'Okay I've been dying to ask this ever since I first arrived at the palace. What is up with the glove? Is it real? I mean, did you really lose your hand? Or is it an attempt to impress your scary girlfriend?' Kei asked as they moved through the secret halls that were conveniently open for their use.

Anakin scowled deeply and stopped in mid-step as he whirled around to face Kei. 'An attempt to impress Dormé? What is wrong with you?' he hissed as he promptly unbuckled and removed the glove revealing the metallic form where his hand had once been.

'I lost my hand fighting against a Sith lord, Kei. Is that real enough for you?' Anakin snapped as Kei's eyes fell to the metallic hand. The nobleman looked visibly impressed and couldn't resist an impressed grin.

'So did you win?' he asked obviously eager to learn of the results of Anakin's battle.

The young prince however was less than eager to share the results and just sighed in reply as he returned the glove to his metal hand. 'You'd do better to ask Dormé about that,' he muttered as he guided Kei through the winding hidden hallways.

Kei's curiosity was only piqued now and he couldn't resist snickering. 'Oh I see now. You lost didn't you? So did Dormé have to step in and save the day? I bet she did, didn't she? Is that how you two made up?' Kei asked eagerly as Anakin rolled his eyes which only encouraged the young nobleman all the more. 'Oh goddess, that is what happened, isn't it?' he crowed. He burst out in laughter.

Anakin, having about enough, drew his lightsaber and threatened to activate it at Kei who immediately stopped his laughter. 'Not another word, Kei,' he hissed as Kei raised his hands in mock surrender.

'Okay, okay, no need to lose your cool,' he said quickly as the memory of being pinned to the wall was still fresh in his mind.

The prince promptly turned and continued to lead the way. 'Dormé was captured by a man named Count Dooku. It turns out he was a Sith Lord and when I tried to rescue her—' Anakin began before Kei interrupted.

'Oh that was you who saved the queen!' Kei snickered, 'Who would have thought! So Dormé was with her when they were captured? And you came to rescue her and the queen?'

The young prince realising his mistake just gave a nod. 'Something like that,' he began, 'but when I tried to rescue her, things kinda got complicated,' the young prince concluded as he moved to activate another door that would lead them to the main living quarters of the handmaidens. It was his hope that Dormé would have completed her duties for the afternoon and perhaps be returning soon. However, before he had a chance to open the door, the younger nobleman was speaking up forcing Anakin to pause and give him a withering look.

This did little to stop Kei who was dying for more details of this little adventure. 'So this Sith Lord—whatever that is—basically lobbed off your hand and then what?' Kei whispered.

Anakin gave a heavy sigh as he glared at his colleague. 'Kei, I'll tell you later. Right now, I have to get my wife back, all right?'

Kei rolled his eyes as he made a face. 'She isn't going to disappear in two minutes, princess. Or are you that embarrassed about the fact I know you failed your rescue mission when everyone else thinks your a hero?' he taunted as Anakin's eyes narrowed and his temperament grew stormy.

'I didn't fail, you fool! I did return with Dormé, didn't I? And the queen,' he quickly added. 'I just lost my hand that's all.'

Kei gave a bratty grin as he folded his arms. 'Your sweet, but scary girlfriend ended up saving you, didn't she?' he said with a knowing grin which only widened at Anakin's burning cheeks. 'Great goddess, she did too!' Kei shouted only to have Anakin slam his gloved hand over the boy's mouth.

'Shut up, you idiot!' he hissed as Kei mumbled something incoherent that Anakin was thankful for his colleagues sake that he didn't hear. The younger man's amusement was quite evident and was doing little to calm Anakin's agitated nerves. Only when Kei fell silent did Anakin remove his hand as he gave him another withering look before moving to open the door a crack and peek out of it.

'I knew it! I just knew you needed your scary ex's help! So is that why you married her? Because she saved your life?' Kei continued quietly as the young prince threw his hand up to reveal a rather inappropriate gesture while his back remained turned away from Kei.

'Okay, now is our chance. Everything looks clear,' Anakin whispered purposely ignoring his compatriot's remarks and snickers. Then without another word, he slipped out of the secret hall and raced towards Dormé's personal quarters, hoping desperately that the handmaiden would be returning soon. And hoping her mentor would not be with her or nearby.

Anakin and Kei waited with some impatience in Dormé's quarters—at Anakin's demand of course—for the handmaiden to return. Anakin could sense Dormé's emotional exhaustion and grew even more eager to return her home where she belonged.

However not wanting to give away their presence to any unsuspecting handmaidens, Kei suggested they keep the lights off in the room. Anakin thought this was a stupid idea and freely expressed it until he sensed someone passing by and promptly turned off the lights himself. Little did he realise it was none other than Ellé who was too distracted with her novel to even care.

Of course had he not been so distracted by his desire to be re-united with his wife, Anakin would have also figured out that Ellé posed no threat. Nevermind the fact that no light could be seen through the bottom and tops of the door. But it was too late and soon, Dormé was entering causing the young prince's heart to soar as he promptly used the Force to cause the lights to brighten.

As soon as she switched the lightsources on, she missed the fact that they flickered slightly as they grew brighter. She barely had a chance to register Anakin's presence before he was bounding over to her.

'Some warning would be nice,' Kei growled from behind him while blinking in an attempt to adjust his sight, as the young prince beamed and moved to embrace Dormé.

'I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner, I tried to contact you but they wouldn't let me talk to you. So I thought I'd take the chance and just come and get you,' he blurted out eagerly.

'Anakin!' she gasped, her face beaming as she reached for him. She hardly caught his words as she exclaimed how happy she was to see him, holding him close. Dormé didn't care about any of that—how long it had taken or that people were trying to prevent them from even speaking to each other—because he was here now. She stood on tiptoe and kissed him before he had a chance to explain his escape plan. Dormé didn't even notice Prince Breemu lurking in the background.

Anakin grinned at Dormé's shocked gasp and swooped her up in his arms as he moved to eagerly kiss her. Though it had only been a few days, it felt like a million years had passed and Anakin eagerly expressed how he missed her through his kiss. Like Dormé, in Anakin's mind Prince Breemu may as well not have even been there.

As for Kei the sight of his best friend making out with his scary girlfriend, mistress, wife, or whatever was not at all what he wanted to be a part of and frowning he averted his gaze. 'Okay that's enough you two! Let's save the celebrations for when your actually alone, all right?' he stated loudly, forcing Anakin's thoughts back to the present.

Frowning, the young prince reluctantly withdrew from their kiss as he motioned without looking at Kei. 'Oh, I forgot Kei's here to help get you out,' he said with a hint of annoyance.

'Glad to see my efforts are appreciated, princess,' Kei snapped back as he rolled his eyes and folded his arms.

It wasn't until Anakin pulled away that she noticed the other boy in the room. She had only seen Prince Breemu a few times over the years, but was always sidetracked by Anakin. She thought the princess comment was directed towards her for having not properly greeted him. 'Your help is much appreciated, Prince Kei,' she said, bowing to the prince, though by all rights, she was now of the same status as Kei and didn't need to bow to him. Dormé wasn't sure of her status, despite Anakin's proclamation earlier about her being a princess because of their marriage. Since his father said it was illegal and she was sent to Naboo, Dormé wasn't sure about much anything anymore, save for her feelings for Anakin and his for her.

Kei's cheeks immediately warmed to Dormé's words and bow, though in his distraction, he didn't register the fact Dormé believed he was referring to her as princess. 'I'm glad I was able to be of service, milady,' Kei replied in shy tones as he gave her a smile.

Despite Kei's attempts to hide it, his crush on Dormé was more than obvious to the Jedi prince who glared at the shy prince. 'I'm sure you are,' Anakin grumbled under his breath before returning his attentions to Dormé once more. 'There is no need for such formalities; you are royalty now. Your subjects bow to you, not the other way around,' Anakin informed her politely before adding with a wink. 'Besides, it's only Kei and he's hardly worthy of that respect,' he teased as Kei made a face and rolled his eyes.

'As if you're any better princess,' he retorted with a smirk. Kei just laughed in reply, hardly fazed by the young prince's threat.

'Call me that again, Kei, and I swear I'll give you a pounding you'll never forget!' Anakin growled in agitation before uttering a curse in Huttese. Anakin purposefully forced himself to ignore Kei's laughter and smart words as he felt Dormé squeeze his hand.

She smiled sincerely at Kei before turning back to Anakin, holding his hand and giving it a squeeze. 'So, what's your plan this time?' she asked mischievously.

The young prince couldn't resist a proud smirk as he moved to kiss her hand. 'The plan is to return you to the royal palace on Coruscant where you belong, Lady Skywalker,' he said as his eyes danced with mischief.

Kei behind them raised a brow and gave a grin as he folded his arms. 'And goddess willing, Lady Dormé, you might not even have to save Princess again! Although—' Kei added while moving to the door quickly to avoid Anakin's temper. 'I've been told I should ask you about the details about that rescue—' he shouted between peels laughter.

Ignoring the playful banter between the two young men, Dormé eagerly asked about the rescue plan. Just as she was about to kiss Anakin on the cheek in response to his mischievous look, Kei said something about rescuing Anakin. 'What are you talking a—' she began, turning curiously to look at the other prince, but Anakin let go of her hand and chased after Kei.

Livid, the Jedi prince growled a series of curses as he moved to chase down Kei to give him the pounding he promised. 'You useless piece of echuta! When I get my hands on your Kei—'

'Anakin!' She went after the two boys, wondering what in the urugal they were arguing about. Just then, she spotted her mentor and gasped in shock. 'Saché!' It would seem this 'rescue' was even more doomed than the first.

Catching Dormé calling out his name, Anakin paused in mid-step and looked back feeling foolish for his sudden boyish course of action. He soon realised this course of action had just prevented him from running into Kei who had, in turn, ploughed into Saché.

Jerking back in shock and staring at the two men in disbelief, Saché asked, 'What in the gods is going on here?' The older handmaiden and stared at Dormé in confused annoyance.

Kei stumbled back and with burning cheeks soon was joining Anakin who had returned to Dormé's side. '...Sorry, milady,' the younger prince mumbled to Saché who just raised a brow before settling her eyes on the cocky Jedi prince who moved to slip an arm around Dormé proudly.

'Don't bother trying to stop us,' Anakin proudly announced as he stared down Saché who now folded her arms and gave a tired sigh.

'Gods help me, dare I ask?' Saché looked between the three of them and glanced away with a groan as she put a hand to her forehead. In the Naboo dialect that marked she was from the northern regions, Saché muttered a prayer for strength.

Everything happened so quickly and Dormé was embarrassed by the turn of events. Saché's disapproval and sigh made Dormé feel even more guilty, though she knew she oughtn't feel this way. With Anakin, she felt that anything was possible, but in the eyes of her mentor, she felt like a child being censured. 'My husband has come to take me back home to Coruscant,' she informed Saché, trying to heed Anakin's words of a few seconds ago: that she was a princess now and no longer had to bow to anyone, let alone follow their rules.

Anakin, on the other hand, was just down right annoyed and ready to face any challenge given. But his temperament soon shifted as he gave a proud smile upon hearing Dormé referring to him as her husband. He was also proud to see that Dormé wasn't bowing to her mentor, marking that she was getting used to her proper title of princess.

Ellé, who was seated not too far away overheard the entire thing and couldn't help snickering.

Kei glanced to the direction of Ellé and felt his cheeks burn even brighter feeling every bit the fool he was.

'You're joking. Then why is Prince Breemu with you? Or do I really want to know?' Saché sarcastically remarked as she raised a brow.

'This is not a joke and Kei's presence is no concern of yours. Now, if you'll excuse us, we have a princess to return to home,' Anakin snapped in clipped tones ignoring Saché's obvious amusement at his words.

Dormé was too busy playing with Anakin's Padawan braid to take notice of Ellé or Kei. When he once again referred to her as a princess, she brushed her nose against his neck, grinning.

Anakin smirked at Dormé's administrations and couldn't resist turning to face her and steal a kiss.

'Your grace, seeing as you're so adamant about running off with one of Queen Amidala's decoys, perhaps you'd do better to go about this properly instead of sneaking about in the shadows,' Saché stated quietly as her eyes flickered to Dormé. The young prince frowned but fell silent as he sensed the older handmaiden was up to something. 'Dormé, I'm not going to say anything to Padmé. But if I'm asked or questioned, I'm telling you right now, I know nothing,' she stated before continuing with a hint of a wry smile and a sigh. 'This goes against all logical reason but I know trying to stop you two from sneaking off is like beating your head against a wall. All you'll end up with is a headache.'

'Oh Saché, I don't care what you tell Padmé,' Dormé said, perfectly beaming because she was in Anakin's arms. Remembering what Anakin said after they were married, she told Saché, 'Give her my formal resignation, if you like,' though she wasn't even looking at her mentor when she said this.

Saché was downright annoyed at the lack of attention she was receiving. At Dormé's words, she rolled her eyes. 'Last I checked, your marriage is not recognised, so if I were you Dormé, I wouldn't burn all of your bridges just yet,' Saché warned her in concern.

'Not yet, but it will be! The emperor even said so himself!' Dormé replied, not liking where this conversation was going. But soon she was pulled into a kiss, which made her forget about why he was here in the first place, let alone that they needed to escape.

Kei was visibly awkward at the sight of his friend making out with Dormé and was careful to avert his eyes.

Saché looked to Kei and just gave a sigh. 'Fine. Seeing these two kissing guyamis are too distracted to bother with reality, here's the plan they ask you can tell them what I said,' Saché concluded before muttering under her breath, 'the things I do for this girl.' Suddenly without warning, Saché suddenly grabbed Anakin by the arm and pulled him away from Dormé. 'Time to go, both of you! If the queen shows up and finds you here it will be both of our heads!' she stated in fierce tones as she glared at Dormé. 'As for you, my dear, you're coming with me and we are going to have a little chat,' she said moving to grab Dormé's arm while Anakin protested loudly, demanding to know under whose authority that he was being forced to leave and demanding to speak to them immediately.

Kei remained quiet throughout the entire thing.

'What? Why?' asked Dormé before looking concernedly at her husband. She thought she wasn't under anyone's authority anymore, but it seemed every time she asserted any type of authority it was ripped away from her. 'Saché, what is this all about?'

'This way all of you,' she stated in harsh tones while half dragging, half guiding a furious Anakin in tow.

'How dare you! You filthy hag! You have no right to keep me away from my wife!'

'No, I don't, your grace, but technically, your marriage isn't recognised either by the Coruscanti or the Naboo, so that means Dormé is still under the service of her majesty. And her majesty has clearly stated that there are to be no visitors of any sort in the handmaiden's wing without her authorization!' Saché shouted to a still arguing at a screaming Anakin. 'That's right, you little brat. You keep just keep yelling,' Saché thought with some amusement. For the first and only time she was grateful to Anakin for his royal hissy-fits as it would make the act more convincing for the both of them. Once they were outside of the handmaiden quarters, she ordered Kei and Anakin to depart and then motioned Dormé into a room nearest to them.

'You can't make me leave! I'm not leaving without my wife!' Anakin argued as he jerked his hand free from Saché's grasp.

'Seeing that you were too busy to bother listening to my words, Prince Skywalker, perhaps Prince Breemu can remind you of them,' Saché stated in agitation before moving to taking Dormé's arm and guiding her into the room.

'What is the meaning of this!' Anakin shouted before Kei shook his head.

'Come on, Anakin, she's right...' he began as the prince stared at him in disbelief.

'What? Whose side are you on anyways?'

Kei just frowned. 'I'll tell you later. Let's go,' he hissed causing the young prince to scowl as he reluctantly parted ways with Dormé.

Being pulled away from her beloved, Dormé saw she didn't have a choice, despite protestations. 'I don't understand,' she said, shaking her head

'I'm coming back. I swear to you, I'm coming back,' he said sadly before glaring at Saché. 'And when I do, I assure you, you will be tossed out into the streets like the beast you are!'

'Anakin—' she began, her throat catching from emotion, feeling as though he was already miles away. She tried reaching for him, but it was to no avail and Saché escorted her into another room.

Saché didn't say another word in reply but raised a brow instead before turning her back on him.

Anakin stared at Dormé in sorrow before being dragged away by Kei who just shook his head. 'Come on, Anakin, there's no point in remaining here...'

The minute they were alone Anakin growled and began to argue with Kei but soon fell silent as his colleague informed him the real reasons they were being summoned away.

'Dormé is going to meet us where we hid the ships Anakin. Lady Saché is just faking it so we wouldn't get caught by that other handmaiden -the one that was laughing at us.' the young nobleman explained to a shocked Anakin.

'So all of this was a ruse?' he asked in disbelief.

Kei just nodded with a grin before leading the way to their meeting point.

---

Alone with her mentor, Dormé was frustrated and deeply saddened about having to leave Anakin again. It wasn't fair. She thought she was a princess now, or at least the fianceé of the prince. Didn't she have any rights? And why didn't Anakin threaten her mentor with his lightsaber, or something to take her away from this place. Maybe they would ship her back to Uriash and hide all knowledge of her existence just to spite her? Her thoughts became very dark indeed as she sat down, feeling utterly defeated.

Saché faced the younger handmaiden who sat down in despair. Furrowing her brow she looked at Dormé and shook her head. 'This is hardly the time to mope Dormé your prince is going to be waiting for you on the outskirts of the hanger decks,' Saché explained with a hint of a mischievous grin. 'Had you been listening to what I was telling Prince Breemu instead of making out with your husband you would have heard that I was only acting like I was throwing you out so Ellé wouldn't tell Padmé.' Saché further explained before offering a hand to help her up from the chair. 'The reason I even took you to this room was because it has the hidden hallway that leads to the hanger decks you silly girl. Now hurry up your husband's waiting for you. And for the record if anyone asks I know nothing,' Saché concluded with a wink.

Upon hearing Saché's proclamation, Dormé's eyes lit up full of the hope she thought she had permanently lost. Hearing the plan, she was overcome with joy and gratefulness to her mentor. So happy was she that she wasn't even embarrassed by Saché's teasing remark about being sidetracked kissing Anakin instead of listening to her plan all along. Dormé swiftly rose to her feet with renewed vigour and upon remember, just as Saché reminded her, that this room led to the hanger bay. She encompassed her mentor in a brief, but tight hug, thanking her profusely for this.

Saché promptly filled Dormé on the plan and couldn't help but find the entire situation amusing in its own rights. She could still recall doing similar stunts to fool her sisters whenever she wanted to slip off to see Soren. Dormé was most grateful and at the younger handmaiden's brief but tight hug, Saché felt her cheeks warm, as she grew sheepish.

'I'll never forget this, Saché!'

Shrugging she gave Dormé a grin as she nodded. 'I guess it isn't too late to say congratulations, is it?' she replied to Dormé's gratitude. 'And to once more remind you that you have indeed lost your mind,' she added in teasing tones before growing serious. 'You take care of yourself, Dormé,' she murmured as she watched the young woman depart only to pause and look back at her. Though Dormé was soon departing out of her life Saché couldn't help but feel that this wouldn't be the last time she saw her surrogate sister. Rather, she couldn't help but pray that it wouldn't be the last time.

It was then Dormé realised that she might not see her again for a very long time. It was a little bittersweet, but she didn't say goodbye to her. Instead, she turned away once more, heading in the direction of the ships where her husband would be waiting for her. With nervous anticipation, she quickly stole through the hallway, hoping there was not any security wandering the corridors and, to her luck, there weren't any.

---

Anakin waited with impatience beside The Tempest with Kei as he frowned deeply. 'You're certain she knows to come here? You did give her the right location didn't you?' he asked for the umpteenth time as Kei gave a frustrated sigh.

'Goddess help me, princess, you ask me that again, and I'm going to throw something at you!' Kei exclaimed in exasperation. Anakin just rolled his eyes and glared at the young nobleman.

'Quit calling me that! Dammit I don't know what I was thinking when I let you talk me down. My plan would have worked just as well, and I wouldn't have had you tagging along either!' Anakin groused as Kei laughed.

'Anakin seriously given your track record of rescue operations it's a good thing you did listen to me. Who knows whom you would have run into if you did go through with your brilliant idea of rushing back through the tunnels for Dormé! And without me or Dormé to save your sorry butt, I'd like to see you try and get out of that one!' Kei teased before Anakin waved a hand and stepped forward from The Tempest.

'What? What's going on?' Kei asked in concern but soon the prince was grinning and Kei knew immediately what that meant even before Anakin spoke.

'I can sense her signature nearing. Now get back to your ship and get ready to take off!' Anakin ordered as Kei shook his head and did as he was asked. Almost as soon as Kei was climbing into his ship Anakin caught sight of Dormé and was soon rushing forward to join her.

It wasn't until she felt his arms around her that she knew she was truly home. Following Anakin's lead, she allowed him to help her into The Tempest without looking back. Once they were out of Naboo's atmosphere, she attempted to get Anakin's attentions away from flying, whispering in his ear, 'Doesn't this have autopilot?' as she proceeded to kiss his neck.

Anakin couldn't resist a purr as she kissed his neck. 'You need not ask,' he murmured back as he immediately activated the controls that would permit him to do divulge in more pleasurable pursuits during their trip home.

So relieved to be back in Anakin's arms, Dormé soon forgot where they were heading or where they had been or anything of the past few days. Though she didn't voice it, it was quite clear that she had missed him.

The young prince soon began to kiss her eagerly, having felt as though they had been apart for a million years. It was only upon hearing the ship's computer announce they were entering Coruscant's atmosphere was Anakin even able to register his surroundings, nevermind their location once more. For he was only too happy to lose himself in the universe that was Dormé which always left him feeling as though nothing else save for her mattered.

She wondered why they got there so fast, though there would be plenty of lovebites on both of their necks to prove it had been awhile. She was reluctant to cease kissing Anakin, but surmised they would be able to continue this soon once they were back in their quarters.

After landing, they were both quite dishevelled looking. Dormé's hair was well out of its formerly intricate up-do and her cheeks were flushed, but she was smiling and holding Anakin's hand tightly. 'We should take your speeder out around the city sometime,' she suggested. 'It looks a little roomier than The Tempest.'

Though he was covered in lovebites and looking more than a little flushed Anakin was practically beaming and couldn't understand why Kei, who soon joined them, was looking more than embarrassed. 'Great goddess, what have I walked into?' he muttered to himself as Anakin chuckled at Dormé's words and murmured into her ear that he would be more than happy to give her a tour of the city.

While he was grateful to his colleague for helping them he wasn't too happy at the way Kei's eyes would linger on Dormé. However before his jealousy had a chance to take hold Anakin sensed something was wrong and furrowing his brow he found himself being approached by a man whom he didnt' recognised. There were two others behind him, both members of the Coruscanti intelligence.

Kei uttered a curse in his native tongue before giving Anakin a look of concern.

'By orders of the Humbarine intelligence and in cooperation of the Coruscanti Empire you have been placed under arrest for the murder of a Lady Akasha,' the man stated in clipped tones as Anakin's eyes widened.

Dormé was so caught up in her husband that she barely recognised Prince Kei and the officers approaching, at least not until they spoke of arresting Anakin. 'What—'

'WHAT! What in the blazes?' Anakin exclaimed as he looked to Kei in shock. 'I thought you said I was only going ot be questioned!' he stated as Kei gave a sigh.

Murder? Dormé balked at them. 'Who's Lady Aksa?' she asked, confused.

'That was only if your parent's didn't agree to the arrest,' he said quietly as Anakin began to panic. 'I didn't kill her! I didn't even know her name! I had no reason this is unbelievable you can' tdo this!' he shouted as the man quickly moved to place the handcuffs which had been designed to keep him from using the Force to free himself.

'I'm sorry your grace but you were the last one seen with the priestess before her death. Without any witnesses to claim your innocence or evidence to show otherwise-'

'You can't do this I'm the prince of the Coruscanti empire! This is insane! I will see you pay for this! I'll have you on the streets before you know what hit you!' he screamed while trying to use the Force to free himself only to watch in terror as the handcuffs remained firmly in place. The man swiftly removed the boy's lightsaber and gave it to the Coruscanti intelligence.

But then they were ripping Anakin away from her, putting him in handcuffs. 'Anakin, what's going on?' A priestess? Dormé found it hard to believe that Anakin had murdered someone without cause and was appalled at the treatment he was receiving. 'How dare you!' she shouted at the officers. 'Release him now!' She cursed herself for not having her sword with her, knowing she wouldn't hesitate to use it to free her beloved.

The men ignored Dormé's words just as Anakin in his panic and struggling fury ignored Kei's only to focus on Dormé as he continued to speak in desperate tones. 'I'm sorry, Dormé. I didn't mean to...I thought you didn't want to be with me anymore so I...' he fell silent at her words and touch before continuing in barely audible tones as shame was etched on his features.

'You...what?' she asked tentatively, though not normally one to prod for information.

'I don't remember all that happened...I was kind of...drunk and well on dust... but I know I didn't sleep with her and I know I didn't kill her either...' he said desperately in shamed tones as he hung his head no longer resisting the arrest as they prepared to take him away. 'I'm sorry Dormé...I really am...' he concluded softly no longer able to meet her eyes.

Upon hearing the truth, Dormé shook her head, not believing what she was hearing. Surely, he was just— She dropped her hands to her sides.

Though they weren't together at the time, he still felt awful about the entire situation and having forgotten to tell her about it certainly didn't help things. 'I didn't kill anyone, Dormé. I swear to you, I didn't...' he began desperately.

She touched his cheeks, assuring him she believed what he was saying. Her words were soft so that the officers couldn't hear her as she said, 'Be strong, my love. I swear to you, I will get you out of this somehow.'

Kei spoke quickly, 'Don't worry, I'm going to take care of this.' He was soon informed that unless further evidence was found, the Coruscanti prince was considered the main suspect. At the very least, he would be questioned and would have to stand trial. Nodding his understanding Kei knew in that moment he would have to pull some strings as well as speak to his contacts and couldn't help but sigh at the thought. This was turning out to be far more complicated then he wanted to admit.

Consumed by shame and guilt over the past Anakin forego his attempts to break free. It would seem Kei's promise to get him out of the mess wasn't as sincere as he believed. Just as his presumption that his parent's would stand up for him was too much to hope for. Now his marriage to Dormé was about to fall apart and he had no one to blame but himself. Unknown to the young prince, the Dark Side wasn't limited to rage and anger and as such, he soon fell prey to its dark whispers that told him that Dormé would leave him now, that he would spend the rest of his life paying the price for a foolish decision made.

Dormé had no chance to recover from her shock as Anakin gave in and allowed the Humbarine officers to take him away. She stared after them, unable to move.

With Anakin's sudden acceptance of his situation, Kei suddenly found himself alone with a shell-shocked Dormé who watched as the officers took her husband away. Quietly approaching the young princess, the nobleman was about to draw her away to inform her of his next course of action when she whirled around and demanded some answers.

Finally registering Prince Kei was still nearby, she turned to him, demanding, 'What the urugal is going on?' He had better have answers and a way to help Anakin out of this situation or she would kill him with her bare hands.

Recalling very well Anakin's battle wounds,Kei immediately raised his hands and stepped back quickly putting distance between them. 'Okay, okay! There's no need to get angry. I can explain,' he began before quickly adding, '—but only if you promise you won't pound me into the ground!'

Furious for not knowing what was going on and being powerless to stop the Humbarine security forces from taking away her husband, she shouted at Kei. 'No need to get angry?' she roared. 'They just took away my husband who they think killed a woman!'

Kei winced as she roared at him and promptly took another step back. 'Wonderful timing, Anakin. Drop the news in her lap and then leave her behind so she can kill me in your place,' he thought frantically. He was about to speak but promptly fell silent as she demanded once more for answers, this time not even bothering with titles or otherwise. Had he not been so scared for his life he might have found this amusing -as only Anakin was known to have a temper this bad or so he thought. Nevertheless, right now, he wanted nothing more than to calm Dormé and to keep her from taking out her frustrations on him. 'All right, all right now just calm down and I'll explain everything or at least all that I know...' Kei began as he furrowed his brow debating how much to tell her. In the end, he decided he wouldn't withhold any information for he knew Anakin would most likely fill her in on the sordid details and then he'd be on Dormé's death list as much as Anakin.

'You had better have a good explanation for this, Kei!' It was the first time she had used his proper name, but she was too angry to register this or pay it any mind. Dormé had no reason not to believe Anakin when he said he didn't kill that woman. But even so, she couldn't wrap her mind around what he had said about not sleeping with this priestess. She really didn't like the sound of that and this too added to her irritation.

'Look, before you kill me, I need to remind you that I am as much of a victim in this situation as you are. Goddess knows, spending any time with Anakin when he's having one of his pity parties is a form of torture that's in a class of its own,' Kei continued. He grew serious one more when he could tell Dormé was unamused by his attempts to tease. 'Basically, Anakin was the acting representative of the Coruscanti Empire for one of our religious celebrations. But instead of enjoying the festivities like anyone else would he just moped and sulked about how you two had called it quits. So I got frustrated and decided to help him get his mind off things...' he said choosing his words carefully and already bracing himself not to be punched.

'So I kinda took him to the temple of the goddess to well...find him someone. But only because on this night the goddess embodies her priestess's permitting them to bless her male followers who also on this night embody her lover...Its long and complicated,' Kei hurriedly added not wanting to take the blame and yet not knowing a safe way to avoid it. 'Long and the short of the story, he saw a priestess who looked a lot like you and I kinda encouraged him to talk to her and well...I don't know all that happened after but he says he didn't sleep with her, which doesn't surprise me given how obsessed he is about you...'

Dormé's anger disappeared as she listened to everything Kei had to say. Everything having to do with this religious celebration sounded sordid to her and thought ill of the priestess, despite the fact she was dead. But what hurt was what Kei said about Anakin. How would Kei know if Anakin had or had not slept with the priestess? How would Anakin know if he was drunk and on some 'dust'? 'But why do they think he killed her?' she asked, her voice weak as she caught her breath, trying not to cry.

If Kei felt bad about the entire situation, he felt utterly horrible now. Though Dormé was careful to keep up a good front he could tell she was struggling and it left him feeling awkward and torn. This was partly his fault and now looking back he couldn't help but want to kick himself for ever suggesting to the Jedi prince to join him at the temple. Had he known they really were this serious he wouldn't have even bothered. At her question, Kei furrowed his brow as he bit his lip. 'To be honest the only reason he even is the prime suspect is because he was last seen with her. Her body was found apparently some time after he took off after you I'm guessing. I didn't see him the next morning,' he admitted sheepishly.

Dormé put a hand to her temple as she could almost see the entire event unfolding in front of her. It filled her with such a jealousy that upon reflection might have frightened her. She wanted to kill the whore herself, and almost relished the fact she was dead, however, at the same time, she felt like her own soul had been sucked out, thinking about Anakin with someone else. She hated feeling this way, even more so that she couldn't do anything about it. She had no one to blame but herself.

'Also there is the fact they didn't find anything in the autopsy that could explain her death. It was literally as though her entire body ceased to function all at once and without any provocation -how did he explain it,' Kei continued as he recalled the examiners words. 'As though something had sucked the life out of her was the examiner's exact words, I believe, which in my culture means that something supernatural had occurred. And given that Anakin is fairly renowned for being sensitive to life energy or the Force as he knows it...well you can only imagine.'

So what if Anakin did kill her? She was dead. Why did anyone care? Had she been there, she would have done it herself! Why didn't Anakin tell her about this earlier? Had he fancied that priestess enough to want to hide it from her? Did he think she wouldn't have married him if he had told her? She must have had some effect on him indeed! Dormé couldn't help feeling sorry for herself and though she didn't say anything aloud to Kei, she silently sank to the floor of the docking bay as tears flowed down her cheeks. 'This is all my fault!'

Before he had a chance to suggest they depart to speak to his contacts about getting Anakin out of the arrest Dormé was sinking to the floor as tears streamed down her cheeks. Speechless, he could only stare at her in confusion to her words. 'How is this your fault? Last I remember, it was more Anakin and my own stupidity that brought us here,' he began, as he grew both sheepish and awkward. Kei though not exactly experienced with the ladies himself—despite his attempts to appear otherwise—did honestly want to help. However, he was at a loss as what to do or rather how to approach this delicate matter without having Anakin murdering him for it later.

Dormé's thoughts regressed to all the regrets she had while in the Separatists' camp, feeling as though her inability to admit her feelings for Anakin was what took him away from her to that religious ceremony and tossed him into the arms of another...and now consequently had him arrested. So deep into her own thoughts, she didn't reply to Kei because she could hardly hear him.

Then of course, there was the fact that he did find her intriguing, not to mention beautiful as well, which in turn added to his shyness. For despite his cocky and outspoken attitude Kei was by nature a kind-hearted and at times a shy soul who was more than conscious of how such a trait could be used against him. However, despite his awkwardness, the young nobleman felt bad for Dormé and wanted to help in what little way he could. Cautiously he approached her and gingerly placed a hand around her shoulders to draw her into a friendly hug. Though he feared Anakin's wrath he felt responsible for causing this rift between them and wanted to mend some of the damage done. 'Please don't cry milady, we're going to take care of this and get Anakin out before you know it. We both know he's innocent, we just need to convince the intelligence that he is too and I'm already working on it,' Kei said gently hoping his words would help ease a little of her sorrow. Though he had a feeling there was jealousy involved, the young prince didn't realize how deep it really went. After all, Anakin was single at the time and it was a ritualistic experience not an affair. Although he couldn't deny the fact he wouldn't be impressed either if he was in Dormé's position.

She stiffened when he wrapped an arm around her, feeling awkward. Since the only friend Dormé ever had was Anakin, she was confused by Kei's attempt at being nice to her. It did, however, get her out of her self-absorbed thoughts to hear what he had to say and she looked at him as he spoke.

Kei felt her stiffen and immediately felt his cheeks burn. He hadn't meant to make this moment a suggestive one but now feared she might regard his gesture as inappropriate. 'It's all right. I promise I'm going to help you get your husband free,' he said hoping she'd understand that he respected their marriage and had no intention of interfering. This seemed to calm her a little.

Believing Kei when he said he would help, was already helping, she turned into his embrace, wrapping her arms around his torso and crying on his shoulder.

Was it appropriate to comfort a married woman? Would Anakin accuse him of trying something? Would this result in political complications between his people and the Coruscanti Empire? A million thoughts raced through his mind but in the end, Kei reminded himself that right now Dormé needed a friend. Though this was partly his fault, he didn't want to see her hurt and so he tried his best to comfort her in what way he could. 'Listen, Dormé, I know I'm hardly the right person to say this but I know he never meant to hurt you. I mean Anakin is so obsessed with you it's almost frightening. In fact, it is downright frightening. Believe me you have nothing to worry about.' Kei said gently hoping his words would help even a little bit.

Kei didn't understand. He didn't have a clue... Dormé's tears subsided and she wiped her cheeks, pulling away from him. She wasn't questioning Anakin's devotion to her, just that she was ashamed of herself for causing him to do what he did. It helped that Kei was there and was at least trying to help her feel better. She knew she wouldn't truly be all right until Anakin was released. 'Tell me what I can do,' she said to Kei, rising to her feet in determination. If anyone was going to help her, the prince of the Humbarines would be able to do so.

Kei was almost embarrassed at the relief he felt when Dormé pulled away. Though he wanted to help, he was never very good at such things and it always made him feel awkward and clumsy. At her words he soon rose to his feet as well and gave a her an equally determined look. This was an area he was good in and promptly he told her of what the contacts had said before and what would be involved.

---

Anakin was in a most foul state of mind after having spent the entire day being questioned and cross-examined. Though he spoke the truth, it never seemed to be enough for them and despite his demands, no one seemed to listen which only added to his irritation. In the end, they seemed to satisfy themselves by dumping him in a Spartan room that would be considered luxurious by normal prison standards. For the prince however, this place was a dump and a dead-end and soon his thoughts filled with despair and sorrow. He was certain Dormé would never speak to him again because of his stupid behaviour and swore to himself that he would pound Kei the minute he saw the boy again. So much for the Humbarine prince's promise to keep him from being tossed into prison. But most of all he missed his wife and was soon consumed with grief at the possibility of her never wanting to see him again.

However, after what seemed to be an eternity Anakin sensed another approaching and soon heard the doors part. Rising to his, feet quickly he gave the guard a cold and stiff look but to his surprise, he wasn't being collected for another round of questions. As the man motioned him to approach, the prince complied with guarded annoyance.

'You're free to go your grace and may I express my sincere apologies for this entire—'

The guard never did finish his sentence as Anakin having just had his restraints removed proceeded to punch the man square in the jaw, cracking it in the process.

'Great goddess, Anakin what in the abyssal did you do that for? He was letting you go!' Kei cried out as the young prince departed from the cell with a look of annoyance.

Dormé was good at following directions. Being told what to do by nobility was something she had trained in and it was far easier to snap into handmaiden role because it was comfortable and familiar. She did as Kei told her and finally the contacts came through with the proof that Anakin was innocent and thusly was able to be released.

'Thanks for saving me from prison time, you idiot!' The young prince growled before his expression fell at the sight of Dormé. Falling silent, he could only study her in silent shame, as Kei gave a frustrated sigh.

'Your welcome, princess.' Kei was grateful that Dormé—unlike Anakin—didn't put up a fuss and went along with his plan. It ensured everything went smoothly and he couldn't help expressing his gratitude over her quick reactions and apologizing for ordering her around. Dormé was, after all, a princess now, but Kei was used to giving orders and didn't want to disrespect her new position.

When Anakin's eyes fell on her, she quickly moved to embrace him, holding him tightly. There would be time enough later for talking about the priestess.

At the sight of Dormé, the young prince immediately felt a rush of shame for his actions. He wished he would have remembered to speak to her about the priestess, nevermind telling her during a far more appropriate moment than his arrest. But as she moved to embrace him all this was forgotten and soon he was holding her tightly as though fearing she'd slip away if he let go.

She then turned to Kei, feeling a bit shy as she thanked him, though not saying why she was thanking him. It wouldn't do to make the guards suspicious.

As Dormé turned her attentions to Kei it was only then that Anakin finally registered that his current release was due to his friend's tactics. Giving Kei a sheepish smile, he nodded in agreement with Dormé.

The young prince's cheeks warmed to Dormé's gratitude and with a shrug, he just shook his head and waved a hand. 'It was nothing,' he sheepishly remarked before moving to depart.

Anakin's attentions were already on Dormé and as she took his hand suggesting they go home the young prince readily agreed. 'The sooner the better,' he murmured softly.

---

Not long after Anakin and Dormé returned to the palace, his parents requested his presence in order to censure his behaviour. They explained why they had not intervened, as they were publicly embarrassed by the murder charge against the Humbarine sector. The emperor seemed to believe much of this was Lady Jaffa's fault, that her toying with Anakin's affections had led to this political disgrace, not to mention the fact their slapdash wedding had brought further shame to the Skywalker family.

It was not a surprise that Anakin reacted poorly to this, not for himself, but for his wife, whom they still refused to recognise. Though Shmi was convinced through all of this and his protestations of love for Lady Jaffa over the years that her son truly loved this young woman, she could not consciously believe that Lady Jaffa was honest. Shmi had her personal advisor look into Lady Jaffa's background in Uriash, Naboo. What she found was hardly flattering, though nothing was spoken of Lady Jaffa's home life or her years working in the textile factory. It was enough of a mark against the young woman that she illegally used her grandfather's surname without his permission in order to use it to become a handmaiden in Queen Amidala's court.

As the days wore on and this news was brought to light, the empress insisted on calling Dormé Lady Janren, to mark that she had acquired this information. She didn't intend for this to shame the girl, rather to assert her rank, that she was unworthy of Anakin. Shmi made no effort to get to know her. But upon Anakin's insistence that they were married, Shmi had little choice but to pretend she would accept it. She spoke with her husband and they agreed to have Lady Dormé spend time with the empress in her home court on Tatooine to learn the nitty-gritty aspects of becoming the next empress.

The afternoon she was to present this news to her son, his half-brother, Obi-Wan Kenobi, stopped by to alert Anakin of their newest assignment. They were to be heading off to the Outer Rim Sieges to aid the Empire in its struggle against the Separatists who had become increasingly violent in their assaults. The Jedi Order needed their Chosen One.

---

In their bedroom in the royal palace on Coruscant, Dormé set about packing her things for her first trip to Tatooine. She had never packed so slowly in her life. It had only been three days since Anakin rescued her from Naboo and brought her back here and now she was leaving again. She didn't know that the reason Anakin's Master was here was to take him to war. As her mind ran with all the things she had to make sure to bring with her as well as what she might expect upon arrival, Dormé disregarded the door opening, folding another item of clothing into her single suitcase.

While Anakin was excited about the idea of having a real mission to do with the war itself, he dreaded the thought of being separated from his beloved. They had only been married and already they were being forced apart again. It was with this in mind that he endeavoured to spend what little time they did have left in the presence of his wife. So upon learning that she was currently packing for her departure Anakin -having just finished his meeting with his mother- was promptly heading to their quarters to see her once more. However as he slipped inside and caught sight of her packing his heart immediately sunk. There was still a part of him that secretly hoped there would be a way around this, but he knew in that moment there wouldn't be. Quietly approaching her, the young prince slipped his arms around her petite waist while burying his face in her hair.

Dormé left packing, leaning back into him, her hands brushing over his arms. How she hated to leave! But if this was the way to ensure their future together, she would do it. The empress said it would be at least a week, which was ages to the unofficial princess. 'I don't think I can stand it,' she lamented. 'I miss you already.'

Feeling Dormé leaning into his touch eased a little of Anakin's own sorrow and for a moment he was able to forget that soon they would be forced to part ways. Though his own brother assured him the mission wouldn't be much longer than a week at worst, Anakin was loathed to leave and felt this was going to be the longest journey away from Dormé yet. As the young princess spoke he soon realised she felt much the same and this too was a bit of a comfort. Tightening his embrace, he gave a deep sigh as he nodded. 'I know, it seems like everything and everyone is bent on keeping us apart. Even the Jedi Order has decided that now would be a good time for me to experience my first mission on the frontlines,' he admitted quietly. 'Apparently I'm to be gone for about as long as you will be...Although between the two of us I'm going to find a way to cut it short,' he continued with a hint of a hopeful smile.

'What?' she queried, turning to face him with a look of concern. Hearing that the Jedi Order ordered the young prince to the frontlines was unbelievable to her. Despite his quips about finding ways to end his time early, though it seemed it would only be a week, Dormé still did not like this idea one bit.

'After all a lot of things can go wrong on the frontlines and who knows perhaps some miss-coordinates might just accidentally lead my ship to Tatooine, where I will then be required to come to the impromptu aid of a certain princess,' he only semi-teased as he kissed her throat.

'But how can they do this? I thought nobility doesn't ever see the frontlines. What if you're—' Dormé stopped herself short, not wanting to think about the possibilities. 'Don't they realise you'll have an empire to run?' She was so scared for him now, even though she knew he was a capable fighter.

Anakin immediately felt her concern and realised his attempts to brag in order to impress her was having the opposite effect. Furrowing his brow Anakin shook his head as he reached out gently touching her cheek. 'It's okay, Dormé. I'm not really going to be right in the line of fire. I'm just going to be close to the frontlines -as close as my brother will let me,' he added with a wry smile.

Even though it was reassuring to hear that he had exaggerated slightly in his statement about being on the frontlines, she was still concerned for his welfare. Though she knew his brother was protective of him, she also knew he was his Master and trainer. She knew that part of training is fighting and he would no doubt see battle. She had to admit it did fill her with pride.

'Believe me, I'm not going to be in any sort of danger. Besides, if I recall correctly there is a certain princess I know who used to place her life in danger all the time as part of a day's work. If anyone had the right to worry, it was me,' he said gently finding her concern to be touching and yet bittersweet. As luck would have it after all his years of begging to go on a real mission it was finally given to him but only after he had just married the love of his life.

His mention of her former line of work almost caused her to object, but his expression turned pensive and ashamed. At first, she wasn't sure what he was apologising for because with everything that had happened since they were married a few days ago, she had forgotten about the priestess. The confession caused her to swallow hard, thinking about her own attempt at trying to get over Anakin.

This thought that also reminded Anakin of the events that ultimately brought them to this point and soon his cheeks began to burn at the memory. Growing sheepish, he bit his lip as he glanced away briefly before returning her gaze as his expression turned shamed and guilty. 'I know this isn't exactly the best time to bring this up, but I—' Anakin faltered feeling so ashamed of himself for his actions and wishing desperately he could go back and do it all over again. 'I want to apologise for everything,' his hand slipped from her cheek then as it then slipped to his utility belt a sign of his nerves. 'I was going to tell you about the temple priestess, but after all that had happened, I forgot. It wasn't until Kei learnt she had died did I even remember and well— The only reason why I even went along with Kei's stupid idea was because I wanted to prove to him that I wasn't weak and to prove to myself that I could move on. But I was serious when I said I didn't sleep with her,' he concluded with desperate determination.

'I have to make a confession of my own,' she said quietly. 'I went out with Moteé to a club and ended up in her a room of her father's hotel chain with a man in an effort to convince myself that I bore no feelings outside of friendship for you...' Though she didn't move away from him, she found it hard to meet his eyes, but struggled to do so. 'I couldn't go through with it...ended up having to use the back end of my blaster on his jaw to leave, but I just wanted you to know so you didn't feel guilty about the priestess.'

Dormé's confession caught Anakin off guard but at the same time, there was a part of him that was almost relieved to hear it. Not because it excused his own actions, rather the fact it revealed that he was the only one who struggled to pretend his feelings wasn't real. However it wasn't to say that he didn't feel jealous over the entire incident and when Dormé admitted that she used the back end of her blaster on the man's jaw to end things Anakin couldn't hide a hint of a smirk. In truth, he wanted to punch the man out himself but it was probably best Dormé did it. However, he could sense her own awkwardness and noting her struggle to hold his gaze silently slipped his arms around her in reassurance. He wanted her to know that he would never judge her for this that it was in the past and what matter was that they had each other now.

The comfortable silence that fell between them allowed Dormé to admit what she really felt about the whole situation with the priestess. She also wanted Anakin to know that she didn't blame him for her death. The woman was hardly innocent, her crime being the way she treated Anakin, taking advantage of his pain. After a moment, she added, 'I have to admit, I probably would have killed her myself, that priestess, for what she did to you.' At that moment, Dormé was exaggerating, but couldn't say she was sorry the woman was no longer alive.

The young prince couldn't resist a dark smile. Though he knew it was wrong to think such things, the thought of seeing Dormé in such action was a thrilling thought to say the least. 'I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to kill that guy for trying to seduce you. Although, I think he learnt his lesson well enough from the back end of your pistol. I'm just sorry I wasn't there to see it,' he admitted with a hint of an impish smile. Though he still felt awful about his experience with the priestess, he was more grateful that it was behind them now, that ultimately she was here in his arms where she belonged.

Anakin's dark smile intrigued her and made her feel things and think of things she hadn't really considered before. What would it have been like if Anakin had showed up when she was kissing that man? To see Anakin leaping over to punch him out? To see that anger in Anakin? 'Me too,' she whispered breathlessly. Forgetting about her packing or that they would be forced to part soon, Dormé kissed her husband in such a way as to claim him as her own, that no other woman would dare touch him.

Dormé's breathless whisper seemed to echo his dark thoughts as he imagined Dormé drawing her blade on the priestess in a fit of jealousy. The thought was a heady one and soon his dark smile grew wider as her words continued to echo in his mind. She understood the darker urges that he didn't dare express and it was this thought that filled his mind as he pulled her into a tight embrace before eagerly responding to her passionate and possessive kiss.

Before Anakin had a chance to truly claim his wife, the servants were chiming at the door, demanding their attention. Even so, Anakin was far too busy to bother with the door and it wasn't until one of the servants finally opened the door—figuring Dormé had already departed—did Anakin finally take a pause in his final moments with his wife. Scowling at the servant, he barked an order for them to depart. However, his mother having already anticipated such an event had given the lady warning that her word overrode Anakin's and not to listen to his demands.

Dormé placed her hand on his cheek to turn his attentions back to her, thinking they had time and if they didn't she would make time. After all, they didn't know how long it would be until they next saw each other. She didn't care who saw them, for she was too caught up in Anakin to notice.

Anakin attempted to demand that the servant leave them alone and when his orders were refused the young prince began to threaten to have her fired on the spot. In the end it was Dormé's gentle touch that ended the arguments as Anakin soon found himself growing lost in her kisses once more. Time, like luck, was something they always made for themselves and this was no different or so Anakin believed.

After speaking with the emperor and empress, Obi-Wan strolled down the hallway leading to the room he sensed Anakin was in. Before approaching the door another servant informed him of the situation, which was to be expected, and he requested they tell Anakin he would be waiting for him in the docking bay where the empress was already preparing to depart for Tatooine with the young handmaiden.

When the news was relayed, Dormé drew out of her passionate reverie, soon overcome with sadness with their eminent parting. She ordered a servant offhandedly to deal with her luggage and clung to Anakin, not wanting to have to leave, but knowing they had to.

Reluctantly, he withdrew from his passionate embrace though still holding her close as they slowly made their way to the docking bay. Though he knew it was only going to be a week, it felt like it was going to be an eternity and Anakin was loathed to part ways with Dormé until it was absolutely necessary. Even as they reached the docking bay, he was quickly to pull her into another tight hug before leaning in to give her a proper and very passionate kiss goodbye.

Though she didn't say anything as they made their way to the docking bay, Dormé knew if she did, she would cry. But when Anakin pulled her into a final tight hug, she couldn't help it anymore. It just wasn't fair! They had only just married and they were forced apart again. Was the whole universe set against them?

The empress was called away to other duties but informed Dormé she would be following shortly before saying farewell to her son as well. Dormé watched in silence, holding into him possessively.

If her silence tore at his heart, her tears only confirmed it. As he held her tightly—fearing to let her go—Anakin tried his best to send her soothing thoughts to ease her sorrow. But his own pain mirrored hers and so it was a lost cause to say the very least. Even so, he did his best to hold onto to her for as long as he could, putting to memory every detail of her features so during the long hours apart, he could dwell on them. Leaning in he gave her a proper parting kiss pouring into it all the love and passion he held for her before one of the handmaidens took Dormé's arm to draw her away.

One of the elder handmaidens had to come over to take Dormé's arm, pulling her away from Anakin or else they never would have persuaded her to leave. 'I love you,' she murmured between her tears as the handmaiden escorted her to the ship. Dormé's eyes remained locked on Anakin as she was taken to the ship.

Feeling his heart drop to his feet he didn't attempt to fight the matter, as he knew it was a lost cause and didn't want to worsen things for his beloved. But at her tearful profession of love the young prince felt tears of his own come to his eyes as he watched her being escorted away. 'I love you too...' he whispered back softly, feeling as though the most important part of him was leaving with her. In silence, he watched her never one letting his eyes waver from hers as she was taken to the ship. Even after she was out of sight, the young prince remained watching as her ship took off before reluctantly returning to his brother to begin his own journey to the outer rim.

As Dormé rode on the starship that would take her to the unknown regions of the desert planet of Tatooine, Dormé could still feel his arms around her, the pressure of his lips against her own... Not caring who saw her, she wrapped her arms around herself, crying because she missed him. She knew she would see him again, that it wasn't the last time, but she couldn't help feeling sorry for herself, wishing the universe would cater to their will. As it was, the empress would soon be joining her on Tatooine and she would begin her training as future empress, training that would enhance her abilities at being the wife of an emperor. She had to be strong, as difficult as it was.

The journey was far too long for Anakin's liking and the prince spent much of his time alone pretending like he was meditating when in reality he was thinking about how he missed his beloved. It just wasn't fair that they should be married, only to be torn apart right after. The thought filled him with bitterness towards the Order, towards his mother and the entire universe for 'conspiring' against them or so it felt. Though he tried to remind himself that it was only a week, the young prince was already miserable and even his attempts to get some sleep was a lost cause. Though he tried to wrap an arm around himself and fiddle with his Padawan braid like Dormé always would, it just wasn't the same without her and as embarrassing as it was, there was times when he found tears of loneliness coming to his eyes. It was only upon discovering a way to override the datapads to leave messages was he able to cheer himself up a little. It wasn't much, but for a time, it allowed him to imagine his beloved was near.