Ch 39: His Kingship

Business in Aerennis finished, everyone heads to Bastion to meet the King. They receive a warm welcome, but it's clear getting pardoned won't be easy. Like always though, Alexander has a plan.

            The Audentia. Friday June 15, 520NA. Aboard the bridge of the Audentia, Schmitt called out from the pilot’s seat to Scott, “Alright Admiral! Plot us a course to Bastion, capital of the Kingdom of Gaian! Time for us to have a little chat with his kingship!” Standing by the window to the right of the bridge entryway, Alexander commented, “You might want to avoid using your pet name for His Majesty in our meeting Schmitt. It’s going to be a proper audience, and the proper etiquette must be observed.” Sitting in one of the passenger seats looking over at a vacant seat surrounded by controls over to the right of the pilot’s seat, Catherine said, “I’ve been meaning to ask Schmitt. I’m not familiar with the model of airship you seem to have acquired from the Guild here, but don’t most command ships fly with three operators? What is the empty seat there for?” Beaming back at her, Schmitt said, “Ah, have an interest in airships Catherine?” Shaking her head, Catherine said, “Not specifically, no. It just seems odd no one is needed to operate that position.” Answering her question, Scott called out from the copilot’s seat, “I think it’s because that’s the Assault Coordinator’s seat.” With a hearty laugh of approval, Schmitt said, “Exactimundo Admiral! Ya see Catherine, long as we ain’t in combat, all we need is pilotin’ and navigatin’. So the assault coordinator’s seat is left empty.” Her curiosity satisfied, Catherine said, “I see.” Sitting with Grey in the back row of passenger seats, Amy said, “You really like airships don’t you Scott?” Laughing in embarassment, Scott said, “It’s that obvious huh? Yeah, if I hadn’t made such a high position in the Special Forces, I think I would have been fine with being an airship technician for the Guild or something like that.” With a smirk, Grey said, “Yeah, I remember you and those model airships you were always making. It’s really a shame you couldn’t have been a regular pilot because of the law.” Grey donned a sour look as he muttered, “Damn the Guild…” Shifting in her seat, Amy said, “Speaking of that law Alexander, you said you had a plan to clear Grey of his terrorist charge, but how are we going to get around being unregistered energists?” Quickly Mythra chimed in, “Or for that matter how will you get out of organizing a jailbreak and stealing a prototype airship?” With a shrug and a grin, Alexander simply said, “Beats me.” With a frazzled expression, Amy muttered, “Oh I see…” Interjecting, Catherine said, “I’ve spoken with my father about this as well. He simply said not to worry about it.”

            Entering the airspace over Bastion, the view of the great metropolis from the air was breathtaking. Surrounded by a great wall, the city was divided into two layers. At the edges of the city was the Lower Shelf, the ground level area around the elevated area called the Upper Shelf, and at the center of the city was the Great Spire Palace, the residence of the kingdom’s royal family as well as a facility for many royal institutions. The buildings of the city were grand, many with great spires of their own rising into the air, some providing docking places for airships or airbuses. Hover car highways could be seen as well, stretching over the city and linking the Lower Shelf and the Upper Shelf. Having risen from her seat to look out the windows at the city, Amy said in wonder, “Wow, It’s kind of like a combination of Abnoct and Celestis. There are so many tall structures and machines.” Nodding, Catherine said, “The capital was reconstructed after the war 30 years ago. We owe many of the technologies we use to the Adali Empire, but the designs of most of the buildings are far different from those you’ll see in the Empire. It’s my observation that lately the Empire has made less effort to put the technologies it manufactures into anything that eases the lives of the people, and more into the development of weaponry and such. By adapting their technologies for more common use, we’ve turned our capital into a bustling hub for the many residents of the kingdom, as well as a must see for tourists.” Suddenly a smaller airship rose up to fly beside them, and another quickly appeared on the other side of the ship. Red warning lights sounded on the bridge as the airships leveled their weapons turrets at them.

            Amy yelped and stepped away from the windows as Grey got out of his seat and said, “What’s going on?!” With a frazzled look, Schmitt said, “Hold on, hold on, they’re the city’s air defense! I’m opening communications with em. Soon as I figure out… Ahah!” Pressing one of the controls, Schmitt brought up a holo-screen upon the front windows of the bridge. The face of an airship pilot appeared on it, and the pilot said, “Unidentified craft, you are not cleared for landing! Identify yourself!” Walking to stand in front of the screen, Catherine said, “This is Lieutenant Colonel Catherine Walker, Fifth Division Guild Special Forces. I have brought my friends for an audience with my father, His Majesty Daniel Alucard Walker. I request clearance to dock at one of the Great Spire Palace’s landing spines.” After a moment, the pilot replied, “Yes Your Highness, our deepest apologies. Please follow us to your designated landing area.” As the transmission cut out, the door to the bridge slid open, and with a worried look Richter stepped onto the bridge and said, “What’s going on?! I heard the combat alert!” In a calming voice, Alexander said, “Relax, relax. We had a little misunderstanding with the city’s air defense. That aside, didn’t I tell you to rest? That poison affected you much more seriously than a half human like Mythra.” With a frustrated sigh, Richter replied, “Your constant concern is getting a bit old Alexander. I told you I’m really feeling much better. If we’re going to meet the King, I really think I should go along. Besides, I’ve always wanted to visit the Great Spire Palace. It’s one of the greatest achievements of our age, and the royal library itself is said to be a treasure trove of knowledge!” Staring Richter down sternly, Alexander said, “That’s hardly a decent excuse…” Walking over to Richter, Mythra looked him up and down for a moment. Then she faced Alexander, and with a sagely air about her, she said, “He looks fine to me Alexander. You were a good student, but you’ve always taken your medicinal practices too seriously, which I might add is quite a feat.” Alexander still looked unconvinced. Piloting the ship after the city’s air defense, Schmitt said, “I’m sure he’s sick to death of lyin’ in bed, you can’t keep him laid up forever!” In agreement, Scott said, “Yeah. Besides Alexander, wouldn’t the testimony of another former Special Forces member be helpful in convincing the King and everything?” Crossing his arms in front of him, Alexander muttered, “Fine. If I see the slightest sign that you’re pushing yourself though, I’ll be dragging you back to the ship personally.” As everyone chuckled, Richter smiled reluctantly and said, “Fair enough.”

            Disembarking from the Audentia, as they walked down the ship’s gangplank and onto a large landing pad that protruded from the Great Spire Palace, referred to as a landing spine, they found a grand welcome awaiting them. Lined up in a row on the right and left of where they stepped off were rows of soldiers clad in the red and gold ceremonial armor of the Royal Guard. The rows stretched all the way to the doorway leading into the palace, creating a clear path for them to walk. As everyone made their way through them, the soldiers raised their swords in salute. Looking quite embarrassed, Catherine muttered, “This is why I don’t come home to visit very often…” Laughing, Schmitt said, “I see his kingship still knows how to throw a welcome party!” With a cheerful face, Amy said, “Speaking of parties, we ought to have one after everything’s settled! Everyone’s better and pretty soon we won’t be wanted by the Special Forces anymore!” Laughing himself, Grey said, “Getting a bit ahead of yourself, but still a party doesn’t sound like a bad idea.” Wearing her hat once more, Mythra came up beside Grey, giggling as she said, “Then I call the first dance with you Grey…” Amy eyed her angrily, but Mythra simply returned her gaze with a smug look. Turning to Alexander, who was watching him like a hawk, Richter quietly said, “Grey’s popularity seems as strong as ever. It makes one wonder whether to envy him or pity him.” Alexander couldn’t help but grin as he quietly responded, “It certainly is quite the love triangle.”

As they neared the entrance to the palace, a man stepped out of the doorway. His hair blonde and his eyes blue, he wore elegant robes of red and gold and upon his head was a golden crown studded with red gems. A wide smile upon his face, he called out, “Catherine! How are you my girl? It’s been months since I’d last seen you! Have you any idea how worried I was when I heard about what happened in Silens?” With a slight sigh, Catherine mustered a smile and said, “You’re always worrying about me father…” The King laughed and replied, “Well I am your father after all, it’s my job I’m afraid. Well, aside from managing the nation.” Spying the others, the King said, “Ah, but with so many new friends, it seems there really was nothing to worry about. I’ve heard how you came to my daughter’s rescue in Silens.” Approaching Grey, he extended his hand saying, “It’s an honor Grey. I will do all I can to repay you.” Stunned, as he shook the King’s hand, Grey stammered, “N-no it’s my honor, Your Majesty…” Clapping him on the shoulder, the King chuckled and said, “Please, be at ease! I may be the king, but first and foremost I am a friend of the people.” Turning to look at Schmitt, the King grinned and said, “I must say, it’s a surprise to meet again like this isn’t it Schmitt? Breaking prisoners out of your own prison, I couldn’t stop laughing when I heard about it! You’ve always been a good judge of character.” Laughing heartily, Schmitt said, “Well, I had my reasons your kingship. Sorry, I guess it might’ve been something of a hassle for ya, bein’ the one who recommended me an’ all.” The King waved his words away and said, “No trouble at all. There are those on the Council who don’t like me regardless. This system created out of haste thirty years ago will collapse if change isn’t made, yet because of the influence of fools like Magni and his pet snake Conwell, the Council stands divided as to what to do about things.” Unnoticed by the others, Richter looked confused at the King’s mention of Conwell. Adjusting his shades, Alexander shot looks at the royal guard and said, “My apologies Your Majesty, but might we discuss such things in private?” Smiling, the King simply replied, “You need not worry about them, but I suppose we could find somewhere more comfortable for this. Please, follow me.”

            Reaching the audience hall after descending many floors in the landing spine elevator and making their way through the first floor halls, which were lined with marble pillars, decorated with portraits and ceremonial suits of armor, as well as with lavish carpets and wallpaper colored with the royal colors of red and gold, the King ordered his attendants and advisors out and took his place upon the throne. Calling out to them, his voice carrying through the hall, the King said, “Feel free to take a seat everyone.” He pressed a button on the throne’s armrest, and from the floor in front of the throne rose a curved table and many circular stools all made from marble, the stools with small cushions attached to their seats. As they all took a seat upon the marble stools, the King said, “I’m sure the private meeting room we use for long discussions with visiting officials would be much more comfortable. However, it’s apparently in use at the moment.” Alexander simply replied, “No, this is fine Your Majesty.” Alexander sat in the stool at the middle of the table. To his left sat Richter, Catherine, Grey and Amy, and to his right sat Scott, Mythra, and Schmitt. Smiling, the King said, “Now then! I hear quite the tall tales from my daughter about you all. Would anyone mind filling me in on the whole story?” Nodding, Alexander said, “I won’t deny it’s a rather strange tale, but I suppose you seem like one to have an open mind.” After explaining everything to the King, Alexander crossed his hands on the table and said, “That’s the gist of it.” The King showed no signs of doubting Alexander as he said, “My, my, an interesting tale. The reports Catherine sent were rather brief, but they did mention you claimed the Dark God himself was behind our enemies, Altera Veritas. I was unaware of the truth behind your identities as Angelorum Lux however. It’s quite fascinating.” Amy blinked in surprise and said, “He believed us just like that?” With a look of embarrassment, Catherine said, “Father is rather… strange.” Glancing at her, Grey thought to himself, “You believed us pretty easily yourself…” Laughing, the King beamed at Catherine as he replied, “Oh Catherine, you flatter me.” Then with a more serious look the King said, “I can tell you’re not lying. After all you have Schmitt’s approval, not to mention my dear daughter’s. As I’m sure you are well aware though, that alone will not be enough to sway The Council. What plan do you have to prove your claims?”

            From his pocket, Alexander withdrew the strange metallic object that The Professor’s anomaly had delivered to them back at Mythra’s house. Seeing it, Scott exclaimed, “The Professor’s message!” With a grin, Alexander said, “Quite the bungle on his part, wasn’t it? I doubt he ran it by Alastor when he decided to send us his little ultimatum.” Showing a look of confusion, Catherine said, “I’m afraid I’m slightly lost, I can’t really see from here. What’s that strange device?” Quickly, Scott explained, “Awhile back Schmitt was kidnapped by one of Altera Veritas’ Revenants, the one who was a scientist for the Guild, Professor Vincent Marcellus. This thing is a message he sent to us.” Getting the picture now, Catherine said, “Ah yes, the battle in Lamis. So this is some recording that incriminates him?” Nodding, Alexander said, “Yes, he not only mentions himself as a member of Altera Veritas, but our role as the new Angelorum Lux as well.” Scratching his chin in thought, the King stared at the message with interest as he said, “Very interesting, this will certainly open some eyes to Altera Veritas’ infiltration of the Guild. At the moment, Professor Vincent Marcellus’ death is simply classified as ‘under investigation.’ Yet, will this really be enough to clear up our young friend?” Alexander stowed the Professor’s message away in a different pocket. Reaching into his first pocket again, Alexander said, “Well, I’m afraid not, but revealing the Professor’s involvement should at least help make it clear we’re not with Altera Veritas. The message is not the only thing I have here though.”

Withdrawing a small book, Alexander added, “Ah, here it is.” Seeing the book, Mythra quickly exclaimed, “HEY! That’s mine you thousand year old burglar!” Laughing triumphantly, Alexander said, “Yes, forgive me, but I secretly procured this from your belongings.” Grinding her teeth, Mythra said, “D****t, you better not have read it!” Looking back and forth between the two with a nervous look, Grey said, “Uhh… Just what is it?” Mythra shot Alexander a look clearly indicating for him to keep his mouth shut. Ignoring Mythra’s deadly gaze, Alexander had a mischievous grin on his face as he replied, “It’s something called a memory diary. Want to read it Grey?” Grey quickly shied away from him. Feeling somewhat sympathetic for Mythra, Amy thought, “He stole her diary? What is he, her little brother?” Mythra slammed a fist on the table with a look of rage and embarassment. Rising from the table with fire in her eyes, Mythra formed her wand and shouted at Alexander, “PREPARE TO DIE!” Scott and Grey quickly jumped from their seats to restrain her as Amy shouted, “Mythra, calm down, I’m sure he had a good reason to… well…” Struggling against the two as they fought to keep hold of her arms, Mythra shouted, “Let me go! This is a thousand years overdue! I WILL HAVE MY REVENGE!” With a calm look, Alexander said, “Will you quiet down already? Or do I have to read a certain little entry here from three days ago?” Mythra quickly deflated. Ceasing to struggle, with a sad eyed look she muttered, “Twisted, evil little blackmailing son of a…” As they took their seats again, Grey thought to himself, “I never knew Alexander could be such an evil mastermind…”

            Laughing, the King said, “Well, quite the rambunctious group here. I won’t question your methods Alexander, but exactly how will this diary serve our purpose?” Alexander looked at Amy and said, “Amy will be helping us with that part.” As everyone looked at her, Amy just laughed nervously and waved. Holding the memory diary up before him, Alexander continued, “Usually, with a memory diary you view your own memories within your mind. However with a few things I’m sure you, Your Highness, should be able to procure for us if you would be so kind, I can alter it to visibly portray mental images.” With a look of interest, the King replied, “Mental images you say? Well if you’re certain you can do it, I’m glad to provide you whatever you need.” With a nod, Alexander said, “Excellent, thank you. Now generally you want to record things in the memory diary while your memories are still fresh, as over time things can be forgotten or distorted. However, with Amy’s abilities we can draw out the memories of Grey’s past with crystal clarity and display them at his hearing.” Looking impressed, Schmitt said, “Well, though I feel a bit bad for Mythra here, I gotta say you sure do always have somethin up your sleeve there Alexander! Just what you’d expect from the brains of the operation!” With a nervous look, Amy turned her gaze away and said, “That’s a good plan, but I’m not so confident I can be that precise with my mind reading…” Resting her head upon her arms on top of the table, Mythra muttered, “Great plan Alexander. All you’ve accomplished is to humiliate me…” Unfazed, Alexander said, “It will be awhile before the hearing still, more than enough time for us to familiarize Amy with what she has to do. Though it would be simpler to have Grey use the diary to record his memories himself, as I said the memory degradation might cause a problem. Of course, we’ll have to have this examined by the Council before we use it, lest we be accused of fabricating our entire presentation.” Mythra buried her head in her arms and sobbed at this. Staring at Amy, Alexander said, “This is the best plan we have. Work hard Amy.”

Reviews

[Ryan Henderson]

I lie this chapter! Alexander truly is the man with the plan! Like Schmitt said, he always has something up his sleeve. I also love the little exchange between Mythra and Alexander when Mythra found out Alexander stole her memory diary. The dialogue flowed nicely and was very believable! Now, if only I could read Mythra's diary...

Anyway! I didn't see any spelling errors, great job on that. I'm really beginning to like your characters, they are each cool in their own way and each of them has they're quirks. For example, Mythra is short tempered and cocky, Grey is 'Mr. Oblivious' Scott is a bit timid (less so now than at the beginning of the book) All of your characters are awesome and believable in their roles in the group, their dialogue and their personalities. Great work!

I am really looking forward to Grey's hearing. It certainly promises to be interesting. I also have a fleeting prediction that Mythra will either try to get her diary back, or get revenge on alexander somehow. Can't wait to see Mythra get revenge on Alexander! After all, he does sort of deserve it XD Great work, keep it up!

~Ryan

[KeithKVH]

Thanks for the review man! He really does always have a plan, the hearing is honestly one of my favorite parts of volume 1.