Planetary Wars Rise of an Empire

By Mary Ann Bernal

Caught up in a whirlwind romance, Anastasia Dennison, M.D., does not realize her husband is the terrifying dictator, Jayden Henry Shaw, who rules the galaxy with an iron fist while pretending to defend the vulnerable against the Imperial Forces of the Empire.

Denying the existence of widespread suffering, Anastasia ignores her principles as she embraces the spoils of war and takes her rightful place among the upper echelon of Terrenean society.

Will Anastasia continue to support her husband’s quest for complete domination of every world within the cosmos, or will she follow her conscience and fight the evil invading her home?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mary Ann Bernal
• Release date: Feb 14, 2018
• ISBN: 9781370296606

Mary Ann Bernal

Mary Ann Bernal attended Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, NY, where she received a degree in Business Administration; her literary aspirations were ultimately realized when the first book of The Briton and the Dane novels was published in 2009. In addition to writing historical fiction, Mary Ann has also authored a collection of contemporary short stories, a science fiction/fantasy novel, and action and adventure novellas.Her recent work includes Crusader’s Path, a redemption story set against the backdrop of the First Crusade; Forgiving Nero, a novel of Ancient Rome that explores the complex relationship between the emperor and his mother; and the AnaRose novellas, which follows the adventures of a museum curator and relic hunter thwarting black marketeers.Since Operation Desert Storm, Mary Ann has been a passionate supporter of the United States military, having been involved with letter-writing campaigns and other support programs. She appeared on The Morning Blend television show hosted by KMTV, the CBS television affiliate in Omaha, and was interviewed by the Omaha World-Herald for her volunteer work. She has been a featured author on various reader blogs and promotional sites. Mary Ann currently resides in Elkhorn, Nebraska.

Book preview

Part One

The Seduction

Chapter One

Jayden Henry Shaw watched the landing spacecraft from his office window. His posture was impeccable as he stood with his hands behind his back. The crystal-clear glass reflected perfection but Jayden was not faultless. Tyranny was a compelling aphrodisiac and that made him dangerous.

Growing up in the capital city of Setares where the Shaw family wielded power long thought extinct in an age of social equality, Jayden Henry Shaw had learned the intricacies of governing, mastering the political game earlier than his counterparts.

Even though egalitarianism had been established after the last world war nearly destroyed the planet, an aristocratic class subtly seized control, and the general public was none the wiser.

A select few held onto their influence while becoming wealthy and were eventually segregated from society as a whole. This group occupied a third of the municipality, creating a sub-city where entry was by written invitation.

After years of exploitation, the lower classes lacked the basic necessities for survival. Tensions were rising, and there was talk of rebellion. How could this have happened? Developing such a hierarchy had to have been pre-meditated. And who was behind this? Could they be stopped? And who are they?

An angry mob stormed the government premises. Its inhabitants barely escaped with their lives. Everyone was safely evacuated to some unknown destination. Everyone that is, except Jayden Henry Shaw.

By age thirty-five, Jayden Henry Shaw became aware of the unrest, after having visited the neighborhoods and developing personal relationships with the lower classes, which gave them hope. He championed the military by providing more than adequate funding to retain a well-trained fighting force. Shaw used his influence while a member of the Planetary Governing Assembly to interact with the armed services of participating members. He procured much-needed financial support for the legions of skilled men, often forgotten when there was peace.

At the onset of the Setares rebellion, Jayden Henry Shaw took control of the city and declared martial law. Within a month, Shaw was the absolute ruler of Terrene, setting his sights on conquering every world in the known universe.

The reign of Jayden Henry Shaw had begun.

***

A firm knock had Jayden turning towards Mason, his second in command, who entered quickly and closed the door. Taking a seat, the executive officer waited until his lifelong friend sat before speaking.

It’s as we suspected. Vesta maintains a permanent militia whose numbers are swelling with new recruits that are arriving on a daily basis from the outlying planets. The rallying cry is don’t let freedom die, which is now spreading to other occupied territories. We’ve been able to quell the rebels in these locales, except on Vesta. Confirmed intel reports numerous factions reverting to guerrilla tactics with much success. We haven’t been able to penetrate these groups; they appear to be independent of each other. I want to go there myself, but as a traveler, or a merchant, staying a month or longer. Dean is more than capable to handle my responsibilities until I return, but, it’s your call. What do you think?

Jayden mulled over the idea, foreseeing every outcome before deciding that the plan had merit. Rising, he paced the length of the room while speaking.

It could work, but I’ll accompany you. I haven’t been down in the trenches, lately, and have lost touch with the people. We need to discover why they’re defiant. The Empire provides what’s needed to survive. Why isn’t that enough?

Jayden put his hands on Mason’s shoulder and said, We could use a vacation. How about inviting Dean and Evan? It’ll be the four of us, like old times when we bar-hopped and picked up women. Who knows, I might find the perfect woman to give me an heir.

***

Vesta was a beautiful planet, sitting at the edge of the universe, alone in the darkness, its nearest neighbor light years away.

The self-sufficient world had evolved naturally and, as the centuries passed, the Vestians became technologically competitive, discovering other life in the vast cosmos.

The populace lived in a lawful society. Their cities beckoned the best and the brightest, but the countryside had its own allure with its laid-back lifestyle that was a far cry from the commotion of a thriving metropolis. The local police kept order in the streets while the military controlled outer space.

Vesta had been compared to a Utopian civilization but war and conquest shattered its innocence and neutrality. The government had not been prepared for such an onslaught when Shaw’s forces appeared out of nowhere, with an ultimatum to surrender or face certain death. The ruling council had refused to capitulate, and Vesta found itself at war with the Empire.

What should have been a straightforward victory for Shaw’s Imperial troops became a humiliating defeat. The commander of the fleet had underestimated the enemy who destroyed half his ships. Ground forces were picked off with precision by an invisible defender blending in with the environment, chameleon-like, and deadly.

Presently, Vesta was safe from annihilation. However, if Vesta fell, enslavement of the survivors was a given, yet if the Vestians were to win the next battle, the victory would be catastrophic to the Empire, threatening Shaw’s control of the galaxy. At the moment, life returned to a semblance of normalcy. The first noticeable change was the strengthening of all fortifications while building new defenses in strategic locations. Another development was the compulsory enlistment of all eligible citizens into the armed forces that included previously exempt vocations, specifically, physicians and surgeons. Recruiting Stations processed hundreds of applications daily, and morale was high.

Being patriots, Doctor Anastasia Dennison and her best friend, Doctor Sophia Loft, were eager to join the Vestian Medical Corps. They specialized in Emergency Medicine and had gained battlefield experience treating the wounded during the first attack. Additionally, both women were researchers, hoping to find a cure for a genetically inherited mutated gene, which plagued five percent of the population that remained incarcerated in a guarded internment camp not far from the city. Living conditions on the unwelcoming part of the planet were shocking. The illegal detainment of citizens was a blight on Vestian society, but this deplorable secret had been kept from the public. Most Vestians believed the riddle of the mutated gene had been solved generations ago, and the anomaly became a mere footnote in the textbooks.

Anastasia and Sophia had been approached by the government to develop a cure, which meant a visit to the hidden site. What they witnessed was appalling. Since the mutated gene affected individuals differently, the degree of intelligence varied as did developmental deformities.

It took a week to document each resident with their specific disorder. The appropriate samples were taken, and a nutritional regimen was to be implemented before the doctors agreed to honor the classified status of the project.

Over the course of a year, Anastasia and Sophia returned to the Rock Bridge facility frequently where they checked on the health of their patients, making sure their dietary requirements were being met. Anastasia built a house close by, which included a medical treatment facility. Chase, her medical robotic A.I., lived on the premises and kept her apprised of the guards’ activities.

It looks like we’re finally next, Sophia said. I hope we get to work in the same place.

Anastasia nodded in agreement, as she came upon the recruiter. A retinal scan confirmed her identification with CLASSIFIED written across the screen. It was the same for Sophia.

Follow me, the recruiter said, as he led them to the back of the building. Wait here.

I hope we didn’t do something wrong, Sophia said. I guess being employed by the government means we needed permission to sign up?

Both of you have already been commissioned, a Lieutenant said while joining the women. There appears to be a communication problem. You should’ve been taken to Control once the enemy was defeated. I apologize for the mix-up. My sergeant can bring you there now.

Well, it looks like we’ll be together, Anastasia said, as the vehicle sped towards the center of the city. Hope we get decent quarters.

Within minutes, Anastasia and Sophia were ushered through the check-in and led to the third floor. They were excited as they entered a spacious suite and were seated in front of a large desk facing an officer wearing a Special Forces uniform.

Sorry for the confusion, the officer said. We’re still in the process of finalizing deployments. Both of you have been added to the staff at the Colwich City Medical Center. Your first priority is continuing your research, but you’ll also cover Emergency Medicine. Housing has been arranged in an adjoining apartment complex until the Empire’s threat to conquer Vesta has been neutralized. You report for duty in the morning. Any questions?

Can we go home on weekends? Sophia asked.

You’re now officially part of the Armed Forces and you must follow orders. If permission is granted, you may leave the premises. Remember, we’re at war.

Yes, sir, Anastasia and Sophia replied in unison before leaving.

The sergeant escorted the women to their respective residences for the evening, returning at dawn to take them to the Colwich City Medical Center. If all went well, their temporary tour of duty would not last very long.

Chapter Two

There were two major facets of Shaw’s personality, a friendly charming persona, which was known to a select few, and conversely, a cruel and ruthless demeanor that was revealed to everyone else.

While growing up, Jayden was given the nurturing love and attention necessary to generate a productive member of society. Setares was a cultural city, a center of knowledge that enticed the learned from all parts of the galaxy.

The planet was experiencing a golden age, a revival of a civilization devoid of status, where every citizen was equal, regardless of their level of education and choice of employment.

Petty crime was practically non-existent since each citizen’s needs were met. The possibilities were endless. If one was born in the country but wished to have a career in the city, there were infinite opportunities to achieve the dream.

Mason and Jayden had been neighbors and were the same age. They were educated at the same schools, played with the same friends, and considered themselves brothers. Jayden and Mason were good children who grew into good men, becoming interested in serving the people in leadership positions.

Jayden’s charming smile attracted women since his teenage years. He had numerous relationships throughout his life, but he had yet to meet the woman, a partner to trust with his innermost confessions.

While attending Setares University, Jayden and Mason met roommates Dean and Evan, and they became close. Life was still good, but the socioeconomic undercurrents were eroding the fabric of stability.

A class system developed, subtly. Yet to the trained eye, the change was really transparent. People in the government began to assert their influence over ordinary citizens. Workers from the outlying fields were looked at with distaste. The cost of goods and services increased, albeit gradually. Salaries stagnated and new employees were hired at a lower wage.

As the four friends finished their education, an elite hierarchy was established, and they reaped the rewards of their parents’ aspirations. The next step was becoming a member of the Planetary Governing Assembly where the future dictator gained extensive knowledge of Terrene’s democratic institutions and learned about the various forms of government practiced on other planets within the solar system. Most worlds were democratic republics, but a few absolute monarchies still existed.

Jayden excelled in statesmanship. Mason, Dean, and Evan preferred serving in the Armed Forces where they surpassed expectations in their respective disciplines.

The tide was beginning to turn on Terrene and Jayden formulated a plan to overthrow the existing leaders. It was not to be a sudden coup d’état, but a calculated takeover, with military support, which included Mason, Dean, and Evan at the helm.

While a member of the Governance Body, Jayden had aligned himself with high-ranking military officers from every represented planet. He was not merely a friend; he was an ally with influence who had secured funding during financial crises and during budgetary negotiations. He kept in contact with every commander after his term in office expired, and he knew he had their support.

Returning to Setares, Jayden walked the streets of the city. He noticed declining neighborhoods and too many homeless people. He was accessible, speaking to groups and individuals alike while promising change. Jayden’s charisma attracted the masses and he became their savior.

Patience was one of Jayden’s virtues. He was cunning, manipulative, and cruel, but he had restrained those traits since childhood, not even Mason had been privy to his true nature, at this point.

When the mob attacked the leadership, Jayden already held the reins. Mason’s forces directed the crowd while Dean’s troops whisked the frightened affluent class to safety. They were never seen again, but then, no one gave them a second thought.

After declaring martial law, Evan’s soldiers patrolled the streets, arresting dissidents as Jayden offered succor to the frightened citizens who had failed to leave the city, housing them in military barracks where they remained until they recognized Jayden as their supreme leader. He had no qualms about executing any who did not sanction his authority.

The transition had not been difficult. Within a month, Jayden’s socialized programs were operational. People were fed, given shelter and medical care. Employers were hiring at a reasonable wage, yet martial law remained in effect.

Mason was not surprised that Terrene had surrendered after one month. Jayden was the brains, Mason, Dean, and Evan were the brawn. Soon, Jayden would be the supreme ruler of the universe but soon took longer than expected, because Shaw had not counted on an organized resistance movement.

***

Colwich City was a thriving metropolis despite the imminent threat shrouding Vesta. Jayden spent much of the day by himself, wandering the streets, eavesdropping on conversations, visiting shops, museums, the financial district, the courts, and medical centers. Military Control was adjacent to the travel port, which had been Jayden’s initial point of entry weeks ago.

The men came across rooms in a vintage boarding house located in an artistically renowned neighborhood. The local inhabitants pointed out architectural landmarks, recommending restaurants and top attractions, which kept Mason, Dean, and Evan busy. It was not difficult to blend in, and unless one was privy to their point of origin, one would swear the visitors were born and bred Vestians.

One afternoon, Jayden was sitting in the courtyard of the Colwich City Medical Center. He chose a bench near a cluster of trees, a welcoming respite from the midday heat. Watching people was an educational pastime. A favorite game was discerning occupations by observing mannerisms and attire. What was intriguing was the lack of class distinction. It was possible labor robotic A.I.’s performed tasks considered menial, which eliminated the caste system altogether.

As Jayden was about to call it a day, he noticed an alluring woman leaving the hospital. Her shoulder-length brown hair billowed in the wind, unruly strands caressing her face. A white lab coat covered blue scrubs, which attested to her profession. She carried a leather briefcase while walking swiftly to the apartment complex located on the premises.

Jayden followed her into the lobby where she waited for the elevator.

Excuse me, I’m new here, and I was wondering, could you recommend a good restaurant, Miss…?

Doctor Anastasia Dennison, and The Bixby, on the next street over, has the best local food, in my opinion.

The elevator door opened, but Jayden took hold of her wrist.

Please, join me for coffee, or for something to eat. My name’s Henry, and you’re very attractive.

Anastasia looked directly into Jayden’s eyes. She knew he was a stranger to the area, but he seemed sincere and for some inexplicable reason, she trusted him.

I need to change. Wait for me in the courtyard.

You’ll not regret it, I promise.

While Jayden lingered in the courtyard, he messaged Mason.

Met someone. Will be late. Carry on without me.

Anastasia’s smile was unsettling as Jayden watched her heading towards him. There was something special about her, but what? He was feeling protective, but why? He did not know the woman, yet he could not shake the sentiment, and he wanted her in his life.

Henry, I wasn’t sure if you would still be here. Didn’t mean to be so long. There was a problem with one of my patients.

I’m glad you came, Jayden said. I dare say I was slightly nervous that you had changed your mind. After all, getting picked up in an apartment lobby isn’t the best way to meet someone.

Well, it’s better than the market.

Ah, the marketplace, now that’s a thought! Jayden replied, laughing.

This way, Anastasia said as she grabbed Jayden’s hand. If we hurry, we might get a table before it gets too busy.

Jayden requested a booth towards the back of the restaurant, out-of-the-way, and quiet. The ambiance was amazing, dim lighting and a flickering candle on every table. After placing their order, Jayden raised his wine glass and said,

A toast to new beginnings.

To new beginnings, Anastasia replied to the sound of clinking glass.

Jayden was familiar with the antiquated word, smitten, which accurately described his feelings. Again, he asked himself why? Rather than deny the emotion, he relaxed, beginning the conversation to set Anastasia’s mind at ease.

I guess you know I’m not from around here. Truth be told, I’m on leave. My unit has been in combat, forever, but until there is victory, we fight. I can’t give you any more information. It’s classified.

I understand classified, Anastasia replied. I am a medical doctor and researcher, and my assignments are classified.

Fascinating. So you understand why I won’t always be around, and why I can’t divulge our missions, but there’s more to life than work. Just give me a chance.

Be careful, the plates are hot, the waiter cautioned, as he set down a seafood platter in the center of the table. Let me know if you want anything else.

The couple ate quietly but were almost finished with their meal before Jayden spoke. Wow, guess we were starving, excuse my manners, I wasn’t ignoring you.

Anastasia laughed, pointed her wine glass in Jayden’s direction and replied, My apologies, I didn’t mean to be rude, but, as you noticed, I, we were so hungry. I didn’t eat lunch, but, then, that’s not really an excuse.

The conversation picked up again after the dishes were cleared. Jayden did not reveal very much about himself but pressed Anastasia about her career choices and how she managed to find classified government assignments. Even though Anastasia might furnish accurate intel in the future, Jayden was more interested in her as a partner, a trustworthy confidant, and hoped his instincts were right.

Without compromising anything secretive, Anastasia referred to a second home near the desert where she had built a medical facility that was meant to treat people in outlying areas, such as prospectors, traders, and other travelers, many of which preferred antiquated modes of transportation. She admitted to owning an automobile one drove on the ground, not hovering above in the congested airspace. Naturally, reaching one’s destination would take longer, but there was little traffic. The vehicle remained at the desert house, and Anastasia offered to drive him around the barren countryside.

Discussing family was a different matter. Tears welled up in her eyes as Anastasia’s thoughts were elsewhere. Jayden saw the pain and cursed himself for mentioning the subject.

I’m sorry, Jayden said. I didn’t mean to upset you. My entire family perished during a rebel attack. Have you experienced such a loss?

My parents died during the invasion. I was stationed at a bunker hospital and was away from the onslaught. The location was heavily fortified. We were able to treat the wounded in a secure environment. It was horrific, Henry. I never saw such carnage before, and I hope never to see it again, but it can only get worse when they come back. We must persevere.

Jayden held Anastasia’s hand, wondering aloud about the placement of the bunker, and if it was out of harm’s way.

The bunker is near the Military Control Center. Its camouflaged entrance is embedded in a rock formation and not clearly visible, Anastasia replied to the unasked question. Command is located several stories beneath the medical facilities.

Is there a war room?

Anastasia nodded, but said, Why do you want to know? I think I have said too much.

My concern is for your wellbeing. If you’re so close to Operations, your chances of survival are questionable. That’s the reason I ask. I don’t want you harmed. I’m sorry if I was out of line. Forgive my impertinence. But let’s not talk any more about the war. What are you doing tomorrow? I have two weeks left of leave, and I’d like to spend every hour of the day with you, but the choice is yours.

I’d like that very much, and I do have the next few days off. I can show you the city, places tourists don’t get to see.

Great. How about an early start? Does eight o’clock work? I can meet you at your apartment building, in the lobby.

Sounds good. It’ll be fun, I promise.

Leaving