Queen of Pain: Book II of The Pain Series

By Michael D'Ambrosio

Marina's attempt to lead a normal life falls short when her kingdom is besieged by dangerous mercenaries hired to bring her under the control of a huge corporation. Her return to a life of violence against a plethora of enemies, despite guidance from unlikely allies, becomes necessary to vanquish an enemy far superior and organized than any she

• Language: English
• Publisher: Quantum Discovery
• Release date: Nov 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9781959314356

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BOOK II OF THE PAIN SERIES

MICHAEL D’AMBROSIO

Queen of Pain

Copyright © 2022 by Michael D’Ambrosio

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

ISBN

978-1-959314-34-9 (Paperback)

978-1-959314-35-6 (eBook)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. A Gathering Storm

II. The First Strike

III. The Bitch is Back

IV. About Lilith

V. Complications

VI. Failed Alliances

VII. Orpheus - 2

VIII. A Setup

IX. The Trap Unfolds

X. The Aftermath

I

A GATHERING

STORM

Two months had elapsed since Marina liberated the people of Yord and was crowned queen. With help from militia Commander Britt Sykes, her close friend Rebecca, and Fleet Commander Sheena Brice, she gradually grew into her role as a leader of her people.

As the birth of Rebecca’s baby drew near, Marina lost contact with her liaison and closest friend, forcing her to leave the palace on a regular basis to interact with her people. Still recovering from her addiction to the Stardust stimulant, she suffered from periodic spells of nausea and hallucinations. Determined as always, she refused help and took the consequences in stride.

Dressed in her usual leather pants and black bodice with no bra or T-shirt, and black boots, she wore her dark hair draped down on her shoulders. Over the leather attire was a regal red, velvet cape and a simple tiara with a small ruby embedded in it. Marina refused to wear anything more than that as a symbol of her royalty when she mingled with her people. She felt she was no better than any of them and chose to retain her old attire as proof.

Without Britt, who was away for a lengthy period of time, or Rebecca for guidance for friendly conversation, she was lonely. Strangers filled the palace, repairing and restoring its interior. The distraction of noise pressed her to leave the palace frequently for strolls into town for some semblance of solitude.

As Marina marched through the center of the Palace District, she observed the simple activities of the townspeople. Many business owners started the tedious process of cleaning and stocking the stores with some opening for the first time in a long while. Two cafes were adorned with banners promoting their return. Meanwhile, the streets were filled with many people; some shopping, some looking for work.

Marina’s militia security urged her to take an escort but she always refused. She did, however, request that they maintain a presence in the major cities of Yord to keep order and ensure the reconstruction was carried out in an orderly fashion. She was well aware of the ‘opportunists’ that showed up at times like this, looking to take advantage of the less fortunate.

Several people greeted Marina as she made her way along the cobblestone streets. She listened to their comments and stories courteously. Once she learned to relax and enjoy their company, she became a favorite among the people. She entertained them with her own stories of her encounters with Victor and how she discovered the truth behind her missing parents. With each passing day that she spent among the people, she felt more like she belonged there.

A familiar voice called to her from the street, Marina, look at you!

Marina recognized Dix, her former handler, and responded giddily, Well look what the cat dragged in.

Dix approached her with open arms and they hugged. He was a dark­skinned man in his fifties with a shaved head and a distinct gold tooth in front of his mouth, easily noticeable when he spoke.

Have a hot job for me, Dix? Marina kidded.

Nope. I’m done with that business.

Marina was surprised by his response. What happened?

He grinned sheepishly and explained, The whole courier experience was about preparing you for this. You weren’t transporting contraband; you were helping the rebel movement.

Marina was stunned. You mean all that secrecy was just to push me to take the throne?

Uh-huh, he answered slyly.

Rebecca, Kat and Severin?

Uh-huh. Everything had a purpose that would lead to this.

Marina paced about with her hands on her hips in shock. She couldn’t believe that anyone could con her like this. Dix backed away nervously and assured her that he would never have forced her to take the throne. It had to be her decision.

What did the data chip have to do with all this? she inquired curiously.

That was real, Dix replied. Your actions prevented a war and enabled us to break up a link between a mole in the Fleet and Balthus’ smuggling operation. You took it much further than they expected though.

Rock and Tulley were assholes, she retorted, thinking about her hostile encounter with the two agents.

But those assholes have a lot of respect for you now. They’ll make valuable allies in this new order.

New order? she questioned, baffled by the reference.

There’s rumor about a large corporate organization wanting to take over the galactic trade circuit. That’s nothing new, though.

So, what about Kat? Marina asked, growing ever anxious for more details. I think you owe me an explanation about your relationship with her.

Ah, yes... Kat, he mused. The plan wasn’t for you to meet her; only to obtain the package.

Oh, I met her up close and personal all right. More personal than I cared for.

Let’s go for a walk and we’ll talk about her purpose.

I figured her purpose out, Marina sniped. And for my efforts, she has a marker on me already.

Dix paused with a concerned expression. That’s not good, he replied. Care to explain?

Marina glanced at Dix and wondered what bothered him so about her obligation to Kat. They continued to walk.

Kat will use that marker and in a big way, he warned.

Marina chuckled at his concern. I think Kat and I have an understanding, she said confidently.

I certainly hope so, Dix replied, staring at her suspiciously.

Marina stepped in front of Dix and blocked his path. Looking into his eyes with a somber expression, she pressed for an explanation about his relationship to Kat.

Dix fumbled for words and told her it was complicated. He attempted to pass Marina but she blocked him again, determined to get an explanation from him.

You’re not leaving until you tell me. We had an agreement that, if I took the throne, you’d tell me what goes with the two of you.

Dix reluctantly revealed, Kat is my niece. She, like you, also has the powers of a Seer.

Marina was stunned. Then why did she ask me to destroy the crystal?

Because, like Victor tried, either of you could be held hostage for the use of its powers.

Marina grew more confused and asked, How does that benefit her?

Dix looked away shamefully and then reluctantly continued, Kat turned to a powerful cult of witches to enhance her ability to channel the crystal’s powers without the use of a crystal. Since you destroyed it, she believes she is the only one who can see the future.

Marina folded her arms and recalled her first meeting with Kat. She remembered her words, alluding to their intertwined fates. Does Kat know I can see elements of the future without the crystal?

No, he responded uneasily, but she’ll want to make sure.

Marina pondered for a moment and then inquired, What’s her deal?

Our families were killed by Victor’s men ten years ago. She wants revenge on everyone for what happened to them, including you.

Me? blurted Marina, failing to understand the connection to her.

Yes, if you would have taken the throne back then, they would still be alive.

That’s bullshit! she shouted angrily. How could I have prevented that?

Dix shook his head, indicating his reluctance to tell the story. She stared him down persistently, determined to know how she failed them. Do you remember when you first met Rebecca? Dix asked.

Of course, she said, wondering what the relevance was.

Do you remember the bookstore - the woman and the child?

Marina thought hard and remembered that day. Yeah, Victor’s men burned it to the ground. The woman and child died in the fire, as I recall.

That was my sister and nephew - Kat’s mother and brother.

Marina was appalled and felt sorrow for Dix as she recalled that horrible night. It hurt her to think about the people who died holding out against Victor’s forces until she emerged from obscurity to defeat him. It hurt even more, now that she knew she might have saved Dix’s family members if she wasn’t so damn stubborn. So, Kat may well have a vendetta against me, she surmised aloud.

Just watch your back, Marina, he warned. That’s all I’m saying.

Marina stared down at the ground with remorse in her eyes. Then she looked up and suggested, Perhaps the three of us should have lunch and clear the air.

Dix sighed and replied sadly, It would be nice if my niece and I could meet and get along for once. She’s the only family I have left.

I’ll ask her the next time we meet, she mentioned. I’m sure she’ll pay me a visit soon enough.

Only if she wants something from you, he said uneasily. She never leaves her station.

They walked again past a number of shops. Dix was amazed at how the townspeople responded to her. I see you’ve improved your people skills, he kidded.

I’m still struggling with this, Dix, she confessed. I’m used to being the unknown, unseen specter that creeps in and out of people’s lives; not the center of everyone’s attention.

It’ll take some time. The important thing now is to define your allies and enemies. Being the ruler will make you a target, more so than before.

I’m not one to be intimidated. You, of all people, should know that, she reminded him.

As they continued walking, Dix mentioned, You have become like a daughter to me. I don’t want you to get hurt.

What about my courier assignments? she commented cynically.

They weren’t dangerous enough?

As the two strolled around the perimeter of the palace, Dix continued, Kat can be a formidable ally but she never does something for nothing. I did what I could to have your back, but sometimes you made that quite difficult with your aggressive tactics.

Marina hugged him, much to his surprise. And you did well. I’m still here.

Dix returned her affection and then left. Marina wondered how he managed to run his operation for so many years in plain sight of Victor and the Fleet without being discovered. More so, she was amazed that she was so successful in his operation during that time. Until Victor set his sights on her, she was the elusive mystery woman with a violent reputation.

As Marina walked along one of the side streets, she developed a throbbing headache that forced her to sit for several moments on a wooden bench. She sweated profusely and trembled. Some of the townspeople gathered and inquired if she needed help, but she refused. Then the hallucinations began.

A vague image of a blonde woman in a Fleet uniform appeared. Six figures in blue Fleet uniforms appeared next. The image faded and another appeared. Marina fought the female officer. The image faded and she regained her composure. The vision made no sense to her as Commander Brice was the only Fleet officer she knew and Brice was a brunette. When the headache finally subsided, she disregarded the hallucinations as only that and resumed her walk.

An old, gray-haired friend Dora emerged from the crowd and greeted Marina with a hug. In her late sixties, she wore a long skirt and pullover sweater. She emphasized how proud she and her husband Clem were of Marina for defeating Victor and assuming her new role as queen. Marina could never thank them enough for risking their lives months earlier to save her when the mercenaries hunted her. She sensed that Dora was bothered by something and invited her inside the palace where they could talk in private.

The two sat in the large conference room with the doors closed. Dora took Marina’s hand in hers and revealed, I knew your grandmother many years ago. She was a great warrior, much like you. She trusted few people outside the circle of priestesses in the temple and I was one of them.

Marina grew anxious to hear more about her family history and was attentive. Dora continued, Your grandmother foretold that new Seers would be revealed when the last priestess died.

Why would she speak of that? asked Marina, surprised by her remark. Did she expect me to die young as well?

Dora chuckled and placed her arm around Marina’s shoulders. Remember, Marina: you are different. You were not a priestess but, with the crystal, you were the very power they protected.

Marina was stunned at this news. But I destroyed the crystal, she confessed. What good would that do?

The power of the crystal is in you. By your very presence among new Seers, their skills will manifest themselves.

Do you have any idea who these new Seers might be? Marina asked eagerly.

Dora removed her arm from around Marina and nervously fidgeted. Marina noticed and urged her to relax and confide in her.

I do not know for sure, Dora admitted. I do have my suspicions, though.

Why is this relevant to me? Marina asked curiously.

If these Seers fell under the influence of the wrong people, they could put you in danger.

From whom would they fear? Marina asked, surprised by Dora’s revelation.

There are many who would gain from controlling young Seers as well as yourself, Dora explained.

Marina stood and paced the room uneasily. Finally, she accepted the fact that she was involved, whether she liked it or not. What can I do to help? she asked.

Dora grew somber and instructed her, When you find the new Seers, take them under your protection. Teach them how to use their skills for the good of their people.

Marina became concerned as she never anticipated a responsibility like this to be cast on her. She was far from the role model that the young girls would need to guide them. I don’t know if I can, Dora, she fretted. I don’t even know how to use my own skills.

Dora disregarded her apprehension and insisted, Promise me you’ll do your best to care for them. Kara may be of use in finding them and will need your protection as well.

Marina reluctantly agreed to seek them out with Kara’s help. Dora stood and hugged her once more. You are a great and wise ruler. I know your parents would be very proud of you.

Marina became teary-eyed at the thought of her parents watching her attempt to rule their kingdom. When Dora departed the room, Marina was more perplexed than ever. After finally bringing freedom to the people of Yord, was it possible that there was as much to fear now as there was under Victor’s rule? She ascended the stairs and spent the afternoon in the meditation room, searching for answers to her new challenge.

⋆⋆⋆

Commander Sheena Brice marched down the corridor of Fleet headquarters in a neatly pressed, blue officer’s uniform with her long, dark hair tied up in a bun. Her piercing brown eyes and tight body projected an intimidating appearance.

Sheena was never comfortable at headquarters and preferred the sanctity of her command ship, the S.F. Argo, away from catty politics. Her older sister, Severin, encouraged her to ‘play the game’ with the beaurocrats, but she never had the patience nor the tolerance for the pettiness that her sister did.

She grew teary-eyed as she recalled her sister’s murder at the hands of mercenaries in an ambush on Orpheus-2. It haunted her that her sister didn’t deserve to die like that, especially on her own space station.

At the end of the corridor on the third floor, two sentries were poised at the entrance to a high-security room, known as the Red Room. This room contained the most high-tech monitoring equipment in the galaxy and was designed with airtight security. Red Rooms were also used for high level briefings to ensure their secrecy.

The sentries blocked Sheena’s entry to the Red Room while she positioned herself in front of the retinal scanner to gain access beyond the steel door. When the device acknowledged her identity and beeped, the sentries moved aside, allowing her access. The clicking sound from ten latches around the perimeter of the door meant she could enter. Nervously, she turned the handle and pushed open the steel door. Glancing back at the sentries, she gave them a sharp stare for not assisting a senior officer with the door. Just another example of the lack of discipline that develops when an organization gets fat, dumb and happy, she thought to herself.

Once inside, she immediately sensed the eyes of fifteen administrative officers on her. As they stood to acknowledge her, she announced, "Commander Sheena Brice of the S.F. Argo, reporting as ordered," and then saluted with her right fist over her heart.

The officers responded in kind and took their seats. At the head of the table sat General Duane Witty, a gritty-looking, older man in his fifties with beady eyes, like those of a snake. He wore a black, two-piece uniform with no identification; symbolic of his supreme leadership in the Fleet. Sheena had rarely spoken with him and when she did, it was only in passing.

Sheena took her seat and the meeting began. There was much discussion about a new weapons technology that would enhance all existing weaponry for the Fleet but was delayed due to contractual issues with the developer. Witty emphasized that the issues were being addressed appropriately and progress would continue shortly. Sheena wondered who had the knowledge and the facilities in the private sector as well as the financial backing for the research and development of something so advanced.

After another hour of mundane discussions about how the Fleet will increase the scope of its control and improve training among the ranks, Witty directed his attention to Sheena. Commander Brice, I understand that you’ve had interaction with the Queen of Yord.

Yes, sir, she answered, wondering why that was a concern.

What do you think of her? he inquired curiously and stood. He was an imposing figure, looking down at her with those eerie black eyes. Sheena was uncomfortable with the question and responded defensively, It is not my position to judge, only to enforce the code of the Space Fleet.

The General was amused by her response and walked behind her. And why is that? he continued with arms folded. You are a veteran officer with much experience.

Sheena quickly responded, As an officer of the Fleet, I am trained to obtain facts and recognize threats to the Fleet.

Do you see the queen as a threat to the Fleet?

Sheena grew more concerned with his distinct interest in Marina. Not at this time, sir, she answered casually.

That’s it? he asked, somewhat surprised. Not at this time?

Yes, sir.

Does that mean that she will be a threat at some time in the future? he continued.

That remains to be seen, she answered uneasily. I have not seen or heard anything to indicate she would be a detriment to the Fleet.

And you would tell me if you learned of something, wouldn’t you?

Sheena stood and faced Witty. She did her best to remain respectful and follow protocol but she had to question his motive. Sir, is there something that I need to be briefed on regarding the queen? she countered. I don’t understand the line of questioning here.

At ease, Commander, he ordered, smiling cunningly at her. I just wanted your opinion on things.

Sir, what things? she pressed.

It’s nothing, Commander. Please take your seat.

Sheena sat down and wondered what transpired at headquarters that led to her unofficial inquiry about Marina’s loyalty in front of other officers of equal or greater rank. Something was amiss and she was determined to find out what it was.

When the meeting ended, Witty requested that Sheena stay for a few moments. Once the room emptied, he informed her that soon she’d be patrolling the fifth sector for an extended period of time with two other vessels, the S.F. Hydra and the S.F. Mantis. Sheena thought that was strange, but said no more.

As she left the conference room, Colonel Sandra Lennox intercepted her in the corridor, standing in her path. Lennox, middle-aged and buxom with short blond hair, seemed determined to intimidate Sheena.

Can I help you, Colonel? Sheena asked uneasily.

Just a warning, Commander Brice; I suggest you choose your friends carefully.

I feel as though I’m missing something here, Colonel. Would you care to explain?

The Colonel was fixated on her with an icy stare and then explained, There are big things happening that will require all of us to make sacrifices. Make sure you’re on the right team or else.

Or else what? she challenged Lennox.

Colonel Lennox ignored her and walked away, leaving Sheena more confused than ever. Something big was happening and, so far, nothing she heard made sense.

As she returned to the transportation bay, she recalled what information she knew about sector five. It was on the other side of former alliance members’ territories and beyond that was unexplored territory. It made no sense why three Fleet warships would be positioned out there. More so, she wondered how the alien races in that region would perceive their presence at their backside.

When she reached the transportation bay, the militia commander Britt Sykes had just stepped off his transport. He immediately caught her attention in his black militia jacket over his tan shirt and tie with the insignias of his command. Sheena knew he was close to Marina and considered warning him.

Good morning, Commander, he greeted her and saluted as he walked past.

Sheena saluted and then paused. Excuse me, sir, she beckoned to him. Can I have a minute of your time?

Britt stopped and turned back, making eye contact with her. Of course, he replied pleasantly. What can I do for you?

Is the queen in any sort of danger?

None that I’m aware of, he answered, somewhat surprised. Is something wrong?

Sheena hesitated as she considered the risk she was taking in suggesting the Fleet had issue with Marina. Then she threw caution to the wind and mentioned, The general has a particular interest in her loyalties to the Fleet.

Britt drew closer to her and, sensing her concern, spoke slightly louder than a whisper. Do you sense a problem with that?

I’m not sure. He made several inquiries as to what I thought about the queen and if there was anything to indicate she was a threat to them.

Britt pondered her remarks and assured her, I will pass that along to her. I’m sure it’s nothing but I’ll let her know just the same.

Look, sir, Sheena continued with a concerned tone, I’ve been assigned to a long-term patrol in the fifth sector with two other warships and I suspect it’s somehow relevant to the queen. Trust me when I say that something isn’t right here.

I understand, he reiterated. We’ll look into it.

Thank you, sir, she said, feeling confident that he understood the importance of her message. Marina and I have become really good friends and I respect what she’s been through for her people.

Right now, that friendship means a lot to her, Britt replied. She’s having a tough time getting over her past demons.

Well, thank you for your time, Commander Sykes, Sheena responded and continued toward her ship.

Britt watched her curiously as she left. He, too, wondered why the Fleet’s leader would have such an interest in Marina. He glanced at his watch and continued to his meeting with the Industrial Development Committee and the Fleet leadership.

⋆⋆⋆

The crew of Sheena’s warship, the S.F. Argo, greeted her with salutes and smiles when she boarded. Sheena immediately requested