by DP Scott
Chapter Seven
At her desk, Saturna overlooked the day’s agenda. It was three days since her father’s spirit had been released to the outer world. There had been one day of celebration and two days of mourning. This morning marked the commencement of the interplanetary competitions. The yearly competitions were one of the traditions which Saturna always enjoyed. She yearned to be part of the competition, but as a female and now as Queen, she knew better than to suggest it. Even though she had been trained to fight, the risk of injury was great and what’s more she knew Gondee would never ever allow it.
Hearing the peeping sounds coming from her front pocket meant the Farilight was asleep. Saturna had been surprised when Gondee hadn’t protested her keeping the Farilight in her room. Protocol suggested the royals have no inhabitants or pets with them at night. This was for security and safety reasons. Saturna sensed that Gondee, knowing how lonely she was since the death of her father, had chosen to overlook the rule. Saturna was grateful because having to think about the needs of the Farilight helped to take her mind off the burdens of the kingdom. She patted her pocket lightly and then returned her thoughts to the day’s agenda.
Feeling Yuko’s presence, she called, "Come in Yuko," before she even heard the knock on the door.
The gold door opened and bowing, Yuko approached with a worried look.
“Your Majesty we have a problem in the barracks. An officer was arrested three days ago and left without food or water. He is now very ill.”
Saturna stood abruptly. "Is it usual to restrict our prisoners like this, Yuko?"
"No My Queen, but the guards did have orders. They came to me out of concern even though they feared for their own safety by questioning these orders."
"Orders from who?" asked Saturna, already sure she knew the answer.
"Detis, Your Majesty. She arrested this army officer for unknown reasons the day of your fathers' suttee, and left orders to give him no nourishment or fluid."
"Come Yuko, we will see this inhabitant now!" said Saturna with urgency.
