Chapter 29
"Fascinating, Commander Devorak," the Emperor said. "They are human. What do we know about their species?"
"They are a bipedal, primitive race. Yet, there are some that possess the power of magics, Sir," Devorak said.
"Um. Any reasonable level of sophistication in that area? The Druids are quite advanced and quintessence is nothing to underestimate," the Emperor said, cupping his chin and jaw in his right hand as his long white hair fell over the right arm of his throne.
"With the proper training they can be brought up to an acceptable level of skill, Sir," Devorak said.
"Need I remind you, Commander Devorak, we are Galra. We do not have 'acceptable'. Excellence or nothing. Victory or death. You know this," the Emperor said.
"Yes, of course, Sir! In time they can be trained to meet the same level of skill as the Druids, Sir," Devorak said.
"Good, because we have nothing but time," the Emperor said. "What are their dispositions? How can we break them?"
"The Minister is powerful in their magics. They trust him as their leader. He possesses many of the qualities valued by us," Devorak said.
"Such as?" the Emperor asked.
"Power, diligence, tenacity. He will choose victory or death, Sir. We believe it is his traumatic childhood that makes him such an excellent warrior and protector of the defenseless. It is this – his value of the lives of others that we can use to bend him to our will, Sir." Devorak said.
"I see, good. And the other one?" the Emperor asked.
"He is crafty and has a generous share of hubris. He…cares for the Minster, Sir. It is his – concern – for the Minster that we can use to break him," Devorak said.
"Excellent work, Commander. Well done," the Emperor said.
"Thank you, Sir," Devorak said.
"What is the name of their home planet?" the Emperor asked.
"Their planet is called Earth," Devorak said.
"How long will it take to get there?" the Emperor asked.
"Five quintents, Sir," Devorak said. "Shall I prepare a fleet?"
"No. I will open our Teludav for you. I expect their Minster of Magic and the – what is the title of the other one?" the Emperor asked.
"Erm," Devorak said, as he brought up the information on his ray screen that was in front of him. "He is the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir."
"Yes. I expect them here, in my throne hall, within 30 vargas, Commander. I want this done quietly. I suggest you do it when they are both in the same place, alone. You can get them both at the same time and no one will see your men take them," the Emperor said.
"Yes, Sir. That was my plan. It will be done, Sir," Devorak said.
"Vrepit sa," the Emperor said.
"Vrepit sa!" Devorak said, striking his chest.
