A/N: Here we go with the secondary story arc. Warren faces Tchutchka Centrus Security investigators. I wanted to dedicate a full chapter to the predicament Warren finds himself. It's a lengthy chapter, so we really sink our teeth into the situation.
Must admit, I'm a little nervous posting this chapter. I've never written an interrogation scene before, so this was a stretch for me. Feedback is longed for – what you liked, didn't like, any flaws in logic; was it realistic, have sufficient tension, etc. If this chapter stirs you to share your reactions, I would be overjoyed.
To the steadfast Xrystofer who has nearly single-handedly heeded my calls for feedback thus far – you keep me going. Without you, I may have lost heart by now.
Let's get on with Warren's challenging day!
Chapter 35
They met early morning at a prearranged, secure location to speak before heading to the sector office of Tchut Planetary Security in the City of Im. Imperial security forces pressed to pick up Warren at his ship, but that, of course, could not happen. That said forces had chosen a vacant building for the briefing meeting with Stjarmas'de both surprised and didn't – much easier to secure a location that should be void of people. However, vacant meant creature comforts were minimal. A simple table and two chairs adorned the otherwise empty, windowless room. Two royal guards flanked the door, phase guns at the ready. Warren knew plenty of other security lurked unseen to provide a safe environment for the two Royals.
The Empire's highest legal voice gave him a crash course in imperial justice. He was entitled to counsel, but not to have counsel physically at his side during questioning. Even the exalted Royal Counselor Stjarmas'de would be restricted to watching a real-time holo projection of the interrogation from another room. Counselors could lodge complaints via a comlink, but the questioners could ignore only but the most grievous of objections.
What Warren found particularly interesting was that trial was by professional jury – people trained to hear and judge cases. Holding honorable positions and thoroughly schooled in the law of the empire, they took an oath of impartiality. Judges weren't involved in trials and jurors actively participated in the proceedings. There was no such thing as a hung jury or dismissed cases – every case heard was granted a verdict. But much to Warren's dismay, a certain amount of proof of innocence by the accused was taken into consideration in reaching a verdict.
"But we plan to avoid a trial, Archangel. That is our primary objective."
He nodded. "Sensible…as a first step, but I want to clear my name completely. Simply avoiding trial doesn't necessarily mean I'm exonerated.
His fellow Court member tilted a hand in partial agreement. "One focus at a time," was all he gave Warren. "Tchut Security has filed formal charges against you, which grants them more authority in building their case."
"What kind of authority?" Warren was feeling more and more like the outsider he was. Imperial justice had many of the same tenets as the American legal system, but exercised differently and its terminology was, well, alien. Aside from his brief exposure as a witness during the recent Etagllot trial, Warren hadn't any experience with Imperial legal workings. He was completely out of his element and wholly dependent on Stjarmas'de. Not a comfortable position for one use to being in control.
"A filing of formal charges authorizes law enforcement to interrogate and detain a suspect. They can subpoena information from the accused, such as genetic profiles and other private records. The filing is not an indictment, but rather an intermediate step toward a Full Order." Before Warren could ask, the lawyer answered his next question. "A Full Order is a legal document outlining specific charges and related penalties and a citing of laws allegedly violated. We do not want the situation to advance to a Full Order – that will trigger a Call to Court."
"As in we appear before the judge?"
A sharp nod confirmed. "Thus far, we successfully avoided Full Order. However," the stoic face seemed to harden, "you have not helped our case by being incommunicado and tardy in your arrival here. That served only to inflame and Tchut authorities came very close to openly accusing the Royal Court of stalling the legal process."
Warren grimaced. "So we have a bit of hostility to overcome is what you're saying."
"And a lot of bad press."
Stjarmas'de went on to share that Gtar-Cro and company continued investigating the incident, but had learned little to aid his defense. Warren could tell the Sat'reyan was worried despite the impassive demeanor. "Today is about dissecting your side of the incident. They informed me that you will be questioned by two of their interrogators." The man leaned slightly in toward Warren. "Do not expect your position to grant you any leniency in their questioning."
"I hadn't. I'm curious about something, though. Do telepaths play a role in the judicial system?"
"Yes, under certain circumstances, but use of their abilities is limited and highly regulated. Suspects cannot be forced to submit to telepathic probing or empathic monitoring under the constitution. However, witnesses can be monitored by a court empath if either side requests and the opposing side does not object, but under no circumstances can those testifying be telepathically probed without their consent."
That surprised Warren considering the Empire's top man was one. "But MI uses telepaths regularly," Warren objected. "How does that work?"
The lawyer fixed his coal-black Sat'reyan eyes on Warren's crystal blues. The species would make intimidating interrogators and imposing attorneys just by the eyes alone. In contrast to Moit'de, whose kindly disposition was reflected in the Sat'reyan gardener's warm black eyes, Stjarmas'de's all too easily treaded toward the cold and calculating. "Imperial security overrides individual rights in certain instances. In the face of an undeniable connection to known terrorist organizations, such as the Etagllot and Mennisa Freedom Fighters, or to other treasonous activity, a suspect can be forcibly probed. The safety of the many outweighs the rights of the few under those very specific conditions. But again, the evidence must be overwhelming or the suspect can protest and likely win their plea."
"So, for example, Etagllots captured during raids are fair game for telepathic probing."
Stjarmas'de nodded. "Yes, that would qualify as overwhelming evidence."
"And thus the new constitution allows MI to continue their fight against terrorists using telepaths."
"Correct." The man paused and leaned back. "Now I need to hear about the alley incident in great detail, as well as what your archeological search entails and about the people you travel with, particularly the one with you in the alley."
Warren decided beforehand that he'd reveal nearly everything about his mission to the lawyer, except he'd maintain Ettwanae's secret. Sometime later, Stjarmas'de was satisfied he understood the situation. The man's preparatory interrogation would help when Warren faced the Tchut inquisitors. Concerns about keeping Ettwanae's true identity hidden nagged, though.
"Is the use of scanners allowed during questioning? The kind that can differentiate between truth and otherwise?"
Stjarmas'de tensed instantly at the question. "You plan to be less than truthful?"
"I worry about any line of questioning regarding the nannites," Warren was being honest on that much. "The fewer people who know about what they are and what they can do, the better. I've already got the Etagllot after me."
The court member gestured acceptance of the explanation. "I understand your concern. First, to answer your question, sensors of that nature are not allowed to be used on an accused as it could self-incriminate. Second, if the questioning becomes too detailed on the subject, I will lodge an objection based on imperial security. If you recall, MI classified the technology within you as an imperial secret before the recent Etagllot trial on Sat'rey. Just as during those proceedings, the Tchuts can ask their questions, but only the broadest of details need be revealed."
Warren nodded. "And Ettwanae – she cannot become involved with this."
"She already is, Archangel," the answer came matter-of-factly.
"I don't want her questioned." Even as he said it, Warren knew what the answer would be.
"My apologies, Archangel, I can make no promises. Witnesses stated there were two of you in the alley. From the Tchut perspective, she is a witness at best and the perpetrator at worst. They wish to question her. To this point, they simply don't know whom to summon and have been biding their time, but after today, they will insist." Warren received a hard look from his attorney. "Why do you object? She will substantiate your story, will she not?"
He nodded. "She will. It's just…" Should he, shouldn't he? Ztar already knew Ettwanae was Eshaaru, which was strictly contrary to her desires. Should he trust Stjarmas'de with that same knowledge and how important it was her existence remain unknown? Faith in Stjarmas'de really wasn't the issue – Ettwanae's belief that Warren would keep her secret was. Yet the counselor needed something to work with. "It is complicated and you'll have to trust me on some of this, but Ettwanae is of a species that cannot be revealed. She only appears to be Sat'reyan."
Stjarmas'de actually showed surprise. "Who else knows this?"
"Ztar."
"Am I to be privilege to her true nature?"
"No."
"She cannot be revealed as being of a particular species or the species cannot be exposed."
"The latter."
The man contemplated silently for many moments. "Her appearance as Sat'reyan is holo induced?"
"It goes way beyond a simple projected image. Sensors cannot penetrate the disguise."
Stjarmas'de seemed truly startled and his eyes narrowed. "We're talking extremely advanced technology, correct?" Again, Warren nodded. "If I understand you, scanners cannot reveal her as being other than what she appears. If her identity is safe, explain again why she cannot be questioned? Keep in mind telepathy is not allowed under the circumstances."
He recalled what Ettwanae had said about her natural telepathic shields so telepathic probing wasn't a concern, but the point was moot. He would not involve her in his problem. Warren leaned on the table. "Because is she young, somewhat naïve, and I don't think she'd hold up well under intense interrogation." That was a stretch, as he knew Ettwanae had stood up under torture to keep her secret when the Etagllot held her, but no one else knew that. "Her and her people's existence must remain undisclosed. She is not to become involved. More than that, I cannot share." He made certain his tone left little doubt as to his firmness on the issue.
The Sat'reyan sat back slowly; black, whiteless eyes not wavering as he studied Warren. "Archangel, contra-stipulations and secrets do not help our case."
Warren held the counselor's gaze. "I am a member of the Royal Court of Ztar and by default, a high-ranking government official. Secrets come with the job." While Warren didn't hold a specific government position like the rest of Ztar's Court, simply being on Court meant he was a member of the highest echelon of Imperial government.
"Agreed to a degree, but we're dealing with perceptions as well. If our Court is seen as keeping too many secrets and abusing our power, it will have untold ramifications on the Emperor's infant government. We need to be seen as epitomes of our new constitution, not as holdovers from the old era. I shouldn't have to explain to you the power of the comnet."
"You do not, but I won't risk Ettwanae and her people."
"The Emperor agrees with this?"
"He knows the importance of protecting Ettwanae."
Stjarmas'de went deep into thought. Moments later, a sudden change came over the lawyer's face. "Is this woman an imperial citizen?"
"I was told she is not, but how do you become an imperial citizen?"
"If you are born of an imperial citizen, you are a citizen."
"Then I would say she is not."
A twinkle lit Stjarmas'de's eyes. "Then she cannot be forced to submit to questioning. She can claim diplomatic protection as a representative of a non-aligned world."
"Will they buy that?"
"Irrelevant. That claim moves your traveling companion beyond their jurisdictional authority even in this case. Let me worry about the specifics and maneuverings, but diplomatic immunity is a valid request under the circumstances. Tchut Security will request our diplomatic staff pressure Ettwanae to submit to questioning, but beyond that, there is little they can do." Stjarmas'de went silent for several seconds, then "How did you meet this Ettwanae – or is that a secret as well?"
Warren provided a censored version their first encounter. From the subtle changes in expression, his fellow court member suspected it wasn't the whole story.
"This may be a situation where augmentation of fact is desirable. If she has diplomatic status, we can use that to develop a more realistic background for your current association." After a couple minutes, they had a simple, but more believable first encounter scenario. Warren hated lying and hoped it didn't come to that, but it would raise fewer questions than the truth.
Rising, Stjarmas'de's excused himself for a couple minutes to send a comm message somewhere, and Warren breathed a sigh of relief. They just may be able to keep Ettwanae out of the mess yet. Now he had to worry about himself. 'Shit, Worthington, talk about being on the hot seat! You better keep your wits about you in what, less than 30 minutes,' he coached himself with a glance at the PI hanging from his waist. Then he felt a gentle mental touch.
/ Ztar! /
/ Be not afraid, fierce Archangel, you will convince them of your innocence. The Mi-Lartui is in orbit above Tchutchka Centrus. Please come see me when you are done with their interrogators. My love and strength is with you. / Just a quickly as it entered, the mental presence departed.
'Ztar came?' Surprise rapidly melted into warm feelings at the gesture of support in traveling so far. Then again, the seriousness of the situation may have required the Emperor's presence regardless. Whatever the reason, it would be good to see the big guy again. Ztar would want to hear all about his and Ettwanae's adventures and Warren found himself looking forward to the sharing, yet torn on how much to reveal. 'Other things to worry about right now. Stay focus, Worthington.'
Then a wryly smile crossed his lips at the memories of their private time together less than 50 standard days prior. He and Ztar would not end up in bed this time – he would be unwavering on that. 'Ztar has Jharda now. She's expecting their child.'
When Stjarmas'de approached the table, Warren was still smiling. "Message from the Emperor – he's here," he explained.
"He told me a few days ago he was coming. I am to report as well when we're done here. Sukja and I are to debrief while you and Ztar do likewise."
Warren caught an ever so slight smirk on Stjarmas'de's face. 'What I think you're thinking, fellow court member, ain't happening!' he silently retorted. "Can your shuttle take me up?"
"Of course." Any hint of expression vacated the usual poker face. "I've alerted my staff that your Ettwanae is a citizen of an undisclosed, non-aligned system with diplomatic status. They will make the appropriate notations in the legal documents and imperial records." The Sat'reyan stepped back from the table. "Now we need to leave for Planetary Security. We'll finish our conversation on the way."
Flanked by guards, they stepped out of the nondescript building and immediately into a skimmer. Warren had only enough time to see two equally unremarkable escort vehicles, which he knew would be heavily but discreetly armed. The ride took ten minutes tops during which they ironed out a few last details Stjarmas'de raised. The situation was becoming much too real and anxiety rose as the covert cavalcade turned down a service alley and ran along the back of a large building, pausing as an unmarked door slid open. The crafts slipped inside.
As the vehicle settled and guards took their positions, Warren had one last question for his attorney. "Fellow Court member, do you have a first name? I've never heard it mentioned – not once in all these years." Sat'reyans traditionally had a given name and family name, just like Warren's gardener friend from the palace, Srandrez Moit'de.
The man grinned the first truly amused smile Warren could recall seeing on the face – ever. The skimmer hatch slid open. "And that's exactly how I prefer it." With that, Stjarmas'de stepped outside and headed toward a doorway three paces away.
Warren had little time to wonder at the dodging response. Inhaling deeply, he held it, and then exhaled slowly as he stepped out. His palms were moist. He hoped his wings didn't give away the fact that he was trembling inside. He felt underdressed, not having packed any clothes suitable to wear to an interrogation. Stjarmas'de's attire was decidedly serious, leaving Warren uncertain if his jeans, sneakers, and light sweater would appear too casual or dismissive of the gravity of the situation. It added to his off-balance feeling. Then again, the attorney made no mention of his outfit and the Tchuts likely would have no idea of the connotations the laid-back apparel held on Earth. The famed Worthington cool, detached air was failing him, but he'd cut himself some slack – it's not every day you face charges in a triple-homicide case far from your home planet.
Stjarmas'de approached a formally dressed Tchut standing nearby. "Magistrate Nzonzdri, I am pleased to meet in person after so many comlink discussions," he extended, imperial tones coming through loud and clear.
With a wave of flat hands, the Magistrate replied as customary when addressing a member of royalty. "Ztjarmaz'de of the Royal Court of Ztar, it iz an honor to be in your prezenze." The accent was prominent, though not nearly as pronounced as the woman's in Tider's shop.
"Archangel of the Royal Court of Ztar, please know Magistrate Nzonzdri," the counselor introduced. Shaking hands was not an Imperial custom, thus Nzonzdri bowed his head slightly followed by Warren's nod of acknowledgement.
With formalities fulfilled, the Tchut's face turned from cordial greeting to serious business. "Pleaze come with me. We will attempt to abide your requezt to prozeed with effizienzy in conzideration of schedulez and the zenzitive nature of thiz inquiry."
Warren was picking up that Nzonzdri didn't drop his Ts, much easier to understand than the female shopkeeper had been.
"I trust the security precautions we discussed are in effect?"
The Tchut official gave a quick flick of a hand. "Naturally. The timing of your vizit," Warren noted an odd emphasis on 'visit', "haz not been zhared with the comnet newz zervizez, but zeveral of their liaizonz have taken to monitoring our fazility. We zhould be prepared that they may know you are in the building."
Stjarmas'de did not seem surprised. "That was anticipated. The area was thoroughly swept by MI security and several loiterers detained. Actually, Magistrate, I am somewhat disappointed that action hadn't been performed by Planetary Security."
Warren spied forced neutrality in the Tchut's face. "Royal Counzelor Ztjarmaz'de, we walk a fine line between protecting the privazy of the accuzed and honoring rightz granted under our new conztitution. The actionz by Military Intelligenze edged toward infringing on thoze rightz. Take care in what you and your Court do to gain greater privilege than the ordinary zitizen – it may have ramificationz you do not intend."
The warning was stern, but delivered without emotion. The Magistrate was obviously used to dealing with delicate situations. Stjarmas'de only gave a quick nod of acknowledgment. Warren doubted very much that he and Gtar-Cro hadn't considered the ramifications of their actions. Warren likewise doubted the lack of a reporter/loiterer sweep by Tchut authorities had anything to do with strict observance of the new freedoms enjoyed by the news media and everything to do with image. Let MI do the dirty work and take the heat while Tchutchka Centrus Planetary Security looked like the honorable ones.
Nzonzdri led them and their security entourage through empty corridors, every door to adjoining areas closed, to end up in what appeared to be a large lobby – probably the main entrance to the facility. All eyes were on them as they hurried through. From the curious but unsurprised faces, everyone had expected the two Royals. As Warren glanced around, he saw only uniformed bodies – if he had to guess, he'd say the lobby had been cleared of all but essential personnel.
Warren strained his ears to hear the quiet exchanges between those they passed, but picked up only snatches. "Human. Do they all look like tha'?" "…familiar with thoze legendz…uncanny…" "…thinkz he did…'elekineziz." "…Ztar'z Court muz be jaging!" Warren's embedded translator didn't relate the meaning of the last phrase, but from the tone, it wasn't something desirable.
At the far end of the lobby, they passed through a security portal and proceeded down a corridor to enter a windowless room set up with several chairs around oblong table – very sparse, very utilitarian. Two uniformed Tchut hovered near a second door at the rear of the room.
"Firzt," the Magistrate said, "I need to requezt your guardz remain outzide." Stjarmas'de immediately protested. "I underztand your zezurity conzernz, but they are unfounded. Thiz fazility iz on lockdown, your guardz will be juzt outzide, and you will be in the next room with additional guardz. Requezt denied." And that was apparently the end of the matter. "Az you have ztrezzed the importanze of expedienzy, we zhould begin immediately. I truzt you and the Emperor appreziate that Planetary Zezurity haz zhown extraordinary patienze in thiz matter and we will be conducting a thorough interrogation in return for that patienze." The look exchanged between the opposing lawyers was deadpan.
"The Emperor and his Court do appreciate your understanding of the unusual circumstances and the unfortunate resulting postponement in Archangel's appearance. I trust in the continued impartiality and professionalism of your staff and know they hold no bias against Archangel due to the unintentional delay."
Icy air filled the room despite the diplomatic smile spread across Stjarmas'de's face. Warren hated being talked about as if he weren't there, but he understood legal dancing and that he was completely out of his element. He'd do exactly as Stjarmas'de instructed. Answer the questions asked but volunteer no additional information all the while coming across as if he sincerely wanted to help with the investigation. He must appear cooperative and fully disclosing. Warren would be walking the proverbial tightrope.
"We all dezire the zame outcome, Counzelor – the truth. That iz our only biaz. Zhall we begin?"
The two uniformed Tchuts moved forward to be introduced by the Magistrate, their names full of too many consonants for Warren's tongue and he wouldn't even try to repeat for fear of offending. He tagged the one with a largest flat nose Schnoz and the smaller one Jimmy, despite not being able to discern their gender. With formalities completed, Warren's lifeline followed the Magistrate through the back exit and the door slid closed with a firm thud. The simple sound drove a tremor through Warren. He was pretty much on his own.
"Pleaz, zi', Archangel," Schnoz motioned to a chair in the middle of the table, the heavily accented Turzent immediately evident. Following his interrogators' speech may be the biggest challenge. If it became too much effort, he'd protest. Schnoz and Jimmy took their seats, one at each end of the table.
Stjarmas'de told him the session would be recorded from several angles, so body language would be as important as his verbal responses. Warren would make every effort to keep his body open – no crossing of arms or other defensive postures.
"We will begin with even'z on Imperial da'e 3037.264. Wha' brough' you 'o Chuchka?"
He was instantly confused. 'A variation of the planet's name?' he wondered, but wanted no misunderstandings. "I was on Tchutchka Centrus."
Schnoz toggled his hand in a gesture unknown to Warren. "My apologiez, Archangel. Chuchka iz na'ive name for our world. Imperial name hard for me. Otherz have be'ered maz'ered 'urzen' language, bu' I find difficul'. Perhapz I zpeak Chuchkan and allow 'ranzla'orz 'o do their job?"
Warren agreed – that'd be much easier. Embedded translators took over as Schnoz began again in his native tongue.
"On 3037.264, you were on Tchutchka Centrus correct?"
Warren breathed easier. Much better. "Yes."
"What brought you to our world?"
"We were seeking information."
"What kind of information and from whom?" The man leaned forward.
"We came to see a man named Tider about any knowledge he had of the location of certain U'larr artifacts."
"Who is 'we'?"
"Ettwanae and I."
"Is that her full name?"
Warren nodded. "As far as I know."
"We'll get back to her later, Archangel. Please explain about the U'larr artifacts."
"My traveling companions and I are on an archeological search to find out what happened to the ancient race and their legendary library, or at least learn as much as we can. We were told Tider is an expert in the field."
An upturning of one of the four hands seemed to indicate surprise. "So you seek to solve a mystery that no one else in two thousand years has been able to?"
Warren gave his interrogators a diffident smile. "That it the ultimate hope, but we know it is unlikely. Still, the hunt is exciting."
"Exciting enough to have ended in the death of three men?" Jimmy looked hard at Warren.
He put on a sincere baffled expression. "That is a mystery onto itself. I don't know why those men threatened us."
"Let's take this one step at a time." Schnoz took control again. "Tell us about your visit to the purveyor known as Tider."
The questioning continued, step by step, point by point, from the moment they arrived at Tchut through his and Ettwanae's transaction with Tider, though Warren left out the exact nature of their "currency" and details regarding Volu's unauthorized landing. He treaded the fine line between revealing enough without giving away Ettwanae's secrets. He prayed Tider had done likewise. Instinct said the broker had. Warren wondered what ramifications Tider had suffered from the incident, but there was nothing to be done about that.
Schnoz leaned back and crossed his legs and his two lower arms. "And so you seek not only the U'larr, but these Eshaaru as well?"
"We do, because finding Eshaaru could lead to the U'larr – it's a theory anyway."
"Eshaaru…Esserru – one and the same?"
"I know of the Turzent legend, but don't know if they are based on the ancient Eshaaru people. You'd have to ask a Turzent lore expert."
Schnoz studied Warren intently for several seconds; the eyes roving down the wings. "Are you Esserru?"
"I am not."
"You look the part."
"Looks are misleading. I am Human," he replied with conviction.
The interrogator eyed him sharply. "Your genetic profile will confirm that?"
Warren nodded.
Apparently convinced, Schnoz moved onto to what occurred after their meeting with Tider. "In the alley, you waited for your other traveling companions?"
"That is correct."
"What happened while you waited?"
"We talked a bit, but I felt uneasy – like someone was watching us. Ettwanae and I decided to leave the alley and had just turned to go when the attack happened." He stopped there, not wanting to advance the story too far without prompting.
Schnoz locked eyes with Warren. "Continue, Archangel, tell us everything you remember."
Warren made a point to rest his arms on the table in an open position with deep concern on his face. "Someone phase-stunned Ettwanae – without warning or provocation. She dropped to her knees, barely conscious. I grabbed her up and I was going to run, but the end of the alley was blocked by three armed figures."
Jimmy exchanged a glance with Schnoz and took over. "Why didn't you fly out?"
"Because I had put on my harness back on before leaving Tider's shop."
"What is a harness?"
Warren explained the contraption and when he had donned it while the Tchuts listened intently.
"You didn't mention that before."
"Sorry," he apologized simply.
"Why wear such a device?"
"Security – I'm less identifiable as a member of Court."
Jimmy nodding in apparent acceptance of the logic. "What happened next?"
"They told me to kneel. I asked again what they wanted, but they just repeated their demand, guns pointing at us the whole time."
"What did they look like?"
He described them as best he could, which wasn't well as their faces had been shadowed with the sun to their backs. Jimmy activated a holo projection and three faces with matching full-body views floated above the table.
"Are these the individuals?"
Warren studied them carefully. "I don't know. As I said, the sun was in my face."
"You were how far away from the individuals?"
"About 25 feet." Warren wondered if the translator knew the distance conversion.
"In Imperial measure," Jimmy asked for clarification.
"Roughly 8 onta," Warren estimated, since an onta was about a metric meter.
"Were you armed?"
"No, we felt it best not to be."
"You had nothing on your person that could be used as a weapon?"
"No."
Jimmy went silent, palms coming together in a thoughtful, fourhanded clasp; leaving Warren to wonder what the alien was contemplating. "What happened after they repeated their demand for you to kneel?"
"They started making odd sounds – like choking noises. It wasn't long before the first one fell and then the other two."
"Where were you when they fell?"
"I hadn't moved – still about 8 onta away."
"What caused them to fall?"
Warren shrugged, wings making more rustling noise than he'd have preferred. "I don't know. I was as surprised as they apparently were."
"Someone attacked them?"
"At the time, I could only assume that was the case."
Schnoz spread one flat hand on the table and reclaimed lead. "Do you possess any unusual mental abilities?"
"What do you mean?"
"The ability to manipulate objects with your thoughts."
"No."
"Are you telekinetic?"
"No."
"Telepathic?"
"No."
"Is your travel mate telekinetic or telepathic?"
"No."
Schnoz gave Warren a look he couldn't read. "You are certain?"
"As much as anyone can be about another person's abilities."
"Then it would be more accurate to say that in the time you've known Ettwanae, she has not demonstrated such abilities in front of you?"
Warren cringed internally. They were homing in on Ettwanae as a suspect. He scrambled for something to turn them away from that conclusion. "If she were telekinetic or telepathic, I see no reason she would have hid those talents from me. I understand the importance of knowing your teammate's skills as that understanding may prove to be the deciding factor in a threatening situation. I had a frank discussion with everyone on board when we began our search and no one claimed telepathic or telekinetic talents. I saw no signs of deception in those conversations. I feel completely confident in saying they spoke truthfully with full disclosure, Ettwanae included." Warren hoped his tone and manner conveyed certainty. As Volu said, what Ettwanae and she shared was not true telepathy as they were a closed circuit onto themselves.
Schnoz studied Warren. "That will be a point to confirm when we question your shipmates."
Warren's heart lurched. 'Shit.' But there was little he could do. He'd have to trust Stjarmas'de to maneuver them out of that scenario.
"Back to the alley," Jimmy redirected. "Your alleged assailants are now on the ground. What happened next?"
"A fourth individual stepped just within the alley."
"Go on."
Warren detailed the conversation and gave what description he could.
"So this person you believe to be male did not admit to attacking the three men?"
"He implied responsibility," Warren repeated what he'd already said once.
"Do you believe he did?"
"It would be a logical assumption that either he did or someone with him."
"Were the men dead?"
"I don't know. They weren't moving or breathing from what I could tell."
"You could see whether they were breathing from 8 onta?" Disbelief crossed Jimmy's face.
"Yes. I have extremely good eyesight."
"Yet your extremely good eyesight failed you in getting a clear look at any of the four individuals?"
"I have excellent vision, but backlit silhouettes and sun glare interfere with my eyes just as it does with anyone's."
"And you didn't check the men?"
Warren couldn't stop the sigh that escaped. "We were afraid and left quickly."
"You were afraid."
The echoed words were more statement than question. Warren sensed Jimmy didn't like the response for some reason. "That others were lurking around. And Ettwanae was still recovering from the stun hit. Yes, I was afraid."
"Who carried whom out of the alley."
"She carried me."
"While recovering from a stun shot?" Jimmy flashed Warren an incredulous look.
"It must have been a low-power hit."
"Very low power. Sat'reyans are known for their drug resistance, but I've heard nothing about being exceptional tolerant of phase gun discharge." Tchut features hardened. "How did she do it?"
Warren wasn't sure on which point Jimmy was wondering. "Do what?"
"How did she carry you out of the alley?"
"She was wearing a Freeflier." He'd read about the device once on the comnet, which was an anti-grav exoskeleton with propulsion units that allowed the wearer to fly. It was very popular amongst certain more daring segments of the population, but highly restricted in where it could be used because of the dangers of interfering with skimmer and shuttle traffic. A Freeflier explained Ettwanae's ability to fly. Unfortunately, it was also a lie. "She carried me out because I didn't take the time to shed the harness."
Schnoz made an entry in the computer as Jimmy continued. "And she managed this after being hit by a phase blast?"
"I can only assume the stun setting was low, but she was still shaky." Warren swallowed, his mouth dry. He would have put money on the next question and he'd better had a reasonable explanation.
"Why was she wearing such an expensive device?"
He would have won his bet. One of his wings moved with an errant twitch as he recited the same explanation he'd given Stjarmas'de. "In case we got into trouble and needed to leave quickly. Our research told us that whole U'larr search business can get a bit dicey – some seekers are overly passionate apparently. We had no idea what we might face with Tider."
Schnoz stood and began slowly pacing. "Need to stretch my legs," he informed no one in particular and took over the questioning. "Are you saying this Tider could be dangerous?"
"We didn't know, so we chose to stack the odds in our favor for a quick escape if our meeting went badly. I can fly. Ettwanae cannot – without the Freeflier, that is."
"Interesting. Yet you went in unarmed." Warren did not take the bait to defend that decision. Several seconds passed as Schnoz strode across the room and back. "Where did you go when you left the alley?"
"We met up with the others and returned to the ship."
"Ettwanae – she's Sat'reyan, correct?"
"She looks full-blooded Sat'reyan to me." The fine line was precarious.
Jimmy made an odd guttural sound and Schnoz relinquished control.
"I need to better understand something you said earlier. You claim you were afraid…" Jimmy dismissed the floating image of the men and activated another image – a bio file, complete with images of Warren in his X-man uniform. "Someone trained as a fighter, someone that has been seen in battle a large portion of his adult life, someone who has gone against extremely formidable opponents, was afraid." Again, a statement, not a question.
Warren looked at the holo images – some he recognized as captured by the Earth news media, others he hadn't a clue. They spanned quite a length of time, as the changes in uniform attested. Someone had done their homework. 'But how'd they get these? Earth is quarantined!' he riled internally. 'Moot point – they have them.'
"As I said, Ettwanae was recovering and we didn't know who else may be lurking. I was afraid for her."
Jimmy expanded an icon and immediately footage of him in all his apocalyptic glory materialized; steel wings flashing in the sun as he blazed through the sky and came to a hover. Jimmy paused the footage. "And as hard as it is to believe, this is a recording of you as well, our researchers tell us."
Dread and old pain rolled over him. Just as quickly, he realized the disclosure might actually help strengthen his case if he played it right. Warren nodded.
"Quite impressive." Jimmy put a feathered-winged version of Warren next to the steel-winged image. "How is it you appear as both? Holo projection?"
Warren saw his opening to plant seed for the Etagllot defense. He would reveal enough, but not too much of the classified technology. "I am host to advanced technology that transformed me into that other form for a period of time, but then I reverted to my true nature."
"Transformed? What kind of technology is capable of that?" Schnoz asked in amazement with a wave of two arms at the floating image as he walked toward Warren.
"I cannot reveal anything more – it's classified."
"I can see why," Schnoz remarked from his position now directly behind Warren. "Frightening potential – lethal, if our information is accurate. The science must be extraordinary."
"Extremely advanced, yes." Warren squelched the desire to twist around and face his inquisitor.
"An understatement, Archangel. But we understand your planet to be technologically…young," Schnoz phrased diplomatically, holding his position at Warren's back. "Certainly, this is Imperial technology then…"
"All I will confirm is the technology is not of Earth and was not of my choosing." A bit of an exaggeration, but in essence the truth. Warren had sold out to Apocalypse to regain precious flight and regretted it nearly every day of his life since.
Schnoz rested a hand on either side of the back of Warren's chair, arms brushing pseudo-incidentally against wings. He tried not to stiffen at the physical contact. 'Invading my personal space – an intimidation technique.'
The man behind him leaned closer to his ear. "In that form, Archangel, do you possess the ability to kill with a thought?"
Warren fought the desire to lash out with his wings – wings powerful enough to break the intrusive limbs still to either side of his shoulders. "No."
"To take us back to where this was headed. You are a trained warrior. You have been seen fighting many battles. You have an alternate form capable of inflicting great harm. Yet you were afraid in the alley. Perhaps so afraid that you killed to protect your traveling companion."
Tension filled Warren – muscles tightened and hands clenched. The Tchut's looming presence was likely producing exactly the effect the man intended. "I was afraid for Ettwanae, yes, but I did not kill those men."
"The fourth man did?"
"I can't answer that. I only know the men collapsed just before he appeared. He implied responsibility, but that is all. I wish I could tell you he killed them, but I have no proof."
"Do you know how the men died?"
"I was told strangulation and blocked blood supply to the brain." The urge to slash out with his wings to get Schnoz to move off was increasing steadily. The man's closeness to his back pressed on Warren's feral side to avoid such a vulnerable position.
"Correct, though not an external mark was found on the victims. How is that possible?"
"You're the experts. We were attacked – they were the aggressors. Perhaps you should focus more on their actions." Annoyance grew at the rehashing of points.
"Did you know that no one remembers seeing the fourth man even though several people were close by?" Jimmy stepped in verbally to divert from the immediate subject.
Warren didn't know that. Only one explanation came to mind. "Perhaps he was cloaked somehow."
"To everyone but you and the female?" Jimmy's tone transmitted disbelief.
"On my world, some telepaths can make themselves invisible to everyone but those they wish to see them."
"That would be quite an ability. You are proposing this individual is a telepath?"
"It is a possible explanation based on my experience with telepaths."
"Does your world also have telekinetics?" Schnoz asked from behind Warren, taking the conversational reins again.
"It does."
"Are you one?"
"I am not." Warren could feel the man's eyes looking down at him and the sensation of the clothing against feathers. It was a struggle to keep the wings from knocking the threatening presence away…an errant tremor ran to the feathery tips in the effort.
"The men were killed telekinetically – it is the only theory proposed that fits the forensic evidence. Impressive, considering the three men died virtually simultaneously. That would take a great deal of skill, considering the precision of the act."
"Not beyond what I've known TKs to be able to do. For some, it would hardly be a strain."
Jimmy posed the next question. "And this alleged fourth individual, the one no one else saw, you propose he was a telekinetic?"
'God, how much longer is this going to go?' Stress and thirst were building. "I propose nothing."
"You saw no one else."
"Only passersby who started gathering at the head of the alley."
Schnoz finally moved away and retook his seat. Warren sighed silently in relief. Jimmy and Schnoz exchanged a look Warren could not read. Jimmy twirled his PI on the table.
Schnoz caught Warren's eyes. "Archangel, who would want harm you or your companion?"
'Finally!' Stjarmas'de said Tchut authorities were informed he had been kidnapped once already by the illegal scientific organization. Warren would push his defense of being the ongoing target of nefarious intent. "The people who want what I carry around in my body. The same people who kidnapped me once before. The Etagllot."
"Are you saying the three men were Etagllot operatives?"
"It would make sense."
"Despite that no Etagllot connection has been found?"
"Doesn't mean it isn't there."
The interrogator gave Warren an obviously feigned puzzled look. "Why stun the female and not you?"
"To get her out of the way? I don't know. Perhaps it was the simple fact that she stood between me and them." Thirst chafed and he licked his lips.
"Why not stun you immediately after?"
"I'm not a telepath – I don't know their reasoning." Did they really expect him to know these things? He felt like growling.
"And the man you say saved you – who was he?"
Warren gave himself permission to frown. "I haven't a clue."
"Is it possible he was an imperial operative?"
Suddenly, a tone sounded from the table controls, making Warren jump. 'Stjarmas'de raising an objection?' he speculated as the men looked to the embedded display. 'Why on this point? Or is something else going on?' Warren was beginning to truly appreciate why it was so beneficial to have counsel bodily at your side. He may have to talk with Ztar about changing that part of Imperial law.
It was Schnoz's turn to place a frown on his flat face as he read the apparently lengthy message. Tensions elevated as silence continued. Warren used the opportunity to gather himself and take stock of his state – he was growing tired, hungry, thirsty, and the room was becoming too warm. A thin sheen of sweat coated his body, adding to the discomfort. All factors that could lead him to make a mistake. 'Need to watch myself.'
Schnoz and Jimmy exchanged something in silent eye contact. It made Warren uneasy.
"Why kill those three men? Why not just incapacitate?"
Warren was nearing the end of his tolerance at the improper questions. "You're asking me to speculate – I won't. It gains us nothing."
"You are wrong, Archangel. Speculation often leads to new perspectives." Jimmy leaned back in the chair with a superior pose that transcended species. "Speaking of that, I'd like to recap my understanding thus far of your perspective of events, Archangel. It will be concise. You are on an archeological search and make contact with an expert in the field – Tider. When you left his premises, you were attacked by unknown assailants for undisclosed reasons, but you suggest an organization called the Etagllot may be behind the incident. An unknown person then killed those men to protect you. You propose that your protector was both telepathic and telekinetic as one possible explanation to events, yet you have no insight as to why he would provide aid. Have I summarized your position correctly?"
"With one correction. You said telekinesis was the only theory to explain the cause of death. Otherwise, that is essentially correct."
"Noted," Jimmy gave him. "I do have a problem with your theory of the fourth individual being a telepath. If a telepath can cause people to not remember seeing someone, why not erase the memories of the witnesses seeing you as well? Wouldn't that be a wise precaution?"
"Perhaps when your investigators find him, you can ask." The sarcastic response likely did Warren no favors, but the questioning was improper, or would be if he were being interrogated in the US. But he wasn't in America – not even on Earth. 'The rules are different here,' he reminded himself and renewed the effort to keep temper in check.
"I don't understand your actions, Archangel. From your perspective, you were attacked without warning or provocation possibly by agents of an organization that kidnapped you once before." Jimmy came forward in a quick move. "Why did you not immediately seek security protection?" The question was unmistakably accusatory.
Stjarmas'de warned the issue would be sticking point. "I just wanted to leave. It seemed the safest course of action at the time."
"So you left the scene of a crime, left the planet, and even after safely aboard your ship, did not report the incident."
"Yes…a mistake in judgment," he freely admitted.
Jimmy's eyes were like ice. "A gross error in judgment, not to mention against the law."
"But if you knew the Etagllot, you'd understand my decision. They are a very powerful organization, with what I'm told is a large network of embedded operatives. If they had people on this world, the longer I remained, the greater the danger."
Schnoz tapped a couple fingers on the table. "All the more reason to call someone for protection. Again, why didn't you at least comm Tchut authorities to report the murders?"
Warren leaned on the table, keeping his body language open, trying to emphasize sincerity. "I didn't know the men were actually dead when I left."
"But you said yourself, they didn't appear to be breathing." That was Jimmy again and Warren met his eyes.
"I didn't even know what species they were. Perhaps they don't breathe."
The large-nosed alien leveled a look at Warren that was decidedly unfriendly. "The most reasonable explanation for not contacting anyone is that either you or your companion committed the homicides and fled the scene hoping you left no evidence."
The Tchut's stare drilled into Warren and he held the eyes of his accuser with intensity. "Neither I or Ettwanae killed those men. You're looking in the wrong place!"
Schnoz held the look for many heartbeats, then leaned away with an expression Warren read as calculating. Another couple taps of the fingers. "Did you understand at the time that not reporting a crime is a crime in itself?"
"I really didn't stop to think about it."
Schnoz snorted, then eased in once again. "So we can add to your story that you decided to flee Tchutchka Centrus without reporting what had happened, even though you may have been leaving behind three dead bodies and were committing a crime in doing so?"
They had him on that one, might as well go with it. He sighed. "Yes, unfortunately I wasn't thinking clearly and ran. I accept responsibly that because of fear for myself and my travel companions, we left without alerting you."
"Seems to me you didn't think about a lot of things, Archangel." Schnoz's smirk said he was pleased he'd won the admission. "After you fled the scene, where did you go?"
Warren answered the question for the second time. "We met up with our friends and returned to the ship."
"Which was where exactly?"
Warren jerked inside. 'Fuck!' A detail he and Stjarmas'de hadn't discussed. What should he say? To reveal Volu was sitting outside of Im after having slipped through secure airspace would raise countless questions. "In orbit." He knew immediately it was the wrong answer.
"Archangel, every vessel in orbit at the time of the incident has been identified. None of those ships are linked to you. We found no passenger records of you or your three shipmates on any shuttle or ship manifest. Additionally, there is no record of an unidentified shuttle departure from ground to an orbiting ship that day. Do you wish to rethink your answer?"
"I do not. If there is no record of our ship, then the records are flawed." It was his only option at this point, as weak as it was.
"And now we can add either gross negligence by Tchut traffic control or very selective equipment malfunction to your list of unexplained circumstances?"
This was not going down the path Warren wanted. "I did not say that."
Schnoz feigned bewilderment. "But what other conclusion could there be? A conspiracy to delete those records perhaps?"
Warren did his best to look perplexed. "I will need to rely on your expertise to determine what happened. I'm at as much of a loss as you to explain the missing data."
"When did your ship leave orbit?"
"As soon as we were aboard."
The large-nosed alien shook his head. "And again, no records exist of your ship's request to leave orbit. Puzzling!"
Warren did the only sensible thing – remained quiet.
Jimmy broke the silence. "Did you comm Emperor Ztar about the incident?"
"No."
"Did you contact General Gtar-Cro? Anyone?"
Again with the repeated questions. They were trying to trip him up – a common interrogation technique, but it was really beginning to get under his skin. "No." More sharpness snuck into his tone than intended.
"No?" The tone was forced amazement. "A threat as ominous as you would have us believe and you don't comm the man responsible for your safety? Why would that be?"
"I thought we'd gotten away and that was the end of it." He swallowed hard, trying to get rid of the dryness.
Schnoz and Jimmy were silent for an uncomfortably long time, which Warren was certain was the intent, hoping he'd feel compelled to fill the dead air with further explanations. He did not. Schnoz pushed back from the table leisurely, crossing his legs, contemplation crossing the flat features. "Archangel, where did you go after leaving Tchutchka?"
"We continued our search for clues to the U'larr civiliza-"
"I asked where, not what," the interrogator cut him off sharply.
"Thael."
Immediately, Jimmy worked the tabletop computer interface, likely requesting verification of their presence at Thael. There'd be no record of their ship in orbit around that planet either. A trickle of sweat made it presence known between Warren's wings.
"For what purpose?"
"Supplies."
"Anywhere else?"
Warren knew that answer would be a strike against him. Neu was a non-contact world, but he and Stjarmas'de agreed it would be worse to lie than admit breaking an Imperial order. "Neu."
"Neu? Haven't heard of it." Schnoz shot a look to Jimmy. The other officer continued tapping the computer controls. Schnoz got up and walked over to the other man and both scanned the privately displayed data.
Intrigue greeted Warren when Schnoz looked up. "Interesting revelations here. Thael for one. And then Neu. That's a restricted area. It's against Imperial interstellar law to be within that star system, Archangel." The tone was of mystification.
Warren nodded.
"It seems you are in a habit of ignoring the laws of our Empire," Jimmy observed coldly. "Perhaps you believe your position allows you to disregard such trivial considerations." The accusation was harsh.
An indicator tone announced another objection had been lodged. Schnoz read whatever was coming across the tabletop screen. Warren wished he could see it, but the angle was wrong. Schnoz seemed conflicted about whatever it said. Then he walked away from the table and remained silent for many long seconds.
"Neu is not that far away, Archangel. Why the delay in you returning here?"
"I was out of contact." Stjarmas'de had told him Tchut authorities were informed they were unable to reach him and uncertain where Archangel was at the time. It was the truth.
"Why?"
"Because what we were going to do was illegal."
"Going to Neu?"
"Yes."
"Who knew where you were going?"
"My shipmates."
"No one else?"
"No."
"Not even the man you shared a bed with for nearly five standard years?"
Warren could have sworn the indicator tone sounded angry at the question. It matched Warren's ire at the impropriety, but he held emotions in check. The question was meant to provoke.
"Not even our Emperor," he responded flatly. His mouth was like cotton. He'd have to ask for water soon.
Jimmy took over again. "Who are your shipmates, Archangel; besides the Sat'reyan you call Ettwanae."
"Flint and Gatebi."
"Are those their full names?"
Warren would raise his own objection at that. "They have nothing to do with the incident."
Jimmy waved a hand in disagreement. "You are mistaken. You have admitted to the crime of leaving Tchutchka Centrus without reporting the incident. They accompanied you as you committed that crime. They are involved whether you wish them to be or not."
Warren waited, hoping to hear the objection tone. It remained silent.
"Archangel, must I repeat the question?"
"Lanic Reilly and Gatebi Eudara," he answered, swearing silently.
"Species?"
"Flint is Human and Gatebi is Alcab."
"Human? From Earth?" Warren nodded. "Your homeworld is a non-contact world. In fact, the penalties for intrusion into that system are some of the harshest I've seen outside of military restricted zones. How is it that Lanic Reilly came to be on your ship?"
"First, it is not my ship. Second, they are friends of Ettwanae and were aboard when I joined them."
Jimmy locked eyes with Warren. "This Ettwanae, was she born on Sat'rey?"
"I don't know."
"How old is she?"
"She appears to be in her early twenties."
Schnoz began using his personal PI as Jimmy questioned Warren.
"What species is she?"
"She appears to be Sat'reyan." Again, the redundancy.
"Appears?"
"In a universe of image inducers, shapeshifters, and chameleons, I take little at face value."
"Where did you meet?"
"On Sat'rey." Warren was suddenly very glad Stjarmas'de decided to embellish the truth.
"Where?"
"The Imperial Palace." He was prepared to elaborate, but only if asked.
"Does she live on Sat'rey?"
"I'm not sure."
"Does she own the ship?"
"I don't know who holds title to the ship." Warren was growing more uncomfortable, and his nerves were ragged. He hoped Stjarmas'de would play the diplomatic card soon.
"Has she told you where she obtained her ship? Anything about her past?" Jimmy's tone was steadily more forceful. "Do you know anything about this woman you're traveling with?"
'Time for a new approach,' Warren told himself. "I am answering your questions to the best of my ability and attempting to be helpful in your investigation. Do you wish me to make up answers that you like better than the truth?" He asked in feigned puzzlement.
"Of course not, Archangel," Schnoz stepped in. "but it is difficult to understand why a member of the Royal Court would go on a long-term archeological search with someone you know so little about."
"I trust her credentials and the security clearance MI gave her to be in attendance at the palace."
Suddenly, the rear door opened and the Magistrate motioned the two interrogators over to him. They exchanged whispered words. Likely, Stjarmas'de had enlightened Nzonzdri as to Ettwanae's diplomatic status. The interrogators did not appear pleased with the news.
The Magistrate disappeared, but the door remained open. 'Good sign?' He decided to take the opportunity to request a glass of water. His mouth was a desert and his stomach on the verge of audibly proclaiming its desire for food – breakfast was hours ago. "Would it be possible to have something to drink?"
Schnoz walked casually toward him. "We're nearly done, Archangel."
Warren took that as a no. He shifted uneasily, realizing how uncomfortable the chair was. "I do wish I could be of more assistance in solving the case. I am as puzzled by the situation as you."
Schnoz smiled condescendingly. "I'm sure you are. Out of curiosity, what is your- the ship's name?"
"Volu." He was sticking with his policy of the fewer the lies the better, less to remember.
Jimmy began working the interface again.
"What class? Or is that veiled in diplomatic secrecy as well?" The words held bite, but also revealed Stjarmas'de had played their trump card.
"Private."
"What I meant to ask was what body-type."
"It's a custom design."
Jimmy gave his partner a quick look and a slight hand gesture. Schnoz tilted his flat head and eyed Warren. "Strange that you are here and there is no record of a ship by that name in orbit or at any of the orbital stations. As puzzling as Thael Control having no record of a ship by that name ever requesting clearance." Schnoz said with a devilish grin. "Must be more mysterious malfunctions."
Suddenly, Nzonzdri was in the doorway again, Stjarmas'de at his heels. "That will be all for today," he announced tersely. Warren didn't miss the sharp look he shot his interrogators. Apparently, questions about the "diplomat's" ship were out of line.
Warren stood as the magistrate approached with a practiced smile. "Archangel, thank you for your cooperation. We azk that you remain reachable by comlink in the event we need to clarify any detailz while preparing our report." The official 'request' was gift wrapped in diplomacy.
He returned the smile, hoping to feign amicability as well as Nzonzdri. "As I told your investigators, I wish I could provide more insight into the unfortunate incident. However, the reputation of your investigators is reassuring. I'm certain you'll find the perpetrator and the reason those men attacked a member of Court who was visiting one of your fine purveyors." Warren wouldn't leave without reminding the law officer that it was he who was ambushed in broad daylight.
The slight clouding of the magistrate's face was the only indication that he fully understood all that Warren implied. Jharda's office could do a lot of damage if they chose to press the issue and turn the tables in the situation. To be known as the planet where a royal court member was accosted in a popular tourist district would not bode well for Im tourism. Thus far, Myrundra's department had not taken that low road.
"I azzure you that any crimez the men committed will not go unrecorded, even if their familiez prefer thoze indizcretionz remain undizclozed."
Stjarmas'de had briefly mentioned that the men's families had joined to seek significant damages as soon as Archangel's name was linked to the incident. Likely, they and their attorneys saw an opportunity to tap into the royal coffers, perhaps imagining a luxuriant lifestyle for the rest of their days. Warren thought it cynically amusing that ambulance-chasing lawyers resided off Earth as well.
The magistrate led the entourage back to the skimmer the two law officials exchanged practiced pleasantries. After promises of continued cooperation, Warren and his attorney stepped inside the vehicle.
"How'd it go in the back room?" Warren immediately questioned.
The man actually sighed, but Warren could not tell if it was one of relief or disheartenment. "Tense, but as well as could be expected. Nzonzdri rose to his position on skill. He senses pieces of your explanation aren't quite…complete."
"I can guess some of those parts involve my travel companions." Stjarmas'de moved his hand in agreement in a way that reminded him of Royal Master Gardener Moit'de, who was also native Sat'reyan. "Do you think he believes I'm innocent?"
Stjarmas'de's expression became more encouraging. "Actually, I think he does, but with a qualifier. He likely believes you are covering for the person who is not."
"Ettwanae."
Again the hand gesture. "Yes."
"Which leaves me as an accessory to murder."
"Or at a minimum, a witness to homicide in self-defense."
"She didn't do it, Stjarmas'de." Warren made sure his voice conveyed conviction. The reaction wasn't as he expected.
"Archangel, the lone figure at the head of the alley – you're certain there's nothing more you can provide?"
Warren studied the empire's highest-ranking attorney and guessed what the man was actually alluding to. "He is real, Stjarmas'de. I did not make him up. Ettwanae is not responsible for those deaths – I believe our mystery man killed them."
"Man?"
"A guess, by the voice, but no proof."
"They will push to talk with Flint and Gatebi and even more so Ettwanae, regardless of her diplomatic status. And when we deny that request, they will press for an explanation as to why."
Warren gave Stjarmas'de his I-have-total-confidence-in-your-extraordinary-skills smile. "I am certain an explanation is out there that they will accept; perhaps not happily, but that they will concede to."
Thirst was impossible to ignore and his stomach growled. "Any water around?" Warren looked to the lead guardsman – she indicated no. With great disappointment, he turned back to the lawyer. "What do you give as odds that we've avoided a Full Order?"
"You did well, Archangel, but we still have no solid evidence as to why you were confronted or that you were an innocent party. The Magistrate still has many questions. Why did those men approach you? How did they know you were there? What is the real reason you not report the attack? Where is the proof the men were Etagllot? Why would you go into a situation that you obviously felt was potentially dangerous and not be armed? Why is it that diplomatic immunity and Imperial secrets have so conveniently merged?" The Sat'reyan crossed his legs and sat back with a less than encouraging air. "The list goes on. I give our odds as even on avoiding a Full Order."
Warren let go of the tight restraint he'd held himself by the past few hours and exasperation overwhelmed him quickly. "What the hell! We were the ones attacked. Ettwanae was hit. We are innocent. Why are they not letting this go?"
"You both are alive. Three others are dead. Your explanation is filled inexplicable actions and claims unsupported by evidence. Many questions. Few answers. Now we have thrown in diplomatic maneuverings and classified technology just to add fuel to their suspicions."
Warren sighed with fatigue and a sense of defeat. "They smell conspiracy."
"Likely. Magistrate Nzonzdri also has aspirations of rising higher within Planetary Security. Solving this case would be good for his career."
That worried Warren. "Is he crooked?"
Stjarmas'de shook his head firmly. "We found nothing to indicate that is the case. Our justice system has surprisingly little corruption. It exists in pockets, but considering the penalty is death with no appeal for any member of the legal system found guilty of such a crime, few legal professionals are motivated to risk it. Ztar is insistent that his courts be without reproach."
"What do we need on our side to have the charges dropped?"
"Ideally, an eye witness who saw everything and confirmed your story. Without that, then solid evidence to confirm the men were ordered by the Etagllot or someone else to kidnap or kill you." The lawyer sat forward to remove his formal over-jacket and get more comfortable. "Without either of those, we are left with picking apart their foundation for a Full Order one piece at a time."
Stjarmas'de went on to offer some encouragement – fleeing the scene of a crime could be dealt with diplomatically. If all other options failed, the families of the victims could be paid to go away, though it would create an undesirable precedent. "In fact," the counselor continued in summary, "we can dispense with all the surrounding issues one by one, leaving the core matter – the homicides."
"So three armed men can accost you in a dead-end alley, stun your companion, and it is not sufficient evidence the attackers intended harm?" Warren was dumbfounded.
Stjarmas'de shook his head. "Archangel, consider from their perspective. That is your version of events. They have no evidence to substantiate your explanation. All they have are five people in an alley with little to explain why three ended up dead."
Warren grimaced. The man was right. "If only we could pin the men to the Etagllot…it would help my case immensely." Stjarmas'de nodded once. Warren sighed as the weight of the situation pressed on his shoulders and gazed out the skimmer's window to the sky beyond the building tops, wings twitching involuntarily at the longing. What he wouldn't do for an hour of solitude in the air, but Tchutchka's hurricane force winds prevented that even if he had the time, which he did not. Ztar waited high above.
His fellow court member leaned toward Warren. "Do not give in to dire thoughts as yet, Archangel. The Empire is still a monarchy at its heart and its Emperor is the final authority, even under the new constitution. Ztar remains the ultimate voice in all matters. While it would shake the people's confidence in our government and the Court and cause a myriad of ramifications, I do not doubt our Emperor would wield that authority if it meant protecting you."
Warren studied the man carefully, but he was hard to read. Was Warren sensing disapproval? Deep concern? A warning? He couldn't be sure. What was clear was the undesirability of such an action. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."
The counselor eased back into his chair with only a small wave of the hand in agreement.
Minutes later, they arrived at the spaceport and boarded Stjarmas'de's shuttle. With clearance for immediate departure, the craft lifted into the air even before Stjarmas'de and he got situated. Warren was beyond parched and immediately went to grab a container of water before taking a seat. It was then he noticed the man with a shock of deepest orange hair leaning against the bulkhead in the far corner of the roomy shuttle, arms crossed, and a familiar smirk on his face.
###
A/N: Next time, who is the man in the shuttle? And just what does Ztar intend for his meeting with Warren? And a little incident comes to light that Warren was completely clueless about at the time, much to a certain orange-haired man's dismay.