E:A Vol 6 Ch 7—October 26, 2120

Chapter 7: October 26, 2120

“Oh!” Mik’kenna exclaimed when the group appeared on Gren, “Bubby, look all flowers! It so pretty! Look! It like big flower garden!”

Kaven looked around at the lush planet. If he ever retired, he wouldn’t mind retiring here. It was much like where he grew up, at least until he moved into the city. He took a deep breath of the fresh air and smiled.

“Puppies should be here to play,” Ky’nayth said, breaking the awe-inspired silence of those who’d come across the bridge portal with them.

Kaven shook off his reverie and pointed, “We have to walk to that platform over there. Ky, come on, I’ll give you a lift.”

“Daddy, me up!” Mik’kenna said with her arms out to him. Zy’nayth picked her up and carried her as Kaven did the same to Ky’nayth.

Once they got to the wooden platform, Kaven went on up on the lattice-work tower and held up his banner, thankful he kept it in his pack which had been on Earth when the attack happened. When the horn sounded in the distance, the twins looked around to try and figure out where the sound came from.

Ten minutes later, no one had arrived. Kaven sat on the platform, worried that Zy’nayth’s presence was causing the delay, but then out from the trees in the distance came a lone rider. Kaven stood and motioned the others to do the same.

Cannol rode up, his eyes never leaving the tall man in white. He reined in his horse at the platform then looked at Kaven. “Friend Kaven. Doctor Victoria. It is good to see both of you again.” His eyes flicked to Zy’nayth, “Friend or foe?”

“As I told you during our last visit, friend Cannol,” Kaven said, “we are friends with the High Chancellor of the Rayth. I would have sent word that he would accompany us, but I know you prefer us to arrive with all of our friends.”

“A Rayth is a different matter, friend or not,” Cannol said. “The others?”

“This is Benjamin Nichols, he is the Farm Director where we live. Hank Wells is the Director of Agriculture, and Nelson Castor, the Director of Botany. The man to my right is the leader of all of us, General Vince Cavanaugh. And you have already figured out the High Chancellor.”

“And the little ones?” Cannol said, giving the twins a big smile, but not failing to notice the long white hair and piercing blue eyes which were typical of Rayth.

“Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna, children of the High Chancellor,” Kaven said.

“And of Victoria,” Zy’nayth added. “She is my wife. At my request, I instructed her not to reveal that information when she visited here with Kaven. I am quite protective of my family and did not wish any harm to come to her.”

“You, then, are the one who entrusted her safety to Kaven? You are the warrior he did not wish to face in battle if something happened to her?” Cannol asked.

“Yes.”

“You must trust Kaven a great deal.”

“I do.”

“Kaven, friend, I must forgo pleasantries and I cannot take you to the village until I know of your intentions. Why have you come before the appointed time with a Rayth?”

“Not long ago, there was an attack on many Rayth planets, including their homeworld. The planet where I now live and work with General Cavanaugh’s people was also attacked as well as the homeworld of the general’s people. Our home, which is a spaceship, went to the general’s homeworld to help fight off the attackers. We won the fight but the ship was damaged and cannot return to our world. It will take weeks, if not months to repair. Our farm was destroyed, most of it, anyway. We need seeds, starter plants, livestock. That is why we’re here. The High Chancellor can explain his own presence.”

Cannol looked up at Zy’nayth. “You do not have the blue eyes of your people. Your hair is not straight. Explain.”

Kaven flashed a look at Vince. You didn’t demand things of Zy’nayth, you asked. Cannol demanded an explanation.

“I do not know why my hair and eyes are different,” Zy’nayth replied calmly. “I assume it was due to genetic modifications. I am not sure and have not investigated the matter.”

“It is said that you were leader when the war began. You are the hero of legend. Is this true?”

“I was not a leader when the war with the Mythicans began if that is the war to which you are alluding. I had not yet been born. Some would consider me a hero. I am simply a warrior who is very good at what he does.”

“You have taken this serum I have heard about?”

“You have heard of that?” Zy’nayth raised an eyebrow then answered. “I have.”

“Why have you come?”

“I wished to thank you, personally, for all you have done to procure livestock for my people. Thankfully, the planet to which the livestock was sent, was not harmed. And the area on my homeworld where we are attempting to breed our own for distribution was also not harmed. The distribution of the serum to those who chose to take it has gone well. I also wanted you to know that the attacks perpetrated on the worlds Kaven mentioned were done by rebel Rayth who are against the serum. They fear it will turn them into mere humans, which I am proof that it will not. We have taken their three main leaders, but there are still thirty ships out there that we have not yet found and disabled. We have placed a warship in this system to protect Gren.”

“Do you not think that having your warship in orbit around this planet would attract the attention of these rebels?”

Zy’nayth could not help the sly smile that passed his lips. “I hope it does because then they can be dealt with and would save my army from having to search for them. In any case, it is not in orbit, it is only in the system.”

Cannol eyed him then threw back his head in laughter. “Yes, yes, a good strategy. So, High Chancellor, what else may I do for you?”

“Other than continuing to supply my people with livestock as you have agreed to do, nothing. I am here to thank you and to pay for what the general’s people need. I wish to see their farm back in working order as soon as it is possible.”

“Can you not get supplies from your homeworld, General?”

“We can, however, our farms have had much…tampering. We wish to keep our new home free from the chemicals, pesticides, and such,” Vince replied. “Turns out that they have increased the number of many of our diseases. We want to have a clean slate to start with.”

“Ah, yes. Warrior John explained some of that when he was here.” Cannol then looked at Victoria, “Do you love him? Or is he a master and you a slave?”

Victoria’s green eyes lit up, “I love him with all my heart. He’s a good man and a good father.”

Cannol then looked down at Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna. “Tell me, little Rayth friends, do you like horses?”

“I never see one up close,” Mik’kenna said. “I has a puppy. So does Bubby. I wish they here to see all the place to run.”

“It is a beautiful place to bring dogs for a good run. Come, you may pet my horse. This is Mally. She is strong and fast.” Cannol then turned back to the woods and gave a hand signal, then turned back as Zy’nayth and Kaven each held one of the twins up to pet the horse’s long nose. “General, forgive me for directing most of my attention to the High Chancellor. I needed to make sure he was a friend.”

“I understand,” Vince said.

“May I assume, friend Kaven, that your trip will be short? I would guess there is much for you to do elsewhere.”

“We only have the day, though I can return later. I am hoping that you can arrange for what we need. Then, though it is against tradition, all I have to do is pick it up.”

“I believe that will not be an issue given the circumstances.”

“Mr. Cannol, do you like puppies?” Mik’kenna asked.

“I do indeed.”

“My Celeste and Bubby’s Baxter like to run and play and dig. They very good diggers. The mean rebels hurted them. They ‘most died but Uncle First Science Commander heal dem and dey still little scared but we give them lots of love and hugs. So we ‘ppreciate if you can do like Uncle Kaven say so we can be home with puppies tonight. I worry ‘bout dem.”

“Your puppies are quite fortunate to have such good guardians,” Cannol said as a horse-drawn wagon made its way towards them. “Where are they now?”

“They on Mommy’s homeworld. People from city-ship all at Mommy’s house ‘til ship safe. So puppies there to keep morale.” She shrugged her shoulders, “I think that what it is. But they make people happy. They funny.”

“We’ll do what we can so you can get back to them. Mr. Ky’nayth, you are rather quiet.”

“I sorry. I no convee sation-ist like Sissy.”

“That’s quite all right. I was only making an observation. Mally seems to like you and your sister.”

“She very pretty.”

The wagon pulled up in an arc, turning to face the woods. “If you would all be so kind,” Cannol motioned to the wagon, “the ride is short.”

“Cannol, young Ky’nayth loves all things ‘driveable’,” Kaven said. “Would it be possible for him to sit with the wagon driver to learn? Of course, Mik’kenna would probably want to sit with her brother to navigate,” he smiled.

Ky’nayth looked at his father, “Can I?”

“It is up to Mr. Cannol,” Zy’nayth said.

Cannol exchanged glances with the wagon driver and got a nod. “Very well, let’s get you two up there on the seat.”

Zy’nayth lifted his son up and set him on the driver’s bench. The boy scooted over next to the driver so his sister had room. “I Ky’nayth. Nice meet you.”

“I am Walling, nice to meet you and your sister.”

“I never drive horsies ‘fore. I learn fast. I drive Mommy’s tractor and Daddy’s cruiser. We no get to go much but I drive sometimes. They pretty horsies.”

“He is not shy when it comes to discussing driving,” Cannol smiled. “If I am not mistaken, his father is known as a rather good pilot.”

“You have no idea,” Kaven smiled as he hopped into the back of the wagon then helped Victoria in.

“If my presence will be an issue,” Zy’nayth said, “I can remain here.”

“Do no harm to my people,” Cannol said, “and we will not have an issue.”

Zy’nayth gave him a nod then got into the wagon.

When the wagon rolled into the village, those in it found themselves surrounded by archers. Kaven knew that in the towers, archers also had their bows aimed at the group. “Friend Cannol,” he said, “the High Chancellor gave his word. He will not harm anyone unless you attack first. The weapons are not necessary.” Then his stern look eased into a smile. “Besides, he could easily handle all of these people if he so chose. I know from personal experience.”

“We are being vigilant. A Rayth comes into our village, would you expect no less?”

“A Rayth who is my friend and has given his word of honor,” Kaven replied. “Cannol, I have known you many years and have never betrayed your trust in me. And have, in fact, brought you a considerable amount of business.”

Cannol nodded, “Indeed you have.” He looked at the captain of the guard, “Lower your weapons. There is no danger here.”

“Sir…” one man began to speak but Cannol shot him a glare.

“It is dishonorable enough that I questioned friend Kaven’s vow, do not let the entire village be one of dishonor. Lower your weapons.”

Pamma and Landen walked forward as the bows came down. “Victoria, good to see you again,” Pamma smiled and glanced at Zy’nayth.

“You as well,” Victoria said as Zy’nayth got out of the wagon and helped her down. “Landen, you look much better than when I last saw you.”

“Feeling much better, thank you, doctor.”

Zy’nayth fetched his children and returned to Victoria’s side. “This is my husband, the High Chancellor of the Raythian Empire. Forgive me for keeping it a secret when I was here last. And these are our two precious children, Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna.”

Kaven introduced the rest of the group then Cannol went to summon the elders of the other villages while Pamma and Landen led them to their home. They had a long day ahead of them.

Once inside the house, Pamma then told them to make themselves at home. “I have tea and lemonade or, if you prefer, ice water. What can I get for you?”

“May I has lemmy ade, please?” Mik’kenna asked. Ky’nayth said he wanted the same. Everyone else was happy with tea. Victoria went to help Pamma and Landen. As everyone got settled, Cannol walked in, apologizing for his short detour.

“I sent the message asking the elders to be here in an hour,” he said. “To save you from having to explain everything twice, we can skip that for now. General, Kaven has told us that there are many warriors from your world where he now lives. Are they all as talented as friends Kaven, John, Be’atta, and Chris?”

“Everyone has different skills, but yes, I think they’re all very skilled,” Vince replied. “Those four are four of my best, though Kaven and Be’atta are not from my homeworld as the others are.”

“And you are their leader. You must be a mighty warrior.”

“Perhaps a long time ago. I’m not up to their caliber. I organize, strategize, and deal with bureaucracy.”

“Ah. We are much alike in that regard,” Cannol smiled. Then he turned to Zy’nayth who was sitting on one of the sofas next to Victoria. “However, you are still a warrior and yet rule your people.”

“Yes. A better warrior than bureaucrat.”

“Still in top fighting form?”

“I like to think so,” Zy’nayth replied.

“Or you would like us to think so. Good strategy,” Cannol said.

“Believe me, he’s not exaggerating,” Kaven said. “I fought him once. I lasted only a split second. I was down before I knew what happened.”

“Daddy best warrior,” Ky’nayth said. “Me and Sissy learn some things ‘bout ‘trategy. We no very good at fight but we learn what we can do ‘cause we little. Someday I grow up and be good warrior like Daddy. I rather pilot ‘cause that more fun. Sissy like stars.”

“I grow up and be star physic person,” Mik’kenna said. “I sorry, I no say right word. Hard to say.”

“Astrophysicist,” Victoria said. “She loves stargazing and Ky’nayth is fascinated with transportation, even my old tractor for mowing the lawn.”

Cannol, Pamma, and Landen spent most of their time talking to the twins, to ease their fears and to help them feel more comfortable in an unknown place. Victoria appreciated the effort, but also knew that until the elders arrived, business would not be discussed. Thirty minutes later, there was a knock on the door. Landen went to answer it. He returned with one of the elders from another village. When he walked in and saw the Rayth, his eyes went wide.

“He comes as a friend,” Cannol stood to greet him. “Do not fear. He has given his word and friend Kaven vouches for him. Remember, we are supplying him with much livestock. He is a customer. Come, let us go out back. There is more room and it’s a lovely day. I suspect the rest of the elders will be joining us before too long.”

“White?” the elder said, seeing the white leather Zy’nayth wore as a sign of his station. “Is that not the color the High Chancellor wears?”

“It is,” Cannol said. “Come, come, let’s go. We have plenty of benches and chairs. Take your drinks.”

As everyone got resettled, Pamma brought out something akin to butcher paper and crayons for the twins. “I have a few toys if things go long.”

“I packed a game for them, but they love to draw, thank you,” Victoria said.

It wasn’t long before the backyard was packed. Everyone kept a bit of distance from Zy’nayth. The kids sat on the ground in front of him and colored. Ben, Hank, and Nelson sat on a bench to the right of Vince, Zy’nayth, and Kaven. Victoria moved from sitting in a lounge chair to sitting on the ground by the twins and colored with them as she listened to the men talk business.

While people were getting seated, Pamma went over and whispered in Victoria’s ear. “I can take the children into the house if they should not be involved in the discussion. I give you my word, no harm will come to them.”

“They’ll be fine; they’re used to having to listen to Daddy’s meetings sometimes,” Victoria said, “but thank you.”

“Well, you know where the kitchen and bathrooms are. Please make yourselves at home.” She reached over and touched each of the twins on their cheeks. “You two as well. Both beautiful kids. Welcome to my home.”

Once everyone was seated, Cannol introduced everyone. Zy’nayth then repeated his thankfulness for their willingness to supply livestock for his people then explained what brought them to Gren. Then Vince was asked to explain further.

“Our farm is small,” Vince took over from Zy’nayth. “We are hoping to expand it, but right now, we are basically starting from nothing. Kaven speaks so highly of all of you and I know that in dealing for the livestock for the Rayth, you have been honest and provided the best livestock we’ve ever seen. I’m hoping that you would be willing to help us further.”

Ben, Hank, and Nelson all discussed what type of seeds or plants they were hoping to obtain. The discussion was lively as each village’s leader suggested they had the best crops.

“Question, High Chancellor,” one of the elders said, “will your people need seeds and plants as well?”

“Undoubtedly, but as we only have one small world, just half of which has taken the serum, the need is not going to be for a while, several months at least. Once things have settled from this attack and the Empire sees that the serum is viable, we will expand. That is when we will more assistance from your planet.”

“Good, good. We are always looking for more business,” the elder smiled.

“If I may,” Kaven said, “if you are willing to work with our three specialists, I would like to make a request.”

“Go on, friend,” another elder said.

“We have much to repair on our two human worlds. The High Chancellor has much more to tend to. Our time is limited. If we can agree on what is needed, may we leave it to all of you to arrange everything, distributing our trade as evenly as possible among your villages, so that I and my friends can return to our work. I can return to pick up everything at an agreed upon date.”

Mik’kenna climbed up next to her mother and whispered in her ear. Victoria nodded and nudged Ky’nayth, whispering to him. He stood up and took her hand. Victoria took them into the house and to the bathroom. Zy’nayth tapped his comlink to link into Victoria’s. “Just listening for trouble,” he said softly.

The elders talked among themselves and by the time Victoria and the twins returned, they had agreed to Kaven’s suggestion.

“Cannol, is it lunchtime in this zone?” an elder asked.

“It is,” Cannol said. “My wife should have arranged a feast for us.”

“Then we shall eat first then work out the details. We know who can supply what is needed. Despite our banter,” he looked at Zy’nayth, “we respect each other’s capabilities and can work quite well together. I am sure we can get everything in order before dinner. Would you be able to stay for dinner as well?”

“We would not want to put you to any more trouble,” Vince replied since everyone except Zy’nayth was part of his staff, “but we did plan on spending the day, if needed. Kaven has told us that your hospitality is unmatched. Again, we don’t wish to wear that hospitality thin given all of our requests.”

“There’s no problem at all. A second feast will be arranged,” the elder said. “Cannol, I hope your village is up to it. A feast for lunch and for dinner!”

“We are more than capable,” Cannol smiled. “I would not dishonor the name of my village.”

“Scuse me, where eat? I starvy,” Mik’kenna said. “I sorry. Dat bad manner. I ‘polly-gize But my tummy rumbly. We up early and ‘cited to come so it be long time since Bubby and I eated.”

“We will eat out front,” Cannol said, “you can hear the noise of everyone gathering. And dear, if you need something to eat, just ask. Victoria, you know where the kitchen is, help yourself if your little ones need a snack.”

Victoria thanked him, then everyone began moving to the front of the house. Kaven stayed close to her, since Zy’nayth was surrounded, the elders garnering for his attention.

“I’m going to feel guilty eating all this food,” Vince said as they were given seats of honor, “though Alan and his team are making some pretty tasty dishes. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so much meat.”

“General, if you wish, we would be happy to bridge any leftovers to your people,” Cannol said. “Friend Kaven can escort us to the portal.”

“I…”

“We will prepare much more for dinner so that you can take plenty back with you,” another elder said. “I will have people from my village help prepare more.”

“As will I,” another said. Soon Victoria began to worry that they’d have about ten wagons to take all of the offered food back to Earth.

“Please, friends,” Kaven said, “though it is greatly appreciated, it would mean that some of our people would not get to sample this delicious food. There are five thousand we must feed. I would not want anyone to feel left out.”

“That is a valid point,” an elder said.

Kaven added, “Thank you for the offer, but I must decline in order to be fair to everyone.”

As dish after dish was passed, the twins found themselves with piles of food of their plates. Various meats: pork, beef, chicken; potatoes that were mashed, backed, or roasted; gravies and sauces; various vegetables prepared in different ways; fruits, fresh or blended into drinks; and several different types of freshly made bread. And the desserts had yet to be served.

“I no know where start,” Ky’nayth said, looking at his heaping plates. Victoria had limited the serving sizes the twins took, but still, with all of the various dishes, everything piled up.

“Sample a little of everything, sweetie,” Victoria said, “then eat what you like most.”

Zy’nayth joined hands with his family, including Vince and Kaven, then prayed over the meal, thanking God for the new friends they had made.

Mik’kenna eyed her plate then opted to try the mashed potatoes first, something which didn’t surprise her family. Then she added a piece of brisket to her fork and dunked it in the mashed potatoes and tried that. Little by little, everyone sampled everything.

Ben was the first to vocalize his love of the food. “Amazing, simply delicious. I could live on this the rest of my life.”

“Everyone in the village pitched in,” Pamma said, motioning to the numerous tables around the area, “we pride ourselves on our cooking skills. After all, when you have the best meat and vegetables and fruit, you had better know how to prepare them.”

“Agreed,” Vince nodded, “I’m starting to regret declining the leftovers.”

“We can still…”

“No, no. It would not be fair, as Kaven said, to not have enough for my entire staff. Out of curiosity, what will you do with the leftovers?”

“Split it among the village,” Cannol said. “Or the elders may take some back to their villages. If there are people who are sick or elderly, they get first priority.”

“That’s a wise practice,” Vince said.

“Do you have elderly in your warrior city?” Pamma asked.

“Our, we call it an Expedition, have a few that are roughly my age, but no one we would consider elderly. Most are similar in age as Kaven and the others you’ve met. My homeworld, however, is much different.”

“Is it a military expedition?” an elder asked.

“Most of the people are military, though we are also a scientific expedition.”

“Do you have little ones other than Ky’nayth and Mik’kenna?”

“Two babies were recently born, but those are the only little ones we have on the base. We don’t have many couples. Since many people are off-world at lengths of time which makes establishing relationships, especially with military men and women, difficult. Also, when we first came to explore, we didn’t know about Rayth and we certainly didn’t know about the war between them and humans. We lost many, many good people to Rayth and Gyhan.”

An elder slammed his hand on a table. “The Gyhan! Yes, we heard about their treachery to their own people.”

“And thanks to the High Chancellor, the Gyhan rebellion was quelled,” Vince said, “we helped a little with that.”

“If I may,” Zy’nayth said, “you are all travelers, are you not?”

“Yes, traders. We go to many, many worlds,” Cannol said, proudly.

“It has occurred to me that you knew about the Gyhan rebellion and the serum that I have taken, so you must hear much on your travels.”

“We must be aware of where it is safe for us to travel,” an elder said. “Our traders are always listening.”

“Then perhaps you can be of assistance in more than supplying livestock. The rebels used a technology unknown to us. As far as I am aware, there are no other races with technology advanced as ours and yet the rebels surprised me with what they had. Something, as I have stated, I have not seen before. Do you know of any other technologically advanced races? You do not have to tell me who they are, I know you are still a bit wary of me and my motives, I simply wish to know if we have rivals out there.”

“Other than the general’s expedition, we know of no one else with advanced technology. Most of the places we visit have the technology of which Kaven’s world had. Much the same as ours, only they were more industry based and we are more agrarian.” The elder looked around the table, “Please inform me if I am wrong, but I cannot bring to mind anyone other than Rayth who have space capabilities. The Gyhan achieved it only by being given it by the rebel Rayth.”

Zy’nayth raised an eyebrow, “You do know much.”

“As I said, we must listen in order to remain safe.”

“Of course, there are the ancient Mythicans of legend,” another elder said. “If perhaps any of them survived the war.”

“I have only come across one of their ships in the last 10,000 years since the Mythicans were destroyed. That is the city-ship that General Cavanaugh’s expedition lives and works in,” Zy’nayth said.  “If you happen to come across any information, and please, do not go searching for it because it would probably be quite dangerous if our flagship could not withstand their blasts, but if you hear about a technologically advanced race, I would appreciate any information you come by. Obviously, I would be willing to pay for such information. But if you do not wish to pass the information along, I understand. You must be on guard against Rayth, and given that only very few of us have taken the serum, that is understandable.”

“Could this technology have been stolen by the rebels?” Cannol asked.

“If I did not know about this technology, and I have some very good connections across the galaxy,” Zy’nayth said, “I do not think the rebels would have known of it, let alone be able steal it. Someone had to have offered it to the rebels.” He smiled and waved off his remark, “But no need to discuss business at a feast. I would rather enjoy the food.”

“I has question please,” Mik’kenna said. She had a pile of “baby” potatoes on her plate of various colors. “I ask, please, how these cooked? I love taytoes and these are so good. I want Mommy to know recipe so she make.”

“You picked the best potatoes on the planet,” a man said with a smile. He walked over between her and Victoria, leaning over their shoulders to tell them the recipe. “I bake them until they’re about half way done, then I smoosh them down with a cup like this.” He took Victoria’s glass and gave them an idea of how it was done. “While they’re baking, I sauté some garlic in butter, sometimes I add onion,” he smiled. “When the potatoes are half-done and smooshed, I pour that garlic butter over the top, toss on some larger coarse salt, freshly ground pepper, then I bake them until they’re done. Now for the best part. I pull them out and shred a little fresh cheese on top. Any cheese of your liking will do. Then I throw them back in the oven until the cheese melts.”

“Mommy, dat seem easy. We make please. Thank you for recipe. I like so much,” Mik’kenna said.

“If you want to get really fancy, throw some bacon on them,” he winked at Mik’kenna and went back to his seat. Mik’kenna looked at her mother who nodded and told her that she’d try it once they had their own kitchen again.

By the time the group returned to Earth, orders had been placed and a date was set for Kaven to pick things up. Though leftovers weren’t brought back, the villagers wouldn’t let the twins leave without some of the food. Each had bags of their leftovers from their own plates, plus a bit of their favorite meat and vegetable dishes, and one bag of their favorite desserts. Zy’nayth and his family bridged to his flagship first to put the leftovers in his chambers, then the rest of the group bridged to Earth.

October 27, 2120

“Di’vash and Ca’vak have no idea who their father was working with,” Ny’van said as he met with Zy’nayth, Kol’non, and the High Council on Kiva. Various members of the High Council, often switching days, had been sitting in on the telepathic interrogations, but Ny’van gave the report of his findings to the Council as a whole. “They knew nothing other than they were to allow themselves to get caught then try to convert anyone they could to their cause.”

“And my brother was going to break them out of prison?” Zy’nayth asked.

“He wasn’t expecting them to be on your flagship, but yes, he said he’d find a way to get them out,” Ny’van replied.

“Lead,” Zy’nayth said to the Lead Councilman, “the Lawyer who had them moved, could he have been working at my brother’s request?”

“No. I have talked with him about how it looks—that Di’vash and Ca’vak escaped after being moved to a place that he recommended. The Lawyer said that he would undergo telepathic interrogation by you, sir, in order to keep his reputation untarnished. I have told your assistant to set up a date and time. I will be there and I believe the Vice Chancellor should be as well.”

Zy’nayth gave a nod to his assistant, “First available slot on my calendar, please.”

“Yes, sir,” Dre’han said.

“As for the escape, we know they were teleported out,” Ny’van continued, “as were the prisoners that had been captured in the previous rebel uprising. In checking with the First Commander and First Science Commander, records of satellite imagery and scans from ships we had in the area show that there was no rebel ship near Kiva with the ability to teleport the mass group of prisoners. Also, when Di’vash and Ca’vak were taken, as well as the larger group of prisoners, a ship didn’t appear until after they were teleported out. In other words, they were teleported out by an undetectable cloaked ship, then the rebels used one of their decoy ships to blast the safe house and prison.”

“It wasn’t a matter of dropping their cloaking shield in order to fire?” a Councilman asked.

“No,” Kol’non answered. “We were able to piece together the flight path of the two ships that fired on either facility. They were out of range for teleportation, but well in range to fire weapons.”

“But another cloaked ship could have done the teleportation, perhaps? One to teleport, another to fire weapons” another Councilman asked.

“Yes and no,” Ny’van said. “Your premise is correct, but they were not two similar rebel ships. First Science has assured me that we can detect any cloaked ship the rebels were using in this system. His team has been examining various vessels after the attack and have found only weapons, shields, and cloaking devices already known to us—cloaks we can detect. The ships that went to Earth, the decoy or remotely controlled ships, had a different technology. The five battlecruisers used Raythian materials, but the power source was Rayk energy. The technology was something we’ve never seen before.”

“So we’re sure there was another race helping the rebels?” the Lead Councilman asked.

Ny’van paced before the council. “A man named Algo claimed to be an Alandrovian. A race unknown to us. The Science team is still going through archives but searches of databases going back five thousand years show no race, planet, village, city, or people by that name.” Ny’van shook his head, “During the interrogation of Koh’vash, those of you who were there, saw the man. Human. Nothing out of the ordinary. The clothes were non-descript. No body markings.”

“And Koh’vash has no idea who he is or where he’s from?” the Lead asked.

“Nothing that I’ve been able to uncover. He wasn’t even aware that the engines were using Rayk energy despite his previous battlecruisers using the same thing.”

“He is not scientifically minded,” Zy’nayth said. “He could have been told everything but it would be forgotten a moment later. Nothing of that sort concerns him. And Vice has not been able to find any information along those lines.”

After discussing several more items that were merely statements of what they were not able to uncover, Zy’nayth dismissed the meeting and went to his office. Ny’van and Kol’non followed him.

“I will keep digging,” Ny’van said. “I still have several lines of questioning that may reveal something, trigger an image.”

Zy’nayth nodded but said nothing as he sat in his large, leather chair.

“What’s wrong, besides me not being able to find any helpful information?” Ny’van asked.

“You are doing well. We are at least eliminating possibilities. The weather at Victoria’s estate is turning far too cold to keep people outside. Ja’val’s teams have found issues with the city-ship’s engines which means we cannot land her as we were hoping since people are not thrilled with the idea of living isolated on my flagship.”

“The flagship is still there,” Kol’non said, “and still an option. I’d think they’d prefer it to freezing to death.”

“I know. The problem also concerns the shuttles themselves. I cannot spare any more men to check them and make sure they did not suffer any damage. Or I could and, in the process, halt the work of John’s teams clearing the floors.”

“Halt or slow?” Ny’van asked. “There’s got to be something they can do without having to have a Rayth scientist with them during the cleanup. The scientists would only need a few days to assess the shuttles. And, if I recall, they are only six of them. If one’s damaged, move on to the next one. If they’re all damaged, repair the easiest ones.”

“Though it would be time consuming, we could take people to the flagship on our jets,” Kol’non shrugged his shoulders. “Not exactly practical, but doable. Or, I can stop teleportation of the rebel ships to the incinerator and teleport up the Expedition. They wouldn’t be able to return to Earth easily and we’d have no way to get food on board, other than the bridge and teleporters, both of which are in use constantly. But it would get them out of the cold.”

Zy’nayth made a note on his tablet then looked at the two men. “The next flagship will have a couple of transport shuttles on it,” he said then let out a long sigh. “I will talk with Vince and the crew this evening about slowing John’s work so that we can check on the shuttle situation. I think that must take priority now.”

“I agree,” Kol’non said. “I could also send another ship, perhaps a science vessel to Earth. They typically have shuttles on board.”

“It would take them far too long to get to Earth. And no, I am not pulling another warship with a faster engine. I do not like having my flagship orbiting Earth when my Empire has been damaged by the rebels. It does not send the proper message to our people.”

“You’ve been here on Kiva or visiting other worlds that have been hit,” Ny’van said. “You’ve made speeches every day, have been physically working to help clear debris in some of the most heavily damaged towns; the flagship is not needed for these things. It was needed in battle and it was here during the most crucial battles. Only when the Empire was secured did Kol’non take it to Earth.”

“There are still five unaccounted for rebel vessels out there,” Zy’nayth said.

“And the fleet and tradeships are all looking for them. We will find them. All towns, all planets are still on alert. They have ships, shuttles, or jets in orbit scanning visually, not just relying on the computers to do the work,” Kol’non said. “We’ve found all of the other ships in the last couple of weeks. Considering they could be anywhere in this galaxy or in the Milky Way, we’ve covered a lot of space in a short amount of time.”

“We can’t do more than that,” Ny’van said. “Having the flagship here won’t necessarily help find the last five rebel ships.”

“I know. I feel as if I should be doing more.”

A few more minutes of discussion then Kol’non returned to the flagship to check on a few things before bridging to the Third Ship to continue his mission of offering Rayth help in the reconstruction of human towns. Ny’van stayed behind with Zy’nayth. “We may have another issue,” he said.

Zy’nayth looked up from his tablet. “What?”

“It has to do with what you mentioned. There are grumblings in the Council about you leaving the galaxy to rescue Earth.”

Zy’nayth leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. “I suspected as much. How upset are they?”

“There are many behind the door discussions. I haven’t gotten a feel for where anyone is standing on the topic, just an overall sense of the situation.”

After a deep breath, Zy’nayth stood. “Best to deal with this now.” He tapped his comlink, “Lead, I want the Council to meet again. Yes, now.”

“Might be best to think this through first,” Ny’van suggested.

“Probably,” Zy’nayth said and walked out of his office. Ny’van sighed and followed, motioning Dre’han to join them.

Once the twelve members were assembled, Zy’nayth, standing with his arms crossed across his broad chest, faced them. “The Vice Chancellor has informed me that there is disquiet about my decision to go and help Earth.”

The Lead Councilman shot Ny’van a glare. Ny’van’s expression didn’t change. He stood at the back, hands behind his back. “It is my job to know what goes on, especially if it affects the High Chancellor,” Ny’van said. “Most of what I heard was during the interrogation sessions. You talk too much when you think no one can hear you on the other side of the glass.”

Eyes went back to Zy’nayth who stated, “You know that I was here until Kiva and Jarstal were safe. At that time, we did not have exact locations for any other attacks.”

“Yes,” a Councilman said, “but you were in quite a rush to get to Terra 2 to help them.”

“Yes, and may I ask, were there any further attacks on Kiva and Jarstal while I was en route to Terra 2?”

“No, but other planets were being attacked,” another said.

“As I just stated, we did not have exact locations until the attacks happened, and when they did, the nearest warships were sent to deal with it. I cannot be on every ship at the same time. Only five have bridge portals.”

“People don’t want their leader running to save someone else when they themselves are in danger,” the Councilman said.

“Agreed,” Zy’nayth replied.

“You should have stayed.”

“Perhaps to keep up appearances. But I was directing my fleet even while helping Terra 2 and while on my way to Earth. There was nothing more I could have done or done differently had I remained in this galaxy.”

The Councilman stood. “What you did…you left your people! That is treason and I hereby demand that you relinquish your position.”

“Demand?” Zy’nayth raised an eyebrow. “Indeed. Then shall I turn the reconstruction over to you?”

“The Council can handle it, I have no doubt.”

“Indeed,” Zy’nayth said again, now pacing in front of the Council, his hands clasped behind his back. “Tell me, what do you know about the Alandrovians? My best scientists have found nothing. How do you plan to find any information on them? How, once you find this advanced race, do you plan on making them pay for the attack on our people?”

“The fleet is ours to command,” the man said.

“Oh, forgive me, but you want me to relinquish my title of High Chancellor and Supreme Commander? Both? Tell me,” he said leaning over the Councilman’s desk and staring into his eyes, “if it took all of my cunning to figure out how to disable those battlecruisers, how do you plan on taking on the empire that built them? How many wars have you fought in? How many battles have you won? I am unaware of any combat in which you have participated that was anything more than a war of words.”

“We will still have the fleet and the First Commander and First Science Commander.”

“Will you?”

“You cannot take them with you!”

“Of course not.”

“Are you saying you’d take them anyway?”

Zy’nayth pulled back, “My words were ‘of course not.’ How you choose to interpret them is for you alone. Now, in order for someone to claim the title of High Chancellor or Supreme Commander, the title must be passed to them willingly by the one in that position or you have to kill for the position.” Zy’nayth reached out and with one hand, and without much effort, hefted the Councilman over his desk as if he was only a sack of potatoes. He held onto him, looking down into his blue eyes, “I will not willingly give either of my titles to you as that would be treason. There is an advanced race out there with designs on destroying this Empire. I am the best chance we have of finding them and destroying them. Without me, the Empire will fall. So, Councilman, if you want to take control, try your best to kill me.” He shoved the Councilman away. “Whenever you are ready.”

The Lead Councilman stood. “Enough. The High Chancellor is correct. Now is not the time to stir up dissention. I warned you once. Take your seat unless you wish to fight the High Chancellor.”

“He brought this on our people!” the Councilman shouted. “How can you sit there and let him…”

“Councilman, either fight or sit,” the Lead said.

“I choose to fight for our Empire!”

“You will die,” Zy’nayth stated calmly.

The Councilman ran toward Zy’nayth but Ny’van stepped in his path and pushed him aside. “Councilman, you will die,” he said, his voice almost a whisper, “you cannot win and you will not be a martyr, only a fool. Go and sit.”

“Councilman,” the Lead said, “we must consider the ramifications. The High Chancellor is correct. We have no plan to go up against an unknown race that is capable of using Rayk engines. The High Chancellor’s command staff are loyal to him and I have no doubt that even if he didn’t ask them to leave with him, they would all resign their posts. We must work together. We’ve accomplished much for our Empire under his leadership.”

“He left his post!”

“He was in command of the fleet,” another Councilman spoke up. “We know because we were tapped into many of the conversations. I, too, am not happy that he left to go to Earth, but he was in command. His orders were followed, the enemy destroyed.”

“Gentlemen,” Zy’nayth said, “I made a choice to save Earth, to save my wife and children. Would any of you have chosen to stay and fight a battle your army had well in hand or would you go and save your wife and children?”

“Your duty is to your people!” the contesting Rayth shouted.

“Yes, it is. I am not arguing that point. I have stated that there was nothing else I could have done while in this galaxy that I could not have done en route to Earth.”

“Why didn’t you continue to pursue evidence from Di’vash and Ca’vak? It could have prevented…”

“If I recall correctly,” Zy’nayth interrupted, “I was told to step aside and let the Lawyer handle the situation.”

The Lead Councilman let out a sigh, “We can go in circles. Councilman, I encourage you to drop the topic.”

“Why? Because the Lawyer you selected…”

Zy’nayth walked up to the man and put a hand on his shoulder. “Stop,” he said quietly. “I want all of you to create a list of grievances. I will address them, in public. If the people ask me to step down, I shall. Will that suffice?”

“High Chancellor,” Ny’van spoke up, “I don’t think…”

“No. Perhaps I should have stayed; perhaps I made the correct choice by leaving. The public needs to know what I did and why I did it. Gentlemen, will my proposal suffice?”

“You know the public loves you!” the contesting Councilman shouted.

Zy’nayth shrugged his shoulders. “I will not resign my positions as I believe there is a tremendous threat out there that we have yet to uncover. None of you are equipped nor prepared to deal with it. If you do not like my proposal, then try to kill me, that is the only other way you can remove me from office.”

The Lead Councilman looked at the Councilman, “Sit. We will take the High Chancellor up on his proposal. End of discussion.”

The Councilman sighed and turned away. He reached into his jacket and turned back to Zy’nayth. It was a fast, fluid movement that let loose a knife aimed for the High Chancellor’s chest. Ny’van stood back. A fight for the chancellorship was in process, he would not interfere. He didn’t need to. Zy’nayth sidestepped the knife which buried itself up to the hilt in the wall behind him. Before the Councilmembers blinked, the rogue Councilman was on the floor, Zy’nayth’s hand over his chest. He could, in a moment, drain him of his life.

“I will go public,” Zy’nayth hissed. “I do not take attacks on my person lightly. You are young and know far less than you realize.” He stood, pulling the man up with him. “Lead, he is yours to deal with. Assistant, make arrangements for me to broadcast another speech. Tonight if possible.”

“Understood,” Dre’han said and left the Council chambers.