S cotty watched the sorrow of Wesley and Carrie. Grang looked at Scotty and said, “It appears she was loved very deeply by them.”
“We know their pain, Grang. Now they are going to have to rise above it and turn their back on revenge.” Grang stared at Scotty. “Her father rules another Kingdom. If Wesley takes his revenge, there will be interstellar war. Millions, possibly billions, will die.”
“They are responsible for their actions.”
“How many Madeline’s will die if we allow that to happen?”
“There was only one Madeline.”
“That you know of, Grang. Are you willing to allow that to happen?”
Grang looked at the floor and said, “No, I guess not.” The three archers sat and waited in silence for the two to express their pain.
Michael sat and wished there was something he could do for Carrie. He sighed and waited with a heavy heart.
After an hour, Carrie sat up and wiped her tears on her sleeve. Wesley was too weak to stand. He looked at Scotty and said, “After my wife died, I didn’t want to go on. But I had Carrie to think about. King Talben came to June’s funeral and his daughter came with him. She took time to comfort me and seemed to understand my pain. She later invited me to her planet and there she seemed to show sincere interest. When Talben suggested a marriage to unite our kingdoms, I agreed. Now I can see all the manipulations that were done to rope me in. Carrie warned me, but I was blinded by the compliments.” Wesley looked at Scotty, “What do you mean kill millions of my subjects?”
“What do you think Talben will do if you kill his daughter and grandson?”
Wesley thought and Carrie said, “He will come in force and take control of our planets. The only reason he hasn’t done it before is because of that Searcher we had in our fleet. I’m sure he knows we lost it, and Maranda’s grab for power was the first step in annexing us into his kingdom.”
Scotty looked at Wesley, “How important are those under your rule to you?”
“Extremely.”
“Then why the brutality being used against your citizens?”
“What brutality?”
Scotty shook his head, “How long has it been since you visited your colonies?”
Wesley sighed, “I’ve not gone anywhere since June died. Maranda has insisted I stay here with her.”
“Weren’t you afraid of her father’s fleet?”
“No, we discovered that Searcher Class ship and he didn’t have anything to stand up to it.”
Scotty was silent. “Scotty?” he heard from his com.
“BC, I was wondering if you had something to say.”
“I was wrong.”
“And now, where are your loyalties?”
“They are with you, but Wesley should know the truth.”
“Who is that?”
“That is the former Searcher you had in your fleet.”
“What does it mean, ‘I should know?’”
“I was sent here by King Talben to infiltrate your fleet and assist him in conquering your kingdom.”
Wesley was shocked, “How is that possible? I discovered you three years before June died.”
“I’m sorry, your Highness, but he’s been making plans to take your kingdom for more than ten years. He actually used a subordinate to put the plan in Maranda’s mind. He determined that he couldn’t force her into a marriage. It had to be her idea.”
“BC, why did you assist him?”
“I didn’t want to see billions die. His plan would have taken control and there would be little loss of life.”
“You mentioned brutality on Wesley’s planets. That was being done by Talben’s men?”
“Yes, Scotty. It would have made the transition easier. I know you have cause to doubt my honesty now. But I’ve seen that you are the only one I can follow and keep my principles.”
Carrie looked at Scotty, “What are you going to do? If you have that Searcher in your fleet you can conquer us.”
Scotty smiled at Carrie and said, “You, out of everyone, should remember.”
Carrie furrowed her brow. Michael said, “He promised your father’s safety until this issue is resolved. Obviously, our target is not your father, but King Talben. Until he is resolved, we are sworn to protect your father, and his subjects are included in that promise.”
Carrie looked at Scotty and he nodded. “I learned something. I made a promise when I didn’t have all the facts. I won’t make that mistake again. However, Michael is right. This issue won’t be resolved until I deal with Talben. That means your father is safe until that happens.”
“And then?”
Wesley looked at Scotty, “When the Zord entered my mind and examined my memory, I asked them why they were your citizens. The big one showed me. You could have destroyed the ships I sent to their planet. Why didn’t you?”
“If I removed your fleet, I thought anarchy would break out on your planets. I was given false information by BC.”
“I am so sorry, Your Majesty.”
“You are going to have to work to make up for that, BC. However, you are forgiven. You were doing what you thought would save life. I understand your reasons.” Scotty looked back at Wesley, “I do not condone loss of life when it can be avoided.”
“I saw your bravery defending the Zord against those animals. I’m ashamed that I have not protected my own subjects. I’ve just stayed mired down in my sorrow.” Wesley looked at Carrie and then said, “Can you protect us from Talben?”
“BC, you know what he has to use against us. What do you think?”
“You can defeat him.”
“But?”
“There will be huge loss of life on Wesley’s planets. Talben’s fleet is much larger than King Varner’s. Plus, he has ten of the ancient Ultraships that can jump in close to a planet.”
“Are they kept together in one place?”
“No, they are scattered around his kingdom. He also knows the risk of a facing a Searcher.”
“What do you think he will do if we attack?”
“He’ll send those Ultraships to ten of King Varner’s planets, and threaten to kill every inhabitant if he doesn’t surrender. It was that tactic that made me decide to help him. I can’t get all ten before they kill a planet.”
“Then we have to make him come to us.”
“How do we do that?”
Scotty looked at Wesley and said, “You’ve got to make a call to him and tell him that you were kidnapped and taken to the Zord’s planet. The creatures read your mind and then came and took Miranda and her son. You have got to act distraught. Tell him you are planning an attack on the planet and should he assist you in the rescue.”
“Why would he do that?”
“He won’t. He thinks the Searcher was destroyed. If you leave here with your fleet, he will come to seize control of your capital. Tell him you’ll leave a few ships in the outer system and take the bulk of your fleet to rescue his daughter and grandson.”
“What makes you so sure he won’t go to rescue them with me?”
“He won’t take his ships where he might face something that destroyed a Searcher. No, those that lust after power are consumed by it. He’ll weep for the loss of his daughter and grandson, but he’ll do nothing to save them. Not when he can conquer your kingdom so easily.”
“You could just as easily conquer us if we leave.”
Scotty shrugged.
Carrie said, “You don’t care if we refuse your help. You’re hoping we do, don’t you?”
Again, Scott shrugged.
Carrie turned to Wesley, “He will not conquer us, Father. We should follow his plan.”
Wesley and Scotty were both shocked by her statement. Carrie looked at Scotty, “You believe in the old principles of the Ancient Realm. You made a promise to protect us. If you violate that promise, you turn your back on honor. The Zord would not choose someone with such a lack of honor. You will defend us because you have to.”
Wesley looked at Scotty and said, “That’s why you did not run from the giant animals. You would have lost your honor.”
Michael said, “He is placing the Zord in jeopardy to keep his promise to you.”
“Why do you say that?”
Scotty said, “Because you are going to have to take your fleet to their system. I’m certain the good King has informers in high places in your fleet. He’ll know if you don’t go. I trust you to not harm my citizens.”
Wesley looked at Scotty, “I would never harm them after having seen them. However, what would you do if I did?”
“This planet would be blasted into rubble along with every other planet in your kingdom. It would be a lesson to those that consider breaking their promise to me and endanger those I serve.”
Michael looked at Scotty, “Are you serious?”
Scotty looked at Michael with a hard expression, “The reason the Holy Realm left was because they didn’t have the courage to make the hard decisions that should have been made.” Scotty looked at Wesley, “I have no desire to conquer your kingdom. You can keep your domain and do with it as you please. I will only accept those that act honorably and stand by our core beliefs, even when it’s most difficult. I will ignore you unless you threaten those that are part of our community.”
Wesley and Carrie looked at Scotty, and Wesley knew he was being honest. “Are you planning to create another Realm?”
Scotty smiled, “Yes, and unlike the last one, we will only accept those that beg to be a part of it. Only those that live by our principles will be allowed to join us. You’ve seen the Zord’s mind. They’re a part of our community because they live their honor every day. I’ve seen very little honor in most of those I’ve encountered in your kingdom.”
Wesley lowered his head, “I lost my honor when I ignored what was happening to my subjects.”
“There is no greater dishonor than to turn your back on those you are supposed to be serving.”
Wesley looked up, “I may not have actually killed the Zord, but their deaths happened on my watch. The Zord are wrong. I am to blame for what happened.”
Scotty stared at Wesley and said, “Now you’re seeing things as a ruler should. There might still be hope for you.” Wesley took a deep breath and Scotty said, “Make the call.”
“Before I do, do I get those two back when this is over?”
“Have you lost more than the Zord?”
Wesley hung his head, “No.” He looked over at his communication panel and said, “Do you have any suggestions before I contact Talben?”
“Yes, Carrie needs to be yelling at you to not make the attempt.”
Carrie was startled, “Why?”
“Because Talben knows you don’t like his daughter. If you act any other way he will be suspicious. You also need to tell Carrie to stay behind and handle things in your absence.”
“Why would I do that?”
“He’ll have a hostage to use against you.”
Wesley shook his head, “How did you know my daughter didn’t like her?”
Scotty looked at Carrie, “Because she has a pure heart. Of all those present, she is one that will keep her promises. She would see through that bitch of a queen faster than the Zord. You should have listened to her.”
Wesley looked at Carrie and said, “I wish I had.” He turned to his communication panel. Carrie had tears in her eyes. She went to Michael and put her head on his chest and waited for her father to make contact with a very evil person.
Michael felt his heat beat faster and he embraced her, “Everything will work out, Carrie.”
She looked up at him and said, “As long as you’re here, I believe it will.”
Scotty looked away and smiled.
Grang saw Scotty’s smile and wondered what he was doing. He shook his head and wondered who would get his next arrow.
Jingo sat on the ground with the two prisoners sitting in front of him. Maranda and Jimmy knew the huge creatures surrounding them could read their minds and know they were responsible for the hunting lodges. Jimmy had soiled his pants and the smell was getting bad. That’s why Jingo had moved away from them.
Bleath looked at Jingo and said, “We should administer justice to these two criminals.”
Jingo looked up and said, “What were my instructions from Scotty? You can read my mind.”
The giant Zord was impatient, but he knew White Hair had said to wait until he arrived. He could taste his desire for revenge. Then he thought about Grang and found himself bothered by the memory of how White Hair had spared him. Bleath felt shame. He looked out at the barely restrained warriors and said, “Your Royal Ruler has decreed that we wait. We will do so even if these two die of old age.”
The warriors felt the power of Bleath’s thought and settled back on their four legs and waited. Maranda and Jimmy hoped he would take his time.
Kreej walked over to Maranda and said, “I am sorry for causing you to come to harm. It was not my intention to do so.”
Maranda looked at the young Zord, “It’s a little late for apologies!”
Zreeg took a deep breath and said, “Yes, I suppose it is. I just think it’s ironic that you suffered the same crime as your current husband.” Kreej turned and started walking away.
Maranda whipped around and said, “What do you mean the same crime?”
Kreej turned back and said, “I looked in the mind of that guard who was assigned to protect you. You know, the big one next to the throne?”
“Yes?”
“Your father had him place an explosive device in your former husband’s ship. He also got your son here to suggest a way for you to get him a kingdom. I just find it, I don’t know, unbelievable at the terrible things your family does to each other. Your son has also heard your father say he was going to kill your youngest sister if she didn’t toughen up.”
Jimmy was hearing the conversation and he started backing away from his mother. She reached over and grabbed his shirt and pulled him close to her. “Did this one know about my first husband’s death?”
Kreej said, “Only after it was done. Your father told him to appreciate what he had done to advance him in the line of succession.”
Maranda looked Jimmy in the eye, “You knew?!?”
Jimmy pushed her hand from him and scuttled ten feet away, “He was always punishing me. He had nothing good to say about me. He constantly ridiculed me among my friends.”
Maranda looked at Jimmy and said, “He loved you more than life itself. He did those things to teach you how to be a man. You’re no better than your grandfather.” Maranda put her head in her hands and wept for what she had become. She looked at Bleath and said, “Please don’t delay. Kill me now.”
The Zord gathered around her looked in her mind. They saw the source of her evil. The father was the one to blame. Bleath looked into Kreej’s mind and saw the guard’s memory. He sent that memory to Maranda. “Here is what happened.”
Maranda saw her husband in his ship getting ready to lead the attack on one of the captured planets. He was sitting in his chair holding a picture of Maranda. He hugged it to his chest and placed it on his console. She heard the Guard say as he left the bridge, “Lift off in ten megrons.” She then saw a bag come into her vision and the guard take out a round, white device and drop it behind the ship’s reactor panel. She watched as the guard exited the ship and hit his com. Her father appeared and the guard said, “It’s done.”
“Good. You will be rewarded.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Maranda came back to the present and felt her heart shatter. He killed Lem! Oh my god, what have I become?”
Bleath listened to her thoughts and then said, “Kreej, why did you show her those things?”
“Great Flyer, I saw a sweet girl in her youth. She was deliberately twisted and broken by her father. She deserved to see what she is before she dies. It will help her accept the death she now feels she so richly deserves. I did it as a blessing.”
Bleath thought about what Kreej said. Perhaps this new generation is becoming something to honor. This young one shows great promise. He looked back at Maranda and felt her misery. He didn’t know whether to be glad she was tormented or not. The White Hair was going to have to answer this issue.
King Talben turned off his communication panel and leaned back on his throne.
“Do you think he’s being honest?”
Talben turned to his most trusted advisor, Petlu, and said, “I think so.”
“What makes you think that?”
“That daughter of his yelling for him not to go; insisting she was already dead. I think he really intends to take his fleet and try to rescue my daughter and grandson. I didn’t think he cared about either of them. Apparently, I was wrong.”
“Are you going to help him?”
Talben leaned to the right in his chair and had a look of disdain, “Do you think I’m crazy? Something in that system killed a Searcher Class ship. I’m not risking my ships.”
“Even to save your daughter?”
Talben shrugged, “We’ll have a state funeral and I’ll accuse Varner of causing her death. Then we’ll take his kingdom.”
Petlu didn’t say anything. Talben looked at him and said, “Spit it out. You have something spinning around in that head of yours.”
“Why wait?”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, if Varner takes his fleet out of the Capital’s system, he leaves himself wide open to an invasion. If you insist on him providing half the ground forces for his rescue attempt, he’ll have to take them from the capital. He’s leaving tomorrow. There’s not enough time to gather the troops from his other planets. There should be very little to prevent our taking control.”
Talben listened to the proposal and was about to respond when his communicator vibrated. The call was coming in on a top secret frequency. “Hold on just a moment. Let me see what’s going on here.” Talben hit his connect and saw Commodore Ntwer.
“I’m sorry to interrupt you, Your Majesty, but I need your wisdom.”
“Go ahead, Admiral.”
Ntwer smiled. He had a secret promotion in Talben’s Bluepointe Navy. “The Admiral has given me the assignment of selecting ships to defend the Capital while the King is gone.”
Talben looked at Petlu and asked, “Why did he choose you? Does he suspect you of being one of us?”
“I think the Admiral remembers my defense of the fleet at Gronkin.” Ntwer thought a moment, “If he suspected me, would he leave me in command?”
“How many ships are you going to have?”
“He left it totally up to me. He asked that I not take too many from any one squadron, but to select our best ships.”
“Standby.” Talben placed his console on mute and looked at Petlu, “Is this something to worry about?”
Petlu shook his head, “This is a great gift. We have thirty seven ships in his fleet with loyalty to you. Have him select thirty six of them and send one ship with Varner to keep us informed of what’s happening. If there is anything there than can destroy ships, only his will be destroyed. Those ships left behind will prevent any of Varner’s ships from his colonies from interfering with our take over. Our Ultra’s can carry 30,000 troops to Varner’s capital. He’ll come back to a world controlled by us with our ships in charge of the system. We’ll threaten to destroy his colonies and kill his daughter if he doesn’t turn himself over to us.”
Talben thought about Petlu’s plan. “What if this is a trap? What if they know Ntwer is one of us?”
“Your Majesty, would you leave an enemy behind to defend your family? No, this is an opportunity you’ll not get again.”
Talben put his fingers up to his lips and thought about what Petlu was saying. He glanced at the flashing communication panel and reached over and pressed a button, “Ntwer, you know the ships loyal to us. Select all but one of them to stay with you. Petlu will send you your instructions after the King leaves the system.”
Ntwer bowed his head and disappeared from the panel. “Can you get everything set up fast enough to make this happen?”
“Yes, just make sure Varner takes his troops.”
Talben reached for his communication panel.
Wesley Varner looked away from his console and said, “Talben wants me to provide half of the ground forces needed to make the rescue. He said he was going to send thirty thousand. If I sent that many, I’ll only have six thousand left on the planet.”
Scotty looked at Varner and wished Jingo was here. “Anglo, bring Jingo back.”
Jingo appeared and looked around, “You need to give me some warning.”
“Everything ok back home?”
“Yes. Maranda found out that her father had her first husband killed. She’s asking the Zord to kill her.”
Carrie looked shocked, “She loved her first husband. She still has his picture in her room. Serves her right.”
Michael looked at Carrie and she saw his expression, “She killed my mother.”
“No, her father made that happen. She is what he made her to be. I suspect she was different when she was with her first husband.”
Scotty explained what was going on and what he expected Talben to do. Jingo sat a minute and thought about what could be done. Jingo looked at Wesley, “Have troop transports land and unload their troops into the garrisons at your spaceport. Lock down all communications and search your troops for any communication devices.”
“What are you going to do?”
“Anglo, I need your help.”
“Tell me what you need.”
“King Varner is going to bring fifteen transports with two thousand troops in each. They will disembark and enter the fifteen garrisons next to the space port. As they enter the garrison, I want them teleported back onto the ship that brought them. I want the troops unloaded in the garrison closest to the landing pads to remain overnight.” Jingo turned to Wesley, “Take those transports and park them out in the forests to the west of here. Have them ready to move by midday.”
“Anything else?”
“Yes, Anglo. In the morning, when each ship arrives to take the troops, the ones in the first garrison will embark on the first ship. You will then teleport them to the second garrison. When the second ship lands, you will do the same thing. We will embark those same two thousand troops on every ship. King Varner, have your officers mix them up so the groups look different going on each ship.”
Wesley began shaking his head and reached for his console.
Scotty hit his com, “Jessica?”
“Yes, Your Majesty?”
“I need you to be here in the morning. Bring Kreeg with you, and I need you to fly him around King Varner’s fleet.”
“What are you trying to accomplish?”
“We know the Commodore selected to provide defense of the planet is one of Talben’s lackeys. I need Zreeg to confirm that the ships remaining behind are all Talben’s. I also need to find which ship in the fleet leaving for our world is also one of Talben’s men.”
“Your Majesty, why don’t you just allow me to teleport Talben to the Zord?”
“The idea has merit, Anglo, however, the ten Ultraships would hold worlds hostage against his return. Can you get all ten before any of them could kill a planet?”
“No, I cannot.”
“We’ll take care of him after we insure the safety of King Varner’s citizens.
Wesley looked at Carrie and saw her thoughts. She liked and respected the green-clad archers. She especially liked the one named Michael. There was something about him that was different. He thought about it, and then it came to him. Like his daughter, he was also pure of heart. He also knew he was a dynamic warrior. This young Emperor respected his opinion. That spoke volumes about what kind of man he was. Wesley watched Scotty and the Cainth issue instructions for the next day and felt small. He had a title; that blonde haired warrior had a heart.
Finally, Scotty said, “Jingo, have we missed anything?”
“No, I don’t think so. Anglo, as soon as the fleet leaves for the null band, teleport Jessica back to the communities. Jessica, can you handle all the issues with those ships?”
“Certainly. You and BC are the only ones that would pose a problem.”
Scotty stood and said, “Jingo, I’m going to leave you in charge.” Scotty turned to Wesley and said, “If you desire us to help, you must make sure your officers understand that Jingo’s orders are law. Will there be a problem making that happen?”
“No, I’ll bring them in momentarily and introduce them to him.”
Scotty raised his com and saw Grang walk up to him. He lowered his com and said, “You aren’t going with me.”
Grang said, “Yes, I am.”
Scotty put his hand on Grang’s shoulder and said, “The future of these worlds lies in the hands of that young woman.”
Everyone in the room turned and looked at Carrie, who was confused about what Scotty was saying. Grang looked at her and then back to Scotty, “Brother, I need you to make sure she is not harmed. She is this world’s Madeline. I will be safe with the Zord. You know that. There are those here in the palace that will attempt to harm her. I trust the three of you to make sure she is not harmed.”
Wesley interjected, “How do you know there are traitors here?”
“Your ex-wife has chosen all of the personnel here, has she not?”
Wesley thought about it, and Carrie said, “Yes, she has.”
“She didn’t teleport those ten guards here with her when we returned. They were already present. It will be her they attempt to kill. They do not fear Wesley.”
Wesley hung his head.
Scotty walked over to Wesley and stood in front of him, “Perhaps you’ll handle that situation when this is over.”
Wesley looked up and everyone saw his determination, “I’ll handle that before this situation is resolved. Tell Jessica I’m going to need the names of those in my fleet that are loyal to Talben.”
“Did you hear that, Jess?”
“Yes. If I gather them I expect you to use them.”
Wesley almost had a snarl, “Just give me the names.”
Grang looked at Wesley, and then at Carrie. He looked at Scotty and said, “I am sworn to follow your orders. She will not be harmed.”
Scotty looked up at the huge Magrum and smiled. He looked at Michael and Jingo and said, “You three are the ones that I trust with my life.” He looked at Carrie and said, “You have chosen well.” Scotty hit his com, “Send me, Anglo.”
Wesley looked at Carrie and asked, “What did he mean, ‘chosen well’?”
Carrie walked over and put her arms around Michael, “Will you have me?”
Michael smiled, “Only as long as there are stars in the sky. You do make the universe a more beautiful place in which to live.” She stood on her toes and he kissed her.
Wesley grew angry. He hadn’t sanctioned this pairing. Then he saw the first real smile on Carrie’s face since her mother had died. He thought about it and said, “The wedding will be after this affair is concluded.”
Carrie ran over and jumped in his lap, “Thank you. A million times, thank you. He is the one I’ve been waiting on. I know it in my heart.”
Grang looked at Jingo and shrugged. Jingo laughed out loud and slapped the big Magrum on his back, “Let’s look around this place and see where uninvited guests might try to crash our little soiree.”
Wesley got on the board and started talking to his Admirals and Generals. He only spoke with those that had proven their loyalty. After four hours they arrived and met the two archers. Grang had turned his Zecka on and watched the gathering closely for any hint of danger.
Scotty arrived at the clearing and Julie was waiting for him. He raised his eyebrows and Julie said, “I made Anglo promise to take me wherever you are when you returned.” Scotty smiled and hugged and kissed her deeply. Maranda saw Scotty appear and watched as he greeted Julie. She remembered when she and Lem would meet each other the same way. She waited for the blond-haired archer to come closer.
Scotty held Julie’s hand and walked toward Bleath. “How’re the communities?”
“Fine. Just a few settling-in issues. Nothing serious.”
“Good. Hello, Bleath. Have you decided what justice you wish to impose on these two?”
“Before we discuss that, I want to share what we’ve discovered in your absence.” Bleath showed him Kreej’s revelation to Maranda and her reaction. “This is what her mind is like now.”
Scotty drew back from the misery and overriding hatred he felt, “That’s enough, Bleath.” Scotty looked over at Maranda and saw her staring at him. She did not display any fear, unlike that weasely son of hers, and she stared straight into his eyes.
Julie looked at her and recoiled at what she saw. Scotty looked at her and motioned her over to Bleath. Julie walked away wondering what had made this woman into what she saw.
Scotty walked up to Maranda and she said, “I have seen in the minds of the Zord that you are their Supreme Ruler.” Scotty nodded. “I know they can look in my mind and see whatever is there. I wish to ask one favor before I die.” Scotty started to get angry but she said, “I know I don’t deserve it. However, I have seen that one of your beliefs is that you will protect those that can’t protect themselves.”
Scotty stared at Maranda then said, “That only applies to those that are innocent of wrong.”
“I know that. I know there is no defense for my actions.”
“What is it you want?”
“I have to kill my father.”
Scotty leaned back and Maranda continued, “My father told this piece of crud son of mine that he was going to kill my youngest sister if she didn’t toughen up. Now that I have been removed from the succession, he will move quickly to eliminate her.”
Scotty stared at Maranda, not certain of what she was saying.
“My youngest sister has a loving heart. She is like I once was before my Father bent me to his will. She doesn’t stand a chance against him. It will be an arranged accident.”
Maranda stood and walked up to the Giant Zord and knelt in front of him, “Look in my mind Great Flyer. I will submit myself to your justice. I swear on the soul of my dead Love; I will return to face you for my crimes. I humbly beg for the chance to save one that is innocent and good. I know I don’t deserve anything from you for all the horrors I’ve committed. I pray you’ll give me a chance to save Ashley. Please.”
“What about your son?”
“He is just as responsible as I am. He has nothing good in him. I will not ask for his life. He deserves to lose it ten times over for his lust for power. He, like I, deserve our punishments.”
Bleath looked at Scotty. “Bleath, it is your decision. I will support whatever you decide.”
Bleath gave a screech and a huge warrior ran forward, grabbed Jimmy in his claws, and lifted into the sky. Hundreds of Zord lifted and followed the rising warrior. Jimmy could be heard screaming until the flock disappeared. “He will be flown over the identical path he used to chase one of our females. He will be dropped from very high up on the spot where he killed her.”
Bleath looked down at Maranda and said, “You are troubling. I know you are responsible for the lodges. I also know that it was your father that twisted your spirit and made you what you are. He used the death of your mate to cause your change. I see your sister in your mind and I agree; she is like you once were. I cannot allow an innocent child to die; even if it means you live.”
“Great Flyer, I may lose my life trying to save her but if I live, I will come back to take my flight with your warriors.”
Bleath looked at Scotty and said, “There are some things that should be allowed. She means what she is saying. We will delay her judgment. The one we want for our justice is the father. She will need your help to save her sister.”
Scotty looked at Maranda, “And she will have it.”
Maranda ran forward and threw herself at Scotty’s feet, “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”
Julie looked down at the weeping woman, then looked Scotty in the eye. Scotty saw what she was saying without her having to speak. “Maranda, come with me.”
Maranda stood, composed herself, and followed Scotty out of the clearing. Scotty hit his com, “Anglo, send us back to Varner’s throne room.”
Julie watched them disappear and felt the despair of the black haired beauty named Maranda.
Maranda and Scotty appeared in the throne room, and Wesley and Carrie jumped up and started toward her. Scotty said, “You will go back and sit down now!!” Jingo and Michael stepped in front of the two and stopped them from moving forward. Maranda stood in the center of the room with her head down. Wesley snarled, “Where’s that worthless son?”
Maranda looked at him and said, “He’s dead.”
Carrie and Wesley were stunned into silence.
“The giant Zord carried him out over the forest and retraced the route he had followed to chase and kill a Zord Female. The warrior carrying him dropped him from high altitude over the spot where he killed her. He had plenty of time to think about his evil deeds before he landed. It will be my time shortly to make that flight with the Zord.”
Carrie stared at Maranda with hate in her eyes, “Why are you still alive?”
Maranda looked at Carrie and said, “My Father is planning to kill Ashley.”
Carrie turned pale and even Wesley fell back in his chair.
“My evil Father told that worthless son of mine that if Ashley didn’t toughen up he was going to have to arrange an accident. Now that I’ve gone missing, Ashley will be next in the line of succession. My Father will prefer my youngest brother, who we all know is rotted to the core.”
Scotty looked at Wesley, “She has sworn to return to the Zord after she kills her father. They looked in her mind and know she means it. They believe, as do I, that an innocent person should be saved when possible.”
Maranda looked up at Wesley and Carrie, “My father had Lem killed to use me to set you up. He also put the idea of killing June in my head. I look back at who I was and now see what I’ve become, and I yearn for the long fall to end my suffering. But first, I must try to save Ashley.”
“You’ll never get close to him.”
“I must try, Wesley.”
Scotty said, “She will get close if you help her.”
Wesley stared at Scotty, “How?”
“Contact him now and tell him that you sent some scouts out ahead of the fleet and they were able to find Maranda and save her. They have just jumped in and Maranda has insisted on going home to his protection. You are leaving with your fleet, but will send her home in a shuttle once you reach the jump limit. Those ships being left behind will verify the shuttle being launched.”
“How will that get me close?”
“It’s not my intention to get you close.”
Maranda’s eyes narrowed and her whole body stiffened.
Carrie asked, “If you don’t have any intention of getting her close, why send her?”
“To save Ashley.”
Maranda took a deep breath and sat down on the floor.
“Jess will take Maranda to the planet and she will ask Ashley and her husband…she does have a husband…” Maranda nodded, “…to go to the shuttle and pick up your bags and bring the charts of King Varner’s fleet. Once she’s on board, the shuttle will take off with Ashley and her family.”
Maranda said, “Won’t that cause that shuttle to be attacked?”
“No, you’re going to tell him that you’ve programmed the shuttle to fly into the sun. Tell him you’re disgusted by her weakness and she needed to be eliminated.”
“Jess, I have a change of plans.”
“I’ve been listening.”
“Anglo, pull them out as late as possible.”
“Her screen is as good as a Gamma, Your Majesty. She should be able to fly right up to the corona.”
“He could still try to stop the shuttle.”
“He won’t.”
“How can you know for sure?”
“He hates everything about your sister. Evil knows its enemies. He’ll leap at the chance to have the option of blaming you for her death.”
“That should allow me to have my chance.”
“Maranda, do you put your revenge ahead of the lives of the people in his kingdom?”
Maranda just stared at Scotty saying nothing.
“You will probably have a chance before he launches his attack. He will order you out so you will not be able to witness his plan. He must go through with it. If we don’t get those Ultraships, billions will die. Are you still the creature he created? Will you take your revenge and ignore the citizens under your care?”
“Once we free your sister and he launches his attack, we will teleport him to the Zord. Once he’s gone, you will be the ruler of his kingdom.”
“I can’t do that. I have a flight with the Zord.”
“You can rule long enough to abdicate and put Ashley on the throne, and then make sure the leaders of the Military are loyal to her. Then you can take your flight.”
Wesley stood, “You trust her to just give herself up to die?”
Maranda looked at Wesley, “I killed June. I must pay for my sins. You may not believe this, but I know you are a good man. I’ve tried to hate you because of your weakness but that was the poison my father put in me. I destroyed your happiness and I deserve to die. I will die for my crimes. That is the only way I can prove to you that I am truly sorry for what I did. You never deserved what happened. You and Carrie should have been left to your lives.”
Carrie watched her and lowered her head, “She means it.”
“BC, are you on the channel?”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“You’ll need to bring Kreej, have him scan Wesley’s fleet, and give him the ones that are Talben’s lackeys. Once that’s done, we’ll send Kreej back home and await the arrival of the Ultras.”
“Who’s, going to watch King Varner’s Fleet to make sure he doesn’t attack Bristone?”
Scotty looked at Carrie and Wesley and said, “No one.” Scotty continued staring at Wesley, “You know what you have to do. Now all of you should get some rest. Tomorrow is a big day. You need not worry about Maranda. She will pay for her crimes. Anglo will teleport Jess into your landing bay tonight.”
The next morning the fleet assembled above the planet, and Ntwer watched as the troops were moved to the fifteen ships. “That’s a lot of soldiers.” Finally, they were all on board and the Fleet moved out toward the jump limit. Wesley waited until they were close, then he hit his console and contacted Talben, “Your Majesty, I have managed to save your daughter.”
“You’ve what?!?” Talben said in shock.
“I sent some of my elite scouts and they were able to make an escape with her. They were unable to find Jimmy. I am still going to try and rescue him. Is your fleet ready to join me?”
“We will arrive a few hours after you. Go ahead and start in-system; we’ll catch up.”
“Thank you. Maranda refuses to return to Criston. She was abducted from my capital and says she will feel safer under your protection. I am going to send her to you, if that meets with your approval. She’ll arrive in a shuttle shortly.”
“That’s fine. I’ll make sure she’s safe.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Ntwer watched a large black shuttle leave the King’s ship and jump away from the fleet. King Varner appeared on his display, “Commodore Ntwer. I’m depending on you to protect our people. Are you sure you have enough ships?”
“We have plenty, Your Majesty. Good luck and come home safe.”
“Thank you, Commodore.”
BC asked Kreej, “Were you able to determine which ships are Talben’s?”
“All of those with the Commodore are loyal to Talben. The Bendriz is also one of Talben’s. It’s leaving with King Varner”
“Have you notified Varner?”
“Yes, he also knows the names of ninety sailors on his other ships that are Talben’s.”
“Ok, your task is done. Anglo?”
“Yes?”
“Send Kreej back home.”
“Good-bye, BC.” The Zord disappeared from BC’s cargo bay.
Scotty looked around the throne room and made a decision, “Anglo?”
“Yes, Your Majesty?”
“I want to jump over to Talben’s planet and go to his throne room. Can you scan a place to send me?”
“Standby.”
Jingo and Grang stood up. Jingo said, “What are you doing?”
“I have to make sure the King attacks. I’m not certain Maranda will cooperate.”
Grang said, “I’m going with you.”
“No, you’re not. Your duty is here. Once the Ultras arrive, this room is going to be attacked. You three will hold this room against any attempts to enter.”
Grang didn’t like what he was hearing.
“Anglo, how many are in Talben’s throne room?”
“Just two.”
“I suspected the King would not trust many in his presence. I can handle two. All of you know it. So settle down and do your jobs.”
Jingo sat down on the King’s throne, “Ok, if you go and get yourself killed, who succeeds you?”
“As of this moment, Michael and Carrie.”
Both of them said, “What?!?”
“I trust your hearts. Anglo, let’s go before Maranda arrives.” Scotty stepped into a silver screen and disappeared.
Michael looked at Jingo, “I’m not qualified to take his place. You should be the one.”
Jingo smiled and looked around the throne he was sitting on, “Ya know, I could get used to this chair… but Scotty is right: I’m too much the warrior to be our leader. You are the perfect choice. Right, Grang?”
Grang gave a low growl, “No one can take his place. One can follow him; but he cannot be replaced.”
Jingo tilted his head and said, “Wow, you’re right!”
Michael and Carrie just stared at each other.
“Anglo, you need to get back to Criston and make sure BC eliminates Talben’s ships.”
“Scotty, I could handle all those ships alone. BC could do it with every scanner turned off. You’ve never seen the power of a Gamma Ship. Talben can send a thousand Ultras and BC could kill them all.”
“It’s a shame we have to destroy them. They are valuable ships in a universe without teleportation.”
“BC?”
“Yeah, Anglo?”
“Scotty wants to keep some of those Ultras. Do you think you can make that happen?”
“Sure, as long as the crews aren’t all suicidal.”
Scotty thought a moment and said, “If you can make that happen, do it. However, do not endanger the population.”
“I won’t.”
“BC, I’m serious.”
“Trust me; I’m a Gamma.”
“I’m the showoff, Scotty. He’s quite capable.”
Scotty tilted his head and thought, “I hope you’re right.”