* * *
Hundreds of billions of people watched both in person and on viewscreens as the Emperor arose and addressed his subjects. His expression was calm but intense; he knew that those watching him had opinions of the current situation ranging from a desire to surrender to a mindless obsession to obtain victory regardless of the cost to anyone. If he was to lead them through this conflict, he would have to unite them all, and he would have to do it soon.
“My friends,” he began, “we face opposition on all sides. Even as our enemy threatens to overwhelm us, the power we have sought to bring to bear in our defense seems to have been thrown beyond our grasp by the ruthless betrayal of one of our most trusted comrades. Some of you may fear what will come of this situation, but as I look out on this great Empire this day there is no fear in my heart.
“I know from years of history and personal experience that the Anacron Empire has the courage to stand against any danger, the wisdom to face any dilemma, and the power to destroy any enemy. I have full confidence that all of you will stand in might and honor in the preservation of this Empire and of its ideals which we all hold so dear. I know our leaders, and there is no doubt in my mind that they possess the knowledge, skills, and experience to lead us to victory. I, myself, commit to no less.
“Despite our history of resounding victory after resounding victory and our present stature as the pinnacle of the galaxy in every respect, there may be some among you who yet doubt our chances against an enemy so vast and so well organized. It is true that we no longer have the ability to unite the ancient Plasma force, that the weapon we sought to thereby create is no longer a possibility. Nevertheless, three Plasma Masters still remain, and in my personal studies of the Plasma’s power I have discovered a way in which we can stand against our enemies indefinitely, if necessary. By making full use of the powers still at our disposal, we plan to complete our preparations within the month, and then we shall let the universe know the consequences of challenging the greatest empire in the universe.
“My friends, the illusion of defeat is but temporary. The time is at hand when darkness shall fall over all who oppose us, when the venom of our unconquerable might shall burn through every foe until we stand alone in the galaxy as rulers of all. Like a great viper we shall strike at every last individual, army, and planet until all who oppose us have perished. My friends, doubt not that we will destroy them. We will destroy them all.”
From the ovation he received when he finished, one would have thought the billions of Imperial subjects had been given a choice as to who would lead them.