Dangerous Rainbows

by

James Ashman

© 2010 by James Ashman
All rights reserved.

Smashwords Edition

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the author. However, if this was purchased electronically, the purchaser may modify, convert, or copy the file for their personal, non-commercial uses.

All questions, comments, concerns, or requests for information should be addressed to the author at:

James Ashman
togetherwithsilver@gmail.com
http://www.jamesashman.com

Dedicated to Fiona. Blame her for the silly title!


Chapter 1

The last time Alquin had seen a real sunset was the last day of his life on Exoquis. He watched the gradual orange and red cut through the deep blue sky. The clouds added life and mystery to the otherwise dull sky. The hues mixed and danced, slowly. Alquin hummed while watching the masterpiece of daylight.
"Commander," a voice said, interrupting Alquin's silence. Alquin sighed, and then he answered the unseen voice.
"What is it?" Alquin asked.
"Sir, the third garrison has collapsed. Your orders?"
"I'll be there momentarily. Have the remnants of the third, if any, join the second's flank. I don't care if they are too damaged, have them join."
"Yes sir."
Alquin sighed again. He stood up and watched as the virtual sun made its way over the holographic mountain. He put his hands in his pockets, turned around, and walked down the hill.
"End program." The simulated sunset disappeared, replaced by the familiar walls of the recreation room. A black and gold uniform replaced his simulated jeans and t-shirt. Crests and adornments were scarce on his jacket, but the ones that had won their way onto his chest were prominent and recognizable from a distance.
Alquin came upon the bridge's entrance after walking through several corridors. He sucked in some air, puffed-up his chest a bit, and then exhaled.
The sliding bridge door revealed a massive center of noise and commotion. Alquin took a seat in the commander's chair.
"Sir," said the voice from earlier. It belonged to a young man, no younger than Alquin, who bore the same air of pride and dignity that Alquin had walked in with.
"Any change, Relos?"
"No sir. It's becoming a static exchange."
"Relos, the sir isn't necessary with us."
"Alquin," Relos said, "while on duty, it would be better if the others didn't think our friendship was getting in the way of work."
Relos had said it quiet enough for only Alquin to hear. Alquin nodded, and made a mental note to remember Relos' words.
"Good," Alquin said. "Our numbers are superior, a one-to-one exchange is fine. Keep at it. Why was I interrupted for this? The third garrison wasn't so important."
"That's not all, sir. The third garrison wasn't destroyed by the main fleet. A roaming band of ships suddenly attacked them from the flank, destroying them before they could respond."
"What? Where is the band?"
"I'm sorry sir, they are already gone."
"Blast. I'll want a full report later. If nothing else, I'm retiring until the battle is complete."
"Yes sir."
Alquin stood up, saluted the dozens of soldiers in the room, and then walked out. He took refuge in his private room, where he discarded his uniform, laid on his bed, and then stared at the ceiling.
 
"For winning the fourth battle of Jenes, we award Alquin Tor Rinard this medal of fourth honor. May he keep winning, for the glory of the Ingrid! Hail the Ingrid Empire!"
An official placed a medal around Alquin's neck while he bowed. Around them, the sounds of thousands of cheers rose, eventually becoming a deafening cry. While no one could see his expression, Alquin smiled. He stood upright, his face solemn and stoic. The crowds cheered even more as Alquin raised a hand in salute. He turned and saluted the admiral who had placed the medal on him. The admiral replied in kind. Alquin then walked offstage, holding himself high and proud. Only a few minutes passed while he made his way to a waiting car.
"Tired?" Relos asked from inside the car. Alquin entered the long car and sat next to Relos.
"Yes. Another award. The ceremony always drags on, that's the only problem." Alquin reached into a side compartment and removed a bottle of wine.
"Aren't you glad?" Relos opened a compartment on his side of the car and pulled out a couple of wine glasses.
"Ecstatic. Another day, and another step closer. Cheers, my friend." Alquin poured the red liquid into two glasses. A brief clang, and then each of them took a drink.
"How about Charlotte?"
"Don't speak of her here. Anyways, I should think that award ceremonies should be a bit briefer. Honor the person worth honoring, and do away with the fanfare. Give me what I deserve, and let me decide how to spend my time."
"Of course. But Alquin, just what do you deserve?" Relos asked. A playful smile revealed what Alquin already knew.
"Have you secured my meeting with Lord Benyon?"
"It's at three on the fourteenth."
"Good."
 
"Yue? Yue? Are you there, Yue?" The woman's voice didn't elicit any response. She knocked at a door a few times. "Yue? Answer me. Wake up!"
The young woman waited for a while. She tapped a foot, crossed her arms, and scolded under her breath. The sound of the door unlocking was heard after several minutes had passed.
"Oh, it's Miku," Yue said. He had opened the door slowly, revealing a man older than Miku by a few years. He was dressed in only a shirt and shorts. His dark hair was a mess. He rubbed his eyes while wishing he could sleep longer. Miku took a brief look at Yue, and then pushed him aside as she entered the room.
"Oh, Yue. This place is covered in old clothes again. Why don't they give you more rest? Every time, I come to find you've let this place go in just a day and a half."
"I get enough, Miku."
"No, it's not. I woke you up, didn't I? It's already past noon! You've been on leave for two days already. You're too tired."
"I chose to stay up late, strategy. It's not their fault."
"I swear, you'd work in your sleep if you knew how. Unbelievable. Here, just let me help. You keep sleeping in the other room."
"It's all right. Coffee?"
Miku sighed and walked about the room, cleaning as she went. Yue stood back and poured a couple cups of coffee. Four sugar cubes and two tablespoons of cream went into one cup.
"How do you take yours?" Yue asked.
"Black."
 
Alquin Tor Rinard sat at the back of a black limousine. Four others were there as well, all in black and gold uniforms, each one more decorated than Alquin's was. The various generals spoke in turn, each describing the new development in the war. Finally, it was Alquin's turn.
"My battalion can handle that defense. Planet Tindal's defense, that is. Please rest assured, Lord Benyon," Alquin said. The three other generals each murmured something under their breaths. Lord Benyon, the oldest and most decorated of the bunch, nodded his head approvingly.
"Alquin, was it? Your battle at Grip has made waves in the ranks. Your last battle, won splendidly, wasn't it?" Lord Benyon asked.
"You flatter me sir. It was nothing to brag of. If anything, it was just an exchange of ships. I won with no more brilliance than what was required to outnumber the enemy," Alquin said. The other generals again murmured among the three of them.
"Your strategy?" asked one of the generals.
"Sir, the same as always. Do my utmost with trust in my men and the emperor's ships," Alquin said, his smile appearing serene and complacent. The general turned away from the handsome face, unable to voice a response.
"Excellent. I look forward to it," Lord Benyon said. The limousine stopped and the generals exited the car. A few moments passed, after which Relos arrived. He took a seat across from Alquin. The limousine started moving again.
"How did it go?" Relos asked.
"Miserable. But perfect," Alquin said.
"The ship is ready. We can go at anytime. Are you sure you want to go now?"
"At once. I have to tell her."
"But sir, think about it. Won't it raise suspicion?"
"I don't care Relos! We will see Charlotte! I don't care what that general said, he won't deny me now that I'm in Lord Benyon's favor."
"But you are not in his favor." Relos held out a closed fist and slowly opened it. Inside was a small bracelet made of pearls and gold threads.
"Did you see her?"
"No. She sent this, alone."
"Blast. Fine. Verify the ship's course to the battlefield. Blast."
"I already did, sir."
"Thank you, Relos. I was rash, I apologize."
"It's alright, Alquin."
The car stopped at the spaceport. A short while later Alquin boarded a ship and made his way to the bridge.
"Commander Alquin! The fleet awaits your orders, sir," said a dark-haired youth.
"We're advancing on Tindal. We won't lose it, for our empire," Alquin said.
"Yes sir," the youth said. He gave a brilliant smile and began to turn.
"Wait. Your name?" Alquin asked.
"Yes sir. Terv. Terv Rend. An officer cadet. Thank you, sir."
"Good. I like you. Continue your duties," Alquin said. The youth gave an even wider smile, briefly flashing his teeth, unable to bear his joy. He gave a salute, turned sharply on his heels, and then walked away.
"That was?" Relos asked.
"He was good. And young, unformed. He exemplifies what I need," Alquin said.
"I see. I understand," Relos said.
Alquin took his seat in the commander's chair. Relos stood a little behind and to the side of Alquin, his hands behind his back. After giving a command to the navigator, the ship took off. Behind Alquin's ship was the fleet he commanded, hundreds of ships with thousands of people on each. Soon they had gotten some distance from the planet. They accelerated to near-light speeds, reaching the nearby relay after a few minutes. They used the relay to travel faster-than-light to the relay near planet Tindal. After a few minutes, they had arrived at the battlefield.
The randomly appearing specks of light were the signs of battle a distance away from where the ships had stopped. They approached slowly as Alquin gave directions to the fleet, setting up the strategies and formations.
"Five minutes, sir," the navigator said.
"Begin battle preparations. Be prepared to attack at first sight. We're running in, take them by surprise," Alquin said.
"Yes sir."
In relation to the rest of the fleets, Alquin's fleet acquired a triangular formation when viewed horizontally, but each ship was on a different vertical plane. Heeding Alquin's commands, the fleet sped into the already-progressing battle.
The allied fleet received the message to retreat only a few moments before Alquin's fleet arrived. The additional ships that were lost by the empire in the retreat had the effect Alquin was looking for. The enemy advanced on the empire's ships, though they were aware of Alquin's advance.
Alquin reached the coalition ships a moment before they would have breached the newly formed line of empire ships. Alquin's ships fired blasters and missiles all at once, creating a brilliant sight. Tens of coalition ships fell as Alquin's advance cut through them. He sat back and grinned as the disoriented ships tried turning to counter him, to no avail.
The battle advanced smoothly, from Alquin's point of view, for about ten minutes, during which dozens more ships fell, most of them coalition.
"Commander, we have an issue," one of the operations officers handling logistics said.
"What is it?" Alquin asked.
"Our fleet is advancing. Excuse me, not your fleet, but the general that was already here. He isn't heeding the warning and is advancing. No, his ships are starting to mingle with the coalition ships in front of us! Sir, we have to stop or we will attack our own men," the officer said.
"Blast, tell him to retreat," Alquin said.
"Sir, he said he can't. His ships are being forced in. There is a group of ships at his flank! Sir, your orders?"
"At his back? How did that happen? Blast. Regroup!"
The dance of ships and attacks continued as the empire and coalition ships slowly separated, forming two distinct groups. The coalition had come with a large force to begin with, but the battle had reduced its size to two-thirds the size of the remaining empire forces. The two separately commanded fleets on the empire's side created confusion, which led to the coalition soon having an advantageous, though outnumbered, position.
A while later the battle ended. The coalition left first, cutting their losses. The empire was still able to fight without issue, but the number of ships lost was more than Alquin had planned. Nevertheless, the empire won the battle. Afterwards, Alquin sent a message to the allied general, asking what had happened.
"First, I'll thank you for your help. We wouldn't have won as fast without you. But, second, because of your confounded strategy, I lost some good officers. You didn't account for the enemy driving my flank forward. That's all," the general said, and then he ended his transmission.
"At his flank? How did that happen? That wasn't the situation when I arrived. Relos!"
"Yes sir?"
"Get me what information you can on what happened to the general," Alquin said.
"I've already tried. But it appears it was a detachment of ships, separate from the main fleet, who had appeared from the far side of the planet," Relos said.
"So were they waiting for us to attack before I even arrived?"
"Possibly. I'm not sure, sir."
"A detachment, odd. Well, good job anyways," Alquin said.
 
"Yue! I heard about it, another job well done."
"Thank you, sir," Yue replied. He tapped his glass against the man's, and then took a drink.
"You'd think they'd give you more to work with, now that you've gone and done it again. What are they calling you these days?" the man asked.
"Nothing that I'd care to repeat. I'm just doing my duty," Yue said.
"Nonsense. Don't let the Comet of Helt tell you he hasn't done much." A man a little older than Yue arrived and put a hand on Yue's shoulder.
"Oh? Comet of Helt? That's a good one, I like it," the first, older man said. He laughed heartily and then took a drink. He gave a short wave, and then walked off into the crowd of the party.
"So what has our hero been up to, hiding in the shadows at the party being held for him alone?" the man asked.
"I don't do so well with crowds, you know that," Yue said. He gave a slight smile while looking around.
"Learn to love them. You'll be seeing more and more of them as you rise. Right?"
"I don't need to rise."
"He's too modest," Miku said. She had withdrawn from the crowd and taken her place at Yue's side.
"Lovely, as always, Miku," the man said.
"And you to, sir," Miku said while keeping her expression flat for a moment. She then smiled.
"Ha! Much better, much. For all his brilliance, I still think Yue Fei here is a boorish man."
"You're probably right. You are. Yue, you aren't offended? That's a bit boorish itself," Miku said.
"Thank you Miku. There is nothing better for me to be, right now," Yue said.
"I'm joking. See, even I have trouble telling if Yue is being serious or not. What do you think, sir?" Miku asked.
"I think I'm going to see whether that girl in the green dress wants to dance or not. Excuse me." The man emptied his glass, gave another wink to Yue, and then left.
"Dance with me," Miku said.
Without a word, Yue Fei obliged. Together they danced, in a room full of military personnel in celebration mode. They danced in celebration of Yue's work and achievements, and let the night pass away.
 
The fifth battle of Londir went well in Alquin's opinion. Londir was an artificial asteroid in a key sector, so winning the fifth battle, and subsequently securing the sector, was a great achievement. The emperor rewarded Alquin appropriately for being the only commander to produce more than the usual stalemate regarding Londir.
"It was great," Relos said. He and Alquin sat in the house of a general, surrounded by old admirals and their would-be counterparts.
"Yes, yes it was," said an old admiral who hadn't been in combat since the second battle of Londir, twenty years ago. "I saw it played out. Fine strategy for one so young."
"Thank you sir. To be honest, I was simply using a mix of strategies from the past. Elements of your battle there as well, were used in my ultimate plan. I cannot take much credit," Alquin said.
"No, no, it was wonderful. You're a great lad," said a retired general. "In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if your next win ended up with a social promotion, not just military."
"I'm still too young for that. But thank you for your mention, it is appreciated," Alquin said.
"No, you should consider it," the former general said. The other old men in attendance also nodded in agreement.
Alquin smiled and nodded at the man's words. He didn't need to say anymore. He knew that these old generals and admirals, though retired, still held extreme importance in the empire. They were instrumental in deciding what kinds of promotions people received, though it was secret knowledge that they had such power. What they didn't know was that Alquin had found out about that secret long ago.
"Thank you sirs, it has been a pleasure, as always. Admiral, I truly appreciate you letting me borrow those records. I'll be back to continue our banter later, after an outpost is secured in a fringe sector. Thank you, gentlemen," Alquin said.
Relos and Alquin left the men to their usual boredom and reminiscence. It had been productive, as always, for Alquin to speak with men who had done works of greatness that still exceeded his own. Though he had an objective, he did enjoy speaking with them.
"Was it enough?" Relos asked.
"It's never enough. But it's a start," Alquin said.
"I have the names now. The first one will be the worst of it," Relos said.
"Then we will head to him first," Alquin said. He gave the driver a message, and soon they were on their way to a new objective.
The car stopped at the gates to a mansion, and waited as the driver conversed with someone over an intercom. Eventually the gates opened, letting the car in.
The marquis was waiting for Alquin before the car arrived. Marquis Jaces von Brut was middle-aged, tall, and had black hair. With a glass of whiskey in hand, the robe and slippers he was wearing did nothing to diminish his dignity.
"Well, it really is the Alquin. And the ever-present right-hand man, Relos. I've heard much about you, come in," Jaces said. Alquin and Relos obliged without hesitation. They soon relaxed in a private room where they could discuss things without interruption.
"Thank you for seeing us without prior notice, sir," Alquin said. Jaces frowned.
"Drop the pretense and start talking about why you're here. Although, from the way your man was snooping around, I've already suspected much. Well?" Jaces asked.
"I need support," Alquin said.
"For what?" Jaces asked. His brow was straight.
"To join the aristocracy," Alquin said. Jaces' expression didn't change, but he did take a drink of whiskey.
"Have you been nominated yet? No, that's not possible. Even if you were, why come to me?"
"He will be, soon," Relos said. "But he still needs the approval of enough pure nobles. Especially to become a pure."
"Ha!" Jaces lost his frown and smiled. "You're dreaming. We're called pure because we were born to nobility. You cannot go back and change your birth, no matter what achievements you get."
"True as that is, it doesn't change that it's still just a title. It isn't unheard of, for a pure designation to be given by the emperor," Relos said.
"Do you really think it's that easy? Quiet, I'll speak with Alquin himself," Jaces said. He returned to his frown.
"Of course it's not easy. But with support, it's possible," Alquin said.
"I'll be dead before I give you my support. I don't want to be one to taint the designation given to me, naturally," Jaces said.
"Hear me out. Think of what you could gain from my ascendance," Alquin said.
"What are you talking about? I cannot gain anything from anything you do. Why are you wasting your time here?" Jaces asked.
"You're still listening. Is this room secure?" Alquin asked.
"Of course."
"Neville," Alquin said.
Jaces' expression changed. He set his glass of whiskey aside. He closed his eyes, held his head in his hands, and then took a few deep breaths.
"How do you know that name?" Jaces asked after a while.
"Not how. But why. In this thing, we have a camaraderie. Why should they be stolen from us, simply because someone more important wants them?" Alquin asked.
"That's how it is, that's why. Don't give me a false hope. Even if you rise further, it won't bring back Neville. She's gone," Jaces said.
"Then change the system," Alquin said. "Make the empire a place where your daughter, my friend, and others can choose to love freely."
"That's the problem, it won't change!" Jaces said. He brought a hand to his face and wiped his cheeks.
"It will if I force it. That's why I need to start here, with you. Think about it for a moment," Alquin said.
"Ridiculous. You can't force it. The only person who can force it, that would be the emperor," Jaces said. He shook his head in disappointment for a moment. "Wait. Wait, what are you thinking?"
"Do I have your attention now?" Alquin asked.
"I don't know how you could do it. Wait, I'm assuming things. I'm sorry, you wouldn't do that. Would you? I cannot speak of what I think. This, this is too much," Jaces said.
"Rebellion. Overthrow the emperor. Take forceful control over the empire. Remove the obscene privileges of the aristocrats. Pour resources into the war, winning it once and for all. End our feud with those in higher positions who think they can buy people as merchandise. Yes, I would. And I can. It starts with your support. Are you scared of what they can do to you, should we fail?"
"They can do nothing worse than they already have. Even a pure noble should have some decency. I'll give up whatever title I have to restore decency. And Neville," Jaces said. He stood up, walked over to Alquin, and held out his hand. Alquin stood and shook Jaces' hand. A while later, Alquin and Relos left the estate, leaving Jaces to himself.
Jaces wandered the hallways of his mansion, quietly contemplating what had happened. When he looked around to see where he had ended up, he nearly cried in realization. The picture of his lost wife hung on the wall. He reached up and traced the outline of her face.
"Juliette, I've failed to protect your Neville. I swear; I'll redeem myself. Or I will die trying. You cannot hold her hand anymore, but the day will come when she will see your picture daily. I'll tread through blood to see that day. I'm sorry, I won't be worthy of you after that."
Nearby was another bottle of whiskey and several glasses. His hands shook as he poured himself a drink.
"The last one. No more," Jaces said. He then drank the last drop of alcohol he would have in his life.

Chapter 2

Relos stood at the entrance to the ballroom. At his sides were two guards, each in black and silver uniforms. Together they guarded the entrance to the room full of generals, nobility, and royalty. Inside, Alquin was enjoying the company of those he would rather avoid.
Alquin held his glass faithfully, never sipping too much, never getting a refill. He'd walk around for a moment, catch the eye of an important person, walk over, and then talk with them for a bit. It was all general, all part of the formality of the situation.
On one side of the great room sat the host, one of the great admirals of the empire. He sat in a massive chair adorned with silver and jade. Its unmoving majesty matched the solid presence that the admiral projected.
"Enjoying the festivities?"
"Yes," Alquin said. He turned to see who had asked. It was a general he knew by reputation and face only. "Thank you for asking, Rek Lund, sir."
"What a privilege! To think the rising star of the empire, the Alquin, knows my name. What an honor," Rek said. Keeping both hands at his side, he gave a deep bow.
Alquin took a moment before saying anything more. Rek was much more accomplished than Alquin, noble, and not much older. Alquin wasn't sure whether Rek was being sincere or not, considering their circumstances. Alquin knew that some in the upper ranks of the empire wouldn't like his rising power, but he was still unsure of who was opposed to him.
"I should imagine that the child of the emperor knows the name of Rek Lund. It's not impressive that I know it," Alquin said.
"Ah, well, the empire is my life. To see it last, I may have to take such an unbearable responsibility such as being known by others," Rek said. Alquin smiled, realizing that Rek didn't notice the insulting subtext to Alquin's words.
"How has the coalition been treating you?" Alquin asked. He was genuinely interested in what Rek had to say about the war.
"Bites and scratches. But I've been beating them back, bit by bit. The third moon on Ellis has been a bloody battleground. We're just as entrenched there as the dogs, but neither side is giving way. Well, mine won't. But still, it's terrible. Worst I've seen," Rek said. Alquin nodded in contemplation. His personal battles had mostly been in areas where no clear lines had been drawn, always fringe planets just inside the empire's territory.
The important generals were waging war on the front lines, planets where entire civilizations lived, and giant military installations. Still more were assigned to the relays responsible for allowing faster-than-light travel. Though he had contributed, indirectly, to saving a relay from falling into coalition hands near Tindal, Alquin hadn't yet had a great accomplishment. His several smaller accomplishments were all that were propelling him forward. Those, and the strategy he had shown on several occasions.
"I see," Alquin said. Rek gave a nod and a slight bow, and then left Alquin.
Alquin associated with a few more generals, though he was unable to speak with many of the nobles. The military men were far more willing to speak with another military member than those of the aristocracy were. As much as Alquin needed them, they didn't want him, and he wouldn't force the issue.
"Alquin! There you are! Come here, I've got to introduce you to a few associates of him," Jaces said, appearing at Alquin's side without prior notice. Before he could accept or reject, Jaces pulled him away from the generals.
"Jaces?" Alquin asked. Jaces answered quietly.
"I'm helping you. You'll want to remember the names and faces of these people. Some to like, some to dislike, but I'll only tell which afterwards. Get acquainted first, this is a step," Jaces said. Alquin didn't question further. Understanding that Jaces had made up his mind completely, Alquin readied himself.
Outside, Relos wandered the grounds. He had rotated with another guard, and so he had a chance to view the splendor of the estate. The admiral who owned it was one of the most decorated war heroes from long ago, making him very rich at the end of his career. The borders of the estate were miles apart, with all sorts of greenery, gardens, artificial lakes, and houses in-between.
Relos took in the view while following the weaving paths. He started on one side of the mansion, walked for a while, and then stopped when he reached the other side. This side of the mansion had a large pool just outside the ballroom's section. On the other side of the pool were forests that stretched for several miles, ending at the fence that kept the grand estate isolated from the rest of the world. Relos thought it was grand, but not deserved. A man that still couldn't end the war, treated lavishly. Relos knew it wasn't likely that the war would end soon, so he disregarded his momentary thought as something emotional and random. He didn't really believe it.
The night air was cool and smelled sweet. The green trees of the forest were a blessing to the soldier who had grown accustomed to industrial cities and the recycled air of spaceships. He took a deep breath, and then let it out.
"Alquin, yours will be better, I promise," Relos said. He took another breath and took a few steps on the path leading back to the front of the mansion. "The ruler's estate will look better. Your estate. You'll deserve it."
Relos walked again, but stopped after a few steps. A strange sound was in the air. At first Relos couldn't think of what it was, but then a memory from his childhood surfaced.
"A red ball?" Relos asked aloud. He turned to see several red balls bouncing out of the forest. They looked almost the same as the ones he had played with as a child. But they weren't the same bouncy items as then. Another memory surfaced, but this one was much more recent. It was from an encyclopedia on weapons.
The dozen red balls bounced into the pool and the surrounding area. One stopped by the back door of the ballroom. Relos hesitated for a moment, but he knew better than to stop for long. He turned and ran away from the area as fast as he could. While running, he took another deep breath.
"Bombs! There are bombs in the pool, run!" Relos' scream echoed in the distance, mocking his futile attempt at saving others. There was the sound of several explosions happening at once. Relos had still been too close. A shockwave hit him, knocking him down, and unconscious.
 
Miku looked over Yue Fei's shoulder at the report. Yue turned the page, not showing any concern that Miku was reading a secret report for Yue only. Yue scribbled something on the report.
"What if they respond with a false retreat?" Miku asked.
Without saying anything, Yue scribbled something else on the report. Miku smiled and kept reading. Yue turned another page. Then another.
"No response to the last one?" Miku asked.
"They wouldn't use it," Yue said.
"Would you?"
"I would, if near a planet. Otherwise, only with an extra two garrisons." Miku didn't say anything as pages flipped and more scribbles appeared. Eventually the final page turned, and then Yue put the papers down.
"You must be the last person I know who uses paper first." Yue looked up and smiled.
"It helps me keep organized."
"You? Organized? When?"
"In my head."
Miku laughed and walked to the front door. She took her coat off the rack and put it on, leaving Yue's coat alone on it.
"Are you ready to go now?" she asked. Yue stood up, put on his coat and shoes, and then nodded at Miku. They exited the house together, and then entered a waiting hovercar.
 
"An unfamiliar ceiling."
"Relos! Are you awake? Doctor! Doctor, come quick!"
"Where am I? I don't remember that ceiling."
Relos stared at the single square light. He thought it odd that the light was off, yet the room he was in was bright. It was as bright as daylight. That was it, he realized. He must be in a place where daylight could enter. But then what was the point of the light on the ceiling, he asked himself. A bright light, much brighter than the daylight, appeared in Relos' vision, causing him to close his eyes tightly.
"Relos? Can you hear me? I'm a doctor. Open your eyes so I can check them."
Relos took a few seconds mulling over the word doctor. He opened his eyes in response to the word, though he hadn't grasped its meaning. The bright light returned, but he kept his eyes open this time.
"Can you follow the light?"
Relos obeyed, following the bright object left and right, even though it bothered him. Then he remembered the meaning of the word doctor. Relos closed his eyes again.
"Relos?" the doctor asked.
"A moment, doctor," Relos said. Hearing his own words shocked him. His voice wasn't normal. Gradually, he realized things one by one. The feel of a needle in his arm. The lack of clothes. The wrapping around his head. The thirst that scratched at his throat. He realized that he was in a hospital.
"Think, Relos, why are you here?" Relos asked aloud to himself. He held up a hand without thinking.
Alquin was about to open his mouth, but seeing Relos raise his hand in a stop motion kept Alquin from talking. He bit his lip for a moment, and then gradually relaxed into a satisfied smile.
As if responding, Relos smiled as well. His eyes slowly opened, and he turned his head to look at Alquin.
"You're safe, Alquin. Good. There was an explosion. A bombing at the admiral's house. Correct?" Relos asked.
"Your senses are back, Relos. Just worry about yourself," Alquin said.
"I'm fine now. That must be the feeling a computer has when it first boots up. I'm up and running now, though I need a drink. I may sound like a frog, but I've got enough senses to know I still look like a handsome prince," Relos said.
Alquin laughed long and hard. It seemed exaggerated to Relos, but the eventual tears that started streaming down Alquin's face reassured Relos that Alquin was serious.
"That's right, you lucky prince. Lady luck is still in love with your looks. And all she could bear to harm were the hairs on your head. And give you a concussion," Alquin said. Relos reached up and patted his head.
"You lie, my hair is still all there," Relos said.
"Ha! Survive an explosion, and all you can do after recovering is joke," Alquin said. He laughed again, and then gave a wide smile to Relos. "I'm glad you're all right."
"Thank you Alquin. I'm just glad you are as well. I'm relieved. Those explosions must have been stifled by the pool. I'm relieved that you weren't hurt," Relos said. He bowed his head slightly, almost unconsciously.
"No, that's not true. Nothing was stifled. I was lucky. And you were extremely lucky. But several others were not," Alquin said, his tone serious. He turned to look at the doctor for a moment. The doctor took the hint and left the room.
"What happened there?" Relos asked.
"Someone knew that gathering was happening. They attacked with those unique bombs, standard empire-issue version. By the time the confusion was over, whoever had sent them was long gone. They had been in the forests. A section of the fence miles away had been breached, but the security system was bypassed. Brilliantly, at that."
"Who did it?" Relos asked.
"That's still being investigated, so I'm told. The first thought was coalition spies. That will probably be the official announcement. It'll be a bad day when that happens though. The war will escalate."
"Bad day?"
"To answer earlier, the water in the pool didn't stifle any part of the explosions. Those bombs float. If anything, it served to keep them from bouncing in the wrong direction or leaving the area. Whoever attacked knew what they were doing. And they were out for blood. There were several deaths. Not one or two, several. The official count hasn't been released, but I'll never forget the sight. Relos, you really are lucky. Dozens were killed. At least. All that, that scene. I won't describe it."
"Alquin? Dozens? But, those people weren't normal. The guests that night were all important, right?"
"Extremely. Several generals, many of the retired admirals, and many, many nobles were killed. And, don't repeat this out loud, none of the victims were loyalists."
"What? What does that mean?"
"The host, that admiral is a figurehead in the loyalists. He never budged from his chair. The explosions were all on the opposite side of the hall. All the loyalists were near him, forming a group slightly separate from the rest. Just like school, niches were forming. And just like two north poles, they were pushing against each other. It just so happened that the loyalists were all on the side of the room unaffected by the explosions."
"An internal job? Do you think they set this up, purposely trying to kill off those they thought discontent?"
"I make no claims. It's just something I noticed. Coincidence, probably. It would have happened whether or not a bombing were to happen. It's just that the loyalists picked the lucky side of the room. I won't rule anything out. Not when it interferes with my plans this much."
"You weren't on that side of the room?"
"Restroom was on the other side. Just as I walked out it happened. Luck, for both of us."
"Unbelievable. But I don't think it could have been planned by the loyalists. Too many other people, unrelated to the loyalists and the discontent."
"I thought so at first as well. But when you delve into the profiles of those who were casualties, a striking number of coincidences appear. And you'll understand then, especially when certain people were eliminated, who benefits."
"Was it anyone you needed?"
"Several. Including Jaces," Alquin said. He showed more expression than he had prior. Before, he had been reporting facts and speculation. But Jaces was personal. Alquin closed his eyes tightly for a moment.
"Jaces? Blast. A fine man. And, blast. So unfulfilled. He died without seeing his Neville freed. Such a good man had to die without satisfaction in life. It's too cruel. It's too cruel, Alquin."
"He died with a smile, Relos. I needed him, but he was freed. Listen, Relos. Some caught in the explosion truly do appear to have been random casualties, though none were really strict loyalists. Including those who had stolen from Jaces. He was a brave man, to come to a place and help us even when it meant seeing those he hated. He lost an arm and a leg, but he lived long enough to speak a few last words to me. The noble who stole his Neville had come, and had died as well."
"Poetic justice?"
"I doubt it. It's common practice. Had he been in greater power, I'd think Jaces would ruin someone else's family. But he didn't rejoice over their deaths, though he hated them. He said only that he could be happy that Neville would be free. He was glad to pay with his own life for it."
"He should have lived longer," Relos said.
Alquin nodded, acknowledging the thoughts that Relos conveyed without speaking further. Though he hadn't known Jaces for long, Alquin had developed an interest in him. The first of the several people Alquin had talked to was also the most interesting. Alquin only wished that Jaces had been able to enjoy his life more. Maybe in death he would be rewarded with freedom. Alquin left the thoughts aside and returned his attention to Relos, who was going to be in the hospital for a while. He decided against telling Relos what plans were in the works, for now.
 
"You know I'm not comfortable around him," Yue said. He looked out the window as the landscape passed him by.
"You and a long line of other people. It'll be fine," Miku said. She faced Yue, though he was looking the other direction. There was a slight bump in the road, prompting Yue to turn slightly.
"Did I really have to come?”
"Yes. He really does like you. Mother did too. Why complain now that we're already on the road?" She didn't wait for Yue to reply. She slapped her hands on her thighs, and then she slapped them together. "Alright!"
Yue turned to face Miku again. Her hands were together, vertical. She had bowed her head and closed both eyes. She opened one eye and looked up at Yue.
"Yes, yes, you win," Yue said. He laughed lightly and then turned to look out the window again.
A while passed, after which the car stopped. Yue and Miku thanked the driver, took their bags, and looked around at the new surroundings.
There was a distinct lack of paved roads. That was the first thing that Yue noticed, though he had been expecting the change. The one they had arrived from was one of the few that were apparent. A few power lines, reminiscent of years past, adorned a few places, though not many. Fields of rice could be seen, along with the workers in them. Bent over, barefoot, and in shallow water, the workers continued tending the rice.
The houses were wood, brick, and bamboo. A woman could be seen carrying a paper umbrella. A few small children kicked an old leather ball. A group of old men was sitting on some steps, smoking from handcrafted pipes.
"Come on Yue, no standing around," Miku said. She had already started walking. Yue took a moment to dissolve his interest in the ancient Asian atmosphere.
He and Miku walked through the small town, several of the residents waving at them as they did. Yue stood silently whenever Miku would stop to talk with one of them. He'd nod without word and smile softly whenever someone offered him a comment.
Eventually, after meeting with the butcher, baker, carpenter, and vegetable seller, the couple made their way to their true destination.
The single-story mansion of wood and paper was a majestic sight in its own way. The sliding doors and windows covered in paper looked fragile, but beautiful. Each one had a different painting on it, usually of black lines in a classic Japanese style.
Seeing the environment only reinforced what Yue already knew. He was in a place where he was completely out of the element. And the person he was to meet was at home and only comfortable in this ancient atmosphere, a relic of when the universe only knew of one important planet, Earth.
"Tadaima!" Miku yelled.
"Ojou-sama!" replied a loud voice from inside. After hearing the patter of steps, the door slid open to reveal an elderly woman dressed in a purple kimono. The obi she had was blue and tied with a golden thread.
"Ba-san! I'm home! How are you?" Miku asked while she dropped her bags and gave the woman a hug.
"Come in, come in! Let me prepare you tea and tell the master," the woman said.
"Thank you," Miku said. She took a step inside the house and removed her shoes.
"And this is?" the woman asked.
"Ah, this is Yue Fei. Remember him?" Miku asked.
"Fei-chan? So much taller," the woman said.
"Thank you, Ms. Yamada," Yue said. His right hand in the form of a first met the palm of his straightened left hand in front of him. Holding the gesture in front of him, he made a slight bow.
The woman held a sleeve to her mouth, hiding her small smile. But she had laughed, and Yue hadn't missed it. Yue felt confused, and looked at Miku, who was stifling a laugh.
"Aki, our bags," Miku said while smiling widely.
"Yes, Ojou-sama." Aki glanced at Yue again, her face bright and happy. She then took the bags and carried them off.
"What?" Yue asked.
"Japanese, not Chinese," Miku said. She laughed again, and then walked off in the direction Aki had gone.
"Japanese, not Chinese?" Yue asked aloud to himself. "You're Japanese. Not Chinese. Oh!"
After realizing his small mistake, Yue laughed, and then followed Miku. Aki led them to a room with a small table in the middle. Miku and Yue sat on cushions and crossed their legs. Aki left for a while, returning with tea, which she poured into three small cups.
"Master is coming," Aki said.
"Thank you, Ba-san. And don't forget, I want to hear all about Shinji and Nana. Oh, and also Akane, Ryoga, and Megumi. Oh, and the rest of them," Miku said.
"Yes, of course, I had planned it. I shall take my leave, Ojou-sama," Aki said. She bowed to Miku with her hands together on her thighs. She then turned to Yue and repeated the bow. A smile flicked across her face for a moment. She stood straight, brought her right first to her straight left hand in front of her, and gave a slight bow. She then turned and exited the room through a sliding door. Miku burst into laughter, while Yue felt his face flush with embarrassment.
"That wasn't so bad," Miku said.
"If that's how I do with Ms. Yamada, how will I avoid screwing up in front of your father?" Yue asked.
"Just be glad he doesn't require guests to sit formally. Cross-legged is bad enough. Now you know, though, what not to do," Miku said.
"I know, I know. I'll try not to use a Chinese greeting when meeting with a Japanese man. I had forgotten," Yue said.
"It's all right. Daddy will forgive your ignorance. You're not Japanese, anyways. And if he doesn't want to, I'll make him," Miku said, smiling.
"Daddy's girl," Yue said, teasingly.
"What did you call my daughter?" asked a deep and imposing voice. Yue's head turned towards the door, which slid open quickly and smoothly, revealing the imposing father.
He moved briskly, taking his place at the table before Yue could think. He was a middle-aged Japanese man with short, dark hair. He wore a loose green kimono, and his expression was flat. Yue felt the air change from a light atmosphere to an oppressive pressure.
"Oto-san, your daughter has returned," Miku said. She bowed her head slightly and kept it down.
"Welcome back," the man said. He crossed his arms and looked across the table at Yue.
Miku raised her head, and then sprung from her position with her hands out in front of her. In a moment, she had thrown herself around her father, giggling. Yue watched the event with uncertainty. But Miku's father didn't flinch in the least.
"You're Yue Fei," the man said.
"Yes," Yue said. He bowed his head slightly, and then returned the gaze that was penetrating him with unbearable intensity.
"Thank you for taking care of my daughter," the man said. The words rang strong and true. Yue thought for a moment, wondering what the man meant. Yue internally laughed at himself, as he had forgotten the nature of the person he was talking with.
"No, it was my duty. Miku-san is a good person and friend. I appreciate your thoughts," Yue said, hoping his etiquette was acceptable.
"Daddy, you're making him sweat," Miku said, still hugging her father.
"You're Yue Fei. Named after another famous figure. I respect what I know of him," the father said.
"My namesake was a far greater man that I shall ever be," Yue said.
The father nodded slowly, once. He took the cup in front of him, and then drank a bit of its contents. One hand on the cup, one underneath supporting it. Yue took his cup with two hands, one on each side. He raised it high, tipped it in a slight motion towards the father, and then brought it to his mouth. He took a long drink and emptied the cup, then held it out for the father to see that it was empty.
"Thank you," the father said. He sipped a bit of tea again. He placed his cup on the table, and then patted one of Miku's arms. She let go of him and returned to her seat. She glanced at Yue, a wide smile on her face. Across from Yue, the father stood up.
"Again, though we've met before. I am Tenraijin Genbu. I'm glad to see you and my Miku have stayed friends all these years," Genbu said. He bowed once deeply, and then stood straight. But there was something different about him when he rose. He had acquired a smile.
"Tenraijin?" Yue asked.
"Daddy's done scaring you now," Miku said. She was laughing a bit.
"What?" Yue asked.
"Lighten up!" Genbu spoke with a commanding voice with a smile that softened the impact of his words. Yue had to take a moment to absorb what was happening. Even then, he wasn't sure.
"He's only been pretending. Really, daddy is much more relaxed than you'd think, Fei," Miku said. Yue lost track of his thoughts when Miku called him by his first name. It wasn't often that she did, and she was using it in front of her father, of all times.
"Yes, Fei. Our little formalities are over. Miku tells me you're a bit stiff. You haven't made a smooth gesture yet," Genbu said.
"Tenraijin, sir, I'm not too sure," Yue said.
"Call me Genbu."
"I couldn't."
"I command it! Call me Genbu, Fei. Relax for a moment. You're caught up in the mood entirely," Genbu said.
"Then, Genbu," Yue said, finally getting into the mood that the scene had suddenly shifted to.
"Excellent! You'll make a fine commander if you can remember this. Not everything is as they first appear, and not everyone formal in appearance is formal in thought," Genbu said.
"But sir, Genbu, haven't you always been formal, from what I've seen?" Fei asked in a moment of casualness. He was surprised that he had said his real thoughts with such presumptuousness. He wouldn't have said them originally, if he knew that he was going to say and not just think them.
"Ha! Miku, what do you think?" Genbu asked.
"This is daddy, Fei. You didn't think I grew up to be like this when my father was so much different, did you?" Miku asked, a sly smile on her face.
"All these years?" Yue asked.
"Well, you were a kid back then. I didn't think much of it. Daddy's always been the obsidian Genbu. Hard, but sharp. Dark, but reflective. A staunch supporter of ancient ways, without being a slave to their restrictions. Surprised?" Miku asked.
"So the reason you forced me to come with you?" Yue asked.
"Something different entirely. But it's true. You were starting to remind me of daddy. But not his real character, just the one you remembered. The actor, that everyone else knew was acting but you," Miku said.
"You think I'm like that?" Yue asked. He didn't consider himself nearly as staunch or oppressive as the image he had of the previous Genbu.
"You are," Genbu said. All his words conveyed such conviction that Yue doubted his own thoughts.
"And don't tell me you weren't nervous to see daddy, thinking of him like that. You didn't know the truth, and didn't realize your own character was becoming rather close. Are you starting to get it?" Miku asked. She placed a hand on Yue's shoulder.
"So, relax? I'll think about it. What you've said. Genbu, sir, please, let me ask. Was that all an act for me?" Yue asked.
"No. Miku was wrong when she said I was pretending. Certainly, many times I appear in different ways. But that depends on the circumstances, and the understanding of those around me. Do you have such resoluteness of character that you could be both exceedingly happy and a serious businessman with a straight face?" Genbu asked.
"I'm unsure of the meaning of that," Yue said. He mulled it over for a moment, which the other two noticed. They gave him a moment to respond. "Strength can be both silent and expressive."
"That's a start. I'll teach you more tomorrow. Resoluteness doesn't mean denying emotion. Despair doesn't have to exist in you even in desperate circumstances. Learn to be happy, Yue Fei. Be brave enough to do that. It will serve to help you in the times to come," Genbu said.
"Thank you, Genbu."
"That sounds more like it! You've earned the right to use my name after all. Don't be afraid to speak it, as from now on we are friends," Genbu said. He held out his hand.
Yue laughed as he held out his hand. Together the men shook hands, their eyes each laughing at the irony conveyed. Yue thought about what the father-daughter combo were trying to teach him, and though he couldn't articulate what principle they were conveying, internally something told him that it was something he could look forward to. He knew his viewpoint and way of thinking would change, and it was a change he had wanted, just never consciously known.
The night continued with Yue and Genbu conversing about military strategy, for it turned out that Genbu was very aware of all sorts of war details. From time to time Yue would glance at Miku, realizing that she had communicated several bits of information to her father. But Yue didn't mind that Miku had revealed several items of military secrecy, especially considering Genbu's past. As Genbu was a former admiral and an apt strategist, his musings enlightened Yue Fei.
They ended their night on a good note, with Yue learning several things from seemingly random observations and comments Genbu made. At the end of the night Genbu retired first, assisted by Aki.
"Miku," Yue said when they were alone.
"Yes, Fei-chan?"
"Thank you. I'm glad I came."
"I know, Yue. I know. Now, you owe this Miku Tenraijin something."
"And whatever could that be, almighty Tenraijin-sama?" Yue asked with mock obedience.
"I'll decide that later. Goodnight, Fei."
"Goodnight, Miku."

Chapter 3

"Welcome back, sir."
"It's good to be back. Terv, was it?" Relos asked.
"Yes, sir. Terv Rend. Assigned to Nirvash for now. Hopefully permanently, sir," Terv said.
"Not so long. Until we get you a ship of your own. Until then, you've got the best place in the universe," Relos said. Terv saluted and smiled. Relos nodded, and then entered the ship. He made his way through it until he reached the bridge. He stopped just before the door. He took a deep breath, and then made sure his uniform was straight.
"That's the last one. Prepare for departure," Alquin said while Relos entered the room. Relos took a few steps, arriving at Alquin's side.
"Sir. Relos Va Raign reporting for duty," Relos said."
"Excellent to have you back. No better time, as well," Alquin said. "Navi, take off when ready."
The brief lurch of the ship made Relos take a step back. Relos laughed quietly at himself, thinking it was strange that he should forget something as simple as bracing himself for launch. The Nirvash was soon in space, as was the fleet Alquin commanded.
"We're on standby for a while. We were only to launch at the moment," Alquin said while he stood. "Terv, I'll be in briefing with Relos."
"Sir."
Alquin and Relos left the bridge and entered a meeting room. Inside, Alquin pulled up a holographic display of a planet while Relos took a seat.
"Do you know what this is?" Alquin asked.
"I think. No, no I don't recall which planet," Relos said. He studied the planet a bit, finding it very familiar.
"Exoquis," Alquin said. He had both hands on the table, and was staring intently at the hologram.
"Exoquis? Alquin, that's Exoquis?"
"Never seen it before? A shame, Relos."
"I don't think many study the look of planets they don't live on. You'll have to excuse me."
"No matter. But I've never forgotten this planet. There is Aion. Here are the islands of the Genus sea. Right about here is where the capitol, Tenor, lies. I can point practically anywhere and tell you which province is there."
"Was there."
"Will be there, Relos. Will be."
"Is that what this is about?"
"Ingrid's permission to retake Exoquis has been granted to me. Ridiculous, isn't it?"
"With our fleet? It is ridiculous!"
"That's right. It is. How could we possibly stand a chance at removing the General Common Coalition from their entrenchment in our planet? What was our planet. My planet."
"Alquin, I know your feelings on this. You've talked about it so much that I practically feel I've visited there. What's really going on?"
"Pardon my passion for a moment." Alquin stood straight and breathed out slowly. He took a breath, and then sat down. "The higher-ups have been deliberating over it for a while, and now they've finally decided on trying to reclaim Exoquis. But with the coalition in control of such a critical planet, things have been looking bleak. The force the coalition has there is the largest of the border forces. It might be easier to conquer a fresh coalition planet than to take Exoquis back. With the relay there, its priority is high, but not enough to warrant a full-scale assault. So they ordered me to reclaim it."
"Just that? You were ordered to?"
"Someone up there must have realized their hate for me. It was bound to happen. Win or lose, it doesn't matter to them. Win, we all benefit. Lose, and they eliminate me permanently. Of course, I couldn't refuse the offer to retake Exoquis."
"Blast it, Alquin. We can't take that on yet."
"That's right, and everyone knows it," Alquin said happily. He had a broad smile. Relos shook his head and sighed.
"I pray God gives them well-deserved heart attacks when we come off victorious," Relos said. He laughed lightly.
"That's why I needed you to come. Always reasonable, Relos. So, plans?"
"Win. We will take back your home planet. That's all there is to it. And after that, they will realize it's much harder to get rid of this thorn than they expected."
"So you've already formed a strategy?"
"A bit. You're final touches should make it work. But you owe me, now," Relos said. He made the hologram zoom out and display the general military setup around the planet. He watched it as he continued speaking with Alquin.
"Of course I'll owe you. I already thought of that."
"Oh really? Then what can I expect?"
"She likes stars and card games. A brunette."
Relos smiled and continued watching the hologram. But his thoughts were traversing other worlds.
 
Admiral Gim Alcard adjusted the glasses on his weary face. He turned a page in the book. He made a small humming sound, and had soon turned another page. After a few more minutes, he smiled and put the book down.
He removed his reading glasses and placed them on the table beside him. He stretched his legs and placed them on the footstool. He reclined in the leather chair and closed his eyes. The quarters were large, suitable for an admiral in space, so he had no intention to get up and walk over to the nearby bed. A few pictures adorned the room, but nothing was going to distract the admiral from his sleep. His head was soon bobbing, and was just about to go limp as sleep descended.
"Admiral! Emergency! Admiral!" The intercom screamed at Gim without remorse. His eyes opened wide, startled. In a couple seconds, he realized what was happening. Accustomed to years of being rudely interrupted, he regained his composure shortly.
"Speak it!"
"Sir, it's the Ingrid Empire! There are a number of Ingrid ships approaching!"
"How many?"
"About two hundred."
"That's it? I'll be there soon. Put out an orange alert."
"Orange? Not red? This is the empire, sir."
"Two hundred ships? That's barely enough to cover the tail of an ambassador. They'd be fools to attack, yellow, orange, red, or whatever. Get to it!"
"Yes sir!"
The intercom went silent. Gim stood, worked a knot in his back for a moment, and then dressed in his usual coalition uniform of blue and gray. He adjusted his hat, and then walked out of the room. He did glance back at the soft leather chair once.
"Status?" Gim asked as soon as he entered the command room.
"They've taken position just at range, line formation."
"Weapons?"
"Locked on them several times over. One command and they wouldn't be leaving in less than a hundred pieces."
"Communications," Gim said.
"Yes sir, they are open. They've just requested that we speak with them."
"Put it onscreen," Gim said. A young man appeared on the screen. He was handsome and smiling.
"Greetings," Alquin said.
"Just a kid?" Gim asked.
"I'm the commander of this fleet, sir," Alquin said.
"Then state your business," Gim said. He sighed slightly, and then relaxed in his chair.
"My name is Alquin Tor Rinard. And I've come to remove you, your fleet, and the coalition presence from Exoquis," Alquin said. He was polite and continued to smile.
"Oh?" Gim asked. He laughed slightly, and then smiled as well. "Well, Alquin, yes. You're welcome to try, anytime. Unfortunately, you won't succeed."
"Yes, I'm well aware of that. I'm here on a suicide mission. I cannot win," Alquin said. His smile didn't falter in the least.
Gim chuckled slightly and internally praised his foe. He looked at the other people on the screen behind or near Alquin. None of them seemed distraught by Alquin's words. Gim wasn't a fool, and decided not to accept anything Alquin said at face value.
"Surely you have a plan," Gim said. "I think it must be a great one, if you're challenging my control of Exoquis. Something to deal with the thousands of ships here in orbit?"
"Nothing that will work. Believe it; I've tried several suggestions and strategies. As much as I've thought, I still have nothing I can guarantee will work. And that isn't good enough for my superiors, as they will not wait any longer. So, I wanted to offer you my formalities," Alquin said.
"Do you actually think this little play will get you my sympathy? Do you think I'll be sympathetic if you're friendly?" Gim asked. There was a hint of annoyance in his tone, but not much because he was still trying to figure out Alquin's objective.
"No, no," Alquin said. "In fact, I prefer death in this case. It is a suicide mission. So that's the goal. Sir, my effort will, at least, be very valiant. Even if it ends in failure, you may lose quite a few ships to me. Just enough to soften your fleet, after which the main fleet can come."
"I don't believe that. You're coming just to die? Ridiculous."
"Of course you don't! You're already famous! Don't think the Ingrid Empire takes its foes lightly. Just with appropriate caution and strategy. As for me, I've only shown a little bit of strategy here and there, only just enough that my superiors think I'll prove a worthwhile loss. Their caution, my strategy. But I don't mind. After all, my entire family will be given noble status and riches. My sons will grow up knowing that their father was a valiant man who died in service to his country, in a single battle that secured the future of the war. Thirty or eighty years of life are equal when one's achievements are great, in the empire. I'll achieve far more in death than life, where right now I am little more than a tiny grape. I wish to be wine."
"Hmm. Well, I've never really understood your ways over there. But, fine. Then to a good fight, I will salute you," Gim said. He stood tall and gave a respectful salute to Alquin. He found Alquin's reasoning strange, but understood the greater depths of it. As an admiral with several accomplishments under him, what more could he do in life? Thus, he reasoned, if the empire would give those several years’ worth of accomplishments to Alquin, why should it matter if he died early? As long as the result was the same, the process didn't matter as much, Gim realized.
"Sir! Thank you! I'm glad you understand," Alquin said while smiling widely.
"Not entirely," Gim said. "But I can see the draw of fame, even at such a cost."
"Admiral Gen, your reputation certainly doesn't do you justice. Relos!"
"Yes sir?" Relos asked.
"We will proceed on schedule, no change. For your information, Gim, sir, our assault will begin in three hours. I suggest you prepare your defenses," Alquin said.
"As I said before, we are ready anytime, warning or not," Gim said.
"Excellent," Alquin said. He turned and said something quietly to Relos. After a moment, he turned to face the screen again. "Sir, since we have a few hours, can I ask a favor of you?"
"What is it?" Gim asked. He smiled slightly, wondering what new thing Alquin would say.
"As you know, I'm young. But I'm very interested in tales of old. Call it a fetish, of sorts. Stories and tales of heroes and their foes, entertaining stuff. Actually, many Chinese epics, classics from Earth even. Anyways, there has always been a fascinating amount of ritual and chivalry that these warriors had. Even though they would go on to fight and kill each other, many times both the hero and the foe would have a last drink together. Maybe it is a cultural relic of times better forgotten, but I hope you can forgive my presumptuousness and then have a drink with me. It would honor me."
"No," Gim said. He had replied casually, as though without thought.
"I… you'd not? Oh, right, of course not. I'm just an empire brat. Or you may say empire dog. You have absolutely no reason to listen to me. My apologies."
"I don't drink," Gim said with a smile breaking the corners of his lips. "Old age. It doesn't agree with many things of my youth. Or so my doctor says."
"Ah! You're already winning, and not a shot has been fired," Alquin said.
"I wouldn't say that. But, for a martyr, maybe I could disobey his instructions. In fact, I think I shall. Yes, a drink is just fine," Gim said, reasoning as much for himself as he was for Alquin. "What's your drink?"
"An old wine I've had for a while," Alquin said with enthusiasm. "Well, it's decided then! I shall see you again soon." Alquin smiled, bowed slightly, and then ended the transmission.
"Odd. Strange fellow. Fine, we shall drink and dance. Operations, listen! Keep on full alert, and don't relax for a moment. Raise to red, and have everyone man battle stations. Prepare for any attacks, and be ready to intercept any and all hostilities." Gim said.
"You aren't going to trust him, sir?" an operations person asked.
"Of course not. That empire brat may have some strange ideals, but that doesn't mean he won't try anything. We should be prepared."
"Sir, one of the ships in the enemy fleet has started moving. No, wait, the fleet is moving away, and the one ship is coming closer," operations said.
"Oh? So he's coming in person? That makes things interesting," Gim said.
"The rest of his fleet is out of their firing range. Now they are out of our best range as well. They've stopped. The single ship is coming closer," operations said.
"That's fine. Keep a lookout, just in case. Once the ship has docked, inform me. I'll be in my quarters," Gim said.
"Sir, are you really going to let them come?"
"It's one ship. Even if it were filled with men, we have the advantage," Gim said.
"Yes sir."
Gim took his leave from the bridge and went back to his room. He took a look at his attire. It was fine, he decided. He made sure everything was on straight and proper. Even if the only enemy who'd see him in person would soon be dead, he wanted to make an imposing impression. He would be doing Alquin a disservice if he didn't make the correct impression, to seem like the kind of person it would be respectable to be killed by. A twinge of regret arose in his heart, but it was quickly squashed. An admiral of his experience had long ago discarded his feelings for the enemy.
Satisfied with how he looked, he took a seat and waited. It would only be a matter of minutes for Alquin's ship to arrive, but he wasn't going to meet Alquin personally. It wouldn't give the appropriate impression, he thought. He closed his eyes for a while, waiting in silence.
The floor, the walls, and the ceiling all seemed to be the same thing for a moment. Gim gripped the arms of his chair, trying to keep from flying out of his seat. The lights in the room flickered. The moment the shaking stopped, Gim went to the intercom.
"Report! What was that?" Gim asked.
"Sir! It was a trap! The enemy ship self-destructed!"
"I'll be there momentarily! Open fire on the enemy fleet immediately!" Gim said. Gim immediately left the room after that and made his way to the bridge, which was a mess of noise.
"Sir," operations said, "the enemy ship must have been a dummy, completely filled with explosives. They've taken out a dozen ships in the vicinity immediately. Another dozen were hit by the shockwave. They may either be functioning or not. They are at drift."
"I'll hear a full report on damages later. For now, I'll take care of the enemy. On screen, show how they are attacking," Gim said.
"Sir, they aren't. They've already left. Just before the explosive ship reached us, they turned and left. They haven't returned. Shall we pursue?"
"No. We're here to defend. It might be part of their plan to have us come after them, making the force weaker. We will stay put and wait," Gim said.
The reports kept coming in, inundating Gim. He silently cursed Alquin each time a report arrived. He'd then shake his head and turn his words on himself. He tried rationalizing that anyone would fall into Alquin's trap, but he wasn't able to successfully forgive himself. Alquin had dealt a blow to his pride. And Gim wasn't one to let such insults go by without retaliation.
The day ended, however Gim stayed awake for an extra hour in the control room. Eventually he took his leave. He was able to sleep, even amidst the trouble.
"Anything happen?" Gim asked. It was early the next morning, and Gim had just entered the control room.
"No sir," operations replied.
Gim took a seat. He gave directions and took reports while anxiously awaiting any news of Alquin's fleet. He sent out a couple scout ships to look for Alquin, to no avail. He considered having the scouts venture into empire territory, but decided against it. He didn't want to lose more ships in a stupid venture.
Gim retired that night at the normal time, although he had trepidation. The next day, the same thing. It went by without event. He questioned why Alquin only attacked once. It was a great attack, he decided. To purposely lose one ship in order to take on a larger enemy was something he had to admit was good. But he couldn't forgive Alquin for taking advantage of him. For pretending to be a nice and naive person, Alquin had earned himself a great deal of hatred.
The third day after Alquin's attack, Gim took reports as usual. Several ships had been lost in the initial explosion. However, more than double that had been lost due to damage from the shockwave and debris. A few ships that had been in the area were hit by some of the disabled ships, destroying them. Gim saw the total number of ships lost and grimaced. It was a loss he couldn't accept. But Alquin was nowhere to be seen; therefore Gim's revenge would have to wait.
"Sir!" operations said.
"What is it?" Gim asked.
"It's… it's a single ship! It's already in range! It's traveling too fast, the fleet just detected it. It's in the second division's area on the other side of the planet!"
"Destroy it!"
"They… they were hit. Sir, it was another explosive ship."
"Already? How fast was it going?"
"A quarter light."
"Any other enemy movement?" Gim asked. He hoped the answer would be yes.
"No sir. Only the one ship. Again, it appears it was loaded with only explosives. The casualties aren't small."
"Alquin," Gim murmured. His previously rising interest was being replaced by dread. Alquin had attacked twice without warning, each time inflicting great amounts of damage to a defense that was supposed to be impenetrable.
Gim spent his time taking reports and coordinating efforts for that day and the next, though there was a dread that had appeared in the back of his mind. He started to wonder when, how, and whether Alquin would attack again. He lost much sleep over it.
Gim awoke in the middle of a certain night. It was the sixth day after Alquin's first attack. It was too early for him to be awake. In his fog, he tried turning off the alarm that seemed to be going off. But it wasn't an alarm; it was a frantic voice on the intercom.
"Admiral! Sir! It happened again. Are you awake, sir? The third division was attacked. The same tactic."
"How? We've been ready for that attack for a day now, how did the third falter?" Gim asked. The grogginess started to leave him.
"The crews were tired, sir. They were taken off guard, and didn't have the time to react."
"Incompetence!" Gim said, and then turned off the intercom. He tossed and turned as he tried to sleep.
"We shot it down," operations said. It was the ninth day after Alquin's original attack. The fourth division had been attacked this time with the same tactic as before. That meant that the four major fleets, one covering each quarter of the planet, had all been attacked.
"That was it," Gim said. "He's attacked all four corners. The real attack will be coming soon."
A day passed with no additional information. Gim ordered that all shifts be completely staffed and at battle stations at all times. Not a moment of relaxation was to be given. Gim restricted himself to four hours of sleep a night, ensuring he'd be awake and in command whenever Alquin would next appear.
They intercepted and destroyed yet another explosive ship on the twelfth day after Alquin's original attack. It has been heading for the second division again. By this point, rumors were spreading around the fleet. The officers were all tense with constant stress, not knowing when Alquin would attack. And it was becoming evident that the attacks were as much psychological as they were physical. For almost two weeks, everyone had been on edge, wondering if they would become the next victims.
Gim thought that the attacks would consistently be every three days, as they had been. But on the next day the fourth division was attacked again. The doom ship, as it was being called, was destroyed just in time. But it proved to Gim that Alquin could attack at anytime, from anywhere.
Then there was a full week of silence. Every person in Gim's fleet was stressed to an unbearable degree, but no attacks came. Gim gritted his teeth in annoyance. He knew what this untold message from Alquin meant. Gim wouldn't be able to relax his guard. He was under siege.
"A message has arrived, sir," communications said.
"From?" Gim asked.
"It's from the empire, sir. Pre-recorded and delivered long-distance. It looks like they've sent it via beacon. Even if we knew where it was sent from, the fleet wouldn't be there."
"Blast. Well, play it onscreen," Gim said. The officer complied, and soon there was a picture of Alquin on screen.
"Greetings, Admiral Gim. Allow me to reintroduce myself. I am Alquin Tor Rinard. I'm a lowly general who was given the impossible task of retaking Exoquis. Well, nearly impossible. I've actually succeeded at it, as you will soon know. I suggest you disarm yourself and surrender peacefully. If you don't, you'll lose so much of your fleet that you wouldn't be much resistance at all. My fleet is small, but much larger than the number of ships I originally showed up with. That was to give you a demonstration of how small your fleet will be if you struggle. So, surrender, please."
The message ended. Gim resisted the urge to be furious. His fleet had taken damage, true, but it was miniscule compared to the size of the entire fleet. He considered laughing.
"Sir, there is a second message coming in," communications said.
"Play it as well," Gim said. Alquin was on screen again.
"Since I know you won't surrender just like that, I'll give you a demonstration. I hope I won't have to repeat this. Please turn your attention to your second division."
"On it already, sir," operations said. "Nothing out of the usual."
"What's he playing at?" Gim asked. Alquin's recording kept silent, smiling.
"Emergency," operations said. "There was an explosion. Wait, no, much, much worse. The second division has been crippled!"
"What?" Gim asked.
"A reactionary weapon!"
"No," Gim said, silently. A minute later, Alquin's image resumed talking.
"That division should be taken care of, by now. I'm sure you're wondering what just happened. Let me enlighten you. Those ships I sent you, their goal wasn't to be destructive. Their goal was to silently deploy nuclear devices in the chaos of the explosion. Those ships, as large as they were, went unmanned, and were controlled remotely. The devices they delivered were carefully packaged so as not to be destroyed in the explosion. Once in space, they would appear as debris. Normally, they might be detected, but not when you're on full alert, waiting for my real attack. Now, there are more out there. I can either destroy you completely, or you can surrender. I'll be there soon. If you don't, you'll be gone before we're in range of your weapons. Have a good day, admiral."
The screen went blank. It was over. It was all over, Gim realized.
 
"Well, aren't you going to greet your audience?" Relos asked.
"A moment to think, Relos," Alquin said.
"Agreed. It is slightly emotional, to say the least. I still think they'd appreciate it, whether you're composed or not," Relos said. Alquin nodded, and then stood up. He exited the room and walked the halls until he was outside.
Alquin stood on marble, surrounded by pillars and military personnel. He took his stand at a podium filled with microphones. He looked out over the tens of thousands of people that had gathered, their noise almost overwhelming. His image appeared as a hologram overhead. For a brief moment, the crowd went silent.
The cheers that ensued lasted for a while. Alquin took it all in, unwavering on the stand. He closed his eyes and felt the screams and words flow through him. In this moment, he remembered his youth, the last time he had stood on the ground of this planet. All the years that had passed seemed but a moment in time. He no longer saw the sky with the eyes of a small boy. Almost twenty years had passed in anticipation of this moment. Alquin opened his eyes and held up his hands. The crowds went silent.
"When I was a child, I lived on Exoquis. I lived through the first part of the coalition attack back then. My friends, you are my brothers. My fathers. My mothers. My sisters and my children. I remember the day like it was yesterday, even though I was a small boy. And, knowing that, I cannot help but be moved by those who were older than me. Knowing that you've seen it all, heard it all, lived through it, and had to weep and gnash your teeth in pain while enduring the occupation of your native lands. I weep with you. And I rejoice with you this day. This day of freedom and life. Where the coalition forces have been driven off. But, my friends, we cannot linger in our duties. We must carry on. We mustn't think for a moment that we are alone, either in terms of allies or enemies. Ingrid will support you, my friends. The coalition will oppress you, brethren. And they will not let you be in peace. You are a precious resource. You hold only precious resources. Many that the enemy has held onto for years, and isn't eager to let go of. But take heart. Your and my day of freedom has arrived. Rejoice, and know that you are again citizens of the Ingrid Empire. No, you always have been. But now you can tell your sons and daughters. You can talk in the streets about your heritage. You can relax, knowing you are free from control, again. Ingrid will make sure of that. Thank you for your patience. I am sorry. I deeply apologize that it has taken this long. Thank you."
Alquin's speech ended. Though it was impromptu, the crowd roared with applause and cheers. The entire planet was awake and filled with shouts of joy and revelry. No matter where they were, there wasn't a person sleeping. Parents forced their children to stay awake and see what their savior said. There was no protest. The coalition hadn't been in power long enough for anyone to forget what had happened. And on this day, which would later be a planetary holiday, people laughed, cried, and rejoiced.
"How was it?" Alquin asked Relos once they were in private.
"A bit soppy," Relos said with a wide smile.
"Perfect. A bit over-the-top even?" Alquin asked.
"Yes."
"Good, good. Then it was just perfect."
"Why?"
"Because if it seemed soppy to an outsider, it was just right for a citizen."
Relos laughed, realizing what Alquin meant. Relos and the other officers had been slightly embarrassed through Alquin's speech, but he now realized that none of the planet's residents would have the same detachment as him. Alquin, on the other hand, had been worried he would be detached as well.
The days on Exoquis passed by with astounding speed. In just a week's time, all major installations had been secured by empire personnel. The few groups of coalition resistance were eliminated with haste. Supporters of the old regime were always coalition staff, and were soon rooted out and arrested. All coalition staff were imprisoned and held indefinitely as hostages. Alquin also made a point of keeping the accommodations for his hostages comfortable, quelling any instances of abuse quickly and with severity. He made the announcement that revenge was not to be taken by the populace, as revenge belonged to the empire's military only. The penalties for disobedience were stiff, so abuse was rare. Considering the situation, it was fortunate for the coalition forces. This sort of kindness in peace coupled with absolute brutality in combat made Alquin an imposing figure in both the minds of the citizens and the hostages.
Alquin hadn't been expecting the request that came from the populace. With the replacement of the coalition government, the planet lacked a ruler. Unlike the coalition, empire cities and planets were ruled by individuals, who all eventually answered to the emperor himself. The empire was still making preparations to send additional defenses to Exoquis, and hadn't yet decided on whom to install as the planetary ruler.
"I'm turning it down," Alquin said.
"Why? Why not?" Relos asked. The other generals in the room echoed Relos' sentiments.
"There's much more to do. As much as I appreciate it, I'm a military man. I shouldn't be confined to this place. I'll humbly reject," Alquin said.
There was another motive in Alquin's rejection, which made itself apparent soon after. Alquin could only smile as he showed the communication he had received from empire headquarters. The emperor himself had heard of Alquin's decline, and was pleased by it. As a result, Alquin was promoted again. Alquin's promotion was several ranks. The size of the fleet granted to him was ten-thousand, several times as large as his prior one, and one of the largest in the empire. It was a sign of faith from the emperor. And it was just what Alquin wanted, even it if was beyond his initial expectations. There was another matter that would appear before Alquin could leave the planet, though.

Chapter 4

The new, black, and pristine car made its way down a dusty road. On the sides of the road were several people in shallow water tending rice fields. A tinted window rolled down, only to roll up a moment later.
The car arrived at its destination, a small Japanese-looking village. A door opened and out stepped an old man in decorated attire. He had a wooden cane and wore thick glasses.
"Is this where the comet is?" the old man asked.
"Yes," said a man who had just exited the car from the other side. He was younger and had a solid face.
"What a backwards place. Come on, let's find him," the old man said.
The young man nodded, and then took his place at the old man's side. They ventured through the village until they arrived at a certain house. The house of Tenraijin.
"What do you need?" Aki asked once the door had opened.
"We're here to see Mr. Yue. Is he in?" the old man asked.
"Fei-chan is around. May I know the gentlemen's names?" Aki asked.
"Admiral Heff," the old man said.
"And Gene Tracer," the younger said.
"Please take a seat in the waiting room," Aki said.
Aki let the two men inside and led them to the room that Yue and Miku had once waited in. There were only the table and a few cushions. The two men looked around the room with a look of slight bewilderment.
"Sit, please, while I get some tea," Aki said.
"Where?" Gene asked.
"At the table," Aki said.
"But where do we sit?" Gene asked.
"Just sit," Admiral Heff said. He pointed his cane at a cushion on the ground. Gene looked but eventually complied. As Gene sat, Heff turned to look at Aki. "May I have a chair for these old bones?"
"Please wait a moment," Aki said. A moment it was, and she placed the chair at the table for Heff to sit on.
"Thank you," Heff said as he sat. Aki gave a bow, and then left the room.
"That wasn't fair," Gene said.
"Quiet and wait for our guests."
In another room, Yue Fei stood upon hearing Aki's notice, breaking his meditative position.
"Admiral Heff is here? I have to see him," Yue said.
"Fei," Genbu said. Genbu was on the ground, still in the meditative position that Yue had been copying only a moment ago. "Sit."
"But the admiral!"
"Sit. Or you have learned nothing," Genbu said. His words were commands, absolute. Yue hesitated for a moment, and then sat down. Aki didn't say a word. She left the room and returned to where Heff and Gene were.
"They will be with you in twenty minutes," Aki said.
"Tell them it is of utmost urgency," Heff said.
"They will be here in twenty minutes. I will get some tea," Aki said, and then left the room.
"What? That's not acceptable," Gene said.
"So be it. She's already gone," Heff said.
Aki arrived more than five minutes later with tea for the guests. She left them for another ten minutes, arriving again with materials to make fresh tea. She sat quietly at the table with the two men for another few minutes, and then started to make tea. She finished just as the door to the room opened.
In walked Yue Fei and Genbu. Both were dressed in loose kimonos. Yue was in blue, Genbu in green. Behind them was Miku in a yellow kimono. Genbu and Yue took their seats as Aki stood and left. She and Miku left the room after giving respectful bows.
"Is this the Comet of Helt?" Gene asked.
"Some have used that name," Yue said.
"Gene," Heff said.
"Fine, fine," Gene said. He crossed his arms and gave a small huff.
"Admiral Heff, sir, please forgive me for being unavailable until now," Yue said, and then gave a slight bow with his head.
"In many more ways than today. How long have you been here? Too long for us," Heff said.
"About a week, sir," Yue said. "What about that was too long? I thought my leave was approved."
"It was. But here you are in a place without outside communication. That's the problem. From here on it's military matters. Confidential," Heff said while looking at Genbu. Genbu sipped his tea, his eyes closed and face stoic. The admiral gave a small cough.
"Anything you say to me is information that my friend can hear," Yue said.
"No, this is secret. No outside ears," Gene said. Genbu opened an eye.
"You're in my house," Genbu said, and then went quiet.
"And who are you?" Gene asked. Contrary to his own expectations, Heff didn't reprimand him.
"Genbu Tenraijin. Better known as Heaven's Wrath Incarnate. Retired, of course," Yue said.
"The legendary general?" Admiral Heff asked.
"Please speak, as you know your words are fine here," Yue said.
"Yes, yes certainly," Heff said. He looked at Genbu, who still wouldn't return his gaze. "Here's the issue, Yue. Admiral Gim appears to be in a bind. A few weeks ago we received a report from him that he was under assault by a small empire force. It was just a report, saying all was under control. But a few days later, there was an additional report. And then another after that. Each one said it was under control. We haven't heard from him since. We cannot contact him either. The relay is still open, but no ships sent to Exoquis have returned. We fear that the enemy has taken hold of Exoquis, and hasn't closed the relay to us as part of a trap."
"Conventional speeds?" Yue asked.
"It's far. It's two months from the nearest coalition relay. Three weeks from the nearest empire relay, though now it doesn't matter for them," Gene said.
"So how large a force are we dealing with?" Yue asked.
"We don't know now. Gim's first report said two hundred ships, but apparently that was a diversion. Either way, it's small," Heff said.
"So you've been willing to send ships through, in hope that they'd send a message back," Yue said.
"Pretty much," Heff said.
"So we've lost the planet. A shame," Yue said.
"More than just a shame!" Heff said. "We need Exoquis. That is the closest relay to empire territory. If we lose it, then the war suffers a major setback. They will be able to coordinate better. This is why we spent so much effort getting Exoquis in the first place. In fact, Tenraijin should know about those times. It was a trying time, and we needed every advantage. Exoquis has been a boon for the effort."
Genbu nodded his head, but he said no words.
"Yes, but then, why are you here?" Yue asked.
"Your reputation as the Comet of Helt has been held in high esteem by several generals for a while. We would like you to take our forces into Exoquis. We want you to try your hand at regaining it from whatever empire general has stolen it," Heff said.
"Me? I'm not sure I'm the right person for this," Yue said.
"And you think there is anyone better? Look over this report from Gim. The last one we got before we lost communications," Heff said.
Gene pulled out the report and handed it to Yue. He took a few moments looking over the first few pages. He turned them slowly, analyzing them with thoughtful eyes. He put them down, and placed a hand on them. He then moved them in front of Genbu. Genbu also picked them up and looked at them. After he was done, he handed them over to Gene.
"This is odd," Yue said.
"We thought so as well," Heff said.
"Do you have any information on this Alquin person?" Yue asked.
"None whatsoever. If he's been in prior battles, he has done so without announcing himself. Or by joining into another fight. You well know how often that happens," Heff said.
"Yes. This is becoming interesting. I can see the use of the tactic, being a mostly psychological one. But its possibility of failure was probably very high. And Gim's attitude made it easy to take advantage of him," Yue said.
"Gim specifically? I would have thought more generals would fall into this trap," Heff said.
"Gim is a nice person. A good general, but a nice person at heart. So yes, many would fall into this. I might as well. But probably wouldn't. Always assume the enemy is putting on an act, and never assume you know what his motives are. Gim had the first part down, but he didn't think about the second. He not only didn't assume what Alquin's motives were, but thought he didn't need to. It was overconfidence, stemming from years of defense of an impenetrable fleet. Its security was its downfall," Yue said. Genbu nodded slightly.
"Alright, but still too wordy and not clear enough," Genbu said.
"Fine, we assumed that much. So, what do you think, can you do it?" Heff asked.
"I'm still training here," Yue said.
"You aren't," Genbu said.
"But sir!"
"You're far enough. Just keep practicing and remembering what you need to work on. And I should say, Yue, I'm happy right now," Genbu said. His face was as solid and stoic as Yue had ever seen. Yue smiled slightly.
"Understood," Yue said. "In that case, I'll be on my way now, if that's fine with you, Admiral."
"Certainly. We've prepared everything already. You'll be off this planet before the day is over," Heff said.
"Thank you. I'll be out as soon as I say some goodbyes," Yue said. The door to the room was flung open. There, standing in the doorway was Miku.
"You're taking me with you!"
"Miku. You were listening?" Yue asked.
"You were going to leave without me. Weren't you?" Miku asked. Yue looked away without answering. "So you were!"
"Who's this?" Heff asked.
"My daughter. She will be accompanying you," Genbu said. "Please treat her with kindness."
"Daddy!" Miku said. She ran into the room and hugged him.
"I suppose there is no use arguing now," Yue said. He sighed slightly.
"And Fei, you know what this means," Genbu said.
"You're expectations are high," Yue said. He smiled, mostly out of nervousness. The weight of the new expectations on him felt weighty, but not overly so. There was a new feeling of responsibility. Genbu smiled.
"You'll do fine. She is safe with you. And if she weren't, that would only mean you wouldn't be around to be punished either," Genbu said.
"You make it thrilling to be alive, sir. I'll do my best," Yue said.
"Your best is better than anyone could hope for," Genbu said.
The formalities ended, and soon Yue Fei and Tenraijin Miku were on their way to the spaceport, where a new adventure awaited them. Yue asked Miku why she wanted to come along. Her response was: "To keep you in line and alive, of course! You're going in without a plan, after all."
 
Relos stood on the bridge of the Nirvash, cup of coffee in hand. It was late at night, technically. Relos never did understand how time was supposed to pass in space. He occupied his mind with thoughts of a lovely girl he had met on the planet. Then they turned to the mild blond who worked in engineering. He looked around the bridge and sighed. He was surrounded by men, much to his dismay. He smiled slightly, and then took another sip of coffee. The black liquid purged his thoughts and let him regain the standard expression he kept when in the presence of men.
Relos sat in the commanding chair, watching empty space. He turned his eyes to the giant structure in a part of the screen, the relay. He took a look at a hologram that detailed exactly how the forces he was commanding in Alquin's stead were set up. They were placed in key positions around the relay's perimeter. The moment an enemy dropped out of faster-than-light speeds, the forces would disable or destroy them. It had happened a few times, as the coalition had sent three recon ships. Two were destroyed, and the third had been disabled. The relay network allowed ships to travel at extreme speeds, but the downfall of them was that all travelers were limited to where relay points had been placed. It was only possible to travel from one relay to another or across relays instantly, but stopping always had to take place in the vicinity of one. The control of these relays, these marvels of engineering that allowed man to travel vast distances of space instantly, was key to the progress of the war.
Relos realized this, and smiled more. Alquin had secured the Exoquis relay, which would allow the empire to deploy further into coalition territory. He had also secured a large number of coalition ships, which were now part of the force that Relos was watching over. Certainly, whatever reward Alquin received would be more than justified. And this particular relay would be under Alquin's control indefinitely, whether or not the empire or coalition knew it.
"Relos, sir, a ship just dropped to conventional speeds. Coalition, a single cruiser. Shall we destroy or capture?" an operations person asked.
"Destroy immediately," Relos commanded. Soon a group of blasters had turned the solitary ship into dust. The momentary flash of orange and red had filled the screen.
"Sir, something is off. According to the readings, there were only basic systems. No communications were even attempted. Low mass. And the ship was stationary upon exiting relay space. I wonder. Was it even manned?" operations asked.
"An unmanned ship? A decoy, possibly," Relos said.
"It shouldn't matter, right sir?"
"Step up battle alert," Relos said.
Just as Relos spoke, the screen in front of him shifted. Relos blinked, opening his eyes to see several ships appearing. More than several, almost an entire fleet had materialized, all at once.
"A fleet? Blast. But no matter, we have the advantage. Open fire!" Relos said.
"Aye sir," operations said, and then relayed the message to the entire fleet.
The coalition fleet had immediately started attacking once they were at conventional speeds. Blasters and missiles filled the screen as chaos ensued. Several of the empire ships had attacked before being given the command, as the threat was obvious the moment the coalition ships appeared.
There was something odd about the ships, though. Relos looked at the screen closer, only to be shocked by what he was seeing. The coalition ships weren't being destroyed as quickly as Relos expected. In fact, most were completely unharmed. And each of them had a long line at the back of them. Each line was attached to a large rock, some as large as a small asteroid. Many were the size and mass of the coalition ships themselves, and had become the targets of the empire ships.
Relos ground his teeth for a moment, realizing that the rocks were causing the empire ships to automatically target them. He gave a command to the fleet, telling them to readjust their targeting.
The coalition ships had formed an expanding circle, and each one was traveling at great speeds, much higher than they could do battle with. As the circle expanded, it became apparent that the ships were on a collision course for the surrounding empire forces.
It was too late to have the fleet change positions. The empire forces, commanding mostly coalition ships, didn't have the time or maneuverability to get out of the way. The incoming ships were able to adjust their course to match however the empire moved. Several coalition ships were shot down before they could reach the empire ships, but the inertia that kept them moving was sure to damage the empire forces.
The coalition ships detached the cables holding the rocks and changed directions before colliding. The rocks kept on their course, several of them catching empire forces that hadn't been able to get out of the way.
Relos watched the ships on his hologram disappear as the strange tactic did its work. The Nirvash was maneuverable enough to avoid anything thrown at it, but nothing ever came from the front. The attacks that would make him shudder would come from the rear as the coalition ships that had broken out of the trap would soon turn.
Relos gave the command to turn the fleet. He felt a twinge of pain as several more ships were lost in the maneuvering, but didn't pain himself over the loss of mostly captured coalition ships. For a moment, he regretted taking command of the Nirvash, fearful that the ship may be damaged. He didn't want Alquin to worry about the status of his personal ship.
 
Alquin woke to the sound of an alarm. It wasn't an alarm Alquin had set prior. It was the sound of an emergency alarm. The alarm's scream forced him to wake in mere moment. He was in a slight haze as he tried figuring out what was going on. He looked around and noticed that the room was dark. And then he realized that there was a voice in addition to the alarm.
"Commander Rinard! Sir! Sir, please answer! Are you there?"
"I'm here, turn off this noise!" The alarm stopped. Alquin stood and turned on a light. He noticed a clock. It was after midnight, locally. He wasn't sure what time he was adjusted to. All he knew was that he had been woken when he didn't have enough sleep. Which was bad for his temperament, but he controlled it anyways.
"Sir, emergency report."
"Hurry up with it." Alquin rolled his eyes, and then shook his head.
"Sir, a coalition fleet arrived via the relay about forty-five minutes ago. They were able to engage our forces. We've been sustaining losses, sir."
"Losses? How's Relos?"
"He's sent a request for aid. Thus the alarm, sir. We had no choice but to wake you. My apologies."
"Well you better have the full fleet ready to depart in no more than ten minutes! I depart the moment I'm ready!"
"Yes sir, already started, sir."
The line was cut, and Alquin sighed. He patted the side of his face firmly a few times. He wouldn't have time to shave, he realized. He donned his black and gold uniform, and then looked up at the ceiling. He saluted.
"I'm coming, hang on. I'll get those fools who think they can break through our strategy."
Alquin was soon at the bridge of an empire ship. He didn't mind the loss of captured coalition ships, though he did realize that they were staffed by empire personnel. He hoped they would be able to escape from any destroyed or damaged ships safely. Those that didn't would have to be honored afterwards.
The thousand ships that Alquin had originally taken to Exoquis launched. Several of the ships' commanders were ones that Alquin had personally recruited, so the coordination of these particular ships was good. Each commander had a miniature fleet under them, all eventually answering to Alquin.
Alquin looked back at Exoquis as the ship left the atmosphere. He hadn't had time to really enjoy his home planet, but that didn't bother him too much. He wanted to go back. But he didn't feel like he would be going back soon. Now that he was in space, he wanted to go to the places he had called home for the more recent years. He wanted to get Charlotte back. He had forgotten about her for a short bit of time on Exoquis. Between the extreme schedules he had been under and the mounting pressures from the plans he was putting into motion, it was no surprise that he had forgotten something that was supposed to mean much to him. Yet, for some reason, he didn't mind. He didn't regret forgetting for a bit. And he wasn't sure what that meant.
The view of the battle was a sobering one. There were damaged ships everywhere, but it was difficult to tell who was winning. At first glance, the ships all looked the same. There were a few ships that were empire in origin, but the dead coalition ships that littered the air made it seem like a massacre.
"Incoming communication. It's the Nirvash."
"Put him on," Alquin said. Relos appeared on screen.
"You made time for the fun?" Relos asked. He had a grin.
"Of course. Take a break from the festivities. We will handle it from here," Alquin said. A brief smile appeared on Relos. It was relief, though he had done it unconsciously.
"I can still fight," Relos said.
"I'm sure. So take a break and come back later," Alquin said.
"You'll be done by then!"
"So go take a break. That's an order, Relos."
"Yes, General. No, thank you, Alquin."
Alquin smiled. He gave a salute, which Relos returned. He nodded his head once, and then Relos' image left. It was replaced by the Nirvash, which started turning from where it was.
A brilliant image, the trail of a blaster, appeared for a moment. Alquin had blinked. Something had happened in that moment, but he wasn't sure what. His mind was racing, but he couldn't articulate his thoughts. Something happened, he kept thinking, but he couldn't say what. The second he spent in his mind seemed to be a minute. A flash of color appeared, staining the screen.
Another bright light of many brilliant colors distorted Alquin's vision of the Nirvash. Red, orange, yellow, and even a hint of blue. He could make out some green, but this rainbow of colors didn't mask enough of the truth. Alquin blinked again. His throat went dry.
Alquin looked at a console, and then started typing at it. He moved quickly, changing aspects of the hologram that appeared. Creating, modifying, and changing. He pressed a final button.
"Orders received and transmitted to the fleet, sir," an operations person said.
The empire fleet fanned out and began attacking in a coordinated manner. The empire ships stopped defending themselves from individual coalition ships, and started attacking coalition ships that were attacking allies. The empire ships were soon dominating, as they had started out with more ships to begin with. Their increased coordination and assistance of allies only furthered their advantage.
Neither side was able to gain a truly overwhelming advantage, causing the battle to continue for another couple hours. The empire forces had greater numbers overall, but the coalition forces were coordinated by an obviously skilled strategist. They were adept at avoiding losses and attacking in ways that Alquin couldn't anticipate. Nevertheless, his overall strategy was a solid one that his commanders followed diligently. The strain on the invading force soon became apparent.
The flight of several shuttles from various damaged ships obscured portions of the battle. Being the dominating force, all the empire forces were able to recover their allies without too much trouble. The coalition shuttles weren't as fortunate.
Alquin received a couple reports, one right after another. First was that a single coalition shuttle had been captured. The second was that there was an emergency message from the coalition fleet.
"It's a withdrawal notice, sir," an operations person said. A quick look at the battle screens indicated that the notice was honest. The coalition ships had started retreating towards the relay. They would soon be in position to flee.
"And?" Alquin asked, his tone flat.
"Er, should we stop attacking?" the operations person asked. He was surprised and dumbfounded that he even had to make the query.
"No," Alquin said. He crossed his arms and frowned at the images in front of him. Another coalition ship left the screen. Now half of the coalition ships had stopped attacking. Many weren't in position to, either.
"Get over it," said a man in communications. He had turned in his seat and stared at Alquin.
"What was that?" Alquin asked, his voice somewhat shaky. He stared at the man who had so impudently spoken out of line. Alquin knew what the man meant without thinking about it, but he forced himself to avoid thinking.
"It's a war, people die. Stop attacking. Let some of them live. Even enemies deserve the right to run away. Don't take your personal grudges out on others," the man said. The man's expression softened for a moment, and then he gave a quick salute. He turned around and continued with his duties.
"Stop attacking," Alquin said. He had given the command without thinking. He opened his mouth again to try and say something more, but no words came out. He didn't have anything he could articulate. His emotions wavered, unable to define themselves in concrete words. He could only look on as the coalition forces ceased battle and returned to the relay. Slowly, the ships started disappearing as they entered relay space. The last ship left the screen. Alquin waited a couple minutes, more than enough time for the coalition ships to move either several light days or light years away, and then gave the command to switch all relay travel to empire usage only. No coalition ship would be nearing Exoquis unless it came from a relay that was several weeks of near-light-speed travel away in coalition territory.
Alquin left the room. He was in a rush to get away, now that his duties were no longer needed. He felt like he should stay to keep his mind off things, but that wasn't going to happen no matter what he did. He had wanted to reply to the insubordinate office, and he wanted to destroy the enemy that had taken away things that were precious to him. He knew war was brutal. He was the one who believed that the scale of casualty was high in all forms of war. He believed that the ends justified the means, just like everyone else. That was until it affected him.
The hallways of the ship seemed narrower than they were. Alquin stumbled through them, and then stopped. He put his hands on the wall and lowered his head. He felt nauseous, but the song in his stomach wasn't going to make its way out of his mouth. He let it pass, and then continued walking. He was asleep in his quarters before long. As horrendous as he was feeling, sleep came quickly.
 
"Yue Fei, otherwise known as The Comet of Helt, correct?" asked an imposing inquisitor.
"Yes, sir."
"We appreciate your promptness in responding to the summons. We will take it into consideration later when doling out punishment," another inquisitor said. The first man tapped some papers on a desk. The second man had a slight smile. Yue didn't appreciate the false sincerity behind it. A third inquisitor stared at Yue with hawkish eyes her behind horn-rimmed glasses. She was lacking smile lines on her old face.
"Punishment?" Yue asked.
"Yes. Why did you think we summoned you?" the first man asked.
"I didn't give it any thought, sir. I'll admit I've never been in your presence before, but I still don't understand what you mean by punishment," Yue said.
"I suppose congratulations are in order, Mr. Comet," the woman said. Her flat tone didn't compliment the sarcasm.
"Just what's going on?" Yue asked, somewhat exasperated.
"Yes, no more dawdling. You're under review due to the fiasco at Exoquis," the second man said. Yue gritted his teeth, the first time of many to follow.
"It was unfortunate," Yue said.
"More than unfortunate, Mr. Comet," the woman said. "You didn't take Exoquis back, causing severe losses for the coalition."
"No more than usual," Yue replied offhandedly.
"Quiet!" the first man said. "Usual? Is it usual to lose battles?"
"Yes, it is," Yue said. "Several campaigns I've been in have been losing battles. Like the fourth battle of Jenes, where I was deployed to offset the gridlock. The empire dispatched someone as well, overwhelming us. I was there to inflict more damage than usual. They outnumber us, after all."
"That's not what this is about," the second man said.
"Yes it is! You wanted to know if I lose battles," Yue said. "Yes, I've won several, most notably at Helt, but there's still things like the loss at Tindal. If it wasn't for me, we'd have been wiped out entirely. The disturbance I made by putting the two empire generals in each other's path only allowed us a way out of a losing attack. For all my wins, I've got two losses to go with them!"
"And yet you fail to mention that you weren't the commander of those battles. You were deployed there under another general's command," the second man said.
"Yes, and all those generals are alive and well," Yue said.
"No thanks to you, right?" the woman asked.
"I meant they are all still commanding generals. Celebrated and decorated for even those losses. You were the one who mentioned I probably saved their lives as well," Yue said. He was insistent in his words, but wasn't upset.
"That's a different case entirely," the first man said.
"How so?" Yue asked. The panel members looked at each other for a moment, but no words passed between them.
"After deliberations, we've decided to suspend your rank until further notice," the first man said.
"What? Why?" Yue asked.
"Your fleet will be reassigned as well," the second man said.
"You're taking my fleet? Fine. But just answer the question," Yue said.
"Another outburst and we will have to reevaluate our decision," the woman said. Yue stopped for a moment. His heart was beating quickly, and he could feel the sweat forming on his forehead. He told himself to be calm. Be relaxed. Speak to them calmly, he decided.
"Do you dispute the decision?" the second man asked, a smile playing at the corners of his lips.
"What are the merits of it?" Yue asked, calmly for a change.
"That is self-evident. That which isn't, isn't for you to know," the woman said.
"It's my life you're destroying! I had little ambition; I just wanted to help the coalition!" Yue said. He was losing his calm at the lack of feedback given to him. The panel members looked at each other again. They put their hands over their mouths and whispered things Yue couldn't hear.
"Upon further discussion, we are upgrading our report of you to possible treason. Say one more insubordinate thing, and we will imprison you immediately. This is your only warning. If you acknowledge, we will investigate without imprisoning you. As a reward for your promptness. Now that's off my conscience," the second man said.
Yue wanted to scream and yell about how wrong this was. How one-sided it was. It was as-if the only reason they even had him there was to annoy him, as their decision was already made before Yue came. Then it clicked. Yue wasn't here to defend himself. He wasn't being derided by this council because of their decisions. It was someone above them. Yue grit his teeth again, and then smiled. He couldn't change anything here. He remembered Genbu's training. Another flinch of pain and emotion flashed, but he suppressed it. He couldn't mourn now, it wasn't time. The wrenching pain in his heart was dulled while he forced himself to bear the inquisition.
"Acknowledged and accepted. Thank you," Yue said, suppressing the malice that had made its way into his speech.
"Excellent. Well, thank you for your time. You will be called in again when the investigation is complete. I suggest you don't make any extensive plans for the next few years," the second man said. Yue grit his teeth. Bureaucracy worked at the same pace it always did. But this particular length of time was a warning to Yue that he wasn't part of the military anymore. The message was clear. They didn't want him there anymore. Though he couldn't bear the disgrace he had to go through, he knew the reason why they didn't want him. It was all too obvious, afterwards. The only question Yue had was whether to capitalize on it. A while ago, he may have said no.

Chapter 5

"Sir, my apologies," Terv Rend said. Alquin continued sitting, staring at the picture of Relos. He didn't hear the cry of girls in the background. He didn't see the commanders giving their respects. He mourned that Relos' funeral was held in space. Alquin thought it wasn't fair to the man who had given so much time and support to the cause. He deserved to be laid to rest on a planet, and remains that weren't scattered across the far reaches of space, but neither was an option for military men in space.
"You have nothing to apologize for," Alquin said. He had taken a moment to respond, but Terv had waited patiently.
"If there's anything I can do to help, let me know," Terv said. Alquin looked up with him, his brow knit.
"You can start by not hawking after his position at his funeral. You won't earn any points with me for being nice," Alquin said. His left eye twitched, and he tapped with a finger on his right hand.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean that," Terv said.
"Of course you didn't," Alquin said.
"Don't be sarcastic," Terv said, his voice firm. "I'm not some thief. Take other's kindness or leave it! Don't think that everyone is out for themselves."
Alquin's eyes widened. His shock wore off after a second.
"You're honest, aren't you?" Alquin asked.
"Of course. I know that's a rarity, but since it's true, I'm not going to hide it. Modest may be a different issue, though."
"Then, Terv, thank you. I'll keep your words in mind. All of them. Forgive me, it's not easy for me to trust right now."
"I know. Thank you sir." Terv saluted Alquin, and then turned and saluted the picture of Relos. "I'll see you again."
Terv left the funeral, earlier than several others who were making great displays of mourning. In the back of his mind, he knew they existed, putting on exaggerated mournings to try and win Alquin's favor. It was notable that none of Alquin's normal fleet commanders offered more than a solemn salute each. Words weren't necessary for these men to communicate their intense feelings. Alquin started making a list of them in his head, but he stopped after a couple. He didn't want to entertain thoughts of a replacement for Relos. Terv had mad a good impression, whether on purpose in a double-sided act or honestly, which Alquin respected either way. He dropped the thoughts of allied deception and turned his mind towards enemy engagements.
"That's right," Alquin said aloud to no one in particular. He was sick of the surroundings, and had remembered something that still required his attention. He stood, saluted the image of Relos for the final time in his life, and exited the room. It buzzed with whispers at his departure, but no one was going to stop the person most distraught.
A little while and a walk later he had arrived at the brig, a group of empire guards doing their jobs in front of it.
"Sir!" The guards all stood and saluted.
"How are they doing?" Alquin asked.
"Quiet, for the most part," the main guard said.
"You treating them alright?"
"Yes, sir. Though we can change that."
"No, no, you're doing fine. They still deserve the empire's best. I've finally calmed down. I won't hold that against them."
"Acknowledge, sir."
"I want to speak with them."
"Now, sir? It's late."
"Yes, now. One at a time. A dozen, right?"
"Yes, sir. Please wait in the interrogation room."
Alquin took a seat in the room that was split by a large transparent barrier. After a few minutes, the door on the other side of the room opened. Two guards escorted a man in. He was dressed in a standard coalition uniform. He shook his shoulders each time the guards held him, but his singular and restrained efforts weren't going to deter the guards. They gripped him harder, and forcibly sat him down. He stared at Alquin.
"When you get back, let your cohorts know there isn't a reason to resist. It won't help," Alquin said. The man didn't respond. "Why don't we start with something basic? Your name?"
The man didn't respond. One of the guards slapped the man.
"There's no need for that. Do it again and I'll have you executed," Alquin said. His voice was cool, but he was smiling.
"My apologies!"
"Good. Now, excuse my barbaric men for a moment. Aren't you going to tell me your name? No? I suppose not. Cannot get much easier than that, so the questions only get harder. What's the name of your commander? No? How about the fleet commander that took care of us so well in that operation? No? You're wife and children?" The man glared at Alquin for a moment, then spat. The glob of saliva made its way down the barrier. Alquin looked at one of the guards.
"Not without permission," the guard said in response to Alquin's unspoken thoughts.
"Well, that seemed to work better. But still silent. Do you think you will be freed if you're insubordinate? That you'll ever see your family again? That the coalition will recognize your deeds if you perish bravely in the hands of the enemy? There is an easier way. You can be free. Do you want to be freed and return to your country? Yes?"
"Ha, I won't betray my country. I'd rather die." The man's first words were filled with all the sarcasm and arrogance that Alquin expected.
"You don't have to," Alquin said. "But you're finally talking."
"That's not an accomplishment," the man said.
"Will I get your name now?"
"No."
"Fine. But tell me, honestly, do you want to go home?"
"Of course. But I'm not doing anything for you."
"Then go home." Alquin folded his hands and relaxed in his chair. "No conditions."
"I don't believe that."
"You said you want to go home. Then go home. Guards, remove his bonds." The two guards looked at Alquin. "Do it."
"What's with this fake display of kindness?" the man asked as he rubbed his wrists.
"I don't have time for this. I'm going to send you back to the coalition, no strings attached. No hostage negotiations. Nothing at all. You said you wanted to leave, so I've decided to let you go. All you had to do was say it. Take him away. Separate from the other prisoners. Take him to some private quarters, secured of course. Bring the next one in."
The guards complied, even through their confusion. It wasn't their job to question Alquin's decisions. They soon returned, another man in tow.
Alquin went through a similar routine several times, each with a new prisoner. A few of them were more reluctant to speak, and others were violent. Eventually, Alquin got them to talk and express an interest in going home. One by one, he sent them away, each with the promise of sending them home. Every man expressed disbelief, but they had all still said yes, which was what Alquin was looking for. The final person was escorted in.
Alquin blinked a few times. He looked at the guards, who both nodded. Sitting down in front of him was a young woman. Her lack of uniform implied that she was civilian. Her skin was lightly olive and her hair was black.
"You're civilian?" Alquin asked with some confusion. As expected, she didn't respond. "No name, of course. Should I just cut out the chase and ask if you want to go home? No strings, and you'll go back with the rest."
She didn't respond. Alquin sighed. He wished that Relos were present, as he had always had a way with women. Alquin felt a prick of emotion, but it wasn't as strong as before.
"I wish Relos was present. He's much better with women than me. Wait, no, he was. He died in that battle." Alquin stopped and wondered why he said that. He cursed himself. He realized he was just playing on a female stereotype by revealing thoughts and emotions to a stranger, simply because they were female. And it didn't seem like the woman was impressed by his intimate disclosure.
"I apologize, you wouldn't care. I must have killed those you knew as well. It's war."
He sat back in the chair and closed his eyes for a minute. He saw the woman's glare when he opened them again.
"Speak or die," Alquin said. She didn't say a word, but she did raise her head slightly. It was a small reaction, enough for Alquin. "The rest of your companions already made their decisions."
Alquin went on for a while, going between pleading and commanding, but he was never overly threatening. His motive was simple, but even when he stated it, she wouldn't respond. He wanted her to speak and acknowledge a desire to go home, which he would then honor. If she didn't, he wouldn't let her go. But this honest explanation didn't seem to affect her, which annoyed Alquin to no end.
"Oh come on," he said in a fit of exasperation. "We've been at this for a while, and unless you're dumb and mute, you know what I'm saying. I'll leave you alone, I swear on Relos' grave I will, if you just answer. Do you want to go home?"
"No," she said. She added a smug smile to her first bit of expression.
"You're lying. Fine, so you don't trust me. You still think I'll betray my words. But I swore I'd leave you alone if you answered. And so I will. But let me tell you one thing. Because of your stupid insistence, you're answer being no, instead of yes or nothing, means that I will not send you home, even if you ask in the future. You're now here willingly, whether you meant it or not. And I won't be waiting to see if you want to argue that, now that you've spoken."
Alquin stood, turned, and then walked out of the room. The door opened and Alquin stepped through.
"Wait," said the woman. Alquin heard. He turned where he was standing.
"No." Alquin closed the door and left the interrogation room.
"Sir, how was it?" one of the guards asked.
"Acceptable for me. We have a new guest. I want you to do something for her. Prepare a room, executive quarters. Have it secured, locked from the outside, restricted access, and so on. Set it up so even the most vile of prisoner would be able to relax in it while still being restrained."
"Acknowledged. Shall we move the prisoner there when ready?"
"Eventually. For now, escort her to the bridge."
 
Miku rubbed her wrists. The restraints were off her, but the rest of her situation was just as shackling. She was alone in the large cell, where there had been several comrades before. They had disappeared one by one, never returning. Yet here she was, alone. She became miffed at the thought, and annoyed that she was being treated so differently simply because she was a woman. But she couldn't stay angry. She was restrained, but she didn't feel oppressed. She hadn't been vilified or abused, contrary to her expectations. But she had decided that she wouldn't fall prey to the enemy's routine of pretending to be good to a captive to win their trust.
"Come out," said one of the three guards that had opened her cell. She held out her hands to be cuffed. "That won't be necessary."
Miku smiled. It was true. She wouldn't do anything drastic. She wasn't going to play the dramatic heroin who tries to escape. She wasn't going to be a martyr. She didn't expect to either live or die. She was calm.
"More questioning?" she asked. She had already spoken once, so she didn't see why she should remain silent anymore.
"I don't know. Alquin wanted you on the bridge now," a guard said.
"Who?" she asked.
"Alquin, our general. That man who had been questioning you earlier."
"He was a general? His name is Alquin? Is that a common name?" Miku asked. She had heard the name before.
"No. He's a young general, though we all look up to him. He's given your people more trouble than you'd expect, so he was promoted quickly."
"Is he the one responsible for conquering Exoquis?"
"No. He's the one who liberated Exoquis."
"Was he the one who did the defense of the relay as well?"
"Not entirely. His friend was the commander during that battle. It was only after Relos was killed that Alquin took over. A shame. He was a good boy."
Miku fell silent. Her mind was racing. She had heard of Alquin through Gim's report. She had seen the progress of the battle around the relay first-hand. She had noted the tactics and strategies used. And she had lamented the painful loss of the battle.
She sighed and wished that Alquin's strategy hadn't been so thorough. The ship she and Yue had been on was damaged to the point of imminent destruction, necessitating its evacuation. Yue, as the commander, was whisked away and taken to a shuttle that prioritized his life. Miku ended up on a separate shuttle, thus leading to her current predicament. She was thankful that the only blast that had hit the ship had only damaged it instead of destroying it, but it was a blow nonetheless. Yue must have retreated, or been forced to retreat, soon after.
The guards led Miku through various hallways until they reached the bridge. The sight of Alquin made Miku anxious for a moment. He had been transformed from a strange inquisitor into a fleet commander, solidified by the sight of him ordering others.
"Ah, you've arrived," Alquin said.
"I have, Alquin," Miku said. She had tried to sound imposing, but wasn't.
"So you know my name!" Alquin said with a broad smile.
"I asked," Miku said.
"And you're talking," Alquin said.
"Think nothing of it. Why was I brought here? Why to several things, as well," Miku said.
"I'll answer them with your name."
"It's Tenraijin Miku."
"Ah, Miku. Or should I call you Tenraijin-san?"
"So you are slightly cultured, good," Miku said.
"So then, Miku, I have an interesting show ahead. If you'll look at the screen, you'll see where your comrades have ended up."
Miku looked at where Alquin was pointing. On the screen was a coalition shuttle in the hold of another ship. In the corners of the screen were images of people inside the shuttle. Several coalition men, the other prisoners, were visible. Another screen showed the main ship, also of coalition origin.
"What is this?" Miku asked.
"It's freedom. Hold on. Terv!"
"Yes sir?" Terv asked.
"Send the message and authorization now. Switch the relay to coalition control long enough for our allies to drop off the package and get back. They are using coalition wares, hopefully that'll keep them safe for just long enough."
"Yes, sir," Terv said. He left Alquin and started telling different stations what to do.
"Is this an act?" Miku asked.
"No. Honestly. We are, in fact, sending them home. As they asked," Alquin said.
Miku felt a flash of anger. She thought that her allies had sold her to the enemy for their own freedom. She clenched her fists and gave a glare of disdain to Alquin.
"You traitors. And you, you're a manipulative opportunist," Miku said.
"They said yes. You said no. I didn't manipulate that, did I?" Alquin asked.
"Yes? No? To what? It doesn't change anything. What did they give to you for them to win their freedom? Was it because I was a civilian? Or did they tell you something else? Like who… well what was it?" Miku asked.
"No. I asked them if they wanted to go home. Some didn't answer, but they all said yes, eventually. No one said no. No one but you. You specifically said no. It's as simple as that," Alquin said. He wore a large smile of the mischievous kind.
"Liar."
"No, Miku. Did you think I would have gained anything from just getting an honest, heartfelt answer? They were scared. And you still are. But they, even though they thought it may entrap them, didn't deny that they wanted to be elsewhere, home, wherever that was. But you said no. Don't you think that says something? Why would you say no to such a simple and innocuous question?" Alquin asked.
"I thought you were lying, of course," Miku said without much thought.
"And so you lied."
Miku didn't respond. She wasn't sure if she could believe Alquin. She decided to not say anything for the time being. She saw the shuttle on screen again. The main ship was almost in range of the relay. Its main engines had stopped long ago while inertia carried it onwards. The image started to distort as the ship prepared to enter relay space.
Miku still thought there was a possibility it was all an elaborate trap. But she couldn't understand why that could be true. She couldn't see the benefit in Alquin tricking her. She did consider that Alquin had shown great strategy in battle before, but that didn't mean he was using that tactile thinking on her. There just wasn't any benefit if he didn't know who she was. She wasn't sure if Alquin knew or not either. Or if he even cared that he had a war hero's daughter. Though he might, Miku still knew that her personal value was little, even as a Tenraijin hostage.
She expected that Alquin would actually destroy the shuttle and kill off the prisoners he had captured. She decided he was going to do that without letting her know. The ship she was watching disappeared.
It had finished forming a field that disconnected it from universal gravity while entering the relay's area. The relay was connected to other relays by twin particles that shared information instantly across the universe. This connected them, allowing the command to send and receive ships to be received by both. They each formed a de-gravity tunnel that connected them in an instant. The ship would travel through the tunnel in another instant.
It was possible because the universe had been discovered to be closer to the standard model than previously thought. As a result, it had been proven that space-time and gravity were interrelated so thoroughly that disconnecting an object from external gravity, which was a part of space, not a particle, also disconnected it from space-time itself, allowing instantaneous travel by means of the relays that had been designed to create de-gravity tunnels.
A minute after disappearing, the ship returned. The captain of it hailed Alquin.
"Sir, they were dropped off safely. Managed to avoid getting blasted by the sentries that were there. It was a good idea to take a coalition ship. Suggest we switch the relay to only let our side use it."
"Already done," Terv said.
"Excellent. I suppose they will be changing coalition relay codes now, so we wouldn't be able to use it again anyways. I'm somewhat surprised they hadn't done so already," Alquin said.
"It takes a council time to draft a proposal and then the members have to vote on it. Then the codes will be changed," Miku said.
"Oh, of course, your government has that process. Ridiculously time consuming," Alquin said.
"It moves along fast enough. They probably had an emergency decree, it just takes time for each relay station to receive and comply," Miku said.
"So, it still has a process, and a slow one."
"Faster than having a single emperor try to make a universe's worth of decisions."
"Notice how I'm the one who changed how the relay works? Without waiting?"
"Part of your orders, though."
"Oh fine, just think however you want. I wasn't the one comparing our systems of government. I just said your government has these useless time wasting ideas. It does. It doesn't matter if I think there is something better or I view it as the best. It's still a waste of time," Alquin said.
Miku rolled her eyes. But she didn't want to argue the idea as well. She wasn't going to get an enemy to view her nation's ideas as better. She turned her attention to the screen again. She was surprised at what she saw. There was a recording of the shuttle being delivered. Video of the men she knew, showing that they had made it away safely and into the comfort of allies. She looked at Alquin, who had a smug grin.
"I told you, they were to be freed. And I made sure you'd have proof to know what I said was true. What do you think?" Alquin asked.
"Is this how you mock me?" Miku asked. She finally believed several of the things Alquin had earlier said. She realized that she hadn't been betrayed by allies. She breathed a small sigh of relief, and then turned her anger on Alquin again.
"Again, I'm not mocking you. You chose."
"You are ridiculous. But you haven't kept prisoners. You are ruthless, yet kind, so I will thank you. It is almost unheard of, for a person such as yourself to let hostages go because they want to," Miku said.
"It was nothing. It wouldn't happen again. Today was special. And I feared that if I did keep them here, I'd do something despicable in retaliation. Fortunately, someone brought me to my senses before I could even think of that, but I still think of what might have happened," Alquin said.
"Was your friend the reason you decided?"
"Yes. I couldn't add more grief to his day," Alquin said. He rubbed his temples with one hand.
"You were right. War. It cannot be helped. My apologies wouldn't be enough, nor would it be honest. Though that is true, I am still sorry for your loss," Miku said.
"You're quite chivalrous," Alquin said. He chuckled lightly.
"Ha," Miku said. "You seem to be as well. So please ready my shuttle. It's been enjoyable, though. At least one of the relays has to still be open. The coalition can be a bit slow, fortunately."
"Oh? What shuttle?" Alquin asked. He was smiling in a way that Miku didn't like.
"For me to leave here. Like the rest. You've had your fun in pulling my chain long enough," Miku said. She was polite and smiled softly, now that she thought that Alquin had been annoying her purposefully.
"No. You're staying. You won't be returning to the coalition. I already warned you. I was only giving you one chance, and you said no. You don't, or didn't, want to go home, therefore you won't. You're still a prisoner. Not a hostage, a prisoner, not of war either. Simply put, you're stuck here," Alquin said with all seriousness.
"Are you still joking? You have to be. That was a different circumstance!"
"No, Miku. As unfair as you think it is, and it is unfair, you're bound to it. I don't take my word back when I've been honest. Get used to your new room. It's near mine, so I'll see you later. Guards, take her away."

Chapter 6

"I feel like I'd be better off staring into the sky and pondering the genius of the big dipper formation. But my seventh star is missing, I'll be staring upwards indefinitely, unable to hear her pleas beside me. Or maybe it would be better if poisonous passion flowers pricked me all over, the antidote being lost."
"Don't kid yourself. That poison wouldn't affect you. It was only for romantic love. That's not how you feel," Genbu said.
Yue Fei sighed and shook his head. He said, "I'm sorry. I've been reading again. I hate to think of how much free time I have. Maybe you're right. But she was still my responsibility."
"No, she was mine. I knew something may happen to her. You cannot blame yourself," Genbu said.
"You're too kind. But it's still my fault," Yue said.
"I won't argue. Now we have something of greater importance.
"More important than your own child?"
"She's but a part of it. You know as well as I. Otherwise you wouldn't have let her go. It was the right decision, even if it wasn't the most desirable. You knew that to begin with, even if it was tough then."
"You're correct. An inconvenient truth. But even if it was supposed to be for the greater good, what has been the point of it all now? I'm stuck here, sipping tea. No offense." Yue Fei raised his cup and took a drink. Genbu chuckled slightly.
They were interrupted by the door opening. Aki walked in with a platter of items. Yue took an orange from her. She placed a plate of sembei in front of Genbu, who held his sleeve with one hand while reaching for the crackers with another. She refilled the teacups and then took her leave, sliding the door closed behind her.
"Ever had these?" Genbu asked.
"I don't think I have," Yue said. He reached for the cracker that had a bit of dried seaweed around it. He took a bite and chewed for a bit. His face told Genbu a sad story.
"You don't like it?"
"I'm sure they are good. I'm just not used to it," Yue said. He laid the cracker down, and then washed the salty taste down with some tea. He peeled the orange and ate a slice. "Oranges are much more my flavor."
"Those are mikan. About the same, for you. Tough to get into. Assembled from several different slices. Sweet and tang. Expected, yet not."
"You'll have to forgive me. What is the connection?"
"It's in general. Don't take it so literally. Infer what is meant, even if wrong," Genbu said. Yue wondered what Genbu meant, or if Genbu was getting his translation wrong.
"I haven't asked your opinion yet. The demotion. The investigation against me. What do you think, so far?" Yue asked. He didn't mention that his first thought was that Genbu had been the one to incite the inquisitors against him, in retribution for losing his daughter. But Genbu had been the one to invite Yue to come to his house, almost forcibly since Yue wasn't inclined to come. Genbu was quick to allay Yue's fears in person, so the past few days of quiet and relaxation had helped Yue immensely.
"I think they were scared. The council. They have been at odds with President Tecle recently. Recently he's been supporting younger generals. Many with some achievement, none as great as yours though. And maybe you'd know of how he replaced one general with a much younger officer who had shown promise."
"I'd heard of it, but what does that have to do with me?"
"You'd likely be next. And it wouldn't be just an older general you'd replace. The council has many friends in the ranks, and all admirals received explicit support before being appointed. That was in the past. Think about what would happen if one of the admirals were forcibly retired by the president and replaced by you, a young star."
"But I'm loyal to the coalition. Council, president, and all! Though I wouldn't want that to happen, still, why does that mean the council wants me out of the way?"
"You still don't get it, then. The council thinks they are the greatest power in the land. They don't agree with the president. All admirals are friends with the council members. The president then removes an admiral and replaces him with a new one, one that hasn't been influenced or is intimate friends with the council members. That new person would be a threat to the council because he wouldn't be controlled by them. Though the president has actual military command, his power in that regards has been limited by the council's relationship with the admirals. This would begin to usurp the council's ideas for the war. Meaning the president would gradually reassume control. Since that's technically the president's right, the council cannot stop him. But they can still go after the people he'd likely promote. Meaning, they label you something terrible in order to cut the president off before he can do anything about it. Eventually, this is likely to lead to him losing the next election, but I'm sure you can make the series of connections from there. Another orange?"
"Yes. That does make sense." Yue took another mikan and peeled it. He stood up for a moment before returning to his cross-legged position. After two slices, Genbu spoke up.
"I didn't call you here to eat. Nor was it about my daughter. Your demotion was."
Yue ate another slice, and then took a sip of tea while he thought of how to respond. He looked at Genbu. Unable to think of something to say, he nodded.
"I've been pulled out of retirement."
"That's!" Yue said, but his enthusiasm faded instantly. "What?"
"They had to have someone that could be just as thoughtful as you. Or really, they are low on qualified personnel. It's no secret we've always had fewer resources than the empire. In both ships and personnel. But lately the leadership hasn't been what it once was. Battles that once would have been won even when outnumbered two to one haven't been happening. The training given doesn't seem to be the same. The hard lessons learned in battle have been replaced by schooling that doesn't prepare these egg-generals for real work."
"I haven't heard that one. Egg-generals?"
"It means they are given everything they need at a young age, but aren't given the time to mature in real life. These students who spend years in school so they can come out of the school qualified to lead, then failing miserably. Even cadets who've had a few years of experience do better in real battle."
"So many issues with our coalition. It's sad. Does this mean they are pulling more older generals out of retirement, besides you?"
"Yes, it's a problem. Another one the council is blaming on the president. They expect him to fix everything that isn't even his fault."
"Genbu, you aren't a supporter of the council?"
"I was. I'm not a supporter of the president, either. I think they both need to change. But I am a trusted commander from the prior councils and battles. I can be relied on. So they think."
"I'm certain you can."
"That's not the point. But that isn't why I mention my promotion. I want you to come along."
"I don't have any authority left."
"That isn't necessary. I'll be in full control. And I want you there as well. In the belly of the monster, that is where we will work."
"Where?"
"The fortress Zeick."
"The vanguard of the coalition. The single most important fortress. And they are giving it to you?"
"To us."
"I don't deserve it."
"Yes, Yue Fei, you do. Your name says you do. Don't end up like the real Yue Fei. Betrayed by his own, correct?"
"It's unknown. Likely. I won't be."
"You will if you continue like this."
"That's why I won't be. I'm coming with you."
 
The space fortress Zeick was half the size of Earth's moon. Yue knew most of the information about it, but he had never seen it or been on it before. Seeing the structure in person was an experience he wouldn't forget. It had taken several years to create, and had cost several asteroids their resources.
Genbu and Yue Fei wasted no time in taking the place of the nervous general who was only too happy to leave.
Yue took a short trip exploring the areas he would need to know for a while, and then returned to the command center. Yue would never have the time to explore it fully.
Genbu took a week preparing the crew for his command. He laid down his rules and regulations and got to know some of the staff. Yue noticed that most people already knew exactly who Genbu was without even an introduction. Yue eventually found out that most of the personnel on the ship had been picked by Genbu. Yue had to chuckle when he realized that Genbu had been notified of his new command months ago, and had been preparing staff for himself. People loyal to Genbu, they were what staffed Zeick.
"Are you getting used to life here?" asked a woman whom Yue had seen around a few times. Yue was reviewing specifications and other facts about Zeick and its strategies in the command room when the woman approached.
"I'm warming up to it," Yue replied. He looked up from where he worked and smiled.
"If you need anything from now on, you can let either me or Kelin know. He's that redhead over there. We run operations. I'm Teena." She held out her hand. Yue didn't reject the courtesy.
"Thank you. It's nothing I won't be an expert on shortly," Yue said with a small laugh.
"Oh? A bit of an expert, are we? I think you'll get along well with Kelin then. He too thinks he is. Together you two could get together and plot how to conquer space sickness," Teena said.
"Excuse me?" Yue asked.
"You know, space sickness."
"No, I mean, that I know. But why do you think of me like that?"
"Oh, you were serious weren't you? I'm sorry. Excuse me," she said, and then walked off while laughing. Yue was utterly confused. He scratched his head for a moment, and then went back to what he was doing previously. But he was soon interrupted again.
"Hi there." Yue turned around and saw a man with red hair. Yue assumed it must be the person that Teena had mentioned before.
"Hello," Yue said.
"See, isn't his expression so serious?" Teena asked as she appeared from behind Kelin.
"You'll have to excuse my wife. She's more than enthralled to have you here, for some reason. I expect she just wants me to be a little more jealous," Kelin said while smiling. He held out his hand, which Yue shook.
"Jealous? Excuse me?" Yue asked.
"Oh that's just wrong. Don't let him mess with you either," Teena said while hitting Kelin's arm.
"Um, thank you. I won't," Yue said, still unsure of what was going on.
"Ahem. We were just playing with you. Excuse our bad behavior. My name is Kelin Kedros, and this is Teena Kedros. We're the main operators for Zeick. We're a bit odd, as you well know now, but anything, anything at all you need, you should ask of us first. We know it all. Zeick has been our home for longer than anyone else here."
"Ha. I see now. Excuse me as well. I'm still disoriented from this whole ordeal. I'd have chuckled, if I had realized what was going on. Thank you for the warm introduction," Yue said while trying his best to smile.
"Not a problem at all," Teena said. She glanced at Kelin and gave a sly smile. He returned it and nodded. "No problem, Yue Fei, the great commander who was betrayed by those above him. A hero to all those below him. All below him. And all still are."
"You know my situation?"
"Much more than that," Kelin said. "Have fun on the fortress Zeick. Eventually, you'll find out how much it can do, and how fun that will be. Goodbye for now. Come on, Teena. He'll find out the rest soon enough."
Yue watched with bewilderment and awe as the couple left him and took their seats. He realized, from where they sat, that their operations section wasn't the one that controlled the day-to-day issues of the fortress. They were operators for the movement and battle systems, the lifeblood of any combat vessel. Yue couldn't help but laugh, as he realized that they were the people that would receive the most commands, should a battle ensue.
"What a strange couple."
 
Alquin took a last look back at Exoquis. The planet became smaller as the distance grew larger. The ship soon entered the relay's area.
"Sir, we are ready to go."
"Go," Alquin said. The ship lurched slightly. Alquin closed his eyes for a moment.
"Complete. The rest of the fleet is out as well."
"Thank you. Land us as soon as possible," Alquin said. He left the room and headed for another one. After a while he reached it and pressed a button at the side.
"It's Alquin, I'm coming in." The door opened to reveal a spacious room. Sitting in the middle of it was Miku. She was on the floor at a small table.
"I suppose I can't tell you to stay out," Miku said.
"You could, but it would be better for you to let me stay, if you want to know what is going on," Alquin said. He sat on the floor at the other side of the table.
"So what brings you to me, again?"
"Why is this table so low?"
"It's traditional. Why bother with chairs, anyways? Do you want something to drink?"
"As long as it won't kill me," Alquin said with a weary smile.
"It won't. I might." Miku smiled slightly, and then worked at making and subsequently pouring tea.
"Thank you."
"It's common courtesy. It's standard. It doesn't mean anything more."
"You don't have to qualify your disdain." Alquin took a sip. "This is good."
"Again, why are you here?"
"I'm just taking care of my favorite prisoner."
"And your intentions? Why? Why, why, why, am I stuck with this? Not just the imprisonment."
"We've left Exoquis. We're at the capitol now."
"What? You've brought me all the way there? Are you serious? You really aren't going to let me go, are you?"
"No. It's too late for that now. Now you get to see the empire. The emperor, even," Alquin said in-between sips. He raised an eyebrow. "Sound interesting?"
"Not in the least."
"What do you hate about the empire?"
"And what about you and the coalition?"
"It should be conquered. Whether or not your people started the war, I'll end it."
"You started it."
"So say your textbooks. Ours say you started it. But, frankly, I don't care about who started it. I'll end it."
"You confidant of that? You going to bring peace or something like that to both sides? Do you imagine that you can blissfully work out some truce? How can you end the war? It won't happen, at least not in a way that satisfies everyone. Some don't even want it to stop. So tell me, oh grand and mighty general, how will you do it?" Miku spoke with ever-increasing amounts of sarcasm, but Alquin didn't react to it.
"Some don't want it to stop. Like our emperor. The man, and all those before him, have used the war to control us. To impose a hierarchy, where accomplishment and wealth net you everything."
"You know that, so why do you support him?"
"The coalition council says that only current citizens get rights under their government. An empire refugee? Locked up without the right to ask why or to ask the court to prove they have reason to keep them. Am I wrong?"
"That's not how everything is," Miku said, but she fidgeted slightly.
"There's more. Corporations have influence over the rulers. Relationships in politics determine who gets what benefits. The people are given mock control in a system that divides itself and lacks clear direction. At least the emperor knows what he is doing, consistently. Neither one has an outstanding number of benefits over the other. That's my view. I didn't come to discuss politics or say who's right and who is wrong, since the answer is neither. I came because I do recognize that both the council and the emperor are wrong, or inadequate. Correct?"
"I'll concede to some of that," Miku said.
"Would you like to meet the emperor?"
"Me? That's, no, I don't think I could handle that. I'd strangle him if I saw him, probably."
"Good. Do you think you can when you see him?" Alquin asked with a wide smile.
"You aren't serious."
"No, but keep thinking. I still want to take you along. Without mentioning you're from the coalition. No, I definitely will be taking you, and this is your warning."
Miku leaned back and took a drink. She didn't want to give Alquin any response, because she was interested in what he had to say. She did want to see the empire. She didn't like the emperor, but she thought Alquin was just joking with her. She did wonder what she would do if she did see the emperor in person.
 
The door opened and a dress was delivered. Miku looked at it with a bit lip. She didn't want to acknowledge Alquin's desires, but she did want to appease her own curiosity. She put the dress on.
"It looks wonderful on you," Alquin said when Miku exited the room.
"Careful, I might escape now that I'm out," Miku said.
"No, you won't try." Miku didn't respond.
"Sir, everything is ready for you," Terv said. Alquin nodded, and Terv led him and Miku outside the ship. Waiting for them was a limousine, which Alquin had Miku enter first.
Inside were a couple men that Miku didn't know. She guessed they were of some importance, since they were both older and more decorated than Alquin. The car started moving and the men started talking.
"How have you been, Alquin?" an old man with a gray beard asked.
"Not as well as I could be. We'll have to proceed without Relos, as you know," Alquin said.
"Does that mean we will be moving now?" a middle-aged man asked.
"No. Test run, of sorts. Set everything up as discussed, but do not move. It won't be time, just yet. We need a reason. Right now I haven't recruited enough either," Alquin said.
"Fine. But we're expecting things to proceed as you said. You promised, and won't break it, correct?" an old man with a pure white mustache asked.
"Of course. As long as you've understood the changes. And swear obedience. I'm not going to replace the system, just the man," Alquin said.
"And do you really think you're deserving of this?" the old man with the gray beard asked.
"Not at all. But things must change, for me. Your motives may not be as noble, but I respect them nonetheless. It's fine for me to give a little to get more," Alquin said.
"Hmm. Yes, then I'll agree fully. You'll have my complete support. By the way, who is this lovely young lady?" the middle-aged man asked.
"A trophy," Alquin said.
The men all looked at one another with half grins. Miku gave Alquin a glare of disdain. Alquin then put his hand on hers, which she promptly shook off.
"That's getting ahead of yourself," Miku said. The others all started laughing at her, including Alquin.
"Oh, please miss, what a strange comment to say with that tone," the mustached old man said. "Your name?"
"She's Aoi, Aoi Enys," Alquin said. Miku opened her mouth to object, but Alquin turned and smiled at her while placing his hand on hers and squeezing it. She realized what he meant.
"Yes, Aoi. I'm just a lost girl that Alquin happened to capture along the way to greatness. Isn't that right?" Miku asked.
"Yes, yes, exactly as she said," Alquin said, and then laughed heartily once.
"I see. Well, she must have been someone to be in on this conversation," the middle-aged man said.
"Anyways, we're about there."
 
The awards ceremony was a well-known occurrence. Alquin stood with several other generals who had done things worthy of merit, though most of the others weren't usually given ceremonies. Because of Alquin, the rest had benefited by being invited.
They stood patiently as the ceremonies began, none of which Alquin cared about. They were all part of custom, there to praise the emperor and the country. A few ministers would give speeches, short ones, praising the deeds of military personnel, and then would attribute everything to the oversight of the emperor. After they had all finished, the emperor made his appearance and gave a speech longer than the rest. No one was permitted to have a speech longer than the emperor's, of course.
"Leaders and subjects, it's on this great day I see you again. Many have done ill against our great Ingrid, but on this day we praise those that have been determined to protect Ingrid from all filth," the emperor said. He continued on unabated, but Alquin didn't pay attention to the ramblings. As time passed the speech became harder and more embittered as the emperor extolled the virtues of the empire and degraded the coalition. Never once did he crack a smile or make a joke. With Emperor Chandler IV, everything was business.
Eventually they arrived at the part where the awards were to be handed out. Alquin watched as the people before him would go to the emperor when requested and take a medal or plaque. They gave a short remark of thanks, posed for the cameras, and then left. As each left, Alquin could see the tension lift off the men in question. Though they were all hardened military men, they worried immensely about being in the presence of the emperor. There was good reason for it, as would be soon demonstrated.
Alquin, being the person with the greatest accomplishment, would receive his reward last. It was almost his turn, as there was only one person left ahead of him. The person before that was already receiving his reward from the emperor.
Alquin hadn't noticed the person in front of him before, but a brief glance at the man made Alquin take interest. His face was wearing a grim expression, and his forehead was trickling with sweat. Alquin chuckled to himself as he realized this must be the first time this person has met the emperor in person. But then he took another glance at the man's clothes. He was of high rank, a fleet commander of some kind, Alquin thought. Though it wasn't common for commanders to meet the emperor, most were experienced enough so that meeting him wouldn't be too stressful. Even Alquin was nervous the first time he met the emperor, but the emperor's terseness at the time helped Alquin to regain his composure.
The next person was called. The man's hands tightened into balls, and his knuckles bulged. He took slow, methodical steps, until he was near the emperor.
"Jonas Matthews, for how long have you been in the service?" the emperor asked.
"Fifteen years, Lord," Jonas said. He bowed his head.
"Fifteen. A truly long time to be in service. You've risen in rank all the way from a cadet, correct?"
"Yes, sir."
"Then for your fifteen years, you should be given an award."
"Thank you, sir," Jonas said with a shaky voice. He raised his head.
"Keep your head down, swine!" the emperor said with such vigor that Alquin nearly stumbled backwards. "Do you think you deserve anything? You dare to raise your head before I can take it off for costing me, no, us, the empire, such precious forces that you've squandered, squandered and lost, you stupid fool?"
The man fell to the ground in tears. Alquin caught his breath and watched the ongoing spectacle. The emperor's elite guards, twelve men in dark uniforms, took their place between the emperor and Jonas. A couple of them pulled Jonas up by the arms.
"This scum who no longer deserves to be called a man, he dared to lose his fleet. Destroyed and beaten like the dog he was, instead of dying at the hands of the coalition, he ran away. Let this be a lesson. Even a coalition ambush doesn't warrant the loss of an entire fleet without taking down a single enemy ship! You incompetent nitwit, your failure was living long enough to come back. I'll send you straight to where the people who unfortunately called themselves your lackeys are!" The emperor's tirade ended, and the man was dragged away. The emperor sat while the audience waited in silence.
A series of shots were heard in the distance. For a very short while, the air was still, silent. Alquin looked at the emperor, who was straight-faced as usual, eyes closed. The emperor opened his eyes, flared his nostrils, and scanned the crowd with piercing eyes. Alquin felt a chill run down his spine, and then he raised his hands in front of him.
One lone clap was heard, then a second, and then twenty. The audience erupted with clapping, and soon were hooting and cheering. The emperor smiled for a brief second, and then held up a hand. Silence returned to the area, as did the group of guards that had left the area.
"Alquin Tor Rinard, for his merits, will come forward," said the master of ceremonies.
Alquin made fists with his hands, squeezed, and then let go. His hands and shoulders were smooth and relaxed. He turned to look into the crowd. He saw a girl in a jade-green dress looking at him. Her pretty face was somewhat pale, and with it she scowled and mouthed some words. She then looked at the emperor, her face filled with scorn.
Alquin laughed internally at Miku. He took a step, and then walked to where the emperor waited. He took his place and bowed his head slightly.
"Alquin Rinard, you've made a sufficient accomplishment," the emperor said.
"I present the conquest of Exoquis to the Ingrid Empire. May it remain strong in the emperor's hands," Alquin said.
"Do not think you're unnoticed. Even I now know that it was your planet of birth. It was a loss that we should not have had," the emperor said. Alquin remained still, without saying a word. After a few moments, the emperor continued. "You're granted with first rank general currently. You will be raised to third rank general. Should you accomplish more of the same quality work, you will soon be an admiral, answering only to me. Work for it, be there, and serve me. For Ingrid."
"Yes, Lord," Alquin said. He accepted the medal and the insignia that went with his new rank. In addition, he was given a formal letter detailing the additional forces and missions assigned to him. He would review the real details on a computer later, but for now he accepted the assigned paper with outstretched hands.
Once he had it, he turned and faced the rest of the empire, whether they were in the audience in front of him or at home watching. He smiled the bright and youthful smile that he had been naturally given and took a small bow, just deep enough to convey respect but not subservience. He then saluted both the audience and then the emperor. He took his leave as directed. Once away from it all, he avoided the crowds and made his way to his entourage outside. He swiftly entered the limousine and sat on the plush seats. He threw his head back once, and then brought it forward into his hands. A few moments later Miku arrived and took a seat inside while the door closed behind her.
"You're despicable," she said while frowning.
Alquin didn't respond. He lifted his head. His face was red and covered with sweat. He reached around and pulled out a paper bag from a compartment. He quickly opened it and placed it to his mouth. Miku's frown changed into a look of bewilderment when Alquin vomited in the bag.
"Don't judge me," Alquin said while heaving.
"What's wrong with you?" Miku asked, still somewhat harshly. But there was concern in her voice.
"I did things I hate. Of course I'm having a bad reaction," Alquin said. He looked at Miku fiercely. He looked wild and unkempt, a quick and startling transformation from the person Miku thought she knew.
"What? What did you hate?" Miku asked, this time she sounded earnest.
"That man. That despicable emperor. He toys with us. All of us. He pretends he wants the war to end, when the truth is that it keeps us in line and busy. He lets those in power run rampant without care. He doesn't care. He views all those below him as ants to be squashed. And I hate him," Alquin said.
"But, what? Then what was all that?"
"Act. I have to act. But my pride won't forgive me that easily. It disgusts me. But soon, soon I'll be the one to laugh at him," Alquin said in between breaths.
"Really, are you alright? You're looking worse," Miku said.
"Fear. It's fear. Don't worry about it. I'll be over it soon. As soon as I get away from him. Didn't you see what he did to that man? A loyal commander, executed brutally for a single mistake after years of service?" Alquin asked.
"It was terrible. But, but you clapped. You clapped first."
"Of course. I won't end up like that man. Not like what will happen to his family. His wife and children and parents and everyone he knew. All to pay for what mistake he made. A mistake he wasn't sure would cost him until it was too late. I had to. I had to smile and pretend that my loyalty to the emperor outweighed all else. It didn't need to be much, it just had to be something." Alquin calmed down greatly. He took in a few deep breaths. "I'll live, and rise, still. And I'll be over this fear that that man has instilled in every subject."
"You really are, aren't you? You're going to rebel," Miku said. She had softened her look and was staring with wide eyes. Her impression of Alquin was changing.
"He doesn't have much more time left to rule. Not much at all. All I have to do is find out when to cross that line. And it appears that it will be sooner than I had planned." Alquin handed the paper that he had earlier received to Miku, who looked it over.
"They are giving you that many ships? This is ridiculous! Wait, the empire really has this many to give to a general? I knew we were outnumbered, but this is too many for just one person to have!"
"Not exactly. See what that particular number is to be used for? Keep reading."
"To be… assault… coalition stronghold, Zeick. Zeick, the space fortress? Our fortress?"
"It's just an assault, not a capture. The orders expect failure. But that doesn't mean I can let it happen."
"If it was open battle, your force would be overwhelming. But Zeick isn't weak. This isn't enough. You'd lose heavily," Miku said flatly. Alquin nodded.
"It's not worth thinking about right now. I'll have to do it, eventually."
"You don't have to. There has to be a way besides this route. Why don't you try talking with the coalition? They can help, support you even. With a force this size, you could turn on the emperor and he'd be hard pressed to resist."
"You say that so lightly. I respect your thoughts. But this dreamy ideal of the coalition coming to the rescue firstly, won't work, and second, I won't have it. The coalition is still my enemy. The enemy of my enemy doesn't have to be my friend, no matter what the writer said. I'm going after the coalition next."
"But you're opposed to the empire! I don't get why you cannot even consider this!"
"Miku, you misunderstand. I'm selfish. You see, someone precious was taken from me. But our wills didn't matter, as the emperor said that those with privilege deserve more privilege, and can plunder those below them, anyone below them, at will. It's a disease all the way up the chain. A middle-class man can abuse a poor. A rich abuses a middle. A tycoon steals from the rich. A noble takes from the tycoon. And the emperor takes all. Even people.
"My person was stolen by someone I cannot surpass. Military rank doesn't give me privilege over nobles, but it does give me raw power, and people who have always been oppressed. Using them, I can ascend and repeal that foolish right of privilege. But make no mistake about me, Miku, I aim to have power. I'll be an emperor who is just as selfish and annoying as any emperor. I'll still fight wars and demand things.
"I still hate the coalition for forcing me off my planet, which led to me losing my precious people. And I know that they don't care either. The council isn't different from the emperor, it just wears different clothes. When I take up those robes, I'll do things that benefit all people, to be sure. But that is still selfish, since I still view myself as one of them. I'll be a better ruler, but I'll be a monarch nonetheless."
Miku didn't respond. Alquin wondered what she thought of his small tirade, but the thoughts swimming in his head told him to stop and think of future plans. For her part, Miku seemed to be lost in thought. She looked into the air for a bit. She then closed her eyes and smiled. She looked at Alquin, and then smiled again.
"I'll try to understand. But I won't give up."

Chapter 7

A young woman smiled as she watched the screen. She saw the image of Alquin accepting his award from the emperor, and clapped wildly.
"What are you doing?" asked a boy who had just entered the room. He was in his late teens.
"Look Lance! It's Alquin Tor Rinard," she said.
"Who? Oh, another general. Whatever. I want to go somewhere," Lance said.
"After this," she said.
"No, now," Lance said, and then stood in front of the screen. The woman jumped up and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Move, please," she said while pushing against him softly.
"No. This isn't important, you can watch it another time."
"I want to see him live! You can let me have that at least, can't you?" she asked.
"Him? What's so great about some general?" Lance looked over his shoulder. He then turned his entire body. "Him! This is what you're watching?"
"He's doing well, isn't he?" The woman pushed Lance again, and this time he moved sideways.
"Him," Lance said. He stared at the screen and silently watched. After Alquin was off-screen, he spoke again. "You're not allowed to watch anything, anymore."
"You can't say that."
"I can, and I say it. I won't put up with disloyalty." Lance gave the woman a cold stare.
"I was never loyal to begin with."
"Shut up. You will be, whether you like it or want to or not. But you will be. And you will like it and want to," Lance said.
"You don't control my thoughts."
"I do. I bought that right fairly! You're mine and you'll do as I wish!" Lance stamped his foot. The woman took a small step back.
"Lance, you really want me, don't you?" the woman asked in a sweet voice. Her look had softened, and the edges of her lips curled upwards. Lance felt his body relax. The woman's soft gaze dissipated his anger.
She placed a hand on his face and moved a little closer. She said, "You're young, passionate. You know what you want and you have the power to take it. You have me. You wanted me. You want to keep me here, forever, don't you?"
"Yes," Lance said quietly.
"You're not very honest in expressing that. You lash out. You don't mean to, do you."
"No."
"I'm not here to condemn you." She lowered her hand and took a step back. "But I'm not yours, and I never will be. Your father stole me from Alquin. You know that. You despise Alquin because I'll never love you like I do him. And you cannot change that. You're a spoiled child. I have no power, no one to spoil me. My engagement to you is out of my control. Your father forces me to comply. And you, you stupid child, I don't hate. But I won't love. And I'll never be yours."
"Charlotte. I hate you," Lance said while tears formed at the corners of his eyes.
"And love me."
Lance turned and walked to the door. He turned around once and nodded his head, and then left the room.
"Alquin, Relos, I'm still here. I can only watch from a distance. I'll never meet you again. But I can still watch you. Thank you for putting yourself out there. I see it. Thank you," Charlotte said. "I wish Relos had a chance to be on screen as well. Alquin, you hog it too much! Let Relos up there once in a while!"
 
"Man, that was boring," Kelin said.
"Oh dear, you just don't get excited about battle the way you used to," Teena said.
"That's because I save it all for you," Kelin said.
"Ahem!"
"Save it for later," Teena said. Kelin nodded and then grinned.
"Sir," Yue said.
"Don't continue that. Disciplining them won't help," Genbu said. He sighed lightly.
"Another fleet approaching. Twenty capitol ships, three hundred cruisers," Kelin said.
"Any change?" Yue asked.
"Not at all. Fish in a barrel," Kelin said.
"How far are we?" Yue asked.
"Fifty-thousand kilometers till we're in a spot clear enough to jump. Then it'll be a matter of cleaning up," Teena said.
"Yes yes, I'll finish the dishes soon enough, dear," Kelin said.
"Don't forget the trash too," Teena said.
"Coalition forces are breaking up," Genbu said.
"Jump when you're sure, Teena," Yue said.
"Aye sir. The relay emitters are all synced and ready to go. Kelin, fighters in. Ready to stop firing?" Teena asked.
"Recalling the last of them now. Missile defenses ceasing. Blasters will be down on your mark. Ready for the field. Is this really going to work?" Kelin asked.
"It'll work. There's no better time to test it than when running away, right?" Genbu asked.
"Ready," Teena said.
"Same," Kelin said.
"Let's go. And hope this works."
The ship started to hum. Yue could feel the slight vibrations that resonated through the ship. The screen that showed the outside of the ship went blank. The humming stopped for a moment, started again, and then stopped completely. Yue suddenly felt dizzy and nauseous.
"We're out. Total time was eighteen seconds, but only a fraction of a second was spent in relay space, as expected. It worked, sir," Kelin said. He then sat back in his chair and held his head.
"It feels stranger than normal relay movement," Genbu said.
"It's only to be expected. We were in normal space hundreds of times, recalculating our position at each jump. Physics is just catching up to us," Teena said.
"Dismissed for now, I think we should all lie down. It's not as though anyone will catch up to us. Three light-weeks away from the nearest relay, at least. And they'd still have to know where we are in the first place," Genbu said.
The room emptied quickly, except for a few operators that needed to stay at their posts. Yue headed for the cafeteria. He was still dizzy, but the nausea had left. Normally their success would be cause for celebration, but circumstances weren't the best.
Yue ordered a simple meal with an orange at the side, and then took a seat at a random spot. He looked around and watched several others who looked slightly sick. The jump, the first of its kind, was taking a toll on everyone. It would take a few more jumps before anyone would get used to the strange pulls it induced.
"Mind if we sit here?" Kelin asked. Yue turned to greet him and Teena.
"Sure."
"So, commander, what do you think of our precious Zeick now?" Kelin asked. He was smiling widely with the silliest grin.
"She's amazing. To think that a ship with relays built into it could use them like that, it's incredible," Yue said.
"He is. Zeick is a he, not a her," Kelin said.
"Oh just ignore him. Just because everyone always calls ships females, he thinks he has to qualify this one as male," Teena said.
"Either way is odd," Yue said with a smile. Kelin laughed and nodded.
"Yes, you're right! But even if it is or isn't, Zeick is still male. Right Teena?" Kelin asked.
"Yes, that's true."
"But didn't you just say something different?" Yue asked.
"No. I said he thinks he has to qualify this one. Of course, Zeick is male, so it doesn't matter if Kelin qualifies him or not. Right, Zeick?" Teena patted the table a few times.
"Okay," Yue said with a straight face. Kelin and Teena laughed at Yue for a while.
They ate and spoke for a while, until a newcomer arrived.
"Commander Yue! My respects!"
"Thank you. Cadet, is it?"
"Yes sir. Tim Vale, assigned in engineering. I just wanted to offer you my loyalty in person. I speak on the behalf of the rest of engineering as well," Tim said.
"Thank you. I know I've put you all in a tough situation," Yue said.
"Think nothing of it, sir. Here on the Zeick, we're a giant family. And this family knew it was unfair of the higher-ups to try to stamp you out. We'll support you, the entire family will. Even if we are several thousand, we're mostly in support. I've long-heard of your amazing exploits," Tim said.
"He's humble, too," Teena said.
"Thank you, really. It's reassuring, even if I still fear a mutiny may erupt. We did disobey the council, refuse orders, fire on our own men, and steal coalition property. I'm liable to be executed as a traitor, should we be stopped," Yue said. He sighed while shaking his head. "I didn't want to do that. None of this should have happened."
"It's not your fault. Everyone, even those who don't know you, don't think you're in the wrong. It's politics, and we're sick of it," Kelin said. "But we're special. We run Zeick. We possess power that the council thought they controlled. We were actually able to do something about our predicament. I only mourn for our brethren who still have to put up with them."
"He's right. They had no right to strip you of your rank to begin with! It's their fault. Who cares if we are doing something lawful or illegal, it's right versus wrong, and they are wrong," Teena said.
"Maybe not so radical," Yue said. "I still believe the coalition has it right, compared to the empire. We just don't have the right people in power."
"Like you," Tim said.
"No, no, not me. I'm no leader," Yue said while waving his hands and shaking his head.
"Exactly. That's why you are," Kelin said. "You don't aspire for power, you just want to do what's right."
"That's still wrong. I'm not that good. I'm just in a bad situation. I just want to live justly. I wouldn't mind if I was accused for something falsely if I knew justice would prevail and set me free. Without that confidence, I'm just a coward running away."
"I still think you're doing fine," Teena said.
"Thank you. But I'm not. I'm still lost. I've still got the guilt of losing a dear friend to the empire's hands," Yue said.
"We'll get Miku back," Kelin said.
"You know about her?" Yue asked.
"Oh, you didn't know? Genbu didn't just handpick this staff at random. Some were reassigned, but most everyone here knows Admiral Genbu and Miku. Some personally, others because he used to visit Zeick from time to time. He was here for the original launch as well. He's whom several of us have to personally thank. And Miku, well, who could forget her?"
"Kelin!" Teena said.
"Er, right, she's not as pretty as my Teena, but she is a vivid girl. A young, daughter-like girl. That alright, my lovely dear?" Teena nodded. "But we saw Miku several times over the years. She's also quite bright. She and I worked together on some of the basic strategies that Zeick uses in battles. I still remember sitting at the station working on a hypothetical, and she'd just come up behind me and offer a small, short suggestion or question. Every time, it would be just what I needed."
"She still looks over peoples shoulders," Yue said. "And, now that you mention it, she does suggest things so innocuously that you'd think they were your own ideas."
"Exactly!" Kelin said.
"Always," Yue said. Yue's eyes opened widely for a moment, and then he had a somber look. "She's always offered small suggestions on all my major battles. All of them. I didn't think about it until now. All of them. I wonder, what would I be without her? How much did she contribute, and how much of my fame did I make on my own?"
"Yue, what's wrong?" Teena asked.
"I'm beginning to remember too many times of Miku making the perfect small adjustment. I wonder, now, if I'm actually worth the rank that I wasn't willing to give up. Was I worth making this ship full of traitors?" Yue asked.
"Of course. Even if it was her plan entirely, you were the one who commanded it. Don't forget that," Kelin said.
"Maybe," Yue said.
"Leadership is just as important as the plan itself," Tim said. "And you lead well. Doesn't that mean she's a good complement as a strategist? If she really is one, that is."
"What a strange turn of things," Yue said. "Fine. Then that's what we will do. She's valuable, just as valuable as I am, if not more. Now that Zeick is its own free entity, it should have something to do. Let's free Miku!"
 
The final blow to the coalition camp around the third moon of Blatt ended with few casualties for Alquin. The win was swift and glorious, as Alquin had planned. There were still three more minor posts he would need to conquer before he could approach Zeick, but they wouldn't be a problem for the force that Alquin had with him.
More than just needing to win, Alquin needed to command efficiently to keep the loyalty of all the soldiers in his enormous fleet. That preparation was just as important as actually winning the battles. But Alquin didn't have to press for it much. Respect for him abounded among the ranks, especially among the common soldiers. Knowing that he didn't discriminate against class was comforting to the men who were mainly drafted forces.
"Pete, check it out," said Van, a light-haired pilot. He and Pete, another pilot, had gone to the main hall of their ship after battle. Around them were hundreds of other soldiers, all laughing or cursing, drinking, and having a generally good time. The beer flowed and the entertainment was suitable, whether it was a nearby holoscreen or a live band across the room.
"What's up?" Pete asked, and then looked at the holoscreen Van was pointing at.
"Alquin's up again."
"Yeah, what about it? He always gives a small speech after each battle. I don't really care, but some of the other guys are really into it. I didn't think you were."
"A little. He says the right stuff. And then backs it up by actually doing it. But I could do without all the flashy words. Anyways, that's not what I'm meaning, right now. Take a look, notice something?" Van asked, and then pointed at the holoscreen again.
"Yeah, he looks a bit tired."
"Arg! Come on man, check out the chick!"
"Oh? Oh! You're right, there's a woman."
"You seen her before?"
"No, doesn't look familiar. But why point her out?"
"Ever seen him with a woman at his side? Especially in a public broadcast? And just who is she?"
"No. Closest I've seen is Relos being with him. Oh, ha, that's an interesting change. So commander is into women, after all," Pete said while chuckling.
"Ha. No doubts anymore. Though, Relos himself was so woman-crazy. Maybe it finally rubbed off. Shame it didn't happen earlier. A shame Relos died."
"Oh? On second glance, she's my type," Pete said while stroking the hair on his chin, pretending to look thoughtful.
"I say she's more mine. I've spent some time creating a love of Asian girls. Not as many Asian descendants in the empire, after all."
"Oh, so you think the coalition would be a better place to live?" Pete nudged Van in the arm.
"Ha, as-if! They just got more planets that were settled with that kind of diversity. It'd be a different story if the planets we owned were switched. Besides, they are just rarer here, not nonexistent. Bah, why are we talking about our taste in women? Back to the one at hand."
"She's cute. But, you know what, maybe a bit too young for me."
"Pete, you're just afraid of what commander would do if you started moving in on his woman," Van said with a laugh at the end.
"Bah, I need a drink. It's not like I'll even get to board his ship, let alone steal his woman. We'll just keep working here in the second garrison for commander all our lives. Maybe I'll make it to a squad captain someday. Command others to die gloriously, you know?"
"Am I that bad, fellows?" said Griff, the squad captain who had walked up to the two men without them knowing.
"Sir! Have a drink with us, sir! We'll die just as you ask us to, eventually," Pete said with a hint of mockery. "Thank you for your belief in us, sir!"
"Both behind my back and in my face? Great, just great," Griff said, and then laughed heartily. Van and Pete also laughed, and then placed another order for a round of beer.
"So how's it going?" Van asked.
"Well, you two deserved your current reward, that's for sure. Add another few strikes to your ships; show the coalition you've been through the heat of battle plenty of times. Meanwhile, the strategy meeting was good. We've still got a few battles to go before we get to our target. That's going to be a blast," Griff said.
"So what's the target?" Pete asked.
"I wish I knew. I get the feeling even the captain doesn't know. And if Alquin's broadcasts are any indication, he's not telling either," Griff said.
"Speaking of broadcasts, me and Pete were just admiring the missus that the general seems to have picked up. You seen her?" Van asked.
"A lady friend for Alquin? This I have to know about," Griff said while grinning widely. "Though some of the loyalty he's been earning with me will go down if she isn't a looker. I'm picky, after all."
"Ha. That's just you; you can't force your tastes on others. But I don't think you'll be changing your loyalty. She's a cute one. I'll pull the up the recording. Take a look at the zoom on the girl." Van tapped a few keys underneath the holoscreen, which soon showed Alquin and Miku.
"Oh? She is cute. And I'm not even drinking yet!" Griff said.
"I'd stop being a pilot for a gal like that," Pete said. The other two looked at him, paused, and then all three of them burst into laughter.
"Yeah, right," Griff said. He took a few gulps of fizzy dark liquid, and then took another look at the holoscreen. "Oh? I think I've seen her before. Very familiar."
"You have? Have you met her?" Van asked.
"Ha, now I remember. That's a coalition woman! We had captured a coalition escape shuttle some months back, after the second Exoquis battle. She was the only woman on the ship, I remember seeing the prisoners being escorted off."
"What? A coalition person? What's she doing with Alquin? Why? Isn't that the enemy? He's fraternizing!" Van said while slamming a glass of beer on the table.
"Maybe," Pete said.
"Ha. Ha! No, wait a second. We sent those prisoners back. All but that woman, it appears. You know what that means, right?" Griff asked, a mischievous smile on his lips.
"Ah, that." Pete said. He held up his right hand, made a fist, and then raised a pinky.
"Hey Van, think about it from another way. Our general attracts defectors as well. Quite a charismatic guy, don't you think?" Griff asked.
"Well, if you put it that way, it does seem to make more sense. Maybe she's got some information he can use as well. And, well, she is pretty. Who cares where she's from, right? To Alquin, and his wondrous ability to pull people in!" Van said. The three of them lifted and then clinked their glasses.
"To Alquin!" Pete shouted. The three of them repeated it, clinked glasses, and drank again.
"To Alquin!" Griff shouted.
"To Alquin!" shouted every soldier in the room in a deafening roar of noise and cheers. Together, all of them celebrated the commander they had affirmed their admiration of.
 
"We've finished taking control of the Yenner relay."
"Good. Let's jump the fleet and resupply, briefly," Alquin said.
The operators fulfilled the command, and a moment later the planet Exoquis appeared on the screen. The fleet descended on the planet and restocked supplies as Alquin traveled through the capitol city with Miku.
"Pick whatever you like. Where do you want to go?"
"Home. Or clothes."
"Clothes it is."
They stopped by several shops, each time walking away with two small boxes. The shopkeepers each reacted the same way upon seeing Alquin and his entourage of guards walking in. They paid double whatever the items they took were worth, which the shopkeepers accepted with gratitude and praise for Alquin.
After a while the sun started to set, though on Alquin and Miku's schedule it was still early afternoon. They returned to Alquin's capitol ship, newly named Jaces' Folly. It was a roundabout way of paying tribute to the person Alquin was still benefiting from.
Back on the ship, Alquin met with several commanders in his fleet. A few of them had known Jaces as well, for various reasons. Miku didn't follow him into the meeting, and had to wait outside. Afterwards, they returned to the bridge.
"Welcome back commander. How was the city?" asked one of the operators.
"Good. But as much as I love Exoquis, that city wasn't to my taste. I grew up in another continent. Anyways, prepare for launch. It's still early and I want to make sure we secure the relay we just captured. We still have to move on towards the next coalition stronghold."
"Acknowledged." As quickly as they arrived, they left. The fleet, thousands strong, was a spectacle in the skies of Exoquis. The citizens on the surface both admired and mourned the force that had come and left their planet for war. Knowing that they may never return again, several of the soldiers never left their ships, for fear of forming attachments to people who would be saddened at their loss. It was still Alquin's goal to make sure as many people as possible lived through his missions, but that still only took second place to winning.
The familiar sight of space returned to Alquin and Miku's view, and soon they were in the space surrounding the relay that had been captured. Alquin had the operators set in a course for the next base closest to where the coalition space fortress Zeick was supposed to be stationed, and then left the room, Miku following behind him. They reached the cafeteria, where Alquin got lunch and took a seat.
"So, how much longer are you going to kill off my people?" Miku asked.
"Oh shut up," Alquin said. "Not this again."
"Just kidding. I'm used to it. Being here isn't much different than being there, when it comes down to it," Miku said.
"That's odd. So you're alright with my conquest of your people?"
"I didn't mean that. I mean, either if I'm here or there, people are being caught in the wave of war. Either way, I'm a bystander watching the exact same casualties happen. All I can do is hope you stop."
"Will stopping me do anything? I'm nothing, just a soldier in this war."
"You command people."
"That's not enough. Don't be naive. Or are you doing this on purpose again? What are you eating?"
"Maybe," Miku said, and then briefly stuck out her tongue. "I'm having rice and a mikan."
"That's an orange."
"Same thing."
Alquin grunted and then continued eating. A few soldiers came over and spoke with Alquin for a moment, mostly praise. They left after shaking Alquin's hand several times. Miku had a wide smile.
"You're popular. That's good," Miku said.
"Ha. Are you making fun of me?"
"No, I mean it honestly. It's nice. You're weird."
"You say no, but then continue making fun of me."
"Arg, no, Alquin. Really, I mean it. They like you. You've got a good mix of authority and compassion. It makes people like you. Even if they don't agree with what you're doing, I guess."
"Does that include you, now?" Alquin smiled.
"No, I just said, I guess!" Miku said. Her soft expression disappeared and was replaced by a forced frown.
"Sure. So what do you think about our next battle?"
"You're going after the base on the moon on Elron? Huh."
"That it?"
"It'll be interesting."
"Your eyes say that you know more. So what do you know about Elron?"
"It's a base. That's it. Really. I just thought it was interesting."
"So how would you attack it?"
"I wouldn't, they are my people."
"Assuming they weren't."
"Are you done eating?"
"As soon as you stop changing the subject."
"I'm just leaving." Miku stood.
"Sit down. You aren't free. You will be stopped if you step away from me without permission." Alquin held a communicator up.
"I hate you."
"No you don't."
"Shut up. You can guess at my thoughts all you want, but you aren't right."
"So what do you think of the battle?" Miku stared with her vicious frown for a moment, and then sat down.
"It'll be a complete loss for you if you don't appreciate the power of the long distance blaster, even if it does fire slowly. That's all I'm saying."
"That's enough. Thank you, Miku."
"You don't have anything to thank me for. I don't have to say anything true."
"Sure, you don't. But you don't seem as angry as you're trying to be."
Miku looked at Alquin without speaking. She didn't speak again, no matter what Alquin said. After a while, she left him with his permission. Alquin returned to the bridge to make a few more preparations, and then retired in his room.

Chapter 8

"Take us in close, quickly," Alquin said. He watched the battle progress on the screen and in the holograms.
A group of ships defending the base were quickly overwhelmed in Alquin's sudden attack. Though the battle had several twists and pains, in the end Alquin's forces prevailed, as expected.
However, the coalition base wasn't going to give up without a fierce fight, even when they had been almost completely disabled.
"Send them the option for surrender, again," Alquin said.
"Still the same. They refuse to give up."
"Of course," Miku said.
"Well then we will keep destroying them. Unless you know of a way to get them to surrender."
"They will die sooner than give up. Unfortunate, but that's the fact," Miku said.
"You're not helping."
"I wasn't trying to."
"Sir! Something's appeared on the sensors!" an operator shouted.
"What is it now?"
"It's a space fortress! It just appeared out of nowhere," the operator said.
"It's Zeick," Miku said.
"What? How can it be here? Out of nowhere? That's not possible," Alquin said.
"No, it is possible. Zeick has the ability to create relay space around it and travels through short distances in millions of nanosecond bursts. It's our pride. Although, why it has finally used that ability, I don't know," Miku said.
"So you don't seem to have an issue telling the enemy that secret," Alquin said.
"It's not important. You'd find out sooner or later. It would still take effort to try and replicate it. You better hurry and give some orders. Zeick isn't going to wait while you decimate the base," Miku said. She crossed her arms and smiled with the smug little smile Alquin had become accustomed to seeing.
"Divisions three and four are to finish disabling the base. All other forces are to change targets to Zeick. Six is to defend three and four from Zeick. Formation Beta-Epsilon! Go!"
The empire forces moved forward while they gradually turned, losing fewer forces to the attacks from Zeick than expected.
The base was disabled quickly, allowing the full empire force to turn on the Zeick. Bit by bit, the blasters and missile systems on the Zeick were destroyed, but the empire's loss of ships was building up too quickly to make a difference.
"Blast. If only we had been the ones to attack. This isn't going to work," Alquin said.
"You should surrender," Miku said with a slight smile.
"You know I won't. And you know what that means. You may be going down with me," Alquin said.
"Send the signal. Or let me," Miku said.
"No need. We can turn it around. This force was supposed to take on the Zeick to begin with," Alquin said.
"Sir, they are sending a message," an operator said.
"Looks like they are taking the initiative," Miku said, her smug smile reappearing.
"Play it," Alquin said.
"Sir, it's just text. They request a truce. They aren't here to fight us, just to save the people on the base, they said," the operator said.
"Send them the ceasefire notice. We will stop too, and then ask them why they came assaulting us if they didn't have any intention of fighting us, to begin with," Alquin said.
"Message sent," the operator said.
"Of course they would. You were already attacking. They had to defend our allies," Miku said.
"Sir, they sent a response. And the firing on all ships has stopped, both sides," the operator said.
"Good. Send a message to all allied ships. Make sure they keep the Zeick in their sights. Prepare use of reactionary weaponry, just in case. They are not to fire without my command, but they should be prepared for the Zeick to betray us," Alquin said.
"You wouldn't fire on them during a truce, would you?" Miku asked. She sounded extremely concerned.
"No, I wouldn't. I just won't be betrayed by people who already are enemies. And it wouldn't succeed anyways. You know as well as I that the problem with reactionary weapons is that they are bulky and easy to intercept, more so than regular missiles. But it's just in case, you never know what kind of general we could be dealing with," Alquin said.
"He's probably a good general. The Zeick has a lot of good people who wouldn't listen to a bad person, really. I think you should wait and listen," Miku said.
"Sir, the reply has been received. They said that aren't part of the coalition! This is strange. Sir, it reads: 'Commander of the empire forces attacking the coalition base. This space fortress is under the control of a certain group of rebels. Though we are no longer affiliated with the coalition, we cannot let you simply kill of those who would be, or were, our allies. All sides so far have lost forces to our meaningless battle. Can you please stop your assault on the base?' That's all, sir," the operator said.
"A group of rebels?" Miku and Alquin asked in unison. Alquin smiled, while Miku frowned.
"What kind of rebel could take over the Zeick?" Miku asked.
"A smart person, I'd bet," Alquin said.
"A rebel that deserves to die," Miku said.
"Oh? Such vehemence. Maybe one of your allies has seen the folly of your nation's ways," Alquin said. "And just happened to convince several thousand other people that he was right."
"Bah. Zeick was full of several great people. I know them. It must have been taken over by a group in a sly takeover. That must be it," Miku said.
"Operator, send them another message. I'd like to speak with the commander, if possible. Convince him to join us, if possible," Alquin said.
"Sir, the reply said that they aren't interested in joining the empire. They want to end the war completely between both sides. That's it."
"Ha, what an interesting thought. I think so too. Send them a request, I want to speak face to face, or screen to screen in this case," Alquin said.
"Acknowledged."
The Zeick commander agreed, and soon a link between the two forces had been formed. A moment later, the face of Yue Fei appeared on screen, much to Miku's surprise.
"Lies, all lies," Miku said. "Lies that are supposed to make me feel good. That can't be Yue! Don't toy with me!"
"Miku?" Yue's image asked.
"Oh, so you know each other?" Alquin asked. Miku looked up at the image, then turned away and rushed out of the room.
"We do," Yue said, calmly. He looked sideways for a moment and opened his mouth slightly, but then closed it.
"I won't ask, for now," Alquin said. "Instead, there is business ahead of us. What do you say? Join me?"
"I thought I already replied to that," Yue said. "We aren't going to ally with either the coalition or the empire."
"That's fine. I'm not asking you to join either. I'm asking you to join me. You're a rebel of the coalition, aren't you? Then why not?" Alquin asked.
"There's more to it. I'm not a rebel of the coalition, really. Technically, yes. But let's not discuss semantics. I just want us to stop fighting each other, and to change things."
"I agree. I want to change things, too. Do you think we can meet and speak, in private? There are things I cannot say over this connection."
"No. We will be taking our leave. I've had enough of your tactics. You're Alquin, aren't you? The battle at Exoquis is enough to make me want to avoid you," Yue said.
"I am. And you are? You know Miku, so I want to know," Alquin said.
"I'm no one really important. My name is Yue Fei. I hope we don't meet in battle again," Yue said.
"As do I. We could get along, I think," Alquin said.
"Maybe, in another time. After the war is over. Discuss tactics of bygone days. But for now, we should think of each other as foes. I don't know when one of us will attack the other again. It may be necessary, in the future. Maybe, maybe we could avoid it. But I cannot risk it, for now. I apologize," Yue said.
"I suppose, if that's how you feel. Then I will say goodbye. I hope we meet on better terms, one day. Not like this battle," Alquin said. He then saluted Yue, who returned the gesture.
"Thank you. Even though we've faced each other, we aren't at odds now, and for that I thank you. Hopefully we won't have the same type of dreadful confrontation that we had before at the second Exoquis battle. As your spoil, it appears you've taken Miku. I trust she's in good hands. Tell her I'm sorry. And that Genbu is here with me. Goodbye, Alquin," Yue said.
The transmission ended before Alquin could say another word. He took a moment to process what Yue said.
"Hail him again! I need to ask him something! Now, hurry," Alquin said.
"Sir, they are gone. They just disappeared," an operations person said.
"Blast. He was at Exoquis. He was in the second battle. Miku! Miku will know," Alquin said. With that, he rushed out of the room.
 
When Alquin exited the bridge, Miku was sitting in the corridor. Alquin stopped rushing and walked up to Miku slowly. He put a hand on her shoulder.
"Hey," Alquin said.
"Go away," Miku said.
"Did Yue fight against me at Exoquis? Was he the one that had come out of the relay towing rocks?" Alquin asked.
"Yes," Miku said.
"So it was him. Blast," Alquin said.
"Was it really Yue, was he really the one there?" Miku asked.
"As far as I know. I've never seen the man before," Alquin said.
"Did you like him?"
"I did. But that was then."
"Yue Fei! Why, a rebel? Why Zeick? What happened?"
"Before you go too far in your grief, he told me to tell you something. Something about him being sorry. And that Genbu is with him."
"He is? Then it really was Yue. Then something is going on. Okay." Miku shook her head, and then slowly stood up. She flipped her hair back, looked at Alquin, and gave a smile. "Did they really say they are rebels?"
"Apparently. But then he said he wasn't. He wouldn't join me. He said he isn't part of either the coalition or the empire. It was a strange encounter."
"Then there has to be something more going on. Something that would make or force him to do that. But at least now I know why the Zeick is rogue. Both of them. I may not know the reason, but I'm sure it's something I can accept."
"You're fine with that person rebelling against your country?"
"He must have a reason."
"And yet you care if I fight against the coalition."
"That's different."
"How?"
Miku didn't respond. She didn't know if Alquin was right or not. She didn't know if she was a hypocrite for changing her views once someone she knew was involved. Really, she thought, what was the difference? Other than the side, and the learned hatred for the other side, what was different about being on the empire's side, she wondered.
"I can tell you, then. The difference is the label. That which labels me man, you woman. The label that says I'm of the empire, you are of the coalition. The label that says your friend is a rebel for disobeying his system, and me a traitor for plotting against my emperor. Now, what label do you want, for yourself? One that hasn't been defined by someone else."
Alquin took a step back, and then walked away. Miku thought about what label she wanted to have for a moment, and then started walking in the direction Alquin had gone. She was brisk and caught up to him momentarily.
"And?" Alquin asked as he reached Miku's room.
"Thank you," Miku said.
"For what? Did you think of one?"
"No, and I likely won't. But thank you, anyways. You've given me something to think about."
"Is that all? No conclusion, but a thought anyways?"
"Can’t you just accept my thanks?"
"As long as I don't know what is hidden behind it, I'm not sure if I should."
"Sincerity."
"Then, thank you, as well." Alquin smiled in a way he hadn't for a while. Miku noticed.
"Good, this is good. And now we won't have to fight, also."
"But I rather enjoy teasing you."
"Not that! I mean, now you won't have to fight the Zeick or Yue since they aren't part of the coalition anymore."
Alquin took a moment to realize the implications of what Miku was saying. Now that the Zeick was not just mobile, but also out of coalition hands, there was no way or reason for him to attack it. His orders couldn't be completed.
"No, this is bad. No, good. It's good after all," Alquin said while a smile formed at the corners of his lips.
"Yes, it's great, isn't it, Alquin?" Miku asked. She was smiling widely, all traces of her former worry gone.
"But now we have a new problem to deal with."
"There isn't a problem if you don't fight anyone."
"Still with that? But that's not what I mean. The emperor, we have to go back and see him. This time, it will be different."
"Oh, him. Your emperor, how will he react to this news? It’s good, right?"
"It's time to put my plans into action. The emperor's reaction, who can guess? But I fear that I'll be ruined if I don't take the opportunity to ruin him. He doesn't accept the incompletion of orders. No exceptions. This kink in the works is enough for him to deal with me drastically. I think. I'm not sure." Alquin's complexion paled at the thoughts. Miku thought about what to say, but didn't have any words of encouragement. She still didn't know the details of Alquin's plans, but could only hope that they would succeed. Alquin, seemingly stuck in thought, left Miku after saying a brief goodbye. Miku entered her room, her mind full of questions about what was going on.
Miku sat on a bed, and stared at herself in the mirror across the room.
"The emperor might try to take Alquin's life before he can deal with that man. I hope that doesn't happen. I hope he succeeds," Miku said aloud to herself. She opened her mouth again, but caught herself. She realized what she just said. She had been hoping for Alquin's success, and she didn't know why. He was supposed to be her enemy, her captor, and yet for some reason, she hoped for his success. She couldn't tell whether it was because the emperor himself was a threat to both of them, or if it was for other reasons.
"Tell me," she said to the mirror, "why did I think, no, why do I think like that? He is an enemy, right? Or was he then, and not now? Does it even matter? What is an enemy? Tell me. Or have I changed?"
She stood and walked over to the mirror, and then placed a hand on it.
"I did change. I've been here so long, maybe that's why. I should leave. But what will happen to Alquin if I do? That's a ridiculous thought; nothing will change if I'm here or not. But I want to think that I matter. Why? No, I won't answer that." Miku dropped her hand and fell into the bed, her mind a mess of thoughts that she tried suppressing. Some gradually made their way to the surface, telling her of truths that she hadn't realized before, and desires that had become new.
 
"Sir, are we really just going to leave?" Terv Rend asked.
"Yes. Our objective was to take down the coalition space fortress Zeick. Now that we are unable to find it, never mind the fact that it's no longer part of the coalition, we will be unable to complete our mission," Alquin said. "Operator, set in a course for the nearest relay, and from there, we will go to the capitol."
"Sir, can I speak to you in private?" Terv asked.
Alquin sighed, but eventually led Terv out of the bridge and into a meeting room.
"Speak," Alquin said.
"Are you going to rebel?" Terv asked.
"Why do you think that?" Alquin asked. Terv was someone he liked, but he hadn't told him of his plans to rebel, even though several commanders under Alquin already were aware.
"I've heard a certain rumor among the men. Not the commanders. It's among the soldiers. I thought it was just rumor, but this sudden abandonment of our duties makes me question it further."
"And if it's true?" Alquin asked.
"I would not support it. So please tell me it's just a rumor."
"What kind of family do you come from?"
"What does that have to do with any of this?"
"Terv, where are you from?"
"The capitol."
"You're a direct subject? That's a surprise. Well, maybe not, considering."
"Sir, answer the question. You're avoiding the issue, which only serves to increase my suspicion."
"A capitol person. So you wouldn't have much experience with the going-ons of the outside planets. You're part of the elite. That's why you're going for an officer at such an age, isn't it?"
"Shut up! I got here on my own, through no part of my family’s lineage! I do what I want because I want to, not because of what they said. Now answer, Alquin Tor Rinard! Are you a traitor to the Ingrid?"
"Oh, so you just happened to get into a high position through your own merits? I've got your file. No part of it says you're particularly outstanding. But all your teachers provided the necessary recommendations for you to enter the officer program. That's all. And you think they weren't influenced by your family?"
"Blast, this isn't about me, it's about you! You're not older than me by more than a few years, yet you're a step away from admiral! And you're calling me an elite, hypocrite. And you'd be a traitor, of the worst kind, if you're going to turn your back on the empire that has given a youth elite like yourself so much. You're going to bite the hand that feeds you?" Terv's face was flushed red, and his fists were clenched.
"You don't know how I got to this position. I spent my years differently from you. I'm an orphan, enrolled in a military school from the day I was forced off Exoquis, the only way for me to survive back then. Yes, I grew up with an ounce of privilege in the military program. But I only got to this position by taking command of a ship I served on when it was damaged in battle. I was just a cadet on a fleet command ship, when the general and his executive officer were killed in the coalition attack. They hadn't planned on possibly dying, therefore the entire fleet was in disarray without any commander. I abandoned my station at that time and took command. We turned that battle around under my direction. That's why I got to my position of power, the one I have today. I'm worthy of it, and I've proved how and why I am. How about you?" Alquin sat back with a smug look on his face. Terv, after hearing the brief explanation, had calmed down a bit.
"I'm sorry. I think I've overreacted. You've never said you were going to rebel, I've been presumptive," Terv said. Alquin chuckled.
"This and that have nothing to do with each other. I just want you to know, you're viewpoint is limited. Let me continue, for a moment. You'll see what I mean, eventually."
"Okay, I'll listen. I will not forget that those above me have things to teach me," Terv said, his voice hinting at flattery. He worried about Alquin disliking him since he had accused Alquin without knowing anything more than a rumor and a festering suspicion.
"When I was still in military school, I met Relos and a girl named Charlotte. I don't need to tell you about Relos, but Charlotte is the girl that I loved. However, she was simply common. She didn't have the luxury of family, either. Not one that cared about her anymore, that is. But she is beautiful. One day, an aristocrat saw her and took her. Being rich and noble, which is all that matters in the empire, with this emperor, the law was on his side. He took my love for his own interests, for his son's interests, and forbade me from seeing her. To think, unmarried people are nothing better than slaves!"
"I'd heard of it, but I didn't think it was prevalent. I'm sorry for your loss."
"Is that it, Terv? Think it's not prevalent? Do you even care that it happens?"
"Bad things happen all the time. But this isn't particularly horrible. She had no family, no husband. Even if it was against her wishes, isn't she in a better place now, even if she serves others indefinitely?"
"You!" Alquin slammed his hand on a table, and then stood up. "Right, that's right, she's not with me, so she's better off! Maybe she doesn't love me anymore; maybe I don't love her anymore! And if either were true, it still wouldn't change that she needs to be freed! Yeah, that's right, Terv. I'm a traitor. I'm going to overthrow that emperor and all his predecessors who said that the only law of the land was that those who were given power are superior to the rest. That's wrong! Absolute power should only be used by those who recognize the need for people to be respected, individually! I'm going to be the one to change that!"
"You are a traitor," Terv said, and then stood up. He went for the door of the room. Alquin stood in place and didn't move. Terv took another look at Alquin, and then turned to leave the room. The door opened.
"Something the matter, sir?" There was a group of guards outside the door, guarding it from intruders.
"He's a traitor," Terv said.
"He doesn't want to join," Alquin said.
"Oh, okay," a guard said. He snapped his fingers, and three of the other guards surrounded Terv.
"What are you doing? Don't touch me! Let go! He's a traitor to the empire," Terv said.
"Gag him while you're at it," Alquin said.
"Alright, sir. A shame, Terv. We were hoping you would support the commander," a guard said.
"What?" Terv asked, and then he was gagged.
"Before you imprison him, one more thing. Terv, other than my commanders, certain soldiers of merit, and certain discontent entities, who do you think I first informed of my plans to rebel? Those who would guard me, of course. You're probably the only person on this ship who wouldn't listen to me, at this point. Blame your own ambition."
Terv was led away, kicking and trying to scream through a gag. Alquin could only sigh afterwards. He had sincerely hoped that Terv would see his view.

Chapter 9

"I don't know what the future holds. But I'll keep battering the threads of time until they resemble my vision of history."
"Feeling philosophical at a time like this?" Miku asked. She flashed a smile, which Alquin didn't feel like returning.
"Don't you have any last words?" Alquin asked.
"I don't expect you to go down. I won't need them," Miku said.
"Good, that's good. Get ready, or it will take you by surprise," Alquin said.
"I got it," Miku said.
"You aren't complaining. I'd think you wouldn't want to be in the midst of things," Alquin said.
"You ask that like you mean it. I'm being forced to be there, or I would be, either way, right?"
"Yes."
Alquin open the car door and took a step out. A moment later, Miku followed him. They were on the capitol planet of the empire, in the same area that they had visited not long ago. The mood, however, was entirely different than before. There wasn't a public audience, and the media was limited to government-controlled puppets. Official empire soldiers abounded, forming lines at the sides of the walkway. Farther behind them were additional units and soldiers, many of which had taken place at the perimeter of the grounds.
Alquin followed the lines as directed with Miku in tow, and eventually they ended up standing next to a line of other military persons, each of them wearing a concerned look.
Then they waited. Another few people arrived and took their places in line after Alquin. Each wore the same grim expression.
"His greatness, the emperor, has arrived!" said a pompous-looking official.
The emperor appeared, surrounded by a group of guards. His face was solid and stoic, but his eyes pierced every person seen.
Miku shivered when the cold stare hit her. She looked at Alquin, expecting a look of trepidation, however there was none. Alquin stared at the emperor without being phased, and then a small smile appeared.
The emperor sat in his chair and relaxed into it. The guards lined up at the sides, all looking fearsome and solid.
"Captain Arnes to approach," an official said. At his behest, the first man in the line of people took his place in front of the emperor and bowed.
"You're demoted and reassigned. You'll be part of ground assault forces from now on. Permanently," the emperor said. Captain Arnes shuddered, but whispered words of thanks.
Alquin sighed at the sight of the man accepting his fate so willingly. It was effectively a death sentence. Ground assault forces never lived long, and always died in gruesome ways. The best the ex-captain could hope for would be to be killed instantly by an enemy rifle. The man wasn't young either, making the punishment just that much more severe.
"Lieutenant second-class Tapp, lieutenant first-class Gene, and sergeant Lines, approach," the official said.
The group of three, the only three in front of Alquin, made their approach. They went as close as they could to the emperor, which was about twenty feet, and stood straight.
"Kneel before his greatness," the official said. The three men didn't budge. "I said to kneel!"
"Never," Tapp said.
"Insolent rebel!" the official said. He took a step forward.
"Stop," the emperor said. The official took a step back without a word and bowed his head.
"You three have defied orders. You're to be executed. Nothing further. Take them aside. I wish to witness this later," the emperor said.
"Defied? Defied orders? Ha, you call such atrocities orders? We are loyal subjects of the empire, but we have morals. And just because one man acted on his morals doesn't mean we should murder him! The captain was wrong! Our mutiny was well-deserved in the face of such cruelty. Our loyalty is to the people of the empire, first!" Gene said.
"Obedience is absolute to those with power, in this empire," the emperor said without emotion. He wasn't concerned at all.
The three men we're taken to the side by a few guards. They weren't able to resist in any meaningful way, so they refrained from making much effort at resistance. If anything, they held their heads high as they were led to the place where the emperor would watch their deaths. Before that, there were still people to attend to.
"Alquin Tor Rinard, approach," the pompous official said.
Alquin squeezed Miku's hand once, and then started walking towards the emperor. Miku kept in step beside him. When they stopped, Alquin made a medium bow and kneeled. Miku didn't do either.
"It disappoints me that you are here today," the emperor said. Alquin looked up at the emperor, who was staring with obvious disdain. The emperor looked at Miku, who was still standing, her face stoic. He narrowed his eyes, and then glanced sideways at the official next to him.
"What is this woman's problem, and why did you bring her here? Answer, Alquin!" the official said.
"I can only speak for myself. As for her, I brought her because she is here to observe. She must, I commanded her to," Alquin said.
"Then, why aren't you lowering your head?" the official asked Miku.
"I have no reason to," Miku said.
"All subjects must lower themselves before the emperor! Of course you have reason to," the official said.
"That doesn't apply to me," Miku said.
"Of course it does!" the official said. His face had become redder than before.
"Why are you still speaking? This is a matter between Ingrid's emperor and Alquin, not me and you. How dare you speak after the emperor!" Miku said. Her tone was mocking. She knew the truth about why the official was speaking, but she wanted to rile him about the unspoken order anyways.
The official couldn't respond. He would have, but he feared that by saying anything more he would add to Miku's argument. Instead, he took a step back and looked forward. He had deferred to the emperor.
"Ha!" the emperor said. For a moment, he smiled as well. "Never forget that you too are a fool. Incompetent. But she is correct about one thing, even if she does deserve discipline. This is about Alquin. Do you know why you are here?"
"Last I was here, I was given privilege, which I thanked your greatness for. How can I have any inclination of what to expect at this time, though?" Alquin asked.
"You were given a set of instructions, were you not?" the emperor asked.
"I was," Alquin said.
"Then, have you fulfilled them?"
"I have."
"Oh? You say that, do you? Knowing that the space fortress Zeick was your target, and yet it still lives, you say that you have fulfilled your orders to assault it? Shall I explain why that doesn't work? No, for you have shown you're an intelligent general. So, explain it yourself. Why does it seem that you're words are impossible?"
"The Zeick is no longer a coalition item. We are at war with the coalition, not an independent entity; therefore for all intents and purposes of the war, the Zeick is gone."
"Insufficient. The order was to destroy it, assault it, take it over, whatever it takes to either eliminate it or bring it to our side. Not to let some rebellion in the coalition place it in the hands of traitors! I doesn't matter that it wasn't in coalition hands, your orders were to destroy it at that point! Do you understand?" The emperor slammed a fist on his chair, the second startling burst of emotion that day.
"I see. Apparently, it has been my mistake after all. I thought that saving the lives of several allied forces from destruction in a lengthy battle would be worthwhile."
"You valued the lives of those beneath you. That has cost you. As such, you will be appropriately punished. Alquin Tor Rinard, you are stripped of all military rank, and will be assigned as manual labor, somewhere, for the next five years."
"But that's too harsh! He's a general of such high rank, and you're demoting him for something so small! Why?" Miku asked.
"I don't answer questions. Be thankful I spared his life," the emperor said.
"His ways are absolute," Alquin said. "That's correct, isn't it? That no matter what, the emperor is to be obeyed? We aren't to make individual judgments about what you think."
"My ways are the only way. You disobeyed. The circumstances surrounding the reason do not matter. If I had deemed them worthy of changing the order, I would have eventually. All generals know this. You were aware that the order wasn't to be rescinded. Yet you disobeyed anyways. I'm willing to pass it off as foolishness, and will let you live. If you learn from the obedience you will have to display to live at the labor camp, then you may still end up being worthwhile to have as a general. I did have hopes for you," the emperor said.
"Normally, I'd ask you to forgive me," Alquin said. Alquin then brought his hand up in salute.
"What?" the emperor asked. His eyes opened widely, and his face reddened slightly. Alquin was standing tall, and his eyes stared at the emperor. There was a light defiance in his face, and he was smiling widely.
"Normally," Alquin said.
"Arrest him!" the emperor commanded. His guards immediately started moving towards Alquin.
Alquin and Miku ran away from each other, Alquin going left and Miku going right. Off in the distance the growing roar of several shouting voices was heard. The group of guards all dashed towards Alquin, ignoring Miku.
"Stop all movement!" Miku said. The guards who had approached Alquin turned to see Miku at the emperor's side. A short knife was in her hand, threatening the emperor's neck.
The sound of several shouting voices turned out to be a large crowd of soldiers, who now had encircled the area en-masse. All were armed.
"You've arrived," Alquin said.
"For Alquin!" they shouted.
"And now for you," Alquin said while turning to face the emperor.
"What do you think you are doing?" the emperor asked calmly.
"Can't you tell? It's called, rebelling. You over there, let those men go."
Tapp, Gene, and Lines were released by the guards, saved from their previous fate.
"Come over here, you three," Alquin said.
"What's really going on?" Tapp asked.
"We don't have much time to speak, but I just wanted to offer you your lives back. I heard enough of what you said earlier to know that you deserve better than what this fool dictates. I don't agree with him. People are people, rich or not. I intend, no, I have, taken over, and will change the rules to reflect such thought. Do you wish to follow me, or do you wish to be executed by the emperor?" Alquin asked.
"Certainly, we don't agree, but how can rebellion succeed?" Gene asked.
"Oh? Who's going to say anything about a rebellion? The emperor has simply had an unfortunate change in personal circumstances, and thus has passed his title to an extremely capable person that he has trusted implicitly. Unfortunately, the emperor will no longer be able to make any public appearances, and may pass away in the next couple years, so all his power has been given to this general. Knowing how absolute and peculiar the emperor was, it's only natural that his successor be unexpected. Isn't this all correct, ex-emperor?"
"Curse you," the ex-emperor said.
"And me," Miku said.
"I should have executed you the moment you dared to hold your head high. You traitors!" the ex-emperor said.
"I'm not a traitor. I cannot betray that which I never belonged to," Miku said in a whisper to the emperor.
 
"Did you hear about it? Can you believe it?" Teena asked Yue. He looked up and smiled.
"I'm not safe from you even in the library, I see," Yue said.
"So you haven't heard? Well, we did just pick it up," Teena said. As she spoke, Kelin and Genbu arrived.
"Has she told you yet?" Kelin asked.
"Told me what? I've been enjoying a book for a while, but I suppose I can be interrupted," Yue said. He closed the thick book and placed it on a table.
"Deer Mountain? Ah, anyways, there has been a revolution," Kelin said.
"In the empire, that is," Genbu said.
"What kind of revolution? Has the government been replaced?" Yue asked.
"No, not that kind. There is a new emperor!" Teena said.
"What? But I thought… just explain before I jump to conclusions," Yue said.
"There is a broadcast in the empire right now, which we have a hold of. It's basically the new emperor introducing himself and explaining that the old emperor is gone. It sounds like a fake story, and likely is. But if he is able to silence the old emperor that easily, then even those who realize it's fake will have to acknowledge him. In a way, the old emperor set himself up," Kelin said.
"The mightiest deserve to rule, right? Someone who wanted to be mightier took over, then?" Yue asked.
"That's just it. His speech ends with a commandment. That authorization has been revoked! All people, regardless of power or riches, are equal subjects. Although, the new emperor seems to have excluded himself from this, but as for the rest of the empire, they are equals," Kelin said.
"Strange. What kind of person is this new emperor?" Yue asked.
"Him. You've met him before," Genbu said. He then brought up a display of the empire's image.
"It's that general. The one who has… Miku! She's there! Alquin!" Yue said. In the display, behind Alquin, Miku could be seen. "What's she doing?"
"At least she is safe, apparently," Genbu said. He had been worrying about Miku for a long time, and the strain on him had been apparent for a while, no matter how much he tried to hide it. But now he spoke with a touch of relief.
"This is definitely the product of a rebellion," Yue said. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
"That's my assumption as well," Kelin said. "The emperor wouldn't simply hand over his empire to a young general.
"There is going to be chaos in the empire," Yue said.
"Those who are hit the hardest by the new emperor's command, the rich, won't stand for this," Teena said.
"You're forgetting something, all of you," Kelin said.
"And that is?" Yue asked.
"The rich have no real power in the empire. If you really think about it, they never have, the emperors just allowed it due to their views on status. But what power do they have when the person who effectively gave them any authority is gone? They were allowed to do what they wanted because there was no one to tell them no. And now there is. They have to accept it. And, it's more likely that all their assets are in government-controlled banks and institutions," Kelin said.
"It's a paradigm shift, then. No matter what, it's a change for the better," Yue said.
"I didn't say it's for the better. It's just a change," Kelin said.
"We should pay our respects. That person, Alquin, he's familiar with us now. Maybe he will stop the war!" Teena said.
"That's a good idea. Let's pay him a visit, if possible," Yue said.
 
"We should strike now, while the empire is struggling," member four said. The other council members mumbled lightly.
"Without the old emperor around, there is little incentive to keep procrastinating. A death-stroke would raise our approval rating," member three said.
"The president is going to attempt diplomacy," member one said.
"Bah, that fool," member six said.
"Peace? After all these decades? Has he forgotten why we are fighting to begin with?" member five asked.
"Haven't we all?" member three asked.
"The economy, of course. And the great tragedy. A shame that something so terrible has become something so profitable," member four said.
"Ha, have you developed a conscious now?" member one said.
"He's up for re-election. As am I. An end to the war would do us well," member three said.
"And let the economy eventually die out? You'll be re-elected either way. It's more important that we continue the fight, securing the nation for our successors," member two said.
"There's no guarantee that it will bubble and burst without a war going on," member three said.
"And has history taught you nothing? Overpopulation, lack of industrial jobs, abundant apathy, just to begin with, have all been remedied! As long as we are consistently using resources, the economy is stable! It's those lapses, those peaceful lapses, that destroyed us in the past. Just think of what will happen to the job market, after being fed by a war effort for decades! It will collapse! We'll have millions of people out of work, all because you want to be re-elected," member two said.
"There is still the matter of casualties. The recent efforts have been particularly terrible failures. The loss of life in the past two years alone has been twenty percent higher than the years before that! The people are getting anxious!" member four said.
"And does it matter? So what if the people complain? They think that simply because they have the ability to voice their concerns something will come of it. Let them vent, then forget. Even if they don't, as long as they know they can speak about it, they think we care! Free press indeed! As long as they can speak of it, they don't realize that there is nothing it will change. Lessons learned from the past. And yet you two are still worried about what the public thinks! Knowing that it doesn't matter! Have you forgotten what really makes elections work?" member one asked.
"You got your positions because the previous three and four were also scared. Don't repeat their mistakes," member five said.
"Alright. I'll place my trust in you men. My apologies," member three said.
"I suppose I can wait and see. This first term has been much more addicting than expected. I didn't want to lose out on having it again," member four said.
"Ha, honest now? Good. Remember, you're on the council, which is much more difficult to mess with than something as flexible as the presidency. He does have to worry about public opinion. And he doesn't acknowledge the war's importance," member two said.
"So what should we do about the new emperor? We could launch an assault, but with the loss of the relay near Blatt, we're going to lose a lot of time. They may be reorganized by the time our forces arrive," member four said.
"We launch the second Zeick-class fortress," member two said.
"It's complete?" member four asked.
"It's undergoing final testing. But it appears that the piggyback function works. We will be able to send an entire fleet without using a relay," member two said.
"So we can end the war quickly, after all," member three said.
"It still has some limitations. One fleet wouldn't be enough, but no more could be taken. It may be in our best interest to seek a temporary truce, and strike when the most gain could be gathered from it," member one said.
"We could acquire the entire empire in one fell swoop. And then use its resources to keep the economy stimulated," member seven said.
"That's also a possibility. Let's discuss this further at the next session. For now, we are dismissed," member one said.

Chapter 10

Lance paced through the room. His face was pale and his steps were quick. Drops of sweat were on his forehead, waiting to fall.
"Lance, are you in there?" Charlotte asked. Lance heard the door-handle turn.
"Don't come in!" Lance said.
"Lance, what's wrong?" Charlotte asked. Lance didn't reply. His thoughts were chaotic and refused to settle.
"Lance? If you don't answer, I'm coming in. You better not be doing anything naughty," Charlotte said. The door opened completely. Lance dropped his shoulders and sighed.
"Charlotte," Lance said. He then walked over to Charlotte and hugged her. He could feel her flinch, but he didn't let go.
"Let go, Lance. Hey, don't!" Charlotte said. She placed her hands on Lance's shoulders and pushed. He only gripped her harder. She gave up and stood rigidly.
"I don't want to lose you," Lance said in a whisper.
"I don't want you to be on me like this. Get off," Charlotte said.
"No, not until you want to be mine," Lance said.
"How stupid!" Charlotte said. She put her hands on him again, and pushed much harder than before. Lance wasn't expecting Charlotte to have so much strength. He fell backwards and landed on the ground. He stayed there and began crying quietly. Charlotte squatted next to him and patted his head. "Sorry."
"Why won't you love me?" Lance asked.
"Why do you keep insisting? I never will. Get used to it," Charlotte said.
"You're supposed to be mine. You're supposed to do what I say, do what I want you to do. And feel how I want you to feel. That's why father bought you for me! Be mine," Lance said.
"Every time you insist, I have to wonder," Charlotte said. "I wonder if you're really just that spoiled that you cannot understand no, or if there is something wrong in your head. No rational person would continue with this charade you keep putting on!"
"There's nothing wrong with me! Just because you think that your dislike of me should make me like you less, doesn't make it true! I love that part of you! I don't care that you're older! You're pretty, you're smart, you make good things, you're strong, and confident, and you know exactly what you want, how to get it, and how to be yourself! I love all those things about you! I think you're wonderful! That's why you have to be mine!" Lance said.
"You love me because I don't love you?" Charlotte asked.
"No! It has nothing to do with how you feel about me, it's everything else! If you would only be exactly the same, but like me, you'd be happy, I swear it! I'd make you happy! And that would make me happy too! Please, Charlotte, be mine before it's too late!" Lance said.
"Too late for what? You own me. It doesn't matter whether I like you or not. I'm yours. I don't like it, but what choice do I have but to accept it? I may not like you, but I watch after you. I may not love you, but eventually I'll have to submit to you. I value my own life, even if it becomes miserable, so I don't have the luxury of escape by death. Tell me, Lance, do you think you could get more out of me if I really loved you? Do you really value my mind? Your actions say you only value my body, even while your lips speak of loving my mind. Don't you see your own hypocrisy? Saying you value my thoughts, when my thoughts are inconsistent with your wants? If you really loved me, you'd let me go."
"But I want you!"
"That's dumb. You don't even know why."
"I told you why! I don't understand what I need to do to make you love me. Can't you tell me that, at least? I can try after that, at least!"
"I won't. There is nothing you can do. It's futile. Resistance to that truth is futile. It won't change. It doesn't matter what you do. It would never matter, whatever you did. Do you understand?"
"There is really nothing I can do?"
"Nothing."
"Then it's over. It's all over."
"What? Did you finally have a change of mind? Do you want to let me go?"
"No. I wouldn't let you go either way. You're right; I would still be able to have your presence. Even without your love, your presence would have been enough. I don't want to let you go. But I have to."
"Still the hypocrite. You won't let me go, but now you say you have to."
"No, I'm not. I wouldn't. Alquin has freed you. I'll show you. You'd find out sooner or later, so there is no point in me keeping you away from media anymore. Watch."
Charlotte watched without word as Lance showed her the relay of Alquin's speech. By the end of it, her hands were over her mouth, and tears had reached the floor.
"Alquin! My Alquin! Ha! Ha! Oh my goodness!"
"You are free," Lance said.
"Is she?" a voice asked. Lance paled, and then looked at the open door. Charlotte turned and stared.
A man took a slow, casual step through the doorway. He was middle-aged, balding, and mustached. But the presence he had was unmistakable. He emanated confidence and power with each movement. He was Lance's father, Spear.
"I am."
"No, make no mistake, you aren't. That little child pretending to be a person of power may have said some pretty words, but nothing will change for you. You still belong to me, eventually to Lance. He cannot free you. If he wishes to, that will have to wait."
"You heard the emperor, this kind of slavery is illegal!" Charlotte said.
"As if legality matters. Nothing has changed; it's just a political ploy."
"Prove it," Charlotte said. She walked up to Spear and glared. A moment later, she had moved to his side and walked out the door.
Spear laughed, and then turned and walked after her. He caught up to her just as she reached the front door of the mansion. She opened the door.
"You won't get far," Spear said.
"Who will stop me?" Charlotte asked, and then continued walking. Spear jumped out the door and looked to the left, and then to the right.
"What are you two doing? Stop her," Spear said to the two men wearing dark sunglasses.
"Sir, you wish for us, your guards, to stop Miss Charlotte, correct?" the guard on Spear's right asked.
"Yes, you fool, stop her!" Spear said.
"Then please pay me for my services," the right guard said.
"Of course! Later, stop her now," Spear said.
"Sir, now, please prove you can pay us. If you can, we'll deeply apologize and stop her," the left guard said. He held out his hand, which held a small card.
"Fine!" Spear said. He reached into his coat pocket, pulled out a similar card, tapped it a few times, and then waved it over the left guard's card. The guard then tapped his card a few times, bringing up a small holographic display.
"Sir, nothing was sent to my account," the left guard said.
Spear paled slightly. He brought up the holographic display on his own card and scanned through his accounts.
"Spear, do you have the ability to pay us?" the right guard asked while holding out his card.
Spear smiled for a moment, and then swiped his card over the right guard's hand. The guard then tapped the card a few times. As he did that, Spear did an about-face and rushed through the mansion's doors. The sound of a heavy lock closing was heard. The two guards each investigated their accounts, and then sighed.
A while later, Spear looked outside. There was a mass exodus of guards, maids, gardeners, and every sort of staff he had employed.
"Father, is this true?" Lance asked. He was holding his card in hand, the holographic display activated.
"What is that?" Spear asked, his voice beginning to tremble.
"One of the staff sent out a mass text message. He said we don't have any money! And the entire staff should vacate! Is it true?" Lance asked.
"It's alright, son. We still have options," Spear said.
"It's true! It's Alquin, isn't it? He froze all aristocrats' accounts! No! Doesn't that mean we are no better than commoners now? Father? Well, father?" Lance asked.
"We can't be powerless!" Spear said. "I have other assets. Other allies!"
"And will they be free assets? What doesn't the emperor control? And will our allies still be independent, able to access funds either?" Lance asked.
"I don't know. Blast, I don't know," Spear said.
"I can answer that," Charlotte said. She had opened a side door with the key she had on her, and had just walked into the room.
"More specifically, I can," Alquin said, walking behind Charlotte. Near him was Miku.
"You! You're Alquin!" Lance said, his voice filled with years of pent-up hatred for the man that Charlotte had preferred over him.
"And you're the brat that tried stealing Charlotte. Along with you spoiled father, always relying on his money," Alquin said.
"What have you done?" Spear asked.
"I've done what you've feared. Your class doesn't exist anymore. There are no longer the rich and the poor, the privileged and the weak. There is only the emperor and his subjects. All of them subjects of equal rank. Without distinction. All under the same control in the same way. My way," Alquin said.
Lance jumped towards Alquin, his fists raised. But a moment later he was on the floor, facing the ground. Three men were on him, holding him down.
"Please don't do that. My guards were here as well. Really, I wish you two no harm. I just wanted to retrieve Charlotte as soon as possible. I would have been here even earlier, had I the opportunity. I'm not going to punish you, though. I thank you, even, for taking care of her all this time. She seems to be well and never endangered, so we will leave it at that," Alquin said.
"Are you just going to leave us here? To rot, powerless and poor?" Spear asked. The thought of losing all privilege and power was too much for him to bear.
"You'll have some assets in your name within the day, and more in the coming week while you begin to adjust to your new life. You'll have work, as well. Though it won't be glamorous, you will survive. You may even do well, and live comfortably, as well as any other empire subject. But you will never achieve the wealth that you had before I took power. No matter how you try or save, it will not happen. Such is the beauty of an electronic community, correct?" Alquin asked without expecting an answer. He smiled, and then turned and walked away.
The guards let Lance go, and followed after Alquin. Lance stood quickly and took a step in Alquin's direction. An arm from him father stopped him. He watched as Charlotte took one look back, smiled politely, then left.
"Why?" Lance asked. He wanted to pursue Alquin and try to convince Charlotte to stay with him.
"Another move, and we would be rebelling against the emperor."
"That's not the real emperor! He stole the throne!"
"And you think that matters? Stupid boy! No, I'm sorry, that's not true. It's all my fault. My fault for seeing that vixen, taking her, thinking that she should be yours. My own stupid fault for creating such a monster without knowing it. I owe the emperor everything, and yet by doing something he would approve of, I caused his downfall, and thus my own. I'm the fool."
Lance and Spear both heaved great sighs, and then fell to their knees. The wailing of ex-nobles and ex-barons was barely audible in the symphony of cheering throughout the empire.
 
Alquin took Charlotte by the hand and led her out of her captor's house. Awaiting them was a line of cars. Alquin opened the door of a longer car, and stood to the side as he waited for Charlotte and Miku to get inside. Eventually Alquin made himself comfortable inside, and then the procession left the property, never to return.
"Thank you, for all of this," Charlotte said.
"It was a given. Are you okay?" Alquin asked.
"I'm absolutely fine," Charlotte said. Alquin laughed slightly. A few moments passed in silence.
"Charlotte? Hi, I wanted to introduce myself. I'm Miku, and I've heard about you from Alquin," Miku said.
"Really? It's nice to meet you," Charlotte said.
"And you. You're just like Alquin said," Miku said.
"And just what has he said about me?" Charlotte asked while smiling playfully.
"You look exactly like he said. And he said you are intelligent, kind, strong, and independent," Miku said. Charlotte glanced at Alquin, who couldn't look directly at Charlotte.
"Oh, so he did, I see. So you did. Alquin, you're too kind," Charlotte said.
"It was only truths and exaggerations of the best kinds," Alquin said, which prompted a laugh from Charlotte.
"I think he's a bit shy now," Miku said.
"I heard that. I'm just not as comfortable when there is a third individual here," Alquin said. Miku's reply was to stick out her tongue. Charlotte looked at the both of them, playfully glaring at each other.
"It's good that you're here, don't listen to him," Charlotte said. "So, if you don't mind me asking, other than your name, who are you, Miku?"
"Oh! Well, it's a bit complicated. How should I explain?" Miku asked.
"She works for me," Alquin said.
"Not true," Miku said. "I'd get paid if I worked for you!"
"True, so you don't. How would we describe your role?" Alquin asked.
"Role? I have one now? Ha! It would be best to say what I really am, wouldn't it, Alquin?"
"Something other than that," Alquin said.
"Fine, how about this? Charlotte, I've lost my freedom to Alquin," Miku said.
"Oh my!" Charlotte put a hand over her mouth and looked at Alquin.
"Don't say things that others will misunderstand!" Alquin said.
"Then should I tell her how we met?" Miku asked.
"Let's not go into that," Alquin said.
"In hearing nothing, it sounds like there is quite a history between you two," Charlotte said.
"It's nothing important," Alquin said.
"It is. But I won't pry anymore. Anyways! I assume he's busy, otherwise he'd be here. When can I see Relos again? I've been missing him. Of course, you too, much more, but I haven't seen him in so long, and he's wasn't on the broadcast with you," Charlotte said.
Alquin looked at Miku briefly, and then looked at the floor. He sighed, and contemplated what to say.
"Charlotte, I don't know what to say," Alquin said.
"Why? Are you not speaking with Relos? Did you have a fight? Or is he somewhere else?"
"That's not it. He's not around, anymore. I'm sorry, I don't know how to approach it better," Alquin said. His face twisted slightly, and his lips turned downwards.
"Not around? What? You don't mean it, do you? Is, is it the war?" Charlotte asked.
"I'm sorry," Miku said.
"No, don't worry. I know that nothing is guaranteed. But Relos, Relos. Why Relos?" Charlotte asked.
"It was my fault," Alquin said.
"No it wasn't. It was mine," Miku said.
"Both of you, it wasn't either person's fault. This happens in war. Alquin, I'm sorry. I know how dear he was to you. He was to me, as well," Charlotte said.
"He'd be glad to hear that. He thought much of you, Charlotte," Alquin said. He had begun to smile softly.
"As much as he thought of any pretty girl," Charlotte said teasingly.
"Ha. But he only went for them after he thought he couldn't have you," Alquin said.
"What? No, that's not right. He was a dear friend to us," Charlotte said.
"That's not all. I shouldn't speak of the dead, but I think I should tell you. He loved you before I did. He just never said it. I did," Alquin said.
"Relos, you strange boy. Why? It is too late, now, to hear that," Charlotte said.
Miku squirmed in her spot. She felt guilty and out of place. She knew that it really was her fault that Relos was gone. She shook her head, knowing that losses were expected in war. She knew it, but knowing the people involved and close to those that were lost was difficult. Even though it was a normal war casualty, Miku couldn't shake the feeling of guilt.
"Alquin, really. It was my fault. I suggested the stones," Miku said, and then she anxiously waited for Alquin's response. She both feared and wanted Alquin to become angry with her, to blame her.
"Stones?" Charlotte asked.
"It was a strategy," Miku said.
"Stop it, Miku. That alone doesn't take the blame," Alquin said.
"But Alquin! I was there, helping," Miku said.
"And I said you aren't to be blamed! That's reserved for Yue Fei, and none other!" Alquin said.
"You're holding Yue responsible? You can't do that! It wasn't his choice!" Miku said.
"Then who do you say I should blame?" Alquin asked, his eyes cold and piercing.
"Just blame me," Miku said while her stomach knotted.
"I can't do that!" Alquin said.
"Just why not? I can take responsibility for your hate and detest. I was part of it; I may have been the first event in a series that caused you to lose him!"
"Just stop with that. I won't blame you, ever," Alquin said.
"And I said why not?" Miku asked.
"Of course he can't," Charlotte said. She was smiling, but her eyes were glossy. "He wouldn't be able to feel that way about you, Miku."
"You don't know anything about this problem, don't say that. Wait, I'm sorry Charlotte, I didn't mean to be that rude," Miku said.
"True, I don't know the cause. But I know that Alquin wouldn't think of you like that. He can't hate someone he loves," Charlotte said.
"What?" Alquin asked. Miku looked like she wanted to echo Alquin's sentiments.
"I'll thank you for freeing me. But I think you and Miku match better," Charlotte said.
"No, you're misunderstanding. She's not, I'm not. Charlotte, everything I've done is for you, everything, just to free you. I've only wanted you," Alquin said.
"All of this was for me? You became a rebel, and then the emperor himself, just for me?" Charlotte asked.
"Yes, all of it, just to get you back," Alquin said.
"Then, I thank you, again. But, I don't think that's true. And if it is, then I cannot accept it. You'll never be mine again," Charlotte said.
"I am yours though!" Alquin said.
"No. You've done everything while thinking of me. But what does that make me? Am I supposed to now carry every hope and expectation you have? You overthrew the emperor for me. As amazing as that is, how can I accept that? How can I have that burden upon me?" Charlotte asked.
"There isn't a burden you need to carry. Charlotte, it was me, all me, doing what I wanted," Alquin said.
"Of course it's a burden. Every time you look at me, you will think of what you had to go through in order to see me again. You had to give up Relos, take the lives of others, plan, and betray. And then you're expecting me to accept all you've done in my name? I cannot bear that. You'll never view me with the same eyes you used to have. I'll always be the one you had to fight for to win. And if you ever regret you actions or mourn the loss of those you loved, you'll view me as the result. And am I good enough to accept that? And by placing all your expectations upon me, what makes your aspiration better than that of the people I was in subjection to earlier?"
"Are you saying all I did was in vain?" Alquin asked.
"Far from it! It was wonderful. But if it is all in vain if I don't become yours, then it was wrong, and completely selfish, no better than the noble that thought I was something to be bought. Before with money. Now, do you want to be someone who thought they could buy me with deeds? Or do you still truly love me? If I don't come with the price tag of an empire, then tell me that. Or would you be willing to take control of the empire for your own dreams and selfishness with or without me?"
"I don't know anymore. Charlotte, must you make this into something so great?" Alquin asked.
"Alquin, if I didn't come with the conquest of the empire, would you have still done it? I may have been your initial motivation, but you'd never have achieved this by thoughts of me alone. Tell me, Alquin, would you have done it?" Charlotte asked.
"Charlotte, I loved you. I wanted you to be free. It was wrong of the mighty to step on the rights of those below them. It had to stop," Alquin said.
"Then, yes," Charlotte said.
"Yes, I would have done it either way," Alquin said.
"Then you can continue without me. I will be eternally grateful, but I cannot accept more than simple love. It's too great a burden. Alquin, I still care for you, deeply. But really, I think you've changed. You've been so in love with the idea of loving me that you don't even realize that you get along with this girl so well," Charlotte said.
"We only fight," Miku said.
"Ha, it didn't look like a fight from my perspective. It looked like a boy and a girl both unable to express themselves clearly. Your views may be different, but there is something nice about how you speak to each other. I've never had that with Alquin. He's more honest with you," Charlotte said.
The car eventually stopped, and the sound of the door opening broke the silence that had accompanied the last leg of the trip.
"Here," Alquin said. He held out a small card.
"Thank you." Charlotte took the card, and then exited the car. The door closed, and then the car started moving again.
"You let her go?" Miku asked.
"I think she was right. I won't need her."

Chapter 11

Alquin and Miku made their way up the steps in the middle of the green hill. To their sides were white gravestones. After walking for a while, Alquin turned and walked up to a certain stone.
"Thank you. I wish I knew you better," Alquin said.
"Who is that?" Miku asked.
"It's Belgard Tor Rinard. Father."
"Ah."
Alquin remained quiet for a while, and then bowed in front of the grave.
"The dead cannot hear us. But even still, I wanted to do this," Alquin said.
He left the grave and then walked farther up the hill. He stopped in front of another gravestone. This time Miku took a look at it, and noticed it was for Relos. This time, Alquin didn't speak at all. He simply stood, saluted, and then bowed. Miku stood beside Alquin, and then dropped to her knees. She bowed deeply.
"Don't do that," Alquin said. Miku stood up and looked at Alquin.
"I should apologize again."
"Don't. I'm not placing that burden on you."
"You can burden me. I don't mind. And I think I deserve it."
"No. You hold none. I cannot do that, or I may lose you like I did Charlotte."
"But, wait, no, we aren't like that."
"Maybe. Come on, let's go back. I still have to bring you everywhere with me. Across time, conquests, and galaxies. Weaving battle to battle, each destruction of every ship and life a spectacular rainbow of colors. Will you keep following me as I create these dangerous rainbows?"
"Do you mean to continue fighting?"
"I do. The path I tread will still be littered with colorful pain. I'm the worst person you could possibly take comfort in. Even though you're stuck, and I won't free you, I will still ask you if you're willing."
"Nothing will change whether I am or not, correct?"
"That's right."
"Then I will. I won't agree with you, but I'll be with you."
"That's not enough anymore. I'll want you to be mine."
"I already am. I was before this."
"I don't mean it like that."
"I mean it how you want it. Because I want it to."
"You still don't agree with me or my aspirations, but you, you're willing to still be mine?"
"What I believe doesn't change how I feel. Alquin, Charlotte is very good at getting people to talk honestly with one another. And being honest with themselves."
"She is. But now, she is the past. Thank you, Miku."
 
"Sir, there is an anomaly. No, wait, it's a ship! It's the Zeick, it's appeared!" an operator said.
"Calm down and put it on screen," Alquin said.
"They are hailing us," a communications officer said.
"Respond and put them on screen."
"Greetings, Mr. Emperor," Yue said. He sat in the commander's chair, and Genbu was visible at his side.
"Daddy!" Miku said.
"Good to see Miku as well," Yue said.
"And you too, Yue," Miku said.
"Daddy? Who?" Alquin asked.
"Me," Genbu said. "But back to the matter at hand."
"Ah. Yes, well, why have you appeared?" Alquin asked.
"We haven't had a chance to greet the new emperor yet. Seeing such a massive fleet take off made me decide I should say hello before you do anything with it and become busy," Yue said.
"In other words, why am I taking an enormous fleet with me, and where, you ask," Alquin said. "I'll answer. To the coalition main planet. To wage war."
"You're going to the main planet directly? Do you intend to win the war within a year?" Yue asked.
"Maybe less. The travel time without the benefit of relays we control will make it take quite a while, but it will be worthwhile once the war is over," Alquin said.
"Indeed. But why wait. Let us end the war now," Yue said.
"Is that a challenge? I admit the Zeick is powerful, but even it would fall quickly before this armada," Alquin said.
"No, let us make peace. The old emperor is gone, and even the reason for the war is disputed. Why continue fighting?" Yue asked.
"There are still reasons yet," Alquin said.
"Will you explain them?" Yue asked.
"No, it would be a waste of time. If you don't mind, I have a long journey ahead. You say you are now a third party, but if you intend to use your ship's ability to warn the coalition of my advance, then I will take you down now," Alquin said.
"If I cannot stop it, then what choice do you give me?" Yue asked.
"Yue, please, help us end this. Even if Alquin is wrong, his way will end the war fastest," Miku said.
"Miku? What happened? Are you supporting our bloodshed?" Yue asked.
"No, but I'm powerless to stop you or him either! I want it over, all of it! If you prepare or assist the coalition, more people will die than before. It will be prolonged. It might not end!" Miku said.
"Dear, please, we don't want there to be any fighting at all," Genbu said.
"But will either the emperor or the council listen?" Miku asked.
"Maybe, or maybe not. But the president and Alquin may be able to come to an agreement," Genbu said.
"And what of the people? Those who remember their fallen comrades, brothers, sisters, best friends? On both sides? How will they stop? I'm asking because I don't know what will appease them, even though I want peace to be bloodless as well! Tell me, what will stop their hatred?" Miku asked.
"If we can just implement peace, then the issue will eventually be resolved. You're talking about issues that will come after that. We should wait till it's peaceful first," Yue said.
"I wish I could be that optimistic," Miku said.
"And it still doesn't mean I'll change my mind," Alquin said.
"So I cannot, after all. Then I will just have to do my best to mediate later. In case you are right about winning with the least spilling of blood in the quickest way, I will not inform the coalition. But I won't sit back forever," Yue said.
"I'd expect nothing less," Alquin said.
"Ha! Well, now that the business is out of the way, how about a drink before the battle? I still want to meet you, in person, Alquin," Yue said.
"Ah, as tempting as that sounds, how do you think we could possibly meet, when I know you know about my previous tactics in war? I wouldn't want to be caught at the end of my own trap," Alquin said.
"Easy enough, actually. Poor Gim, he didn't think of it, and it cost him so terribly. We will each send a small ship to meet at a distance from our respective forces. I will board your ally's ship, where they can make sure I'm safe, and then they can bring me to you. I swear to you, I'm doing this honestly, I don't wish to harm you," Yue said.
"But I may wish to harm you," Alquin said.
"The Zeick will make sure that isn't in your best interests, whether that means I'm retrievable or not. Acceptable?" Yue asked.
"It's mad, but I'll accept," Alquin said.
The transport went as Yue described with no sudden attacks. Soon he and Genbu were exiting their transport and meeting Alquin and Miku in the hallway.
"Daddy, Yue!" Miku gave each of them a large hug. Genbu was smiling and appeared like he could cry, though he wouldn't.
"You look well," Genbu said.
"I'm well, I'm very well," Miku said.
"That's good. How has the empire been treating you?" Yue asked.
"Alquin sees to my every need. They take care of me very well," Miku said.
"Anyways, would you both care to come with me, to somewhere we can relax? A hallway isn't the best," Alquin said.
The group moved to the lounge, and took seats while the other empire staff looked on with confused faces. They swiftly served drinks the moment Alquin commanded it.
"Quite a nice ship. I haven't been inside an empire ship before," Yue said.
"That's unfortunate," Alquin said.
"Ha. Quite so. I imagine I'd be in a quite different place had I been on an empire ship before this. How about you, ever been on a coalition ship?" Yue asked.
"Never one that was still under coalition control, but yes," Alquin said. "Not quite as aesthetic as I'd wish."
"To each his own, then," Yue said.
The group exchanged a few more pleasantries and talk of random military affairs before turning to a more serious tone.
"So, Mr. Emperor, what is your objective? Why are you still fighting?" Yue asked.
"The objective? Nothing too grand, just the usual. The only difference is that I'll end it, one way or another," Alquin said.
"The usual?" Genbu asked.
"Conquest and control. I'll have the universe under my hand, and only mine. Complete domination," Alquin said.
"That doesn't match well with the idea of freedom that you proposed when taking over the empire. You eliminated status distinctions, didn't you?" Yue asked.
"I've been wondering that too," Miku said.
"I already told you that, Miku. You should understand by now. I'm not full of idealistic nonsense about freedom from oppression meaning the same as self-governing. True, our history has been stained with terrible examples of despotism leading to tyranny and complete oppression, but those aren't the rule, just the usual," Alquin said.
"I still cannot agree with that. Even with the best of intent, it's almost inevitable that it will be abused, somehow. But let's stop, we aren't here to discuss politics and government. We can just relax for a bit and then be on our way," Yue said.
"Yes, of course," Alquin said. "That does remind me; I wanted to ask you something."
"Go ahead," Yue said.
"Did you command the second battle at Exoquis? The one where you exited the relay with a very unique strategy?" Alquin asked.
"Yes, that would be me," Yue said.
"So you were," Alquin said. Alquin didn't mention anything more about it, so a couple minutes of silence passed.
"Speaking of old battles, I think we've seen each other in a few in the past. But rather than speak of such terrible things, I think it's best we get on our way. We've taken enough of our time," Yue said.
"That's fine. I've enjoyed this small reprieve. I'll ask about some prior battles to see if I can find the ones we were in together. Any hints?" Alquin asked. He and the rest stood up and began shaking hands.
"My most memorable battles would be at Helt, Jenes, and Tindal," Yue said. Alquin's grip on his hand tightened for a moment.
"You wouldn't happen to have commanded a small detachment at the time, would you?" Alquin asked.
"I did. Disruption tactics. Not exactly as glorious as commanding a full fleet, but I've done what I can," Yue said.
"Jenes and Tindal, we've met. Blast, I've hated you for a long time. A long, long time. I congratulate you on being so infuriating. But it would be best you left quickly," Alquin said, his tone tinged with anger.
"I hope we don't meet on the battlefield again," Yue said. He saluted Alquin, and then took a step back. He and Genbu started walking towards the door, ready to be escorted back.
"What are you waiting for?" Genbu asked. He had turned around.
"Excuse me?" Alquin asked.
"That was for Miku. Come on, what are you waiting for?" Genbu asked.
"What do you mean?" Miku asked.
"Let's go," Genbu said.
"Ah," Miku said. She then looked at Alquin. "I don't know what to say."
"What do you mean? Aren't you going to come back with me?" Genbu asked.
"She cannot," Alquin said. "She isn't free to go. She's my prisoner."
"What? She isn't military. Besides, we're on satisfactory terms, aren't we? Let me take my daughter back," Genbu said.
"No, daddy. I'm not going back," Miku said.
"I'm sure we can work something out. You don't have to stay here. You're my daughter, you don't have to be part of the coalition itself anymore, just mine," Genbu said.
"That, I still cannot do. I don't want to go home," Miku said. "And just because Alquin won't be clear about it doesn't mean I don't have to. I'm staying here, with him, at his side. So please, don't worry about me, and go back. Tell Kelin I said hi, since I cannot come in person."
"You're really doing this willingly? He isn't holding you against your will, is he?" Genbu said.
"He was. But now he doesn't need to. I'm staying with Alquin. Permanently," Miku said.
"I see. So be it. Always such a willful daughter," Genbu said.
"I am. I'll see you again, sometime. Goodbye Yue, father."
 
"I'm bored!"
"Everyone is," Alquin said. "But it's almost over."
"I know, but this wait is annoying. A month, and even then, there is no guarantee you'll be able to conquer and use the Heron relay," Miku said.
"Of course we will," Alquin said. He smiled, but his expression quickly changed when the sound of an alarm went off. A voice came over the intercom.
"Sir, we've encountered a fleet," the communications officer said.
"Take them out," Alquin said.
"Acknowledged. But there is one problem. There is a space fortress with them," the officer said.
"A fortress? In this path? There weren't any reports of that! I'll be there soon," Alquin said.
"There shouldn't be one in this part of space," Miku said.
"Seems like the coalition might be prepared after all," Alquin said. "Your friends weren't as honest as I'd hope."
"Father wouldn't lie, neither would Yue. There's no way they would have told. And the coalition might not listen even if they did. Let's see what awaits us."
Alquin sighed, and then left for the bridge. Upon his arrival he saw a fleet on screen, with a giant space fortress behind them. His forces and the coalition ones had already started fighting, as was apparent by the explosions that were slowly gathering in amount.
"What is that?" Alquin asked. "Is that Zeick?"
"So there was another being produced. But it had that function? Amazing," Miku said.
"What is that, Miku?" Alquin asked.
"It's the second Zeick-class fortress. It has the ability to create relay space, just like the dual relays in the first Zeick. But it also has the ability to take a fleet with it, something the original doesn't have. I wasn't sure it was possible. But this proves it. This isn't good," Miku said.
"Sir, they are hailing us," a communications officer said.
"Operations, formation epsilon, plan c. Implement it now. Communications, put it on screen," Alquin said.
"Wait, Alquin! Instead have a garrison take off as a detachment and have it ascend above the rest of the fleets. Have it attack vertically," Miku said.
"Outside usual conventions? That's reasonable," Alquin said.
"Use them as a distraction, actually. Concentrate on command ships after that. The fleet is heavily dependent on the hierarchy, any blows to it affect performance," Miku said.
"Operations, implement her suggestion immediately. Tell the commander of the eighteenth garrison to carry out her plan. He's a good man, he'll know what to do," Alquin said. "Now, communications, answer the call."
An admiral on the fortress, an older man with a stiff look and a clean face, appeared on screen.
"Turn back," the man said.
"I don't believe you've introduced yourself," Alquin said.
"Admiral Fim Delay, commander of the fortress Hine. You're in coalition territory, with a fleet the size of which indicates nothing good. Our forces may be smaller, but you will not be getting past this fortress today," Fim Delay said.
"Admiral Delay, nice to meet you. I'm Alquin, better known as the emperor of the Ingrid Empire. And I'll be continuing, whether or not you think you can stop me," Alquin said. As he spoke, an officer came up to Fim and whispered something his ear. His eyes opened wide for a moment, and then responded with a hand gesture that shooed the man away.
"I must insist that you take stock of what will happen, should you refuse," Fim said.
"Do explain what will happen. You see, I'm not all that great at understanding what losses you're able to inflict on me. So far, in our little battle, you've lost twenty percent of the ships that came with you, correct? While I've lost less than one. Granted, there is a difference in size to begin with, but you're expecting that your special fortress will last for a while, correct?" Alquin asked.
"You're an arrogant man, that will be your downfall. If you won't listen, I have nothing further to say," Fim said.
"Fine, I shall listen. What more did you want to say?" Alquin asked. He smiled as he saw Fim squirm slightly. Fim glanced to his side, and then looked at Alquin again.
"It's nothing that will matter. I just had that warning, for you," Fim said. He was beginning to look anxious, and had pulled at his collar once.
"No, really, tell me. You should really speak this while we have the chance. Think about it. You, a measly admiral, are speaking with the most powerful man alive, right now. I'm offering you my ear, something not many people get. And you think your words won't matter, even when I'm willing to listen? Please, explain why you think that makes sense?" Alquin asked.
"I, I, I'm going to have to go. Cut the connection. Blast," Fim said. The admiral disappeared from the screen, and then Alquin laughed.
"How foolish. That hierarchy was his downfall. Operations, how long before you expect us to win?" Alquin asked.
"Their beginning to reorganize, but the blows struck to both the enemy fleet and the Hine in the past couple minutes have been extremely devastating. I'd say another ten minutes. Great job, sir," an operations officer said. It was the same man who long ago had spoken to Alquin out of line. Alquin recognized him and smiled.
"Of course. Thank you. Good job, all of you. Keep up the good work. Show them that we can fight whether or not there is an admiral, general, or commander above us giving orders. How foolish of him to consolidate absolute power in himself during the heat of battle. I wasn't in the same situation, fool," Alquin said.
The Hine lost quickly. None of the attack and defense schemes it used had been tested, this being its first battle after being so hastily deployed. Alquin's fleet, on the other hand, had experienced fighting the Zeick. Though slightly different, the strategies that each officer in Alquin's fleet used to take on the Zeick worked doubly well on the inexperienced Hine. Unfortunately, the Hine was completely destroyed, much to Alquin's disappointment. He had wanted to capture the ship and use it for his own purposes, but it was apparent that Fim had no intent of letting his ship be captured.
Alquin's fleet continued traveling towards the coalition's main planet, and the days of boredom that passed were welcomed by the fleet that had tasted a recent battle and needed rest.
 
"The Hine disappeared," member six said.
"Was it destroyed?" member five asked.
"I'm not sure. The last report we received said there was an empire force in coalition territory it had discovered. After that, the commander asked for a fleet, and then jumped with a fleet in tow," member six said.
"So there is a chance it's locked in battle," member three said.
"Unlikely. That report was from a week ago. We can only go by what we last received. And that seems to indicate the empire is in our territory, with an enormous fleet. Large enough to take down the Hine!" member six said.
The other members let out small gasps.
"Do we have the location reported by the Hine?" member two asked.
"I have the one from the initial sighting. The second is unknown, but we do have an estimate. If you'll look on your screens, you'll see the probable path. The initial location, the closest empire relay to it is the one at Blatt. That one loss seems to be biting back even harder than expected. If you consider the direction they seem to be heading, you can see the problem," member six said.
"It's heading towards us!" member four said.
"Yes, that's the conclusion I drew as well," member six said.
"With a force large enough to take out a space fortress? Do you think he's coming as a reaper?" member five asked.
"That's likely," member one said. "We need to prepare. The empire is coming with full force."
"If we recall all our forces, we should be prepared for anything they come at us with. After all, this is our territory, the advantage is on our side," member two said. The other members agreed, and then began making additional plans in preparation for Alquin's eventual arrival.
 
"Sir, another forty-eight hours and we'll arrive at the expected location," an operator said.
"Good. Send out the notice to the fleet. Everyone should get rested up now, as we clash with the coalition soon. I want scheduled shifts enforced, but everyone should be able to take part in the fight if need be," Alquin said.
"The notice is out, sir. Thank you, sir," the operator said.
Alquin took his leave and slept in his room that night. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to sleep again, so he took as much time as he needed. The next day he didn't bother leaving his room, and played card games with some of the men in the lounge that were on the local intranet. He eventually called Miku over to play with the group as well. It was a stress-free, relaxing day. It would serve them all well for the chaos that was to come tomorrow.
 
"Another garrison is down, sir! The twenty-third has retreated!"
"We don't need to cover that spot, anyways. Have the remnants reinforce the rest. I don't care if they split up individually. Have any other's that are taken out to reorganize the same way. Hurry!" Alquin said. He analyzed the hologram in front of him, frowning at the various weak spots in his assault.
"There and there," Miku said while pointing at a couple areas Alquin hadn't looked at. He couldn't see what she meant.
"What about them?" he asked.
"They will fall unless you tell the commanders to change formation. It doesn't look like it, but the incoming coalition force is in that formation's bane," Miku said.
Alquin sent the command to the ships, even though he still didn't see what Miku did. A short while later, he noticed that those particular areas had inflicted severe damage to the coalition forces they were engaged with.
Alquin had noticed it before, but now he truly believed it. Whenever Miku made a suggestion, it was always the perfect response. He still couldn't tell if she was overtly helping, but he appreciated the help nevertheless.
"You do realize you're helping me to attack your own people," Alquin said. Miku glared at him.
"I'm not exactly helping. I'm just noticing things. I haven't told you how to actually fight, have I?" Miku asked. She was slightly indignant, but her tone was the one that Alquin recognized as the one she used when she didn't want to admit that he had said some inconvenient truth about her.
Miku, for her part, felt a twinge of regret after pointing out the weaknesses to Alquin. She wanted Alquin to fulfill his dreams, but she thought of herself as still loyal to the coalition. She tried reasoning it out, telling herself that she was truly loyal to the people involved, and saving as many of their lives as possible came first. Even if it meant a battle where several would fall at once, she thought that it would mean less would suffer in the long run.
The battle between the coalition and empire forces lasted for three days without much progress on either side. The coalition planet behind the forces told of the stakes at hand. It was blue and beautiful, but the destruction in its skies told the people below that their fate was in question. It wasn't till the third day ended that something new happened.
"Sir, there's a new entrant! It's the Zeick! It's appeared at the edge of the battle and is hailing both sides," an operator said.
"Let him. Put it up. Just don't stop fighting," Alquin said. Soon the familiar image of Yue was up. Also, there was the image of a commander from the coalition that Alquin didn't recognize.
"This is Yue Fei, commander of the independent space fortress Zeick. I've come asking both sides to stop this fight. To the empire, first. The old emperor is gone; you don't need to follow in his footsteps."
"That's not what I'm doing," Alquin said.
"And to the coalition next. Why continue this senseless fight? It makes the people suffer, it has eaten at us for decades, and we still don't agree on the cause. Why are we fighting over a decades-old feud? Who cares which side really began the battle at Tenor, nothing changes that both sides were there and itching for a fight. Who pulled the trigger doesn't matter! Stop fighting, and let's discuss peace. The president himself is interested in diplomacy, and the emperor isn't a terrible person. Misguided, maybe, but not a fool. He'll listen if you speak," Yue said. He looked on with pleading eyes, looking much different than the person that Miku had originally known. She smiled, seeing Yue like this.
"Rebel Yue, we don't negotiate with terrorists. Goodbye," the coalition commander said. He ended his transmission. Yue sighed.
"I'm sorry, then. You as well, Mr. Emperor?"
"Alquin is fine. But you know my answer already."
"Sir, incoming!" said a voice on Yue's side of the transmission. Yue looked up, his eyes widened, and then the transmission cut out.
"What just happened?" Alquin asked.
"Yue? Where's Yue?" Miku asked.
"Working on it, sir," an operator said. "Here it is. The Zeick was attacked!"
"What fool did that?" Alquin asked. "Tell the commander that did that he's in line for execution! Well?"
"Sir, it wasn't us! It was the coalition! A large portion of their forces has started attacking the Zeick! The Zeick is moving! It's attacking the coalition forces as well! Sir, your orders?"
"Those fools. Have the third through eighth divisions assist the Zeick. It's a powerful ship, if it's on our side now, treat it as two divisions worth of ships that we cannot command, just follow," Alquin said.
"What if they attack us?" an operator asked.
"Yue wouldn't do that. And that was Kelin speaking. He's the one behind the battle controls. He won't fire on any of our allies," Miku said. Her voice was strong, but Alquin could see that her face had paled and tears had been wiped from her eyes.
"You heard her! Let's use this assistance to its fullest," Alquin said. Quietly, her spoke to Miku. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine. I just want this to be over. I can't believe they attacked Yue and daddy," Miku said.
"I didn't want to end the war just because I wanted control. I didn't agree with the emperor's ways, and I don't agree with all of the coalition's ways. Do you see that now?" Alquin asked.
"Just, not now, not now Alquin. There are other ways. But please, don't speak of that now. You'll win, you'll change everything. I hope you make things better. But I just don't know. I can't help but fear what you're capable of doing," Miku said.
"Then watch over me," Alquin said. He smiled and took Miku's hand in his. He then turned and continued watching the battle progress and giving commands.
 
"It's over! Get out while you can!" member four said.
"We still have some hope, we can negotiate!" member two said.
"You fool, what do we have left to negotiate with? Our entire fleet was decimated, and that freakish emperor still has more than enough forces to conquer us again!" member three said.
"You two flee then. We'll work something out, ourselves. We can always resort to diplomacy," member five said.
"Diplomacy? They are already sending down forces to take control of the planet. What can we possibly offer those that capture us?" member three asked.
"We'll figure that out. At least, get the talks started. That's all we need. Then we can delay, rebuild, and bounce back. We just need to get the politics started," member two said.
"You're mad," member three said. Then member three and four left the council room, never to return.
The other members discussed things for a while, but the sound of the door being smashed open interrupted them. A short while later, the council members were securely confined by the empire forces, never to rule again.

"Sir, all forces are in place. The coalition is under your complete control," the operator whom Alquin had developed a healthy amount of respect for said.
"Good. Take a break. You've deserved it. Your voice is beginning to fade a bit."
"You too, sir."
Miku tugged at Alquin's coat.
"Should we find out, then?" Alquin asked.
"I want to go as soon as possible. They don't have communications up, yet," Miku said.
"I want to thank him, too. As insistent as he was at asking for peace, I'm surprised he helped us," Alquin said.
"He's just that kind of person. I still don't understand him well. He's changed so much. It's good, but he feels different now. But let's go."
Alquin and Miku boarded a shuttle and took it to the Zeick, where a small reception awaited them.
"I thought so. It was you coming for us, after all," Teena said.
"Teena!" Miku said, and then ran into Teena's arms. The two women hugged, and then Miku looked back at Alquin.
"You've grown a lot since I last saw you," Teena said.
"I was just a girl back then. And you were just a young woman. What happened?" Miku asked.
"You tease! But now isn't the time for it. Let's go see the rest," Teena said.
"Was it just you to meet us? Why didn't the rest come?" Miku asked.
"You'll see why. Don't ask that now," Teena said with a heavy tone. Miku immediately felt sick. She didn't ask anything additional.
"I'm sorry to have to rush you, Mr. Emperor, but I think we should save the formalities for now. Please come with me," Teena said.
Alquin didn't mind that he was being treated casually, as he hated the formality that the previous emperor had. Alquin had become worried at Teena's words. He knew something was wrong, but he didn't want to guess. He didn't want to upset Miku with his thoughts, so he followed Teena quietly.
The hallways filled with murmurs about the emperor as Alquin and the rest made their way through the Zeick. Eventually they arrived at the hospital section, which made Miku's heart jump. But she didn't ask; she only followed.
"Miku," Genbu said. He walked up to his daughter and hugged her tightly. He then let go of her completely, unable to say more as her wide eyes and tears answered his fears.
"Is that what I think?" Alquin asked, his voice trembling. He, Miku, Genbu, Teena, and Kelin were all gathered around a white bed where a white sheet covered something. There were no machines attached to monitor whatever was under the sheet.
"You're Alquin, the new emperor? I wish we were meeting on better terms," Kelin said. He held out his hand for Alquin to shake.
"So do I," Alquin said. He didn't need to ask anymore. "Was it the coalition?"
"Of course," Kelin said, his eyes immediately showing signs of rage.
"I don't believe it!" Miku said. She let go of Genbu and walked to the head of the bed. She grabbed the sheet and threw it back, and then fell to the ground, regretting what she had done. Her sobs penetrated the room of people that could only look on silently at the lifeless corpse of the commander that had admired. All in the room felt pangs of hurt and grief, without exception.
 
An old-fashioned town was visible far below. Even as high as it was, there was grass on the cliff. The lone tree on it only added to the mystique of the setting. The wind blew softly, caressing both the flowers in the tree and the hearts of the people sitting below it.
The two of them sat side-by-side, watching with carefully shielded eyes as the sun made its way down towards the mountains in the distance. They were dressed casually, echoing the calm they were feeling.
"It's an amazing sight," Miku said.
"Yes. I've always loved this view. This is the first time I've seen the real thing in several years," Alquin said.
"Thank you for sharing this. I can see why you'd love Exoquis so much, with such beauty in the air."
"It doesn't compare. I loved it, but I only admire it now."
"You're never content, are you?"
"I am. But I've decided not to compare anything to you."
"I'm not so great. Thank you, though."
"I have to thank Yue Fei. If it weren't for him, if it weren't for him, I, I don't know."
"I know. I loved him, but not the same way. But now I love him more, for bringing me to you. I don't regret it, anymore."
"You used to regret loving me?" Alquin laughed slightly.
"Don't laugh! I had a lot of complications! You imprisoned me! I thought you'd never free me! I was scared, and then slowly I started seeing you in a different light. Of course I had regrets at first!"
"I still have you imprisoned."
"Yes, you do!"
The couple laughed and cried while considering the past that had led them to their current place. As they did, they enjoyed the real sunset on Exoquis.