“And if others refuse, will you also send them on a tour of the Federation?”
“No. If you are so selfish that you can’t share the gifts you have; if you are so small of spirit that you can’t bring yourself to help the less fortunate . . . you are free to leave and resume your meaningless lives.” She turned to Rap’tor. “That goes for both of you. You aren’t worthy to represent this world. I rescind your ambassadorships.” Turning again to face the crowd, she finished with, “For those who believe as I do, I invite you to stay and we can continue this discussion. Your input is invaluable to me as I certainly don’t have all the answers. For the rest, you are free to leave.”
She turned her back and exhaled loudly as the adrenalin finally left her body. Benny put his arm around her. “Nicely done.”
“You think so? I don’t. I probably just made about a hundred enemies for life.”
“I disagree. Look,” and they both turned to face the gathering. No one had yet left . . . not even Rap’tor and Kru-Ella.
Chapter 11 – Queen for a Day
The End of the Following Year
It was one of those times that when you look back on it, you wonder how it went by so quickly. For Egg, so many great projects that she had started were all coming to fruition. It amazed her that each one was more successful than the last.
It began with the technological breakthrough that Serenity and her team of Skotti, Jax’x, and K’ssss had achieved . . . the anti-grav device to float another city.
Their presentation was to an audience of concerned individuals. Kon’dor, Tron the Chief Archivist, Kommander Khan from Splendora, BreeZee who was never far from her Sky’lord, along with Egg and Benny – both at Meggy’s request. Inexplicably, Egg had also invited Rap’tor. His transformation from an adversary to a champion of Egg’s plan between royals and citizens was nothing short of a miracle. Skotti had also asked that Grex and Aero join them since they had been involved with the research.
Jax’x began the presentation. “Let me start by showing you a little demonstration.” She bent down and picked up an apparently heavy metal plate and dropped it none-too-gently on the table. “Watch,” and she nodded at Skotti who activated a controller sitting on the table in front of him. A moment later the plate levitated about a foot in the air then returned with a clang to its place of rest. Everyone clapped.
Everyone but Egg. “Cheater.” All eyes turned to Lady Eloise. “She’s using her Amber Heart power to do that.”
“I told you she wouldn’t fall for it,” complained Jax’x.
Sparky shrugged. “It was worth a shot.”
“Sorry, I don’t understand what’s going on.”
“Kon’dor, Jax’x can control . . . reality . . . by using the power in that amber heart necklace she wears. It’s a long story; suffice it to say that the power is very limited.”
“Be that as it may, why were you trying to deceive us?”
“To distract you.”
“I don’t understand?”
“If everyone would look out the windows . . .” and they all rose and did just that.
To their surprise, the structure they were in was now about one hundred feet above the ground . . . just sort of hanging there.
“Sorry about that everyone,” said Skotti. “The initial lift off the ground can be a bit rocky and we didn’t want you to take notice.”
“You did it. You actually created an anti-gravitational device,” exclaimed Tron. “Is there a limit to how much you can lift? Or how long it can stay aloft? Or how high it can go?”
“No, forever, and not much more than the two miles that Q’umulus floats above Aerianna. Remember that gravity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the gravitational source. In this case, whatever planet you’re on.”
“Can you take us through the physics?” asked Kon’dor.
“Yes.”
“No.” And that was Egg. “You boys and girls can take all the time you want to get into the minutia of this incredible discovery.”
“Rediscovery,” corrected K’ssss.
“That’s just a technicality. You guys are amazing and we all congratulate you,” and they applauded. “Let’s talk about some more practical aspects of all this. First, the technology belongs to the people of Aerianna. Unless my Queen overrules me, I will hereby lease it to the Sky’lords in return for a treaty of perpetual friendship. That would include the sharing of scientific discoveries and cultural exchanges. Anyone care to argue?”
“You are being far too generous,” said Khan.
“Not at all. What value do you place on friendship? I think it’s . . . it’s priceless.”
“Well said.”
“Good. Next, since the Sky’lords now have a source of income from the treaty with your southern neighbors and since you will need a great amount of labor to build this city, I suggest hiring us.”
“Meaning?” asked Kon’dor.
“Meaning our dragons. They are incredibly strong and can transport whatever materials it takes from the ground to the sky castle. We have many capable young men and women just itching for a new career and a little excitement. What say you, Rap’tor?”
“It would be a boon to us. I would offer my services to coordinate the venture. However, you should also consider humans and serpents. The former can be expert craftsman and the later are well known for their scientific and engineering skills.”
“On behalf of the Sky’lord nation, I accept. You and I can meet later to discuss the details,” said Khan.
“Thank you, sir.”
“So, there’s only one more point to cover,” declared Egg. “What will you call your new city?”
“It has already been decided,” answered Kon’dor. “We will call it the Citadel of L’elle.”
*****
The ‘noble’ class had begun its implementation of Egg’s plan. Unfortunately, it didn’t go well at first. About half of the young men and women participated with enthusiasm. The other half felt pressured to do what was right. Their reluctance all but poisoned their relationship with the very people they were meant to help.
And the outraged citizens felt insulted.
At an emergency meeting of the Citizen’s Council they demanded to know why Egg was forcing the Royals on them – those arrogant no-nothings interfering with their daily lives and their livelihoods.
Naturally, Lady Eloise was ready for their anger.
Actually, no.
She was beginning to realize that her good intentions required diplomacy on both ends – those forced/encourage to give and those doing the receiving. She wished Meggy was here to witness this – not to help but to show her that she, Egg, was obviously no diplomat.
Benny was with her and he was growing increasingly angry at the reaction his wife was receiving. He went to stand and demand quiet, but Egg held him back. “Let them vent.”
“Why?”
“It will tire them out.”
So, for the next hour, everyone tried to talk at once – raising their voices to be heard over the person next to them. The Royal couple just sat there and pretended to listen.
Finally, Egg told her husband, “Now you can get their attention but do it nicely.”
“I am always nice.”
“Don’t make me start laughing. These people will think I’m making fun of them and you may need to drag me to safety.”
“I shall be nice . . . however, I may need to yell.”
“Don’t be silly. Sing that song I taught you.”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“If I used the earth term ‘whacko’, would that be appropriate in describing you?”
“Absolutely. Now sing.”
“I dislike you intensely.”
“No, you don’t. You love me intensely.”
He had to smile. Then he stood, cleared his voice, and began to belt out “Take me out to the ball game, take me out with the crowd; Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jacks, I
don't care if I never get back. Let me root, root, root for the home team,
If they don't win, it's a shame. For it's one, two, three strikes, you're out, at the old ball game.”
Egg was right – they all went deathly quiet and listen to the baritone voice of the Prince. He was quite good. When he finished, Egg stood and started to clap. A moment later, all those with hands began to join in.
“Thank you. Thank you. That is very kind,” and the blue man bowed his head then sat down. “All yours, Gracie.”
“Now that you all had the chance to express yourselves, it’s my turn. If I ask someone a question, please let that individual answer. Everyone will have an opportunity to say their piece. I want to apologize. It was my notion to get the Nobility involved for two obvious reasons. First, they need to contribute to this world. Sitting around eating fine food and dressing like pretty dolls isn’t going to cut it anymore. Does anyone want to argue with that?”
No one did. In fact, they all grinned and nodded their heads.
“For half of them, they are doing something they find rewarding. For the other half, they still need to be convinced. So be patient. Remember, they’re only Royals. What do they know about working folks like you?”
And the grins turned to laughter.
“The second reason is that each person here, and each person that you represent, will now have a fulltime mentor to turn to if there is a problem whose solution requires additional resources. Remember, they aren’t here to tell you what to do. Far from it. They are here for you to tell them what YOU do. As I said, some of them will prove to be very adept from the get-go. Others will need your help to learn their new responsibilities. Once we iron out all the kinks, these new teams will prove beneficial to everyone.”
“But that woman you sent . . . I’m not allow to tar and feather her, am I?” asked a man.
“What woman are you referring to?”
“Kru-Ella.”
Egg laughed. “I really, really want to give you permission but I won’t. I will, however, replace her with someone that you can work with. And that goes for all of you. I’ll replace anyone that isn’t working out well. But please . . . for me, give them a chance.”
“For you, Lady Eloise, I’d let her marry my son.”
*****
Sometime Later
She had won one and lost one.
Kru-Ella had appealed to her parents to intervene on this madness that Egg had inflicted on her and all her friends . . . and so they did. They went behind the Queen’s back and directly to Rose, with whom they were close. The outcome was to be expected. The parents’ Royal rank had been reduced two levels and Kru-Ella had been sent to Zynn-Zaz’zia and enrolled in a six-year studies program under the supervision of Aeri’elle.
Once word got out, there were no other problems with the Nobility.
Unexpectedly, she had won over Rap’tor. Considering that Dragons in general hated taking direction from humans, his change of heart was even more satisfying.
He had asked for an audience and she had granted it. “Shall I stay?” asked Benny.
“No, I’ll be fine. No goosebumps.”
“Still, I will be in earshot should you need me.”
She kissed him. “You’re such a nice guy. How did I get so lucky in catching you?”
“You most certainly did no such thing. I caught you.”
“Sorry to burst your bubble – but I let you.”
“Will you leave me with no shred of dignity?” he teased.
“Had you been a lousy kisser, I would have dumped you in a heartbeat. How’s that?”
“I am, as always, your humble servant, madam.”
There was a tap on the door. “Go let him in. I’m dying of curiosity to hear what he has to say.”
Moments later, Benny had left and Egg was left standing there with the large dragon bowing his head. “Lady, thank you for seeing me.”
“It’s my pleasure. Care to sit?”
“Thank you, no. I will not take up much of your valuable time.”
Since he didn’t continue, she asked, “What can I do for you? Not looking to drop out of the program, are you? The people you represent think you’re doing a wonderful job.”
“That is very gratifying to hear. On the contrary. I came to apologize. Your plan has worked out brilliantly and I am glad to be a part of it. Thank you.”
“What changed your mind?”
“Two things. First, I have never felt so fulfilled as when I help my fellow dragons. I confess that I was shocked to experience such feelings.”
“That’s wonderful to hear. And the second thing?”
“I reread the history of the Hameggattic Sisterhood.”
“Okay. And?”
He said nothing. He bowed his head, turned, and left the room.
Egg stared at the door as it closed behind him. She wasn’t sure if she should smile or cry.
She did both.
*****
Egg and Benny boarded the Royal Yacht. At Meggy’s request, they were going to represent her at the twentieth anniversary celebration of the Federation on Peekaboo Prime.
“Why are we taking this ship?” asked Egg. It was small and slow, though very well appointed.
“We are in no rush to reach our destination. I thought a two week’s leisurely cruise would do us both good.” He gave her one of ‘those’ smiles.
“I am tired. It’s been such a busy time. I haven’t even had the chance to convene the Sisterhood meeting to present my plans. I should do that first thing when we get back. Then, I want to introduce some sporting events. On Earth, people take such pride in their teams. I think it will do wonders for the morale of everyone. Then I need to get with Aeri’elle on some programs I want to initiate for education. Oh, then I want to introduce a national holiday . . .”
He grabbed his wife and cleverly maneuvered his lips over hers to force an end to her stream of consciousness ramblings.
“What was that for?”
“Insatiable desire to taste your lips. By happy coincidence, it forced you to slow down. You have been going nonstop for nearly three years with all your initiatives, councils, and clever machinations. You will burn yourself out at the tender age of twenty-three.”
She was about to argue until her brain told her he was not wrong. “Sorry. You’re right . . . a couple week’s voyage with only you to think about will do me a world of good.”
“That is why we are taking only a minimum crew . . . to insure our privacy.”
*****
They were about a day and a half out from Peekaboo Prime, still lounging in their cabin when the captain knocked.
“Come,” called the Prince.
“Sorry to disturb you, Sir, but I received a message from the Queen.”
“Yes?”
“She instructed me to unpack a crate that had been stowed aboard.”
“Maybe it’s a gift,” suggested Egg.
Benny turned to the Captain and smiled. “Please do not keep us in suspense.”
“Sorry, Sir.” He stepped to one side of the door and in flew Ziz.
The mechanical dragonetta flew around the room then settled on the headboard of the bed.
“Hey Ziz, long time no see. How are you?” asked Egg playfully.
Surprisingly, the silly thing answered in Serenity’s voice. “Shiny and well oiled . . . and happy as a lark,” was the sarcastic reply.
“Is there anything else, Sir?” asked the Captain.
“No, thank you. We will be fine.”
“Sir,” and he left.
To his wife, the Prince asked, “I thought that thing only responded to Jax’x and her Amber Heart?”
“Sounds like our dear Sparky stuck an AI in it. Is that right Ziz?”
The bird actually rolled its eyes. “Duh.”
The two humans laughed. “Wonder why my sister sent us such an amusing gift?”
“Ask her,” and Egg pointed at Ziz.
“Clever,
you are.” To the bird, he asked, “Why are you here?”
“Meggy has a message for Egg.”
“And why would she use you to deliver it?”
“I’m not programmed to tell her for another thirty six hours.”
It had been a big debate amongst the sisters on how to deliver the Myst Tree’s riddle at just the right time. Using Ziz was Jax’x’s idea.
“How mysterious? Can you give me a hint?”
“I could but we both know that’s not going to happen.”
“Wow, you really are a winged version of Serenity.”
“It’s what makes me so charming.”
*****
A few hours later an ominous and incredibly loud siren splintered the otherwise serene ambiance of the ship. Egg and Benny were in the midst of eating lunch. The Prince bolted to his feet, knocking over a water glass into the process.
“What is that?”
“Unidentified ship approaching.”
“And?”
“It is armed and refuses to answer our hails. Come with me,” and he grabbed her by the arm and ran to the bridge. “Status, Captain.”
“I have identified the vessel. It belongs to Xara.”
“Xara? Benny, tell them to stand down. She’s not going to do anything bad.”
“Captain, stand down please.”
“Sir,” and the alarm went silent.
“Let me talk to her,” said Egg.
The Captain looked at Benny who nodded.
“Channel open, Lady.”
“Xara, it’s Egg.”
“Put me on screen,” came the familiar voice.
A moment later, the former nemesis appeared . . .
Her first words were confusing . . . but they still gave Egg goosebumps. “Sorry, girlfriend.”
“Sorry for what?”
“There’s a fleet headed your way. I tried to outrun them so I could warn you in time to get away. But they’re only about thirty minutes behind me.”
“Who are they?”
“A break-away group of planets in the Far Outer Reaches.”
“I don’t understand.”
“They’re not very happy with the Federation. They’ve gone rogue and are looking for a symbolic victory to start their rebellion.”
Lady Eloise [Book 6 of Ever After, an Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood novel] Page 11
