When The Gods Fail: Vindication

By R Lee Keen

Book three of the series finds Bryce Tyrell and his team thrown into the cauldron of war, trained yet untrained for what they are about to experience. From the onset of the mission, the team finds themselves alone – a planet, it seems, designed to kill them, an enemy doing everything it can to see them dead and the loyalties to the team of the civilization that threw them into this grinder questionable. War favors no one, especially the unprepared and Bryce will find out very quickly just how unprepared they are to engage in a war they know nothing about and had no part in starting.

But they will adapt and they will persevere, even as the war itself suddenly explodes into a frenzied maelstrom of battles and skirmishes between two combatants who will give no quarter and expect none in return. Bryce and his team will adapt and they will learn – finding out quickly who they think they can trust and learning the real enemy may not be the enemy you see every time. Meanwhile, others are drawn into the fray, their own lives becoming intertwined in the tapestry and pageantry of death, destruction and politics that were borne from a secret deep in the past none of them are aware of and one that might change the dynamics of everything everyone on the planet may think they understand.

A time of darkness approaches, desperation becomes the mantel many wear and fate may not be as kind as some would hope or as cruel as some might believe. If Bryce and the team are to survive this terrible ordeal, they will have to draw upon hidden reserves of strength, valor, and honor – reserves many of them never knew they possessed. But for one of the team, fate has determined a new course – a course from which she can never return. And the changes she will undergo may very well be the canvas of destruction that writes Bryce and team’s epitaph.

For those who survive everything they will encounter, there may come a time in the future where they might find peace. Or they may find fate has more in store for them and realize those who do not survive were perhaps the luckiest of all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: R Lee Keen
• Release date: Jun 30, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005687267

R Lee Keen

R. Lee Keen is an American novelist best known for technically detailed, fast-paced adventure novels flavored with science fiction, hard-hitting drama, unforeseen plot twists and intense military action. A distinguished, retired military officer whose career encompassed time spent in the intelligence, nuclear weapons and space operations fields, he also retired from work in State government where he provided expert testimony on a wide variety of subjects, including critical infrastructure protection and renewable energy. Now a Senior Advisor in the U.S. government, Mr. Keen is considered an expert in the energy and critical infrastructure arenas and a respected authority on physical and cybersecurity. Well traveled and an avid history buff, one of the hallmarks of his writing is the subtle blending of historical fact into the storylines.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

"This business will get out of control. It will get out of control and we'll be lucky to live through it."

Admiral Joshua Painter

The Hunt for Red October

*****

16 DECEMBUS 1133, 08.00 HOURS

THE FRONT LINES

The dense canopy of the jungle flew by beneath their feet, scarcely two meters below them, while the team sat on the edge of the cabin, feet resting on top of the skid and crew straps locked in place to ensure the nap-of-the-earth movements of the transport would not fling them from the craft.

Bryce absentmindedly watched the jungle slip by, catching glimpses of strange looking flying creatures and animals moving from treetop to treetop, some leaping while others seem to simply watch the strange craft as it whisked by them.

Everything was new, everything strange and his mind couldn’t capture all the images or even begin to process completely what he was seeing.

The flight of the craft was much smoother than even the VTOL craft he’d flown in hundreds of times on Earth – the large rotor fans not completely quiet, but not extraordinarily loud either. The craft seemed to glide in the heavy, humid air – almost as if it were slicing through waves of air rather than being reactive to the instabilities.

He missed flying.

To slide into the seat of an aircraft and feel the craft seem to mold itself to you as it took to the air – to be one with it as you soared through the hallways of air between the sunlit tops of clouds.

To feel the air as your craft moved through it, chasing the sun.

He missed flying.

Suddenly Bryce caught a good glimpse of a small herd of larger animals as they overflew one of the few and far between larger clearings.

They were large, though he couldn’t quite judge the size of them because of how fast they flew past, but he thought there had been about six or seven and he noticed right away only a couple had something like horns on the head.

The horns looked strange – he wasn’t sure but he thought they looked like a clump of daggers or sharpened sticks on top of the head.

He swore some were standing on their hind legs and using their front legs to pull the grass out to eat. One had looked up quickly as they passed and Bryce would swear the thing locked eyes with him.

He’d ask Antonia about everything later.

Right now wasn’t the time.

The craft seemed to pick up speed and Bryce continued to see life below him, but his mind now focused on the mission. They were near the drop zone and he began to concentrate – re-focusing all his energy onto the task.

The mission.

As the ground slid by, Bryce knew the team had everything stacked against them. They were nothing more than a group of thrown-together people from different cultures slammed through training and forced on a mission that was most likely nothing more than suicide by combat conveniently arranged by the princess.

With the exception of Pomponia, all of them had been condemned to death by the very culture that now claimed it was depended on their success for its very survival.

He looked down the line along his side of the cabin and then glanced over his shoulder at the rest.

Led by a himself and aided by a fallen and condemned princess, they would face an enemy most of them had no experience fighting to attack a hardened target they had little intelligence on after cutting short the training they needed to be successful.

Bryce had a sinking feeling none of them would survive.

Why would they.

This was designed to conveniently eliminate all of them quickly – Mari would get her wish.

Regardless of the words and sentiment she’d expressed to him and the team about surviving and being successful, Bryce knew deep inside the princess wasn’t being completely honest with him.

He was both a player as well as being played but he wasn’t expected to finish the game.

Before he could dwell on it any longer, his headset clicked. Coming up on the drop point, Colonel.

Bryce acknowledged the pilot’s warning. Copy.

The rest of the team heard as well and began to prepare to leave the ship.

Each clipped the ringed end of their rope into a retractable locking point attached to the floor next to them and held the coil of high-strength rope loosely in gloved hands.

Unconsciously, helmets were adjusted, weapons checked and harness straps tweaked and tightened just a bit more. Each pulled the large equipment bag behind them around, then clipped the end of a long strap to the ring on it. The other end of the strap was clipped to a device attached to the coiled rope.

After the rope was tossed, the bag would be pushed out. The device attaching it to the rope would put tension on the rope as the bag fell to the ground, preventing the bag from slamming into the ground while straightening the rope for each member to slide down, and offering a bit of tension to help in the descent.

The mission called for the transport to come to a sudden stop and hover exactly fifteen seconds over a very small clearing in the treetops at a specific location.

At sixteen seconds exactly, the pilot would fire a set of missiles as if he’d spotted a target on the Carillian side of the front lines, then depart on the same heading they were originally on for a period of time before turning on a different course and heading toward a base near the front lines.

With luck, Carillian air defense and monitoring systems would interpret the sudden stop and firing of the missiles as an opportunistic attack typical of Roman air operations and not the drop of a special operations team.

Any longer than a fifteen second delay in the zone could give the operation away.

Consequently, the pilot had strict orders to release the ropes at exactly sixteen seconds, whether a team member was still descending or not.

The transport skewed to a sudden stop.

Ropes were thrown out as safety harnesses were quickly disconnected, followed by the equipment bags and each team member began a rapid descent even before the bags hit the ground.

The pilot of Raven-15 watched through the bulbous side window as the team members from his side of the ship slid down the ropes.

The timer continued to work its way to zero – a little too fast in his estimation.

His finger held open the clear cover protecting the release button, hovering over it as the last few seconds ran off the timer and the buzzer sounded. Still the finger did not press the button until he was positive the team had all made it down.

A hand slapped his shoulder as his co-pilot signaled all the ropes on her side of the ship were slack and he pressed the button. A multitude of clicks signaled the release of all the rings and the pilot immediately targeted a large tree in the far distance and fired a salvo of four missiles as the ropes fell away from his ship.

It had been exactly eighteen seconds.

Without waiting to see the impact of his missiles, he swung the airship back onto their original course, a silent prayer on his lips for the team and success as the side doors on the ship slid to a close.

The ropes dropped to the ground, hissing in the air as they fell and coiling in loose bundles or falling like snakes near where the team members landed. The danger was not in the ropes themselves but the ring on the end of each as the rope came down.

To be hit by one would most likely be fatal.

No one was injured, however, and Bryce was glad they had practiced the stop-n-drop as it had come to be nicknamed by the team over and over until they were all sick of it.

A short while later, Raven One Five landed at the forward base, taxiing to a stop on the cleared grassy landing area.

The ground crew approached as the side doors opened and two black containers secured in the center of the crew cabin were quickly unloaded. There was some quick discussion about the trip and the pilot relayed his opportunistic attack on the supposed Carillian position without mentioning the team being dropped off.

Asked if he could take some crates back to the base, he nodded and several crates of material were loaded back onto the ship for the return trip. Once the aircraft was serviced, it taxied back out then left, returning to its home base without further incident.

The trip report failed to mention the release of any troops traveling to and from the base.

*****

16 DECEMBUS 1133, 08.05 HOURS

THE FRONT LINES

Quickly, Bryce and each member of his team gathered the black ropes, coiling them tightly and securing them to the back of each other’s packs.

Their gear bags, slung under them as they descended, were emptied of weapons, packs, radios and other equipment, then gathered, folded and stuffed under some thick shrubs. Once each member secured their assigned equipment, they gathered around Bryce.

Antonia, to his right, examined a map, comparing it to a small black unit attached to her forearm. As everyone made last minute adjustments to their gear, she checked the map and the readout on the small unit, then looked at Bryce and nodded.

OK, folks, Bryce spoke in normal tones, his helmet under his arm, then paused to get everyone’s attention. Antonia says we’re right where we want to be. Looks about five klicks from the lines and the river. Switch on the units.

Along with the rest of the team, Bryce flipped a small recessed switch on a unit identical to Antonia’s on his own arm and waited a moment while it warmed up. Multi-colored miniature lights cycled back and forth for a few seconds until the small screen finally illuminated, then, after a pattern became visible for several seconds, went black with the exception of two small icons.

OK, Bryce held out his arm with the unit attached. Everyone set to sync. He waited a moment after pushing both icons on his display. He looked at Antonia. Sync.

Moments later, the sync was accomplished and Bryce looked at his team.

Everyone has the map, He began. We’ve went over this a dozen times, but I’m saying it once more…if for any reason you get separated, you know where we’ll be. If you believe you may get captured, hit the ‘Purge’ button. He paused, flipping up the black cover to expose the bright red illuminated button. If you’re killed, the unit will automatically purge once it fails to detect a pulse.

Everyone nodded.

Questions?

Everyone shook their heads.

Not a sound was uttered.

Bryce nodded.

Sokolov, point, Bryce directed the young woman. Head on a swivel.

He looked at the Brit. Goodworth, comm to a minimum…snap bursts and I want to know anything you hear on the Carillian freqs immediately.

She nodded.

Bryce pointed to Sectilus. You’ve got tail.

The big Roman grinned, shifting his weapon ever so slightly.

We’ve got a lot of ground to cover, folks, Bryce lifted his own weapon and snapped it onto the tac-harness. Let’s move out.

With that simple command, the nine of them with the young Russian in the lead moved out of the small clearing and straight toward enemy lines.

Toward a future none could anticipate and some might never see.

*****

16 DECEMBUS 1133, 08.15 HOURS

OPERATIONS CENTER, PRIMUS PRAETORIUM

ROME, ROMAN EMPIRE

Status? Marcus asked.

In the small auxiliary operations center off the main operations floor, Marcus, Mari and General Gadiri watched the monitors and database, each adjusting settings and the data they were seeing from their individual consoles.

Marcia checked the incoming data.

They’ve arrived at the drop-off point. Team is out and Raven 15 is enroute to the base. She noted Doesn’t look like the Carillians are paying attention to our bird and I have good signal on the entire team. She paused. They’re still in the drop zone far as I can tell.

Mari stared at the holographic map of the landing zone and the surrounding land, silent. Moments later, she shook her head.

Why do I feel a terrible sense of darkness? The Princess asked no one in particular. It’s as if whatever we’ve done has already been for naught.

General Gadiri looked at both.

I hope you’re wrong. I’ve lost six of my best teams and over a dozen of my finest operatives trying to find this center, Marcia remarked as she shook her head. We know we have a spy telling the Carillians everything we do. For everyone we’ve lost and for the team we just dropped, I hope this time we’ve done something right.

Marcus looked at the map. Yet we don’t know if we’re already compromised or not.

No, Mari replied.

Damn! Marcus slammed his palm on the table.

Maybe the diversion teams will help. Mari offered. Maybe, just maybe, our little deception will give us enough of an edge this one time.

Explain. Marcus looked at them both.

Mari and I put a simple deception in motion, General Gadiri explained. We’ve kept all the teams following the routine rather than stand them down as originally planned. Additionally, we’ve continued to post the daily reports just as we’ve always done. In fact, She looked at a data pad. We have a team on the firing range right now. She paused. And we know only the trainers and planners know the Colonel and his team have departed.

How can we trust them? Marcus asked. The attack lends credence to the suspicion it’s one of them.

I can vouch for them, Mari spoke up. I haven’t been gentle or diplomatic, but I have verified each and every one of those who’ve attended the briefings and participated in the training are absolutely loyal.

I’ve also been verifying everyone as well, Gadiri agreed. We both felt if they expected myself or the Princess to be checking on everyone, they may not expect both of us to do it on each individual multiple times. I’m sure some haven’t appreciated the methods, but I think we can rule the staff, trainers and planners out.

Mari nodded in agreement.

I’ve also taken the liberty to ensure a brand new report on the status of the training has been inadvertently exposed by my aide to a select number of individuals, Gadiri continued. In it, I make some very candid observations that the team isn’t responding well and recommended to you both the mission be postponed because I believe it cannot succeed. She paused. The report has enough facts to support my recommendations that the team either continue to train or the mission be cancelled.

Has it got much attention? Marcus asked.

Gadiri nodded. He had some interesting ideas about getting it to the right spot to make the exposure work in our favor without appearing to be deliberate. She smiled. I’m betting you’ll have a few Senators and others chewing on your ear shortly. She frowned a fake frown. You probably already have a line of them waiting for you. I imagine you’ll be late getting home this evening.

Her frown turned to a pout.

Marcus looked at her and shook his head, a smile on his face.

What about Sandair? Mari asked. If he knows the report is a hoax…

Gadiri countenance turned immediately serious. He does know and he’s agreed to support it while he puts on a show to be even more of a pain in the ass than he normally is. He’ll wave it around as if he found out about it personally, She replied. He’ll keep his ears open and make enough trouble just to make sure there’s no suspicion on him.

Being more of an ass shouldn’t be too much of a problem for him, Mari replied in a low voice.

Young lady… Marcus chastised her. The Senator may be one of our only allies right now.

Still…it shouldn’t be hard for him. Mari replied simply.

Marcus looked at both of them, then, pointing to the map, looked at General Gadiri. What about the backup package we discussed?

Marcia nodded. I’ve put my two best teams on hot standby as of this morning to back up the Colonel if we need to. They’re men and women I know I can trust. No formal communications and no one outside the team knows. She paused a moment, looking at the map. They don’t even know the exact mission – only that they’re on standby waiting for a specific code word known only to me and isolated to the hanger along with their aircraft. Standard procedures for a standard backup mission of this nature. No one should get suspicious, Marcia stared at Marcus for a long moment, then spoke quietly. I intend to lead them if they go in.

No! Marcus exclaimed.

Gadiri looked directly at him and spoke very quietly once more, It’s not your decision, my love.

I will not allow it, Marcus repeated, anger building in him. I cannot allow it. I cannot allow…

The one you love to lead a mission into harm’s way? Marcia finished the sentence, interrupting him as she stared at him. In all the years we’ve been together, you’ve never once interfered with the way I’ve commanded, Marcia spoke very quietly and without emotion in her voice. Do not do so now. She looked at him, her eyes pleading. I beg you.

Marcus glowered at her, angry, yet knowing she was right.

Marcia did not back down, though her eyes pleaded with this man to not make this a wedge between them.

I’m sorry, He replied finally, softening his tone. I just don’t want to…

This is not about anyone or anything, my love. This is about me doing my job to save my people and this Empire. I trust every one of those standing by, but I intend to be there to make decisions that may very well affect the future. She paused, taking a breath. I promise you will not lose me, She interrupted him as he tried to speak, her hand reaching over to gently touch his. I promise that, my love.

You don’t understand…

Yes, I do, Marcia’s anger flared for a moment. I understand better than you know what you feel and why. But I can’t…I won’t change those feelings. She paused, taking a deep breath and letting her own anger subside. You will not lose me. I promise you that.

I just…

I know.

Marcus took a ragged, deep breath as he reigned in the host of emotions that always seem to linger below the surface – always there as if they would erupt at any moment in a public setting.

So many times with her, he had to fight those emotions and hold them in check simply to preserve an image.

It was getting harder and harder to do.

He stared at this woman he loved and, at that moment, made a decision he knew would affect more than his life.

It was a decision that would affect the entire Empire.

A decision that had been far too long in coming.

One that had delayed a future.

That delay would end – very, very soon.

Mari allowed the moment to linger for a second to give her father a chance to refocus before she spoke. As you know, the transport mission itself was designated as a special weapons drop to the front lines and the flight planned for almost two weeks. She paused to give her father a chance to focus. The weapons containers were both loaded as has always been done for this type of mission. She paused again. The mission has been listed in all reports as required and the reports were distributed to the different units and individuals as they normally are. She paused once more before continuing. However, what you don’t know is that Marcia and I personally adjusted each report slightly, either in wording or some other way, before the reports themselves were distributed by us. She set a data pad on the table. I have a copy of each report, where it went to and the acknowledgements we received from each unit and individual.

Gadiri continued. The manner in which the Carillians now respond will tell us where their information came from.

Marcus seemed surprised. Are the reports that different?

Mari nodded. Just enough for us to discern each. The Carillian response will narrow down our list of suspects considerably.

Marcus nodded, still a bit angry at Marcia for her decision to go into battle. Clever. That way, we know exactly where the Carillians are getting their information from. He looked at the data pad. And you are the only one who knew this?

Mari nodded.

The General nodded. If we don’t know exactly who, we’ll at least know the source of the information.

Was the Colonel part of what you did?

No, Mari shook her head. Not because we couldn’t trust him, but because I wanted everything to proceed as it normally would for a mission like this. She paused a moment before continuing. That’s why I had the containers loaded first by the normal ground crew as is always done for special weapons loads. They were dismissed per standard procedure and then the team put on board without any ground crew present just before the doors were opened. She paused. And that’s why we were gone when the doors opened.

Marcus smiled. In case of prying eyes.

Both Gadiri and Mari nodded.

You both knew. Marcus looked at Gadiri. You helped each other in this deceit.

Both nodded.

And you’ve kept it from me?

Both nodded again.

Is there more? Marcus asked.

The two women looked at each other, then General Gadiri spoke. I have a second team that has been working toward the crossing at Point Beta. She pointed to the map. They’ll cross at the same time as the Colonel’s team crosses here.

Why? Asked Marcus.

As we told you, the Carillian response will tell us much. Gadiri responded.

Is this a trap? Marcus asked, touching Point Beta.

We hope so. Mari replied.

We deliberately sacrifice Roman lives? Marcus asked.

No, Gadiri responded. The team at Beta is aware there’s a trap expected at the crossing. They’re anticipating the battle and I think we can not only defeat the Carillians, but spring a small trap of our own.

I don’t understand. Marcus shook his head.

Mari slid a data pad over. It’s all here.

He read the information on the data pad for several moments, then set it down. This will work? He asked.

Both women nodded.

Perhaps, Marcus smiled, his anger gone and the emotions once again under control. I should keep better track of two women in my life.

Marcia offered a coy smile, her eyes warm and loving. Do you really believe it would do you any good to try?

Or that you could if you did try? Mari added, a sly grin on her face.

Marcus laughed. No. He gazed at Marcia, warmth in his eyes as well. No, it wouldn’t.

She smiled back.

*****

16 DECEMBUS 1133, 08.15 HOURS

THE FORUM

ROME, ROMAN EMPIRE

Tatiana relaxed as she sat on the stone bench in the shade of a small tree, watching the people move around the great square the Romans called the Forum.

She wanted desperately to shift her shape and become just another face.

It was something she realized she could do but had practiced very little up to this point.

It was painful and took so much energy out of her right now.

But now she understood…understood so much more about them.

And how they were who they were.

To take her mind off the idea, she gazed at the wonders surrounding her.

Around her were impressive and stunningly beautiful temples to the great Gods and Goddesses of Rome, each magnificent in their own right but all designed, like the Forum itself, to focus the eyes on the building housing the Senate in all its glory.

Each building on the Forum was built in what she had always considered the classic Roman style – brilliant, white, temple-style buildings with colonnaded fronts capped by porticos engraved with Latin and topped by multitudes of intricately carved statutes of men, women, beasts and other images. Flights of stairs took visitors and others from the Forum up and into each building, every door flanked by at least two Guards and all of them dressed in the ceremonial uniform of a Centurion from what she had grown up understanding as ancient Rome.

It gave the individual standing in the Forum a feel of the age and history that surrounded them, as if the ancient buildings themselves could speak. Yet, she knew the buildings, while ancient on the exterior, were filled with modern conveniences and technology inside.

The Forum itself was magnificent by any measure, covered in tiles made of a stone that looked like white marble broken by irregular black lines. Shrubbery, flowers and grassy areas lined the Forum edges, surrounding the buildings and adding color to the white stone exteriors of each building, the fragrances pleasant in the mild breeze.

Small trees like the one she sat under stood interspersed in the grassy areas and along the sides of each building, offering shade from the sun, while fountains, evenly spaced around the Forum with a huge circular one in the center, flowed with water, the gurgling sound of flowing and falling water simply adding to the sounds surrounding her.

For a moment, Tatiana gazed at the center fountain, filled with multitudes of smaller statutes of nude men and women in graphic detail and various poses along the sides book-ending benches to sit on. In the middle stood a great pure white stone statute of a male god, his arm outstretched toward the Senate, a hand holding a spear pointing accusingly at the building. A stern look covered his face, his furrowed countenance staring unceasingly at the building and all who entered or left it.

Beside him sat a nude female clinging to his leg yet with the same stern countenance aimed at all who left the building.

No robe covered his or her naked body as both sat or stood in all their masculine or feminine and very muscular glory. Under the other arm of the man, he held a large vase tipped down, water flowing down and across the ample chest of the woman before it tumbled off her form to fill the great pool beneath him.

A culture still fascinated with the body and sex, she decided. It was, she thought, as if the Empire had moved into the future but couldn’t let go of its sordid and vulgar past.

Stupid people, she thought, a smile on her face.

They worship Gods and Goddesses that do not exist with the idea their worship can somehow save them from fate or change the direction of their pitiful lives.

They understood nothing, she decided with contempt written all over her face. And that included the fact that she and she alone would become the very fate that would ultimately decide the future of their miserable lives.

In time.

Rome in all its glory, she thought as she shook her head. In with the new, yet clinging to the old.

As she sat watching all around her, she suddenly felt Bryce.

He was on the ground now, but she had no clear image in her mind of exactly where he was or what he was doing.

All she could sense was that he was alive and uninjured…and focused.

Focused on the mission.

She sensed his determination – that same determination to finish the mission that had carried his through so many challenges in his life before.

It was the Bryce she knew and loved.

She could also sense Antonia.

She was there, standing beside him.

Her eyes began to glow as the anger unconsciously rose in her and she lowered her head, lest someone see.

Tatiana was torn, her emotions raw – in her heart, she knew Bryce loved her.

She had been in his mind enough, even though Antonia had thwarted most of her efforts, to know his love for her was true. He still adored her and continued to believe, once he returned, they would have the life they had planned together.

She also knew he found Antonia attractive and enjoyed her company, but not once did she feel him desire Antonia over her. Rather than fight what was done to her, Antonia had accepted her position as Bryce’s slave and that infuriated Tatiana even more.

What increased her anger and deepened her hatred to levels even she could not fathom was also knowing Antonia harbored feelings for Bryce – she didn’t need to blend with the bitch to know they were deep, sincere and permanent.

It was written all over her face and in her actions.

And, if Tatiana were to ever have the life she wanted with Bryce, Antonia was a genuine problem.

It felt strange.

She realized as she sat there she was at a crossroads.

If she went down one path, Tatiana could see a future with Bryce, regardless of what was happening to her. On that path, her heart was still his and she loved him with every fiber in her. She could see them living, even in this place, a happy, healthy and long life. She felt she could manage what had changed her and make it work for them.

It was a pathway of promise and new beginnings.

But she could feel the changes affecting her…that path becoming foggy…murky.

The second path was a path of power – she could feel the power growing in her and it was so intoxicating.

Her body wasn’t growing old anymore – she could feel it – and she could do things no human could ever dream of doing.

In fact, she was getting young.

And she could stop the aging or youth at any point. Start it again if she chose to. Then stop it again.

The second path was a path of immortality – she could become anything…anyone…she wanted to be.

But it was a path that would cause her to lose herself – she wondered how long it would take before she couldn’t control what was happening to her. And when that happened, would she become something she could understand or live with.

Someone or something that couldn’t live with or love Bryce.

A tear escaped her eye as the emotions ran rampant through her.

All she wanted at this moment was a future with Bryce.

Yet the dark one kept telling her the future that fate had designed for her was not one she would share with Bryce. He told her she was destined to become something that would change worlds – someone who would change the future if she decided to do so.

Tatiana had to admit the idea of being that powerful, like the energy flowing through and changing her, was exhilarating – a drug like no other.

But it still bothered her that she still had no clue who or what the dark one was.

Covered in his outfit of black, he simply told her time and time again all would be made clear once she was transformed. And he insisted, almost to the point of irritating her, that Bryce was not her future and would abandon her for Antonia.

She held out her hand as the anger in her subsided, watching as the slight blue glow surrounding her fingers slowly coalesced into a small blue ball of energy about the size of a large marble.

The changes were painful and the latest had been so painful she wasn’t sure she was going to survive it while it occurred.

Pain racked her body in violent spasms and it seemed every nerve was being burned, pinched or somehow antagonized all at once. She wanted to pass out but the transformation prevented it.

She wanted to scream but nothing came from her throat.

She couldn’t move or even close her eyes as she hung in the middle of the room, twitching and spasming uncontrollably while blue, violet, white and red light washed over her in waves.

At one point she prayed for death…that she would mercifully die and be done with the pain once and for all.

But she didn’t die.

She finished the phase and, once she recovered – hours later – from the agony and sheer exhaustion, she felt something flow through her much more different than anything which had happened before.

A smile crossed her face.

When she first began this new journey, she watched him tease her by gathering the energy in the air around them into a small ball of glowing blue energy the size of a golf ball in the palm of his hand. He allowed it to float between them in the darkness on the deck and she watched it dance, at first slow and gently, then in jerky, dramatic movements. Suddenly, he stopped the little ball, then allowed it to dissipate back to where it had come from.

Fascinated, she asked how he did it and he replied one day she might be able to do it herself but it would take time, concentration and much more transforming.

His answer was condescending, and it irritated her.

The ball of energy in her hand dissipated, then suddenly reappeared, changed shape into a perfectly shaped tiny cube, then into a donut shaped figure before, very slowly, dissipating into the air as if it never existed.

Obviously, he didn’t know just what she really was capable of.

And she had no intention of allowing him to learn.

She could now adeptly block his efforts to blend with her if she chose to do so, yet found she could blend with him seemingly without his knowledge.

He loved her.

Silly creature.

He had no clue what loving her would mean.

Only one man in her life other than her father had ever taken the time to understand her and what loving her entailed – Bryce understood what loving her had meant before this transformation and she was sure Bryce would know how to love her now.

On the other hand, this thing…this being dressed all in black…did not understand what love really was.

He was infatuated with her and he lusted for her, no matter what he told her.

He desperately wanted her to offer herself to him.

She never intended to give him that chance.

Yet she still couldn’t define who he was or even what he looked like – it was as if he had the ability to block her from finding out that bit of information no matter what she tried.

Tatiana’s mind whirled in confusion.

She loved Bryce.

But she knew she could not remain here any longer.

No matter what she felt for Bryce.

Rome was not home.

It wasn’t Antonia.

Nor was it that damn Princess who had pushed Antonia into her life.

It wasn’t even Rome.

She looked around.

She’d actually come to like Rome…perhaps even love the feel of this city.

There was something about everything surrounding her that appealed to her. She was learning the language, though she wasn’t sure if it was her learning it naturally or the transformation having something to do with it.

Regardless of all that had happened, Tatiana felt she could have been happy as a citizen of Rome if nothing had happened to her except the crash.

Not now.

It was simply the fact she was becoming more powerful than even he realized and Rome was not the place she could make her home. Even if she tried, someone or something would be her undoing and once they found out what she was becoming, there would be no respite for her.

No, Rome was simply the place she existed…for now.

A small child came up to her.

Are you her? She asked in a small voice, her blue eyes wide in wonder.

Am I who? Tatiana smiled at the little one, her flesh, countenance and eyes taking on the warmth of a loving mother.

I’ve seen your picture. You’re one of them – you came out of the sky. The little girl persisted in her question. You’re so beautiful, you have to be her.

I’m so sorry she’s bothering you, A young woman came up to her. Livia, what are you doing?

It’s her, mommy, Livia pointed to Tatiana. She’s one of them.

Oh my, The young woman took a step back, recognition in her eyes. Oh my, you are. You’re Tat…Tati…

Tatiana, Tatiana offered, still smiling. It’s a pleasure to meet you.

The lady blushed. It’s a pleasure to meet you, too. She tugged at Livia’s arm. I’m so terribly sorry she bothered you. She repeated as Tatiana nodded. She’s been fascinated ever since we saw you on the first vidcast, The woman stared at her. I’m so sorry for how you were treated. We’re not barbarians, even though we sometimes act that way. I hope you can forgive us.

Tatiana shook her head. There’s nothing to forgive.

Still, The woman stared at her for a moment, then took the little girl by the arm and gently pulled her away. Livia, we need to be going.

The little girl continued to stare at Tatiana as they walked away and Tatiana waved to her. Bye. Take care.

As the girl turned to walk with her mom, once again the anger rose in Tatiana and she lowered her head, trying hard to control it.

That little girl – so young and fresh and beautiful – represented all she had ever wanted with Bryce and all she would never have. The glow intensified more than it ever had as she felt the anger grow and flow through her.

All she wanted was Bryce in her life; she wanted to bear his children and grow old with him.

That was the future they had planned – the future they had promised each other.

And now she had nothing.

That wasn’t true, she reminded herself.

She had much, much more now.

But she didn’t have him.

The being took it from her. For whatever reason, he stole the future she wanted.

And yet he gave her so much.

Whatever future she planned with Bryce would not…could not be the future she would have now, no matter how badly she wanted it.

And yet.

Immortality.

She smiled as the conflicting emotions raced through her and the glow in her eyes lessened.

The energy that flowed through her now was amazing.

It was a feeling she would never…could never give up now that she had felt it coursing through her veins. Her body was rejuvenated, and she felt she could do almost anything.

She saw the world with a clarity she never possessed before and the very thought of surrendering that – even for a man such as Bryce Tyrell – was unfathomable.

And not just one world.

Any world could be hers to examine and explore.

She wasn’t even sure what limits her powers may have. Could she do all he could do or would she evolve into something even more?

She knew this new future he spoke of lay before her if she would simply accept and embrace it.

He wanted her to stand by him – stand with him as he conquered and destroyed worlds.

As he ruled entire solar systems.

And she decided she would.

She would stand by his side until the transformation was complete – whether he completed it or she completed the process herself.

But she also knew what she now wanted was not what he desired.

Contemplating the grass beneath her bare feet and seeing the individual blades in vivid detail, she suddenly wondered if she really needed him any longer.

She asked herself as she watched a tiny insect crawl slowly through the forest of blades – was she actually capable of completing the transformation without his help?

No, not yet, she decided.

No, she still needed him.

Then she laughed quietly to herself.

She may still need him, but not in the way he wanted her to need him.

But that would end soon enough.

She would have to be patient, be quiet and follow his lead – if only for a short time.

Soon enough though, she thought.

Soon enough she knew she would have the power to alter her own genetic design.

And it did not frighten her.

She would not become some monster or creature too hideous to be seen. Nor would she become something too abhorrent to exist among people.

No, Tatiana thought. When she could finally do that tiny thing, Tatiana would decide who she was, who she would be and what she would become.

But she wasn’t there…not yet…almost…but not yet.

She would be patient and complete the transformation but she had no intention of ruling worlds and systems with him or by his side.

Anger flared in her again, rising just as fast as it subsided.

Did he think only he could rule?

Did he actually believe she would sit like some dress-up doll by his side, awe-struck and waiting for a handout from him, as he decided the fates of worlds?

Was he so convinced only he could wage war?

Or conquer worlds?

One thing in her mind became crystal clear above everything else, even above the anger burning inside her blood.

If she couldn’t have Bryce standing by her, what need did she have for any male?

Or anyone for that matter?

Tatiana smiled as she rose, her thoughts coalescing from anger into a plan.

Only once in her lifetime did she decide to let fate control her future. She had stepped back and simply let things happen.

And that one time had given her Bryce.

But it had also put her here.

Only one time.

That was the last time.

*****

29th DAGR OF THE GORMANOUR

ASGARDIAN MOON

It’s begun, Erik Hrolleifsen said simply and quietly to the gathered group. We no longer control our fate; whatever happens now, we’re committed to this path and whatever it will bear for us.

All around the table except two had been with him from the beginning and each nodded or expressed silent agreement, yet some stole nervous glances at the ones who now joined them.

Hrolleif and Frikka sat among them as if the two had always been part of the group though both understood the nervousness of those who had followed their son for so many years.

When the two had suddenly appeared before the group, flanked by the great wolves Geri and Freki, Bothar and Dreng immediately stepped back, hands on the pommels of their weapons as they prepared for battle under the belief more of the king’s men would follow or that the two great wolves would pounce.

Others, like Sigyn, Skule, and Arndis, took their lead from Jorunn, who remained calm, though she, herself, was unaware the two were to be with them for this gathering.

After some tense moments and once the initial shock of their appearance had been overcome, Erik was immediately assaulted with questions from his team why he had not forewarned them of the coming of the king and queen.

It was Hrolleif who put everything into perspective as the group pelted his son with questions while staring at the two of them.

Neither Erik nor Jorunn knew of our coming, Hrolleif explained. Nor were they aware we wanted to be here. He paused, looking around at each of them. We were not aware of this gathering and we’ll leave if that’s what you desire.

You are here, Bothar demanded angrily, still suspicious. Why?

Frikka was about to chastise the man for speaking to her husband in such a manner, but Hrolleif placed a hand on her arm, then looked at Bothar.

I don’t blame you, Bothar, He offered, smiling as he spoke softly. We haven’t earned your trust. He paused, looking down for a moment then directly at the man. Regardless of what’s happened in the past, much has changed and you’re as much a part of us as you always have been.

Words. You exiled us for what we believe, Still defiant, Bothar shook his head, hand remaining on the pommel. What if we decide not to be part of you?

That’s enough, my love, Arndis stared at her mate. You will respect our king, whether we are exiled or not. We are still part of them. She turned her gaze to Hrolleif and bowed her head. Please forgive him, my Liege. We have faced so much in this journey and we sometimes forget our manners. He does not mean disrespect, I promise. Suddenly, she looked up at the king. But like Jorunn, I’m tired of being an exile. She looked around, then at her mate. I want to start my family with my chosen and I can’t do that yet. Staring at Erik, she nodded. I can’t take that chance because I swore my allegiance to you and we have one task left before us. Until that task is done, I stand by you as I always have and as I swore long ago I would. Finish this and we may find our futures.

Bothar grumbled but said nothing more as Hrolleif smiled and nodded, the incident forgiven and forgotten.

That’s why we are here, Frikka offered. We share the need to finish this one last task. She looked at each of them. Please allow us to be part of you and help in any way we can.

We had an agreement, Erik said simply, staring at both of them.

And we still abide by that agreement, Hrolleif acknowledged. We did not come to and we will not interfere nor will we do anything unless you request it. We will not speak of what we learn here and we will not reveal to anyone where we are. He touched the hand of Frikka. My son, we are not here as your king or queen, Hrolleif paused then sent a shock wave through them all. We have come here to serve you, my son, as part of your team if you will have us.

We told our son and we now tell each of you, Frikka looked at them. We do not hunt you and there are no jackals outside your doors. In truth, I…we only want you back with us. Suddenly, her gaze became as icy as the north wind. But we all must agree there is a single task which must be completed first or we can never have the peace we all desire. If my husband and I can help, then serving my son is the greatest thing I can do as a queen.

It was Skule’s mate, Kristin, who broke the tension.

She poured two mugs of ale, then walked to the two and offered them.

As Hrolleif and Frikka accepted the mugs, Kristin stepped back to the table and pulled two chairs next to her out.

Please, I ask you sit next to me, She offered, bowing her head.

The others, including Erik, all bowed their heads and moved back to the table, each standing until Hrolleif and Frikka joined them, the great wolves staying back just enough to watch all that went on before them.

Hrolleif held his mug aloft, patiently waiting until each had taken up a mug and held it aloft as well.

To those who are here and those who have fallen. Hrolleif offered. We honor them as they wait for us in the halls of Valhalla.

The toast was honored and all sat once the king and queen were seated.

Erik looked to his father and Hrolleif immediately held up a hand. I’m not here to speak. We’re here to listen and learn. My wife and I make no judgements, but we offer whatever the kingdom may have to finish this business.

Erik nodded and the discussion began.

Later, as the group finished, Erik briefed them on the Roman operation against the Carillians.

I believe this will not end without the defeat of one or the other. Erik stated, concluding his observations and remarks.

Bothar looked at the king.

You’ve said nothing the whole time. Bothar observed.

Hrolleif nodded. There’s nothing to say, He smiled. But perhaps it is time I offer something. Pausing while he stood, the elderly king gazed around the table. Long ago, I personally selected each of you to guard a young boy the same age as all of you – a boy who would grow to become my successor. He sipped his ale, reflective for a moment. Over the years, I’ve watched each of you grow into handsome young men and beautiful young women, Hrolleif paused. More importantly, I’ve watched each of you become the finest warriors we’ve ever created. He looked at Erik, then around the table again. You each swore your allegiance to him and you serve him still, even though you were banished because of the beliefs he holds, whether they’re yours or not.

Hrolleif paused for a long moment, collecting his thoughts as he took a deep breath. I came to listen and I will serve both him and you in this task however I can, He offered, stepping back from the table and offering his hand to his wife. For now, we will leave and you can decide how best we may serve this group.

And when it’s done? Asked Dreng.

Hrolleif took a deep breath. I swore to my son and I swear to each of you, He began. I will ask no more of you. Even now, if you choose, you are welcomed back. There is nothing to forgive and all will be forgotten. The dead must be honored. He paused, looking at each of them. This I swear to each of you as your king.

Without a word, each of them, including Erik, stood and then dropped to one knee, bowing their heads.

When they looked up, the king and queen, along with the wolves, were gone.

Each stood and it was Dreng who broke the silence. I must ask, Erik, have you told us everything?

No. Erik replied.

A hush fell over the room – a quiet so complete, it could compete with the silence of the deepest tombs.

This man they all swore to protect with their very lives had sworn an oath to them long ago he would never lie nor would he hold back even the smallest bits of information from them.

To now find out that may not have been true was like a second bombshell exploding in their midst.

Don’t you think you should? Asked Kristin very quietly.

Erik motioned them back to the table. Most sat back down with the exception of Dreng, Bothar and Jorunn.

There is a thing I have not confided to any of you, Erik began, emotions running across his face. It was not because I felt you should not know nor was it to ever deceive or create issue. He struggled with the words. This one thing I learned from my own father when I visited the Council has completely altered the very reason we first embarked on this journey. He paused. It has altered many of the things I thought were unalterable.

I grow tired of speeches by everyone. Bothar grew angry. What is this one thing you speak of?

We seek the one called the Thorkal, Erik began. Thus far, we have…

Bothar interrupted him. I told you, I grow tired of speeches, He stared at Arndis. And no, I will not be silent. He stared at Erik. I have followed you since we were children and I have fought with you. I have bled for you and with you. Tears came to the man’s eyes. I consider you my brother and I will die for you.

Bothar couldn’t speak anymore, but Dreng carried it forward. As have we all, He began. Now, after so many years, we find you broke your own word to us. He looked around the room then directly at Erik. If you want me to follow you, then tell me what is so great as to cause you this much anguish and keep secrets from the rest of us.

The Thorkal is one of us, Erik spoke simply. He is blood to one of us in this room.

NO! Roared Bothar. That cannot be so!

What are you saying? Arndis stood, anger in her voice. You tell us one of us has a blood relation who kills their very own?

Yes. Erik replied in a low voice.

Dreng pounded his fist onto the great wooden table. Whoever it is, they are not one of us. If they choose to kill their own kind, it does not change anything among us.

The others agreed, anger and loathing in their voices, as each continued to denounce and condemn the Thorkal.

Finally, as the anger and tempest calmed ever so slightly, Sigyn spoke, looking at Erik, Whose blood does the Thorkal carry in his veins? Which of us must bear this new burden?

Erik, who had been silent and staring at the table while the others blasphemed and condemned the Thorkal, slowly looked up, tears streaming from his eyes.

Mine, He said silently. I must kill Arnthor Hrolleifsen…I must kill my brother.

*****

6th DAY OF THE SIXTH CYCLE OF NIVEN

SURVEILLANCE CENTER

KEWAUNAK, CARILLIAN EMPIRE

As she stood just inside the doorway of the conference room, Kolskreg stared at the woman, then motioned the guards to release her from her bindings.

They hesitated and he roared at them to move quicker, demanding to know why she was brought to him shackled in the first place.

Moments later, the shackles removed, Kolskreg angrily waved them from the room.

None hesitated this time, leaving her standing alone by the door.

Unfettered and making no move, she alternately stared at him, then at the Graul sitting on the far end of the conference table. Kolskreg remained visibly irritated at the actions of the guards while the Graul made no move nor showed any emotion whatsoever.

Except to stare at her.

The large room was empty except for the three of them and she felt a slight chill in the air.

The beast simply continued to stare at her.

In anger…Contempt…Loathing…Hatred.

She couldn’t tell.

It simply stared.

Once the guards were gone and the door closed, Kolskreg motioned her toward the conference table where a decanter of peach-colored liquid and several glasses sat. As she approached, he poured the liquid into three glasses then offered her one and then the Graul, but the beast simply shook its great head and resumed staring at her.

Since it was you who asked to see me, I assume you’ve made a decision, Kolskreg asked, taking a sip of the cold liquid. I hope I’m not premature in removing the shackles.

She nodded, taking a sip. I accept your offer, but I have three conditions.

Kolskreg stared at her, his ears laid back slightly, then laughed. You actually believe you can levy conditions?

She stared back. Yes.

The Carillian stared for a moment at the Graul then back at her as he took another sip. What conditions?

Claudia Decidiana, once a proud Centurion and Commander of the First Cohort of the Fourteenth Legion, set her drink down. Without hesitation, she took a step forward and placed her hands on the table in front of her, facing the Graul, then staring at the Carillian standing to her left.

First, I will command your army but only on the condition I am never required to fight against a Roman unit or units allied with Roman forces, She began. Second, any and all remaining Romans you have as captives are to be set free at the border unharmed. They are to be given enough food and water to enable them to seek out Roman assistance, She paused. Finally, the Romans you set free are to be told I died in the arena, She paused. My family should not be disgraced by my traitorous decisions and actions. By accepting your offer, I am, in fact, dead.

Kolskreg was silent for several moments, studying her as she stood staring back at him. Fine. The conditions are simple enough. Agreed.

She stood at attention and nodded her head. I serve you, my Liege.

See, He smiled at her. I am not the animal your leaders claim I am.

She simply nodded as he motioned her to the map on the table. Once you have explained Roman tactics to us, I want you to take over the armies engaged with the Benerians. He tapped the location. The effort is stalled and I want you to get it moving again. Whatever it takes. He turned to her. Do you understand, General?

She nodded. Understood.

Kolskreg nodded to the Graul at the table. You will report to General Kraal. Go for now. We’ll speak later once you’ve had time to adjust to your new position. He turned Guards!

Two immediately entered the room and he issued his command. Escort the General to her new quarters and see she is immediately given all she needs to make her comfortable. He stared at her for a moment then continued. Prepare any and all Romans, including those injured or sick, we still hold captive to be set free at the border. Give them clean clothing and full meals. I want them assembled to leave for the border in the morning. He paused as if contemplating something then looked at the map briefly before pointing to a spot away from the current conflict but along the border with Rome. Ensure they are transported safely to this location. It’s away from the fighting and it may take them some time to get back to their lines, but they have a better chance of not being fired on. Enough food, water and supplies to make the journey to their lines. But no weapons. Kolskreg looked at her. Do you agree?

She nodded, a smile of relief visible on her face. Thank you.

I told you, He smiled. I am not the cruel barbarian your rulers make me out to be.

She nodded once more and left immediately with the guards.

As the door closed, Kolskreg turned to General Kraal. I told you the Roman would agree to our terms.

Kraal shook his massive head. I still do not trust her.

Should I trust you?

Kraal stared at him. Why would you not trust me?

Kolskreg raised his glass to the Graul. You’re a conquered race just as the Romans soon will be and yet you’ve risen to become one of my trusted Generals.

The Graul simply shook his head.

Perhaps she will be as great as you? Kolskreg asked in mock seriousness.

I doubt it. Replied the Graul, unamused.

It doesn’t matter. Kolskreg replied, setting his glass down. When you’ve released the Romans at the border, allow them to cross then kill them.

Kraal stared at him. Why wait until they cross the border?

Kolskreg seemed shocked. Why, General, I gave my word they would be escorted to the border and set free.

Kraal snarled. You gave your word to a Roman.

No, General Kraal, Kolskreg shook his head. "I gave my