to Maul, she said in a hurry.

"I only have a few minutes. Let me do this."

Grabbing hold of his hand, she watched as his eyes opened wide when the pure electrical charge entered his already battered body. With an accusing and fearful expression, he looked at Rey, whose eyes turned bright red, staring straight into his soul. Kenobi tightly clutched down on the side of the bed and tried not to scream as the pain slowly increased. He wanted to ask why she was doing this, but no sound escaped his gaping mouth.

Then within a few seconds, his collar also shortened out, letting him free of his chains.

As soon as she finished with him, Rey turned to Maul and pressing her lips to his, she embraced him as the electricity painfully rushed through him like wildfire rushing through dried out woods. A mixture of pain and pleasure engulfed his body, as he tightly held onto her. After a few seconds of passionate kissing, his collar also shortened out, leaving Maul now free to go.

Then he heard her voice in his dazed head.

Please, Maul, wait for my signal. And then we will be free.

Letting him go, she nodded her head toward Darach, and then swiftly she left the room.

"Lucky you." Kenobi said with a forced smile, as he tried to shift his beat-up body on the bed. Then his expression turned sorrowful.

"They killed him." He mumbled as tears swelled in his eyes.

"What has just happened?" Maul asked still amazed staring at the closed door.

"Something that I haven't experienced in a while." Darach replied with a wink. Then he added. "I need to talk to you and your brother. I'll come by later to your cell."

Looking down on his hands, Maul felt the power of the Force swiftly rushing through him. This special sensation was what he truly needed now. He could have crushed anything at this moment, he eagerly thought. But then her words came to his mind and he slowly calmed himself down. He was certain, she had a plan and he couldn't wait till it was executed.

It was the morning of her wedding and still, there was no word from her father. Even though he was invited, he hasn't shown up yet and Rey had a peculiar feeling about his absence. Somehow she knew not to trust him, but thinking about today excited her. Not because she was getting married to Kylo Ren, but because she had planned for their escape.

The wheels were already in motion. She was certain; today will be crazier than usual around here. They just had to wait for the right moment and this place with its people will be history. Every single prisoner will be freed and that thought brought a smile to Rey's face.

Everything is going to be okay, she thought reassuringly as she turned and looked at Kylo Ren peacefully sleeping beside her. His dark hair was all messed up sticking to his forehead, while one of his arms was neatly tucked beneath his head. He looks cute, she thought with disheartenment. She still hasn't decided what will happen to him.

She knew he was loyal to Snoke, but she also knew he loved her and to choose between his Master and her, she truly hoped he will choose the latter. Even though nothing has happened between them, or ever will happen, she thought, watching him sleep, she still liked him and would want him to be a possible ally to fight against her father if need be. However, there was Maul and she was certain, he didn't want to do anything with him. Hopefully, I can persuade him, Rey thought with worry. However, there was another disturbing thought that came to her mind. It was the Emperor and his family.

Since their arrival, Rey slowly started to get to know them. They seemed polite and friendly, but Rey was no fool. She saw right through them. They made her nervous and gave her a peculiar feeling deep inside and Rey hated this feeling. The daughter, Vaylin was definitely the most dangerous one, after the father. The mother, Rey was not certain about, but the twins also disturbed her thoughts. Thankfully since their fight, Rey barely ran into them, which she was glad about. Maybe Ben sensed it too and that is why he wanted to spend the nights here? She thought with a frown, to keep me safe?

Shifting on the bed, she turned away from him and slowly got up. After her shower, she walked back into the room and heard a knock on the door.

Cracking the door open, she looked outside to see Shae standing in the corridor holding a large duffle bag.

"Good morning." Shae beamed at Rey. "May I come in?"

"Good morning." Rey replied with a big yawn. Then she quickly added. "Did you get it?"

"Yes, of course, days ago." Shae replied. Then she asked. "Is he still…"

But before she could have finished her sentence, Rey swiftly cut in.

"Yes, he is." Then she added. "Please let's keep this between us, okay?"

Rey wasn't happy to tell Shae about him sleeping with her, however, she needed to get the keys from his room, and for that very reason, Rey had no choice but to tell her. Even though she assured her about their platonic sleeping arrangements, Rey was still skeptical about her knowing this. She might not believe her, and Rey wasn't ready to explain this to Maul if for some reason he found out. "No need to come in. Just leave this here with me. I'm able to get ready by myself."

"Are you sure?" Shae asked, trying to peek inside the room.

"I'm certain." Rey replied and then grabbed the bag out of her hands. Quickly saying thank you, she closed the door.

Putting the bag down, she opened it and saw a large box wrapped in deep purple silk. Taking it out, she opened it to see a white and silver fused silk dress with matching silver heels. There was an envelope addressed to her beneath the dress. Lifting it up, Rey opened it and with a frown, she read the contents of the letter.

When she finished reading, she looked at the dress and took it out of the box. The silky material felt extremely soft beneath her fingers. The dress looked fairly expensive and Rey's mind was in turmoil about it.

Why would she send this to me? Rey thought with confusion. She knew she had to wear something special for today's occasion, but why would she have to wear the Emperor's wife's wedding dress? The gift was beautiful, but still, it left Rey wondering.

As she contemplated her wedding gift, she heard Kylo Ren's raspy voice.

"What is that?" He asked sitting up, rubbing the sleepiness out of his eyes.

"A gift from the Emperor's wife." Rey replied, showing him the dress.

"A gift huh?" Kylo Ren asked. Then he added. "You know it's considered to be bad luck to see the bride or her dress before the wedding."

"Why would you say that?" Rey anxiously asked.

"Never mind." He said with a sly grin. "It's for superstitious people and luckily I'm not one of them."

Seeing Rey holding her wedding dress in front of her was a perfect picture to wake up to. He couldn't wait till tonight when they were properly married and finally he was going to be able to have her. That thought gave him a rush of excitement. Getting out of bed, and trying to cover up his excitement, he headed for the bathroom.

When he was done, and after getting dressed, he approached Rey and lifting up her chin, he looked into her worried eyes and said.

"I have to go to get dressed properly. I'll see you soon."

Planting a quick kiss on her lips, he left the room, leaving the anxious Rey alone.

It was almost midday when they came for her. Opening the door, she found herself face to face with four members of the Knights of Ren. After leaving her bedchamber, they escorted her to the Arena, where the ceremony was about to take place.

As soon as she entered the balcony, she noticed many guests had already taken their seats, waiting for the ceremony to begin. Among the guests were the Emperor and his wife and daughter sitting in the front row. His twin sons took the back row, intently watching Rey's every move.

Looking over the railing she saw Maul and Savage with the other prisoners standing still watching in silence. For a split second, her eyes met Maul's. His piercing yellow eyes dangerously gazed upon her. Then he slightly bowed his head, showing her he was ready.

Surrounded by his loyal red guards Snoke sat in his chair accompanied by a man in a deep burgundy robe, standing beside him. He must be the chaplain, Rey thought, watching his pale, liver-spotted wide forehead. In front of the man stood Kylo Ren all dressed up in his black uniform.

His face looked composed, but Rey knew better, as she looked at his gloved hands curled into tight fists. He is nervous, Rey thought. Then she heard Snoke.

"As customs dictates, your father should be the one who walks you down the aisle. Because of his absence, we have no choice but to break with tradition."

Looking at Rey he continued.

"My dearest friend and guest, Emperor Valkorion has offered to give you away."

As soon as he said that, the Emperor stood up and approached Rey. A flicker of a smile crossed his stern face, as Rey looked upon him. With a low voice, he said.

"You look beautiful. This dress fits you perfectly."

Swallowing hard, Rey laced her arm into his and then he started to walk with her closer to the waiting groom.

She is the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen, Kylo Ren thought with awe, watching Rey. He felt restless and unusually nervous as she was handed to him.

There was no music or anything special beyond the usual. On the contrary, it was eerily quite as her hand was placed into Kylo Ren's. This wedding is nothing in comparison to the one on Dathomir, Rey sourly thought.

Holding her hand, he led her on the podium in front of Snoke.

Nodding his head toward the chaplain, Snoke signaled him to start the ceremony.

Standing in front of the bride and groom, the old man started to speak. His raspy voice carried over the balcony.

"Today is a very special day. We are here to witness this man and woman entering into a contract of marriage. The Force and the Makers will bless their matrimony. Through their unity, a promising future will arise for all."

Then his dark eyes scanned the crowd and continued.

"If there is anyone who would oppose this wedding, please speak up now or hold your tongue forever."

Hearing his words made Rey cringe for a second. She hoped Maul would stay put and not do anything reckless. However, the voice that loudly spoke up was not Maul's but one of the twins, Arcann's.

"I do oppose!" He yelled.

Instantly, everybody turned and looked toward him.

Standing in the back with his brother, Arcann looked at Snoke and then he shouted.

"You can't marry her to this nobody! She was promised to me and my brother!"

A sudden confusion enveloped the crowd. But when Rey looked at the Emperor and his family, she noticed they sat there completely calm. Like they knew this was going to happen, Rey thought with astonishment. Then her eyes landed on Kylo Ren. The disbelief and rage on his face were palpable.

Lifting up his hand, Snoke signaled to everyone to calm down. Then he addressed Arcann.

"And who promised her to you?"

Stepping out of line, the twins stood side by side and drew their weapons.

"Her father, Emperor Palpatine!" Arcann shouted, igniting his weapon.

Immediately, the uneventful ceremony was engulfed with pure chaos.

To be continued...