Pax Imperia

By Mike Smith

Commander Jonathan Radec has finally obtained everything he ever wanted in life. However, in a cruel twist of fate, just as he reaches out for his most heartfelt desire, it is torn from his grasp forever.

“For only he who has experienced ultimate happiness, can completely understand the deepest depths of absolute despair.”

Jon has always trusted those closest to him implicitly. It has long been his greatest strength, but one that his enemies have come to realise is also his ultimate weakness. For it is always those closest to you whose betrayal cuts the deepest.

In a horrific, pre-emptive strike at the very heart of the Imperium, the Senate is completely wiped out. In the aftermath of the attack, surrounded by the cries of the dead and dying, destiny once again reaches out its long arm, forcing Jon down a path he has long resisted. For, ever since the day he first set eyes upon Sofia, Jon has been destined to stand above all others.

As the last Emperor of the Imperium.

Jon has already fought through the very depths of hell itself and out the other side to save the ones he loves. Now, to save his family, he will gladly lay siege to the heavens themselves, for they tremble at his approach. As Jon not only commands the living, but also the dead, and they all want revenge against those who have taken everything from them.

Even if the rest of the Imperium must burn first.

The terrifying finale of the Redemption Trilogy. A Science Fiction adventure/romance, which tries to answer the question: “Can you ever find redemption for the mistakes of your past?”

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mike Smith
• Release date: Jan 19, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310313783

Mike Smith

Targeted's author Mike Smith is Vice President of Revenue Platforms and Operations at Hearst Magazines Digital Media and General Manager of Core Audience at Hearst Corporation. The former President of Forbes.com and former Chief Digital Officer of Forbes Media, Smith is an authority on how using real-time bidding systems with finesse can dramatically promote online advertising and branding. Before joining Forbes, Smith was Vice President and Chief Information Officer at TheStreet.com. He also worked at HBO in a variety of positions, including director of information technology. Smith is a graduate of the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Book preview

Pax Imperia

Book Three of The Redemption Trilogy

By Mike Smith

Copyright 2014 Mike Smith

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Cover image copyright © 2014 AiTuDou

In dedication to all those who selflessly place themselves in harm, day after day, to keep the rest of us safe. Those nameless heroes, who pull the rest of us back from the brink of the abyss, then do it again the next day and the next.

"The true measure of a hero is when a man lays down his life with the knowledge that those he saves... will never know."

- Anon.

Special thanks to my editor, Anya, and my proofreader Mirella, for all your help and support. I could never have finished this without you.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Epilogue

Author’s Note

Prologue

Present Day

Planet Eden Prime, Eden System

The star at the heart of the Eden System shone brightly. Its light spread throughout the System, banishing the darkness. For the star was the source of all life in the System. Without it everything would wither and die in the dark and cold.

Alone.

Just like all living creatures, the star breathed. Its hot corona continually expanded and contracted, creating the solar wind, a stream of charged particles blown off the surface of the star and extending all the way to the Heliopause, almost fifteen trillion kilometres distant. The star was massive, with a diameter of about one and a half million kilometres, and had a surface temperature in excess of five thousand degrees Celsius. It was by far the largest object in the Eden System, comprising ninety-nine per cent of the system’s mass.

The planet Eden Prime by comparison was barely a pinprick in size. The light from the star took almost ten minutes to travel the distance to the planet. However, in comparison to the star’s swirling maelstrom of hot plasma and magnetic fields, the surface of Eden Prime was green and tranquil. With the distant star beginning to climb above the horizon, only just starting its trek towards the zenith of the day, Eden Prime’s sky was azure-blue and clear.

A perfect day for a wedding.

However, this was no ordinary wedding, as the pastor would be the first to testify. After all, it was the first wedding he had attended where he had been politely but firmly frisked for weapons prior to being permitted entry. He had enquired, with some trepidation, of the Marine who was currently thoroughly searching him, if they were expecting any trouble.

Not at all, pastor. We are just taking precautions. We already have a company of marines guarding the perimeter and the fleet is enforcing a no-fly zone over the Senate. The Marine pointed into the sky, where the pastor could observe the contrails left by fighters circling high overhead. And, the young man continued on in an unconcerned voice, The 12th Fleet are in orbit, ready to intercept any approaching ships. We’ve got everything covered. Have a nice day.

Following the wide, meandering path, the pastor observed the bright sunlight streaming through the overhead branches. A mild breeze, heavy with the scent of summer flowers and newly cut grass, stirred the leaves in the trees making them waft backwards and forwards. He saw trees, lakes and, in the hazy distance, a marsh with glimpses of a silvery, fast-flowing river. He heard couples laughing, as he passed by and, overhead, a songbird trilled from a nearby tree.

Staring around, wide-eyed in astonishment, at the landscape, he wondered why he did not spend more time in the Senate Park. He could not remember the last time he felt as close to the Great Maker as he did with all this life and beauty surrounding him.

The pastor continued on towards the front of the congregation and, upon arriving, he took a moment to stare out at the unusual spectacle facing him. For instead of the riot of colours and styles usually present at such a wedding, the congregation was a sea of black and white, interspersed with the occasional man or woman not wearing a uniform. One example was the elderly couple seated in the front row, behind the groom. The groom’s parents, the pastor assumed. Standing a little off to one side and behind the bride was an imposing man with grey hair and dark-green eyes, also dressed in an immaculate white uniform. He was tapping his foot irritably, obviously impatient for proceedings to get underway. There was no doubt as to the identity of this man. After all, his face must be the most instantly recognisable in the Confederation, and as the Pastor had no desire to get on the wrong side of Marcus Aurelius, the bride’s father, he quickly commenced proceedings.

My friends, we are gathered here today to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of committed marital love, and to add our best wishes to the words which shall unite Commander Jonathan Radec and Sofia Aurelius—

"Princess Sofia Aurelius, an indignant voice interrupted the pastor. I didn’t spend thirty years being the Imperial Emperor for my daughter to married off like some common—"

Father. Hush, the bride interrupted serenely, with lips upturned in a slight smile. The only response was a huff from over her shoulder.

Princess Sofia Aurelius. The pastor concluded without missing a beat. Turning to the groom, the pastor enquired, "Commander Jonathan Radec, do you take Princess Sofia Aurelius for your lawful wedded wife, to live in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love, honour, comfort and cherish her from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto her for as long as you both shall live?"

I do.

Turning this time to the bride, the pastor repeated the question. Princess Sofia Aurelius, do you take Commander Jonathan Radec for your lawful wedded husband, to live in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love, honour, comfort and cherish him from this day forward, forsaking all others, keeping only unto him for as long as you both shall live?

With all my heart.

Purposefully ignoring the break in tradition, the pastor turned back to the Commander and nodded for him to repeat the marriage vows.

I, Commander Jonathan Radec take thee Sofia Aurelius, he started, not missing for an instant the twitch of amusement on his wife-to-be’s lips and the even louder sigh coming from behind her. To be my wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, honour and cherish, ’til death do us part.

The pastor then turned to the Princess, motioning for her to proceed.

I, Sofia Aurelius take thee Jonathan Radec to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, honour, and… Sofia paused for a second, before concluding, ’til death do us part.

Jon had to try hard to suppress his laughter; it would be a cold day in hell before Sofia ever agreed to obey anyone.

The pastor had to supress a sigh of his own, as it seemed obvious this couple were not beyond more than a little improvisation. Hoping to hurry proceedings along, he turned back to the groom, enquiring, You have the ring?

Ring? The Commander seemed surprised by the question. No, I don’t have the ring.

Your best man, then, perhaps? The pastor turned hopefully to the blond man, splendid in his white navy uniform, with the rank of Captain clearly visible on his lapel, standing beside the Commander.

All eyes turned on him expectantly.

What is everybody looking at me for? I don’t have the ring. Nobody said anything to me about a ring, Paul exclaimed loudly, and not a little defensively.

Jon, Sofia uttered, not even glancing at him, the serene expression not slipping from her face for an instant. You have one minute to find a ring before I order somebody to run you through with their sword. If you have not already noticed, there are many here for me to choose from.

Pardon me for just one minute, pastor? Jon apologised. The pastor rolled his eyes before nodding in agreement. Jon turned around to face Sofia, taking a step forward, deliberately encroaching into her personal space. Noticing the suspicious look on Sofia’s face, he leaned forward to whisper into her ear. Close your eyes for one minute, love.

If you are going to embarrass me in front of my father?

I wouldn’t dream of it, Jon breathed into her ear, noticing how she trembled slightly as his warm breath caressed her cheek. As her eyes fluttered closed, Jon took advantage of the opportunity to kiss her lovingly on the cheek, ignoring the snort of indignation coming from the direction of the pastor.

Gently lifting her chin with a deft flick of his finger, Jon observed the delicate chain encircling her neck and the plain gold wedding ring threaded through it. Jon cupped his palm and let the ring lie within his hand, observing the way it sparkled in the early morning sunlight. Lifting his gaze, he stared at Sofia, who had opened her eyes and was staring back at him with such a look of yearning, tears had pooled in the corners of her eyes.

Jon just took a moment to stare unabashedly at her, to admire how the simple, sleeveless, ivory silk bridal gown accentuated her stunning figure. How her unblemished, pearly-white skin was offset by a single curl of her red hair, which had somehow managed to escape from her pinned–up hair style. Most of all, Jon just thanked whichever deity was listening the fateful day, several weeks earlier, when that terrifying shot rang through the Senate and, for a single, heart-stopping moment, Jon thought he had lost everything.

*****

Jon was already moving before the echo of the shot had even faded, but he already knew he was too late. Both Sofia and Marcus were already on the floor, with Marcus shielding his daughter with his own body. Jon did not even hesitate, throwing himself over the couple, tensing himself for another shot and the impact of a bullet tearing through his flesh. He was surprised by the overwhelming silence in the room.

After a moment, it seemed that time resumed and Jon could hear shouts being called out by the marines as they spread out looking for the shooter. A few minutes later the all clear sounded and, with dread in his heart, Jon rose to his feet and gently rolled Marcus over. Checking him for any entrance or exit wounds, he was relieved to find the man uninjured. Eyes flickering open, Marcus focused on Jon with a surprised expression. Like Jon, he had feared the worst.

Sofia? Jon uttered in terror, quickly pushing her father aside. Running his hands all across her body, looking for any signs of injury, Jon was horrified as he held up his hands, stained red with her blood.

Jon? She inquired weakly, eyes flickering open to stare into his frightened gaze. Are you okay? My father?

We’re both fine, he hurriedly reassured her. You're also going to be fine. Now just stay with me and try to stay awake, Jon added desperately, finally finding the entry wound on the side of her abdomen and keeping pressure on the wound. Even then he could feel the blood oozing out in rivulets between his fingers. Looking back up at her pale, white face, he noticed, with growing fear, her eyes had slipped closed again. He desperately tried to find a pulse, was only slightly relieved when he had managed to do so, even though it was thready and weak. Medic! He screamed hoarsely.

However, before a medic could arrive, Marcus gently lifted her into his arms and turned to face Jon. Take her, he insisted. Go with her and watch over her.

But, my Lord, what about you?

The two men’s eyes met, a look of silent understanding passing between them. While they might have come from vastly different worlds, they both shared something in common; the woman in her father’s arms was the most important person in both their lives.

I will stay here and put an end to this madness, before somebody else gets hurt, Marcus insisted, gently passing Sofia to Jon. Now go, he ordered. Then he watched for a moment longer as the two of them disappeared into a tight circle of marines and the group hurried towards the exit. Look after my little girl, he whispered softly, before turning back to the stunned crowd.

As he approached the speaking podium, it was the first time the Emperor had addressed the Senate in over five years. The first time since the Imperium, the great Empire that had lasted over five generations, had been disbanded.

I am Marcus Aurelius, Imperial Emperor, and my family has ruled over this Empire for five generations! The words thundered out across the great hall, echoing off the walls, the last few words lingering in the air where they mixed with cries of indignation from some of the Senators from the rim worlds. However, unperturbed, he continued on regardless. If it weren’t for my family, none of you would be sitting here today. It was only through our intervention we were all saved. For where would it have ended? How many hundreds of millions more would have died? Where would our great civilisation now be? Nowhere! Your ancestors would have been ashes on some distant planet or living in caves huddled around an open fire. My family saved us all and how do you repay us?

Marcus held up his bloodied hands for all to clearly see.

"In blood. My daughter was chased across the galaxy like a thief, and for what reason? Simply because she is my own flesh and blood. And, as for me, I was tortured and imprisoned for half a decade. Why? Because I was unlucky enough to be born under this name. Now you all threaten war once again, to bring back the destruction my ancestors fought so hard to bring to an end the first time. But this time you do so in my name, in my family’s name.

Five hundred years ago you were all like children. Ungrateful, squabbling and constantly warring with each other. My family finally took away your sticks, waiting for you to grow up. Well, in five hundred years you have not changed. Still the same petty jealousies, the inability to look up from your own selfish wants and desires to see the grand scheme of things. To understand that we rule for all, not just a select few."

The Emperor’s voice trailed off sadly, the silence in the hall replaced by pounding on desks and cries of outrage from many of the Senators. Therefore his next words were almost missed by many, as they were spoken so softly.

Yet maybe I was wrong. As parents we all want what is best for our children. However, in the process of doing so, sometimes we forget that it is their life too. That they must be free to make their own choices, and learn from their mistakes. Occasionally they even surprise us, by making the right decision when we as their elders were blind to see what was best for them, the Emperor commented approvingly. Remembering his own futile search to find a husband for his daughter, someone to love and care for her, when she had already found him.

Often we would prefer our children stay as children forever. Letting go is never easy, but it is a part of growing up. With a thoughtful expression, the Emperor turned to face the Senate again. Motioning towards two Senators sitting next to each other a few rows back, he continued. While Emperor, I permanently stationed an Imperial Task Force between the adjoining systems of Procyon and Sirius, in the sure and certain knowledge that otherwise they would go to war with each other. Yet here I stand, five years later, and observe the representatives from these two great systems sitting next to each other. I see no war and hear of no death and destruction. Without the Imperial Fleet to keep them separate, they have had to learn to live and work with each other. They have been forced to grow up.

Casting his gaze around the many astonished faces in the great hall, Marcus Aurelius, the last in that great line of Imperial Emperors, recognised his own time had now come, and gone. Therefore, I stand before you today, not to demand fealty from you again. The Emperor’s final words were almost lost in the sudden buzz of conversation around the room, but he continued on heedlessly. But to bless this Confederation, to congratulate my daughter on its founding and to gracefully step aside. By this time the room was ablaze with excitement, many Senators already on their feet clapping. Eventually the Emperor stepped away from the speaking podium, after delivering his final words to the crowd. For my daughter has taught me the most important lesson I will ever learn. She taught me what is most important in life.

Friends, family and, most of all, love.

*****

Jon brushed back a lock of hair from Sofia’s face, the steady beep-beep of the heart monitor as reassuring to him as the constant sound of her breathing next to his. She lay on the hospital bed next to him, his arms tightly clasped around her, as she reclined against his chest.

The doctors and nurses had tried insisting that he leave after she had been wheeled out of the operating theatre and placed in this white, sterile recovery room, explaining that she needed time alone to heal and recover. Jon snorted in disbelief at that prognosis, wondering where they had found these particular experts, as they knew nothing about Sofia. Instead, once they had finally left, with thinly veiled threats to call security and have him thrown out, he climbed into bed with her and gently, so as not to exacerbate her injury, gathered her into his arms.

His constant touches and whispered words of reassurance, finally allowed her to relax and fall asleep in his arms. That had been many hours before. He, however, just wanted to stay awake to relish the time they had together alone.

Dropping a kiss onto her pale skin, Jon promised himself he would never again leave her. You are going to be fine, he said, the words comforting himself just as much as they were meant to comfort her. I am not going anywhere. I plan on staying here by your side, just like this, for the rest of our lives.

Was that another proposal? Sofia asked sleepily, burrowing closer to his shoulder, her head still resting on his chest.

Smiling absently, Jon replied, I didn’t know you were awake. Taking a ringlet of her hair, he wrapped it around one of his fingers.

How am I expected to get any sleep with your constant whispering? she asked, her lips turned upwards in a smile. Anyway stop avoiding the question. Was that another proposal? I must say it was about as romantic as your last one.

Jon thought back, finally remembering saying something similar to her while they were in his bed, almost five years before. The day after they had made love for the first time. At the time he’d told her it was a promise for the future. But suddenly that did not seem enough for him. He wanted more. So, very quietly, so not as to awaken her if she had fallen back asleep, he whispered. Yes, that was a proposal. Sofia will you marry me?

After several moments of silence, Jon sighed, guessing she had fallen back asleep. Instead, she whispered, I thought you would never ask.

*****

Staring at the ring shining in the palm of his hand, Jon could not help but think there was no better ring to wed Sofia with than her mother’s. Something that many years before she had admitted to him was all that she had left of her. She was trying to hold back her tears, and mouthed a soundless Thank you, as he unhooked the chain from around her neck and slid the ring into his hand. However, before he could put it onto her finger, there was one other person’s approval that he sought.

With the ring still resting in his palm, Jon turned to face his soon-to-be father-in-law, lifting his gaze to look him in the eye, only to observe the older man’s sight focused on the object in his hand. My Lord? He asked hesitantly, unsure of the distant expression on the other man’s face. It might have been his imagination, but Jon thought he saw tears in the Emperor’s eyes before he nodded in agreement.

I’m no longer your Lord, Marcus gently reminded him. You're soon to be my son and should address me as such.

Jon thought for a moment, then with a quirk of his lips replied. Dad?

Marcus visibly winced. Only occasionally, he insisted, before adding. Anyway, are you going to marry my daughter, or do you want me to find someone else?

I’m on it, Jon laughed, turning back to once again face the pastor.

Now that a suitable ring had finally been found, the pastor continued on with the service. Since it is your intention to enter into marriage, join your right hands and declare your consent.

Looking Sofia in the eye, delicately slipping the ring onto her finger, unsurprised to find it was a perfect fit, Jon stated in a loud, clear voice. Sofia take this ring as a sign of my commitment and fidelity to you.

Jon and Sofia, the pastor concluded. In so much as the two of you have agreed to live together in matrimony, have promised your commitment to each other by these vows, and the joining of your hands, by the authority vested in me by the Confederation, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Congratulations. You may kiss your bride.

Again, Paul added from his side, good-naturedly.

Jon did not need to be told twice, and his mouth swooped down to catch his new wife’s upturned lips.

A few minutes later Paul added softly "I think you can stop kissing the bride now Jon."

All in all, everybody agreed it was a perfect day for the wedding of the last Imperial Princess, Sofia Aurelius and Commander Jonathan Radec. The day was only slightly marred, at the very end, by the distant roll of thunder and the storm clouds appearing on the horizon.

Chapter One

Present Day

Planet Eden Prime, Eden System

Sofia Aurelius-Radec, the last Imperial Princess, wrapped her robe tighter around herself to ward off the morning chill. It was still early, several weeks since her wedding and the sun was only just starting to creep above the horizon. The early morning rays, pushing back the darkness, projected bands of colour across the domed roof of the Confederation Senate. The white marble colonnades, refracting the weak morning sunlight, cast streamers of red, yellow and gold, which all merged together until it seemed as if the Senate were aglow, on fire.

Nursing her first cup of hot coffee of the morning, trying to banish the last vestiges of sleep, she watched the steam rise from the cup, swirling and unfolding in the brisk morning air. Finally tearing her gaze away from the scene outside, Sofia turned back to her empty apartment and equally empty bed. She had been up for hours, having awoken cold and alone. Twisting the wedding ring around her finger, in what she had come to recognise as a gesture of concern, she wondered for the twelfth time that morning if she should just call him. However he was probably still asleep and, after all, it was she who had banished him from her sight the night before, claiming it was considered bad luck to see the groom on the morning of their wedding day. With laughter in his eyes Jon, of course, had pointed out to her that legally they had already been married for several weeks, but she had still stubbornly insisted, claiming tradition. Therefore she had nobody to blame but herself when she had awoken missing her husband’s warm embrace. They had already been forced to spend too many years apart and now she felt his absence even more keenly, when finally there was nothing left to keep them apart, yet…

She knew his absence was not the only reason for her lack of sleep. Her conscience had also been bothering her. Jon had bared his soul to her many months ago, telling her the truth about his deception, but she hadn’t done likewise. Sighing to herself angrily, Sofia reluctantly admitted there were still far too many secrets lingering between them, and they were never going to be truly happy until both had confessed all.

Yet Sofia had no idea how to tell Jon her secret. She had loved him for many, many years and his absence had weighed heavily upon her soul. Now that they were finally together, she was desperately frightened that if she told him the truth she might lose him all over again.

This time forever.

However, he had a right to know and, even worse, Sofia knew he would eventually find out about the shameful secret she had kept from him for so long. How terrible it would be if he found out from somebody else. No, it was better to hear it from her own lips. At least that way, after he knew the truth, she could get down and beg his forgiveness. On her hands and knees, if necessary, for the chance to explain why.

Turning once again to look outside, staring at the Senate, she wavered. Perhaps now was not the best time. After all, they were soon to be married, officially, and this time with all the pomp and pageantry due to her position as an Imperial Princess. Sofia once again suppressed the urge to throttle her father.

It was entirely his fault.

*****

Absolutely not, Sofia practically screamed, her eyes burning with anger. Stamping her foot and tightening her fists, she seemed prepared to physically strike her father.

But princess—

"Don’t you princess me, she interrupted him. I am not six years old anymore, father, and I am more than capable of making my own decisions, especially regarding how and where I am going to get married."

The snigger that emanated from the couch made both protagonists turn round to stare angrily at the source of the noise.

You’d better take care Marcus. She has a vicious right hook, and I should know, she has hit me with it enough times, Jon said, in an amused tone. He was reclining on the sofa with his feet propped up on the antique wooden coffee table, his hands resting comfortably behind his head. With his sword resting on the edge of the chair, he watched both father and daughter with a considerable amount of interest. In the past he would have intervened in these arguments to protect Sofia from her father’s wrath. However, in this instance, she seemed to be doing a more than an adequate job of holding her own. Jon was most curious to observe the final outcome in this epic clash of wills.

Jon.

Commander.

It was obvious from both adversaries’ tones his interruption was less than welcome. Deciding to suggest a compromise before they resumed their argument and one of them said something they would live to regret, he quickly added, Why not just have two ceremonies? Realising he now had their attention, he expanded upon his earlier statement. A small intimate wedding, just for family and close friends, followed by a more elaborate affair to satisfy the political obligations. After all, you are still the Confederation President, if only for a few more months.

But where to hold the family ceremony? Every building on this planet has one political affiliation or another, Sofia mused out aloud, warming to Jon’s suggestion.

Then don’t hold it inside. Hold it outside. The Senate Park is close by and I, for one, have always been particularly fond of it. I have always found it refreshingly free of squabbling politicians and datapad-clutching bureaucrats. I always assumed they were all allergic to bright sunshine and fresh air, Jon quipped, forgetting he was presently in the company of both.

With a growl from Sofia and an angry glare from Marcus, Jon quickly added. Present company excluded, of course.

We’re having the family ceremony first, Sofia stated firmly, turning back to her father.

But princess—

Jon just laughed when his wife-to-be shook her fist angrily at her father.

*****

Sofia shook her head firmly. No, there was always going to be one reason or another for her to postpone this. She had never been one for procrastination, preferring to tackle her problems head-on. It was just this decision she had been wavering over. With newfound determination, she was marching back inside, toward the communication console, to call Jon, when the chime of the apartment door interrupted her. Biting back a curse, she wondered if the universe itself was conspiring to postpone this conversation with Jon.

What? Come, she called out, changing direction and headed towards the entrance of their apartment.

As the door slid open and the visitor stepped inside the room, Sofia’s jaw dropped open in shock. What the hell are you doing here? You cannot be here. Didn’t I tell you we couldn’t see each other until the start of the ceremony? She demanded in a waspish tone of voice, conveniently forgetting she had just been about to summon him anyway.

Good morning my love. You are awake early this morning, Jon replied, stepping inside, completely ignoring her comment and dropping an easy kiss on her lips. He snatched the coffee cup out of her hands on the way past. Thanks, I need that. Busy day ahead. Have you been up long? he asked with a knowing smile.

Sofia just stared at him in astonishment, hands resting on her hips, trying to decide if she was more amused or annoyed by his antics. What was even worse was that he knew why she was up so early, and was just so damn smug about it. For a moment she considered pouring the contents of the coffee cup over his head but, before she had the opportunity, she observed his clothes. With the tight-fitting jeans, sweatshirt and light jacket he wore, he did not look like a person preparing for a wedding. But instead—Where do you think you’re going? she demanded with narrowed eyes.

Out, came the succinct reply.

I gathered that from your clothes, but out where? I don’t need to remind you that we’re scheduled to be getting married, again, in a few hours, she added before Jon could remind her.

You want to elope? he inquired, with a warm smile that made her stomach flip. Having put down her coffee cup, he approached and gently slid his arms around her.

Sofia leaned into his embrace, relaxing when his warmth, his scent, that essence that was unique to him, surrounded her. It was only then she realised just how tense she had been all morning. She pretended to give his question careful thought and, in all honesty, she did briefly consider it, just to pay her father back for all his recent meddling in her life.

We could run away together, he continued, unrepentantly. Steal a shuttle, find some undiscovered world and populate it with our offspring. Meanwhile he continued to press gentle kisses along his wife’s neck, pleased to observe the way she angled her head back to give him better access.

Hmm, was her only response, lost somewhere between a sigh and a moan.

Jon smiled, mission accomplished; now hopefully he could make his escape before his wife enquired—

So where are you off to and why don’t you want me to know about it? she glared at him.

Damn. Busted.

Just a brief meeting. I’ll be back before you have even noticed that I am gone, he replied evasively, with a casual smile.

I know when you’re lying to me. You never look me in the eye when you lie to me.

Sighing to himself, as his wife really did know him too well, he explained. There was a message waiting for me this morning. The caller did not identify himself, but he did know me by name and wants to meet this morning.

To discuss? she prompted him impatiently.

"A possible threat to you, your father and the Confederation," Jon exclaimed in a rush.

What?

You’re not going to make me say that again, are you? he cringed.

But why? Why you? It’s not your responsibility. There are other people, and it’s their job to—

I don’t care about other people. It’s my job to protect you and to keep you safe. Now that I finally have you, I am not going to let you go, not for anything. I don’t know what I would do if I ever lost you. When we were in the Senate and I heard that shot… he shuddered.

Recognising that Jon needed her reassurance, just as much as she needed his, she tightened her hold on him, pulling him more firmly into her embrace. You’re not going to lose me. I know you want to protect me but, at the same time, you cannot go hiding me away every time somebody makes a threat against us.

Actually I was thinking of tying you to our bed instead, Jon said with a grin, giving her a heated gaze.

Sofia blushed, assuming he was joking. But, considering his look, perhaps not.

Anyway, he continued. Gunny has agreed to accompany me. He is almost as bad as you, constantly mothering me.

Having known each other for over five years and, for much of that time, serving as one of Jon’s deck chiefs on Terra Nova, Master Sergeant Patrick Gunny Reynolds was one of Jon’s closest friends. However, prior to the disbanding of the Imperial Navy, Gunny had been in the Imperial Marines. At over six feet in height and weighing almost two hundred pounds, the man’s presence was intimidating. Rumour had it Gunny had once, single handily, led a marine boarding action against a pirate cutter, only to have the pirates immediately abandon ship when faced by him.

It’s just because we worry about you, Sofia added softly. You cannot save the galaxy by yourself you know.

You never know, maybe I just haven’t tried yet, he replied, with a boyish grin.

Sofia just rolled her eyes, but tightened her hold on him fractionally when he tried to pull away. At his quizzical expression she added, Do you have a few minutes? There is something I need to tell you.

Jon opened his mouth, about to explain that she had to be quick, as Gunny was scheduled to arrive any minute now, when he abruptly snapped his mouth shut. How many times had she uttered those exact words to him? When they had last been together, here, on Eden Prime. Perhaps if they had made more time for each other, had better communicated, then all of the subsequent lies and misunderstandings could have been avoided. So instead he just nodded his head in agreement.

Staring into Jon’s soft, grey eyes, Sofia wondered for the life of her how she was going to tell him what happened. Jon, I have been meaning to tell you something for a long time. You have been nothing but honest with me and I should have told you this a long time ago, but I have been scared. I have only just found you again and I do not want to lose you. I love you, so please give me the opportunity to explain— he did not say anything, just nodded in agreement, taking her hand in his and giving her such a loving look that it almost broke her heart. How could she tell him? This wonderful man had sacrificed everything for her, and she knew this would destroy him. So instead she just continued to stare at him helplessly.

You’re trembling, Jon exclaimed in surprise, taking her other hand in his and lifting their entwined fingers to brush gently against her pale cheeks. I love you, he insisted firmly. There is nothing you can say or do that will make me love you any less. Just tell me what is troubling you so I can help.

Nodding her head in agreement, Sofia drew strength from him, explaining, When you were last here, on Eden Prime, five years ago, after we—

The chime from the door interrupted her explanation, leaving Sofia unsure whether to be relieved or frustrated.

She had been so close.

Jon just ignored the sound, continuing to stare intently at her. Ignore it, he insisted. You are more important. Tell me what is worrying you, let me in, please? He gazed beseechingly into her frightened eyes.

Before she could reply, the chime from the door sounded again, this time interrupting their moment. Sofia slipped out of Jon’s arms calling out, Come, even as she wrapped her arms tightly around herself, as if to ward off the sudden chill after the warmth of his embrace. Finally she looked up, in genuine delight, as Gunny stepped into their apartment. Quickly crossing the distance between them, she enfolded him in a familiar embrace, saying, It’s good to see you again Gunny. How are Jane and little Elizabeth?

Gunny went an interesting shade of scarlet in response to the question. While he and Lieutenant Castle had been dating constantly for over a year, he was still not comfortable talking about their relationship. Additionally, he was not used to such familiar physical contact with women, especially an Imperial Princess. Her warm touch reminded him too much of the time Miranda had challenged him to arm wrestle on the flight deck of Terra Nova, after they had a heated disagreement about the best method to load the freighters. Gunny’s ears still went an interesting shade of pink whenever he was reminded of that incident—and the subsequent kiss.

They are both fine, thank you Princess, Gunny replied gruffly, gently disentangling himself from the younger woman, ignoring the knowing smirk from the Commander.

How many times have I told you to call me Sofia?

Many times, Princess, Gunny responded taking a step back, giving her a slight bow. Embracing Imperial Princesses just instinctively seemed wrong to him. Such people should be observed from a distance and their orders promptly carried out. Touching them and having them, in turn, embrace him, just played havoc with his senses. Commander, are you ready? he asked his boss, who was standing behind the Princess, laughter dancing in his eyes.

Sure Gunny. Just give us a minute?

I’ll wait for you outside. He inclined his head in the direction of the corridor, glad to escape from any further uncomfortable conversation.

Once the door had slid shut, with three long strides, Jon reached his wife’s side and, before she could react, wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a long, hard, bruising kiss. Eventually he released her, so that they could both breathe again. He took her face firmly in his hands and looked deeply into her eyes. This is not over. When I get back, you and I are going to sit down and have a long talk about whatever is bothering you, okay?

Sofia could only nod in agreement, not trusting herself to say any more. However, as he turned his back on her and was about to step through the door, she was reminded of where he was about to go and a terrible sense of panic and fear seemed to instil itself within her. Jon, she cried out.

Hearing the fright in her voice, he turned around in surprise to see her hurrying after him, tugging at something on her finger. When she reached his side, she pried open his hand and dropped something into it. Looking down, Jon was shocked and more than a little hurt to see she had deposited her wedding ring on his palm. Before he could respond, Sofia pressed a finger to his lips.

This belonged to my mother. After you and my father, this is the most precious thing in my life. Keep it safe for me. You can put it back on my hand later today, when you get back for the wedding. Whatever happens I’ll be here, waiting for you.

Jon was about to refuse, but Sofia just closed his hand tightly around the ring and, with a lingering kiss, pushed him in the direction of the door. He stared at her intently for a moment then, with a nod of his head, was gone.

Leaving Sofia to once again contemplate their empty apartment and decide how she was going to be able to tell him the truth about what happened all those years ago.

*****

Something wrong Commander? Gunny inquired, obviously noticing the frown on Jon’s face as he stepped out of the apartment, staring distractedly at his tightly clenched hand.

What? Oh no, nothing, Jon replied, slipping the ring into his pocket, before turning to face Gunny. It was only then he noticed what Gunny had slung over his shoulder. Expecting trouble, Gunny? he said, pointing towards the massive rifle. The weapon was almost as long as Gunny was tall, the barrel almost touching the floor.

You can never have too many guns, Gunny replied, patting the rifle affectionately.

It was not the first time Jon had heard this saying from the older man, and he wondered if it was just Gunny, or perhaps a marine thing.

The rest of the team are waiting in the shuttle. Gunny interrupted Jon’s thoughts.

Rest of the team? Jon inquired in disbelief. "I’m only meeting somebody for coffee. Okay, I do agree that the topic of conversation is a credible threat against Sofia, Marcus and possibly the entire Confederation, but still, don’t you think you’re being just a bit paranoid? We’re on Eden Prime, the most heavily defended planet in the entire Confederation, this is not Transcendence," Jon insisted firmly.

Jon had previously attended a meeting on a civilian trading station called Transcendence. The original intent of the meeting was to conclude negotiations and sign a contract for new business for Vanguard, the company that Jon headed as Chief Executive. However, it subsequently turned out to be just a cover story, the real purpose of the meeting to pass information to him from a deep cover navy operative about an imminent threat to the Confederation. The meeting had been abruptly cut short, when several heavily armed assailants had attacked them. The attack had killed the operative and Jon had been lucky to escape with his life.

Gunny nodded his head in agreement. That’s why we’re only bringing a company of troops. Anywhere else in the Confederation and I would have insisted on bringing along the entire battalion. Anyway, I’m under orders from the boss.

The boss? Jon repeated confused. I was not aware Paul had arrived yet? I thought he was scheduled to arrive just before the ceremony was due to get underway. You know Paul; he hates all this pomp and pageantry even more than I.

"Not that boss, the boss, Gunny replied in exasperation, turning his head in the direction of the fast approaching figure. He mentioned something about his daughter killing him if he let anything happen to you."

Whatever else Gunny was going to say, was interrupted by the arrival of that person. Jon, however, could only gape in disbelief at what he was wearing. By the Great Maker what are you wearing? Jon said after a moment’s hesitation, audibly snapping his mouth shut.

I’ve been informed that this is the official dress code, the newest addition to the trio explained, pointing at his clothes with obvious distaste. For the man was dressed in a bright pink, long sleeve, collared polo shirt with tan coloured, knee-length Bermuda shorts and a pair of white socks that came up to his knees.

Jon was at a complete loss for words. If he were to tell anybody the man standing before them was one of the most powerful in the Confederation, an ex-Imperial Emperor, who had once overseen the lives of tens of billions of people, he would have been laughed at. Where on Eden Prime are you planning on going dressed like that? he asked incredulously.

Golf, came the terse reply.

Golf? Jon echoed, dubiously.

It seems to be the latest craze, some ancient recreational activity that used to be popular on Old Earth. It has recently been re-introduced here on Eden Prime. I have been informed that it involves taking a long stick and hitting a small ball—

—and running around a couple of bases to score points, Gunny interrupted confidently. I remember Paul trying to explain it to me once.

No. I think that’s the other one, Marcus frowned. This one involves chasing after the ball in little fusion powered buggies, he explained.

The group went silent for a while, as each member of the trio tried to visualise the game. But, with a general shaking of heads, it was obvious they all hopelessly failed.

Some of the older members of the Senate have invited me along for a round as a guest, for it seems that otherwise it is by membership only. I’ll be investigating how one acquires membership while I am there, he concluded, in an ominous tone.

Jon could just imagine the scene, when Marcus was refused membership. With a puzzled look he asked. "But why are you learning to play golf?"

Because I have nothing else to do. Marcus’ cry echoed down the corridor. I’m slowly going crazy. I need something to occupy my mind. Turning back to Jon he grabbed the front of his jacket and insisted desperately. "I need grandchildren. At least then I will have something to occupy my time. I can teach them how to rule an Empire, to play the various Senators off against each other and how to keep the Fleet in-line." Marcus warmed to the thought, rubbing his hands together in gleeful anticipation.

Jon and Gunny just exchanged knowing glances, each deliberately avoiding making a face. While Marcus had long since retired, it was obviously going to take him sometime longer to adjust.

Only noticing Gunny for the first time, Marcus’ eyes widened when he observed the huge rifle slung over his shoulder. I’d completely forgotten about the meeting, he commented, when suddenly his face lit up with an idea. I could come with you. Yes, he insisted excitedly. I could go undercover and act as a lookout for you both.

Jon and Gunny once against exchanged glances, but this time with a look of horror. The idea of Marcus Aurelius, once the Imperial Emperor, with probably the most recognisable face in the entire Galaxy, acting as an undercover lookout!

No, Jon stated firmly.

But—

Absolutely not, he reiterated, as the group continued down the corridor.

As the three of them departed, two in the direction of their waiting shuttle, the third for his appointment on the golf course, it occurred to Jon that none of them were well suited to the idea of retirement. Fortunately, for Jon and Gunny at least, that day was still a long way off.

It was time to get back to work.

*****

Lifting the coffee cup to his lips, enjoying the rich aroma, Jon’s eyes darted around the small open-air Piazza. Still early in the morning, with the sun resting low in