by DP Scott
The Solar System had been at peace for eighteen years and although there were over five hundred cells in the barracks, it held only fifty-two prisoners. Most were Kievils, who had been tried for criminal activities however all of them looked fit and well-cared for. Saturna was satisfied and after talking to the guards and some of the prisoners, she was convinced Detis was totally responsible for this particular incident.
By the time Saturna returned to the castle Anton had been washed and was sitting up on pillows. He was attempting to take sips of the delicious chucheen soup Maize had brought him, but was finding it painful with his very dry and parched tongue and lips. Saturna knocked briskly and then opened the door just a crack.
"May I enter?” she inquired.
"Yes My Queen," replied Maize, bowing her head as Saturna came into the room.
Anton nervously tried to put down the soup and had one leg out of the bed when Saturna stopped him. "There’s no need to rise on my account, Officer Anton. Please save your strength, especially since I fear it was the royal family who took it from you."
Walking towards the bed she tucked the blankets around him and then sat down on a chair, which had magically appeared behind her. The royal servants were well trained to anticipate all needs.
"Are you able to talk or does it pain you?" Saturna asked.
"My mouth is very dry, Your Majesty."
"Fine, then say no more until you are able. My sources have told me you refuse to let them know the reason Detis had you confined. I’m not so lenient and will get to the bottom of this. Do you understand?"
Anton looked up and nodded. When their eyes met both of them found it difficult to look away. Saturna could actually feel Anton’s thoughts.
"I sense you’re worried about the competition today. You’re fighting in the last rounds and wish to fight, although the doctor has forbidden it."
"Yes," whispered Anton. "I’ve prepared a lifetime for this day."
"You can’t fight Anton, you’re much too weak. But have no fear--I will take care of it for you."
"No! You cannot fight for me!" he cried out.
"But how do you know this? I just thought of it now," questioned Saturna, who was notably shaken.
"I’ve been told I have telepathy. In the past it has only been apparent around Turnti inhabitants. Yet, I strongly feel your thoughts and fears," he replied, shyly looking up at her.
Saturna gazed into his smoky eyes. "My mother was Turnti,” she answered quickly adding, “But we’ll talk about this later. You should rest and I must go. Hush now, no more words.”
Standing up Saturna dashed from the room without looking back. She felt her heart pounding. Never had another Zardite penetrated her thoughts like this. Saturna was so excited she could hardly contain herself. She would fight for Anton. The plan would be easy. She would watch the beginning of the competition and then excuse herself just before the final rounds. The hardest part would be blocking her auri from Gondee.
Looking down Saturna noticed the Farilight peeking over the edge of her pocket. Saturna had completely forgotten about the little creature.
“Well little Farilight, what do you have to say about the state of things? I really wonder if you understand our language. I must give you a name and have some clothes made for you,” Saturna paused and then continued, “I hope that’s alright with you? The weather will soon be getting colder and I think it’s only proper to offer you a grand dress or two for royal functions.”
Although there was still no indication the pixy understood anything, she did turn her face towards the sound of Saturna’s voice, and Saturna thought she saw a wee smile. “Peep, I think I’ll call you Peep, because it’s the first sound I heard you make.”
With only one hour to prepare, Saturna hurried toward her chambers and summoned Maize.
"Don’t question me on this Maize and tell no one. I need an officer’s uniform for myself, boots and a hat. Fetch them and please hurry!"
"Yes, My Queen."
Saturna ran to her closet and began to search for a gown to wear over the uniform pants and shirt. She would have to conceal the jacket and hat in a bag. The uniform was red, so she decided on her ruby gown of taffeta; it was long and hopefully would hide the laced military boots as well.
Placing Peep in the gold box Saturna quickly explained the situation. “You must stay in your box and in my chambers, Peep. I can’t risk you getting injured. I’ll come back for you when my rounds are over…oh, I hope you understand.”
Worried about leaving Peep alone, Saturna had just closed the lid when Maize returned.
With a huge sigh, Maize arranged the uniform and hat on the bed. “Your Majesty, it is not my position to tell you what to do. I only fear for your safety," she said, hinting through her auri that Saturna should not go through with her plan to fight.
"I’ll be fine with your help. Now how does an officer wear this correctly?” asked Saturna with a giggle trying to button the shirt. “Try the wool cape, it will hide my arms."
"It may be too warm, My Queen," replied Maize.
"Maize stop worrying," said Saturna gently, “Now this is perfect.” She glanced at her reflection. "Meet me in the back room behind the stable with my hat and coat and please have Fire saddled and ready for the last round. We haven't much time." Touching Maize’s hand, Saturna smiled. "You are worrying for no reason. I will be fine, you'll see. Please send one of your daughters to straighten my gown and to attend to me at the stands. It will seem odd if a servant is not there."
"Yes, Your Majesty," said Maize with great concern in her voice.
