Welcoming the new neighbors.
The blast of cold air passed through the open covers, and Ekuryua sat up with a start. The cabin door was closing it seems that Risch had left her sleeping and started his next duty cycle. Unfortunately he failed to cover her properly and the sudden change in temperature woke her from a sound sleep. Putting on her warm up suit she left his quarters and made her way back to her quarters. Closing the door behind her she is greeted by a flashing light on her console. Playing the recording she’s annoyed at first, then after running it through the ships translator, she becomes very intrigued with its contents. “So they know all about us and they want to try to straighten us out?” Ekuryua mused.
That conversation gave her hope, a hope she had long since put aside, that the Empire somehow would become a more stable place to live in and that the demands on every member of the race could be reduced. The war had taken its toll on the Empire. The lives lost had place a great strain on the Abh. Now they found a race, related and willing to help. Would the arrogance of the royal family stop the residents of Sol Eros? Ekuryua figured no, since they were now under Lafiel’s protection no other member would dare do anything to harm them. But would the Grand Council take advice from strangers? Could the members of Sol-Eros really change the Abh’s lives for the better? Ekuryua ponders these issues as she lay in her bunk, finally the sleep Risch had kept her from took hold of her and now dreams replaced logic.
*********
Lafiel’s sudden movement, plus a well-placed foot, woke Jinto. He turned to find her laying on her back snoring. There were only a few occasions where Lafiel snored although she would defiantly denied it, this time Jinto was prepared to prove it. His creunoc pointed at his love he recorded a session that Lafiel later could not deny. The recording finished he gently placed his fingers over her nose and gave a quick squeeze. Lafiel shook and swatted at him then rolled on her side as the snoring subsided. Later they awoke facing each other. “Jinto you awake?” Jinto’s head nods. “I just had the weirdest dream wanna hear it?” One eye opens slightly Jinto lays watching Lafiel. “Sure I’m interested.” Lafiel then says. “Remember the first time you ever questioned my judgment?” Jinto’s eye blinks. Lafiel continues. “I said I had a feeling, you called it a hunch and we decided on intuition. Remember?” Jinto stirs. “Yeah right after we were stranded in plane space and lost the Seigroil. You made that mad dash forward and you were right that time. You’ve proved time and again Lafiel your hunches are pretty well on the mark.” Jinto lies puzzled. “So what does this have to do with your dream?”
Lafiel lays on her back and stares at the ceiling. “Jinto a lot has happened this past month. We’ve both done and said things to each other that we never would have dreamed of. My dream was, I said something to you and you finally got angry and left me. From that moment on I could not make a rational decision. I’ve realized I’m totally dependent on you and I was never that way, before, I met you. I made decisions I’ll admit some of them were wrong but I was only sixteen when we met. It was my growing time I was allowed, to a certain extent, to make mistakes. In my dream I was trying to have a normal life without you and it was becoming very difficult almost impossible. I lie here next to you and know I can go on by myself if I need to. But Jinto I also realize that you’ve become an emotional part of me, a part I would miss very much if it was to leave me.”
Jinto took his arm and braced him self up on his side so he could see Lafiel’s face. What he saw was no surprise. Two tear stained eyes greeted him. He gently kissed her trembling lips and said. “You are aware everything you’ve said applies to me as well Lafiel?” She had a look of amazement on her face Jinto continued. “From the moment I blocked what I thought was a blow. But turned out to be a salute from you, I knew you were the one I wanted to spend my life with. Lafiel we’ve had many close calls, a lot of disagreements and we have done a lot of growing up together. I’ve gotten use to the fact that you are who you are and that sometimes you must do what you must and I’ve tried very hard not to interfere unless you were going to prove a danger to yourself or the crew.”
Lafiel’s eyes narrowed for a moment. “Still trying to be my guardian Jinto?” Jinto shook his head. “You've misunderstood me Lafiel. I am your friend. Friends help and look out for each other. Guardians protect those who cannot protect themselves, and honey you’ve never had a problem protecting yourself. I’ve spent all of my time with you, listening to you, commenting on your thoughts, offering my suggestion and lately wanting to be included in everything you do. But I realize that a part of you is fiercely independent and I’ve accepted that fact. That’s why I stayed with Erin instead of being on the bridge the last battle you had. Erin is a good person Lafiel. However you were right in one thing. She is not the type of woman I could love or care about as much as I do you.” Lafiel’s face relaxed. The tears started to flow uncontrollably. She managed to get these word out. “Jinto is this the unconditional love that you have spoken of?” Jinto nods. Lafiel rolls into his arms and sobs. “I love you Jinto. But why do I always treat you so badly?” Before he can speak she says. “At this rate I’ll never be a good parent. There is no way I’ll treat a child like I’ve treated you Jinto.” She presses her self into his side. It’s there they fall into a deep dream less sleep.
*********
Erin slept as Scholar sat looking over the plans for the new village. This new planet resembled Sol-Eros slightly. The area the Princess had chosen for them was much better than being on the coast of Sol-Eros. This planets climate was very uniform; the seasons came every four months, like clockwork and the temperature varied and average of sixty degrees, from the twenties during the winter to the eighties during the summer. This place was a paradise compared to where they came from. The only thing that bothered Scholar was the planets name. In Abh it was very unattractive as far as the star charts went it was a planet in the Abuse system. Scholar though, “First thing we do is change the name of this planet, after we get settled, that Abh name is horrid.” Erin stirred for a moment and returned to sleeping. Scholar slipped into the bunk on the other side of the room. The ships A.I. bid her good night and watched over her as she slept.*********
“Admiral Nastoyia? Admiral can you hear me?” Nastoyia lay sleeping, for her it was the first deep sleep she had in a long time, however the First Officer was not accepting this fact, he needed her awake now, this matter could not wait. The pounding on the door sat her straight up in bed, ignoring how she was attired she punched the door open button and stood staring at a very surprised First Officer. “What is it? This better be good or I’ll have.” Getting over the fact that his commanding officer stood half naked before him he spoke. “He’s dead Admiral. He died in his sleep. I guess it was his time to go.” Nastoyia, her head still full of cobwebs stood for a moment. Then her First Officers words sunk in. “His Excellency is dead? Died in his sleep you say. Crap. Her Highness is going to have my hide over this one and Ramaj will probably feed me to the cats. Just what the hell did I do to deserve this? Tell me?” Her First Officer stood silent before her. Nastoyia was wearing only a bra and panties. This outfit left nothing to his imagination. Nastoyia finally saw the look in his eyes and felt the cold of the ship over coming her anger. Not flinching she said. “Ignore my looks and answer my question.” His eyes stop scanning her and froze into hers. “Admiral I have no idea what you said or did to deserve this, however, might I suggest a change of wardrobe before you accompany me to the brig. Maybe the medical staff has an answer to your question I have none Admiral.”
Nastoyia steps back into her quarters the door slamming behind her. The First Officer got to relax for a moment then the door slide back open. Nastoyia stood in uniform top and slacks she said. “I suggest you forget what you saw when you arrived here. Your life span will increase markedly if you do. Now let’s go to the brig First Officer.” Nastoyia took the lead. Her first officer a few steps behind her, observing her walking along and wondering what the side he was following looked like clad as the front half of her had been.
Entering the brig the medical spoke. “Sorry Admiral there was nothing I could have done. He should have died a couple of months ago. We found these in his effects.” She hands Nastoyia a bottle of pills. Nastoyia looks at them and gasps. “Are these what I think they are?” The medical officer nods. “Yes they are. Besides being highly illegal to produce. If I wasn’t here you could be put to death by having them in your possession.” Nastoyia hands the bottle back to the medical officer. ”Where do you think he got these from?”
The medical officer shakes her head. “I’ll have to run some test. I figure they were homemade. He did hold several degrees in the medical arts and this would be a simple formula to do given his connections.” Nastoyia shook her head. “Life extending pills were outlawed six hundred years ago. They never worked as promised and the brain deteriorated at such a rate that a vegetative brain controlled the body within six months. You can’t cheat your genes.” Nastoyia turns and leaves the brig. Now she had to compose a report that would surely turn the Capital on its ear. As she left the First Office asked the medical officer. “Doc? How old do you think the Admiral is?” The Medical Officer smiles. “She almost middle-age that’s all I’ll tell you.” The First Officer leaves the medical officer. His thoughts return to his view of the Admiral from earlier. A small smile appears on his face as he heads for the bridge.
*********
Dustain sits quietly reading. His terminal has limits built into it and normally several times daily he finds a page he’s not able to view. That message confronts him now. He tried to request the history of a certain member of the Crybh family. Her picture faces him on the display the only thing he knows she is the First Princess of that clan. The camera that monitors him is also transmitting what he is viewing to Dr. Sasoum’s office. She decides to end his constant search for information concerning this Princess. Leaving her office she consults with Admiral Kenesh. There is an agreement to give Dustain enough information to keep him from pursuing any further inquiries about Lafiel Ablïarsec. The door opens as Dustain darkens the display. Dr. Sasoum enters and says. “Put the display back on.” The display lightens and Lafiel’s face is seen with a brief history next to it. The rest of the page is censored. “You want to know about her don’t you?” Dustain nods. The doctor proceeds to give him a bit broader history of Lafiel Ablïarsec.
“So she’s important to the Empire? Does she have someone?” Sasoum picks up on his thoughts. “She is joined to a Count, as far as her importance to the Empire is concerned. Every subject of the Empire plays an important role in the welfare of the whole.”
Dustain takes this moment to ask a question he’s been harboring for awhile. “Doctor how much longer do I stay in this facility? I was assured that soon I’d be able to move freely about the Capital but I sit here confined. I’m not bothered about having information censored but what is my status. Am I your prisoner or am I a subject of this Empire? Where do I stand?” Doctor Sasoum faces him. “I’m not the one who you need to address that question to. However I’ll be seeing her soon. I’ll relay your concerns to her at that time. I’ll also make sure to get you an answer as soon a possible.”
Dustain returns to his display. “Thank you, Doctor. I’ll be awaiting your return.” Dr Sasoum leaves the room. Dustain enters another search and Admiral Kenesh’s face appears on the screen. Leaning back in his chair he muses. “So this is the one that my clone had relations with. I wonder what she is like?” He returns his thoughts to the terminal and does a history search which he finds two thirds of the page censored.
Turning off the terminal he leaves the room headed for the observation lounge at least there he can see something that’s not censored, space and the view of the royal shipyards. One thing Dustain has learned the United Mankind was never going to defeat the Abh. Their resources and resolve were such that they were going to fight to the last soul. Something the U.M.K. never had the stomach to do. The stars shone and the shipyard was ablaze with activity.
*********
Aboard Ekuryua’s attack frigate, in the crew dining area, was a table reserved for the Captain or other V.I.P.’s. It was this table where Scholar and Erin sat eating quietly while the rest of the crew watched. Their incredible beauty amazed the Abh born members of the crew. The citizen Abh members were surprised by the liberties these strangers were being granted. Scholar sensed these apprehensions, and a mental link to Erin confirmed she was feeling them as well. “Young one don’t be afraid they do not know us, their apprehension is shared.” Erin nods, “I feel like their eyes are trying to gain access to my soul. What shall we do?” Scholar smiles “For now child we do nothing. We will soon be off this ship and in a place were no one will bother us.” They continue eating, once finished they place their trays in the disposal bin and return to their quarters. Scholar makes sure Erin is relaxed before she heads to the bridge. A chat with the ships A.I. is one of the first things she plans. This feeling she sensed in the crew dining area, she wanted an explanation of it and the ships A.I. was the first place to start. Linking into the ships sensors she first communicates with the transport. The council has not sensed the feelings that Scholar has, the Abh aboard this ship seem very preoccupied with their safety and welfare to go into any long-term observations of their passengers. Her conversation with the A.I. unit opened her eyes to the crew’s impressions of them. At first the crew was not impressed with them at all. Now, since Scholar’s small feats of magic have been preformed, it was the general conscious of the crew that having them as friends was a good idea. However they had remained so aloof, that the crew figured all Sol Erosions thought they were better than the Abh, something the A.I. related was a total hostile feeling to the Abh.
Scholar leans back in her chair, the members of the bridge crew are watching her every movement. She muses, “So we’ve left them with the impression that we are better than they are. I’ll need to convince them that we are only different, not better, before I leave this ship or the rumors will fly and someone somewhere will come looking for those arrogant people.” She gently shakes her head from side to side, “We are not arrogant, and the Abh are, to a certain extent. I guess now is as good as a time as any to start explaining my people to these Abh.”
Scholar turns to a shocked Navigator and starts a discussion with her about how the ship functions. At first the Navigator was reluctant to talk to her, then, finally she opened up. Scholar sat listening and asking questions. One by one other members of the bridge crew started asking Scholar questions. She truthfully answered each and every one of them. By the time Ekuryua came to the bridge a conversation of cultures was underway, all the time Scholar was monitoring the ship, she also managed to answer every question posed to her. Finding the center seat empty, Ekuryua sat listening to the conversation, the crew was so involved in quizzing Scholar they had not noticed the Captain coming on the bridge.
It was when the First Officer turned to go back to his station he noticed her sitting there. “Ah Captain when did you get here?” Ekuryua smiled, “The seat was cold when I sat in it, how long were you away from your station?” The First Officer froze she had just jarred him back to reality as only she could. Before he could speak she finished her thought. “I’m glad you finally got to know Scholar as I have and I’m happy the crew has a better understanding, next time you decide to have a conversation like this though don’t forget to invite your Captain. Okay?” The First Officer nods “Aye Captain I’ll not forget you again. Does this mean you’ll not be putting me on report?” Ekuryua smiles “Go, get back in the conversation.” The First Officer returns, Scholar notices Ekuryua sitting there, they exchange smiles and the conversation continues.
*********
Two displays face Samson. Seelnay was in one Risch in the other. The power reactor for the new settlement was the topic of discussion. Seelnay had voiced her objection of the initial size of the unit. Her concerns were it was too powerful; it gave them too much energy. Risch countered with the fact it was planned this reactor would meet the requirements of the settlement for the foreseeable future. “Seelnay look at it this way. We give them extra capacity now and we shouldn’t have to bother them. If, as you said, we limit there power and say five years later they need more, then we would have to take them off line to upgrade. I think Samson and Paveryua did their homework well. I’d rather do this once and be done with it.” Seelnay leans back; she contemplates Risch’s words, “Fine, you’re right, and my fears over them becoming a threat to the Empire are probably without foundation… I hope.” Samson has listened to the objections and accusations, he then says, “Then we are in agreement, Seelnay you work with Risch on the layout and submit it to me before we clear the Sord. I’d like to have the power active within twenty hours of our arrival. I don’t want those people left on the transport any longer than necessary. Once the power is up and running, the shelters for the settlement will be set up when the transports land. We have a lot of work to do and this time we have the manpower to do it. Basically the sooner we get going. The sooner it’s done and we can go on with our lives as well.” Seelnay and Risch both nod in agreement.
The displays go blank and Samson leaves the room, meeting Sobbash, he details the conversation, to which Sobbash comments, “Seelnay has got some nerve, to condemn Scholar and the rest of the residents given her recent actions.” Sobbash shakes her head, “Samson I don’t know anymore, this last six weeks has been something that may take me years to completely understand.” Sobbash stands visibly shaken. Samson puts his arms on her shoulders. “Don’t try to find all the answers now, let’s get these people settled, return to Hyde and then try to find meaning to all of this later.”
Sobbash smiles “As always Samson you’re ability to see the bigger picture, I want to be done with this, although do we leave Seelnay here or take her home?” Samson places his fingers on her lips. “Sobbash we settle the people first, then we take things one at a time. Remember the Princess is in charge of this little expedition. Let’s look out for what we have responsibilities over and let Her Highness and Ekuryua tackle the bigger issues.” Sobbash nods, with arms around each other’s midsection Sobbash and Samson proceed towards the bridge lift.
*********
Nastoyia’s report was not received well at the Capital, as she figured, Ramaj was incensed and Kenesh disappointed. His Excellency’s death left many unanswered questions. Ramaj went ahead with rounding up and questioning everyone who had the slightest knowledge of His Excellency. She found several members of the clans were in league with him. Those members were question then scanned, those not directly connected with his plot to disrupt the government were placed under observation. To those unfortunate ones who completely supported him, they shared his fate, solitary imprisonment until they die. The Abh did have Capital punishment for only the most heinous crimes. This was not one of them, their alliance to His Excellency, since his plot to kill Lafiel and those of Sol-Eros failed. It left them guilty of association and nothing else. Isolation from society was a fitting punishment. Finally Ramaj turned her attention to those with in the Star Forces who had given him aid or support. The elite security forces, which she had disbanded and His Excellency had clandestinely resurrected, were finally put out of commission. Those who resisted were imprisoned; those who tried to defend themselves were killed. In all two hundred members were either imprisoned or killed.
Admiral Spoor’s folder sat on Kenesh’s desk. She had been given the assignment of questioning Spoor upon her arrival back to the Capital and she was also given the authority to assess the situation and assign punishment as required. Ramaj’s words still rang in her ears, “You’ll judge her solely on the evidence and you alone will determine her fate. I must remove myself from this, my emotions; I’d put her to death if I could. You’re more objective Kenesh. Just don’t give her anything she wants.”
Kenesh lies staring at the ceiling floating a top her desk. Spoor’s folder drifts by her she lets it float. Admiral Spoor will arrive in a month maybe sooner; Kenesh will deal with her when the time comes. Right now she has another concern, Dustain has requested his freedom and a meeting with her. She’s not ready to grant either request. Dimming the office lights and closing the door, she lies floating, thinking about everything, not able to focus on any one subject. She falls asleep her mind in turmoil it is not a pleasant rest.
*********
Lafiel stirred, this urgent need to go to the bathroom annoyed her; she was in the middle of a wonderful dream and felt completely at ease when this annoying biological function woke her from a sound sleep. Making her way around Jinto she found the bathroom. Mission accomplished she now found it impossible to return to sleep let alone to her dream. Raising the cabin lighting slightly, she realizes she and Jinto had slept the better part of one day away. She tried nudging Jinto but like a log he lay there sleeping soundly. Frustrated she employed a more direct approach. Lifting the covers she reach with a cold hand towards Jinto’s midsection, one touch in the right place and Jinto smartly sat up, “Not fair Lafiel you know what that does to me.” He almost knocked her over heading for the bathroom. When he reentered the room he continued, “Why did you do that Lafiel?” she pointed to the ships clock. Jinto stared at it, it took him a moment to understand what it was telling him then he said, “Wow almost a whole day we slept.”
He took a double take, “Wonder who’s been doing the planning for the settlement and I wonder why nobody came after us?” Glancing at the console he got his answer. Lafiel has inputted, “Do not Disturb Under Penalty of Death” in the message center. Anyone approaching the door would see that and anyone trying to communicate with them would be greeted with that message. Jinto erased it from the console, he turns to Lafiel, “Well now what do you want to do?” Lafiel smiles, “Eat, then find out what has happened since we disappeared from this world.” Jinto nods, they dress casual and head for the dining area.
“Captain. The Princess and the Count are on the move.” Ekuryua walks over to the First Officer’s station, she sees the two readouts moving towards the dining area. “About time I figured they were going to sleep for a week.” The First Officer points at the flashing message lamp, “Should I forward that to Her Highness it is marked Urgent.” Ekuryua shakes her head, “I’ll take care of that. You inform Admiral Sobbash that they are awake and I’ll forward her request to the Princess.” The First Officer nods and Ekuryua loads a copy of the message on her creunoc. Leaving the bridge she arrives at the dining area just as Jinto and Lafiel are sitting down.”
Sitting next to Lafiel she says, “Better read this before you eat.” She hands Lafiel her creunoc. Lafiel decodes the message; her face grows pale “How long ago was this received?” “About six hours ago, you set that message and I’d figured if you weren’t up shortly I’d come barging in with it.” Lafiel hands Nastoyia’s message to Jinto he reads it and he too looks pale “Does this mean what I think it does?” Lafiel nods, “Grandmother is probably rounding up all of his supporters, depending on what her mood is they will at least be imprisoned, if not killed outright on the spot.”
Jinto stares at Lafiel in shock. She continues, “It’s like I just said grandmother is still the leader of the council and in command of the military although she does not hold the title of Empress she has all the power and authority of one. Depends on her mood I hope she shows some compassion, and then again, she is an Ablïarsec. One you’ve not influenced Jinto.” Jinto nods.
Ekuryua watches as Lafiel digs in to her breakfast, Lafiel sees the look in Ekuryua’s eyes and says, “Noel there is nothing I can do to stop what is already happening at the Capital, even if I were there I’d never defy Grandmother.” Ekuryua shakes her head, “It’s not the Capital I’m worried about. It’s Spoor and Sobbash they were involved in this mess as was I to a certain extent.” Lafiel stops eating she faces Ekuryua, “You better forward that message to Spoor. Then I want to see you and Sobbash in my quarters with in the hour.” Ekuryua goes to leave Lafiel makes one more comment “Get Sobbash over here, but do not tell her why I want to see her you do understand me Noel?” Ekuryua nods and leaves the room
Lafiel looks at Jinto “Go spend some time with Erin while I have my meeting.” Jinto goes to voice his displeasure Lafiel cuts him off. “Jinto this is between Sobbash, Spoor, Ekuryua and myself. I promise I’ll be fair, a lot fairer than Grandmother is being. They are my friends and I figure they were all following orders. I just want the record set straight and a new understanding forged out before we settle the residences of Sol-Eros. The Capital will no longer have free access to the planet.”
Jinto looked at Lafiel “Sounds like you’re declaring your independence from the Empire.” Lafiel shakes her head “Not quite that far Jinto. We need the Empire and the sooner the Empire realizes they need us, the easier things will become.” Jinto looks confused Lafiel takes his hand “I promise I’ll explain all of this to you, just not right now. Jinto do you trust me to do the right thing?” Jinto nods, Lafiel continues “Thank you Jinto now let’s finish eating and get ready for the rest of the day. I feel it’s going to be a very productive one.”
Lafiel digs in and Jinto watches her. She finishes her meal and goes to leave the room before she does she says, “Have a good chat with Erin and remember to take notes I’d like to know what you two discuss.” She turns and walks away, Jinto notices for the first time in a long time Lafiel is completely relaxed, she gets this wiggle in her walk when she’s relaxed. Jinto watches her wiggle her way down the corridor. Finishing his meal he heads for Erin’s quarters, hoping Lafiel will keep her word and not hurt his friends.
*********
Sord Orion in the background and the Gauchen fueling depot ahead of them the Lashkau was two days from Sord Laitpanr. Kufadis sat on the bridge, not in the center seat, but his normal position. Since the almost battle at Vorash he had refused to sit in the seat, that chair rightfully belonged to someone else and until she returned it would remain empty. “Commodore refueling and restocking is complete your orders sir?” The snappy Decca Commander stood awaiting Kufadis words. Kufadis heaved a sigh and said, ”It’s Commander Kufadis, I no longer hold the rank of Commodore as for our next move, we will reenter the Sord.” “And return to the Capital at flank speed!” The voice from behind him, it couldn’t be but it was. He turned and there stood Admiral Spoor she looked well rested and a few pounds heavier. “I’m glad that promotion didn’t go to your head Kufadis, your acceptance of your demotion will be much easier it seems.” Spoor waltzed past him and sat in the center seat. The bridge crew was in shock. Spoor looked around then said, “I do believe I gave you an order Decca Commander could you carry it out before I die?” The Decca Commander inputted the co-ordinates into the computer, “Yes Admiral at once, Sord penetration in two hundred fifty seconds.” The Lashkau turned towards Sord Orion, formed a space-time bubble and disappeared.
Spoor stood, she left the center seat and headed for the lift as she passed Kufadis she said, “Follow me Kufadis.” He rose and joined her. The doors to the lift shut and Spoor said, “You did well Kufadis I’m proud of you, once I saw your course back home I knew you would refuel here so I decided to meet you, about an hour ago I got a very disturbing message, we will view it in my cabin.” The lift doors opened and Spoor and Kufadis headed for her quarters. Inside her quarters and with the door secured she played Kufadis Lafiel’s forwarded message.
Kufadis face went blank, then he watched the report again and said, “This means you’re in a lot of trouble doesn’t it Admiral?” Spoor, a look of concern on her face said, “I don’t know Kufadis, if Ramaj is deciding my fate, my life span maybe be very short. I do know that I want to speak with the Princess first, before I go to the Capital, that’s the plan for now, maintain communications blackout until we reach the Sord, I don’t think we can catch them in plane space. As far as fleet command is concerned this ship is headed for my home, no one knows I’ve left that gives us two days to become invisible before someone comes looking for us.”
Kufadis nods he presses a button on the comm. panel, the First Officer responds, “Admiral what can I do for you?” Kufadis speaks plainly into the panel. “Maintain communication black out until further notice.” The First Officer acknowledges the order and the link closes. Kufadis turns to Spoor “I’m assuming you plan on spending the rest of your time here and I’m commanding the ship?” Spoor nods, “Kufadis when you get off duty please join me here.” Kufadis leaves the room as he does he says, “I’m glad you’re back Admiral I did miss you.” Spoor replies “You’ll find out how much I missed you when you get off duty Commander.” Kufadis walks through the door it shuts behind him. He turns to head back to the bridge one thing plays through his mind he wonders if Ramaj would really kill the Admiral? He shakes off the thought and thinks about Spoor’s comment; his duty cycle is over in three hours, and for once he is rested. He smiles as he walks to the lift and heads for the bridge.
*********
Ekuryua greeted Sobbash at the docking bay and escorted her to the conference room. Ekuryua had managed to talk Lafiel out of using her quarters. This conference room was close to engineering the ambient background noises made it a perfect location to have a private discussion. Opening the door Sobbash found Lafiel sitting waiting for them. She and Ekuryua stepped through the door and Ekuryua set the do not disturb sign. Seeing this Sobbash commented, “I’m guessing we aren’t here to discuss the new village are we?” Lafiel shook her head “No we aren’t Admiral we are here to get to the bottom of an issue that’s been nagging at me for quite sometime. Once I’m convinced of what you, Spoor and Ekuryua were up to, then we are going to lay some new ground rules. Rules that will be obeyed on penalty of death.”Sobbash and Ekuryua explained their part in Spoor’s information gathering plan. They also explained that at the last they were being less and less forthcoming with the information being requested and the Spoor herself was also failing to forward information in a timely manner to her contacts. Lafiel sat taking all of this in, she only had a few questions.
“So Ekuryua you were reporting to Spoor and Sobbash am I correct?” Ekuryua nods “And Sobbash you were reporting to Spoor and Kenesh am I correct?” Sobbash nods. Lafiel continues “Then you are telling me that Spoor was in league with His Excellency until she figured out his target was me?” Sobbash looks at Ekuryua “Think we should share our thoughts?” Ekuryua nods “They are only conjecture but we believe Spoor was playing more than one side in this.”
Lafiel raised an eyebrow, “Really? And who else do you think she was reporting to?” Sobbash looks at Ekuryua she looks at Lafiel, “I believe it was either your Grandmother or Admiral Kenesh or maybe both.” Ekuryua pauses “Remember when you were trying to figure out how your father was always one step ahead of you? Wasn’t that the same information you shared with Admiral Spoor?”
Lafiel nods “So she’s been watching me since Clasbul, well that all ends here and now. I plan on becoming a separate entity, the planet is sovereign from this moment on and to show it’s a sovereign state I plan on changing the name of the planet, after I consult with Scholar and the council.” Sobbash and Ekuryua show no expressions on their faces, Lafiel’s words have taken them by surprise. Finally Sobbash gains the courage to ask, “So where does this leave Ekuryua and I? Do you want us to join you? Stay where we are? I am confused Lafiel.”
“I want your friendship and loyalty. No more little secret conversations. If there is a problem we discuss it out in the open. It’s either that or we terminate our relationship here and now. You get to choose your course from here on. I’ll hold no ill towards either of you if you want to decline my offer; however what we have discussed up until now is restricted information that only the three of us know. Unauthorized release of this and any further information carries a death sentence, which I’ll carry out personally. Is that understood?” They nod in acceptance of her statement.
Lafiel’s clam almost friendly tone to this conversation is what disturbs Sobbash and Ekuryua. They have never seen Lafiel this way before. Ablïarsec were noted for their cold ruthlessness, but Lafiel was warm, almost charming she never showed the raging anger that they had seen from her before. It was like they were dealing with Jinto. The forcefulness of her statements was implied but never shown. Now she sat before them calm and quiet, a peaceful look upon her face, it had them completely off guard.
Ekuryua and Sobbash sat looking at Lafiel then at each other, after a few moments they returned their gaze to Lafiel. Ekuryua spoke, “We accept your offer Your Highness with only one question. How will this affect our futures?” Lafiel leans back in the chair then comes forward to face them both. “The only change will be the lack of information forwarded, you no longer have to do that dirty chore. If it means a change in your career status I’ll be more than happy to supplement your losses. I’m assuming your promotions were based on you ability to forward information? If that is true then I can give you suitable responsibilities working on the planet with me.”
Ekuryua pales “I don’t want to lose the ship, I’ve worked so long and hard to.” Lafiel intervenes “You won’t lose it Noel. I’ll see to that. We will need some sort of protection and transportation won’t we?” She moves her attention to Sobbash. “You’re worried about Samson and the fuel depot aren’t you?” Sobbash nods. Lafiel smiles, “You keep forgetting my husband controls your future. You really think he’d give you two the boot?” Sobbash and Ekuryua are becoming aware of how far Lafiel is committing herself, to secure a future for them and those they care about. How can they not accept her offer, “Count me in Princess. I’ll follow you to the brink of hell and back.” Ekuryua nods “Count me in too, I started this adventure a long time ago. I’ll not rest peacefully until I see it’s ending.” The next several hours are spent in conversation covering all facets of their newfound relationship. Ending the conversation they part company, Sobbash returns to Samson, Ekuryua goes back to the bridge and Lafiel returns to her quarters.
Opening the door she finds Jinto resting on the bunk and a stack of notes on the table. One page draws her interest immediately; it contains Erin’s sketch of the planet and one word written in Sol Erosion below it. Jinto had opened the translator on the desk and queried for the translation of the word into Abh. It word would not translate; Lafiel accessed the unit and asked for the meaning of the word.
The computer responded: “Shahrazad, is a legendary Persian queen [Old Earth] and the storyteller of the book of One Thousand and One Nights, also known as the Arabian Nights.” Lafiel had heard of this work of literature from Jinto, it was one of his favorites. Reading the explanation she understood Jinto’s love of the book and Erin’s desire to name the planet Shahrazad.
“Shahrazad had perused the books, annals and legends of preceding Kings, and the stories, examples and instances of by gone men and things; indeed it was said that she had collected a thousand books of histories relating to antique races and departed rulers. She had perused the works of the poets and knew them by heart; she had studied philosophy and the sciences, arts and accomplish meets; and she was pleasant and polite, wise and witty, well read and well bred.”
“Against her father's protestations, Shahrazad volunteered to spend one night with the King. Once in the King's chambers, Shahrazad asked if she might bid one last farewell to her beloved sister, Dunyazad, who had secretly been prepared to ask Shahrazad to tell a story during the long night. The King lay awake and listened with awe to Shahrazad's first story and asked for another, but Shahrazad said there wasn't time as dawn was breaking, and regretfully so, as the next story was even more exciting.”
“And so the King kept Shahrazad alive as he eagerly anticipated each new story, until, one thousand and one adventurous nights, and three sons later, the King had not only been entertained but wisely educated in morality and kindness by Shahrazad who became his Queen.”
Lafiel ponders this explanation of the book; it was what she wanted for the residence and for all of those around her, a new time of enlightenment, exploration and hope, although she did not completely agree with the entire story. Its premise was a good starting point, to become well educated and well versed that is what Lafiel wanted. Considering what the database retrieved from Sol-Eros contained it would be possible to combine it and the Imperial one and have the renaissance Lafiel was hoping for.
Jinto awoke to find Lafiel staring at the computer terminal. He quietly moved over to her side and saw what she was reading. “I see you found Erin’s note.” Lafiel sat staring, she had sensed his movement so his words came as no surprise. “I understand what I’m reading but the first part about the King killing off each nights lover disturbs me.”
Jinto reaches across her shoulder and pressed a data link the following is displayed, “Shahryar would marry a new virgin, and every day he would send yesterday's wife to be beheaded. This was done in anger; having found out that his first wife was betraying him. He had killed three thousand such women by the time he was introduced to Shahrazad, the Vizier's daughter.” Lafiel read this and was very upset at its implications.
“Your ancestors acted in this way? Life meant nothing to them? And you dare call yourself civilized?” Jinto looked at her, “You’ve got a lot of room to speak, a member of a race that feared a never to be reprisal and destroyed millions on a space city, then consoled your own guilt quietly. At least when my ancestors made mistakes, somebody put them in print for others to learn from.”
Lafiel stopped the blow just before it would have hit Jinto face. Her hand returned to her side, the expression on anger that had instantly appeared on her face left, she stood stiff, silent, not sure of her next move. Jinto was amazed, he figured by now his face would be smarting. This time her movements had been too quick to block, had she connected he’d been on the floor now. Casting caution to the wind he stepped back into Lafiel’s swinging range. She stood staring at him, the wall and anything else in that line of sight. Jinto stood in front of her, placed his hands around her middle and gently pulled her towards him. For a moment she didn’t budge, then as suddenly as she had swung at him she fell into his chest. She never made a sound but the wetness on Jinto’s chest told him more than any words could.
“I’m sorry Lafiel, I wasn’t thinking. You’ve quietly carried that fact with in you for years and I know how much it disturbs you to have the subject brought up. I used a bad analogy, can you forgive me?” Lafiel removes her head from his chest and looks him in the eye, “Jinto, the truth is the truth, and I was the unthinking one, my arrogance got in the way, again. You are correct neither of our races are perfect, we have made mistakes and me blaming you for what your ancestors did was pretty petty. I do accept your apology if you’ll accept mine.” Jinto nods, “So you like the name?” Lafiel smiles, “Yes Jinto it’s beautiful.” “You know it doesn’t translated to Abh.”
Lafiel places her head on his shoulder. “I know Jinto. If the Capital wants a translation, I’ll see if Scholar can come up with one. Right now it feels right, that’s all that matters to me right now, how things feel. I think you’ll like what Ekuryua, Sobbash and I came up with it felt right too.” She proceeds to explain the conversation that she had with them. Jinto stands in amazement. Lafiel did what he would have, get to the bottom of it, then forgive them for their mistakes and make sure nothing like that would happen again. Lafiel even left them with a bit of conscious, making sure they realized their fate could have been much worse.
“I’m glad my faith in you was well placed Lafiel, you have master the art of negotiating. I do trust you Lafiel, its just makes me a bit nervous to have you ordering me off to another woman's quarters for safe keeping is all." Lafiel backs up and looks Jinto in the eye, “You’re more perceptive that I thought Jinto, it’s true I get nervous when you’re around and seeing that you and Erin got along a lot better than she and I did, I figured it was better for you to talk with her on the subjects of the village and such. But I never meant it to seem I was sending you to another woman to get you out of my hair.”
Jinto finally blinked. He figured his comment would have started a battle. Instead it invoked a very honest and heartfelt answer from Lafiel. “Then you want me to continue consulting with Erin on all the matters pertaining to the village?” Lafiel nods “Yes I do. When you have everything planned out the four of us will get together and iron out the details. Jinto, I’m counting on you to make this a very pleasant event. I want these people to feel like this always was their home.”
Lafiel’s creunoc starts flashing, she answers it, “Yes Ekuryua what is it?” “We’re home Princess. Sord exit in forty-five minutes.” “Crap! We’re home already Jinto! Why did we have to spend all day sleeping?” Jinto places his hand over her mouth and points to the flashing creunoc. Lafiel nods “Thank you Commander, inform me when we are in communications range of my brothers ship.” From the creunoc Ekuryua could no longer hold in her laughter, forcing the words out she replied, “Yes. Your Highness I’ll notify you. I’m guessing you’ll be awake to accept the communication?” Lafiel’s looks sour for a moment then she says, “Of course, unless you want to try to communicate with my brother. Remember he does not have my sense of humor.” There was silence then “Understood Ekuryua out.” The light faded out.
Ekuryua switch off her creunoc and turned to the tactical officer, “Scan the Sord exit, identify all ship in the area.” She turns to the communications officer “Get me Admiral Sobbash.” The main viewer displays Sobbash’s face; Ekuryua sat in the center seat “We have arrived, how should we enter normal space?” Sobbash ponders then says, “The lead ships first, then the transports, follow by your ship.” The tactical officer reports there are no ships with in one half light year of the Sord. “You heard that? Do we enter in defensive mode or not?” Sobbash leans forward to view her own display. “Let’s be on alert, but as to coming into home space fully armed and ready for combat. I don’t think so.” Ekuryua nods. “Remind me next time we see each other, I have a funny story to tell you.” Sobbash nods and the link close.
*********
It was the part of the orbit that places the planet between Duhiel’s ship and the Sord. Emerging into the view of the Sord he is surprised to find several ships have exited the Sord and they are heading directly for him. Scanning he finds there are four attack frigates, two transports, a research and hospital ships. The last attack frigate bears the identifier of the ship Commander Ekuryua commands, it’s still a few hours from the planet and communications should be coming from it very soon. No more did the thought pass his mind the communications officer announced that they were being hailed. The main display flickered and buzzed then Lafiel’s face was seen, “Hello Duhiel, I’ll make this short. I’m back we’ll talk in person when I get there. You understand what I’m saying brother of mine?” Duhiel nods “Yes Lafiel, I’ll wait till I see you and then we will talk as always.” The display goes blank. Duhiel goes to leave the bridge his First Officer stops him, “Captain what about your Father, aren’t you going to tell him she has returned?” Duhiel stares him in the face, “My Father will find out, after, my sister and I have talked, not one second before that, is that understood?” His First Officer nods and Duhiel continues, “That is good. I know how loyal to my Father you are but, I command this ship and since you are NOT of my clan, you will obey my orders or transfer off this ship. Do you understand me?” His First Officer nods and walks away. Duhiel leans over to the communications officer, “No signals leave this ship without my permission. Do you understand?” The Communications officer nods “Understood Captain.”
Duhiel leaves the bridge and heads for his quarters, once there he sets his console to the private family code and awaits Lafiel’s real message it doesn’t take very long to appear. Duhiel opens it and reads it carefully; it contains a warning from Lafiel to him.
“My plans have always included you becoming Emperor someday, I’ve done and I am about to do something’s that might jeopardize that if you knew of them. Brother, you have a decision to make, stay in orbit and take the chance of losing the throne or depart before I arrive and keep my hopes for you alive. It is your decision, one fact I’ll make you aware of Jinto and I have had the ceremony, it is official, well at least as far as we are concerned. I want to tell you everything that has happened since I last saw you but there are things that you should not know. I’ll watch for your answer, your ships actions will tell the tale. My love always, Lafiel.”
Switching off the console Duhiel rises from his seat and moves to his bunk. Lying down he stares at the ceiling, Lafiel’s word still buzzing in his brain, the decision he’s dreaded now faces him. His personal ambitions, his sisters wishes, they now tear at him. Since he was able to understand he’s been groomed to sit on the Jade throne. Now Lafiel has done something that might jeopardize that from happening if he remains in orbit and talks with her. It’s been a long time since they have had a chance to just sit and talk.
“Lafiel why have you always had this knack of attracting trouble to yourself? This time I’m doing things my way let the chips fall as they may.” Duhiel rethinks his last outburst, bringing his creunoc to a comfortable reading position then he reviews the present group of candidates for the position of Imperial Admiral of the Fleet. They are a sorry lot, not one of them has shown any of the ambition that is required to be recommended to become the next ruler of the Empire. His class will soon be promoted and then thrown into this competition. He and one other have a serious chance of making it to the clan evaluations. What worries him is this officer’s view on the present state of the Empire. She would dismantle all the changes his grandmother and Admiral Kenesh have instilled since Dusanyu’s untimely death. Those views hold a popular notion with some of the clans and disgust from the others.
Duhiel gazes at the ceiling, the thought of this woman getting to the Jade throne abhors him. Keying in a set of codes into his creunoc the next voice he hears is Debeusec’s “Duhiel what is the nature of your call my son?” “Father how important is it that I sit on the Jade throne?” there is no hesitation in Debeusec’s response, “My son the very future of the Empire as we know it might rest on your ability to seize the Jade throne in open and honest competition.” Duhiel absorbs Debeusec’s word then he says, “Father Lafiel is back. She has requested that I leave the planet before she arrives. I will not discuss the reasons because I’m not completely aware of them. However Father putting the throne between me and her is quite unfair.”
Debeusec stops him cold, “Son listen to me and listen well, you have known that being born into this clan brings things most others do not have to contend with. Lafiel had her chance to ascend to the throne she chose this path she’s now on. You have the same choices before you, however, son look at the big picture. This Empire will soon need some one to lead and unify it. I believe you, my son are that person; your sister has warned you, heed her warning. She’s depending on you to rule, to be her ally in her endeavors, but the Empire must come first, that means you may have to disappoint Lafiel which can’t be helped.”
Duhiel has heard his Father’s words they have helped in his decision. “Thank you Father, I’ll be leaving orbit soon. If you’ll send me your present position I’ll meet with you, there are some things we need to speak of face to face.” Coordinates appear on Duhiel’s creunoc then the signal disappears. Turning sideways and placing his feet back on the floor he leaves his quarters and returns to the bridge. Entering the command section he shows the navigator the coordinates his Father sent him. “Plot the course and depart as soon as possible.” Maintaining communications blackout” on the backside of the planet, Duhiel’s attack frigate departs.
*********
Ekuryua sits in the center seat as Scholar speaks, “Captain the ship orbiting the planet has departed at high speed this is the course projection.” Scholar projects the course on the display it leads to a large fleet of ships. “Can you identify that fleet Scholar?” The data appears on the display when Ekuryua sees the Commanding Admirals name; she excuses herself from the bridge. Scholar consults the ships database and finds who those two people are; she too leaves the bridge and heads for her quarters. After a short conversation with Erin and the council she goes looking for Lafiel.Ekuryua left the lift and headed for Lafiel’s quarters, Jinto opened the door and let her in. “Yes Ekuryua what is it? Lafiel enquires. “Your brother just blasted out of orbit, he’s heading to these coordinates.” She shows Lafiel, her creunoc. Lafiel studies it and frowns “I see Captain, how soon till we reach orbit?” Ekuryua presses a button on the device “About one hour Your Highness.” Lafiel nods, she has a distant look upon her face. Ekuryua goes to leave stops and turns back to Lafiel, “I know its probably none of my business, but is there something else you might want to tell me Lafiel?” Lafiel raises her gaze to meet Ekuryua’s eyes for the first time she sees the unlimited depths of Lafiel’s soul, the sight scares her, ”No you’re not being nosey Noel, I hoped he would leave orbit. However his making a beeline to my Father was unexpected. I hope, I’m still reading my brother right. I hope nothing has changed between us.”
She turns away from her. Jinto walks over to Noel “I think you should leave now. I’ll see you to the lift.” They open the door and leave rounding the corner they find Scholar headed their way, “I need to see the Princess.” Scholar said. Jinto stopped her “Now is not a good time, is there anything I can answer?” Scholar nods “Explain this sudden rushing about, the ships A.I. unit is even feeling caution.” Jinto takes them both to a small conference room and sits them down. Securing the door behind them he says, “Ask your questions, I’ll answer what I can. The rest will have to wait for Lafiel to answer.” Ekuryua sat Scholar asked the one pressing question which Jinto could answer “Are we in danger?” Jinto shook his head, “No we are not in any danger.”
He then proceeded to explain Lafiel communication between her and her brother, their relationship, as he understood it and Lafiel’s surprise that her brother is on his way to her father. Finally he explained as much as he dared of Lafiel’s relationship with her father.
“Right now the plan is to get you settled on the planet and then handle what comes our way.” Scholar nods “I agree once planet side we should be fairly secure and we will have the advantage of being on such an important planet.” Ekuryua sits thinking, “That look Lafiel had it gave me the creeps.” She looks at Jinto “She’s going to be alright isn’t she?” Jinto nods “Yeah she’ll be just fine, it’s just that she doesn’t take to surprises well and you brought her one hell of a surprise.” Ekuryua nods “Maybe in the future I should clear all surprises through you first?” Jinto smiles “That won’t be necessary keeping things from her is worse than just telling her. She just has a lot on her mind I believe you hit the overload limit that’s all.”
Scholar and Ekuryua both nod then Scholar addresses Jinto, “Thank you for trying to set the record straight. I’m sure there are things you know about our present situation that you can’t discuss right now and I understand that. I’ll go communicate with Erin and the Council, how soon till the village is ready?” Jinto consults his creunoc “Barring any complications seventy two hours from the time the reactor is installed. This time we do have enough manpower available.”
Scholar smiles, ”Does that mean we help set up the village?” Jinto shakes his head “Its not necessary, Admiral Sobbash has a complete construction crew aboard the other transport along with the building materials. Now if you want to watch?” Scholar nods “I do believe we would like to watch, I’ll check with the Council to make sure.” Jinto asks if there are any further questions, there are none. Ekuryua and Scholar return to the bridge, Jinto returns to his quarters.
Continued in next post
