Star Galaxy: The Lost City

By Mary E. Logsdon

King Solclair requests that his sister mediate peace with a past ally in hopes of regaining their allegiance. However, a simple peace conference quickly turns complicated as hidden agendas bring secret missions that test group trust and strain relationships. Join in the journey through harsh new worlds and political territory that will test the strength, wisdom, and faith of the White Knight and all those around her.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Logsdon Publishing
• Release date: Apr 28, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463022429

Mary E. Logsdon

I'm an active preschool teacher and writer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. I've dreamed of publishing my stories since I was fourteen. I'm happily married to my husband and love God with all of my heart. When I'm not writing and wrangling kids, I enjoy video games, coffee, storytelling, and adventure.

Book preview

[Chapter open graphic]

Chapter 1

An Atlan Mediator

A crackling explosion filled the air.

Surprised, Stalana looked up from reading her book. She listened again. Another blast sounded in the air, followed by distant shouting.

Is there trouble? she wondered as she closed the book.

The girl quickly stood up and darted away from Gideon’s Tree with her sheathed sword beating against her leg. She ran through the forest and had just reached the edge of it when she heard another exploding sound.

She realized the sound was coming from the training grounds. She sprinted toward them.

Not too far away, she spotted a large group of soldiers, men and women both young and old, gathered around the archery field. When she closed in, she sighed in relief upon seeing what was causing the commotion.

Now, ya hold it like this, Jess instructed Silvan as she handed him her upgraded plasma gun. She positioned his arm at the proper angle for guidance. Aim it at the target like ya would a bow, and... fire!

The war veteran pulled the trigger. The blast of the gun forced him to the ground as a ball of yellow electricity flew past the target and skimmed a nearby tree. The people around laughed at the sight.

Oooohhh..., Silvan moaned. That really shook me to the bone!

Ya locked your arm, didn’t ya? Jess asked rhetorically as she helped the man up to his feet. Never a good idea. You can rip muscles or break bones doin’ that.

I see you’re already training these soldiers how to use Phaeneran technology, Jess, Stalana called out to her friend.

When the soldiers took notice of the girl, they quickly bowed before her and saluted.

Eshla Anzi! they greeted.

Come on, Stalana said with a grin. I am a friend here.

The soldiers rose up with smiles on their faces.

That’s one of the things I love about you, Your Highness, Silvan said as he approached her, always so humble and level with all mankind.

It’s a new quality, Stalana admitted. One that takes time to develop.

Perhaps the princess would like to try out the new Plasma Gun? Lieutenant Rewood offered.

The soldiers gave a cheer in approval and encouragement.

Well... alright, Stalana agreed and approached Jess.

The Phaeneran girl held out the gun to the princess while winking her eye.

Stalana shook her head with a smile and took the gun. She aimed it at one of the targets and pulled the trigger three times. Each one hit the center on point.

The crowd went wild.

A perfect bullseye! Silvan said, amazed. Princess, you still astound me.

Well, with enough practice runs, you learn a thing or two, Stalana admitted with a laugh as she handed the gun back to Jess.

Practice runs? Silvan declared. You mean, you already knew how to use it? Now that’s unfair!

Looks like you’re going to need a lot more practice, captain, and a lot less wine, Stalana teased.

The group laughed. Silvan eventually started laughing along.

Suddenly, a neighing horse interrupted the fun.

Stalana turned to see Twindleleaf riding toward them. He stopped the horse right before the large group and dismounted.

Princess, he said as he approached Stalana, I’ve been looking for you. King Solclair wishes to see you right away.

What for? the girl asked the old elf.

It’s a matter of business, lassie, Twindleleaf informed, only meant for your ears alone.

It must be serious, Stalana thought. I’m on my way, she replied.

Hop onto my steed, Twindleleaf told her. You’ll get there faster that way.

The princess approached Twindleleaf’s horse and quickly got on. She turned it around and galloped off toward the tree palace.

She pulled up at the steps to the throne room and hopped down. The guards standing on either side bowed in respect as she rushed up the steps and into the courtroom.

A strange weight of anxiety welcomed her as she walked through the room. She could not explain it, but whatever was causing it seemed serious. At the other end, she spotted her brother talking to Harvest and Commander Rhun.

The men’s conversation stopped when they saw her coming.

Princess Stalana, Commander Rhun saluted with a bow.

Stalana quickly nodded to him in recognition and then faced her brother. She curtsied politely.

Your Majesty, she said to him.

Good to see you, Stalana, Solclair said with a smile.

Stalana looked over at Harvest.

Good morning, father, she greeted joyfully as she hugged him.

Good morning, my daughter, the former king replied. We were wondering where you were.

Just reading in a calm spot, Stalana informed and then turned her attention back to her brother. Twindleleaf said you wanted to see me.

I have a very important mission for you, Solclair began with a serious look on his face. It’s going to require a bit of travel and persuasiveness. I need you to be the mediator in a negotiation with Sudania.

Sudania? The Desert Planet? Stalana asked.

We’ve been having some trouble communicating with their queen, Esadora, Solclair continued. She keeps refusing to hear our negotiation on rejoining Astregasia.

But, I thought Sudania was a part of Astregasia, Stalana reminded.

They broke off from our alliance since the Trade Law was set in motion by Rafalin, Harvest informed. If any planet was more bitter about the law, it was Sudania.

Even worse than the L’Lusians? Stalana asked them in surprise.

By ten times, Harvest confirmed. They have refused to associate themselves with us to the point that they seceded from the kingdom. They have claimed their own government.

Now, they refuse to listen to me, Solclair continued. We’ve been sending letters to them for the last few months, hoping they would hear our terms for peace. It has not been successful. However, I did manage to get their attention with one factor: I made an agreement with them to send an Atlan mediator to keep the peace between them. And that is where you come in.

But I’m your sister, Stalana reminded. Wouldn’t they know that?

That’s the thing, Solclair said with a smile. They don’t know anything of our relationship. They have been so separated from us that they don’t even receive news from us anymore. Thus, they think you are arriving from Atla. However, you wouldn’t be able to go by Stalana while in Sudania. You have to go by Staflana, the White Knight.

So, they know I’m the White Knight, the princess restated. Is that how you got their attention?

Exactly, Solclair replied. They have the White Knight prophecy, so knowing of your presence kept them interested. Because of this, they agreed to listen to our terms.

So, you and I are going to Sudania, Stalana stated.

No, Solclair answered with a shake of his head. I have to be here in preparation for the Harvest Festival.

So, then you’re sending Twindleleaf as the ambassador? Stalana asked.

Not him either, the king replied. I need him here for business. And I’m not sending our father either in case that would be your next question. He already has a bad reputation with the Sudanians that I think would cause further issues.

Then who’s going to stand in as Ambassador of Astregasia? the princess asked.

Rhun is, Solclair replied.

Stalana’s face felt hot at the mention of the commander’s name. Rh... Rhun is coming with me?

He has some political background as former Prince of Astregasia, Harvest reminded. He would know how to best handle the negotiation.

Sure... like last time when he handled our plea for help from Setoria, Stalana thought to herself sarcastically.

It’s important that we have this negotiation come through, Solclair spoke, breaking her thoughts. All the planets will be united again when it does.

How long do you think this will take? Stalana asked.

It shouldn’t take long, Solclair replied, maybe a week at most. You’ll be back in time for the Harvest Festival.

The princess took a deep breath.

I will have a ship ready for departure by dawn, she finally replied. I will require some of the best men you can give me.

"We will let you use The White Willow, Solclair told her. It will get you there fast enough, and it will be a sign of peace between us and the Sudanians."

Very well, Stalana agreed as she curtsied again. It shall be done.

[Chapter open graphic]

Chapter 2

Confident Preparation

A fter the meeting, Stalana retreated to her royal chambers to look over documents and lists for the journey ahead. She wanted to be sure that she had everything she needed before her departure.

A knock at the door interrupted her.

Come in, she called.

The door opened and in walked Twindleleaf grinning from ear to ear.

Hello, Your Highness, he greeted as he walked in.

Mister Twindleleaf, Stalana said as she set down her papers, what brings you here?

I thought I would check on you to see how your preparations were going, the red-headed elf said. I see you’re still going through some things.

It’s a lot, but I can handle it, Stalana replied. But maybe you can tell me about the Sudanians. There’s still much I don’t know about them.

Glad to help you there, Twindleleaf said as he sat down in a chair next to the desk. The Sudanians are a race that doesn’t use technology and isn’t gifted with any magic. In fact, magic in their culture is considered witchcraft. They have many gods they worship there, including the Goddess of the Sun, Haytala. She is supposed to come in the form of a golden hawk flying across the sky. They revere her as the goddess of life and beginnings.

Other gods? Stalana said, astonished.

They don’t know Ransiah like we do, the old elf informed her. Sure, he went there himself to witness, but he was long forgotten since then. So when they meet you, they may think of you as a strange creature for believing in one Creator. They may not trust you at first. That would be when you have to earn their trust in order for them to find the truth.

I can do that, Stalana said. After all, as the White Knight, I can show them the truth.

Speaking of which, have you been reading the scrolls I’ve given you? Twindleleaf asked.

Uh... I really haven’t gotten into them recently, the princess admitted. But don’t worry, I’ll have plenty of time to read them on our trip. I will make sure to do that.

The more you delay, the further you stray, Twindleleaf advised. I did give you those scrolls three weeks ago.

I know, but I’ve been interested in the story of Tozalia and his queen recently, the girl told the elf. I promise, though, that I’ll read the scrolls.

Always remember this, though, the elf spoke. You can’t teach the truth to those who don’t know if you don’t even know the truth yourself.

I understand, Stalana replied. Thank you, Twindleleaf.

Well, I’ll let you get back to your work, Twindleleaf said as he stood up. Don’t stay up too late, though. You will need your rest for your journey.

Yes, sir, the princess answered as she turned toward her documents. Good night, Twindleleaf.

Good night, princess, the old elf saluted as he left the room.

Me stray? Stalana wondered to herself. I couldn’t be any closer to Ransiah. Life has been wonderful since the war. I know I can reach the Sudanians. I will see to it during my stay there. I will make Ransiah proud of me.

*********

Dawn had arrived. Stalana spoke with a couple of soldiers, making sure everything was in order while others loaded the supplies into The White Willow. Things were going according to plan, and they would soon be ready to depart.

Then, in the distance, she spotted Commander Rhun approaching her.

Oh dear, she thought to herself while her heart skipped a beat.

She dismissed the men as Rhun reached her.

Princess, he said politely as he bowed to her.

She looked away from his eyes, feeling hot in the face. She clasped her hands in front of her chest nervously.

Hello, Rhun, she greeted.

Are you alright? Rhun asked her. You seem—

Frazzled, she quickly answered him while forcing herself to look into his face. I... I’m a little frazzled. It’s been a long morning.

Anything I can do to help? the commander offered.

Uh, sure, the princess replied. If you could manage the supply loads and make sure we have everything we need for the trip, that would help me a lot.

Sure thing, my lady, Rhun said. I will see to it that it’s done.

He bowed before her and walked away.

Stalana watched him and then gave a heavy sigh once he was out of sight. Of all the people her brother wanted to send with her, it had to be Commander Rhun. There was no denying that they were on good terms, but ever since Solclair became king and she had taken on her role as the Princess of Astregasia, Rhun appeared to act more like her servant than a friend. She wanted to find out why he changed toward her, but she had been too nervous to ask about it. The situation irked her and made her frustrated.

There was no telling what would happen with them working together as equal warriors when he only looked upon her as royalty.

She shook away from her thoughts when she noticed King Solclair and Twindleleaf walking her way.

Everything is about ready, brother, she informed with a bow.

I wish you a safe journey, sister, Solclair said, taking her by the hand. May Ransiah protect you on your journey.

Don’t forget what I’ve told you about Sudania, Twindleleaf chimed in. You never know when it might come in handy.

I won’t, the princess replied.

Also remember this, the elf went on, you are going to a desert. It’s an empty and lonely world full of dangers and trials that you have never taken on before. Remember to be still and listen to Abdea. He will guide you through. And also make sure to drink plenty of water.

I’m only gone for a week, Stalana said with a laugh. Don’t worry. I’ll be careful.

Alright, just making sure, Twindleleaf replied. And don’t forget the scrolls.

I have them in my bag, the brunette informed as she showed him the satchel on her hip.

Good, the old elf said with a smile. Just be safe on your trip. See you soon.

Stalana hugged Twindleleaf and then her brother before walking off toward the ship.

She made it to the main deck when Commander Rhun approached her.

Everything is in order, Your Highness, he reported. The soldiers and supplies are all on board.

Have the soldiers gather around, she told him. I want to have a word with them.

Commander Rhun assembled the soldiers before the princess.

Listen to me, all of you, Stalana began. Our mission in Sudania is of great importance. Anything that goes wrong will make this pact all for naught. However, from this point on until we return to Elvorsta, you will refer to Commander Rhun as Ambassador Rhun. And while on Sudania, I will not go by Princess Stalana. You will all refer to me as Lady Staflana, the White Knight. It is essential that our identities are known that way for the sake of unification. Is that clear?

The soldiers agreed in unison.

Then let’s be off! Stalana commanded.

The soldiers dispersed, and Rhun began to give the orders for take-off.

Stalana, she heard Jess say behind her.

The princess turned around to her friend and maiden.

I feel queasy already, and we haven’t even taken off yet, the redhead said sickly.

Here, Stalana said as she pulled out something from her satchel. It was a bottle with round pills inside. Amethysia made these for you, knowing you were going on this trip. It’s to help you with your vertigo problem.

Amethysia is a blessin’! Jess replied. She popped one in her mouth. Mmmm! Tastes like chocolate!

Stalana smiled and then walked away toward the window. As she looked out, she spotted her brother, Twindleleaf, and the many citizens nearby waving goodbye. She waved back. Then, someone else caught her attention.

Her father stood, waving as well with a proud smile on his face.

She smiled brightly as she waved back to him. Then, the ship lifted off the ground and flew to the skies above.

[Chapter open graphic]

Chapter 3

A Royal Request

T wo days felt like two months on board the ship, and Stalana started to feel weary of the journey. She tried to read her book for a little while to help her pass the time. She had been really enjoying the romantic tragedy about King Tozalia and his queen and could not help but get caught up in it. When she was not reading, she was attending to business on the ship, making sure plans were going well.

Finally, an announcement was made.

We have reached Sudania’s orbit, the helmsman reported. We will be preparing to land in the docking station below.

Then, let’s get to it, Stalana told him. We want to rendezvous with Queen Esadora as soon as we can. We want to make it to the Harvest Festival in time.

The soldiers began the landing sequence. The ship shook as it collided with the planet’s atmosphere. Outside the window, she saw Sudania’s landscape of sand and drylands. It was truly barren if it were not for the glorious city below.

What is the name of that city? she asked Rhun, who stood next to her.

The city of Tazleen, he replied, the capital of Sudania. That is where we will meet our dear Queen Esadora and hope for a chance of peace and unity.

Are you certain that this will work? Stalana asked curiously. After all, they are a very bitter people.

So were the Setorians, but you managed to have them listen to you, Rhun reminded her. If you can do that, I’m sure these bitter people will listen well to the greatest mediator known to man.

You flatter me, commander, she said as she turned her head away to hide the blush forming in her cheeks.

They felt the ship gently land on the ground. Stalana looked back at Rhun, staring into his gentle violet eyes. He nodded without a word and led the princess to the bottom of the ship.

When they got down to the platform exit, the soldiers were in place and ready for them to come out. They exited the ship and stepped into the light of the blazing sun.

Stalana looked around but did not see any Sudanian citizens anywhere.

Where is everyone? Jess asked. Didn’t they know we were comin’?

They were expecting us to arrive soon, Rhun informed.

Yet, they are not here to greet us properly, Stalana pointed out curiously.

Are they late? Jess asked. I mean, how long does it take for some soldiers to arrive and escort us to the palace?

Suddenly, a group of men jumped out of nowhere with arrows and simitars flashing. They surrounded the Elvorstians and aimed their weapons at them.

Not long at all, Stalana thought disapprovingly.

Aww, not again! Jess said with a groan.

What is the meaning of this? Rhun declared in question.

Queen Esadora has been expecting you, one of the Sudanian soldiers announced. We’re here to escort you to your ‘quarters.’

I don’t like the way he said that, Jess whispered to Stalana.

Is this any way to treat the Ambassador of Astregasia? a soldier asked strictly. We agreed on meeting in peace.

"The queen will meet you on her terms, the lead soldier informed with a sneer. Arrest them!"

The Elvorstians held up their weapons to defend themselves as the Sudanians closed in.

Stalana was not expecting any