GRADUATION
Harlan raced down the nearly deserted halls of Starcademy. The majority of the students were in class, or relaxing in the biosphere, leaving the way clear for Harlan's mad dash. Rounding a corner at top speed, he neatly avoided a small group of Uranusians and headed into a nearby classroom.
Catalina and Clito were carefully mixing chemicals in the lab and Harlan slowed enough to keep from running over the tables and chairs. He slid to a stop and slammed the paper he had been carrying down. The vials shook, spilling liquid onto the table and Catalina lifted up her safety goggles to glare at Harlan.
"Now look what you did," Cat said. "We've been working for hours to get this right."
"Sorry," Harlan grinned, "but you have to see this."
Still annoyed at Harlan, Cat snatched up the paper and read. Her eyes grew wide with surprise and she smiled brightly.
"We passed? We're StarDogs?" Cat gasped.
"It appears so," said Clito as she read the note.
Catalina let out a whoop and grabbed Harlan in a giant hug. The two danced around the room as Clito watched in amusement.
"Graduation is in a few weeks," Harlan said as they danced. "People from all over UPP space are coming here to look for ensigns." He paused and looked up, as if reading his name in lights. "Captain Harlan Band, StarDog."
"Calm down, Captain," Catalina said. "According to the sheet, you still need three credits to graduate, which means you have to pass all the courses you're currently failing."
Harlan's smile faded and he turned to look at his friends. He sighed and left the room.
"That was mean," Clito told Cat.
Cat shrugged. "Not really. He wants to be a Captain so badly, he'll actually start working to pass. It's for his own good."
Clito looked at the door where Harlan had just left. "Maybe you're right, but Earther emotions are different from Saturnian."
**********
The throne room was draped in the black cloth of mourning. The great Spung Emperor Biket IV had been assassinated and the entire Spung empire was in turmoil. Although Warlord Shett was the heir to the throne, several lesser Spung lords had accused Shett of the murder of Biket. Spung law forbids the ascension of the previous Emperor's killer to the throne and therefore, Shett's claim was in jeopardy. A small band of rebellious Spung had also put forward the departed sirrola as a likely candidate for the throne, a fact which worried the lesser lords. Female or not, Elmira still had royal blood and, if she could win the majority to her favour, could become the next ruler of the Spung empire.
**********
Elmira worked in her garden on the small moon of Tethys, where the UPP had granted her asylum. Since leaving Starcademy at the end of the Spung Invasion, Elmira had been living in seclusion and enjoying it. She still had her visions, most of which she recorded for future reference, but felt at peace and relaxed now that no one demanded the future from her.
The video phone inside her small house rang. Standing, Elmira brushed the dirt off the knees of her blue overalls and swept her hair away from her face. Quickly, she went inside.
"Hello?" She said, answering her phone.
"Sirrola," someone said. The image was broken, but Elmira was certain her caller was Spung. "The Emperor . . . dead. Come . . . Shett . . . claim the throne. Meet me . . . Delta field, asteroid three, tomorrow. Please . . . "
The image died. Elmira sat back to think about what she had just heard. Her uncle was dead and her brother wanted the throne. Elmira knew the UPP would be no match for the entire Spung fleet and if Shett gained the throne, he would bring the fleet into UPP space. Elmira picked up the recorder she used to tape her visions and listened to the most recent prophecies.
"Might will fall, peace in space. Legend's leader lead the race."
Elmira thought back to the myth that a Spung oracle would help bring the Spung to a higher level of existence. She listened to the next prophecy.
"Always alone, never in hate, greatest enemy becomes only escape."
"Delta field, asteroid three, tomorrow," Elmira whispered to herself.
**********
Radu smiled at the image of his sister, Arista. They had been talking for hours after Radu had found out he would be graduating. His entire family had promised to attend the ceremony and Radu once again reflected on how nice it was to be loved.
"The Governor of Andromeda has stepped down," Arista was saying. "The elections for the new leader are in a few days."
"Anyone sympathetic to the New Andromeda colony?" Radu asked, referring to his family's underground community.
"Just one," Arista replied. "Me."
Radu grinned. "Congratulations."
"Not yet," Arista said. "Wait until I've won."
Radu's video phone beeped, signaling an incoming call. Radu said good bye to his younger sister and switched signals. He was surprised and delighted at the face that appeared.
"Elmira!" Radu said.
"Hello, Radu," Elmira replied. "I need to ask you a favour."
"Anything," Radu promised.
Elmira smiled. "Good. I'll pick you up tomorrow morning."
The image on the screen faded, leaving Radu wondering what he had volunteered to do.
**********
Elmira piloted her small craft towards the large asteroid field located at the UPP/Spung border. Radu navigated their way through the field, suppressing a tired yawn. They had left Starcademy before daybreak and had been flying for hours to reach the border.
"We're in the Delta field," Radu said. "Where to now?"
"Asteroid three," Elmira answered. She turned to Radu and put her hand on his. "Thank you for coming."
Radu blushed. "Y – you're welcome."
In another few minutes, they had reached the asteroid. Radu spotted another ship and, as they landed, Elmira hailed them. A young male Spung's image appeared on the screen.
"Sirrola," he said. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Your message seemed urgent," Elmira replied.
The Spung's eyes darted to Radu before returning to Elmira. "Can your slave be trusted?"
Radu frowned and Elmira put a reassuring hand on his. "He is not a slave, but a trusted friend."
The Spung nodded, but Radu continued to feel his hostility.
"I am Dirge," he said, "leader of the rebellion. I have come to ask you to return to the Spung homeworld and claim your rightful place as Empress of the Spung."
**********
There was a knock at the door. Bova tore his eyes away from his most recent experiment and stood to answer it. Before he could reach the door, it flew open and Rosie came in. She threw herself into his arms and hugged him close. Bova returned the embrace, smiling to himself.
"Oh, Bova, isn't it great? We're graduating!" Rosie said.
"Terrific," Bova replied. "We'll leave Starcademy and never come back or see each other again."
"We'll keep in touch," Rosie promised.
"Yeah, sure," Bova muttered.
Rosie sat down on a nearby chair and Bova returned to his experiment. After a few minutes of silence, Rosie spoke up again.
"Have you gotten any placement offers yet?" she asked.
"A few," Bova answered.
"I got one for a position as an ensign on Starbase 7, working in the medlab," Rosie said. "They said my experience on the Christa and during the war puts me well ahead of most of the other cadets."
"I got an offer for Starbase 7 too," Bova said, "as a research assistant."
"You should take it," Rosie exclaimed. "Then we'd be together!"
Bova turned away to conceal his smile.
**********
Elmira paced back and forth in the small ship. Radu watched her from where he sat, wondering what she was thinking. Dirge had pleaded his case, begging her to return with him. The situation, as he had explained it, was desperate. With Shett as the new Emperor, the entire empire would be locked in continuous war. The lesser lords, Dirge assured, were all incompetent. The missing sirrola was the only hope for the Spung, and the majority of the Spung population agreed.
Elmira turned abruptly in her pacing to face Radu. "What do you think?" she asked.
"Do what you think is best," Radu answered. "I'll always be here for you."
Elmira nodded and hailed Dirge.
"I accept," she told him. "Radu and I will follow your ship to the Spung homeworld."
"Sirrola, is bringing an Andromedan wise?"
"He is my protector," Elmira replied. "Do not treat him as a slave for as my protector, he is given the ranking of a lesser lord."
Dirge stiffened. "As you command, Sirrola," he said icily.
"Will our transmissions not be intercepted?" Elmira asked. "What we propose is treason."
"This asteroid releases its own magnetic field that hides us from scanners, Sirrola," Dirge explained. "Now, let us return home. We still need a majority of the lesser lords to make you empress."
Elmira nodded and ended the transmission. She sat on Radu's lap and put her arms around his neck.
"What do you think of that, my Lord Protector?" she asked.
"I think this is going to be tricky," Radu replied. He shook his head in disbelief. "An Andromedan with a high rank in a Spung court."
"Stranger things could happen," Elmira replied.
**********
Catalina and Harlan sat in the cafeteria. Neither of them had said anything about graduation since that day in the lab and it appeared as if both had forgotten about it.
"Have you seen Radu lately?" Cat asked.
Harlan nodded. "He left early yesterday morning on some important mission. I think he mentioned Elmira's name, too."
Catalina mouthed a silent "oh" and returned to her food.
"Harlan Band and Catalina, please report to Principal Ravenshire immediately," the intercom blared.
"I wonder what this is about," Catalina said.
Harlan shrugged as the two cadets rose and left the cafeteria.
**********
Principal Ravenshire sat at her desk with three men sitting in front. As Cat and Harlan entered, the men turned.
The man on the far left was tall with dark skin and dark hair. He stood and the cadets immediately snapped to attention and saluted.
"Admiral Cody, sir!" they said in unison.
The Admiral returned their salute and smiled. "At ease. Harlan, Catalina, there are people here you should meet."
The second man stood and smiled. He was of average height with pale skin and red hair. He wore the uniform of a StarDog Captain. His green eyes sparkles as he held out his hand to Harlan.
"Harlan Band, this is Captain Davies of the Excaliber," Admiral Cody said.
Harlan saluted, then returned the handshake.
"Captain Davies is a fan of yours, Mr. Band," Ravenshire spoke up. "He has heard of your piloting skills on the Christa and as an Air Striker and wants you aboard."
"As a Captain's ensign," Davies added.
"But what about . . ?" Harlan began.
"Your outstanding credits, should you not pass your finals, will be disregarded in light of experience," Ravenshire said. "Congratulations. You're on your way to becoming a Captain."
Harlan smiled and pumped Captain Davies' hand.
"Thank you, sir," Harlan said. "You won't be disappointed."
Captain Davies only smiled. The remaining man cleared his throat.
"This is the Head of UPP Diplomatic Relations," the Admiral said. "Mr. Mandarian, from Saturn."
The Saturnian was tall with blue eyes, red, blue, and green hair and an orange, yellow, and purple beard. He held out his hand to Catalina, who shook it.
"I'm interested in your invisible friend, Suzee, and her dimension of Yensid," Mandarian said. "The UPP would like to set up trade and diplomatic relations with Yensid and we'd like you, Catalina, to be our ambassador."
Catalina smiled. "Me? Of course!"
"Excellent," Mandarian said. "The UPP has been able to create a portal to Yensid and, should the Yensidians agree to trade, a permanent doorway will be opened."
Catalina was beaming. "This is great!" She turned to the empty space beside her. "Suzee, you'll be able to visit whenever you want!"
Mandarian smiled.
"It's all agreed. You both will leave after the graduation ceremony in two weeks time. Until then, study hard for your finals," Ravenshire said.
Harlan and Cat saluted once more and left.
**********
Elmira docked her small craft at the landing bay on the small moonbase where the rebels lived. They were only a short hyper jump from the Spung homeworld and were anxiously preparing for the trial of Warlord Shett.
As was custom, anyone with a claim to the throne was to assemble before the lesser lords after the mourning period. The lesser lords then reviewed the merit of each claim and voted on who the next ruler would be. A majority vote was all the rebels needed to place Elmira on the imperial throne.
The Sirrola disembarked, with Radu following close beside her. The Andromedan had changed out of his Starcademy uniform and was now wearing a deep blue shirt and gray trousers. His hair was tied back, revealing his Andromedan features. The rebels who had assembled to greet their future Empress looked at him warily, but Elmira met each look with a stern glare, daring any of them to question her judgement.
"Welcome, Sirrola," Dirge said.
Elmira nodded her head in acknowledgment and Dirge bowed deeply. He glared at Radu on his way back up and the Andromedan licked his lips nervously. He wished he felt as confident as Elmira.
"What preparations are yet to be made?" Elmira asked.
"We have gained the favour of three lesser lords, Sirrola," a Spung rebel piped up.
"Good work," Elmira replied, "but there are ten lesser lords. We need at least six votes. How long do we have, Dirge?"
"Four days, Sirrola."
"Not nearly enough time," the sirrola mused. "Anything else?"
"We fear rebellion if you are named Empress," the same rebel said. "Your life may be at risk."
Elmira patted Radu fondly on the hand. "That is why I have my Lord Protector. He is your equal and, in many ways, your superior. Treat him as such."
"Yes, Sirrola," the rebels agreed, although Radu could clearly hear the bitter undertones to their words.
Elmira nodded. "Shall we go inside?"
**********
Bova and Rosie toured the facilities of Starbase 7. They had both been granted a small leave of absence from classes to review their choices for placement after graduation.
Starbase 7 was an outpost for the UPP, located at the edge of the SOL system. It was far from any habitable planet and it took almost a week to reach Pluto. Rosie was worried that it would be too cold a climate for her, but had been reassured by the base's commander that the necessary temperature arrangements would be met. The Starbase was used for refueling as well as for a military base should it be necessary. Mostly, passing ships would stop for a few days of rest, to pick up supplies, refuel their ship, or attend to their wounded or sick. At the moment, the UPP had based a research team on the Starbase to determine the nature of a nearby spatial anomaly. It was to that team that Bova had been assigned.
"Well, what do you think?" Rosie asked after the commander had given them a brief tour.
Bova shrugged. "It's pretty close to home, not that I'd ever want to go back there again."
"Think of all the interesting people we'll meet."
"You'll meet," Bova corrected. "I'll be staring at a melting star all day."
"Oh, Bova," Rosie smiled. "You'll have some free time."
"Yeah, for sleeping and eating."
Rosie rolled her eyes, determined not to let Bova destroy her image of this place.
"I think it's great. I'm going to accept this placement."
Bova hesitated a second. "I guess I will too. No sense in leaving you alone out here."
Rosie smiled brightly and hugged her friend. Bova's eyes widened as Rosie's excited state raised her temperature.
"Ow!" he exclaimed. "Rosie, cool down! You're burning my uniform!"
**********
Catalina danced around the girl's dorm. She had been talking with both Suzee and Mandarian about her new ambassador status. Suzee was just as excited as she was at the prospect of being able to visit Catalina's dimension again. Although she'd never admit it, she missed the time she had spent on Cat's backwards dimension.
"Ambassador Catalina," Cat said for the millionth time.
Suzee rolled her eyes. "Stop that or you'll get sick of hearing it."
"I don't think I ever could," Cat smiled. "Have you met with the Elder's Council yet?"
"Cat, it's nearly midnight here and you only told me about this an hour ago. How could I have met the Elders already?"
"Oh yeah," Catalina said. "I wish it was morning on Yensid."
Suzee yawned. "I wish it was night where you are. Are you done talking so I can get some sleep?"
Cat blushed. "Sorry, Suzee. Good night."
"Night, Ambassador," Suzee replied with a smile.
**********
Harlan sat on deck with Captain Davies. The Captain had just finished giving Harlan a tour of the ship and Harlan was impressed. The Excaliber wasn't a fighter like he was used to, but an exploration ship. It would be gone from the SOL system for months at a time, with a crew of several hundred plus their families. Harlan felt a tingle of excitement every time he thought of commanding such a craft. They were unlikely to experience any difficulties, but being in command of so many people made his blood rush.
"Well, Mr. Band?" Davies asked.
"I can't wait, Captain," Harlan said. "What do I do?"
"You'll be shadowing me for a few months," Davies answered. "I'll fill you in on the procedures and politics of different races and things like that. In your free time, you'll be studying logs from this ship until you know her inside and out, all her strengths and weaknesses."
Harlan grimaced at the word study', but nodded.
"When we're on active duty on the bridge, I may ask your advise on certain situations, but don't feel too badly if I decide not to follow it. It takes a while for someone to get the feel of commanding. We'll also be running simulations for you on the holo projectors so you'll see what it's like making split second decisions."
Harlan smiled. "That sounds good."
Davies returned the grin. "Since our missions last for a long time, it shouldn't take you too long to get a feel for the ship. Placements have to last two years and I'll be sending regular reports to the UPP on your progress. When the two years are up, the UPP will assign you to another ship, probably as a First Officer. In no time, you'll be a Captain."
Harlan's smile broadened. "Captain Harlan Band."
"Right," Davies said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Now, you should get back to the school. Study hard for your finals."
Harlan saluted and left the bridge. Captain Davies watched him go and shook his head as he realized how much Harlan reminded him of his own youth.
**********
Elmira walked down the city streets of the Spung Homeworld, with Radu close behind. Radu wore a long cloak with a deep cowl that hid his features completely. No Spung, other than the rebels, knew he was Andromedan.
Elmira was on her way to the first meeting since the passing of her uncle. At this meeting, the lesser lords would interview everyone who had a claim to the throne and narrow the decision down. Dozens of Spung nobles, warlords, and soldiers were crowded around the palace, each demanding that they become emperor. As Elmira approached, the crowd of angry males seemed to melt away, clearing a path for the sirrola. She was dressed in a long, flowing blue gown and her hair was artfully arranged with diamonds and jewels to show her rank. She wore a gold necklace with a green emerald in it, given to her by the previous emperor.
Elmira didn't make eye contact with any of the other Spung assembled for the meeting, but remained regal and confident as she stepped up to the gate. The surprised guards recognized her and immediately admitted her into the palace grounds. Radu followed close behind.
The Council of the Lesser Lords was assembled in the throne room, with the empty throne behind the semi-circle of nobles. Elmira made her way to the center of the circle, Radu still at her side, and she waited. To her right was her brother, Warlord Shett, and to her left was her other main opponent, Lord Kairn. Shett smiled cruelly at his sister and Kairn seemed amused by her presence. The lesser lords, however, were not quite so amused.
"Who admitted this female into the Council?" one demanded.
"I am not just any female, my lord," Elmira said crisply. "I am the daughter of Warlord Shank, niece to Biket IV, and an oracle."
"You are still female and cannot rule," the lord replied.
"You forget the prophecy, my lord," Elmira said. "An oracle is destined to lead the Spung to a greater existence. How can you be certain I am not that oracle?"
"Fairy tales," another lord spat. "Childish stories."
"Maybe not," the Spung next to him said. "There is often truth in legend."
"You cannot listen to her," Shett cried. "She is a witch and will destroy the Spung!"
"You forget yourself," the first lord said. "You are not emperor yet and until then, we rule the Spung."
Shett glared at his sister, who remained standing perfectly still, staring straight ahead. Radu licked his lips as he watched things unfold. Shett's eyes narrowed and he nodded his head so slightly the move was barely perceived. Out of the shadows came a soldier wielding a long dagger. He cried out once and lunged himself at Elmira's unprotected back. Radu acted quickly. He grabbed the soldier's wrist and with a small twist, he broke it. He then took the Spung by the neck and squeezed until his eyes bulged out before throwing him to the floor where he lay, gasping for air.
The lesser lords said nothing.
"As you can see, my lords," Elmira said, "I will not be cast aside so easily. Consider this when you vote: I have seen the future and only I can keep what I've seen from happening. The Spung Empire will fall unless you chose me as your Empress."
With those final words, she turned and left the council. Radu followed, glancing down at the still gasping Spung who had tried to kill the sirrola.
**********
Elmira and Radu came into the streets just outside the palace. As they walked, Radu heard a deep rumbling from the lower levels of the city, where the majority of the population lived.
"I hear something," he whispered to Elmira. "Sounds like an enormous crowd."
Elmira took a deep breath to steel her nerves. "We will just have to get through them, my Lord Protector."
The two rounded a corner and came across a sea of Spung, without a friendly face in sight. Elmira looked over the crowd and saw Dirge's ship docked at the spaceport, waiting to take her and Radu back to the rebel base. She held Radu's hand tightly and looked back at him. He seemed so small, lost in the depths of the cowl, but she could sense his courage radiating.
"I love you," she whispered.
Radu squeezed her hand in reply and they attempted to push through the crowd.
"It's the witch!" someone cried.
The crowd began to chant: "Kill the witch! Kill the witch!"
Radu and Elmira struggled to reach the spaceport when the crowd began to throw things. Stones and pieces of wood and food came hurtling towards Elmira. Radu bent over her to shield her from the storm and, as he hurried her along, Elmira could hear Radu's sharp intake of breath every time he was hit.
The distance between them and the spaceport seemed to grow as the crowd became more violent. Small stones were being replaced with large rocks, and the wood and food were being exchanged for sharp pieces of metal. Radu did his best to push the crowd away from the sirrola, but it was difficult. Finally, Dirge appeared in front of them and the rebels began to open a corridor leading to the ship. The small projectiles continued to fly from the crowd and Elmira began to grow fearful. Suddenly, the protection she had received from Radu was gone as the Andromedan fell. Dirge grabbed Elmira's arm and directed her to the ship. Elmira fought him off and turned to make sure Radu was all right, only to find him standing a step behind her. He managed a weak smile as they boarded their escape and fled the angry Homeworld.
Radu collapsed on a seat and winced. Elmira sat in front of him and turned her chair around to face him. His face was paler than usual and sweat poured down his face. He looked very uncomfortable and his left hand was holding his right shoulder.
"Are you all right?" Elmira asked, knowing he was not.
"Fine," Radu gasped. "Are you hurt?"
Elmira shook her head. "Let me see."
Radu leaned forward and Elmira saw a piece of metal protruding from his shoulder. She gasped involuntarily and pulled it out. Radu inhaled sharply and Elmira bound the cut.
"Better?" she asked.
Radu managed a smile. "Much," he replied.
"How do you feel?"
"Like I've just been through a meteor shower."
Elmira returned the smile. "Rest. It appears I do not have as much support as Dirge led me to believe. We have only three days remaining and I do not think the population supports me."
Radu didn't answer. Elmira looked over at him and saw he was sleeping peacefully. She picked up a blanket from the floor and draped it over him, kissing his cheek softly.
"Good night, my protector," she whispered.
**********
Radu woke and found himself in his bed in the Spung rebel base. He threw off his blanket and saw that he was stripped to the waist and that his arm had been bandaged. Raising his left hand, he touched his shoulder gingerly and winced. It had been cleaned and bandaged, leaving his right arm strapped uselessly to his body until his shoulder was healed. Radu took a deep breath and found his lungs and ribs hurt. Looking down at his chest, he saw his body was a map of cuts and bruises from the beating he had taken. He knew he would heal quickly, but for the moment, the pain was present.
Radu stood and tried to put on his shirt, only to find the process to difficult. He sighed and left the room to find Elmira.
He found her with Dirge and several other rebels in the meeting room, speaking quietly as they sat at the long table. Elmira raised her head as Radu entered and she went to his side. She touched his arm gently and the throbbing increased in his shoulder. He smiled at her.
"You slept well?" Dirge asked politely.
Radu nodded and joined Elmira at the head of the table. Elmira sat and Radu stood behind her.
"What is our status?" Elmira asked.
"The people are demanding leadership," Dirge said. "We face open rebellion if an emperor is not selected soon."
"The lesser lords have not yet made their votes," another Spung named Xemo added. "We have only four votes with five in favour of Shett, and one for Kairn. We must receive two more votes for a majority."
Elmira nodded thoughtfully. "Perhaps it is time for Lord Kairn and I to meet." She turned to Dirge. "Why does Kairn want to be emperor? He is a lesser noble and I'm sure he knows he could never win against a Warlord."
Dirge looked shocked. "I admit, sirrola, the thought had never crossed my mind."
Xemo spoke up. "He is there to give our people hope. Since Shett has been accused of murder, the law commands that he be elected to the office. Kairn is serving as the opposition."
The other Spung muttered their agreement. Elmira waited calmly until the noise had diminished before standing. The other rebels turned to her.
"I believe an alliance can be made," Elmira said. "I will contact Kairn. If we can join forces, we will be able to beat Shett."
"Sirrola," Dirge protested, "the lords would grant the throne to Kairn, not you."
"Perhaps," Elmira said, "perhaps not."
Always alone, never in hate, greatest enemy becomes only escape.
**********
Catalina and Mandarian stood in the visitor's quarters of Starcademy. Suzee was presenting her case to the Elders and both she and Catalina were anxious to hear the Yensidian's decision. Catalina was telling Mandarian everything that was happening as Suzee spoke.
"Suzee's made her presentation to the public court," Catalina said. "There are representatives from every order, but the Elders will have the ultimate decision."
"Who is in our favour?" Mandarian asked.
"Suzee's mother, Clara, is speaking for the Healers. She's met Rosie and is eager to share medical knowledge with the UPP. There's a man named Jayar speaking for the Merchants and they're excited as well. The Guiders are concerned that they'll become obsolete if our dimensions are breached and the Artists don't want Yensidian culture disturbed."
"So, we're half and half?"
Cat shrugged. "Kind of. The Scientists and Officials aren't committing either way. If we can get the Elders to agree, we're set, but they do take into consideration all the other guilds."
Mandarian paused for a moment to collect his thoughts. "If we offered some security to the Artists that we would not compromise their culture, would they agree?"
Cat repeated the question to Suzee. After a pause, Suzee replied.
"Suzee says she thinks the Artists would agree, but how would we enforce the offer?"
"By not allowing immigrants to settle in Yensid and by limiting the tourist trade," Mandarian replied.
Cat told Suzee and she smiled. "We have the Artists and the Elders are starting to agree."
"Excellent," Mandarian smiled. "We'll have a job for you in no time, Ambassador."
Catalina felt excitement bubbling up inside her again as she turned to listen to the rest of Suzee's presentation.
**********
Clito hummed to herself as she examined her plants in the botanical garden she and Professor Oakly had set up during Clito's first years at Starcademy. Since then, the small garden had grown into a relative jungle, with other students helping to keep it neat. It was used for research in biology classes as well as a place to grow certain vegetables only found on certain planets, for some of the more exotic cadets at the school. Clito stepped back and admired the garden for what she expected to be the final time. After graduation, she would be leaving Starcademy and probably never returning.
The doors opened and Catalina came running in. Clito could tell by her smile that she had good news. Cat flew through the garden, brushing vines and flowers out of her way and stopped breathless in front of Clito.
"Guess what?" Cat asked.
"The Yensidians agreed to open trade?" Clito guessed.
Catalina frowned. "You were supposed to guess wrong!"
"Sorry."
Cat stepped back from her friend and help her arms open. "You're looking at the new Yensidian Ambassador of the UPP."
"Congratulations!" Clito exclaimed, embracing her friend. "That's terrific!"
"The only catch is I have to set up office in Yensid," Cat replied. "It's no big deal, since I've lived there before, but I won't see you guys as often."
"I know how you feel," Clito said, sitting on a stool by a lab table. "I just got word from Fenton on Neptune. My mother is dead and my sister, Amphitrite, has abdicated the throne and fled the planet."
"That means – " Cat began.
Clito nodded. "I'm the new Queen of Atlantica. My transport leaves after graduation for the coronation."
Catalina sat next to her friend. "Harlan will be in space on the Excaliber, I'll be in Yensid, Rosie and Bova will be on Starbase 7, you'll be ruling Atlantica, and no one knows where Radu's disappeared to. It looks like the space cases are breaking apart, once and for all."
**********
Lord Kairn was escorted into the meeting room. Elmira was already seated at the head of the table, dressed in regal blue robes and holding her head high. Radu remained in his usual position behind her, his wounds healed. He fixed Kairn with a steady gaze, as if daring him to attack Elmira. Kairn returned the gaze coolly and sat at the table, his own guards behind him.
As far as Spung go, Kairn was handsome. He was thin and muscular, with brown eyes and a light green complexion. He dressed in the common attire of a lesser noble, with a shiny breastplate on his chest to show his status as a warrior. He bowed to Elmira and she inclined her head in greeting.
"Welcome, Lord Kairn," Elmira said.
"Sirrola," Kairn replied. "Why have you summoned me?"
"I seek what is best for the Spung," Elmira began. "With my brother on the throne, the safety and security of the Empire would be compromised by his desire for war. Eventually, the Spung would perish and the Empire collapse. I want to stop that before it happens."
"But you are female," Kairn objected. "Even if you were to beat out Shett, the people would not accept a female emperor."
"Empress," Elmira corrected. "That is where you come in, my lord. I wish to form an alliance between us. I have been told that you do not desire the throne, but have intentions similar to mine."
Kairn nodded. "It is true that I would not like perpetual war in our Empire, but asking me to allow a female to take the throne is unthinkable."
"I am an oracle," she said. "I have see the future of the Spung Empire with the next emperor. I do not know if that emperor is you, or Shett, but I know the result will be the same."
Kairn laughed. "Fairy tales," he said.
Elmira threw a handful of sparkly dust in the air. Her head lolled forward and she seemed to have fallen into a deep sleep. Radu watched her warily. Suddenly, her head came up and she stared at Kairn.
"Pestilence, famine, death, and disease, war with out cause and slowest of speeds. Sorrow, depression, lost and alone, these things will pass should an emperor seize the throne."
Elmira's head fell forward again. Kairn blinked as he repeated the prediction in his mind. Elmira sat up and took a deep breath. She pushed a button next to her chair and the prophecy repeated itself.
"I have never been wrong before, my lord," Elmira said.
Kairn nodded. "I do not doubt that, sirrola. Perhaps we should talk more about this alliance."
**********
Harlan, Catalina, Clito, Rosie, and Bova stood in a long line that stretched down the halls of Starcademy and into the cafeteria. The graduating class was being fitted for robes for the upcoming ceremony and placements were being finalized by teachers and councilors. Harlan bounced up and down with impatience as the line slowly moved ahead. He had been spending all his free time with Captain Davies aboard the Excaliber and was becoming more and more excited about his placement.
"Has anyone heard from Radu?" Catalina asked suddenly. "He should be here."
"I got a message from him yesterday," Rosie said. "He's at the Spung Homeworld with Elmira helping her become the next Empress."
Harlan laughed. "Now that's something I never thought I'd hear."
"Will he be back in time for the ceremony?" Clito asked.
Rosie shrugged. "I hope so. He said Elmira should know if she won or not in the next few days. Graduation is next week, so he should be back in time."
"If not, I guess we'll never see him again," Bova said. "Everyone's leaving right after graduation."
Bova's casual remark silenced the group. While they were all excited about starting their new careers, none of them felt ready to end this part of their lives.
"Next," someone called.
Harlan stepped up to get his measurements taken for the graduation robe, all the while wondering how his life was going to change.
**********
Radu paced outside the meeting room. Elmira and Kairn had been hammering out the details of their alliance for the past three hours, without anyone else's input. Dirge had long since given up waiting and had gone down to the Spung Homeworld to try and rally more people to Elmira.
The doors finally opened and Kairn came out, looking pleased. He motioned to his guards to follow him, bowed once to Elmira, and made his way to the docking bay. Elmira stood in the doorway and watched him leave. Radu moved to her side.
"Well?" he asked.
Elmira nodded. "We only need one other vote to secure my throne. Kairn has agreed to let me rule as Empress."
Radu smiled and hugged Elmira tightly. Elmira returned the embrace somewhat hesitantly before pushing herself free. Radu stepped back and the sirrola marched down the hallway to her quarters, leaving a confused Andromedan behind.
**********
Two days later, the lesser lord called council to announce their decision. Shett, Elmira, and Kairn stood on the balcony of the Imperial Palace, overlooking a large crowd of Spung. The lesser lords introduced each of the candidates and motioned for silence.
Radu stood behind Elmira, dressed in a black uniform that was not unlike his Starcademy one. He watched Shett carefully, expecting him to attack Elmira at any time. Kairn also watched Elmira, only Radu thought he saw a self satisfied smirk on the noble's face.
"Citizens of the Spung," the Council leader announced, "it is with great honour that I proclaim our new monarch to be Sirrola Elmira, Imperial daughter of Warlord Shank."
The crowd booed and began to yell cat calls as Elmira stepped forward to be recognized. There were, however, some cheers, indicating that not all Spung were opposed to a female ruler.
"The time of prophecy is upon us," the Council leader continued. "With an oracle to lead and guide us, the Spung shall rise to a higher level of existence, where we will benefit and prosper."
One of the lesser lords placed the crown on Elmira's head and she looked coolly down at her people. Shett stood in the corner, fuming, and Radu continued to watch him carefully.
Elmira held up her hands and the crowd quieted. "Fellow Spung," she said. "Think of me not as a female who has stolen the crown, but as the first ruler of the Golden Age of the Spung, who will bring peace and prosperity to our Empire."
The crowd cheered. Shett stared at his sister for another minute, then turned and left the balcony.
**********
Elmira moved into the Imperial Palace immediately. She appointed Dirge as her Prime Minister and gave the other rebels high offices as well. She occupied the rooms she had once had under her uncle and had begun to reform the Spung society at once.
Radu found her sitting in her throne room, talking quietly with Lord Kairn. The Empress looked unhappy at something Kairn was saying, and Radu cleared his throat politely to get their attention. Elmira looked up and smiled.
"I have to be going, Elmira," Radu said. "I had no idea your favour would last this long."
Elmira laughed. "Thank you, Radu, and I hope after your graduation you will consider returning here and remaining Lord Protector."
"Perhaps, your Majesty," Radu said with a bow.
Elmira rose and walked over to him. Before he could say a word, she kissed him passionately on the mouth. She broke away and looked at him.
"Remember, our destiny is to be together," she whispered. "Never forget."
Radu nodded dumbly and turned to leave
**********
"Welcome, graduating class!"
The cadets cheered as Principal Ravenshire tried to deliver her speech. Radu sat between Harlan and Rosie, watching the principal speak. He knew that a few rows behind him, his parents and sister were also watching and were very proud of him.
The ceremony lasted several hours, with numerous speeches and award presentations before the diplomas were given out. The entire class then met in the cafeteria for a small party as a final farewell to Starcademy.
Radu stood with Catalina and Clito, watching the people mingle. His parents were speaking with Admiral Cody who was congratulating Arista on becoming the new Governor of New Andromeda. Still, in light of everything that had happened, Radu was happy.
"So, Elmira's the new Empress of the Spung?" Catalina said.
Radu nodded. "The people don't seem too pleased, though. I'm going to go back there until she has everything under control."
"When do you leave for Yensid?" Clito asked.
"I'm going to Starbase 4 to help set up the portal tomorrow," Cat said. "Once it's stable, I'll be leaving for good."
"Remember to call before you go," Clito said.
Cat nodded. "Of course."
Harlan came over to join the small group with his mother. Mrs. Band held her son's arm tightly, her face glowing with pride.
"My baby's a StarDog," she said, "and will soon be a Captain, just like his father."
"Mom," Harlan groaned.
In a small, quiet corner of the party, Rosie and Bova were talking. Of their group of space cases, they were the only ones who would remain together. Bova sipped his drink and cleared his throat nervously. Rosie turned to look at him.
"Uh, Rosie?" he stammered. "I was wondering, well, since we're going to the same place and all . . . "
"What is it, Bova?"
"I just wanted you to know that . . I think you're the greatest, Rosie and when you met Mattar, I thought I would lose you forever."
Rosie blinked back a tear at the mention of Matter, the Mercurian who had died saving her from Warlord Shett. Bova blushed when he saw that mentioning Matt had made her sad. He took her hand in his and looked into her eyes.
"I don't want to almost lose you again, Rosie. I care about you too much."
Rosie smiled. "I care about you, too, Bova. Ever since that first day on the Christa when you dove down the jumptubes to try and save me."
Bova returned the smile and held Rosie's hand tighter. Around them the party continued, but they were oblivious to it, caught up in their own happiness.
**********
Radu waved good bye to Catalina as her transport left Starcademy. The Excaliber had left a few hours earlier and Clito, Rosie, and Bova had gone the previous day. Radu's family had left right after the graduation after Radu had explained what he had to do. Udar had left him a small ship as a present and Radu had discovered that he could live aboard it quite comfortably for long periods of time. Now, Radu took one last, lingering look at Starcademy before boarding his ship and leaving the school forever.
As he flew to the Spung Homeworld, he tuned into the UPP Spatial News Report that was broadcast all over UPP space.
"And in other news, the Spung Empire has a new ruler. Sirrola Elmira, daughter of the dreaded Warlord Shank, has taken the throne of the Spung. The UPP has high hopes that this ruler will respond to UPP peace offers more readily than previous rulers. The new Empress, who is being wed this afternoon, was once . . "
Radu blinked and stared at the radio. Elmira getting married? He found that tears came to his eyes as he soared into Spung space.
"Unidentified vessel, state your purpose," a familiar voice said.
"Xemo?" Radu asked.
"My Lord Protector," Xemo said bitterly. "Nice of you to come back. I'm sure the Empress will be pleased."
"What's this I hear of Elmira being married?"
Xemo laughed. "You didn't think that you'd get to marry her, did you? An Andromedan and a Spung Empress? She has married Lord Kairn as was outlined in their alliance agreement."
Radu turned off the communications and turned his ship around. Elmira had known all along that she would have to marry Kairn. Was her affection towards Radu just pretend? Was she using him? Radu felt himself filling with anger towards the Spung as all his dreams of happiness were crushed.
He increased his speed and sped away from the Spung border as fast as possible, heading out into deep space, far from the UPP. As he flew, Radu hoped with all his heart that he would never see another Spung again, not even his beloved' Elmira.
END