Celestial Love

by Juli Blood

  ‘Hopefully, we will have a lifetime to explore this amazing, wonderful, and terrifying oneness together.’ Kalea replied, glad that she was starting to feel normal again. “I guess we should go find Gilbert.”

  “Or just let Franklin let him pass,” Bryan answered aloud also as he tipped his head to the left.

  Franklin stood guard giving them the privacy he felt they needed. He realized they were linked but he still didn’t let anyone disturb them.

  Standing, Kalea made her way over to Gilbert who stood talking to a man that looked familiar but with only a view of his back she couldn’t place him. Then he turned and Kalea raised her arms and stepped forward as she said, “Uncle Evan, what a wonderful surprise! Did you just get back or were you waiting for us?”

  Holding her an extra moment Evan then released her and said, “Oh, I ran into Gilbert here the other day and we’ve been visiting. He let me know you had arrived and I came right over.”

  “What a blessing. Oh, Uncle Evan, this is my husband Crown Prince Bryan Alexandros of Saxionias.” Leaning in she whispered, “We just call him Bryan.”

  “Good to know,” he whispered back with a smile before greeting Bryan. “It’s nice to meet you young man. Gilbert has told me a little about you. I hope we have time to visit before you set off again.”

  “That will depend on Gilbert, I believe,” Bryan answered. “However, I am pleased to meet another member of Kalea’s family. How are you related?”

  “King Douglas is my older brother. We had a sister but she went to her rest shortly after Kalea was born,” Evan answered, a little impressed that Bryan was trying to understand all the family connections.

  “I have a twin brother. I think he must be feeling the pressure now that I’ve abdicated the throne to him. He was planning on an exciting military career. Actually, he left Saxionias several months ago to do some exploring. Father had to notify him from afar and he hasn’t made it back yet, at least not before I left. I’m not sure he’ll be thrilled with the idea of being king.”

  “I know I wouldn’t have been,” Evan replied and then added. “I didn’t really do the military career, just the exploration. I recently resigned my professorship and am again out exploring the universe.”

  “Does Mother know?” Kalea asked a bit surprised.

  “Yes,” Evan answered. “But she refuses to accept my resignation and has simply placed me on an extended sabbatical. She thinks this way I will have to return to teaching sooner or later. I tried to tell her it wasn’t going to happen but she can be stubborn.”

  “She prefers to call it ‘determined’,” Gilbert inserted and succeeded in getting everyone’s attention. “If you would follow me, I believe I have something of interest to show you.”

  “Oh, Gilbert, I almost forgot, I brought someone for you.” Kalea said and then glanced around. “Franklin, where is he?”

  “He is waiting for your summons in the cargo bay. He didn’t know where to go so he waited with the ship we arrived on,” Franklin answered.

  “Well, have him report to whatever hanger we are headed to,” Kalea ordered and then turned her attention back to Gilbert. “We brought you a programmer that Bryan had among his staff. His name is Benjamin Kellman and he has already helped in the investigation, according to Queen Larraine.” Stepping closer she whispered, "He was interrogated and found to be trustworthy, so Father sent him to help.”

  Stopping, Gilbert looked to Franklin and said, “It's Hanger 12 at the end of Corridor 7.” Franklin nodded and then turned to Pierce who quickly headed in the opposite direction to retrieve Benjamin.

  They were nearly there, so Gilbert saved his questions for later. He planned to ask several, mostly to Bryan. Opening the hanger door Gilbert held up his hand in a staying gesture and then knelt to pick up what looked like a ball. He pressed a pattern into it and then slipped it into his pocket. “Added security,” he stated as he then led them into the bay.

  When the lights came up Kalea gasped.

  Bryan was glad that he was capable of schooling his features because otherwise his jaw would be on the floor. Obviously Kalea hadn’t planned on anything like this either. Taking in the smooth lines and sheer size he wondered how the arrival of a ship of this size with obvious military potential would be received.

  “Gilbert, it’s huge!” Kalea said with amazement.

  “It was to be Father’s new command ship,” Gilbert replied calmly.

  “But…I’m going to need Jackson. We’re also going to need a full crew complement and additional supplies for them.” Turning to Bryan she asked, “How will your Father and the other leaders of Saxionias react to our arriving in this ship?”

  “Good question,” Bryan began. “I assume that this is fully armed and capable of all that a command ship would normally be used for?” At Gilbert’s nod he wiped his hand over his face and continued, “That being the case there might be a little concern. If I notify my father and the Assembly - they are similar to your Advisory Board - anyway, if I contact them in advance, I think they will understand. Actually it might work to your advantage.”

  “What do you mean?” Evan asked his curiosity peeked.

  “My father and the Assembly have no idea why it is so important that Princess Kalea come with the Environmental Restoration Teams. Nor does my Father understand what it means that Princess Kalea will one day be queen. It’s been explained to him repeatedly, but he simply refuses to believe it. Perhaps her arriving in this ship will help to make it clear that Princess Kalea is everything your government has always claimed she is,” Bryan explained.

  ‘It will certainly be different than Jasmine’s arrival to Estar Beta,’ Kalea shared privately over the link. Bryan had to fight the laughter that the comparison provoked.

  “As long as it doesn’t start a war, we should be fine,” Gilbert said as he led everyone into the ship and on a brief tour. He purposely avoided the weapons and engineering areas as well as the fighter bays. They toured the captain’s quarters, crew quarters, galley, common areas, and ended in the garden on the ship's lower level. The garden actually also functioned as part of the waste water processing plant. By using natural methods of water purification through soil and plant filtration it decreased the need for chemical cleansing techniques, though few would ever notice as only the far edge of the garden area held the bulrushes and other plants that were primarily involved in the process.

  “I love the garden,” Kalea enthused as she relaxed and tried not to think about the responsibility this ship carried with it. “It was ingenious to include it.”

  “Father didn’t want all of Estar Beta left behind,” Gilbert explained as he remembered the discussions they had prior to the ship being built. “He needed it to have a valid purpose to justify the use of this much space. The engineers wanted another storage bay but Father, of course, won in the end. He calls it the Atrium.”

  Gilbert and Kalea shared a smile over that and then Kalea turned to Franklin, “You need to send for Jackson immediately. We will need to make a complete crew list and get them here.” Pausing to think, Kalea didn’t expect Franklin to answer but he did.

  “Your Highness, when I reset my AVID, I had several messages waiting. One was from Jackson notifying me of his arrival on 2nd Day. Another was from King Douglas, instructing me to remind you to reset your AVID.” Franklin was an expert at concealing his emotions, but Kalea didn’t even have to look to see the spark of laughter in his eyes. As soon as he had mentioned resetting his AVID she had found the small button on hers to do the same.

  “I’m not sure how you initiate the reset,” Bryan said as he looked at his AVID.

  “Here,” Kalea reached for his arm and showed him the small button at the top left of the display. “They designed it to be a little hard to press so it wouldn’t get bumped unintentionally.”

  Kalea’s AVID started flashing and she realized she had messages too. “Gilbert,” she called as she saw him leaving the garden area. He stopped and turne
d so she continued, “I need to check messages and get a good workout in. Should I move onto the ship or take quarters on the space port until we are ready to launch?” Walking back he stopped before her as he replied.

  “I guess it’s your decision, but I would suggest taking quarters on the space port. I’m not sure how much longer it will take to get everything finished before you can launch.” Glancing over her shoulder, he made sure Bryan was out of hearing when he continued softly, “It might be easier to maintain the ship's integrity if you and Bryan were not aboard. Also, are you sure about this Benjamin Kellman?”

  “As sure as we can be,” Kalea answered and then pointed out the obvious. “Bryan is my husband and though he doesn’t have security clearance yet, one day soon, he will. Work as best you can with Benjamin and plan on him coming with Bryan and me when we leave. Maybe he will prove useful later. This is all going to be done in a rushed manner which is rarely good, so do your best and pray to the Holy One for wisdom and guidance, and then leave the outcome to Him.”

  Gilbert nodded just as her AVID beeped. Benjamin had arrived.

  Kalea smiled and turned back to the garden. “Franklin, we will need quarters on the space port until the ship is ready to launch. I need a good workout so I am going to try out the ship’s fitness equipment while you make the arrangements.”

  Turning to where Bryan and Uncle Evan were talking, Kalea said with a smile, “Bryan, while I work out why don’t you um…” She shrugged then turned and said, “Uncle Evan, if you could meet us later for a meal, I would appreciate it.”

  “Of course dear,” Uncle Evan answered. “Bryan and I will be happy to meet you later. After all what newly married woman wants her groom to see her all sweaty? Come along Crown Prince Bryan, we can take a walk and get to know one another better.”

  “You’re sure?” Bryan asked, and Uncle Evan replied, “Certainly.”

  Bryan glanced back and she smiled then said via the link. ‘He probably just wants time to get to know you when I’m not there. Have fun.’

  ‘I’ll try.’ Bryan answered as he tried to catch up with what her Uncle Evan was saying.

  Kalea could hear her Uncle tell Bryan that he meant no disrespect but he was going to call him Bryan from now on since they were family and his title was just too long. Smiling, Kalea retraced her steps to the fitness area they had passed earlier and began to work out some of her remaining anxiety while she listened to her many messages all of which were from her Father.

  ~

  Clean but now physically exhausted, Kalea joined Uncle Evan, Bryan, Gilbert and Rose for what she hoped was the evening meal. “I really miss the sun in the sky,” she mumbled to herself as she took her seat at the table.

  “Don’t worry, you’ll adjust,” Uncle Evan whispered as he took the seat to her left and Bryan claimed the one on her right.

  Listening to the conversation around the table Kalea felt too tired to think and simply ate. Everyone noticed, so they didn’t try to include her, although they did give her opportunities to join in. Finally Kalea said, “I’m sorry everyone, but I’m going to go get some rest. I’ll see you all tomorrow, won’t I?” she asked looking straight at her Uncle Evan.

  “Oh, certainly, My Dear,” he answered. “Now off with you. I have several more stories of your youth to share with Bryan that you probably don’t want to relive.”

  Kalea gave him a mock frown and then said, “Well if you didn’t, I suppose Gilbert would. Good night all.” With a wave she slipped out into the corridor and followed Danielson to the suite of rooms she and Bryan would share. Franklin had thought of everything and so after making sure she was in the room with her things, she collapsed on the bed and slept.

  ~

  Bryan was a little concerned that Kalea seemed so tired but he realized that he didn’t really remember her sleeping much on the shuttle. He had assumed she was sleeping when he was but now he wondered.

  Gilbert was distracted. He and Benjamin had only stopped working long enough to eat and Bryan was sure that was only so Rose wouldn’t be upset. Bryan didn’t envy Gilbert his work, but he did wish he could find some way to help. Having sent Leo back to Saxionias with his personal shuttle, he felt completely cut off. With nothing to occupy his time he had spent the evening conversing with Uncle Evan, and though that was enjoyable, he wondered if this was a taste of what his life would be like when things calmed down and he returned to Estar Beta.

  Not liking the direction of his thoughts, Bryan soon excused himself and followed Pierce to his suite. Once he entered he found Danielson guarding the door to Kalea’s bedroom and was a bit surprised. It must have shown in his expression because Danielson said, “Standard practice when off world. Your men are coming. They were delayed by the local authorities. Franklin finally got it straightened out and is bringing them in now. They are quartered across the hall as are we.”

  “Thank you for explaining. I got used to not having them every moment at the palace. Perhaps I am more tired than I thought.” Bryan shrugged and entered his room. Part of him wanted to give himself a severe talking to, but instead he just went to bed.

  ~

  Kalea awoke and prepared for her day with a good long shower and a meaningful time reading the Ancient Writings and committing her way unto the Holy One.

  Only when her stomach really got her attention did she decide to seek out food and company. Exiting her bedroom she was surprised to find Bryan and Uncle Evan eating. There was no room to sit at the small table in front of the cushioned seats, because it was heavily loaded with food.

  “Good morning!” She greeted them as she grabbed a plate and began to fill it.

  “Good morning. Although local time it is almost mid-day,” Uncle Evan pointed out before taking another bite.

  “Oh, is it that late?” Kalea asked as she took the third seat.

  “Yes, but since I think you needed the sleep, I didn’t want to disturb you,” Bryan answered.

  “I did need it, thanks,” Kalea said between bites.

  The sound of a throat clearing brought everyone’s attention around to Franklin, who was standing just inside the door. “Excuse the interruption, Your Highness, but I thought you would want to know that the first transport has arrived. Gilbert also asked that you contact him after you’ve eaten.”

  “Thank you, Franklin,” Kalea replied and then turned back to the others. “It sounds like I have a busy day. What will you two be doing?”

  When neither of them answered immediately Kalea grew concerned. She quickly tried to think of something that Bryan could help with but came up blank. Most everything on her agenda involved organizing the arriving staff and working with Jackson on familiarizing themselves with the ship's newer technologies and weapons systems.

  There really wasn’t anything he could help with. Plus with the change in policy regarding the Saxionias delegation Kalea couldn’t include Bryan until all the codes were established and the system secure.

  The irony of the situation didn’t escape her that Benjamin, Bryan’s friend and staff member was helping to increase the security of those very systems.

  “I think I’ll explore the station, I mean space port, Bryan finally said.

  “I’ll join you,” Evan said as if he didn’t know every nook and cranny already.

  “You’ll have to let me know how it compares to one of your space stations,” Kalea said in an effort to try to smooth things over and make them seem normal.

  ‘I really do understand. I’ll be fine,’ Bryan said via the link.

  ‘This isn’t really a honeymoon though is it?’ Kalea asked.

  ‘No. We knew it wouldn’t be. I know you’re going to be busy and just wish I could help. I’m not used to not being needed or useful,’ Bryan admitted.

  “You two need to remember you’re not alone,” Uncle Evan said as he set his plate down. “Here and on Estar Beta we will understand that you’re having a private conversation and not mind all that much, but elsewhere, it will
draw unwanted attention. Many don’t understand our special gift and there is no way of knowing how it will be received should they learn of it. For your safety and privacy I suggest you remember to use your gift very carefully and with discretion.”

  “Sorry, Uncle Evan,” Kalea apologized silently chastising herself for being so careless. Hadn’t she mentioned this very issue to Bryan just last week?

  “I apologize also, Sir. I must admit to being fascinated by this amazing gift. However, I also see your point. I can test and know its limitations whereas others would just have to trust. Something few do willingly to this type of phenomenon. I probably should have been more cautious at first, but the concept so captivated me, I just rushed in. Not my normal reaction I assure you.”

  “As we explore today, we can discuss it further,” Evan said as he noticed they had both finished eating. “For now I suggest that we send Kalea off to her tasks and we set off on our own adventure.”

  Kalea stood and hugged her uncle, giving him an extra squeeze and then looked at Bryan but wasn’t sure what would be best. Finally she shrugged and said, “Call me when you are ready to eat again. Then we will at least all be on the same, slightly off schedule.” Everyone laughed as the door closed behind her.

  “That was odd,” Evan said once he was sure the door was securely closed.

  “Yes,” Bryan admitted as he flopped back down into his chair. “We were both so busy on Estar Beta after the ceremony that we were always just coming and going. We’ve had a few talks but our going separate ways never felt like a farewell before. It didn’t seem so bad at the palace but now…”

  “You’ve heard stories about Kalea from me and I’m sure others in the family, but I don’t think anyone has laid it out for you, so I will.” Evan looked Bryan in the eye as he continued making sure Bryan got the message. “Kalea has never had a relationship with a man that she was not related to. Her role in life has been clear since her birth and clearer still since her youth. She attended University, but she never really felt drawn to any of the young men and to be honest most seemed intimidated by her. She’s smart, confident and will someday be queen. That’s hard for many men to deal with.