The Lady of Shalott

Behind him, he sensed Vader still waiting in genuflection. How long had theDark Lord been there? Five minutes? Ten? The Emperor was uncertain. Nomatter. The Emperor had not quite finished his meditation. Lord Vader did not mind waiting, though, nor was he even aware of it. For itwas an honor, and a noble activity, to kneel at his ruler's feet. He kept his eyesinward, seeking reflection in his own bottomless core. His power was great, now,greater than it had ever been. It shimmered from within, and resonated with thewaves of darkness that flowed from the Emperor. He felt engorged with this power,it surged like black fire, demon electrons looking for ground…but he would wait.For his Emperor was not ready; and his son was not ready, and the time was not yet.So he waited. Finally the chair slowly rotated until the Emperor faced Vader. Vader spoke first. "What is thy bidding, my master?"