Phoenix Rising: Andromeda’s Prince

By Alvin Council

Admiral K’torr struggles with his new life and title of ‘Prince.’ He helped Princess A’duna complete her mission on Earth and married to the emperor’s daughters.
As the Emperor tries to help the new Prince acclimate, he challenges Prince K’torr to a competition. K’torr has to enter into orbit of Mintaka Prime within one week while evading, capturing, or destroying 41 ships in a wargame. But the stakes are higher than any of them realize.
Even as he tries to find some moments of peace, Prince K’torr can find no rest. His memories of the last year begin to resurface, which concern his wives. As he struggles to reintegrate the events of the previous year, he is personally attacked and incapacitated. His recovery comes with grave news that his mother has fallen ill.
This is a story of Prince K’torr’s acceptance of his new role in life with the Empire.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Sep 7, 2021
• ISBN: 9781664187184

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Copyright © 2021 by Alvin Council.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted

in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,

recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system,

without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the

product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance

to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 07/24/2021

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CONTENTS

Chapter 1     M’larr’s Challenge

Chapter 2     Retake the ARTEMIS

Chapter 3     Resurfacing Memories

Chapter 4     Return to the Palace

Chapter 5     ANDROMEDA’s First Jump

Chapter 6     Union of crews

Chapter 7     K’torr’s defeat

Chapter 8     Meeting K’torr

Chapter 9     Prince K’torr

Chapter 10   New Aide Selection

Chapter 11   Alec’s Return Home

Chapter 12   K’torr’s Fury

Chapter 13   Princess and Captain

Chapter 14   New Captains

Chapter 15   Assault of K’torr

Chapter 16   ANDROMEDA Crippled

Chapter 17   Enter Jasmina

Chapter 18   The Secret’s Out

Chapter 19   Erin’s Passing

Chapter 20   The Final Jump

Chapter 21   Recovery

Chapter 22   Change of Command

Chapter 23   Memorial Service

Chapter 24   The Tour

Chapter 25   M’rina and the Party

Chapter 26   Jasmina’s Trial

Chapter 27   Remembering a Friend

CHAPTER 1

M’larr’s Challenge

The command carriers, ANDROMEDA, ARTEMIS and PHOENIX, were traveling in a spearhead formation to Mintaka Prime. The ARTEMIS led the way with the ANDROMEDA on her starboard side and PHOENIX to port. They had departed Earth and been traveling for almost four weeks. Each ship was white with no discernable signs of weapons, or any intake, exhaust or access ports, except the four main engines. The ships measured approximately a mile in length with an almond-shaped hull design and a flattened bottom. The upper half of the ships had identifiable viewing ports. Each ship’s identification marking was displayed on the forward end of the upper hull. The dark grey lettering was specially illuminated so the ship’s name could be easily read.

One of the three ships stood out from the rest. She had black markings across a quarter of her hull. None of the markings were of an artistic design. Two of the black marks were larger than a cargo shuttle. Each marking was a scorch mark and repaired battle damage from the numerous battles that she had fought in the last year. Her battle scars were seen as a testament to her crew and told the stories of her gallant crew’s heroism and sacrifices. The gold-colored trim around each letter of this ship’s name made her stand out and read ANDROMEDA.

Now, as the three ships made the voyage to Mintaka Prime for the first time, each ship ran daily drills to increase their proficiency on this new ship design. But a combination of boredom and excitement had set-in in anticipation for their return home.

For most of the occupants of these three great ships, they were returning home after more than ten years in the Sol system. But for a handful of those making this journey, it would be their first time to Mintaka Prime. For Admiral K’torr and his children, this would be the first of many such journeys. His oldest two sons, Alvin and Konnor, traveled with him and helped to care for their new infant brothers and sisters, two sets of twins. For K’torr, it was the first time in a while that he was just relaxing. Emperor M’larr and Princess A’duna were trying to ease two of the three newlyweds into their new roles, in particular Admiral K’torr and Captain C’sila. Prince K’torr and Princess C’sila had lived their entire lives as military officers, not royalty. This was a big change for them.

The Council Meetings had changed from formal updates to Council Dinners with the Emperor aboard his new flagship, the ARTEMIS. For Emperor M’larr, it was more of a way to acclimate Prince K’torr and Princess C’sila, making them more comfortable with their new roles in the empire and life. Everyone was expected to dress in formal attire for the meetings as a way to refamiliarize them with the protocol and decorum. However, Admiral K’torr and Captain C’sila were expected to dress as a Prince and Princess for all events aboard the ARTEMIS or with Emperor M’larr. K’torr and C’sila wanted to be addressed by their military rank vice as royalty. Nothing annoyed K’torr more than to be addressed as Prince.

So, Prince K’torr, you believe that you are superior to all of my Admirals because you have not met them and have not lost a battle, yet, Emperor M’larr taunted Prince K’torr as they dined. He had been trying to bait K’torr into a competition for almost a week without success. Emperor M’larr was almost as tall as Prince K’torr when they stood side by side. But the Emperor’s blue skin was a shade darker than his daughters, A’duna and C’sila. The tunic he wore was like a suit jacket that extended to his ankles. It was white with a thick gold trim, standard attire for the palace. Emperor M’larr opted to wear his crown to help reacquaint his daughter’s fleet with protocol before reaching the home world.

No, Emperor. I must disagree with you. I have battled and lost. I lost men and women, sisters, brothers, sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, husbands and wives. Each of those souls is a battle that I lost. Those men and women have a name, face, family, and a story, Prince K’torr said cryptically, lowering his head with a feeling of regret and remorse. As K’torr gazed around the table, he could see that everyone had heard him stress that ‘I’ lost vice ‘we.’ K’torr was referring to the people that were no longer with him. He knew each man and woman that had lost their life and that loss stung as much now as the day their lives were cut short. But yes, Emperor. I have reviewed the records of your Admirals. I believe my team could defeat any of them in combat. The record of accomplishments and the battles that my people have fought speaks volumes to their level of training, proficiency, and effectiveness, K’torr lauded his Fleet’s record. I see nothing impressive in any of your Admiral’s records. Nor have I seen any recorded accomplishments from them in years, K’torr remarked. A’duna released a quick giggle. She was amused. In fact, they have become complacent with the peace that the Empire currently enjoys, K’torr’s light brown colored skin seemed to exude pride and confidence as he stared at the emperor. He reached up to stroke the hair around his mouth. As Prince K’torr looked around the table, he caught C’sila’s glance. She caught his nervous habit.

Are you willing to put your record and leadership to the test against an Admiral of my choosing, Emperor M’larr challenged K’torr as he gazed at Princess A’duna and Princess C’sila. K’torr smiled and turned to his beautiful wives, A’duna and C’sila. They each nodded to him.

What did you have in mind, Emperor, K’torr had already accepted the challenge in his own mind. He wanted to make the terms interesting for himself, yet rewarding for his people.

You versus my top Admiral, Emperor M’larr stated with a smile as he glanced at the captains around the table. Emperor M’larr was holding back critical information. K’torr wanted to be cautious and not over extend himself. But it would not be the first time he had over extended himself though.

What are the rules of engagement for this little game, K’torr asked interlacing his fingers in front of himself. K’torr was trying to show only his confidence. But A’duna and C’sila could see in their husband’s movements and deep within his mind how nervous he was.

Your ships versus mine, Prince K’torr, Emperor M’larr stated. But K’torr thought the emperor’s statement was vague.

I am not clear on which ships you are referring to, Emperor M’larr, K’torr asked and turned to Princess A’duna. But before you answer that, let’s talk about the wager. What are you asking for IF you win, K’torr was blunt and made it a point to stress the ‘IF.’ Neither man had ever lost a challenge and K’torr’s statement was even more of a challenge to M’larr. Princess A’duna could see that both men were enjoying this banter.

My sagacious young Prince, when you lose, I want you and C’sila to resign your commissions and be the Prince and Princess of the empire, Emperor M’larr announced slowly in a low voice as he leaned forward resting his head on his interlaced hands. Emperor M’larr glanced at C’sila and A’duna. The captains at the table gazed at K’torr nervously.

Emperor, I cannot agree to that without, K’torr spoke. He was interrupted by C’sila.

No, I agree to his terms, K’torr, C’sila snapped. K’torr looked at C’sila in surprise. The confidence that C’sila displayed astonished M’larr, K’torr and A’duna. I have stood at your side in several battles over the last year. This will be no different, she smiled at her husband, the Admiral. Then, K’torr turned back to M’larr.

Before I agree to anything, I want to finish our discussion on the rules of engagement, K’torr insisted. He wanted to be cautious. K’torr felt the stakes were higher than he planned. He did not want C’sila to lose the right to choose between Captain or Princess.

ANDROMEDA and PHOENIX against my Fleet. All you have to do is enter orbit with either ship, Emperor M’larr stated. His grin was even larger this time, thinking that he would win.

I accept your terms with some modifications, Emperor, K’torr started as he looked at M’larr.

Continue, Prince K’torr, Emperor M’larr nodded. He wanted to hear the changes.

ARTEMIS is not to participate. She is strictly an observer. No one boarding her will be permitted to leave the flight deck. No one disembarks until we complete this game, K’torr began. WHEN I win, K’torr stressed the ‘when’. He began to detail the wager upon his victory. First, your Admiral will be retired, K’torr demanded. Second, for each of your ships that I disable or destroy, you grant me a single request, unconditionally. And for every ship that I capture, you give me two requests, unconditionally, K’torr smiled back at the emperor. The emperor glanced at A’duna to see her smiling at K’torr. As Emperor M’larr stared at his daughter, he found it difficult to determine if A’duna’s smile was confidence or amusement at her husband’s audacity. But C’sila’s face was more difficult to read. It was an emotionless poker face that provided not hints.

Admiral, you seem to be over-confident about your chance for success. I do not think that you truly grasp the magnitude of the situation you are about to undertake or the odds, Emperor M’larr suggested. Princess A’duna reclined against her seatback with a smile. She was taking great pleasure in the discussion. But she refused to take sides.

No, father, C’sila answered. She took the tiara off of her head and placed it on the table beside her plate. Her black hair was pulled back into a single braided tail that reached half way down her back. I think you misunderstand, she informed her father. K’torr understands that he is outnumbered and outgunned, she corrected him. That is your only advantage, which means the odds at first glance are against him, she added. The grin she wore complimented her baby blue skin tone. Anyone that has seen or been with Admiral K’torr in combat, she paused to look at her husband. She seemed to glow. Knows that his enemies will be outmatched and outwitted, C’sila finished. Prince K’torr took a sip of his wine.

Friends, please clarify something for me. The odds definitely appear, at first glance, to be against me, right, K’torr asked sarcastically as he looked around the table. Everyone agreed with K’torr. But does anyone have any doubt that I cannot succeed, K’torr asked. No one at the table responded. There, Emperor. Confidence, K’torr paused. In each other is the greatest strength my people and I have. With that, my Fleet can move mountains, K’torr smiled.

Then, Prince K’torr, I accept your terms and we have an agreement, Emperor M’larr agreed. Admiral, you and Captain C’sila should start looking for your replacements, Emperor M’larr taunted them. K’torr smiled and let out a quick laugh at him. Emperor M’larr gave K’torr a questioning gaze.

Emperor M’larr, Captain A’kran spoke and breaking M’larr’s gaze on K’torr.

Yes, Captain A’kran, Emperor M’larr turned to A’kran. Captain A’kran smiled.

With all due respect, sir, you have already lost this battle, A’kran announced. Emperor M’larr straightened in his chair. You should concede this battle now and avoid additional embarrassment, he advised M’larr.

What embarrassment, Captain, Emperor M’larr was confused.

Admiral K’torr is going kill your Fleet slowly, Captain A’kran emphasized. Emperor M’larr scanned the table to see their reactions. K’torr, A’duna and C’sila each wore large grins. K’torr interrupted the emperor’s gaze and the discussion.

Oh, Captain. Let’s be optimistic, K’torr told Captain A’kran. I will be gentle with his Admiral. Only half of his Fleet will be killed, K’torr laughed as he taunted the emperor. Capturing his ships would be more pleasing for me and embarrassing to the Emperor and his Admiral, he added. Emperor M’larr smiled, looking at K’torr. I will draft the exercise message and send it to you, Emperor, K’torr announced.

Agreed, Prince K’torr, Emperor M’larr agreed. M’larr addressed K’torr as Prince vice Admiral to poke the bear again. He knew that K’torr was not comfortable with being addressed as ‘Prince’ almost to the point of hating it.

Let’s toast to an interesting and challenging game, everyone, K’torr said raising his wine glass. Everyone else raised their glasses to join in the festive spirit. K’torr paused for a moment after he placed his glass on the table. His mind was drifting to another time in flashes.

Admiral K’torr, Princess A’duna called to him. She felt something unfamiliar in him for a split-second. What are you thinking about, she asked him. K’torr looked up at her with a smile to conceal his momentary lapse of focus. For a moment, he felt that was somewhere else.

I was just thinking about the requests that your father is going to approve after I defeat his Admiral, K’torr said with a chuckle. A’duna stared at K’torr. Her lips tightened at his response.

That will be enough discussion on this topic for tonight. Admiral K’torr will send the message for your approval, father, Princess A’duna started. Is that clear, Admiral, she requested his agreement. A’duna eyed K’torr for a moment, waiting for his response.

Yes, Princess, K’torr responded in a military manner.

And you, father, A’duna demanded his concurrence as she gazed in his direction. Emperor M’larr stared at her for a moment before answering.

Very well, I agree, M’larr told her. Her directness reminded him of her mother. They finished their dinner and returned to their respective ships. K’torr generated the exercise message and sent it to Emperor M’larr for approval. Then, it was sent to his Admiral with no mention of the wager.

Two weeks days later, the three ships approached the edge of the Mintakan star system. There were no ships within scanning range as the yellow-orange star came into view. K’torr had expected one or more ships to escort Emperor M’larr’s ship to Mintaka Prime, the homeworld.

ANDROMEDA, this is ARTEMIS. Requesting permission to break formation and continue on to Mintaka Prime to commence the exercise, Captain A’kran requested. He sat in his command chair waiting for a response.

ARTEMIS, you are cleared to break formation and continue as planned, the ANDROMEDA responded. The ANDROMEDA and PHOENIX fell back as the ARTEMIS moved ahead and out of sight. ANDROMEDA and PHOENIX held position until they received word that ARTEMIS was in orbit around Mintaka Prime.

All units, this is Emperor M’larr. You have received the rules for engagement for this simulation. Good luck to you all. Let the game begin, Emperor M’larr started the competition.

Aboard the ANDROMEDA, Admiral K’torr stood beside Captain C’sila on the bridge. He gazed down at C’sila as he spoke.

PHOENIX, commence phase one, K’torr ordered. Good luck, K’torr finished.

Commencing phase one, aye, the PHOENIX responded as she moved away. ANDROMEDA remained in her current position waiting for the completion of phase one of Admiral K’torr’s plan. He had no attacks planned for the first day, only recognizance operations. Twelve uneventful hours passed as the ANDROMEDA held position, watched and waited.

Captain, receiving an automated distress call from an escape pod, Communication Officer reported to Captain C’sila. C’sila looked at her. Admiral K’torr appeared to be unphased by the report.

Location, C’sila replied as she turned.

Ma’am, the emergency beacon is passing Mintaka Seven, the report came from the communications station. Based on the telemetry, its course will take it to Mintaka Prime, the Communication Officer reported. K’torr placed his hand on C’sila’s shoulder. He already knew what it was.

Let the Emperor’s Fleet handle it, K’torr instructed her. She snapped her head around to look at him. As their eyes met, K’torr reassured her it would be fine. Trust me, Captain. It is part of my plan, he updated her. C’sila nodded in response. Captain, I suggest you put all communications on the overhead so we do not miss anything, K’torr recommended without providing any additional information.

Admiral, do you know who is in that escape pod, Captain C’sila asked. She was disappointed that he had not shared this part of the plan with her.

Of course, Captain, K’torr said as he glanced at C’sila. He could see that she wanted more. It is A’duna, K’lona, and A’kila, he told her without any emotion.

A’duna, C’sila repeated in surprise swinging around to look at him. Several of the bridge crew followed suit and began staring at him. They were all waiting for his explanation.

There are forty ships between us and home. In a direct frontal assault, ANDROMEDA and PHOENIX cannot reach their objective, together or individually, K’torr began to explain. So, phase one is to capture one of the opposition’s ships. To do that, we needed a Trojan Horse, he continued. Princess A’duna agreed to play that part. But we knew that the only way they would believe her story was if she took the girls with her, K’torr explained. When your sister is ready to begin the next part of this phase, she will contact me, he finished calmly.

Aboard the escape pod, Princess A’duna, K’lona and A’kila drifted toward her home world. She was not nervous about being in the small pod. A’duna relaxed between her little girls, K’lona and A’kila, as they slept. As she pulled the small blankets over the girls, Princess A’duna heard something hit the pod and felt a vibration in the pod’s hull. She checked the onboard monitoring system. Seeing a shadow fall across the pod, A’duna realized that they were being pulled into a shuttle bay. The pod shook several times before the door opened. Princess A’duna raised her hand to shield her eyes from the bright light as the escape pod’s hatch opened. As she lowered her hand, A’duna could see a weapon pointed at her.

I am Princess A’duna, she said moving to block their view of the twins. They lowered their weapons and assisted her from the pod. Once out of the pod, she turned to get her daughters, K’lona and A’kila.

Welcome aboard the D’MTRI’s DAGGER, Princess A’duna. What happened, they asked her as she pulled her girls from the pod. A’duna glanced up at the guards.

Please, take us to your doctor, Princess A’duna ordered. I need to get my daughters checked, she explained. As she was escorted through the ship’s corridors to the medical facility, A’duna opened her mind and focused on the girl’s father. "K’torr, we are aboard the D’MTRI’s DAGGER. The girls and I are fine. Everything is going according to plan," she thought. Her face showed nothing but concern for her daughters to those in her presence.

Admiral K’torr stood beside Captain C’sila with his eyes closed as he heard A’duna’s thoughts. Princess A’duna is aboard the D’MTRI’s DAGGER, he updated the bridge crew and took deep breaths. She and our daughters are fine, K’torr said as he opened his eyes. It will be at least four hours before anything happens, Captain, K’torr informed C’sila. We have been in this position too long, K’torr cautioned her. Set a recon course along bearing three zero one, he instructed C’sila. The Princess is in that direction. Keep all ships at the edge of our sensor horizon, K’torr told her turning to return to their quarters. When you are relieved, I need to brief you on the next phase of the plan, he advised Captain C’sila. K’torr departed the bridge to rest and spend time with their twin sons, K’lani and A’doni.

As K’torr entered his quarters, he was greeted by a young woman. She bowed to him as he approached her. K’torr placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

Please, do not bow to me, K’torr begged her. She was nearly six feet tall and built like an athlete with her red hair tied back. He did not notice that she was wearing lieutenant’s rank insignia on a uniform.

But it is protocol to, she began to tell him about the protocols. But he interrupted her.

You care for my children when I am occupied with other duties. It makes me feel uncomfortable for someone that my children will see as family to bow to me, K’torr explained to her. So please, he begged her.

As you wish, Admiral, she acquiesced to his request. She would have normally addressed him as Prince, but she recognized his discomfort with his new position in the Empire.

And thank you for not calling me Prince, K’torr smiled at her. She returned his smile as she stood waiting. K’torr turned as he picked up K’lani to see the woman waiting for something.

Was there something else, K’torr asked her as he sat on the couch to feed his son. She smiled at K’torr’s gentleness with K’lani. The lieutenant stepped forward.

Admiral, I think there has been a misunderstanding, she began. The boys’ nursemaid stepped out for a moment to remove the boys’ soiled garments, the lieutenant explained the misunderstanding. I am Lieutenant R’kela, she paused. K’torr did not like where this was going. Your new Cultural and Protocol Officer, she informed K’torr. He raised his head the inspect Lieutenant R’kela.

Let me guess, Admiral K’torr paused as he fed K’lani. You were selected by the Council, he asked R’kela.

Yes, sir. I am the next best qualified person, R’kela proudly responded. K’torr was skeptical of this situation. He wondered why no one had mentioned this to him prior to this moment.

Are you secretly hiding that you are the daughter of someone important, K’torr paused. Like an Emperor, he asked sarcastically. She released a small giggle, understanding why he had made that particular comment.

No, sir. The closest that I can get to that is being Princess C’sila’s close friend for years, she admitted with a smile. K’torr studied her for a moment and thought about C’sila.

My apologies, K’torr motioned for her to join him on the couch. Please have a seat and let’s talk, he requested. K’torr adjusted K’lani so he could face R’kela. So, which custom should I be most concerned with now that I am married, he asked her.

Admiral, R’kela began. You will not like this but, she paused. You must take another concubine, she delivered the bad news. R’kela could see that K’torr was shocked and confused. Marrying Princess C’sila, she started but K’torr interrupted her. He understood his mistake.

You are saying that since I married Princess C’sila, that she is expected to select a concubine for me if I fail to choose one, K’torr was not completely surprised. Then, it hit him all at once as he raised his head to look at R’kela. And were you selected to be my concubine or did you volunteer, he wanted her to tell him.

I was told that you had difficulty with this custom so, I really have no expectation of being selected. But if you are asking me if I desire to be your concubine. Then, the answer is yes, she bowed her head to apologize. If you would permit me to remain in the Defense Force, she requested lowering her head. He reached over to place his index and middle finger under her chin, raising her head.

You have no reason to feel guilty or apologize, Lieutenant R’kela, K’torr assured her. C’sila’s best friend, he repeated aloud. K’torr thought that this was not a good idea. You are my wife’s best friend. And I would regret being the cause of you two no longer being friends, he paused to think of an appropriate solution. I will accept you as my Cultural and Protocol Officer for now. But as for the concubine resolution, C’sila will have to tell me that you are best friends and she is selecting you as my concubine, he informed her. She interrupted him.

I understand, Admiral, Lieutenant R’kela understood his concerns. K’torr quickly redirected the conversation.

Now, I expect all of my Aides to become Command qualified, K’torr paused. Because I will send you on solo missions for me, he informed her. Captain C’sila is on the bridge. And I believe the two of you have much to discuss, he remarked. She immediately got up and left the quarters for the bridge. K’torr finished feeding K’lani and returned him to his bed and did the same with A’doni. The time seemed to pass quickly.

Good day, Prince K’torr, the nurse greeted him. She looked around the room for R’kela. Was Lieutenant R’kela here when you arrived, she asked with concern for the children.

She just left, K’torr informed her. I understand protocol, nurse, he paused. But when we are alone, I would be grateful if you would not call me Prince, he begged her. I am just not comfortable with that title, yet, he explained.

Of course, Admiral, she replied with a smile. K’torr smiled back at her. But his head started to pound.

"K’torr, ready, he heard A’duna call to him. Long range communications disabled. All packages delivered. I am moving to the bridge," she informed him. He stood up holding his head and moving to his desk.

"On our way, A’duna, K’torr sent her. She was an hour early and he was surprised that A’duna was ready so quickly. Bridge, Admiral K’torr. Battle stations. Set course for the D’MTRI’s DAGGER, full speed. Inform the PHOENIX, we are moving to capture the D’MTRI’s DAGGER, he passed his order to the bridge. I will be there in a minute," he said glancing at his sons.

On the D’MTRI’s DAGGER, the crew began experiencing equipment failures throughout the ship. One by one systems were malfunctioning. Princess A’duna arrived on the bridge and immediately began asking about the communications system. A’duna pretended that she wanted to send a message to her father.

"A’duna, we are one minute out, ‘Capture the flag,’" K’torr instructed her. Princess A’duna looked around the bridge to assess the situation before continuing.

Captain, is there anything that I can do to assist you, Princess A’duna offered him her assistance. She continued to look around the bridge calmly. The captain did not look at her as he answered.

No, thank you, Princess. I think it would be best if, he informed her. You return to your quarters and allow the professionals to handle this, he snapped. Princess A’duna stared at him, surprised and irritated by his response.

Computer, this is Princess A’duna. CAPTURE THE FLAG, Princess A’duna commanded the computer over the chaos of the bridge. The captain turned to Princess A’duna in shock to see her staring back at him. She moved to stand between the helmsman and the captain’s chair as everything went crazy. All user controls had been disabled. No one was able to activate or deactivate anything.

CAPTURE THE FLAG protocol initiated. All command codes transferred to Admiral K’torr. All user interfaces disabled. Long range communications disabled. Weapons disabled. Propulsion disabled. All doors, hatches and emergency bulkheads closed and locked, the computer informed everyone. Then, the situation got worse as the alarms sounded. Auto-destruct has been initiated. This ship will self-destruct in fifteen minutes, the computer’s voice reported.

Princess, what have you done, the captain demanded that she answer him. She turned to face him with a smile. I demand you fix this, he ordered her. Princess A’duna was surprised by his audacity.

You demand me, Captain, Princess A’duna questioned him. She was slightly amused. I thought you said ‘the professionals could handle it,’ she restated his comment to her. You and your professionals are ordered to surrender your vessel and prepare to be boarded, Princess A’duna ordered him in front of the bridge crew. Before he could reply, she continued. Before you cross the wrong line, you should choose carefully, Captain, she paused. Everyone dies for your vanity or everyone lives. Be quick though. Time is not on your side, she informed him. "K’torr, auto-destruct has been activated. The captain is trying to hold out for time," she sent to K’torr.

Captain, sensors have a large vessel on an intercept course with us. ETA ten seconds. There is no record of them in our database, the tactical station reported. Princess A’duna walked over to the review the data and silhouette they saw.

Admiral K’torr will be here shortly and he has little patience. So, don’t be stupid, Princess A’duna warned him. Captain, I am Princess A’duna, daughter of Emperor M’larr, she identified herself once again. I order you to surrender your vessel and I will instruct Admiral K’torr to be magnanimous, she insisted with a smile.

He will not let you and his daughters die, the captain was trying to call her bluff. A’duna smiled as she walked around the bridge. But she was concerned by his last statement. The ANDROMEDA stopped within fifty miles of the D’MTRI’s DAGGER to establish line of sight communications. All of D’MTRI’s DAGGER radio transmissions were offline except for the line-of-sight laser pulse. Line-of-sight communications could not be intercepted.

D’MTRI’s DAGGER, this ANDROMEDA. You are ordered to surrender your vessel and prepare to be boarded, the ANDROMEDA ordered the D’MTRI’s DAGGER. Princess A’duna looked at the captain as she encouraged him to answer.

Please, Captain. He is the only one that can deactivate the auto-destruct, A’duna advised him as the computer updated the time.

The ship will self-destruct in ten minutes, the computer reported. Princess A’duna found an empty seat to sit in it. The captain continued to stare at her as he tried to think of a way out of this situation.

Tick, tock goes the clock, Captain, Princess A’duna taunted him. Your pride or your crew’s life. A tough choice, she remarked to him. Princess A’duna sat at the console tapping on it with a smile. The bridge crew’s attention was divided between their duties, Princess A’duna and their Captain. Couldn’t hurt you to talk to him. Or more accurately, it would hurt a lot less than being dead, she taunted him.

D’MTRI’s DAGGER, this is ANDROMEDA. Please respond, the ANDROMEDA’s call sounded throughout the bridge. The captain stared at A’duna as he waved to the Communications station to answer the hail.

ANDROMEDA, we are receiving you, the captain spoke with frustration in his voice. Admiral K’torr appeared on screen standing beside Captain C’sila.

Captain, you seem to be having some technical difficulties. Is there anything that I can do to assist you, K’torr grinned. He could see the anger and frustration in the captain’s face. Captain, I will make this simple, he started. If you surrender, no harm will come to you or your crew, he offered. If it means anything, this battle was never between you and my ships, so surrender, K’torr requested of the captain.

I cannot do that, Admiral, the captain said as he looked at Princess A’duna. And I don’t think you will let the ship blowup while your wife and daughters are onboard, he challenged K’torr. Admiral K’torr looked down at Captain C’sila.

Well, Captain, you have called my bluff, K’torr admitted as he turned to input a few commands into the computer. But Captain, I will have your ship, he paused. Princess A’duna, what compartment are our daughters in, he asked. The captain tried to prevent her from speaking. But she gave her husband the answer mentally. Thank you, Princess, K’torr told her. And Captain that was a mistake, K’torr said staring at the captain holding Princess A’duna. You should have never touched Princess A’duna, K’torr warned him. Computer, a highly contagious bio-toxin has been identified throughout the ship. Disperse neutralizing agent throughout the ship, maximum dispersal, K’torr ordered the computer. My apologies Princess, K’torr said watching everyone drop like flies. As he watched the last of the bridge crew fall to the deck, he issued additional commands to the D’MTRI’s DAGGER. Computer deactivate ‘CAPTURE THE FLAG’ protocol, restore all systems, and disable long range communications, he ordered the D’MTRI’s DAGGER computer.

CAPTURE THE FLAG deactivated. All systems restored to normal operation. Long Range Communications disabled, the D’MTRI’s DAGGER’s computer replied.

Captain C’sila, send a security team. Bring Princess A’duna, my daughters and that Captain back here. Send to PHOENIX, Phase one complete, once they are onboard, K’torr ordered as he left the bridge.

Yes, Admiral, Captain C’sila replied. She could see the anger on his face as he left the bridge. K’torr returned to his quarters to review the tactical data recovered from the D’MTRI’s DAGGER. But his biggest question was which ship the Admiral was on. He planned to use his captured prize to bring down the rest of the Fleet.

Nearly two hours later, Admiral K’torr sat at the desk in his quarters as Captain C’sila and Lieutenant R’kela walked in. He glanced at the door to see who was entering.

You should get some rest before we begin Phase two, K’torr suggested to C’sila as he glanced at R’kela. Lieutenant, have you received your watch schedule, K’torr asked her. Before, she could reply, C’sila answered.

K’torr, C’sila called to him. She stood staring at him and waited for him to stop working on the computer. C’sila had taken off her blouse so that there was no rank or military identification showing. Admiral K’torr, stop working and come here, please, Princess C’sila demanded. K’torr was upset as he stood up. As he looked at C’sila, K’torr realized that she had shifted to Princess C’sila. This caught him off guard.

Yes, Princess, Admiral K’torr replied, clasping his hands behind him. He saw Lieutenant R’kela at Princess C’sila’s right side as she began to speak.

Admiral, I have appointed Lieutenant R’kela as your Aide, Cultural and Protocol Officer. She is well-versed and qualified in that particular area. Lieutenant R’kela will provide you with the guidance that you desire, C’sila advised him.

Thank you, Princess. I appreciate your assistance in this matter. She will be an added asset to the team and improve my knowledge and efficiency, Admiral K’torr expressed his gratitude as he remained standing.

She has been my most trusted and valued friend for many years. Your concerns about having her as your concubine have been conveyed to me. I assure you both that this will not be an issue and I expect that this will be an acceptable arrangement for the three of us, Princess C’sila explained to K’torr.

I understand, Princess. Then, I accept Lieutenant R’kela and consider the matter closed. Will there be anything else, Admiral K’torr asked Princess C’sila in a military manner. Princess C’sila nodded to him signifying that she had nothing else.

Princess, I need Princess A’duna to promote Lieutenant R’kela to Sub-Commander as she did for you, K’torr requested looking to R’kela.

Lieutenant, Princess C’sila turned to R’kela. You are out of uniform. Admiral K’torr stated that he accepts you as his Aide. That is a position for a Sub-Commander at a minimum, Princess C’sila informed her as K’torr moved to replace her rank insignia.

Congratulations, Sub-Commander. I have given you access to my schedule. Add your schedule to it so we can coordinate our time better, K’torr began. He removed his blouse to relax as he looked at C’sila.

What is our status, K’torr asked C’sila as they all sat on the couch to speak.

Security has located all of the personnel that you requested. They are on their way back, now, C’sila reported as she stared at K’torr. She could see the relief in K’torr’s posture. But she could sense some agitation in him.

Place the Captain in restraints and bring him here so we can speak with him, K’torr ordered as he saw R’kela giving him a questioning look. He was willing to sacrifice his crew for this exercise, this game. Was it his vanity or something more, he asked. I want to know why, K’torr insisted. The captain’s behavior concerned him greatly.

Thirty minutes later, Princess A’duna, K’lona, A’kila, two guards, and the ship’s Captain entered the quarters. Admiral K’torr stood to allow A’duna to sit. He directed the guards to assist him in moving the girls to their crib in the bedroom. As they returned to the living area, K’torr thanked the guards.

Thank you, gentlemen, for assisting me with my daughters, K’torr said staring at the captain. Is this man, your Captain, he asked the guards. He noticed that these guards were not part of ANDROMEDA’s crew.

Yes, Admiral, they replied looking at their Captain. Their Captain stood with his hands bound behind his back.

Is he honorable? Is his word good? Do you trust him without question? Do you believe that he has the crew’s best interest at heart, K’torr asked, moving to the couch.

Admiral, if the captain says that he will do something, then it will happen, the guards assured him. K’torr nodded, looking to the Princesses. They nodded at him.

Captain, give me your word that you will not make any aggressive moves or attempt to escape, K’torr requested of the captain. Everyone stared at the bound Captain as they waited for his reply.

You have my word, Admiral, the captain responded. K’torr had the guards remove their Captain’s bindings. Please have a seat, Captain, K’torr said turning to the window. Captain, I am concerned by your willingness to sacrifice your crew and ship, he began. Either you are following orders which are not in accordance with the agreed rules of engagement for this training exercise, K’torr said turning to face the captain. Or you have allowed your pride to get in the way of your command decisions, K’torr added. Before he allowed the captain to explain himself, Admiral K’torr wanted to know if they were playing from the same set of rules. I want you to watch this video of our discussion with Emperor M’larr and tell me if this is consistent with your orders. Computer, establish uplink with ARTEMIS and play recording ‘M’larr’s Challenge,’ K’torr sat on the couch as the video played. As the recording playback finished, the D’MTRI’s DAGGER’s Captain shook his head.

Admiral, that is not consistent with the orders the Fleet was sent, the captain informed K’torr. We were given three orders, he began detailing the orders. One, capture or destroy your ships; Two, arrest you, if possible, Admiral, he paused. And, three, rescue the Princesses and their children, he glanced at the Princesses. K’torr’s suspicions had been confirmed.

Admiral, the Fleet is not playing by the agreed upon rules of engagement for this exercise. We should discontinue this exercise before anyone is injured, Princess A’duna suggested. K’torr nodded to her.

Princess, your opinion, K’torr asked Princess C’sila. He wanted to hear her view.

No, you already have the message that the Fleet received. We know the conditions which the Fleet is acting upon. I suggest that you recall PHOENIX and rethink the original plan. But push forward, Princess C’sila recommended. Besides, I would not expect them to just let us proceed to the palace, she added. Admiral K’torr walked back to look out the window. He stood there as everyone watched him trying to decide how to proceed.

Commander, recall the PHOENIX. Rendezvous at delta point in three hours. Inform Captain V’shar that the Fleet is not operating per Emperor M’larr’s guidance and the use of live weapons is authorized to defend his ship. Use minimum force necessary, Admiral K’torr instructed Sub-Commander R’kela as he turned to Princess A’duna. Princess A’duna, the D’MTRI’s DAGGER’s crew will recover in approximately one hour. I am giving you command of the D’MTRI’s DAGGER. I will give you further orders and a mission later, he told her. But the D’MTRI’s DAGGER’s Captain began to protest.

She is not, the captain began to protest as K’torr interrupted knowing what the captain would say.

Princess A’duna and Princess C’sila are command qualified. And they have multiple victorious battles on their records, he silenced the captain. The fact of the matter is that until I trust you, you will assist Princess C’sila in her duties. If you deviate from my orders so much as a hair, I will place you in the brig. Is that clear, Captain, K’torr ordered with a raised voice. He stared at the captain waiting for a response.

Understood, Admiral, the captain acknowledged his orders. Admiral K’torr wanted to test the captain before he let him go free onboard the ANDROMEDA.

What ship is the Admiral on, Captain M’aveq, Admiral K’torr demanded. Captain M’aveq focused intently at K’torr. He was not sure what to say or if he should answer.

The Admiral planned to take the ARTEMIS, sir, M’aveq informed K’torr. Admiral K’torr smiled at him.

Yes, he is Captain. Thank you, K’torr smiled at him. Captain M’aveq realized that K’torr knew the answer and was testing him. Princess A’duna, I believe that this Captain can be trusted to reliably assist you in your upcoming missions, K’torr said staring at Captain M’aveq. Understand Captain, had you lied to me, you would now be in the brig, K’torr informed him. With respect to this exercise, all of the D’MTRI’s DAGGER’s personnel are declared dead and the ship has been captured. Would you agree with that assessment, Captain, he asked the captain.

Yes, Admiral. The D’MTRI’s DAGGER is at your command, Captain M’aveq smiled.

Computer, establish remote access to the ARTEMIS. Query. Are Admiral P’taak and Emperor M’larr onboard, K’torr asked the computer. The computer established a remote computer link with the ARTEMIS and began a search of the ship for the two individuals.

Affirmative! Admiral P’taak and Emperor M’larr are onboard the ARTEMIS, the computer replied. A large grin formed on K’torr’s face as he looked at Princess A’duna and Princess C’sila. They returned his gaze, understanding what was about to happen. Computer, modify Capture the Flag protocol, upload to ARTEMIS, and execute. Changes are as follows; silent execution, propulsion enabled, navigation set and engage course to delta point, maximum speed. Disperse neutralizing agent throughout the ship. Activate auto-destruct with thirty-minute audio-visual countdown at all stations to commence ten minutes after arrival at delta point. End changes and transmit with auto-execute upon receipt, K’torr ordered.

Commander R’kela, send to PHOENIX. ARTEMIS compromised. Remote command protocols engaged. Capture the Flag protocol activated with thirty minute auto-destruct upon arrival at delta point with a ten-minute delay. Orders – 1. Rescue Emperor M’larr, 2. Arrest Admiral P’taak. 3.Retake ARTEMIS, K’torr ordered.

ARTEMIS, locate Captain A’kran, K’torr ordered the computer of the ARTEMIS, lowering his head.

Captain A’kran is in his quarters, the computer responded. K’torr was relieved that he was not in the brig.

Is he alone, K’torr asked.

Affirmative!

Open a channel to Captain A’kran’s quarters, route through tertiary communications relay, he ordered the computer. As the distorted image appeared, K’torr could see A’kran lying on the bed with his arm curled behind his head. Captain A’kran, I gave you a ship and you let some no talent Admiral take it from you, K’torr surprised A’kran. Captain A’kran jumped from the bed.

Admiral K’torr, P’taak has it out for you. The Fleet does not know it is just a game. They are under a capture or destroy order. Emperor M’larr and I are under house arrest, A’kran informed K’torr. Admiral K’torr looked back at A’duna and C’sila. Don’t come to the planet to rescue us. He is expecting you to, A’kran warned K’torr. Admiral K’torr smiled.

I do not plan to come to the planet to get you, Captain, K’torr paused. I plan to bring the mountain to me, he stated. ARTEMIS, CAPTURE THE FLAG. Give Captain A’kran full access to all compartments and systems, K’torr ordered the computer. Captain, I suggest you don and seal a battle suit. You are about to have trouble breathing, he warned.

Acknowledged. Capture the Flag protocol activated. Captain A’kran has unrestricted access, the ARTEMIS’s computer informed K’torr. Captain A’kran smiled hearing the computer’s report.

The ARTEMIS is coming to me, Captain. You have one hour and twenty-five minutes to retake your ship. I will see you in sixty minutes, K’torr warned. And get a gas mask for the emperor, he instructed A’kran. Admiral K’torr turned to Captain C’sila. Set course to delta point, maximum speed. Standby to engage, K’torr ordered as C’sila passed the order to the bridge. D’MTRI’s DAGGER, slave your navigation to ANDROMEDA, he ordered the computer.

D’MTRI’s DAGGER now slaved to ANDROMEDA’s navigational computer, the computer reported. K’torr snapped his head around to C’sila. She was already halfway to the door.

Ladies and Gentlemen, let’s go. We have work to do, K’torr told them. Everyone headed for the door. But K’torr stopped the guards. I need you two to stay with the children. The nurse will be here in two minutes. They are your responsibility, he told the guards. They nodded to K’torr and remained in the room.

CHAPTER 2

Retake the ARTEMIS

In