Skywalker's rule the galaxy

VII

Imperial Star Destroyer Resolute - Hyperspace

The tension aboard the Resolute was palpable. Anakin Skywalker, Emperor of the Galactic Empire, paced restlessly across the bridge, his thoughts consumed with worry for his family. Every second that passed felt like an eternity. He could still hear Padmé's voice from their interrupted comm call, and the image of her face lingered in his mind. He replayed their conversation, trying to convince himself that she was safe, that her Royal Guards would protect her and the twins, but the nagging fear in his heart wouldn't dissipate.

"Status report," Anakin barked, his voice betraying the strain he was under.

Admiral Yularen, standing at attention, responded immediately. "We're making maximum speed, Your Majesty. We'll arrive at Naboo within the hour."

Anakin nodded but said nothing. He gazed out into the swirling vortex of hyperspace, his mind reaching out through the Force, searching for any trace of Padmé. He could sense her presence, but it was faint and distant, like a whisper in the wind. It wasn't enough to calm him.

He clenched his fists, fighting the urge to lash out. He had been through too much to lose her now. The fear of something happening to Padmé or the twins was more terrifying than facing any enemy. He had lost her once, and the galaxy had paid a steep price for that loss. He wouldn't let it happen again.

"Emperor," Admiral Yularen spoke again, cautiously. "We've received a new transmission from Naboo."

Anakin spun around, his heart pounding. "Play it."

A hologram flickered to life, displaying Captain Caine of the Executor. The officer's face was grave. "Your Majesty, the enemy fighter has been identified as an old Jedi starfighter, heavily modified. We've been unable to track the pilot's identity, but we believe it could be a rogue Jedi or someone affiliated with the old Republic. The craft has been shot down, but the pilot survived and is on the run. Her Majesty and the Royal Family have been moved to a secure location within the forest. We have troops in pursuit of the intruder."

Anakin's eyes narrowed. "A Jedi starfighter?" His mind raced with possibilities. There were few who could pilot such a craft and survive its destruction, especially against the might of the Empire. "Do we know the pilot's capabilities?"

"Not yet, Your Majesty. But the fact that they've evaded capture so far suggests they're skilled—possibly even Force-sensitive."

Anakin's jaw tightened. If this was a Jedi, they were in serious danger. "Keep me updated on all developments. And inform me the moment you have any news on Padmé and the twins."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Captain Caine responded before the transmission ended.

Anakin turned back to the viewport. The shadows in his heart stirred. The possibility of facing a rogue Jedi didn't frighten him; he had defeated countless Jedi before. But this was different. This enemy had targeted his family, which Anakin would not tolerate. His hands trembled slightly, and he tightened them into fists, feeling the Dark Side's cold, familiar embrace.

But he pushed the darkness away, refusing to let it consume him. He had to stay focused. He had to stay in control.

"Admiral," Anakin said, his voice hardening, "prepare my shuttle for immediate departure upon our arrival. I'm going down to the surface myself."

Admiral Yularen hesitated for only a moment. "Of course, Your Majesty. It will be ready."

As the Resolute hurtled through hyperspace, Anakin prepared himself for what lay ahead. He had to protect Padmé, to ensure the safety of their children. He wouldn't let anything stand in his way.