“Brian?” she asked.
“It’s been so long since I could do this with you,” he said as he looked into her eyes. “You’re the best.
She held him tighter. “I feel the same.”
“I came to this place with selfish desire. But now I see I can’t think that way anymore. The people of your world have pinned their hopes and dreams on me. I may have lied about being the Herald, but that doesn’t mean I can back out now.” He stepped back and took a knee. “I ask you Seles, can I do this?”
She kissed him passionately. “You always were one for the dramatic.” Seles made for the hatch. “Do what you want; I won’t stand in your way. Just don’t get yourself killed.”
“I’ll try my best to do that,” he said as the hatch closed, leaving Seles on the balcony. The Mjolnir fired up and flew high into the air.
* * *
Celestia paced around her throne room with guards and attendants surrounding her. She wore her battle uniform and carried rakna blade on her belt. Jabril came through the main door flanked by Seles and Mira with Myden following. Celestia stopped and stared at Mira as tears formed in her eyes.
“It’s been awhile,” Mira said smiling.
Celestia went to Mira and hugged her. “I thought you were dead all these years Mira. Where’ve you been?”
Seles couldn’t hide her surprise. “Mira, did you know mother?”
Mira smiled. “I slept for a long time.” She pulled away and turned to Seles. “You could say Celestia and I were like sisters.”
“So true,” Celestia said. She noticed what Mira carried and looked to Myden. “Where’s Brian?”
Myden noticed for the first time he had openly walked the palace for all to see. “He has some business to attend to my Queen. I was given the duty of escorting these two. What we brought was the last task of Gaelic Kein.”
Mira took Celestia’s hand. “We don’t have time to explain everything right now, but we have the vaccine for the plague,” she said. “Father used his last days to uncover the truth. Another version floats in every one of us and only needs a simple mental command to activate.”
“What?” Celestia asked before looking to Myden.
He nodded his head. “My Queen, the plague was the seal in a pact with my people by many of your nobles. If nothing is done the plague will destroy the rest of you within the next five years.” He held up a small vial filled with yellow liquid. “Inside of each of these is a vaccine to protect your people from further harm. Please distribute these as quickly as possible.”
Jabril went to Myden. “Who are you and what do you mean by your people?”
Celestia was about to step in, when Myden told her telepathically. “I knew this day would come my Queen, I’ll show them the truth.”
He drew back his hood and revealed his black eyes and light grey skin. “My name is Myden Karaka, former High General of the Black Star Knights of the Naerendi Empire.”
The look from everyone in the room, even the most hardened warrior, was one of fear. Now I know how he feels. They look at me with fear and apprehension. Myden thought to himself.
“My Queen, can we trust this creature?” Jabril asked. She placed a hand on her pulse rifle.
Celestia nodded. “I’ll vouch for him Jabril. He’s guided the royal family in secret since the days of my mother. Myden may come from their empire, but he’s unlike the others.” She went to him and took the vial. “Make as many copies of this vaccine as needed. We’ll begin distribution as soon as this conflict is finished.” She handed the vial to Jabril.
As Jabril left with the vial in her hand another attendant ran into the room. “My Queen, someone has penetrated our communications array. Someone’s going to make a live broadcast across all air waves.”
Celestia turned to the monitor. “Where is the hack originating?”
“The point of origin seems to be moving,” the attendant said. “Our satellites show it’s the Herald’s giant.”
* * *
Across every computer monitor, communication device, and every ship in the star system the image of Brian appeared. In each instance, the Kalaidians stopped moving, fighting, or speaking. They stared at the image of their Herald and waited to hear his words.
“To everyone receiving this message, on behalf of my home world, Terra Prime, I wish to tell you my story. My name’s Brian Peterson, Rakna Maigar of the Avoni. I serve Captain Valis Kein as her second officer. To those of the Galactic Confederation, I’m the lone Terran in space right now. I didn’t come here willingly and I would’ve returned home, but now it’s too late. I repeat, I am the lone Terran in space and my people haven’t begun traveling amongst the stars. About a year ago I was taken from my home by the Greys. I fought them off and was stranded onboard their ship. I was saved by Captain Valis and the Avoni. After many ordeals I was taken in by the graces of her and her crew and trained onboard for nearly a year. Now I’m here on Kalaidian Prime with a mission given to me by the late Gaelic Kein. As you know all of the Kalaidian men were wiped out a hundred and fifty years ago. But what slept for longer was the beliefs those men held. Gaelic believed in freedom and the ability to determine one’s destiny. Others of your world feared his words and plotted against him. But the lengths they went to were extreme and an act of genocide unseen since the incident of Geluke Don. In his last days, Gaelic discovered the truth behind the plague and created a vaccine. I’ve given the vaccine to those who can help you. But what I really want to talk to you about is this war. I ask that all of you put down your arms and carefully think about what you’re fighting for. Is fighting going to help you personally? Are you fighting for the causes of some noble? What is it each of you is fighting for? I can tell you, but it’s not going to be pleasant. What you fight for now is the power and control of a few, wealthy nobles. The poor die for the cause of the rich, all in the name of the Goddess. I’ve studied your culture and religion closely and don’t believe Kali would subject her followers to such meaningless deaths. From the country I hail from on Terra Prime, we believe in the concepts of freedom, liberty, and democracy. My ancestors fought, bled, and died for those beliefs. It’s the right of the many to not be ruled by the few. In the land I come from there is no master and slave. Upon reading the teachings of Gaelic Kein, I saw a kindred spirit. He was one who longed for change on Kalaidia. He saw the many suffering and sought a solution. I was given the order by his last writings to fulfill that destiny. But to you of Kalaidia, I can’t do this alone. I ask for your help. I cannot save everyone or tell them what to do. The only thing I can do is to help you save yourselves. I beseech to you, put down your arms and end this war. I was the one who triggered this and I’ll be the one to end it. But I can’t end it alone. Each one of you must stop and help. Goodbye, and by the blessings of the goddess, be safe.”
* * *
As the battlefields quieted and the Kalaidians stood still the Mjolnir flew to the edge of Vaelis, to the largest battle. Brian’s words echoed through many star systems while being repeated and recorded on all frequencies. The ships above ended their fighting and floated harmlessly past each other through space. The twenty six member races of the Confederation heard the words of a Terran for the first time. They were not words of hate and war, but a call for peace.
Valis turned to Zae. “Give out the order. The ships of the twelfth Independent fleet won’t fight any longer, in the name of the Herald.”
“Yes captain,” Zae said as she delivered the message to the fleet.
Kivi smiled. “He’ll make a fine captain one day, not too different from you.”
Valis nodded. “Of course, I always was one for spotting talent.”
Zae turned to them. “It looks like every fleet, including the rebels are listening to Brian’s request. The fighting’s ending everywhere, space, the colonies and outlying star systems, as well as the home world. A number of captains on the rebel side are dealing with mutinies.”
Valis laughed. ‘How come I’m not surpr
ised? After all, Brian did call for the masses to control the few.” She looked at her crew. “I hope none of you are getting any ideas.”
They replied in unison: “No captain.”
* * *
As the Mjolnir landed, Brian noticed some of the ground forces hadn’t got the message. Checking his armor and weapons he opened the front hatch. Pulse blasts filled the sky, rifle and artillery included. The ships flying in the air were clearing out after hearing his message and seeing his craft. He activated his shield and headed outside while soldiers nearby looked at him with a mix of fear and awe. He drew his sword and paced to center of the battlefield as pulse blasts bounced off his shield. With a command the holographic system kicked in and he began to glowing with a fierce, blue aura. The fighting subsided as both sides stared at him. With a spin of his sword he began the ritual to end his training as a Rakna Maigar. It was the twelfth Song of the Cou don e Kali, the Hymn to Kali. The image came up on most monitors and screens on Kalaidia, the image of the Maigar born again. The song and dance lasted five minutes, but it felt like an eternity to those who watched, captivated by its grace. At the end, Brian planted his sword in the ground and deactivated his shield. The aura and images disappeared. He gave a bow and salute to the ladies watching from their fox holes and barricades. He heard some of them cheering.
Brian turned to both sides with his arms outstretched. “I, Rakna Maigar Brian Peterson swear allegiance to the people of Kalaidia. It’s time we end this isn’t it? Those of you gathered here are fighting for the power nobles, are you not? Let me lead you onto the path of freedom and liberty.”
Hesitantly, a number of soldiers on both sides began putting down their arms and went to greet him. A number of commanders shouted for them to stop, but their troops wouldn’t listen any longer. Many of them looked confused at what was happening. A young blue haired lieutenant stepped forward first.
“Maigar, what’s democracy?” she asked.
“Democracy is a system of government by which the people rule themselves,” he answered while pointing at each one of the gathering soldiers. “Each of you receives a voice in all political matters, called a vote. In that way everyone is equal. You yourselves decide the laws of your world by vote and thus creating a government by the people, for the people.”
“How does freedom work?” a young ensign with purple hair asked.
Brian smiled. “Freedom is a right of all intelligent beings young lady. It’s the right to determine one’s own destiny. For generations you’ve been told what to do your whole life. Having freedom means you get a choice in the matter.”
This went on for a long time. Even some of the conservative commanders came out to ask questions. Brian stood as they gathered around him and explained everything he could, from what his home world looked like to the star spangled banner.
Chapter 45 – Save the Queen
The royal court was silent as Brian’s speech ended. Shortly after, they watched as he stood at the center of a battle and completed the Hymn to Kali. Myden put his hood up and stood next to the queen when a number of soldiers came in to announce the fighting was over.
“You look down,” Mira said as she went to Celestia.
“Yes, he’s definitely changed things. Mira, did he complete the Cou don e Kali?” Celestia asked.
“Of course,” Mira said. “I was the one who trained him.” She looked at the monitor and watched Brian amidst a crowd of Kalaidians while they asked him questions. “He may be Terran, but he has the grace and love of one of our people.”
“I’m worried about what he intends to do. This democracy he speaks of is heresy,” Celestia said.
Seles went to her mother. “I’ve stayed by his side for a long time. He wouldn’t do anything to hurt us.”
Celestia sighed. “It’s real easy for one who hasn’t had to lead a nation.” She stared at the monitor. “His people’s ways aren’t ours. I understand freedom and believe it can be allowed to a point, but democracy?”
Myden took out his black metal staff, etched with glowing purple hieroglyphs and began pumping mental energy into it. With a shout, he told everyone: “Get down!”
At that moment the palace began shaking as explosions came from above.
* * *
Brian stood at the center of the battlefield with scores of Kalaidians wanting to hear his words. He answered every question and felt tired after a while. He looked up at the sky and saw a small, circular craft flying towards the palace. They’re really here. I’d better get moving now. He turned to the crowd.
“I’m sorry ladies of, but I have to go.” Despite a few protests, he ran to the Mjolnir and got onboard. I hope Myden can hold out until I get there.
* * *
As the small Grey ship hovered over the palace firing blasts of energy, Myden stood with staff in hand. Using all his mental energy he created a glowing shield around everyone in the throne room. I can sense their fear. Myden smiled under his hood. We can’t let God have his way, now can we Brian? He thought to himself. The Kalaidians began looking around, seeing him stand at the center of the room, absorbing the debris as it fell. Not too long after, the roof caved open and they saw a Grey ship hovering above them. He closed his eyes and focused everything on the defensive barrier. Celestia, Mira, and Seles started towards him.
“Stay back!” he warned them telepathically. “I can only hold them off for a little longer. Brian will take over soon.”
Celestia looked up. “So, Brian was right.” The others in the room saw tears in her eyes. “Has Kali forsaken us?”
Seles hugged her mother while looking at the Grey ship. “Believe in him mother. Whenever someone he cares about is in danger he shows us why we should fear Terrans.”
“He’s also got a bad habit of getting hurt,” Mira said with a wink.
Seles laughed. “That’s so true.”
* * *
Brian flew the Mjolnir as fast as he could to the palace and drew the sword. As he neared he saw the Grey ship firing into the palace.
“Take them out of the city at the speed of the gods,” Myden said to him telepathically. With his remaining power Myden spun his staff and fired a shot of energy into the Grey ship to disrupt its systems for a moment. The Mjolnir barreled into the craft and carried it as fast as it could outside of the city. As they neared the edge of the metropolis, the Grey vessel started forming a strange barrier around itself. They’re copying the Mjolnir! Brian thought as the Grey ship became the heart to a giant of energy the same size as the Mjolnir. It even had the same weapons and shield. When he crashed them into a river the Grey clone began attacking him. They were faster than he was and forced him onto the defensive. Can I control it? He thought as he blocked a mighty slash. He closed his eyes for a second and sighed. I guess I have no choice. When he opened his eyes they began glowing blue. His movements increased in speed and the Grey clone was now on the defensive. The Grey ship started putting up a barrier like Myden’s but far more powerful. Laughing, Brian began his finishing move. The Mjolnir twirled the massive rakna blade just above its head.
With an evil smile he snarled at the Grey ship. “Now you die!”
The spinning blade gathered energy and shifted into a beam of light. He pointed the beam at their ship and blasted them into the ground. Seeing his opponent prone, he ran the Mjolnir over. Although it appeared to have no life the ship was still intact.
“I love the sound of grinding metal,” he said as the Mjolnir stomped the Grey ship. He heard their telepathic pleas, their vain attempts to stop him mentally. “Hold on a second, crushing them won’t be any fun for me.” The Mjolnir took a step back. “Why don’t I have a little fun?” He commanded the heat energy to leave the sword. With a precise stab the Mjolnir picked up the other ship using the blade. He smiled at the sound of them dying in agony as they pleaded for him to stop. He placed the battered ship into the river and flooded it. After a minute of that he dragged the ship behind him as he headed for a flat area to take
off. Still smiling evilly he flew the Mjolnir into the sky.
* * *
A crowd had gathered on the roof of the royal palace to watch the Mjolnir beat and torture the Grey ship. They looked on with a mix of awe and fear.
“What the hell’s he doing?” Celestia asked. “It’s like he’s gone mad.”
Mira and Seles looked concerned. Myden stood next to them and appeared tired. “He’s awakened. I hope he knows how to control the rage.”
“Awakened?” Celestia asked.
“We call it berserking,” Mira said. “He’s manifested it a few times in the past.” She watched the Mjolnir stab the defenseless Grey ship. “But he’s never gone berserk in the Mjolnir before.”
“If he can’t control it, he’ll go on a rampage of destruction,” Myden said as the Mjolnir flying into the sky, Grey ship in tow. “I don’t think he has control.”
Seles turned to Jabril. “I need your fastest Nova, now.”
“You’re planning on getting him back?” Mira asked.
“I can’t let him die like that,” Seles said as she left with Jabril.
* * *
While the Mjolnir flew closer to space Brian heard the few Greys left begging for him to stop.
“Sorry you ugly little creatures, I can’t let you off the hook so easily,” he said, laughing.
When he reached low orbit he saw fleets of Kalaidian ships hovering far above. With a twisted smile, Brian turned the Mjolnir around and dove into the atmosphere.
“I wonder what cooked Grey smells like,” he laughed out loud.
As the pleas for mercy faded the mobile suit dove towards the capital. With a twisted smile he flipped the ship off the sword. With a resounding spin he threw the dead vessel into the mountains near the city. As it exploded he landed the Mjolnir next to the shattered remains and looked down on it.
Heaven Saga 1: The Lost Hero Page 23
