Valis glanced at the fleet at Dega Six. “They’re desperate,” she said.
“They fear an end to their time,” El Kar said. “Those who fear the thoughts of rising stars will try crushing their ideals.”
“It won’t work,” Kivi said. “Even if we were destroyed today the peoples of the Alden will find their way.”
“But if we don’t act there won’t be a Confederation to protect by the time that happens,” Zae said.
Chapter 7 - Negotiation Breakdown
Shiken Ka slithered back and forth angrily while waiting for his audience with the High Council. His guards watched silently while a score of Minan troops kept them in the waiting room. The door from the hall leading to the interior of the station opened. Prime Minister Jabril Hopart of Kalaidia came through with a pair of guards in tow. Shiken met her gaze and nodded as she went to him.
“It’s been awhile Lord Ka,” she said before saluting.
He returned the sign, “A long time indeed.”
She put her hands on her hips. “So they’re waiting you out?”
Shiken laughed. “If that’s their tactic it’s not working very well. Anger only fuels my defiant patience.”
“I’d expect that from you,” she said.
“I may be speaking in metaphors to ease my mind,” Shiken said. “But from my experience with you I must be deadly serious.”
Jabril smiled. “I’m not one for nonsense. Otherwise the people would’ve voted me out long ago.”
“True indeed,” he said. The light on the door leading into the main hall lit up and buzzed. “Looks like it’s time to dispense with the nonsense and get something done.”
“Of course,” Jabril said.
The pair walked through the door and onto the platform leading to the center podium. Up and down the cylindrical chamber representatives of the twenty seven member worlds waited. Jabril took position next to Shiken Ka and turned on the console in front of them. Lord Kris floated forward in his gold and black exoskeleton. He tapped the gavel to call order to the hall.
“As all of you know, the current situation threatens to tear us apart,” the Mylor said. “The organization known as Heaven’s Light is primed to begin operation. The question of how we’re to treat them is far from settled. As of now the Mylor abstain from any decision. In our eyes, their organization amounts to nothing more than a private military force under the jurisdiction of the Degan government. Given that criteria, Heaven’s Light is legal and allowed under current law. Others would disagree. The Ick-Tckt, Malcovin, and Viken governments have been the most vocal opponents of this new organization. But in our last discussion on the situation it was revealed that this disagreement is far greater than simply three members. It was brought to our attention that half the member worlds are against the existence of Heaven’s Light. In addition, they have charged Brian Peterson of conspiracy, piracy, and for violations of the Law of Exclusivity. These charges are grave and carry the penalty of death if true. That’s why we’ve called for a rebuttal. The two races most vocal in the defense of Brian Peterson and Heaven’s Light are the Shandi and Kalaidians, two races who until eight years ago were at constant war. I now give the floor to Shiken Ka of the Shandi and Jabril Hopart, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kalaidia.”
Shiken nodded to defer to Jabril. She inserted a data crystal into the computer before speaking.
“Ten years ago Kalaidia was on the verge of civil war,” she began. “I served under the grace of Queen Celestia as the leader of her royal guard. But even with that level of loyalty, I knew change must occur. The people were oppressed and denied their rights. Our economy was teetering on the edge of destruction and our military was cut by a third. But worst of all our population was in an exponential decline.” She closed her eyes for a moment before opening them once more. “Our hopes were gone and future as well. That was before he came to us. Brian Peterson appeared as the Herald and freed us from the past. He gave us the hope we’d lost. Now, almost a decade later, his dream for Kalaidia has come true.” She activated the data file and displayed the numbers and charts on the screens for all the representatives in the chamber. “As you can see, the health of the Kalaidian people has vastly improved. Our economy is booming, our military strength has returned thrice fold, and our population has seen growth unknown to any generation before. But most of all it’s the heart of the people of Kali that’s changed for the better. Instead of fearing the whip of the tyrannical noble we stand together. Our fate was destruction and we resisted. The people of Kali have a future. Even if it means mixing with the blood of others it will be ours. For it is not the blood in the veins or the dirt on the planet that make a people, but the people themselves. You accuse Brian Peterson of conspiracy, of piracy, and of violations of your precious exclusivity. I attest these charges as false based on not the character of the man, but his actions. That is my statement,” she said.
The murmurs in the hall began roiling when Shiken Ka slammed his fist on the podium.
“For a hundred years we warred,” Shiken said. “And it seemed there was no end to the bloodshed. Even I had lost all hope of a peace with the people of Kalaidia. My mind was made; if peace couldn’t be attained then power was the only alternative. That’s what I believed. Everything changed the day I met Brian Peterson in the deserts of Kalmar. He was alone, utterly exhausted and hopelessly outnumbered. He fought with the strength of a thousand that day. When I battled him, he was weak and tired with no aid from his armor. And though his blade was slow and cumbersome he matched me in every way. His loss that day was not due to my skill but to the honor in his heart. Victory was less important than his friend and fellow soldier, Captain Kivi of the Raulno. It was then my mind began changing. His values, his thoughts rippled across mine and all the Shandi serving under me. In less than a week our lives were changed forever. Although he appeared Kalaidian he was not. His heart is Terran. He showed us that we could work together instead of fighting. He found the similar where others found difference. The heart of a Shandi and Kalaidian are close. We all feel fear, hate, sadness, joy, and pride. And though our beliefs are different and bodies radically so, our hearts are the same. Brian brought us a peace no one ever thought possible. Even the Confederation failed to seal a pact between our peoples. And though there are disagreements between us, war will never again separate us. You cling to the belief that Terrans are dangerous. You claim what he seeks is evil. But I question your knowledge of the man. Brian is not simply a Terran, nor is he simply the commander on a Kalaidian starship. He’s much more than what you see. To know Brian you must see past the body and find his heart, because that is what gives him strength. His dream is neither war nor conquest. His dream is of a world where war is scarce and prosperity reigns. Heaven’s Light is not his will. It’s the will of the people of Alden. That is my statement,” Shiken said to end his speech.
Murmurs filled the grand hall as the representatives began arguing amongst themselves once more. Shiken Ka and Jabril stood their ground while the crowd fought each other verbally.
“I think reason is lost to them,” Jabril said.
“I agree,” Shiken said.
Lord Kris tried restoring order to the chamber as the pair at center stage stormed out. Few within the chamber took notice as the vitriol grew with each passing moment. Once outside the chamber the door closed behind them.
“Did we do any good by coming?” Jabril asked.
Shiken nodded. “Our feelings are not alone in this matter. It’s evident more than half of those in that room wish for his success. Just because one shouts louder doesn’t make them right. Many are stuck in silence because they fear retribution.”
“I hate to say this Lord Ka, but you’re right,” Jabril said. She saluted him once more. “I hope strength follows your every moment.”
He saluted back. “And may Kali watch over you and your people.”
Jabril smiled before leaving with her guards. Shiken Ka turned to the Minan soldiers surro
unding him and his two guards.
“Are we allowed to leave yet?” he asked.
The lead officer amongst the guards stepped forward. “You’re allowed to leave at any time.”
“Thank you,” Shiken said before heading through the massive maze of hallways.
“What are we going to do my lord?” one of his guards asked.
Shiken tapped the blade on his back. “We’ll do everything in our power to ensure light shines once more upon the peoples of Alden.”
* * *
Myden silently watched the High Council argue for hours. He paced back and forth on his small saucer shaped ship before sitting down to meditate.
Their thoughts are so dissonant at the moment. It would be a miracle if one could bring them together on anything right now.
Lord Jita floated forward from the shadows. “To think the sojourners brought back all the evidence needed to unify them. It’s a pity they can’t see their own foolishness.”
Myden sighed. “Long ago we swore to see the plan through old friend.”
“True General Myden,” Jita said. “But hasn’t it already been changed?”
Myden stood silent for a moment. “The Warrior wasn’t supposed to survive the sojourn. That’s what the plan originally contained. But the Maiden of Life awakened sooner than anticipated.”
“Does Brian know about this?” Jita asked.
Myden closed his eyes, “Most likely, if not if fact then by intuition. The Machine God has touched his mind and is working at his sanity. I fear the darkness he hates will embrace him wholly.”
“And what if it does?”
Myden opened his eyes and held forth his telepathic staff. “Then I will be the one to stop him.”
“You’ll be hated for eternity,” Jita warned.
“I don’t care!” Myden shouted. “Light must shine upon this galaxy once more lest the darkness take it all. Even if they curse my name for a thousand years I will see the plan through. It’s all I live for now.”
Jita turned to leave. “Your conviction is enough Myden. The Mylor stand with you.”
Chapter 8 - Departure Celebration
The crew of the Avoni gathered in the mess hall with Seles and Mira near the stage. Meldi and Myli sat next to Seles, while Celi and the medical staff sat next to Mira. The others filed in with a mix of joy and sadness as they knew life on the Avoni would be changed forever. When everyone was situated Celi stood and took center stage.
“We come today to pay our respects and gratitude for the service of lieutenant Seles and lieutenant Mira,” she said. “They’ve served faithfully onboard this ship for over a decade and proven their worth in battle. But most of all, they’ve shown us what we can aspire to.” She looked at Seles, “I can’t tell you how many times you led us to victory. Your skill as a pilot is matched only by your intensity. We look forward to the day when we hear you sing with all your heart. Hopefully, that day will be soon.” She looked at Mira, “I had my doubts when I first met you. You didn’t seem like a medical officer at the time, but over the years you’ve proven me wrong. Your skill in the healing arts is only surpassed by your ability in music. To hear you sing is to hear Kali herself. Thank you for the time you’ve spared our souls and given us hope.”
She stepped off the stage and sat down with the others. Seles and Mira looked at each other for a moment before Seles nodded and went first. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath before speaking.
“The Avoni has been my home for a long time,” she said. “I know life is a series of meetings and partings but I’m having a hard time leaving you. You’ve given me so much. You’ve given me so many memories. I won’t forget any of you. And even though I’ll live at a distance I’ll always keep in touch.” She looked at Meldi and Myli, “I know the two of you will keep the Avoni flying. You survived the sojourn where many were lost. The only regret in my life is I wasn’t there for you. It won’t happen again, that I promise.” She turned to the rest of the crew, “Thank you for giving me this chance. I won’t ever forget the kindness you’ve shown me.” Tears welled in her eyes as she tried composing herself. “Thank you.” Seles wiped away the tears as she stepped down and took her seat.
Mira grasped her hand before standing up. “That was beautiful.” She took her place on the stage while pacing the edges. “It’s odd knowing this will be my last time on this stage in front of you.” She noticed Zae leading against the wall in the back of the mess hall. “But I’m not leaving you without music. In the last few years we’ve come to an understanding on this ship. It’s Zae’s turn to take over. Her talent is as good as mine. I’m glad we pushed each other over the years.” Zae nodded with a smile. Mira looked to Celi, “I’ve learned so much from you. When I first studied medicine I didn’t know where it would take me. Now I see the path for what it is. It’s time I take care of a crew on another ship. It’s time I leave the Avoni to you and trust you’ll carry on. Thanks for being a great friend and the best teacher I could’ve ever learned under.” She looked to the rest of the crew, “I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. Your cheers kept me going. I’ll treasure my time on the Avoni for the rest of my life. Thank you.”
Mira bowed before stepping off the stage. The others in the hall stood and raised a glass to their departing shipmates. They cheered as they tapped their drinks. The formality fled the room as everyone milled about and talked about the future of the Avoni. Seles stood next to Mira and Celi.
“Your speech was just as beautiful,” Seles said.
Mira smiled. “I’m going to miss this place.”
“It’s time you go out on your own,” Celi said. “Your skill is equal to mine.”
“Thanks,” Mira said.
Celi turned to Seles. “How goes the command training?”
Seles shook her head. “It’s a lot to absorb. Thankfully the plan is for me to lead the mobile suits most of the time. But for the moment I’ll try to do my best with what I’ve learned.”
Zae came over to them and put a hand on Seles’s shoulder. “You’re uncertainty is due to a lack of experience. Don’t worry Seles; you have a natural talent in inspiring others.”
“I’m glad to hear you say that,” Seles said.
Celi sighed. “I guess we have to get back to our duties.”
Zae shook her head. “No rest for the command staff.” She looked at Seles and Mira once more. “Take care you two. Hopefully we won’t lose touch with each other.”
“We won’t,” Mira said.
“That won’t happen,” Seles said.
Celi and Zae saluted the pair before leaving.
“How did Jesela get out of this?” Seles asked.
Mira shrugged. “She technically left a while ago. That was her excuse.”
Seles sipped the wine. “Everything changes tomorrow.”
“Everything indeed,” Mira echoed.
* * *
The command center bustled with activity as Grigon, Valis, Kivi, Brian, and El Kar stood around the center table. They watched a real time image of the Confederation forces closing the areas of Dega Jul around the Kein estate.
“It seems they’re determined to catch my grandmother,” Valis said. “There’s no way she can hold out there.”
“Then we’ll have to go get her,” Kivi said.
“All of us?” El Kar asked.
Valis looked at Brian as he stared at the space images around their base. “What is it?”
“They’re coming,” he said.
“How do you know?” El Kar asked.
Brian turned and stared at the Shandi. “I can’t say for sure. But I know something is shifting the wave patterns.”
Valis looked at the space Brian was staring at. “Kivi, El Kar, prep your ships for launch,” she said as she turned back. “The Avoni and Vomada are more than enough to defend the base if need be.”
“Where should we go after retrieving her?” Kivi asked.
“The Kalmar system,” Valis said. “Shiken
Ka has promised us protection if we need it.”
“On his honor and word,” El Kar said. “The Confederation will have a tough time sending ships into his territory.”
Kivi tapped the swords on her belt. “Let’s go.”
She and the Shandi captain took their leave.
“Are you sure you can trust me?” Brian asked.
“Rarely have your instincts been wrong,” she said. “Are you alright?” she asked as she took his hand. Brian snapped out of his trance.
“I’m seeing things Valis,” he said. “Things that would drive others mad. I’m worried I won’t be able to handle things soon.”
“We’ll find a way,” she said. “You have a ship to captain and a cause to fight for. The choice of giving up long ago left you.”
Brian smiled. “Thanks.”
“I don’t mean to interrupt the moment,” Grigon said, “But our sensors are detecting a fleet of ships inside the perimeter.”
“Your assessment was correct,” Valis said.
“I hate being right,” he said.
* * *
The celebration in the mess hall of the Avoni continued as Seles and Mira stood together near the stage. Meldi and Myli joined them.
“Looks like you finally have command,” Seles said to her former subordinates.
“Not a position one longs for,” Meldi said.
“If only the pay were worth the effort,” Myli added.
“Promise me you’ll protect this ship,” Seles said.
“I promise,” Meldi said.
“As do I,” Myli said.
The two saluted. “We have to take our leave now,” Meldi said. “Take care you two.”
“We will,” Seles said.
“Take care,” Mira said.
“We will,” Myli said as they left.
As time moved more and more of the crew came over and congratulated them before wishing them well and leaving. Once the last group of the medical staff said goodbye the pair were left alone in the room.
Freedom Saga 1: Heaven's Light Page 5
