[Hux leaned into the touch without thinking about it but he gave only a weak smile for a moment before it faded.]

I should give a little background first. I mentioned the New Republic- what you called the cops.

[He took a deep breath, steadying himself. He wanted to reach for Klaus but he found himself not wanting to feel Klaus recoiling.]

The New Republic ruled for thirty years. Untold horror...it was a nightmare. What was left of the Empire got driven into exile. There was a peace treaty but they broke it by sending terrorists to attack.

[He was being honest, he would tell him everything without holding back.]

The galaxy had barely survived the last two wars, a third....a third galactic war would have been horrific.

[He fell silent then, looking at Klaus. When he spoke again, his voice had none of the usual confidence. Was this regret? Was this what Anakin had been talking about?]

I had to do something.