THE LEGEND OF GRAND MECHAPOLIS

STAR BLAZERS/GALAXY EXPRESS 999

Founding of the Dual Monarchy and Galaxy Express System

By: Frederick P. Kopetz

Chapter SIXTEEN:  For this cause, have I raised thee up…

Thanks to Gail Kopetz, Bells of Nevermore, Margaret Diviney, Michelle Nutter-Lynd, Steven Diviney, Andrea Lyon, and DTill359 for Advice and inspiration.

Bells of Nevermore’s Characters are used by permission. However, by mutual agreement, they may be written differently in the Galaxy Visions Saga than in Bells’ own works…

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I. PREPARING FOR A SUMMIT WITH HELL…

THE TELEZART STAR SYSTEM

IN ORBIT OF TELEZART

JUNE 17, 2234

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Derek and Nova Wildstar were, for the lack of a better term, cuddling skin-to-skin in their cabin aboard the Yamato at 0600 that morning.

They had awakened around 0400. Nova was feeling stronger after her ordeal of the previous day, and they had gone to each other for comfort.

Lovemaking had followed behind the privacy curtain in the Captain’s Quarters.

Now, in the afterglow of their love, Derek kissed Nova and said, “Please tell me if you think this will work out?”

“It depends upon why Zordar wants an alliance after so long,” Nova said.

“Yeah. He is showing a lot of nerve by showing up like that with a fleet,” Derek said.

“We should have our own fleet coming,” Nova said.

“Hmmh?” Derek said.

“Before I fell asleep, I sent a psychic message to Ruling Queen Rezine on Pellias to contact Prime Minister Fisher and Commanding General Sandor on Earth. I heard back that two space battleships will be here in a few hours; the new Kirishima; Captain Adam Avatar’s command, and the Duke of York, Commodore Raymond Priceman’s command. I also sent a psychic call to Invidia so that Zordar wouldn’t find a cause to break off negotiations,” Nova said as they cuddled and kissed.

Derek was on top of Nova, kissing her hair. She laughed and said, “You sure are one frisky Lord Admiral this morning.”

“You do not appear to mind.”

“No…I don’t,” Nova said.

Then, the communicator buzzed.

“Oh, kuso!” they both said in chorus.

Derek kissed Nova again, threw on a dark red kimono, and threw a two-piece gold one at Nova. They got themselves pretty much decent, and Derek answered the call as he was kicking on his geta. “Captain’s Quarter’s. Admiral Wildstar here. What’s up?”

“We just received a call…from Telezart,” Teri said nervously.

“Who would be down there?” Derek said. “I gave orders for Presha to scan the area, but she said there were no human lifeforms, although the old city appears to be rebuilt and whole and there’s even plant life springing up again.”

“One life form,” Presha said. “Giving off incredible psychic energy. She’s…”

“Derek, would you tie my obi in the back?” Nova said as she kicked her own sandals on.

“Sure,” Derek said as he helped Nova finish dressing. “But who would be doing this?”

“Myself, perhaps,” said Trelaina as she appeared in the Captain’s Quarters in a flash of light. “What a tidy little place you two keep aboard ship,” she said with a smile as she stood there in a translucent blue gown. “Please let your officers know that you and Nova will be leaving the ship for a time. I have to show you something…”

“Uh…it’s Trelaina,” Teri said nervously.

“Mother, we know that,” Nova said. “Please tell Jordy to assume command. Trelaina is up here…”

“It looks like we are making an unscheduled journey to Telezart,” Derek said.

And, before they could take a breath, Trelaina had indeed transported them down to the inner surface of Telezart.

The sandy soil seemed the same (they could easily feel it in their sandals) and as they looked up through an opening, they could see that it was still local night, and they could see the Yamato drifting above their heads in low orbit.

Trelaina looked at them and smiled. “Nova, what a lovely thing to do for me, but it was very sudden. May I ask why you remade what I was forced to destroy?”

“Zordar wanted proof of my God-given gift,” Nova said. “We are standing alive on that proof, Trelaina.”

“A very wise move, Nova. You are a fast learner and a very effective High Queen. I must commend you on your ingenuity and peaceful use of your power. Where is Emperor Zordar now?”

Nova scratched the side of her cheek and said, “Zordar is here in orbit above us. For some reason, he wants to negotiate with us. I can deal with Invidia, but never did I think we would deal with him again?”

“Why didn’t you just destroy him?” Derek said. “We know your power, Trelaina. We know you easily could have destroyed him.”

“I told you both thirty-three years ago that I had to change the evil power of Zordar,” Trelaina said.

“He seems as mad as ever,” Derek said, gritting his teeth. “And he still says he claims Earth!”

“It is a matter of pride for him,” Trelaina said as she walked around them both. “But he has learned a new way, as was Intended,” Trelaina said. “You will note that he did not attack you straight away, for one thing.”

“Well, he said some things that were very insulting to us both,” Derek huffed.

“He will never recognize you two as equals, even though in my estimation, in your relative youth, you two are almost his betters,” Trelaina said. “Zordar is over one millenia old. He is a strange and complex being, and he was once gravely hurt in the past by his one-time masters. As with Nebuchadnezzar and Pharoah in your planet’s past, he was raised up for a certain Purpose by the Highest. I will be there with you when we meet with Zordar, but, Nova, you must tell him that he was raised up for a Purpose and is in the hands of a Power greater than you or I. I am bringing others here now to assist you,” Trelaina said.

Then, there was a flash again.

Standing there, with understanding in her eyes, was Mother Miarahl, the ancient Ralkhen Shaman and Priestess, who bowed to Nova.

Standing there without an ounce of understanding, in full uniform, was their friend, Captain Adam Avatar of the Kirishima, his darn brown beard bristling as he looked at the party. He recognized Derek, saluted, and said, in a deep voice but without his late, ailing father’s growl, “Sir. Captain Avatar reporting. Your Majesty, you and the Admiral are…a little unusually dressed. Then, he looked at Trelaina and bowed. “Ma’am. Is this your doing?”

“It is,” she said. “Nova has planted. I have been sent here to assist you in the harvest.”

“What sort of harvest?” said Avatar.

Derek felt inspired and said, “Friendship and alliance, perhaps, with Gatlantis. It appears we face a common enemy in Queen Promethium.”

“Trelaina, I see the old city up ahead. It appears…I restored it…but it looks empty even though the lights are on. Do you know of a place where all of us can meet Zordar and his group?” Nova asked.

“The old Council Hall,” Trelaina said. “Follow me. I remember the way as if it was yesterday.”

But even as she walked, Trelaina’s eyes filled with tears, and she sent Derek, Nova, and Miarahl images of her memory of the Council Hall, where a terrorist attack that she had barely escaped had taken place.

“That looks horrible,” Derek said.

“The memories are very dark,” replied Trelaina. “My father was one of the Councilors slain in that attack. It was an attempt to take over the Government.”

Nova nodded. “It sounds very similar to the attack that happened in the old United States of America on Earth on January 6, 2021 when we still had totally independent nation-states,” Nova thought as she remembered old video she had seen of the event and sent it herself into the minds of the others.  “We had factions and terror and chaos on Earth, like yours on Telezart…until the attacks of the Gamilons forced us to unite.”

“That Council Hall is where I suffered a great loss,” Trelaina said as they entered the city square and walked up to a large building, going up a flight of stairs into corridors where the lights were, indeed, back on.

They found the Council Hall easily.

In fact, there were already men and women in there.

“Gatlantean,” said Miarahl softly as she listened to the language. “They are wondering what is keeping us.”

“Can we trust them, sir?” said Avatar. “I hear a lot of laughter. It makes me think we are walking into a trap.”

“Adam, that’s not Zordar’s way,” Derek said. “Even I know enough about him to know if he wanted us dead, he would have done it already.”

“How very astute, Wildstar, for a total idiot,” Zordar said mockingly as he sipped at a goblet of something that looked like wine. “And, what do you show up in? A kimono? A bathrobe? Her Majesty Nova looks marginally better like that than you do, Admiral,” he said mockingly. “Trelaina and Miarahl. You need not introduce yourselves. We have met already,” he said in a tone of voice filled with scorn. “And who are you, middle-aged Terron Captain with that beard? At least you dress like an officer!”

“Captain Adam Avatar, commander of the Commonwealth space battleship Kirishima, sir,” he said with a bow. “I was asked to come here with the Duke of York to escort the Yamato…on a ceremonial basis.”

“High Queen, is this your doing?” Zordar said as he glared into Nova’s eyes. Derek, bonded to her, felt he was mentally challenging her to a duel of minds and spirits.

Nova glanced back, hard, and she said, “You have many vessels here, Your Majesty. Is it not fair that we likewise have escorts? Right now, we are neither allies nor enemies. I recreated Telezart as neutral ground for us to negotiate on, and also to demonstrate my own gifts, Your Majesty.” Nova looked hard into Zordar’s eyes. “Will you not concede that for different reasons, you and I are basically…peers?”

Zordar looked hard at Nova. “I will concede that.”

“Very well,” Nova said. “I have a first request to lay on the table. It is non-negotiable on my part. And quite reasonable, actually.”

“For the sake of courtesy, Majesty, I will allow you to raise that request shortly. Even though I believe I have an idea what it is already. Before we get down to business,” Zordar said. “Allow me to introduce those who are with me. Princess Invidia, of my erstwhile House of Gatlantis. My Chief of Staff, Goran “Thunder” Dagarn, a most capable Admiral, and veteran of many battles, including two recent ones with the Mechanoids,” Zordar said. “Lord-General Diegus Radnar, my High Priest of Arishna,” Zordar said as Derek gritted his teeth a little at Radnar, thinking I thought you were on our side, years ago. Why are you in Zordar’s favor again? “Finally, the Captain of my new Portent of Judgment Dreadnaught, Commodore Isura Parakas,” Zordar said as an officer with a demonic-looking beard and moustache stood and bowed curtly.

Zordar looked at the group. He looked amused. “Radnar reminded me of something last night, Your Majesty. He made assurances to you years ago that were not sanctioned by the Imperial Throne. With this in mind, Majesty Nova the Third, raise your request!”

Nova looked hard at Zordar and said, “Your Majesty, you told us yesterday that you considered Terra a part of the Comet Empire due to the surrender agreement of 2201. Derek, as you and I discussed this morning, Terra and Pellias have entered into a Union that I pray will be long-lasting and Terra is now under the protection of the Commonwealth and my Throne,” Nova said. “Please drop your claim over Terra.”

“Or you will do what?” Zordar said, as Invidia grabbed his arm and again whispered, “Father…be careful. You now know what…”

“If you do not drop your claim, these negotiations are terminated forthwith,” Nova said as she stood up and pointed at Zordar. “And you will again see that what I created, I can also destroy. With a thought, and I would leave your Empire to the tender mercies of Promethium.”

Zordar glared back at Nova. “The boy. Is that where you get your tremendous cheek from? Your pet? I remember you looked as if you wanted to throw up on the deck when we last spoke thirty-three years ago.”

Derek stood up and put his arm on Nova’s shoulder. “I am not Nova’s pet. I am her peer. I have taught her much since we have been married, and she has, likewise, taught me much. I have helped forge Nova’s courage even harder; not to say she did not have courage before. Ask Leader Desslok of what I refer to. And, she has taught me compassion, patience, and tolerance. Nova is the most remarkable woman I have ever met in my life, and we are deep friends as well as lovers.”

Zordar chuckled. “Both of you have cheek. I find that very interesting. However, Your Majesty, you drive a very good and wise bargain.” Zordar clapped his hands. “I renounce my claims upon Terra if you will pronounce hostilities between us ended, Your Majesty.”

Nova smiled. “Consider it done. Now, let’s sit down, and let’s be cool…all of us.”

“Cool?” Zordar said, puzzled.

“Cool means…let us calm down,” Invidia said. “They talk like that, strangely, full of nonsensical slang. I have known her for years, Father. In my exile under Trelaina’s disguise and protection, I was married to a Terron…a wealthy one…and I lived on the same road as they did,” Invidia said. “There are times I actually miss being on Terra. It is a primitive but interesting and exotic planet.”

“So, I understand,” Zordar said. “Commodore Parakus!”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” said the Gatlantean.

“Ready the data tapes. Trelaina can assist you since I am aware she knows how to manipulate this visual equipment. When we finish these negotiations, you will be promoted to Prince and take command of the Gatlantis city-ship.”

“Father!” cried Invidia.

“That is because, Princess Invidia, I am sending you to the Pellias-Terra System as my Ambassador. If you like the Terrons and Pellians so much, you shall go live with them and represent me before them. That is, does Her Majesty the High Queen accept Invidia’s credentials as Head of an Embassy?”

“I do, on a provisional basis,” Nova said. Derek gave her a look, but Nova sent to him, we shall assuredly keep careful tabs on her. She can be trusted…within limits.

She can’t spy on us, Nova, Derek sent back.

I shall devise means to make sure of that, Derek, Nova sent back as she patted his hand. Thank you for speaking up for me.

Derek smiled at her as the room went dark.

“What the heck is going on?” said Avatar.

“Trelaina and Parakus intend to show some video,” Miarahl replied.

“I do. Your Majesty?”

“Hold for a moment,” Zordar said. “This was the result of a battle between our forces and Promethium’s fifteen days ago near the Rotella System; a small system known as the Viridias system. The video is from drones released from Prince Katara’s City-ship and our Fleet units. Observe.”

At first, they watched what appeared to be a normal battle between a Gatlantean Fleet, and a large Mechanoid Fleet. Derek shivered as he watched the lead Gatlantean ship using a Magna-Flame Cannon to warp bursts of Magna-Energy into the Mechanoid Fleet.

The Mechanoids pulled back and rapidly brought wave motion guns up on line and fired at the Gatlanteans; some even fired upon the planet the Gatlanteans were defending.

Then, a blue-white Comet ship warped in at a ninety-degree angle to the Mechanoid Fleet. Mechanoid ships were sucked into its Comet maw and mangled.

Derek squeezed Nova’s hand hard as memories of the demise of the Earth Fleet in 2201 came back to his mind and he remembered how they had been sucked into the maw of the Comet…

Nova sent to Derek, Remember, three years ago, Invidia used one of those on our side to aid us against Promethium. Do not judge them by the past. Times change!

A moment later, a massive blue-white Earthlike planet appeared from nowhere in a warp.

It moved.

The planet sent a message. “Gatlantis Forces. This is the citadel world Defuel. Surrender your forces to us now. Or face the consequences in Promethium’s Name if you will not join with us and become machines.”

Nova recognized the voice and shivered. Count Mecha. That murderer still lives!

Prince Katara appeared on screen. He was a handsome, tall, Gatlantean who looked somewhat like Var. “And what are those consequences? This is our Empire. You cannot dictate to us.”

“Observe the consequences! Observe our Entropy Wave!”

Then, the planet blasted a lance of energy, greenish-yellow, burning with lightning, out towards the system’s very star.

Nova shivered as she saw the beam, and she looked stricken and held the edge of the table and clenched her fingers and toes.

She remembered her own death three years ago at the end of the same energy weapon, and she could barely watch as the same destructive force slammed like an express train into the Gatlantean system’s star.

The star went supernova, turned into a morbid, horrid weapon as Planet Defuel vanished. The Comet was consumed by the flame front. So were all of the ships, both Gatlantean and Mechanoid.

The planet went up like paper in a furnace as it crumpled into the exploding star. The image winked out as a surviving drone warped back out to the nearest Gatlantean ship; Zordar’s own Portent of Judgment.

“The drone came back to us a few days ago,” Invidia said, and then she stopped as Derek held a stricken, weeping Nova.

“I know what it feels like to be hit by one of those…” Nova mumbled. “That same weapon killed me. It killed Astrena…it…”

To everyone’s surprise, Zordar laid a hand on Nova’s shoulder as Derek snarled.

“Wildstar, boy…I mean her no harm whatsoever!” he snapped curtly.

Zordar looked at Nova, and that was the first time Derek had ever seen compassion in those horrid yellow eyes. “Nova. The memory is leaking out of your mind,” Zordar said. “So that is what it feels like to die? You had a very painful death indeed, and you were very brave in stopping that wave with only your own naked body as a shield. Your morality impresses even me. Now imagine seven billion people dying like that, under that sort of beam…screaming into the void in an instant. I felt our subjects screaming. I felt my brothers and sisters of Our Race screaming. I even felt the Mechanoid sentients their own commander condemned to death screaming. What a horrible, morbid, diseased way to die.”

Zordar stepped back. “Boy, I sent some calming waves into her mind. I myself am a mentalist; a very powerful telepath, even though I must say Her Majesty has strong mental defenses for one so young. Finish sending your love and peace into her heart.”

“You want to learn from us how to fight that, don’t you…Your Majesty?” Derek said as Nova sobbed in his arms.

Zordar gritted his own teeth and showed his fangs. “To our everlasting shame, Wildstar, yes. That is why I sought out your High Queen. Perhaps she has an answer, and it is clear that the Mechanoids intend to wipe out all sentient, organic lifeforms. I would not wish such a death on anyone…not even you, young man. Nor your young comrade, the young Avatar. Adam Avatar. I heard of your late father and his accomplishments from Desslok. It is a shame he and I never met in battle.”

“A strange honor, Zordar, but I shall accept it,” Adam said.

Nova sat up and she wiped her eyes. “Derek…Trelaina, that is why we need to ally…even with Gatlantis. In the words of a wise Terran named Benjamin Franklin, Your Majesty, if we do not hang together…”

“We shall most assuredly hang separately,” Zordar added. “You had some good thinkers, as primitive as your race is. And you indeed have a subtle mind yourself. I show you mercy out of respect for that subtle mind and your gifts.”

“She sees very far, Zordar,” Trelaina said. “Possibly farther than even I.”

“Your Majesty, we worked with them before,” said Radnar. “For whatever reason, Arishna’s favor appears to be upon this race. Balance, Your Majesty. For now, both the light and dark sides of humanity need to join forces in a battle against an even worse evil.”

“I cannot disagree,” Zordar said. “Let us end this for today. We shall meet tomorrow, at the same place, in order to begin to forge…the essentials of our alliance, against Promethium and all of her works.”

“Your Majesty, I extend my sincere thanks,” Nova said as she stood up. “And you showed a side of yourself you never showed us before.”

“That is because I only showed you the harsh side of power,” Zordar said. “In this conflict, it appears you and I have the same aims. Self-preservation?”

“Mutual preservation,” Nova said as she squeezed Derek’s hand. “Derek, let’s go.”

The two of them got up and left, followed by Trelaina and the others.

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II. DAY TWO OF NEGOTIATIONS…

THE TELEZART STAR SYSTEM

IN ORBIT OF TELEZART

JUNE 18, 2234

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On Telezart, the parties met again for a second round of negotiations.

This time, Derek was in a proper uniform and looked polished and formal from head to toe.

Nova looked more formal and queenly this time out, dressed in a floor length black dress with matching black heels and long black gloves. She also had her hair down long, and had added some length to it last night after due meditation, and she had caused her eye color to go back to brown.

Captain Adam Avatar took a picture of them in an anteroom before they went in to meet with Zordar and the others.

Nova’s Imperishable Crown of Power burned at her brow and she looked serious and pensive.

To her right, Derek stood a little away from her, looking over his shoulder at her and the surroundings, acting almost more like a guard than a husband in his stance.

“Thank you, Captain,” Nova said as Avatar was done taking pictures.

“Of course,” he said as he bowed and went to meet Trelaina and Miarahl.

Nova looked at Derek. “You look unhappy.”

“Unhappy? I’m overjoyed,” Derek said sarcastically. “Preparing for another day of sitting beside you with Zordar insulting me while you just nod and play Statesman with him and don’t say much.”

“I had plenty to say to him yesterday, in case you have forgotten, Derek,” Nova said. She looked at him and whispered, “Where were you last night? I missed you in our quarters.”

“Wandering the ship. I couldn’t sleep that well,” Derek said. “When I got too tired, I ended up crashing in the VIP Cabin aboard ship.”

“You could have come up to our quarters,” Nova said softly.

“And disturb your royal and diplomatic thought processes and meditations? No, thanks.”

“I was trying to sleep. I missed you,” Nova whispered.

“Then how come you didn’t come down to me?”

“I thought you’d be up any minute. You told me that when I sent to you.”

“Maybe you should have asked Zordar to show up and comfort you,” Derek snorted. “You seemed to be pretty chummy with him yesterday.”

“Derek!” Nova said to him as she motioned him into a room and slammed the door. “Is this what this is? You’re jealous?”

“That and I’m not a charter member of the Emperor Zordar Fan Club,” he snarled. “And didn’t you tell me months ago that you may have to take actions you’d have to regret in order to make peace with him?”

“Like what?” Nova said with some heat.

“Sleep with him, maybe?” Derek snarled.

Nova glanced hard at Derek and slapped him across the face. “If you must know, he sent me a thought to that effect! I told him no! Although I saw, briefly, a timeline where he forced me to. That timeline will not occur here, Derek. And may it never occur!”

“Why?”

“Because I love you and only you, you idiot!” Nova said. “Now, Derek, stop acting like a pig-headed child! You’re my right-hand man, and will be beside me at all times as my Special Forces Lord Admiral aboard Yamato. Aboard ship I usually listen to you because Yamato is your baby! You’ve always been content to let me make the political decisions with my local rulers and Parliament while you make the military ones with Sandor! You’re not thinking of resigning command of Yamato, are you? If you don’t want to be a party to this, I can swap you with Avatar and have you head home or out on patrol without me!”

“You wouldn’t,” Derek said in a stricken voice.

“I could,” Nova said, touching Derek’s cheek in a gesture of reconciliation. “But I don’t particularly want to. You’re my oldest friend and comrade remaining on Yamato from the original crew, and the only man I love and the only man I will ever love. Do you still love me?”

There was a long silence. “I do, Nova, but sometimes, your decisions make me wonder a little…for the love of Heaven…be careful.”

“I am being careful,” Nova said. “Why do you think I insist on you being with me?” she said as she linked arms with her husband.

He looked at Nova and smiled a little. “Mind if I kiss your Royal Cheek?”

“Not at all,” she said.

She heard footsteps coming, so she used her power to open the door all the way.

Thus, planned quite intentionally by Nova when she sensed Zordar’s presence, Zordar, Invidia, and Goran were quite able to look in to see Derek holding Nova quite closely, in a passionate kiss as Nova clung to him like glue, and Nova subtly sent to Zordar and Derek, Your Majesty, no peace offer you make shall ever tear me away from this. I am no man’s mistress nor concubine. I am the wife of this man and I intend to remain with him until Death do us part. I hope that makes my intent clear.

And, Derek also sent, quietly but firmly to Zordar, you shall have to fight me to the death if you want Nova’s hand. And she will be at my side fighting with me. Are we clear?

“You two are quite nauseatingly clear,” Zordar replied out loud with a twisted laugh. “I still think you are slumming, Your Majesty, marrying this boy when you could have had so much more. There was another High Queen by your name; Nova the Second. She and I fought like bitter enemies. We finally made an alliance and sealed it in bed.”

“I am not Nova the Second,” Nova said after kissing Derek on the nose. “I am Nova the Third. I do not have the morals of an alley cat, and for that I apologize, if I must, but I am very old-fashioned. Derek and I just had a quarrel. We just resolved it. He sits at my right hand today and always. I hope we are clear on that?”

“You are,” Zordar snarled. “You most certainly are.”

“Father, I told you,” Invidia said. “These two are the most nauseatingly in love with each other couple I have ever seen. They give me the diabetes! If you must know, though, I always fancied the young, dashing Derek.”

“We’ve been over this before, Invidia,” Nova said, almost lightly. “I’ve got him. You can’t have him.”

“What about one of your sons?” Invidia said. “I know your daughter Teresa fancies Var of Septigram.”

“Invidia, if you want to talk to our son Steven, that can be arranged after we finish these negotiations,” Nova said almost tartly. “I don’t think Theodore would be interested. We are not on the best of terms with him anyway, and Alexander is taken.”

Derek was intrigued, though, by a statement of Zordar’s as they went into the conference room. “Your Majesty Zordar,” Derek said. “Did you say Pellias and Gatlantis were once allies?”

“Your Nova never told you?” Zordar hissed. “The Pellian Commonwealth and Gatlantis were allies over sixteen hundred of your years ago. In my youth long ago, High Queen Nova the Second and I fought a bitter fleet action and sword duel that led to peace between us. The peace held until we lost touch with Pellias about two centuries ago, but there were six prior battles in which Pellians and Gatlanteans fought as one against Ekogaru the Great.”

“Is this true?” Derek snapped.

Miarahl came in leaning on her staff and she said, while carrying two old scrolls, “It is true. I still remember witnessing the treaty signing between Nova the Second and you, Your Majesty Zordar, with your Emperor’s approval, as if it were yesterday. I recall every High Queen who ever held the Throne,” Miarahl said. “I can read in your mind, Nova, were you and Nova the Second alike? You were close, but no. Your mannerisms, and even appearance, are far closer to those of High Queen Pellas herself, Peace be upon her forever until she rises from Death on the Last Day. Some of us even say, Nova, Your Majesty, that you are Queen Pellas come back to us again. I correct them. We have never been able to reincarnate, unlike our Iscandarian cousins.”

Derek still questioned her with raised eyebrows. Nova shut her eyes and said, “The Matrix gave me images of what happened. So, Your Majesty, Emperor Zordar, we are not working to make a new treaty…”

“…but to reaffirm an ancient one,” Zordar replied with a smile. “And, Wildstar, be assured that as long as Pellias and Terra are joined in alliance and friendship, Terra is safe from our designs of conquest. I make this declaration out of respect of our old bond and out of respect to your lovely, wise, Charismatic High Queen, a woman whose shoes you are not fit to remove. You are but a common boy. A brave one, I will grant it, but bear in mind that if you ever break your Queen’s heart, what understanding you and I have as men, if indeed I can call you a man, is totally null and void, and I shall be forced by honor to take your foolish head. Are we clear, Wildstar?”

“We are clear, Your Majesty,” Derek said with fire in his eyes. “However, should you ever harm my Lady, the opposite shall be true on my side.”

Zordar laughed bitterly at that. “Should you ever retire from the Fleet, young man, you would make a wonderful Court Jester for me, you ever-so-honorable idiot!”

“Your Majesty,” Nova said as she squeezed Derek’s hand. “Are we going to trade insults all day, or are we going to negotiate? If the former, please excuse me, because I have better things to do.” She got up, nudging Derek to stand up with her.

“Ma’am, you’re walking out?” said Captain Avatar with concern in his eyes. “Your Majesties, can’t we simply calm down?”

“Captain Adam Avatar,” Zordar said slowly. “You do give good counsel. Let us take our ease. Miarahl, let us look at those ancient treaties, and see how much of them we can translate into modern linguistics for our purposes?”

“A wise idea, Majesty,” said the old Ralkhen.

Nova sent to her, Has he always been like this?

He has mellowed a little with age, dear. But, remember, we are still dealing with a very dangerous and complex man.

Well, he is dealing with a dangerous and complex woman in myself, Nova sent back.

“You are not as dangerous as Promethium, Nova,” rumbled Zordar. “I tried to negotiate with her, I would have you know. She does not negotiate. She demands, and she demands total obeisance and demands that all organic life become her mechanical slaves. A pity, really, since power rests in my hands. Do not reproach me, Trelaina,” he said, looking at her. “I know there are other powers we all are responsible to.”

“You reminded my Lord of our sworn obedience to Arishna, of the Masked and Impartial Justice,” said Radnar.

“My allegiance,” Nova said tartly. “Is to a Higher Power. Or do you not know I am a Steward and Messenger as well?”

“Our religious debates should wait until another time,” Trelaina said. “Tolerance, remember? Even though you still have much to learn, Emperor Zordar.”

“Bear in mind, what I shall learn, I shall learn in my own time. Let us look over those old treaties…see what we can re-create…”

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III. DAY TEN OF NEGOTIATIONS…AND A BRIEF BREAK

DESSLOK’S PALACE

PLANET GAMILON

JUNE 28, 2234

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There was a brief break in negotiations while Derek and Nova (through Nova’s power) teleported to Gamilon to consult with Desslok on everything Zordar had reported to them thus far about Defuel, the moving world of Death.

They sat in a conference room on Gamilon; Desslok on one side of a holoprojector, Derek and Nova (who had most thoroughly reconciled) on a couch on the other side.

Desslok shut his eyes and looked a little stricken as he saw the action that Zordar had captured through his drones in the Viridias System.

When they were done, and a still image of Defuel came up in the holographic beam, Desslok said, “If this is totally accurate, Promethium is using a terribly warped weapon against us. By us, I mean all organic life. I must even include Zordar in that category, as power-mad as he was and as you both have reported to me, still is.”

 “I have not read any insincerity in that dark mind,” Nova said. “As warped as he is, he is, probably for the first time in centuries, or for the first time since he met Trelaina twice over, scared of something he cannot control.”

“I aided you both against him when I advised you to attack Gatlantis from the bottom,” Desslok said. “How strange it is that now we may need him to guard the Andromeda front…for now. It concerns me that he has Radnar on his side, as it appears. They have forgotten Zordar’s grant of the Throne of House Gatlantis to myself, even though I never exercised it, except through Radnar. Were it not for the danger we all face, Radnar’s defection alone would be enough grounds for a causus belli on my part…but, unfortunately, Derek, other affairs, it appears, have us all in the same basket against those cyborgs.”

“I see a city on the far side of that world,” Derek said. “Perhaps we can attack that planet and its control centers by attacking that city.”

“Which would give us a respite for my forces to come in with proton missiles,” Desslok said. “If we could track down that world and destroy it without involving Zordar, he would respect us far more and be more wary of crossing us,” Desslok mused as he switched the image to that of Planet Telezart. “I must say, Nova, your reconstruction…of Telezart has given Zordar quite some pause. Very pacifistic. And very effective,” Desslok said with a dark smile.

“Would you advise us to reaffirm the old alliance between Pellias and Gatlantis, Abelt?” Nova said. “I admit, I thought I was so clear in my resolve, as much as it…disgusts me,” Nova said as she squeezed Derek’s hand hard “…to reaffirm an alliance with Zordar…just to protect us from a new attack on his part, at the very least. I saw that light in his eyes, and I felt that rage in his mind. Zordar reminds me of a cornered dog.”

“And he is just as dangerous as one,” Desslok said. He sighed. “Derek, Nova, I would reaffirm that alliance…by chance…or by Adonai’s Wisdom, the Union of Pellias and Terra is a very effective cloak over Terra. My request is that you work the treaty in such a way that he cannot attack any of your allies; such as Iscandar, ourselves…or the Rikashans.”

“We did not intend to leave you or our other allies in the cold,” Derek said.

“If he does not agree, at the least, to a truce with Gamilon, I will not sign any sort of treaty with him,” Nova said.

“And then?” Desslok said.

“We would then have to prepare for that which we do not want, Abelt,” Derek said. “War on three fronts, with the Mechanoids, the Bolars, and Gatlantis.”

“Appraise me of what happens, please, my friends…my kin…” Desslok said as he stood and the three of them embraced. “Either way, I shall prepare for a general mobilization. Should he turn on you and attack Telezart, or the Yamato and her escorts, Nova, you simply have to whisper into my mind. I will come at once to aid you and Derek upon your call.”

“Thank you, Desslok…my old friend…my kin,” Derek said.

“I would gladly do anything for you or your lovely Queen,” Desslok said as he bowed. “Fare thee well.”

He left, and Derek and Nova held hands and winked back to Telezart.

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“So, Father, do you think they’ll come back from consulting with zat arrogant Desslok?” Invidia asked.

“It would serve them to do so,” Zordar said as he and Invidia walked around a restored garden inside one of the buildings connected to the Council Hall on Telezart. “Those two, like anyone else, act out of self-interest. The boy’s self-righteousness disgusts me, and under her kind veneer, that High Queen is a schemer playing her own game of Ge’mat with poisoned blades. She is not as pure as she appears to be. Like any ruler, even like you, Invidia, she has her own agenda.”

Zordar embraced his daughter and turned abruptly from her. “I honestly do not trust either of you. Your defenses are too good. What sort of game are you playing with me here?”

“Securing an alliance to guard our backs while we arm against those cyborgs,” Invidia said. “As for the others…even Nova…”

“Are you saying they are all expendable?” rumbled Zordar.

“Let them make the majority of the sacrifices and take the glory. Desslok and Nova are two of a kind, like Derek. All idealistic and very rash. There will come a time when they stretch their sword-arms too far…”

“And they may slay Promethium but die in the process, leaving myself to clean up the wreckage?” said Zordar.

Invidia nodded. “Desslok, Derek Wildstar, Yamato, and this High Queen Nova, in spite of the fact she is my friend, are all very dangerous. Let them take the fall for us.”

“You and I are again two of a kind,” said Zordar approvingly. “And, when they are all dead, we can seize what remains!” Zordar began to laugh like mad at that.

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A while later, the group sat down to negotiate again after Derek and Nova had returned.

Zordar said, “So, High Queen. You desire assurances that I will not attack Gamilon, Iscandar, or Rikasha?”

“Yes,” Nova said. “All of us are in alliance against Promethium,” she said evenly while Derek smiled at her; now that he fully understood the bargain that Nova was pushing, he had no further doubts about her honesty or faithfulness to the full Alliance.

“That may be well for Iscandar and the Rikashan Federation,” Zordar rumbled. “However, you and I both know that Desslok was a blade who turned upon me when he had you and the boy on the ground and was ready to cut your throats and finish your wreck of a ship. I gave him back his flagship so he could do that. And he did what? He turned on me! He committed perfidy and treason even worse than you Terrans!” Zordar roared. “Do not deny it, Nova Dawn Yukiko Wildstar! I am even now drawing the images from your mind, you young, conniving bitch! He told you how to defeat us! He gave you back your weapon! He even treated you as an Honored Lady after you both killed my representative Morta!”

“In self-defense,” Nova snapped. “Your Morta shot first! Desslok and I saved Derek from a cold-blooded killer who was firing at my back and Derek’s!”

“No! I think you and Desslok fired first and committed cold-blooded murder of a Gatlantean officer, with the boy too far gone to notice! Both you and Desslok should be executed with torture to avenge Morta!”

“Try it,” Nova said with fire in her eyes. “I’m not afraid to face death! I have been dead already, Zordar. I don’t know about you!”

Derek snarled at Zordar. “My wife speaks the truth! Your Morta shot first. Nova and Desslok were both defending me from treachery! I will never forget then how both Desslok and my dear Nova helped me to my feet until Nova could hold me up alone!”

“Desslok is a traitor and war criminal, worthy only of death!” Zordar said as Radnar wanted to say something and even Invidia wanted to speak. “Nova, you are just a garden-variety murderer, and…”

Trelaina then stood up. “You wanted to negotiate with Her Majesty, Zordar. Are you deluded enough to belittle and insult the very woman whose help you need?”

And, as she said that, Nova and Derek stood up as one, holding hands. Derek said, “We’ve had enough of this, Zordar. At the very least, we will leave with no deal and leave you all alone to face Promethium.”

Nova said, in a deadly but quiet voice, “As much as I hate to say this, it may take the death of many more of your people for you to see reason and accept my terms, which are both logical and even well-advised under the circumstances. You said it yourself. If we do not hang together, we shall all hang separately. I have nothing further to say to you, Emperor. Grant Yamato and her escorts safe-conduct to leave, or you shall pay the consequences.”

“Consequences?” said Zordar.

Nova was about to turn away, but she said to Zordar, “Trelaina only sent you to a purgatory of her own making. You evidently learned very little there. If you force me to attack you…I will send you straight to Hell! That means you, your Generals, and Invidia, whom I thought was my friend.”

Nova and Derek turned their backs on the Gatlanteans and were ready to walk out.

Zordar reached for his sword, in an utter rage.

“No, Father,” Invidia said. “Trelaina has not turned her back on us. Do you think we will escape them BOTH? I saw them moving worlds! Father! Fighting them would be suicide!”

“Your Majesty,” Zordar said with gritted teeth and bowed head as he sheathed his sword. “If you insist upon it, I think I can show clemency to you and to Desslok. We need this alliance.”

“Apologize to Nova for what you called her!” Derek barked.

Zordar looked hard at both of the Wildstars. “I will apologize, but because I am showing mercy to the High Queen and Trelaina. NOT to you, boy! Consider yourself fortunate that you did not fire at Morta. Otherwise, I would behead you without a single thought. Shall we sit down and see how we can include Gamilon, Iscandar, and the Rikashan barbarians in our…alliance?”

“Very good,” Nova said. “I am glad to see that we understand each other…Your Majesty.”

Zordar gave Nova only a curt nod.

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Four more days of negotiations followed as June turned into July.

They were not pleasant for any of the parties involved.

Zordar almost walked out three times.

Trelaina waked out once with Miarahl.

Captain Avatar walked out on Day Thirteen; July the First. He told Admiral Wildstar and Nova, “I can’t take listening to him. He is the basest liar and maniac I have ever met. Be very careful in dealing with him.”

“We will be,” Derek said, back in his peacoat, as Nova stood beside him in her own dove-grey peacoat and white uniform and boots. She wanted to forcefully remind Zordar that she was a military officer in her own right, wearing the same five stars on her epaulets as Derek did as Lord Admiral, in her role as First Admiral as Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth. Nova came to the remaining sessions in uniform.

On Day Sixteen, July the Third, there seemed to be enough of an accord that Zordar ordered his scribes to draw up the treaty they had agreed upon.

On the Yamato, calls were placed to the Commonwealth Fleet; ten Terran and five Pellian ships would arrive in a few days; one of the ships, the Pellian Carrier Independence, carried Ruling Queen Rezine, Prime Minister Natalie Fisher, and some representatives from the Senate and Commanding General Stephen Sandor, who was just beginning to show his age.

A call was also placed to the Gamilons.

Desslok stated that he would arrive in four days with his own fleet.

Zordar was duly notified of these arrivals.

Finally, by July the Sixth, Sandor had arrived again aboard the Yamato for the first time in quite a while, and he was warmly greeted by Derek and Nova.

A while later, they stood in the main hangar deck on the Yamato, awaiting the arrival of a single Gatlantean Scorpion fighter, which landed in the Yamato’s enlarged flight bay.

The ramp opened, and for the first time ever, Emperor Zordar himself boarded the Yamato. He had personally flown over from his Dreadnaught, and he was accompanied by Invidia and General Goran Dagram.

Derek, Nova and Sandor gave proper courtesy salutes, but Zordar only responded with a curt nod.

“I don’t believe I remember you,” Zordar said as he walked up to Sandor.

“Your Majesty, I am Commanding General Stephen Sandor, Commanding General and Chief of Staff of all Commonwealth forces. Lord Admiral Wildstar here is the Special Mission Forces Fleet Commander and the skipper of the Yamato. Her Majesty, Nova Wildstar the Third, is the High Queen of the Commonwealth and Commander-in-Chief of all Military Forces.”

“Thank you for the introduction, General,” Zordar growled. “Her Majesty, I know all too well. Lord Admiral Wildstar, the boy, has done well for himself.”

“Please follow us to the First Bridge,” Derek said.

“I would be so charmed,” Invidia said.

“This ship is smaller than I thought,” growled Goran. “I understand she has an amazing reputation.”

“She is a piece of recycled scrap,” Zordar growled. They walked towards a lift and entered as Nova escorted them, leaving Derek and Steve behind.

“Charming, isn’t he?” Sandor said to Lord Admiral Wildstar.

“More fun than a barrel of monkeys,” muttered Derek.

“You’re sure Nova will be safe in that lift with that bunch, Wildstar?” Sandor whispered.

“She’s shown enough backbone and power that I think they’ll think twice about messing with her,” Derek said.

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A few minutes later, everyone was on the First Bridge.

Zordar said irritably. “Greetings, young man. I see you made it. I was discussing your vessel with…your better half? I would have, candidly, much preferred a conversation with her to a conversation with you!”

“My ship, my tour,” Derek snapped. Most of the Bridge crew was shocked to see Zordar himself walking around on the ship. “Review again, for the benefit of the rest of my crew, why we are meeting?”

“What are you, young man, an idiot?” Zordar said. “You were beside Her Majesty at our first discussion. We discussed our reasons for a meeting of the minds then. Fortunately, I had Invidia there to mediate. We are fighting the same enemy; the Mechanoid Empire. We need to coordinate our efforts. That is why I want this. So does your wife. Even though I still think she married beneath her.”

“Your Majesty, we are about to sign an accord,” Nova said as she sat down in her uniform at her old post at the radar. “Can you please…please…stow the snobbery? I had no idea of my heritage when Derek and I met and fell in love. We were just two crew members on this ship drawn together by friendship, love, and Fate in the Will of my God.”

Derek gritted his teeth when Nova was mentioned. “Are you sure you aren’t giving her the mushroom treatment, Zordar? Nova is a very sweet woman, but there are times when she is…too damn idealistic.”

“Tell me what you mean by the mushroom treatment, Wildstar,” growled Zworder.

“The mushroom treatment is keeping her in the dark and giving her crap to eat.”

“You accuse me of negotiating in bad faith? HAH. I do have my own agenda as a ruler! I have an agenda of my own that I need not tell you. Or even her. But I assure you I am negotiating in good faith. Are you, boy?”

“Wish you’d tell me…you madman! You tried once with us, Zordar. Want to try to conquer us again? Is that it?”

“I know Nova has her own agenda. That mighty space witch has a good reason, I bet, in keeping me from her mind. That white mist of hers? And her display of power here at Telezart? How do we know she is negotiating in good faith?”

“Don’t call her a witch!”

“I do not like being called a madman, you asshole, nor of being reminded of my failures from a generation ago! And your wife IS a witch!” Zordar snarled.

“Tell me, do you really want peace between us?” Derek barked. “I do!”

“So do I,” Nova snapped. “Zordar, I’m uniquely gifted. I do not appreciate being called a witch. Tell me, you said you wanted to negotiate because of the threat of Promethium and my power.”

“I need not tell you what I think, but I would not be here talking with you if I meant harm since would have already ordered an attack” Zordar said.

Presha got up from the Combat Station and said, “Your Majesty. I negotiated with you over the video screen years and years ago. I see that you have not changed. No courtesy whatsoever.”

“I show courtesy to my peers, which you and the Wildstar boy definitely are not,” Zordar said.

Nova stood before Zordar and glared at him. “Your Majesty. If we are going to sign this treaty, there will be a share of courtesy. Is that too much to ask?”

“The courtesy I show you, Your Majesty, is that I have not slaughtered you yet,” Zordar growled. “Continue the tour. You shall be the tour guide. Let your rag-tag officers tag along.”

“Thank you for the invitation, Your Majesty,” Sandor said in a cold voice.

Nova led the group out.

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ONE DAY LATER…

JULY 7, 2234

In orbit of Telezart, the Gamilon fleet arrived. Desslok had brought his flagship and one hundred ships, which sat near the Yamato and the ninety ships which surrounded her by now.

Back on Telezart, the group had moved to a larger conference room.

In front of a painting of stars, Emperor Desslok made his appearance with General Talan.

Derek, Nova, and the others waited with bated breath to see what would happen.

Then to everyone’s surprise, Zordar simply looked at Desslok….

…and he embraced him.

“Emperor Desslok,” Zordar rumbled. “We observed that you have brought a fleet as mighty as mine and as mighty as what the High Queen of the Commonwealth has brought. It is good to see you again after so long, Desslok.”

“When we parted, things were not as pleasant between us,” Desslok said, glancing at Invidia and then at Zordar.

To Zordar’s surprise, Desslok and Talan sat down beside Derek and Nova to either side after he also embraced Derek and then kissed Nova’s hand. “Starsha sends her greetings, love and prayers to you both,” Desslok said.

“You will note that I hold all of you in tremendous trust,” Zordar said. “The two of you outnumber me. We shall sign on that basis as we have a common foe. Any other issues between us…can and will be solved privately,” Zordar added with a wolfish smile.

“Yes, and they shall be,” Desslok said with a smile of his own. “Please take a care and show Queen Starsha’s parents here a measure of respect. Starsha died but reincarnated as the child of the Wildstars. Both of them, Your Majesty,” Desslok said. “Furthermore, both of the Wildstars and I have fought many battles together as allies. I request you show them the regard due their positions…Emperor Zordar.”

You arrogant bastard, Zordar thought as he smiled. You have become more arrogant with age and experience, Desslok. How is it that you have rebuilt your Empire from almost nothing? I would love to know that…

“Enough of testing each other, please,” Nova said as she stood up, pointedly holding Derek’s hand. “Shall we take our leisure and look over the draft treaty?”

“Excellent advice, my dear Nova,” Desslok said.

“I shall do as you ask, Your Majesty,” Zordar rumbled slowly. “After all, does not the blood of the living flow through all of our veins? None of us are Machine People.”

“You are correct, Your Majesty,” Derek said.

Zordar gave Derek only a curt nod; the most courteous greeting he had given him in these tense days.

Finally, Zordar said, “Now that we have the signatories present, I believe these negotiations are over with. We shall sign the treaties and protocols tomorrow, at noon, local Meridian time. Invidia, Goran, let us leave.”

The Gatlanteans left.

“So, what do you advise, Desslok?” Derek said.

“Caution. Especially where Invidia is involved.”

“She will be remaining with us as her father’s representative,” Nova said.

“All the more reason to watch her closely,” Desslok said softly.

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IV. AN ALLIANCE IS SIGNED…AND TESTED

PLANET TELEZART

THE HALL OF THE PEOPLES

JULY 8, 2234

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News commentators from several systems watched as Lord Admiral Derek Wildstar signed the Alliance Treaty between Gatlantis, the Commonwealth, and Gamilon, counter-signed by Sandor.

Desslok and Talan came forward and signed the treaty, and then Trelaina signed as witness, with Mark Venture watching her in a civilian suit, since he was retired now from the Fleet.

Finally, Zordar and Nova faced each other across the table.

Both of them signed the treaty, and then shook hands, to great applause. A Yin-Yang symbol was erected on a wall behind them to show the nature of the Alliance; Darkness and Light joined together, for once, in a desperate battle for survival.

With that done, the two potentates motioned Derek, Sandor, Desslok, Invidia, and Goran over.

A servant poured them Gatlantean Brandy, a strong, purplish drink that Nova carefully scanned with her mind before drinking. No poison or drugs, she thought. An honest toast.

“To victory over Promethium!” Zordar said as he raised his glass.

“To friendship and to peace for all of us after victory,” replied Nova.

All of them drank their toast; their resolve ceremonially sealed under Gatlantean, Gamilon, and even ancient Pellian customs.

“Let us share the banquet!” Zordar said. He looked at Derek and said, “Boy, please do not throw the food at anyone.” A slight smirk went across Zordar’s lips.

Then, Derek realized…was this…?

“Your Majesty?” said Derek. “Was that a joke?”

“No. An honest hope that you don’t throw the food on Trelaina’s floor…barbarian,” Zordar said with a nod.

Nova said. “If he starts a food fight, I respond in kind.”

“We have interesting allies, Princess,” Radnar whispered to Invidia.

“That we do,” said Invidia.

“I still like to throw food and bones,” said Goran.

“You would,” Zordar replied.

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A day or so passed.

The fleet units were making ready to disperse and return to their home bases…

When, at the Yamato’s radar, Sasha cried out.

“Admiral!” she said. “A massive fleet is warping in, right in front of our fleet, the Gamilons, and the Gatlanteans.”

“Range?” Derek said.

“One hundred megameters! Fleet units unidentified! I am reading six hundred ships of varied types.”

Damn, Derek thought.

“They’re…hailing us,” Teri Forrester said from her post.

The face of a dark-looking Mechanoid male…they thought, came up on the Yamato’s screen.

“I am High Admiral Kamaris,” said the evil-looking face on the main screen. “In Promethium’s Name, I claim this world for our Empire.”

Derek responded, “Planet Telezart…is a neutral world. As you will notice, I lead a fleet from the Terran-Pellian Commonwealth. We have allies; Emperor Desslok of Gamilon aboard the Gamilstadt IV, and Emperor Zordar of Gatlantis aboard the Portent of Justice. I am Lord Admiral Derek Wildstar, commander of the space battleship Yamato. I represent Her Majesty High Queen Nova Wildstar. I will give your Fleet thirty minutes to turn about and warp out of this sector.”

“What if we do not?” sneered Kamaris.

Zordar broke into the conversation. “We will destroy you. We will not even leave corpses. You will be no more, Kamaris. I suggest that you listen to the young man. He tends to have…how shall I put it…an itchy trigger finger? Consider this. Compared to all of us…you are nothing!”
“I intend to wait to see what you will do,” said Kamaris.”

“We shall see what will happen,” said Derek with an evil grin. “You probably won’t like it.”

“I wager you will not like what we do to you,” hissed Kamaris.

Then, Desslok broke in. “I understand that you Mechanoids have innovative weapons?”

“We do,” said Kamaris.

“Then, prepare your weapons…and fire the gun. I am looking forward to seeing what your lovely weapons will do, so…fire the gun,” mocked Desslok.

“Go to Hell,” said Kamaris.

He raised his hand and lowered it.

A massive barrage began a moment later.

The target…every ship of the new Human Coalition.

The Alliance was now being tested.

And the ink on the Treaty was barely even dry yet…

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TO BE CONTINUED…