Jack's POV
Drew and I were kind of nervous at the moment. The implications of the previous night's conversation were unsettling to say the least.
"I still can't get over the idea that this might all be on purpose." I sighed.
"I know.." Drew said. "It's amazing what people will do to each other. Well, if it's people causing this at least.. It could be something else entirely. I don't know.."
I nodded and was about to reply, before we got a transmission from Admiral Palenix.
"I bet you can guess why I'm calling." He deadpanned on the communicator.
I grinned. "Survivors?"
"Yes."
"Care to join us this time?" Drew asked.
"On my way."
A few minutes passed before the Libertus admiral arrived. "Scanners picked them up not too far away. A large group too. Maybe fifteen to twenty thousand."
My eyes widened. "Holy shit..."
We began to head over. It wasn't hard to track them down. They were maybe two miles away, not much of a trip by car.
As I disembarked from the car, I noticed, with some amusement, that most had the clothing of people from the nineteen sixties.
I was about to greet them, when, to my surprise, a group of people I recognized(from history books and documentaries, not from personally knowing them) began to walk forward.
Generals Curtis LeMay and Maxwell Taylor, Admiral George Anderson, Secretaries Robert F. Kennedy, Dean Rusk, Adlai Stevenson, John C. McCone, McGeorge Bundy, Robert McNamara, Kenneth O'Donnell, Ted Sorensen, and...President John F. Kennedy.
"We're looking for whoever's in charge." JFK said cordially.
I blinked.
"Um, that would be me, Mr. President." Drew looked on with widened eyes and shock.
"President Kennedy!? I thought you were assassinated.."
There was a sudden, but noticeable period of silence. Everyone looked at us with horror.
"What..." He began, paling at the thought.
"Shit. I forgot time doesn't really matter in this world.." Drew remembered, facepalming.
"We're from the 2000s. Long story." I said quickly.
Kennedy narrowed his eyes, but nodded. "We have more pressing concerns at the moment."
"Like how we got here." Robert F. Kennedy added.
"Oh shit, here we go.." Drew muttered to himself.
I nodded, and proceeded to give a short version.
By the end of it, everyone looked at me with even more shock.
"H-how?!" JFK asked.
"We don't know. We have a few theories, but none have been confirmed." I replied.
I nodded to Drew. "Want to handle the diplomacy this time?" With a nod in return, Drew turned to JFK and said,
"I recommend you and your group come back with us, Mr. President. It's dangerous out here.. The shit we've encountered is unreal! We've run into predators wanting to eat you, opposing militaries ready to kill you at a moments notice, and a spartan who claims to be the 'God of War' or something like that.. Killed 400 of our men single handedly. No guns.."
The leaders looked to each other, utterly thunderstruck.
"Mr. President?" General LeMay began. "Are you sure we can trust them? This might be a trap."
"I assure you it's not." I interjected.
"Why should we trust you?" LeMay asked. "As far as we know, you could be Soviet spies sent here to destabilize us." Drew gasped in false shock and said to Jack in his best Russian accent sarcastically,
"Oh no, Vladimir! The Capitalist Americans are onto us! Alert the Motherland!"
I gasped in response. "By Stalin's beard!"
Snickers began to come from several of the people, though none of the generals or intelligence operatives seemed particularly amused.
"You would do well to trust us." Palenix commented, stepping forward, earning a surprised gasp from the humans who had never seen an alien before.
"We mean no harm. Your petty paranoia will get you nowhere here."
LeMay was about reply, before Kennedy cut him off.
"We'll join you."
"But...Mr. President-"
"Enough!" Kennedy said firmly. "We are in no position to antagonize anyone. We need their help."
"Mr. President?" Drew asked, getting JFK's attention. "I have an important question I've been wondering for a long time.."
Kennedy nodded for him to continue. Drew's expression then turned to that of a giddy school boy.
"Are there really aliens in Area 51!?"
Kennedy smirked in response. "Indeed there are. Only the remains of that single crash though. Where do you think we got a lot of our technology?"
"Knew it.." Drew said with a smirk.
"Mr. President!" Several officials cried, some in higher pitches then normal.
"It's not like that matters now." Kennedy chuckled.
He turned. "And what are your names? If I may ask?"
"Drew King." Drew responded, shaking the President's hand.
"Jack Anderson. Emperor Jack Anderson." I added.
Kennedy nodded. "Well then, it's getting too hot out here. Maybe you could show us to your capital? No one here needs heat stroke."
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Kennedy, Palenix, Drew and I were meeting with the other leaders.
"Alright. Everyone, this is President Kennedy." I introduced to the Imperials.
"I feel he is the perfect candidate to be Head of the Civilian government." I added.
"I agree." Drew said with a smile. "He's one of the greatest US Presidents of all time. He'll be perfect for the position!"
The Admirals looked to each other, before Carandial spoke up. "Well then, President Kennedy. Welcome to the Empire. We can trust you to form a viable government?"
Kennedy seemed surprised but nodded. "I need a list of capable individuals. I don't want it to just be dominated by my own people if there are many groups here."
I nodded. "I'll provide that list immediately."
Caesarius spoke up. "Do you need a chief diplomat? I know of one who might kill two birds with one stone. He'd placate the Republic's citizens and he has actual experience,"
"Oh shit.. You mean Apollo, right?" Drew asked.
Caesarius nodded. "As much as I dislike the idea of a former member of the Republic holding such a position of power, I feel he is more than qualified. The Republic's citizens are getting restless. They're starting to want representation here."
"Who are we, the British?" Drew sarcastically asked, referencing the Revolutionary War.
Kennedy and I chuckled. "Unfortunately, I must agree. We need to give them a place in the government if we're going to keep them peaceful. Have their hero be given a position of power, and we remove a major reason for their restlessness as well as give them a little more rights. It's been long enough since the war anyway. I would rather have peace." Drew nodded and said,
"Fair point.. Let's give it to him. Let him prove his worth."
Kennedy, not getting all the references, simply shrugged. "I'll meet with him."
I nodded. "I'll send for him."
Within a few moments, the Libertus Senator arrived.
He looked a little suspicious, but said nothing.
"You must be Apollo?" Kennedy asked.
Apollo nodded. "Yes. I hear you're one of the new arrivals?"
Kennedy nodded. "Admiral Caesarius recommended you for the position of Chief Diplomat. I have been given the responsibility of forming a civilian government, and we all feel you would be the best choice."
Apollo blinked in surprise. "Really?" He asked, looking to Drew and I, then to Caesarius.
"As much as it pains me to say it, you were an effective president during the Great Cyrannus War, and you remain an effective leader." Caesarius declared. Drew looked at Apollo and said,
"Just don't get pushed around too much. The Republic's last President did wonders in that area during the war.."
Apollo sighed. "Whatever you say."
Then he grinned. "You know, if I'm chief diplomat, that would mean you'd have to give me more respect, Lieutenant."
"Oh balls.." Drew sighed in realization. "Now I really need a fucking Xanax!.."
Apollo's grin widened.
"I'll take the job."
Kennedy nodded. "Welcome to the team."
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Kennedy, as the first President of the Empire, formed a cabinet very quickly. In addition to Apollo as Chief Diplomat, it included Caesarius, who was promoted again to Chief of Defense(Carandial was given the rank of Admiral of the Navy.)
Kennedy's other advisors were all incorporated into the Empire.. It gave us a good bedrock to build upon.
Meanwhile, Kovu and Adia were going to give the cubs a tour of the capital. It was their first time being out of the small area their pride occupied.
Adia's POV
"Make sure you listen to Kovu and Adia while you're out there. You hear that, Simba?" Mufasa asked.
Simba nodded quickly. "Yeah dad! I will!"
"That goes for you too, Nala!" Nala's mother known as Sarafina called out.
"Yes, Mom!" Nala called back. The exact same treatment was given to Tama, Kula, Chumvi, and Tojo. Nia, Tama's mother was the sarcastic one out of the bunch. She'd always make a witty joke when she had the chance. Mchumba, Kula's mother almost always had to eat something. She probably ate more than King Mufasa himself! The feasting after the hunts was her favorite part of the day. Asha, Tojo's mother particularly enjoyed nature and the Circle of Life in general. She would go outside and observe the nature in any spare time she had. Finally was Nzuri, Chumvi's mother. She was more reserved compared to the rest of the lionesses, probably because she was newer, but she had a big heart and was loyal to the end. The cubs shared similar, if not the same traits to their mothers! Some more than others..
"Have fun, Chumvi!" Nzuri called out to her cub.
"I will, Mom! See ya!" Chumvi replied, running back to catch up with the group.
Kovu walked up to Mufasa and Sarabi. "We'll keep an eye on them! Don't worry."
Mufasa smiled and nodded. With that, we started to walk off towards our capital: Colossus.
"This is so awesome!" Simba cried.
"Remember the rules now!" I sternly reminded. "Stick together so you don't get lost, no messing with anybody, be polite!"
"Yeah." Kovu added. "I don't want to have to explain to dad if we get complaints."
"If you say so.." Tama said, mischievously plotting something in her head. She always was a troublemaker when she could be.
Nearby, Admiral Palenix was getting some food from a hotdog stand. It was kind of funny, but the admirals were starting to be a little more like their human friends.
"Hi Admiral Palenix!" Adia said in greeting.
The admiral turned, before smiling. "Greetings. Welcome to Colossus, young ones." The cubs' attention then turned to what looked like hundreds of men marching nearby. It looked to be training drills.
"Woahh!" Kula said. "Who are they?"
"The Imperial Navy. They protect us all from any threat out there. If you think those are cool, watch this. Star Destroyer Executor, head over to Colossus. Assume a defensive position."
Within seconds, an enormous, triangular shadow loomed over the capital. The massive hull of the Star Destroyer came into view, its appearance earning cheers from Imperial patriots and muted awe from the new citizens.
"Woah..." Simba breathed.
"We have over twenty four of those ships." Palenix said proudly.
"Wow.. That's awesome!" Chumvi yelled with enthusiasm. The cubs could only stand in awe and observe.
Palenix nodded. "Quite."
"One day when I'm big and strong like Kovu and Adia's Dads, I wanna join the Imperial Navy too!" Chumvi said. I widened my eyes in disagreement. I had seen my Dad almost die from battle being apart of the Imperial Navy. I didn't want the same, or even worse to happen to any of the cubs.
Palenix blinked. "I wouldn't rush into it if I were you. It's not all glory and cool weapons and ships." Chumvi cocked a brow.
"Oh.. Then what is it?" he asked.
Palenix blinked. "I'll let your parents tell you when you're older."
"But why can't we just be told now?" Simba asked. Before the admiral could reply, I sternly said,
"Simba, please listen to the Admiral! The Navy is no laughing matter and it isn't all jokes and games! My Daddy was almost killed in the fight against the Republic a long while ago! It's very dangerous, Simba!" I then turned my gaze to Chumvi. "And that goes for you too, Chumvi!"
Simba sighed, but didn't protest.
"Perhaps I should be on my way." Palenix said quickly. He nodded to me and Kovu, before heading off.
Then he stopped.
It almost looked like he could hear something in the distance. Then his eyes widened.
"Get down!" He yelled.
A sudden explosion shook the city. The scream of unknown aircraft filled the air.
Then, over the city, an even larger Star Destroyer arrived. This one was a mile long, but resembled the standard Imperial ships very closely.
It immediately opened fire on the Executor, which returned fire.
However, it quickly became clear that the Executor was outmatched by the sheer size and firepower of this new ship.
Palenix then looked on in horror as the Executor was hit by a full spread of lasers, and exploded into a ball of fire.
Then, a large shield appeared around the capital, preventing the ship's shattered remnants from crashing into the city below.
"Admiral!"
Palenix looked to his wrist.
"Report!"
"We've activated the defensive shield. However, we can expect enemy ground troops to land any moment! The Emperor and his team are with the rest of the fleet on an exercise! Orders?"
"Frak!" He growled, an expletive Kovu had learned was essentially a Cyrannian translation of...that word. The cubs looked at the scene in absolute fear.
"I'm scared, Adia!.." Kula said. I shifted my gaze back and forth throughout all that was happening. This scared her for her Dad's safety even more. She was almost certain that he too would be involved with whatever this was.
"What are we gonna do?" I asked the Admiral.
Kovu looked to Admiral Palenix. "Come. The command center is the safest place."
He motioned for them to follow him.
Meanwhile, Imperial troops were rushing to the south, where enemy ground troops were landing.
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When they got there, they noticed several former officers of the Republic waiting.
Palenix narrowed his eyes. "What do you think you're doing here?"
One of the officers, a young male Libertus, stepped in forward. "We were going to assist in the defense of this capital. You forget that our people are here too!"
Palenix sighed. "War makes allies of former enemies. Very well. Roslia, assume command of western flank, Cretacea, the center, and Shavalera, the east. Kuestantine, Kaedar, coordinate the other areas to make sure no flanking attacks occur."
They looked to each other, before they headed off to assume their duties.
Palenix then rushed to a nearby table, displaying the situation in a hologram.
"Are we holding them off?" Kovu asked, uncharacteristically serious.
Palenix nodded. "For now."
The command center shook again, and in the distance, the sound of rifle and tank fire let them know that the battle had begun.
Then, a hologram suddenly appeared from the table. A man in his mid forties, with a military uniform of olive gray regarded them with arrogance.
"Your efforts are useless." He said with scorn. "Surrender now or be destroyed!"
Palenix glared back defiantly. "What is the meaning of this attack?! We have committed no acts of aggression against you!"
"Yeah! Go away, ugly!" Tojo yelled to the guy, with innocent anger.
The officer blinked, before scowling. "Shut it you insolent brat!" I was starting to reach my boiling point.
"We'll show you 'insolent brat'!" I yelled in anger. I turned to the Admiral and whisper-yelled, "Where are the rest of the Navy? It's getting dangerous.."
Palenix cut off the transmission, and entered in some data. "They're not far away. We just have to hold out until the fleet arrives."
"What's going on?" Joel said as he, Hera, and Owen entered the command center.
"Long story." Kovu replied.
"Admiral!"
A local officer had called on the communicator. "The enemy army is advancing in the east! Three heavy walkers or whatever and a good three thousand troops! Orders?"
The room shook again. On the map, the cub saw massive columns of enemy troops advancing towards the shielded walls.
"What the hell is going on?" Joel demanded
"We're under attack!" Palenix yelled in frustration. The cubs were absolutely frightened to say the least. Chumvi looked at Palenix and asked,
"Will we be okay? I wanna go home.."
Palenix blinked, before looking away, closing his eyes. "I know."
"What can we do to help?" Joel said trying to hide his panic.
"I need you to get to the front. We need to know the situation on the frontlines from more the just these maps. Take these." He handed them communicators. "Report on the enemy offensive when you get there. We need to know what areas need reinforcement or medics."
Joel stood silent for a second trying to compose himself. "Sure. Hera, lets go." Joel ran off with the communicator and headed for the front.
Hera rolled her eyes and snarled as she went running after Joel.
The ground shook again as the din of battle got ever closer. Their front line was holding, but the enemy was pushing forward.
Then, Palenix froze. "It's the fleet..." He whispered, as if he couldn't believe it himself.
"It's the fleet!" He cried.
"Yay!" The cubs cried simultaneously. Adia sighed in relief and muttered,
"Thank God.."
On the holographic display, the fleet closed in, 23 1,600 foot Star Destroyers and dozens of other ships all began opening fire on the smaller invading force.
The sound of air battle filled their ears, as strikecraft from both sides clashed for control of the air.
Then, everything went silent…
A sudden snap hiss, and a red light filled the room.
Everyone turned to see a black armored figure approaching, with a beam of blood red plasma.
He stepped forward.
"And now we will humbly accept your surrender." He said in a commanding baritone voice.
Then, to everyone's horror, twelve new ships arrived. From the enemy.
It was a trap! They were luring the entire military here so they could defeat them in one fell swoop!
Joel's voice crackled over the communicator "What the hell is happening up there!
Palenix stepped in front of the cubs.
"They're just children! Do not harm them."
The figure stood there for a few seconds.
"Get the fuck away from them!"
The figure turned to see Jack, Dad, and an entire army rush into view.
Overhead, the sounds of explosions followed. The top of the command center blew open, rubble falling to the floor. Overhead, they could see, despite being outgunned, the fleet was pushing forward. And they were winning! It seemed that despite the size disparity, they were evenly matched in terms of firepower, and the sheer numbers of the Navy was enough to drive back the invading enemies.
Then, Joel, Hera and another large army rushed in.
The figure was surrounded!
He looked around.
"It's over!" Jack said. "Surrender."
The figure regarded them with contempt.
"You underestimate the power of the dark side!"
He held his weapon at the ready, but then stopped.
"I sense each of you is strong in the force." He said suddenly, motioning to Joel, Dad, and Jack.
"Stronger than most Jedi were..." He mused.
"Perhaps...we can come to an agreement... For your sakes."
"What fucking agreement!?" Dad yelled to the figure. "And what're you talking about? We have you surrounded!"
The figure responded by lifting up his arm, and making a fist.
"I am giving you a choice..." He said, tightening his grip. Dad began to feel his throat close up, and he began to gasp for air.
"The fuc-?" He was cut off, as his throat was now completely shut, and he couldn't breathe.
"It's either an alliance..." The figure declared. "Or you all die with your entire faction. I have a fleet loyal to me, who will turn the tide, in either side's favor."
He tightened his grip. Then he released it. "I am offering you a choice between victory or annihilation."
Dad gasped for air as he felt the pressure dissipate, and he could breathe again.
"What.. the fuck… was that!?.." Dad questioned, taking deep breaths. I rushed to his side to see if he was okay.
"The force." The figure replied.
"In the right hands, a powerful ally. I have no love for Palpatine, or his scum of commanders. But we need help if we are to overthrow him."
Vader turned. "Join me, and I can teach you the ways of the force, with our combined strength, we can bring order to both our worlds. And defeat our common enemy."
Jack stopped. "What is it you want from us?"
The figure turned to Jack.
"An alliance. Support from your industry in this war. Palpatine won't stop until your nation falls. We need each other." Dad cocked a brow and asked,
"Who is this 'Palpatine'?"
The figure looked to Dad. "A cruel, evil tyrant who ruined my life and the lives of millions. He played two sides against each other for three years to destabilize the galaxy enough so he could seize power. He enslaved me, caused the deaths of my family and all I ever knew."
He looked to me. "He will go to any lengths to keep his power. This nation here may be the only chance my home has at liberation." Completely off topic, Simba smiled a bit and responded,
"Y'know, you sound a lot like my Dad.."
The figure looked to the cub…
"Interesting..." He replied. "I apologize for my actions on arrival. I needed to make my arrival look convincing to Palpatine's lackey's.
Vader turned to the others.
"As I said before, we require each other's help. Whether you like it or not."
He turned. "Captain Piett? Admiral Thrawn" He asked to a hologram on his wrist. "You are to commence with the Maneuver. Engage Zaarin's fleet immediately."
"Yes Lord Vader." The aforementioned officers replied.
A dozen new Star Destroyers arrived in the battle. They were the enemy's class of ship, but began firing on their former allies.
"I believe this proves my case." Dad had his eyes widened in shock.
"Holy shit… You're not kidding."
The figure turned. "My name is Anakin Skywalker. Who are you if I may ask?" Dad turned to the one known as Anakin.
"It's Drew. Drew King.." He replied.
"I'm Jack." Jack replied.
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Jack's POV
Anakin Skywalker walked alongside Caesarius, Kennedy, Drew and myself. He had requested a private meeting. Despite having secured a victory, Skywalker was not to keen on carrying the war into enemy territory just yet.
Indeed, none of us were. According to Skywalker, over three hundred Imperial Star Destroyers currently patrolled the Empire. While our combined battlefleet could challenge any single Imperial Battle Squadron (which was around thirty Star Destroyers usually assigned to a specific area of territory), it was too far outnumbered to make a difference at the moment.
"I have requested this meeting for a few reasons." Anakin began.
"Firstly, I am not a politician. I care not for squabbles or power plays. That is why I am willing to follow your orders for now. I will defer to your judgement on the day to day running of our empire. Though I would like a commanding position in the military of our new alliance."
Caesarius thought for a moment. "I will accept that idea. You are a capable fighter in any event."
"Also," he began, turning to Drew. "I believe that Drew's actions in the final stages of the Battle have decisively proven he is ready to be promoted to Captain a Star Destroyer." Drew gasped slightly in shock.
"Are you positive I'm even ready for such a position?.. I mean don't get me wrong, I appreciate it and all, but.. I don't feel ready.. What if I screw up?"
Caesarius shook his head. "You have more spirit and drive then most officer candidates I have known have ever shown. You led the men to victory, and they listened despite you being a lower ranking officer then several of the commanders there. You have proven yourself. I have confidence that you will be a great captain, and perhaps one day, Grand Admiral or even Admiral of the Navy." Drew could only smile.
"Thank you.. I won't let any of you down.."
Caesarius nodded. "Then you are hereby given the rank of Captain. We'll hold a promotion ceremony tomorrow. You'll also receive your crew and assigned Division."
I nodded as well. "Congratulations, Captain Drew King."
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Drew's POV
I couldn't believe any of this was happening! It seemed like not several months ago, I was just a common teenager with an unsure purpose in life.. But now I know exactly what I wanna do! I wanna slowly rise the ranks of the Imperial Navy, earn my way to the top and protect the Empire with the best of my ability. It was certainly crazy how far I had already climbed..
I was to receive my ship, as well as be introduced to the group I would be commanding. I named my ship the 'INS Cobain', named after Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. Why name it after him? I'm a huge Nirvana fan and a guitar fanatic, what can I say?.. Anyways, I was now walking my way through the plaza and up to the INS Cobain where I would be formally granted my ranking. I made it to the top where I saw Jack and Caesarius. I smiled slightly and excitedly said,
"Let's do this!"
Caesarius smiled, and stepped forward, before saluting me. "Welcome to the Fleet, Captain."
He handed me a badge with five silver stars.
"Bronze indicates officers, silver ship and division commanders, and gold Admirals." Caesarius declared.
He offered the badge to me. I took the badge with pride. I saluted him back as a show of respect.
"Thank you, Caesarius." I said.
Jack stepped forward, and handed me a gray uniform. "Your official uniform as an officer of the fleet. You are officially a Captain of the Imperial Navy!" I still could hardly believe this was happening! I knew that there was heavy responsibility for this role in our military, and I sure as hell ain't gonna let anyone down!
'I promise to serve, protect, and defend the Empire, it's citizens, and our freedom..' I secretly promised to myself. And I always keep my promises, no matter what I have to do to keep them.
Jack smiled, and saluted me. Cheers rang out from the men, while other Star Destroyers in the fleet all fired their guns in salute.
A shuttle descended from the Cobain. It landed in the plaza. A ramp then appeared. It was our route to the ship.
When I arrived on the bridge of the Cobain, I saw all the terminals were ready for their crew, while a single chair waited in the center of the ship. I walked slowly over to the sizeable chair and sat down in it. This is when it fully hit me that this was 100% real! I would keep my promise, and no one would stop me from fulfilling it!
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Jack's POV
Joel, Drew and I were taking a short stroll. I think a nice, relaxing walk would help. There was to much bullshit going on! I needed a break!
"I still can't believe all this has happened." I sighed.
Two wars in seventy days. Jesus Christ!
It was also getting colder. I remember what it said about a year being only around a hundred days here, and that meant winter was around the corner.
"Thanks guys for joining me on this walk." I said.
"Anytime.." Drew said. "I need a break from this shit anyways."
"Yeah, this place looks beautiful when you're not gonna be eaten alive." Joel agreed.
I was about to reply, before I heard something in the distance.
I stopped.
"What is it?" Joel asked. "What do you see?"
It sounded like…
I froze.
Someone screaming.
I rushed forward. If there was another survivor out there, we needed to get to them fast. Judging from their cries of terror, it seemed something had already found them.
"It never ends does it?" Drew sighed. "We should probably help whoever that is. They could be hurt."
I nodded, and continued to run.
I reached the crest of a hill, and my eyes widened.
A young girl, maybe 10 years old was running from...that same fucking cat that seemed so interested in making our lives a living hell! A Deinofelis, again…
I rushed down, and aimed my rifle. Rule of thumb, never go outside the city walls without a rifle.
The Deinofelis leaped forward, and pinned the girl to the ground. I fired three rounds at the cat. One hit the sand a little ways away, but the other two hit the cat in the ribs and neck.
I rushed forward and pushed the cat off of the girl. She was still.
I blinked, and felt for a pulse. I felt relief when there was one.
I gently picked her up, and began to power walk back to the capital.
When we got there, I brought her to the hospital.
We waited there for a few minutes, before the doctor came out with a concerned look on her face.
"Um...are her parents here too?" The doctor asked, somewhat nervously.
"No. We couldn't find evidence of anyone else." I replied.
The doctor sighed. "Can we speak in private? I don't know what to make of this..."
I blinked, before nodding. She motioned for us to follow her.
When we got to the hallway, she showed me some X-Rays.
"She displays signs of long term trauma consistent with physical abuse and neglect. Considering the fact that tests show she wasn't here for more then a few hours..."
My eyes widened. What…
I looked down.
"Jesus fucking Christ.." Drew said in shock. His expression then turned to that of anger. "The fuckers who did this better hope we don't find them! My self control can only go so far when it comes to people like this…"
I nodded.
"Hey Drew, calm down I doubt after what she's gone through she doesn't need any more stress." Joel said, though his expression was one of well hidden, but barely contained anger.
I sighed.
"I might make an exception with Imperial Justice if we find those bastards." I seethed.
"She's awake if you want to speak with her." The doctor said. "But please, she's really nervous right now."
I nodded.
She motioned for us to follow her. We walked in.
The girl was lying in a hospital bed. She tensed up slightly when we entered.
"Its okay." I said calmly. "We're here to help you."
The girl narrowed her eyes. "Let me guess. You're the police or something?"
I looked to Drew and Joel, before shaking my head. "Not exactly."
"I don't do police.." Drew said.
I nodded.
"The point is you're safe right now."
She blinked, before looking away.
"Where am I? Really? I know that that was a Sabertooth Tiger. I live in Colorado, as far from a desert as you can get. Can you actually tell me what the hell is going on?"
We were all surprised by the fact that she put all this together so fast. "We'll explain it in a bit. We were actually wondering if you could answer some questions?"
The girl looked at me, before nodding slowly. "Sure..."
"What's your name?" I asked.
"Kyle-" She began, before stopping, "Kylie. It's Kylie." She said firmly.
Her eyes widened, before she looked towards the door.
I turned. No one was there. Something told me that she was worried about something… Or someone. Drew knelt down at her bed and said,
"I can tell you're worried, but I promise you it's all gonna be okay. No one's gonna get you while we're here.. You'll be protected. We'll make sure of that.."
The girl relaxed a bit, before she looked down.
I noticed a single tear fall down her face.
"My name is Kylie Broflovski. I..." She wiped the tear away. "Please, if my parents find out-"
I froze. Her...parents?!
"My parents always wanted a boy a lot more than a girl. When I was born, they tried to pretend I was a boy, and kept trying to have a real one. Then they...found out they couldn't have anymore children. So they adopted my brother, Ike, and..."
She sniffled a little. "They forgot about me. Then they found out I had told a friend of mine the truth. They hurt me when they found out. I..."
She began to cry. "They never listen to me! They only care about my brother… I…"
She looked down, and continued to cry. Drew shook his head in sympathy for the poor girl.
"I'm so sorry.." He said. "You shouldn't have to go through that.."
She smiled a little at Drew.
"Please... If my parents find me...they'll..."
"They won't be able to do anything." I declared.
"I'll see to that."
She looked at me, a little unsure. "But what about the police, or if a Judge forces me to go back to them..."
"We have a lot of leeway here." I said, though that was putting it mildly.
I looked at her. "I promise, they will never hurt you again."
She smiled a little. "Thank you..."
I nodded.
"Emperor?"
I sighed, and responded on the communicator. "What is it Daeron?" I asked. Yes, I was on a first name basis with the Admirals now.
"Still on for that movie later tonight? Carandial got a ton of popcorn."
I blinked. "Kind of busy at the moment."
"Understood. Is everything alright?"
I stopped. "We'll get back to you."
I turned off the communicator.
"Emperor?! What's going on?!" Kylie asked, looking at me questioningly.
Then her eyes widened. "I'm not on Earth am I?"
I looked to Drew and Joel. I sighed, and nodded to Drew. He had gotten good at delivering the whole "speech" as we called it to new survivors. Drew shook his head.
"No, you're not on the Earth you once knew.. We're in a completely different land, probably in a completely different dimension! Even we have no idea how we got here.. People just seem to appear here at random often times."
I nodded. "We're part of an Empire here. We're all trying to survive out here. As far as we can tell, there's no way we can get back..."
Then, to my surprise, she smiled slightly. "So...I'm safe from them. Because A, I'm in another world, and B, because you're the Emperor of this Empire?"
I nodded.
She chuckled a little, brightening up a bit. "Thank you your majesty."
"Please, call me Jack." I said.
Her face then grew a little concerned again.
"But where will I stay? I mean, is there an orphanage or something here? Foster care?"
I stopped. I hadn't thought about that.
Honestly, I don't think Kylie should go into that whole system, if there was one in place that is. But…
I stopped.
I then looked down. "You're welcome to stay with us. We'll take care of you."
Joel looked at me in surprise. A single eyebrow was raised. He had a look of "really?" on his face.
I ignored him.
"If you're fine with that of course." I added.
She looked at me for a moment. "Would that make you my father?"
I blinked, before nodding. She smiled a little. She then looked down. "Can I call you daddy?"
I stopped. I had never thought of myself as a parenting type, but… Well, I guess if I could raise Kovu...
I smiled and nodded.
"Welcome to the family."
Kylie smiled a little. A sincere smile. Drew too smiled at the scene. His mind was then flooded with thoughts with no warning.
'This makes me want to spend some time with Adia.. I've been way too distant lately what with all this bullshit we've had to deal with! Maybe I'm a bad father for not making more time…'
Drew now had an expression of sadness and regret. He didn't know why, but he felt awful.. He was going to make it up to Adia; that was a promise.
'I just hope she doesn't hate me for not being there enough..'
I noticed Drew's expression. I turned to him, and whispered.
"Want to have another movie night? I think we could all use it." Drew looked at me with the same expression, trying to hide the tears beginning to form from me.
"I-" Drew started, but he paused. He looked like he was struggling to hide his emotions. "I gotta go!" With that, he stormed out of the room, leaving me confused.
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Drew's POV
I ran as fast as I could without looking back. I could hear nothing but the beating of my heart and my inner thoughts eating away at me!
"You're a useless piece of shit! You were a simple mistake, nothing more! It's no wonder no one loves you!..."
I shook his head to rid himself of the horrible memories as a stream of tears fell down his face. I then felt something touch my shoulder. I turned around to see Jack, an expression of worry and confusion on his face.
"Drew...are you okay man?"
"I'm- I'm a fucking horrible father.. What the fuck is wrong with me!?" I broke down crying, unable to stop myself. I was emotionally shattered..
"What are you talking about?" Jack asked, utterly shocked. "You're a great father! Better than me at least..." I then had an expression of anger, and I yelled,
"Cut the bullshit, Jack!" I softened up immediately and sighed. "I'm sorry.. It's just- It's so clear that you're an amazing father.. You make more time for Kovu than I ever have with Adia.. And now you have another child.. I'm-" Drew struggled against another breakdown.
"But you didn't let Adia wander into the desert and get bitten by a poisonous snake and nearly die." Jack pointed out. "You also didn't..." Jack looked away, closing his eyes tightly, as if what he was about to say was to painful to bring up. I noticed a single tear fall down his face.
"I also didn't what?.." I asked Jack with concern of my own.
Jack opened his eyes. "You know Kenzi? I had a little brother once, much like you have a little sister. I was supposed to watch him when my parents left for a date night. He..."
Jack took a deep breath and continued. "A fire broke out because I took my eyes off of him for one minute, and his attempt to make some food led to a fire. I...couldn't save him. When I got to him he was already badly burned. When we got out...he..."
Jack slumped to the ground and slammed his fist on the ground. "I let my little brother die because I didn't listen to my parents! I...we hated eachother. I always thought he was so annoying, and that he got all the attention from my parents, and the last thing I said to him was that he was..."
Jack stopped.
"We both have done things we regret with our families. But you have a chance to make this right. I didn't..." I was absolutely stunned! I had no idea Jack's past was so brutal.. I shook my head.
"Jesus…" I looked at him and sincerely said, "I am so sorry… You should never have had to go through that.. May he rest in peace.."
Jack smiled slightly. "Thanks man. It means a lot."
He frowned. "I can't help but still worry about all that happened. My parents didn't blame me, but I still felt horrible. I still feel horrible. That is why I'm trying so hard to be a good leader. You don't get the pressure that it puts on you. When those bastards attacked us today, I felt like it was rushing back. I knew that the cubs, that our friends, that our people were there, in the middle of the fight. I could have left more ships behind. We didn't need the entire fleet for a single exercise!"
He got up. "Jesus fucking Christ this is harder than I thought." He chuckled. I reached out and put my hand on his shoulder.
"I know, Jack.. I know how hard all this must be for you.. But no matter what I'll try my fucking hardest to be there. Always remember that.." I sighed. "But even then, there's still much about me and my past that you'll never understand.. I'm no fucking better than… than he was!" I started to walk away when I was stopped by Jack once more.
"I don't care. If I'm going to be honest about this, I don't care about what you may have done in the past. What I've seen is a genuinely good, dedicated person who is way more qualified for leadership then he thinks." Jack turned. "You're like a brother to me. I would trust you with my life." I cringed at that. It meant a lot to me, but it brought back even more horrible memories.
"I love you, Drew.. We're like the best brothers ever! I trust you with my life, and I'll have yours just the same!"
"I love you too, Landon.."
No.. Not this.. Not that horrible night… I couldn't speak, I could only stand there motionless, breathing heavily and tearing up. The thoughts continued on like a raging nightmare.
The door slammed open. It was him.. He was drunk and angry again..
"Daddy, no!" An 8 year old Landon begged his father to stop. He couldn't take any more.. He had taken too many already..
"Brandon, stop!" Drew's Mom screamed at her husband. Brandon slapped her in the face and knocked her to the floor. Drew and Kenzi stand in a corner shivering, hoping that they wouldn't be next. Brandon turned his attention back to Landon, who was crying.
"THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT YOU PIECE OF SHIT!" Brandon punched Landon in the face, his crying growing louder. "IF NONE OF YOU WERE HERE I WOULDN'T BE IN THIS MESS!" He continued to reign blow after blow to the poor 8 year old's face. "THIS IS WHY I LEAVE ALL THE TIME! YOU'RE ALL FUCKING MISTAKES THAT ARE IN MY WAY!" A 10 year old Drew couldn't stand to see his brother get pummeled like this! It was even worse than any time before! With an ounce of bravery, Drew ran up to his Father and yelled,
"STOP IT, DAD!" He balled up a fist and slugged him good in the face, but it barely fazed him. Drew's skin went pale, regretting what he had done. Brandon laughed slightly and grabbed Drew by his throat.
"You think you're tough you little bitch!?" Brandon yelled. He punched Drew in the face and broke his nose. He laid there on the floor crying. Kenzi couldn't watch and turned away, crying as well. "GET UP!" He dragged Drew up by his arm and almost pulled it out of his socket. "Hit me! HIT ME!" Before any more damage could be done, he felt something bite him on the back of his leg.
"AGHH!" Brandon screamed in pain. It was Landon who had seen his brother in trouble. He didn't want to see Drew get hurt too. Brandon turned around and screamed, "THAT'S FUCKING IT!" He picked Landon up by the throat and took him to the kitchen.
"NO!" Drew screamed. His mother held Kenzi in her arms, trying to comfort her the best she could.
"It's okay, Baby.." she whispered. "The police are on their way.." But then something bone chilling was heard throughout the whole house.
"AHHHHHHH!" It was a scream of absolute sorrow and pain from Landon, coming from the kitchen!
"LANDON!" Drew's mom yelled for him.
Then there was silence…
Brandon walked out of the kitchen with Landon's bloodsoaked corpse. He dropped it on the ground in front of everybody.
"Oh Jesus.. Jesus Christ.. My baby.." His Mom muttered. She only grabbed him and held him in her arms. Drew and Kenzi look at him crying miserably. They had lost their brother.. They had lost him to this MONSTER that was their Dad..
The door to the house was kicked open and footsteps were heard storming into the house.
"IT'S THE POLICE! PUT YOUR HANDS UP, NOW!" A police officer yelled at Brandon. Brandon compiled, his expression blank. The officer cuffed him and read him his rights as they exited the house. Drew and Brandon exchanged glances, his father's looking that of no sympathy whatsoever.. He had murdered his own son in cold blood.. Drew had lost his brother forever..
I was absolutely mortified! The memories were clear as day! It was almost as if it had just happened.. I tried to just walk away once more. I couldn't let anyone see me like this.
"I have to go.." I quietly said.
Jack didn't respond. He only watched as I walked off.
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Hera's POV
"Joel we can't stay here forever you know!"
"And why not?" Joel asked, crossing his arms. "Hera I understand, but this place is the closest thing to a home that we have right now! I don't want you to screw this up just if you get angry at what their doing here! Just try to keep your mouth shut please." Joel pleaded.
"I'm not just talking about the empire Joel! I don't give a shit about the empire!"
"What then? What are you saying?" Joel demanded.
I put my hood up and scarf around my nose and mouth and left the room, curtly saying,
"I'm going to look for more plants!"
I exited the room into the main square of the empire. I climbed over the rubble and squeezed past the broken gates. I then walked around the outer wall of the empire picking and examining the flowers and weeds in the area.
"Goddamn him. We have had this conversation over and over again and he still doesn't get that I need to leave.." I mumbled under my breath.
Dinolion92: So that was the chapter folks! Hope you enjoyed it. And we also got to learn more about Jack and Drew's pasts.
LionKingIsAwesome: Yeahh, so.. pretty fucked up I gotta say XD But I was going for a tragic backstory and have a reason why Drew is so visibly upset and afraid of being a horrible father to Adia. He doesn't want to become his biological Dad.. What will become of all this? Stay tuned.. ;)