Finally the coronation. Hope this works and is not too corny especially the song part (just imagine a cool hymn type music). Just wanted to find a way to show why these people felt such an immediate connection to Sheppard as they strongly remember the sacrifices made by his ancestors. Also imagine the whole coronation being said in an Ancient/Latin variant. No way I was going to tackle that one.
Chapter 9 Coronation
"I will NOT have people bowing to their knees with their heads to the floor then pledging their allegiance and lives to me!" Sheppard said angrily to the two men. He already had this discussion with Saphides, but now Sophistides and Samsus were on him about tradition and an unbroken ceremony for all kings and queens even before Evander. He looked at them suspiciously. Why had he not figured it out before? Of course they were brothers. That had not told him this, but they were always one step ahead of him. He brought his wandering mind back to focus. The coronation was in the morning and he just could not suffer the fact that he was going to go through a ceremony that would out do the crowning of any king on Earth.
Sam and Yoda stared at him but said nothing so he took that as a sign to continue ranting. "I will not do it. I will not be treated like I am somebody to be held above the others. It is different to be a leader. We salute, we show proper respect, and maybe we call them sire or your royal highness but we DON'T have people on their knees devoting themselves to me!!" He sat in the chair. They had been discussing this for over 10 minutes, with him basically ranting and them just listening. Yoda had not even tried to get in his brain. They still had their daily sessions, but they had not talked about being King or the ceremony until now. But the old man had gotten to know him better than anyone else. He sighed tiredly. "Besides, I am not anyone special. I'm…I'm just a pilot." He had said his peace.
There was silence for a moment then Sophistides was upon him. The force of his voice surprised Sheppard. "You are not special? You are not special? Yet you want to be treated special! You want YOUR people to change a tradition that has lasted generations even before your ancestor Evander and has not been instituted since then. They have waited to do this for generations, and you will just sweep it away because you do not want to." Sheppard stubbornly looked away from him like a petulant child but the old man continued. "YOUR people have waited for Evander's heir. It cannot be helped that it is you. But it is. You have your information, and gifts that you do not even know of yet. In time they will help you defeat the Wraith. But these people, and not just these Guardians, have kept a covenant made thousands of years ago and now you want to dishonor them by changing a sacred tradition! I did not figure you one to forgo your duty.
Sheppard looked at him angrily. "I don't forgo anything," he growled in measured staccato tone.
Yoda sat down in a nearby chair and Sam on the other side of him. "You could have fooled me."
Sheppard said nothing for a while. "The Wraith make you bow to your knees," he finally whispered.
Sam looked anxiously as Sophistides who sighed in understanding. The old man leaned in to Sheppard. and said gently, "You are not Wraith sire. You are a King and the best hope for their defeat. You ARE special. Your people will kneel before you as they pledge allegiance not just to you but to each other and the countless humans in this galaxy that suffer under the hands of the Enemy. Now that you are here, you can begin to put in place plans and use technology that has been mostly unavailable. We are all ready to help you do this."
Sam smiled at Sheppard and said quietly but earnestly, "They pledge their lives to you, because you too will pledge your life to them. You will kneel before them first. They may serve you sire, but you will be their servant. The coronation is not a way to exalt you above others but to humble yourself to them. As King there are many rewards, but many responsibilities. We will help you fight, but we will also help you to rest, recuperate so that you will be ready to fight again. The King suffers always above all others." And I know you are accustomed to suffering, Sophistides told him silently.
Sheppard looked at the old man angrily, then sighed finally in resignation. He would not destroy tradition. He felt trapped, but in a way his duty became clear to him. He could take what he gained and just run and never come back. He could also just give all these people a big slap in the face and ignore their ways, or he could accept the gift they were giving him and do what was right. He may not like it, or feel comfortable about it. The whole thing was sort of embarrassing, but he also knew the right path. "Okay. You win. I understand," he conceded, "Can I go to bed, now? Tomorrow is going to be a long day."
Sophistides nodded and stood up to leave as Sam was going to prepare Sheppard's bed.
"Sam, just leave it tonight. Tonight I am just John Sheppard and I ready my own bed…and thank you."
He bowed. "Yes, sire. I will see you in the morning." Sheppard reached his mind out to Sophistides, a skill he had been more purposefully practicing. And thank you too. He felt the old man smile in his mind. You are welcome, sire. I would have been concerned if you had readily accepted all of this. Now go to sleep."
Sheppard watched the brothers leave. Then he just went to bed. There was always a choice, no matter how dire. He realized then, that his whole reason for being was to be here in this galaxy doing what he had done, was doing and would do beginning tomorrow. He closed his eyes and started to drift off. Sleep, child. He heard not for the first time. But hearing things did not bother him anymore. He had a feeling of who it was. The same one who had come to his dreams weeks before.
Maybe it would not be so bad after all. He knew he was fighting it, but he just could not figure out why. This place was comfortable. It's people familiar, and, within the castle walls, the city sang to him just like Atlantis. Full throttle John. No looking back. Do it well or don't do it at all.
oOoOoOoOoOoOo
Teyla could feel the electricity in the air as throngs of people flooded the streets in anticipation of the coronation.
She looked at Sheppard as he stared out the window. He turned and grinned at her. She saw that he was not afraid, not worried. Was he actually content? Had he accepted this?
He looked at her smiled. "You look great, Teyla." She had on a long cream dress that hugged her body but flowed freely.
"Thank you, John. How are you doing?" She knew what the answer would be.
"Oh, I'm good. The coronation is more for them than for me," he said looking out the window. She could not gauge his emotion right now.
Of this he was right. There was no denying that he was the heir that they sought. This was to please the masses. It was also to solidify the relationship between him and his people and really between this galaxy and the one he came from.
"I heard that there are representatives from each of your worlds. They had to draw lottery numbers to be able to attend," she said excitedly.
He nodded his head absently. He actually woke up rand eally did feel okay about this. After his discussion with Sam and Sophistides, he realized there really was no honorable way out. He literally just did not want all this attention. However, although this was not what he imagined, not what he wanted, he had made a decision and he would be happy about it. He made a point to not question those after they were made.
He heard a chime at the door. Sam entered. "It is time, Your Royal Highness." Full throttle.
He wished he could do away with that part.
He wore simple black pants, boots and a white tunic. This was the simplest he had ever looked since being here. They proceeded to the temple. What God did these people believe in? What an odd time to think of it. He believed in God, was raised Catholic or at least went to Church with his mother, so that was part of him even though he did not practice here in Pegasus and talk to anyone about it. He shook his head. Jeez…Why the hell am I thinking of this now? He was aware of throngs and throngs of people. This was certainly going to be an intimate affair. Sheppard remembered what Sophistides and Sam had said. He would be humbled before them.
He was vaguely aware of music of some sort. They walked up to the dais in the courtyard about 50 feet away from the statue. Why had he not noticed that before? It was large. There were hundreds of people in the courtyard and tons more watching outside of the walls. Did he miss the memo on this? He let out a soft snort as he smiled. Yeah, he ignored the memo on this.
He and Sophistides walked up the steps of the dais behind the four Guardians. Wow Yoda looked impressive in all of his garb.
Thank you, came the reply, and Sheppard smiled. Damn him. He saw the small urn. Son of a bitch! He forgot about that memo as well. He was going to get branded not just once but four times to complete the symbol signifying his bond to them. How barbaric was that? He protested slightly as they discussed it but Saphides did not budge. Each of the Guardians carried a brand of their loyalty to the heir and their protection of his throne, but he would bare the mark of the protection for all. Sheppard had pushed it to the back of his mind to think about later...like now.
Teyla watched in amazement as Sheppard walked up the steps to where he would be crowned. She could not believe that her friend was the legend that her grandfather had spoken of. She thought of how appropriate his name was. Guardian of sheep.
Ronon had not been unsettled by this whole process. Although he knew Sheppard would struggle with such a role, Ronon felt that the man was made for such a thing. Sheppard was already a great warrior, but Ronon knew that in the last few weeks, Sheppard had become a greater warrior and wherever Sheppard decided to do battle, he would follow, whether here or Atlantis.
Weir looked over at Rodney who appeared fascinated and fearful all at the same time. He was the only one that she knew that could really pull off that look. She had not talked to John much about what had happened. She had let his team provide primary support. She knew that he was struggling or at least had struggled some. Her heart was in her throat as she saw Sheppard walk up the dais. The music was beautiful, and everyone was dressed in their finest. She wanted to laugh as she had seen Sheppard make his way to the dais. That untamable hair stuck out above the others since he was so much taller. She would soon find out how that hair would look crowned. The music stopped suddenly and Saphides began in solemn voice a welcome and introduction. First, the people would see Evander's line through the generations ending with the wild haired Air Force pilot.
Sheppard sat as his lineage was read in the ancient language. This was going to take forever. Approximately 500 names! A half hour later, when the names had been read, Sarik sang in tenor voice Ilian's Tears.
"She watched the stars every night through her tears and broken heart. Evander had gone to save them. She would wait a lifetime, to see him again, so Ilian cried.
She ruled and protected their people in his absence. A covenant formed between them. And she would wait, as her people would wait, for her love to return, so Ilian cried.
Her child was gone, taken as a babe, safe in his father's arms. Through him their hope would grow, But,she would wait a lifetime to see him, so Illian cried.
Their sacrifice through the ages, saved in the hearts of our people. Reunited in their rising they are together again. Their hope alive for our future.
Now the heir has returned as promised. Their sacrifice not in vain. The King of the new ages will free those living in fear. Her love has returned, and out of joy she cries."
Shalen raised his hands after the last note and slight pause. "I present unto you, your king as proven by his acts and his lineage. Do you, his people, come today to declare our homage and devotion to Evander's heir?" The crowd shouted in unison. "WE DO SHALL DECLARE!"
Caldwell felt a shiver run down his spine. That was impressive. He looked over at Weir and realized she had thought the same.
Sheppard stood and kneeled in front of Sophistides who began to sing/chant in Ancient. "Do you Evander's son accept the devotion of your people? Will you govern them according to the laws handed down for generations and count them as your brethren? Will you devote your life to protect them, and guide them wisely as they combat the Enemy of these stars?"
Teyla watched mesmerized as John sang/chanted back in a voice she did not know he possessed, "I do so swear to fulfill all of these and further promise if need be, to give my last breath for them."
Sophistides raised a sword above his head then placed it in Sheppard's right hand chanting again. "With this sword, he shall vanquish his enemies and exact justice across the land," He then raised a small sphere as he spoke, "And the knowledge of the Ancestors shall make him wise so that he may lead his people to victory and bring peace among the stars and end the suffering of millions," and placed in Sheppard's left.
More words and more prayers. Finally Sheppard stood. "John Sheppard, son of Evander, do you accept of your own free will The Crown Armentarii."
"I do."
Weir smiled. How appropriate. Ancient Arementarii meant of the Shepherds.
"Your royal name shall be Armentarius, and this is how your people will know you, for you are their shepherd. Receive now the mark to signify the covenant that you make with your people." A guardian took the sword and Eye as Sheppard moved to the center of the dais.
Teyla watched as the old man moved to the urn. She looked wide-eyed. Sheppard had not mentioned that they were going to brand him! Two of the Guardians removed the white tunic from Sheppard and he raised his arms facing north. Sophistides said something else then lowered the hot iron down to Sheppard's back and left shoulder. Sheppard closed his eyes, but no sound escaped his lips until he chanted, "People of Ilium, I am your humble servant." He kneeled down then lay down completely on his stomach with his face to the ground. He then raised himself and faced east and the process was repeated for the next planet Arcadia followed by Quidari, and Palladin. Each brand was part of the whole symbol.
When Sheppard stood after the last one, each of the four Guardians approached him. Shalen put a silk black tunic that fell below his waist to mid thigh on him then put a loose belt to hold it in place. She saw the dagger, which he removed from the chair weeks ago attached to the belt. Sauriko put a shimmering light silver robe over that garment. Sarik placed a large heavy darker green robe on him trimmed in brown on the edges. She could see his arms sway momentarily with the weight. Finally the Saphides handed him back the Eye and sword. He knelt once more. How she did not know. Sophistides stood behind him saying a prayer then slowly lowered a silver crown with green and brown jewels so small that they only cast a colorful refection of color as the light hit it. She realized then the colors of everything, the Eye, the stones in the dagger and in the crown all resembled the hazel color of Sheppard's eyes. There were more prayers and Sophistides was touching Sheppard with an oil of some sort. On his hands then his head. Sheppard rose easily then sat in a white thrown chair. She stared at him and realized that even though he was naturally tall, he actually looked more imposing and quite frankly, beautiful. She smiled at her own thought, but it was true. Her friend looked beautiful, if a man could be described that way. He just seemed to glow. She felt a knot in her throat as pride and hope swelled in her. She then watched as each of the Guardians took their turn to pay him homage. Saphides was first, kneeling low and placing his head briefly to the ground near Sheppard's feet. "King Armentarius, I and my line and all those whom I represent, pledge to you our devotion. If need be we will give you our last breath to you and to the cause that you determine just. We give our fealty to you and your heirs." After the guardians, many representatives from all the families pledged their loyalty to him.
Finally Sophistides came up to him and raised his hands. "The ring of the Armentarii has not been worn for thousands of years, left behind by King Evander for his heir. Your people have awaited patiently for you my lord. Wear this ring to symbolize the covenant you have made with them today. Let all who see this ring recognize that you are Armentarius, warrior king of the people of the Armentarii. Though we claim different worlds as our home, we are no longer Iliarians, Arcadians, Quidarians, or Palladins. We are Armentarii, united under you once again. May you conquer our enemies, govern wisely and be rewarded for your sacrifice. We beseech the great Protector of all to keep you safe from harm and provide courage in battle and light in darkness." He placed the ring on Sheppard's right hand and slowly backed away with his head bowed. Teyla noticed that the ring glowed slightly.
She heard music, then cheering as Sheppard rose out of the chair and made his way down the dais with the long green robe sliding behind him. There was to be a procession in the streets where he would greet his people, but the ceremony had concluded. As he passed by, he made eye contact with her and winked then did the same to Weir. He had his famous half grin. Did he not realize that he now carried so much weight on his shoulders? Of course he did, but it would not change him.
Those in the courtyard followed him back to the temple. From there preparations would be made for the ball, but for now, there would be what Sheppard had described as a parade back on his homeworld. It had been a long morning and she hoped he would have time to rest.
Three hours after the procession, they waited for Sheppard in the grand ballroom. He had gone to his chambers afterwards to rest and was not allowed by Samsus to have visitors. Teyla noted that Dr. Beckett was pleased with this. Finally Sheppard entered the ballroom. The room immediately became quiet. He wore only the black tunic with the light silver robe and a smaller and probably lighter crown of silver with the same colored small stones. Everyone in the room rose from their chairs and bowed as he passed. He smiled but said nothing as he made his way to the head of a table. The Atlantis team was seated close to him, but not close enough to talk to him. A pleasant sounding music began and they started eating. He looked alone surrounded by people.
"Well that was some ceremony," O'Neill said to no one in particular.
"No kidding," Weir said. "He looks..." Her voice trailed off. Beautiful, she wanted to say, but felt too embarrassed that the others would not understand.
"Majestic?" O'Neill offered. "He does have a certain glow about him."
She laughed. Leave it to 'O'Neill to get to the point.
"Yes, General. That is a good term."
"I bet he wants this day to be over," Ronon said.
"What, the party is just beginning?" Rodney said cheerfully. Sheppard did indeed look majestic. I'm just a grunt.
After an hour of food that Rodney found completely heavenly, Saphides stood suddenly and addressed the crowd. Something about music and dancing and more eating and drinking.
McKay loved the eating and drinking part. He saw everyone moving to another room just off to the side. Once in there Sheppard immediately walked up to them.
They bowed as they greeted him and he looked at them oddly. "Uh, you don't have to do that."
"Yes, your majesty, we do," Weir said formally, then leaned in, "At least in public, John."
He nodded in understanding but said nothing.
There was an odd silence as everyone kept staring at him and he shifted his weight uneasily. Finally unable to take it, he said, "Uh, I know the clothes are a little weird..."
"Actually, they look quite flattering. You look very majestic is the term I think we all agreed upon," McKay chimed.
Sheppard looked at each of them and sighed. "Okay, I won't live this down, but it isn't my fault!" They laughed at his expense and the tension eased.
The atmosphere of the room changed quickly as the music became less formal. People started talking quietly and enjoying the food and drink being provided. Sheppard shed the silver robe and was left with the black silk tunic.
They talked for a while and watched McKay eat nearly everything that was brought before him. "You are going to get sick Rodney," Sheppard said with a grin.
Rodney glared at him, but he did not care. The food was just too good. He wondered if Sheppard would loan one of their chefs to come back to Atlantis and teach the cooks there.
Saphides came to Sheppard and whispered something in his ear. Teyla saw his eyes go wide. What could be so horrible? A knot formed in her stomach. She heard him hiss, "Do I have to?" Saphides whispered some words, she heard "No, but expected," but nothing else. She saw Sheppard resign himself with a curt nod. He stood and walked over to her. "Teyla," he whispered, "Can I ask you a favor?"
"Of course, John."
"Would you dance with me? Saphides said that no one will dance until I do."
She raised her eyebrows at him. "I, uhh, well yes, of course, John." If she would die for him then certainly she would dance with him. It had been a while however.
"Okay, just follow my lead. Do you know how to waltz?"
"I am not sure?"
The music started and he placed one hand on her waist and the other with her right hand. He smiled then she felt him lead her. She quickly found the steps and she felt like she was floating. She looked up at him and he was smiling. Even if it annoyed him to be the center of attention, he was enjoying himself. She could feel his soft breath on hers. She realized he danced the way he fought, the way he did everything...relaxed, focused, and without hesitation... knowing where he was going. She was aware that all eyes were on them, saw frowns from several disappointed women she supposed, but she did not care. The war with the Wraith created a life of constant tension and preparedness, she had learned to enjoy the moment of peace and bliss when it arose and this was one of them. The music stopped. Sheppard gave her a slight bow at the waist and held her hand to escort her back to the table. "My lady," he whispered. He did not notice the clapping but turned around to the crowd asking them to continue. Saphides was waiting for him and escorted him to another area of the room to introduce him to others.
Everyone stared at Teyla and she looked at them almost fiercely. "The colonel is quite a good dancer," She said finally.
"Aye," Beckett said, "Is there anything the man can't do?"
McKay looked at Sheppard who was now dancing with an older woman who was not as fancily dressed as the others. He wondered that himself.
"Well, I think we should join the fun," O'Neill said cheerfully, "Dr. Weir. Would you care to join me? I really have to put this mess dress to good use."
Elizabeth laughed as she was escorted to the floor by the general. Beckett watched as Caldwell escorted Teyla to the dance floor.
"What is it with these military types," Beckett whined. He noticed a group of ladies standing in a corner. He swallowed a drink then went to ask one to dance. McKay watched him as he escorted one of them to the dance floor. He guessed these military types were rubbing off on Carson.
"What about you, Ronon?"
The reply was expected. "I don't dance."
Me neither, Rodney thought. He was content to watch and talk and of course eat.
Aranna could barely breathe. This king of theirs was so handsome and so charming, yet so unassuming. She was married of course and loved her husband dearly, but she could not control her wishes. He had asked her, even above the guardian family women and the numerous single females to dance with him. She was just a baker's wife, but he did not seem to care. As they danced, he talked about his favorite foods including chocolate cake and something called popcorn. She barely muttered a word to him but just smiled. He did not seem to notice her awkwardness. He was a good dancer. She mentioned this and he smiled and said, "My grandfather said that an officer should know how to ride a horse... and dance...amongst other things of course. He was old school," She did not understand what this meant, but it sounded charming. She was sad when the dance was over until he asked where her shop was located. "Well then, Aranna," he said as he escorted her back to her husband, "I will have to visit there soon. But don't let me get carried away. Got to watch my figure." She and her husband laughed. She liked this king. The one they had waited for so long.
Sheppard danced with a few more people as Saphides introduced him to other families. He hated the way the looked at him in awe. Didn't they know who he was, just some pilot who almost froze in the Antarctic by choice. No, they did not know that. His head started hurting and he got a little dizzy as pictures started to flash in his mind. He had done this before...a wedding. But no, it wasn't him, just Evander. He looked around. Everyone was talking but he no longer heard them. He saw a dark image flash. A blonde figure with eyes colder than ice. Scelus. The name formed in his head. Brother. He blinked and walked over to his friends. His head was throbbing. Everyone was talking but Beckett who was staring at him. Damn.
"You alright, colonel?" the doctor asked. Despite a few drinks, he was still keenly aware of any changes in his patient, for Sheppard was always his patient.
"Yeah, Carson, I am fine. Just been a long day."
Carson looked at him suspiciously. "Aye, it has. How is your shoulder?"
"It kind of smarts, but just like a sunburn. I think I would like to turn in though. I really have had enough of this."
"That is a good idea," Sheppard rarely admitted fatigue. Something must be bothering him. "Let me go along with you. I can give you something that will help that heal quickly."
He heard Beckett mutter something about barbaric practice. Sheppard excused himself from his friends; by the looks of it they would be having fun well into the morning.
"So soon, Sheppard?" O'Neill asked.
"Bottle to throttle, sir. You know the rule."
"Oh, yeah, right. Guess I should stop then since I am accompanying you tomorrow. You too, Steven. We have a meeting with aerial defense at 1300 sharp. Shep here has arranged an...experiential demonstration."
Caldwell put down his glass. No need to tell him twice. The others stayed behind with Beckett promising to return soon.
Samsus followed Sheppard to his chambers making sure that his new king did not need anything. As the younger man washed, Sam arranged his bedding and set out his clothes. Sheppard frowned has he got into bed. Dr. Beckett administered an ointment on the mark on his shoulder.
"Let me know if you need anything lad," Beckett said with a pat on the shoulder.
"Don't I always?" Sheppard said sweetly. Becket glared at him, shook his head, then left to continue with the festivities.
"You know Sam; I really like to do things on my own. I don't need someone to arrange my bed, get my clothes and all that stuff. It really is embarrassing. My mom taught me all that stuff pretty early on."
Sam sighed. "I know my lord. But my father also taught me early on how to be the assistant to the king. It has been what I was raised to do. Yesterday you were just John Sheppard the pilot, but today you are Armentarius, King. At least tonight. We can decide who you will be tomorrow, well, tomorrow."
"Well how can we make this work? Look, I need to be on my own most of the time, but now I am surrounded by people who just won't leave me alone. The only time I get to be alone is when I sleep and shower and only then because I insisted I can bathe myself."
Samsus understood. This man had not been raised to be a guardian or a king. He was a warrior, a king raised only in obscurity on some galaxy very far away. Warriors were always independent. But how could he still fulfill his duties? He looked at Sheppard.
"Sir, what if I simply manage your schedule and you manage your wardrobe and such when it is usual duties. When there are events that require specific attire then I will assist you."
Sheppard sighed. "Okay. That's reasonable."
"And if you do not eat in the dining room, then I or an attendant will bring you food."
"Yeah, yeah. Okay. Before you leave can you tell me who Scelus is?" Sam looked confused. "No, my lord, I cannot. I am sure Saphides or Sophistides would know or research that for you."
Sheppard looked thoughtful. Sam walked up to him. "My lord. Are you well?" he asked quietly. Sheppard looked down at him with a slight grin.
"I am Sam. Sam I am. Do you like green eggs and ham?" Whoa. Must have drunken too much wine.
"Sir?"
"Just Dr. Seuss. Anyway. Yes, I am fine." I am only the sovereign of half a solar system, now responsible for their protection. No need to panic.
"You miss your home?"
Home? Yeah, Atlantis. "Yes, I do. But…"
"But you feel comfortable here as well. Not many men can claim two homes."
Three if you count Earth, Sheppard mused. Good one smart ass.
"Good night, your majesty."
"Good night, Sam. See you in the morning."
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Next Chapter we find out who are Capys and Scelus. Thanks for your reviews. They encourage me to try to be patient and do this right! Guess after this, nothing but trouble. Why can't things just ever go easily for Sheppard and team?