* * * *
Considering the Admiral’s celebrity, the dinner at the Governor’s Palace was intimate. The guest list included several prominent business leaders, the mayor of Siirneen, some governmental bureaucrats, and the Military Commander of the Siirneen Command Post.
Tyler found no memory of the Commander in the Admiral’s past, but he knew the Siirneen command was predominantly ceremonial rather than strategic. Based on this, he assumed the Commander was directly connected to the Imperial Palace. The Governor confirmed it when he introduced the man as a distant cousin.
Tyler was impressed with the food and entertainment. A small orchestra played after dinner and put on a unique and strangely hypnotic performance of an ancient opera rumored to be twenty-five hundred years old. Tyler enjoyed the more primitive sound that added to the emotion and drama. Unfortunately, the language was an ancient dialect, and even the Admiral’s vast knowledge of history didn’t provide a translation. Nonetheless, Tyler thought it a wonderful performance. Toosia agreed.
Throughout dinner, Tyler had trouble focusing on the conversations around him. More than once, he had to request the speaker ask the question again, or repeat some fact he had missed. He knew it made him appear rude, but thankfully, Toosia came to his rescue by talking about the day-to-day stress of the war, especially after his injuries months before. Everyone nodded with understanding, and Tyler squeezed Toosia’s hand in appreciation.
After the final act of the opera, the party enjoyed a marvelous dessert served with cordials. Tyler was impressed the asteroid colony was capable of putting on such a grand affair, especially during war. He found it remarkable how much Poolto culture was alive and well on the frontier.
Five hours ticked away, and the dinner party began to wind down. He and Toosia made the rounds saying goodbye before heading back towards their quarters. They were stopped at the entrance to the large dining room by the Governor.
“Admiral Osloo and Toosia,” he said warmly, “I am so thankful I had the opportunity to show you my hospitality and gratitude for choosing Siirneen for your conference.”
He held out his hands to shake theirs.
“Please, Governor,” Toosia responded graciously, “it is we who are to thank you for such a wonderful reception.”
“Yes, Governor,” Tyler added, “we are truly in your debt for such an elegant evening.”
“Yes, well, I am pleased you both enjoyed it. Umm, Admiral, I was hoping that I might have a private word with you before you retire for the evening?” Tyler saw discomfort in the Governor’s request. “That is if it is all right with you, my Lady?”
My lady? Tyler had to admit, that man was a politician. He watched Toosia for a reaction, but she merely smiled and nodded her head towards the Governor.
“Of course, Governor, he is at your disposal.” She replied.
“Oh, good, I’ll try not keep him long.” the Governor signaled to an attendant across the room. “One of my staff will escort you back to your quarters, my Lady.”
The Governor whispered instructions to the attendant who bowed slightly before offering his arm to Toosia. She took it gracefully, and with a smile and nod, she was escorted back to their quarters.
“Excuse me, Admiral, I must see the last of my guests out before we can go somewhere … more private.”
Tyler nodded and took a seat in one of the overstuffed chairs surrounding the interior of the dining room. As Tyler waited, he admired the intricate details of the room’s elegant design. It was a rectangular room with two large entrances at either end. One led to the front entrance of the Palace while the other led to the interior corridors and quarters. Tyler sat near the interior entrance staring across at the few remaining guests speaking to the Governor.
In the middle of the room was the enormous table seating as many as a hundred people comfortably. It had been downsized for the more intimate affair which Tyler estimated was attended by forty to fifty people.
Another set of double doors blended into the wall on the left-hand side for staff access to the kitchen. Currently, the doors were closed while the staff waited for everyone to leave.
On the right-hand side of the room, the floor and walls were cleared to make room for the small orchestra. The musician’s chairs were arranged in a semi-circular pattern facing the main table while in the front, a small podium was centered for the conductor. Others were placed on either side of the musicians for the singers.
Tyler could only remember one other formal orchestra he’d seen. Linda had taken him to it early in their relationship using her family’s season tickets to one of the fall debuts. Although Tyler hadn’t liked it at the time, he saw a great deal of similarities between tonight’s performance and the one they’d seen in Los Angeles. The one on Earth had not been an opera, but the orchestral arrangement was very similar—hypnotic and ethereal.
Tyler thought about how much of this world was similar to Earth. Different creators and different species, and yet, there seemed little more variety. Love, pain, greed, and war were common themes on both worlds, and he wondered if everything in the Universe evolved along similar lines.
He watched the Governor try to bid goodnight to the last of the guests. A party of four seemed bent on discussing some matters before leaving. Tyler noted the Governor, always gracious, listened patiently to each in turn. He smiled unperturbed, although Tyler knew he wanted them gone.
Tyler grinned thinking of all the media events he’d been to since becoming the Admiral. He looked back on it all and was amazed he’d pulled it off … so far.
Adanni broke into his reverie. The hard part is yet to come, my friend.
I know, Tyler replied, please don’t interrupt too much.
Fine, but I will let you know when something doesn’t sound right!
Okay. Tyler said a bit angry with the intrusion.
Tyler stared across the room as the Governor finally got the guests out the door. He walked back towards Tyler, signaling the staff as he went. He was giving directions for the cleanup.
“Sorry for the delay,” the Governor apologized, “sometimes my guests are a bit ambitious when they see an opportunity to have my ear, one-on-one.”
“I understand, Governor.” Tyler assured him.
“Good, well, then let’s retire to somewhere more intimate and have that talk.”
The Governor led him out through the entrance to the interior part of the Palace and down several corridors before stopping in front of what looked like a lift. The Governor did something Tyler couldn’t see, and the door opened with a whoosh.
“Just a short lift there.” The Governor assured him.
As the doors closed, he felt the elevator descend. He noted even the interior of the elevator was ornately trimmed. In the back, a large painting Tyler guessed was quite old dominated the cramped interior.
It finally came to a stop at what Tyler estimated was at least five stories beneath the Palace. Clearly, this place was larger than it appeared. Tyler wondered how much sat beneath the upper building. Their quarters were on the main floor, but the Governor’s quarters probably were not.
The man extended his arm to usher Tyler out.
“Welcome to where I really work, Admiral.”
Tyler noticed the corridor appeared no different than the ones on the main floor. It stretched into the distance before ending at a left turn. Tyler saw no breaks in the walls to indicate doorways.
The Governor continued his commentary as they walked down the long corridor. “We are currently seven floors beneath the main Palace in what I refer to as my office. However, it is really a bunker of sorts. You see, this area was built after the start of the war when raids on the colonies were quite common. This bunker was carved underneath the existing Palace through what is nearly solid iron. I’ve been told this area can withstand everything but a direct atomic blast. Thankfully, I have only used it once as a bunker, and that turned out to be a false alarm.”
They turned the corner
at the end of the corridor and walked through another long stretch. Thankfully, this one had a door at the end of it.
“Very impressive, Governor,” Tyler admitted, “do you work here everyday?”
“Yes, assuming I’m not out on official business. I had most of my business equipment and communications put here so I could continue my duties, even while under attack.”
Tyler couldn’t imagine working underground everyday. He supposed it was no different than the Supreme Military Command complex, but somehow it seemed more cramped. Ironically, the feeling was probably due to the lack of people. The lighting was nearly identical.
They reached the door, entering an enormous circular room. On the opposite side of the room, Tyler saw another doorway leading into what must of have been the rest of the facility. He guessed the room measured a hundred feet across with walls rising thirty feet overhead. They met at a domed roof rising higher by at least another twenty. Tyler doubted anyone felt claustrophobic in this room.
On their left, a large table dominated, curved to match the contour of the wall behind it. Tyler assumed this was the Governor’s desk. It was large enough to sleep four or five people on its top.
Moving inwards from the outer walls, the floor sank several feet to an area filled with couches, chairs, desks, and small tables. It was rather luxurious and meant for entertaining or meeting people.
Adorning the right-hand wall, if you could call it that, a series of ten viewers ranging in various sizes filled the space from floor to ceiling. It reminded Tyler of his room back at Tooland, but the scale was noticeably different.
The light in the room was soft and emanated from various places on the wall and ceiling. Tyler stared at the overhead dome and series of wedge shaped murals covering most of the interior space. They were intricately painted, and each pie shaped wedge depicted an entirely different scene. As far as Tyler could tell, they were of the asteroid colony in various stages of development.
“Wonderful, isn’t it?” The Governor asked, looking up with Tyler.
“Yes,” Tyler agreed, “is it a depiction of Siirneen’s history?”
“No, although one of the panels is.” The Governor replied. “It is a depiction of each of the regional asteroid colonies when they were founded.”
Tyler counted seventeen pictures, but the Governor pointed out two of them on the right side of the dome. “Those two were captured many years ago and are under Krildon control.”
Tyler didn’t recognize them, but then the Admiral had cared little for the particulars of asteroids and focused more on regions within the asteroid belt.
The Governor continued. “You’ll notice each panel ends in the center at the bright round orb representing our sun.” Tyler looked at the sun. The golden orb appeared to be made out of gold. “The panels are laid out in their respective positions within the asteroid belt just as you would see it from a distant perspective.”
Tyler was impressed and had no doubt that was the idea.
The Governor finally finished. “It was created for me by an artist I had known on Poolto. He is no longer alive, but his work will live on for eternity. It took him over five months to complete it … by himself.”
“Truly remarkable.” Tyler agreed.
The Governor ushered Tyler to one of the chairs in the center of the room. Tyler chose a particularly comfortable chair and sat down. Might as well be comfortable. The Governor moved across the room to a bar.
“Would you care for a nightcap, Admiral?” The Governor offered. “I have an exquisite brandy actually made from fruit from your Tooland Estate.”
Although Tyler had plenty of wine with dinner, the soothing effects of the alcohol made him want more. “Please.” He accepted.
The Governor poured two large glasses of brandy and brought them back to the center of the room. The Governor handed one to Tyler and took the other with him as he took a seat on an overstuffed couch. Tyler lifted his glass to the Governor before taking a large drink. He felt the warming of the drink in his mouth, and plucked out tremendous flavors as he swished it around. Tooland came through once again.
“Well, Governor, what did you want to see me about?” Tyler asked.
“Well, it is not just me who wishes to speak with you,” the Governor began before someone interrupted him from the door. It was Nayllen Hooss.
“Ah, Governor, you and the Admiral are here and ready to begin. Wonderful!” Nayllen sounded genuinely happy, and Tyler didn’t think it suited the man.
The Governor rose from his seat and walked back to the bar. “The usual, Nayllen?” He asked peremptorily.
Nayllen nodded as he sat down on Tyler’s left-hand side.
“Admiral, so glad you made it.” He said it matter-of-fact as if Tyler had a choice. “Such a wonderful reason you employed to get here. I doubt anyone was suspicious, except maybe the Marshall.” He concluded.
“Of course.” Tyler agreed, remaining calm. At this point, he just wanted the meeting over.
Patience, my friend, patience. Adanni cautioned.
Considering how much Tyler drank, he was ready to be patient but felt emboldened. He took another sip to steel himself.
The Governor delivered a glass to a table next to Nayllen before resuming his seat on the couch.
“Well, now,” Nayllen began, “I must start by saying you surprised us all with your resignation, Admiral. It was not the action we were hoping for, but considering the corner you’d been backed into, it was a brilliant move.”
Action you hoped for? Tyler thought. It made him nervous.
“And what action did you hope for, Nayllen?” He asked boldly.
“Well, there were many possibilities, of course, but let’s just say yours was … well, unexpected.”
Tyler was unnerved by his lack of answers. Anger simmered below the surface.
Easy, killer, easy. Adanni cautioned quietly. Remember, he is a very dangerous man.
Tyler agreed and let his anger simmer.
“Anyway,” Nayllen started again, “that is not exactly why we are here. We are here to discuss our need for your assistance in ending this war.”
Tyler saw the Governor nod his head in agreement while remaining quiet. Tyler wondered how the man fit into this scheme.
“Fine,” Tyler said coldly, “I am here, so what is it you want from me?”
Nayllen took a moment to survey Tyler before responding. “Why nothing less than the Supreme Military Command Codes for disabling all fleet ships.”
Tyler was amazed at how casual Nayllen had said it, as though it were no small matter, like borrowing money.
Tyler tried to remain cool. “I am surprised with your connections you don’t already have them.”
“I, too, am surprised,” Nayllen admitted, “but they are the one thing I have never been able to get my hands on. Not even the Emperor has access to them.”
Tyler knew from the Admiral’s memories only the Supreme Military Commander possessed the Codes. They were originally established to prevent two possible things from happening. First, they were designed to prevent a mutiny from within the military or a take over by the Imperial Palace. Second, they were designed to prevent the use of their own ships in the event they were captured by the enemy. From the Admiral’s recollections, the Codes had never been used before.
“Didn’t you hear?” Tyler said sarcastically. “I am no longer the Supreme Military Commander.”
“Indeed, that is why your actions were not what we were hoping for. However, all is not lost. It will be some time before the official turn over takes place, so we still have time.” Nayllen looked directly at Tyler, a smug look on his face.
“Assuming I ignore the fact that this is the most traitorous action I could take, why would I turn them over to you, and how will that help you win the war?” Tyler was curious where this was headed.
“Fine questions,” Nayllen agreed, “but I am not sure you really have a choice.”
Tyler once again felt h
is anger build. “So it is threats then, is it?” He barely contained his emotions as he said it.
“Threats, my good Admiral?” Nayllen responded. “I won’t need threats after you meet with my associates.”
Tyler was confused, he had assumed the associates had been the Governor, but apparently others were involved in this conspiracy.
“I see, and when will I meet these associates?” He asked racking his brain for some logical choice of who it could be. A Council member? Could be, rumors indicated many were tiring of the war effort. He thought about Toosia’s father and wondered if he were involved.
“In due time, Admiral, they haven’t arrived just yet.”
Tyler wasn’t reassured. “Okay, then while we wait you can explain to me how the Codes will help you win the war?”
“Win the war?” Nayllen said in mock surprise. “Whoever said anything about winning the war? I merely said stop it.”
Nayllen’s obfuscation wore thin on Tyler, and he barely held his anger in check.
You really shouldn’t drink in these situations, Tyler, you have far too much repressed anger within you.
Tyler ignored the alien’s commentary and stared at Nayllen, waiting for the man to reveal more. At this point, Tyler didn’t like how the proceedings were going. Nayllen was obtuse while painting a picture that sounded as though it would include the end of the Admiral.
As if reading his mind, Nayllen spoke up. “You are correct to be concerned about your situation, Admiral—this may turn out badly for you regardless of whether you join us.”
Tyler couldn’t believe he was hearing this admission. “Then, tell me why I should do it!” He demanded.
“Well, I am afraid the alternative could be far worse.”
Again with the threats. “What do you need the Command Codes for?” Tyler demanded.
“To stop the fleet, of course.”
Tyler was amazed at how calm Nayllen remained when he said these things. How cold and calculating was he? Tyler once again doubted the Admiral was named after this person. At least he hoped he hadn’t.
“Of course, and that will stop the war because Krildon will be able to just walk in and declare victory.” Tyler knew his voice held an edge of anger, but he didn’t care at this point. Clearly, these men were crazy as well as dangerous.
Nayllen’s emotions didn’t falter. “Admiral, I am surprised at you. You see everything from such a narrow, military point of view. Very limiting.”
Tyler snorted. “Yeah, I guess it is an occupational hazard.”
Nayllen sat back sipping his drink. “Admiral, I realize this is difficult for you, but I must assure you that, in the end, the war will be stopped and all of Poolto will benefit—even your family.”
“Please, leave my family out of this.” Tyler said with an implied threat.
Nayllen smiled. “Yes, I realize your baby is on the way and this changes your attitude towards things immensely.”
Tyler couldn’t believe he’d heard it. This man was full of surprises. “You know about Toosia’s pregnancy?” He asked incredulous.
Apparently the Governor was surprised. “A baby, Admiral? How wonderful!” The Governor said it much too jovially for the circumstances.
Tyler ignored him. “How do you know she is pregnant?”
“Please, Admiral,” Nayllen said as though brushing it aside, “after everything I have shown you, I am surprised by your shock.”
Tyler had to admit, the man had revealed he had access to just about everything.
Except the Command Codes. Adanni said abruptly.
Perhaps that is a bargaining chip? Tyler thought. He needed anything he could use to help him out of the situation. But the danger of them being used was too hard to ignore.
Nayllen went on as though nothing were amiss. “Surely, Admiral, you want your child to enter a world free from war?”
Tyler agreed that would be nice, but he wasn’t certain it was something these men could deliver.
“I still don’t see why stopping the fleet will help end the war?” Tyler pressed.
“No,” Nayllen agreed, “I don’t suppose you do.”
Without saying more, Nayllen gave the Governor a questioning glance as he looked at a clock on the table next to the Governor. The Governor followed Nayllen’s gaze and shrugged. Apparently, whoever they were waiting for was late.
Tyler pressed further. “Then, why don’t you enlighten me?”
“I am reserving that for our guests.” Nayllen said as though this were sufficient reason.
“Fine, where are they?” Tyler was losing his patience and his anger threatened to erupt.
“Fine question.” Nayllen agreed. “Governor, why don’t you see what the status is?”
The Governor nodded in acknowledgement and headed for his desk. He was nearly hidden behind the enormous structure, but Tyler could see his face in the dim light of the viewer he hunched over. Tyler remained quiet. Both men took turns sipping their drinks while they waited, and the silence was awkward.
Who were they waiting for? Tyler thought. He imagined someone from the Imperial Palace. Surely they had inside conspirators within the Palace?
I don’t think so, Adanni said, but I cannot offer an alternative.
Tyler sipped more of his drink and noticed the bottom of his glass. He almost got up to refill it, but decided he was already more inebriated than was prudent for the situation. He put his head back in the seat and stared at the murals overhead. His clouded mind drifted randomly. He thought about Toosia and his unborn child and felt a deep chill.
The wait was like an eternity, but the Governor finally rejoined them. “Sorry, a slight delay due to security. They’ve passed through okay and should be here shortly.”
Security? Why would that delay them? Tyler was confused. Any thoughts, Adanni? He asked inwardly.
No. Adanni admitted.
They continued to sit in silence. Tyler was fuming and didn’t feel socializing was appropriate. Nayllen looked as though he were prepared to wait for an eternity, the man’s calm demeanor never changing. Damn him!
Finally, the Governor broke the silence. “Who would like me to freshen their drinks?” He asked.
Nayllen handed his glass to the Governor, as did Tyler. What the hell, it couldn’t get any worse, and it felt damn good getting drunk. It gave him a renewed bravado despite the dangers. The Governor returned with fresh glasses and Tyler drank a heavy portion in his first sip. Both Nayllen and the Governor didn’t appear concerned. At least Tyler had experience dealing with people while drunk.
Adanni warned him. I don’t think the people you dealt with on Earth were quite the same as these.
Tyler was tired of the alien’s comments and was ready to push him back into his subconscious. He held back when he realized how valuable Adanni might be when the associates arrived.
As if on cue, the opposite door opened and two large guards entered, sweeping the room before taking up positions on either side of the door. Tyler was stunned. They were Krildon and the weapons they held looked more than serious. That explains security.
As they waited, another Krildon entered the room, but looked less like a guard and more like a bureaucrat. He waved at Nayllen as he walked down into the center of the room. As he approached, Tyler was taken by how large they were compared to the average person on Poolto.
He stood at least seven feet tall, towering over Nayllen. His face was fierce, and the scaly skin and protruding canines made him a daunting figure. The voice, however, did not match this awesome appearance. It was smooth, gentle, and a very high timber for something so large. This surprised Tyler despite the Admiral’s memories of Krildon.
The man spoke gently. “Hello, Nayllen, I am sorry we are late. We were nearly detected at one of your checkpoints. Fortunately, your military Codes worked.” He held out his large hand shaking Nayllen’s. He turned towards Tyler and smiled. To Tyler, his contorted façade was more like a snarl.
“Admi
ral, what a privilege to meet you in person.” He offered his hand. “It is not everyday a person is able to meet their greatest nemesis in the flesh.”
Tyler stood and accepted the hand gracefully. He didn’t like the way he had said flesh. The hand was surprisingly soft despite its scaly appearance.
“And who do I have the privilege of meeting?” Tyler asked.
“Ah,” Nayllen said quickly, “I am sorry, Admiral, let me introduce you to the Commander of the Third Fleet of the Krildon Republic Navy, Commandant Askgar Kulg.”
Tyler nodded as he recalled plenty of references to the man within the Admiral’s memories. The Commandant was a remarkable tactician and nearly defeated the Admiral more than once in battle.
Tyler tried not to appear intimidated as he stared up at the imposing figure. “Indeed, I, too, am privileged to meet such a worthy adversary.”
Tyler didn’t like where this was headed. The man was a military commander like the Admiral, and although his appearance was fierce, his demeanor did not match his position. However, just meeting with him would be considered high treason by any standard.
They sat down and Tyler noticed Commandant Kulg barely fit into his chair. It was strange to see him squished into such a tiny seat. Tyler thought it demeaned the man, enemy or not.
The Governor turned towards Kulg. “A drink, Commandant?”
“No, thank you, I am fine.” He replied in a lilting tone. “My guest should be here shortly.”
Guest? Tyler thought. This isn’t who we were waiting for?
How could it get weirder than this? Tyler remained silent while Nayllen and the Commandant talked about the trip to Siirneen.
Tyler was amazed someone from Krildon could penetrate this far into Poolto space undetected. However, considering Nayllen’s influence, it wasn’t hard to imagine. Still, one look or scan should have been enough to see through any disguises they might have employed. Tyler was once again impressed with the power Nayllen controlled.
He listened to their conversation. “Yes,” Kulg was saying, “your devices worked perfectly. However, without the Diplomatic Codes, they would have boarded us for certain. I know I would have.” He concluded.
Tyler was about to ask about the devices when another Krildon entered the room. He looked more like an assistant than anyone they would be waiting for.
“Commandant, our guest is here.” The person bowed towards them and stood to one side.
“Ah, wonderful!” exclaimed Nayllen, and Tyler had to admit he saw a real look of happiness on Nayllen’s face.
Everyone rose from their seats waiting. Tyler watched a lone figure emerge from the darkness of the corridor, walking slowly with a cane. It was the first time he had seen anyone with a cane on this world.
As the person entered the light, Tyler’s jaw hung in an expression of disbelief. The Admiral’s Father, Nattur Osloo, looked at each person with a smile.
Nayllen walked over to Nattur, his hand outstretched in welcome. Tyler’s head buzzed in confusion.
“But … but,” Tyler stammered without control, “y-you are dead!”
Nattur eyed Tyler. “Well, my boy, I feel great nonetheless.”
This was too much. The combination of drink, the news from Toosia, the implied threats from Nayllen, and his certain collusion in a conspiracy against the Empire threatened to overcome him. His head swam woozily as he sat down staring blankly at the floor.
Adanni’s voice penetrated the fog. Warning, Tyler, this is an unexpected turn of events, and I sense real danger here.
Talk about an understatement!
Fear gripped him. How could he deal with the Admiral’s father? What if Nattur recognized Tyler was not his son?
It has been a long time since the Admiral saw his father. I don’t think that will be a problem. Adanni reassured him.
The problem was, Tyler didn’t feel reassured. Through his fog, he watched as they took seats each staring at him in anticipation. Only the Admiral’s father wore a look of concern.
“Nayllen,” Nattur prompted, “are you feeling all right?”
Was he kidding? A part of the Admiral’s memories reeled with the sight of his supposedly dead father. These thoughts impacted Tyler as well. He had thought he was prepared for anything, even handling the Commandant reasonably well.
But this? This was something catching him off-guard, and he did not know how to deal with it. A multitude of thoughts jammed his mind, and he felt deadlocked in indecision. Only a loud voice cut through his reverie, bringing him back to the present.
Answer him, Tyler, we’ll deal with it! It was Adanni, fearful of the awkward silence created by Tyler’s confusion.
Tyler quickly recovered, responding to Nattur’s question. “I’m….I am sorry, I have no words to respond with, father.”
That much was true. He watched as Nattur smiled slightly and turned a questioning glance to each of the others.
“Indeed, Nayllen, I imagine you don’t!” His smile grew broad and looked genuine to Tyler. “Don’t worry, son, it is me, despite what the Emperor wanted you to think. He knew I was alive, although I am certain he would never have told you.”
Tyler was confused, the Emperor knew the Admiral’s father was still alive?
“How could he,” Tyler stammered, “I mean, how could the Emperor have known?”
Nayllen interjected. “I told him.” Once again a flat statement and one that reinforced the man’s power and influence.
“Then, why didn’t you tell me?” Tyler said too loudly.
“Easy, son,” Nattur interrupted, “I instructed him not to.”
The drink and the circumstance were more than Tyler could bear. He felt like everything happened in slow motion. Why would the Admiral’s father want the Admiral to think he was dead? It didn’t make sense. As if sensing his confusion, Nattur answered Tyler’s question.
“I thought it better to have you think I was dead to ensure your fighting was not compromised by my being captive.”
“Then, you are a prisoner?” Tyler asked confused.
Nattur smiled and looked at the Commandant who snarled back. “No, I was at first, but I have been a guest of the Krildon government for many years now. To them, I am still an ambassador to Poolto. I am safe to move about Krildon all I want, although that may be less secure these days. Especially after your last offensive.”
Tyler listened, but it didn’t sink in. So he was still on good terms with the government on Krildon? That would explain why he was here, but not necessarily why he was conspiring with Nayllen and the Governor. Unless, they were all traitors in league with Krildon to overthrow the Emperor. It was the only thing that made sense at that point.
“Am I truly named after this man?” Tyler asked nodding towards Nayllen. Nattur followed his gaze but looked confused by the change in topic.
“Yes,” He said gently, “didn’t Nayllen tell you we had worked together on Krildon?”
Tyler didn’t want to believe him. It meant the Admiral’s father had been a spy for the Emperor. A spy, denounced and left a prisoner on the enemy’s world. Tyler didn’t think Nattur looked like he would hold a grudge, but then again, the Admiral’s memories were naive about his own father.
“Yes,” Tyler responded coldly, “he told me. I just didn’t believe him.”
Nattur’s face changed with the cold response Tyler had provided. Clearly, he expected a much happier reunion. I am not your son, and I don’t trust you. Tyler thought.
A wise decision. Adanni agreed.
Once again, Tyler’s anger began to surface. This time he welcomed it as it wore off the effects of the alcohol. He stared back defiantly as Nattur appraised him in a very calculated way.
“Hmmm…” Nattur began, obviously re-evaluating his son, or seeing him for the first time. “I see my visit is not necessarily a welcome one.”
He said it as a fact rather than a question. Tyler concurred with his deduction, but didn’t say as much.
??
?Well, father, I haven’t seen you since the beginning of the war, you let me and mother believe you were dead, you’ve been branded a traitor by the Emperor, and now you show up involved in a conspiracy with men who have all but threatened me and my family. Oh, and you are in the company of our enemy.” Tyler let his anger loose as he vented. “Tell me, father, why is it I should welcome you?”
No one reacted to the outburst, but Tyler was glad he’d said it. He wasn’t going to play the victim anymore. If they wanted him dead, then get it over with. At least they wouldn’t get the Command Codes! He sat back finishing his drink, the buzz wearing off fast with his anger. To hell with you all. He thought.
They looked at each other in turn, nobody saying anything. Perhaps he’d finally shut them up.
Nattur sat back in his chair, staring across at Tyler with a neutral look on his face. Tyler returned the gaze unwavering.
“I understand I am to be a grandfather?” Nattur asked, obviously not wanting to deal with Tyler’s outburst. “And here I thought Toosia was unable?”
“Well, I guess life sometimes throws you a curve ball!” Tyler responded without realizing it was an Earth comment.
Each wore a look of puzzlement, quickly replaced with a neutral expression.
“Yes,” Nattur replied, “I suppose it does. Well, for what it is worth, congratulations. I am very glad you are back together and will be a family.”
Tyler thought he sounded sincere, but considering all of Nayllen’s threats, he didn’t think family life was in his future.
“Yes,” Tyler responded, “I suppose we will be a family, although not if Nayllen has his way. He has already assured me things will likely work out badly for me, regardless of whether I help you. So please, excuse me if I don’t get all teary eyed at your comments.”
At that, Nattur looked to Nayllen in anger. Who cared, it was obvious the Admiral, and Tyler, were in too deep for anything good to come from it.
Nattur turned to Tyler. “I think Nayllen has over-stepped his bounds. I am sure we can find a way for you to come out well.”
Tyler watched Nayllen, but the man didn’t respond to the rebuke. He simply stared at Tyler, his calm demeanor, measuring and scheming. Perhaps this conspiracy was not as tightly bound as they would have Tyler believe. Watch out, Nattur, my namesake is far from trustworthy. His plans might not match yours.
Tyler couldn’t put it past Nayllen to conspire against his own conspirators. Tyler could imagine him turning them in to the Emperor when things didn’t go as planned. Then, he would maintain his own power while raising his status within the Imperial Palace.
Tyler spewed sarcasm. “Perhaps I can, after all, being a traitor is apparently not as deadly as one might believe.” Tyler sank the barb.
He noticed the Commandant was antsy from the exchange. Being in the middle of his enemy’s territory was a gamble for him. If it went poorly, he could easily be caught and tried as a spy. Tyler imagined what the Imperial Palace would have in store for the ‘Commander of the Third Fleet of the Krildon Republic Navy’. Tyler doubted he would be treated as well as they had treated the Admiral’s father.
Tyler turned to the Commandant. “So tell me, Commandant, do you share my father’s belief I will come through this well?”
The questioned bothered the Commandant, but his emotions were hard to read through his reptilian face. He responded to Tyler in a high voice, but the force and command still came through. “I can assure you, Admiral, this war is coming to an end. How and when will determine your fate.”
Nattur shot another angry glance, this time at the Commandant. Tyler didn’t miss the exchange. Who is really in charge here, Nattur? Tyler began to think it wasn’t the Admiral’s father.
“I see,” Tyler said, “then you must share Nayllen’s assessment.” Tyler turned back to the Admiral’s father. “So tell me, father, why are you so optimistic about my future?”
Nattur regained his demeanor and smiled. “Because you are my son, and I want only good things for you.”
Fat chance, Tyler thought. What was his motivation? He was branded a traitor, and all of Poolto knew it and despised him. How could he hope to gain from this conspiracy? It was easy to imagine how the Commandant and his world would gain, they appeared to be the only ones who would come out good.
“Right.” Tyler said emotionless.
“Okay, Nayllen,” Nattur said quickly, “I realize this is hard for you and I can see you do not trust me. I can understand. The war has obviously hardened you over the years, and I can see why you believe nothing but bad things will come from this.” He paused, obviously trying to make due with the change in attitude. “I accept that. But my colleagues are right, this war will end and you can either be an active part of it or a victim of it. The choice is yours.”
Tyler watched him closely, and felt he was finally being truthful.
“Perhaps I cannot guarantee you will survive this, but I can guarantee your family will.”
This got Tyler’s attention. So, they were going to use his family against him after all. Nayllen had already threatened, but clearly Nattur was willing to put it on the table as well.
Great, Tyler thought, happiness is once again in my grasp, but soon to be taken away. He sank into his chair, defeat overwhelming him. He knew he could be brave and fearless if he were involved, but he could do nothing that would threaten Toosia and their unborn child.
He looked at Nattur staring at him placidly. “Fine, father, you win. What is it you want from me and how will it end the war?”
He saw his acquiescence had eased the tension. But why fight it anymore? They held everything and he held nothing except the Command Codes. It wasn’t a great bargaining chip, especially if they didn’t need them to accomplish their goals. Nayllen had revealed as much.
Nattur sat back, his features softening. “Son, don’t sound so fatalistic, it will be an end to a long and senseless war. Is that not worth something? A world where your child can travel the solar system, free from fear? Free from killing? Free from anger?”
Tyler knew he was right, but he didn’t believe it would all be paradise.
“Don’t you mean a world without a father?” Tyler knew he sounded petty, but he didn’t care. He grinned as the comment stung.
“It doesn’t have to be that way, son.”
“Not according to your colleagues.” Tyler replied.
“Son, listen,” Nattur leaned forward, “what we need from you is dangerous, it is true there are risks, but you may yet prevail and come through this alive and a hero.”
Tyler doubted he’d be a hero. “Didn’t you know father? I already am a hero!”
“I know, son, but a war hero, wouldn’t you rather be a hero of the peace?”
Tyler had to admit, the badge as a war hero had never sat well with him. He had never been a violent or aggressive man, which is probably why he had so many customers back on Earth. No one ever felt threatened by him, unlike so many in the trade. If he survived and became a hero of the peace, then he and Toosia could retire to their vineyard, living out their lives as a family. If I survive! You are awfully quiet, Adanni, have you no deep insight?
No, like you, I have no idea what any of their motivations are. But I still don’t trust them. There is something here that I …
Adanni trailed off before finishing. Damn, Tyler thought, just when I need him. What is it you sense or see, Adanni? Please share.
Silence.
Tyler’s anger churned when Adanni finally responded.
I sense something, but I believe I may be mistaken.
Nice, it was like dealing with Nayllen.
Thanks for your input, Tyler thought sarcastically. The alien didn’t respond.
“Yes, father,” he turned his attention back to Nattur, “I would love to be the hero of peace, I am just uncertain you can provide that peace.”
Nattur sat back, his calm face taking in his co-conspirators. Tyler couldn’t tell what the man was think
ing but wanted the whole thing over.
“All right, Nayllen, fair enough.” Nattur signaled the Governor for a drink, and the man quickly went to the bar. At least Tyler could assume the Governor was not in charge.
“Anyone else?” He called from the bar.
No one responded, so he returned quickly with the drink.
Nattur took a long drink before continuing. “As we all know, this war was started because of petty, territorial disputes that escalated into the political nightmare we currently live in. Philosophically, we can all agree on that, even the Emperor. However, over time, the effects of the killing and warfare have developed a grudge or hatred for the other side. On Poolto, our own history shows this to be a common thread over and over again. Even Krildon has historical references that mirror this situation.”
Nattur grabbed his drink. Tyler had to admit, the man was telling the truth. The same things happened on Earth during political disputes. A minor disagreement can escalate into war, which escalates into hatred, and finally into genocide. He had to concede, both worlds were stuck in a vicious cycle that might destroy each.
Tyler interrupted. “Yes, father, this is all academic, but what do you propose to do to break us out of the cycle?”
Nattur set his drink down. “By being the ones who step forward and say it must stop. By being the ones who have the power to make it stop.”
Tyler thought through his words. He started to see their plan forming in his mind. Take away the power of Poolto by disabling the fleet with the Command Codes. Then, offer the end to the war. How else could Poolto, or the Emperor, respond? They would have to agree.
Tyler was not convinced. “And that will be it? Krildon will back down? Love, peace and harmony will prevail?” Tyler knew he was being overly sarcastic, but it didn’t jive with what he saw as the real outcome.
“Yes,” Nattur agreed, “but not all at once, over time.”
“And you, Commandant,” Tyler asked, “this is what you desire, an end to all hostilities? Forgive and forget?”
The Commandant was about to respond when Nattur interjected. “Son, Krildon is a democracy, not an authoritarian regime like Poolto. Their people desire peace more than they desire the end of us. Peace can prevail, we just have to open the way for it. The Emperor cannot be the one to offer peace, his ego will not let him. He must be forced to accept it, and the only way is by taking away his power. You and the military are his power.”
No denying that, the Emperor himself didn’t control the military, although his influence on it had recently increased. No wonder the Imperial Palace was backing Teesen, they were increasing their control of the military. Tyler knew when push came to shove, Teesen would never go against the Emperor, and would likely even give him the Command Codes.
Tyler was beginning to see why he was in a no-win situation. Once the military was under the command of the Emperor, the man could do anything he wanted, all in the guise of winning the war. It was no wonder his propaganda machine worked hard to foment hatred against Krildon, he wanted nothing less than victory, no matter the cost. The Admiral, and Tyler, had both been caught up in the same propaganda.
“Okay, what do you propose?” Tyler asked, suddenly more receptive.
“We plan on bringing a treaty mission to Poolto to propose the end of the war. The Commandant here will bring nothing less than his own flag ship with a majority of the Krildon representatives on board to negotiate. The President himself will also be present.”
Tyler watched as the Commandant nodded in agreement.
“And I suppose you need me to disable the fleet to ensure safe passage?” Tyler asked, although he knew that was it.
“Of course,” Nattur agreed, “but also to ensure the bargaining is heavily weighted on our side.”
“Of course.” Tyler agreed thinking that would be a perfect opportunity for an attack. “And why must I give the Command Codes to you? Can’t I just disable them myself when the time comes?”
Nattur looked surprised by the question. “Well, I suppose that could be the case, but we need you with the Emperor during this time. Suppose something happens to you, especially if the Emperor senses mutiny. His guards could easily overtake you before the fleet is disabled.”
True enough, but Tyler still didn’t trust them. “Okay, I see your point. What will keep Krildon from attacking us when we are defenseless?”
“Ah, well you have the planetary defense system don’t you?” Nattur said lightly. “That should keep Poolto safe, even though I assure you they have no intentions of attacking.”
“I see. Well, if it is on your word alone …” Tyler let sarcasm drip heavily.
“Son, I realize I may not deserve your trust, but this plan was conceived many years ago. Our only problem was how to get through to Poolto to deliver our message of peace. Fortunately, you finally gave us the opportunity we needed.”
“Really?” Tyler said smartly. “So why do the Commandant and Nayllen believe you can still end the war without my help?”
Nattur glanced at both Nayllen and the Commandant before turning back to Tyler. “Well,” he began, “if you don’t help us, there is another way to end the war.” Nattur paused, letting this sink in. He obviously hadn’t wanted to divulge the information, but a nod from the commandant seemed to give him the go ahead. “Krildon has developed a weapon that could destroy the Poolto fleet. In fact, if Vice Admiral Teesen’s plan is put into place, it will be the last stand of a dying Navy.”
Tyler watched the sadness in Nattur’s face as he said this. The end of the Poolto Navy? A new weapon, how? Then, it came in a flash, they had found a way to weaponize scrilt!
“You’ve found a way to use scrilt in weapons manufacturing and you think it will give you an edge in battle.” Tyler said it as a fact.
Nattur raised his eyebrows, a look of pride on his face. “Very good, Nayllen,” he commended, “but it is much more than that.”
“Really, how much more?” Tyler asked.
Nattur paused again, looking to his co-conspirator.
“Tell me, son, your brilliant offensive plan, why didn’t it succeed?” Nattur asked.
Tyler didn’t know whether to respond, but assumed Nayllen knew all of it anyway. “Well, I am not exactly certain why, but I suspect we overestimated how much of their fleet was actually around the home-world. I guess our intelligence was flawed.” Tyler knew this was the official reason, but always had his own suspicions. He waited to see how Nattur reacted. He didn’t.
“I see.” Nattur said. “What if I told you your intelligence was correct?”
Tyler was thrown by the question. “Then, I suppose I do not know why we lost.”
He thought about this admission. Their intelligence was correct? But he remembered the conference and the fleet numbers they’d come up against. Their intelligence had not been correct.
Nattur watched Tyler’s confusion before continuing. “Yes, son, your intelligence was correct, and yes, you are correct that much of the Krildon fleet was around the home world.”
“Then, how do those two things mesh?” Tyler asked.
“Easily,” Nattur stated calmly, “you were betrayed.”
Tyler shot a glance at Nayllen. “Was it him?” He accused.
Nayllen remained passive. “Hardly, Admiral,” he replied indignantly, “I would not be so cold as to kill all those men.”
“Then, who?” Tyler asked, anger taking over. The part of him that was the Admiral tried to wrest control and Tyler let his emotions out.
Nattur looked calmly at Tyler. “The Emperor did.”
Tyler took in the statement, not wanting to believe it. How could the Emperor be the traitor? What would he get out of the destruction of half his fleet? It didn’t make sense?
“The Emperor,” Tyler said incredulous, “why would he betray his own military?”
“To get rid of you and take over the military.” Nayllen said.
The man said it naturally as though it were obv
ious to a child. It wasn’t obvious to Tyler. He knew the Emperor wanted him out of the way, but something that big seemed over the top even for the Emperor. Regent Sneerd on the other hand.
“Assuming this were true, why cripple your own military to take it over?”
“Your death and the destruction of half the fleet would ensure whoever replaced you would be incensed enough to convince the military and the Supreme Council that Imperial control was necessary to deal the final blow to their enemies. They would have used your death to rally support for the Emperor and his ultimate goal, to win the war and conquer Krildon. He and Vice Admiral Teesen have been planning this for years.”
Tyler had to admit, it rang of truth and squared with the events of the battle. Still, it was hard to believe they would spend life so casually to achieve such a goal. Then again, there were plenty of examples where this was done.
Nattur spoke up. “The problem was you didn’t die as they planned, and that set them back tremendously. In fact, your own actions in the battle were better than they had imagined, so the defeat was not so one-sided as they assumed. Over all, you did more to thwart their plans than you realize. After all, you came back a hero, and even they could not denounce you lest they admit the defeat.”
That was true. The great lie rolled out to the people was because of the embarrassment a defeat would have caused. He remembered how it had been turned into a sneak attack by Krildon, once again a propaganda move by the Imperial Palace. It was all starting to make sense.
“I begin to see the possibility of truth in what you say, but what does the scrilt have to do with this?” Tyler asked, wanting more information on what he obviously still didn’t understand.
“Well,” Commandant Kulg replied, “I can answer that. Your brilliant plan and devilish battle tactics almost won the battle despite the fact we knew ahead of time, and despite our having overwhelming odds.”
Tyler ignored the compliment.
The Commandant continued. “In fact, we only succeeded in thwarting your attack because of the scrilt.” He paused before going on. “We have not only used scrilt to enhance our weapons, but we have also developed a new polymer that when applied to our ships, yields them nearly invulnerable to your current weapons.”
“You mean they can even withstand missile attacks?” Tyler asked.
The Commandant appeared unnerved by the question. “Well, no, they cannot withstand missile attacks anymore than they could before, but they can take a hit from any energy weapon and discharge the force harmlessly.”
Tyler pressed, fascinated by what was being revealed. “Then, our fleet could counter your fleet simply by using older technology?”
Again, Tyler noted nervousness.
“Yes, it is possible,” he started, and then added quickly, “but as you know, missile penetration through our defensive grids is only about fifteen percent effective, and you must be at close range. That would put your fleet at a disadvantage from our new energy weapons.”
“I see.” Tyler said. “And what new power do these weapons have when modified with the scrilt?”
This time, the Commandant didn’t want to answer. Instead, he looked at his fellow conspirators as though seeking advice. Nayllen jumped in to save him. “It’s all right, Askgar, he might as well know.”
The Commandant didn’t look assured, but made up his mind. “Fine, we have modified our energy weapons with scrilt and have realized a thousand fold increase in output.”
Tyler was stunned. A thousand fold increase—that was unbelievable. If it were true, he could understand why they had confidence they could wipe out the Poolto fleet.
“But our scientists assured us this substance was benign. Surely, you didn’t get that much yield from it?”
Nayllen leaned forward. “Remember who was in charge of those scientists, Admiral. Krildon has been developing this technology for thirty years.”
“Then, you knew about it?” Tyler accused.
Nayllen didn’t flinch. “Yes, I knew about it, but I didn’t know they had come so far. My partnership with Krildon didn’t give me access to all their secrets.”
Nattur spoke up. “That was where I came in. I convinced the Krildon legislature to hold off deploying the technology until we could use it as a bargaining chip in our negotiations.”
“Of course,” Tyler said, “then you didn’t use it when defending yourself in our offensive?”
The Commandant answered plainly. “We did not have it fully deployed at that time, but we had several squadrons equipped with earlier prototypes. They made a significant difference, despite not having the full power at their command.”
Tyler didn’t like the smug look on the Commandant’s face, he almost believed the man was ready to launch a full scale attack on Poolto.
“Why don’t they just attack us? They obviously have the upper hand?” Tyler gambled on a direct approach. The Commandant looked nervous, but Nattur was the one who answered.
“Don’t think there aren’t many who feel that way. Fortunately for Poolto, most of them are not in power. Cooler heads have prevailed and I have convinced them a peaceful end to the conflict will be better than an all out victory.”
Tyler had to concede Nattur seemed to believe what he was saying. He wasn’t so sure the Commandant or Nayllen agreed.
Tyler wanted this to end, he’d had his fill of news for one day and it was clear their was nothing he could do to change the situation. “Fine, if I give you the Codes, then Krildon will come to Poolto with an offering of peace under the threat of annihilation, or if I don’t, you will carry through with your threat to annihilate us. Does that about sum it up?”
His cold summary didn’t sit well with everyone, especially the Governor. Tyler could imagine why he might feel uncomfortable—the colonies would be the target of the first wave of attacks.
Nattur looked at Tyler with concern. Too late for that, pops. Tyler thought.
“Nayllen,” Nattur began, “son, it is the only way we can end this futile war. Is that not worth it?”
Tyler had no choice, but he wasn’t going down just yet. He would find a way to come out ahead. One way or another, he was going to have his family.
“Yes.” Tyler said with little emotion.