Chapter 5 - Part B

The evening was young and fresh, and several young women of the court had gathered in Atlantis’ chambers to prepare for the evening’s festivities.  It was a tradition, and this year, Atlantis could feel the excitement radiating through her, represented by the warm blush on her cheeks. The girls each were gifted with a gown and all accessories from Atlantis' own closet, and each of them left feeling like a princess. Together they would attend the first musical gala of the season joining the young men of the court, then later, with all the best tools a woman carries, charm, wit, beauty, laughter and flirtation, the party would continue amidst food and dancing till the early hours of the morning.  

 Tonight, she was the Empress, but, she was just a woman as well.  Nicolai had been invited, of course, along with the others currently residing in the apartments of Malbrandor, and Atlantis couldn’t wait to see him.  For this particular evening, she’d chosen a light, summer gown in sage.  It was shorter, coming just to below her knee, made with light and airy fabrics, the gown was gathered at her waist with a cream sash, which matched the ribbon trim, that followed the edge of the gown, but also wrapped itself over her neck in a halter.  Around her neck she wore a choker of cream velvet, adorned with four flowers cut from diamonds. Her hair was pulled back in a scramble of curls, held up elegantly by pearl pins.  She smiled as the girls bustled around her dressing room, gaping and exclaiming over the jewels and the gowns and the shoes.  Moving out of the fray, she spotted Dawniria, her expression serious as she fitted the post of some long, sapphire earrings into her ears.  Atlantis moved toward her, a smile pulling at her features.  She was happy to see Dawniria here, she had been not only strangely absent from court on more than one occasion, but she hadn’t been as connected to Atlantis lately either.  Her usual chatty, gossipy self was gone.  Atlantis couldn’t remember the last time Dawniria had sat with her, regaling her with stories from around the palace.  Atlantis checked herself, of course she had been otherwise occupied as well, but now was a good time to catch up.

      “Do you need a hand with that?” She asked, reaching out to help.  Dawniria’s face snapped up.

“Oh, it’s just giving me a small fight, my Lady.  Nothing I can’t handle.” She replied, breezily. 

“I haven’t seen much of you around, Dawniria.  Have you been home this year?” Atlantis asked.  Dawniria paused for a moment, then her eyes narrowed.  She reached for a brush, and pulled it through her long straight hair in even strokes.

“I’ve been here, my Lady.” She said quickly.  “Just busy.  Someone has to plan the summer events.”

“Of course...”The next question died in Atlantis’ throat. “I...uh...I didn’t know you planned this.  It’s very well done...”Atlantis started the compliment. 

“I didn’t say this event.” Dawniria snapped. “A little brazen for the Empress to be going out without a veil.” She changed the subject.  Atlantis couldn’t decide if Dawniria was teasing or reprimanding her.

“Marria has one, I’m sure.  It’s only proper.” Atlantis tried to agree.

“Yes...proper.” Dawniria mused, looking Atlantis up and down, before turning her attention back to the mirror.  Atlantis felt a sickening lump rise to her throat.  Did Dawniria know? How could she know?  She had kept her relationship with Nicolai more than a secret.  Atlantis wanted to question her, but this was hardly the place.  It would have to wait.  Atlantis moved away, looking for Marria, who did have the veil.  She tried to listen to Marria’s shallow chatter, but her mind kept running over her conversation with Dawniria. 

 

At long last each girl was ready, hair and gowns and jewels.  They bustled down to the front of the palace where long lines of royal carriages and horses had been procured for the occasion to drive the couples to the theatre.  Andoran had declined an invitation, and so, Kale met her, offering her his arm.  She couldn’t deny that he was handsome, and as he pressed his lips to her gloved hand, she even thought him dashing, but what she wouldn’t give for one look at Nicolai.  Dawniria and Marria accompanied her as well, the conversation was light, but strained in some way.  Atlantis kept wondering if she’d seen Nicolai, and though she was able to keep up with pleasant conversation, she didn’t notice the deep, dark glare that Dawniria was casting in her direction.  Dawniria watched her like a hawk, all the while sparing longing glances at Kale.  Marria sat, lips pursed as she watched the scene.  The distracted Empress, and her wistful attendant – this would take some explaining.

 

Nicolai couldn’t be seen by the Empress, he was quite far back in the procession, with a disgruntled first officer on his arm, who he’d offered more than adequate compensation for joining him for a night at the theatre and apparently hadn’t paid her enough to crack a grin. Along with their party was another gentleman, a robust, pleasant man with a generous smile, and a heavy accent.  He was an ambassador from the Kirlion empire, he told Nicolai, and then proceeded to share story after story of his family and his home.  He got Kuri’s attention, drawing her into talks about starships and their inner workings.  Nicolai kept his gaze sharp for Laina, but so far he hadn’t seen her.  When she’d told him that she would more than likely not be attending, he’d hung on to the small ounce of hope in her voice.  Nicolai looked around for her one more time before they were seated, but still she remained absent.  He had been busy recently, back and forth between the palace and the ship.  He’d tried to contact her, but it seemed that she was busy too.  Just before the beginning of the performance, there were polite applause, as the patrons around him rose to their feet.  Glancing up he followed, as his gaze was drawn to the Empress.  It was true, she was young, but as far as beautiful, he couldn’t tell.  She was garbed in the traditional veil of the Klein Hadar.  The young woman paused and waved briefly before she was seated.  Nicolai assumed that the clean-cut, handsome young man at her side was of course, Kale Farharad.  He’d seen pictures of the man, but never had he looked so professional.  As the curtain was raised, Nicolai sank deeper into his comfortable chair, he wished Laina could be with him, but, he would pay close attention so that he could tell her everything about it. 

     

It was a comedy.  For that, Atlantis was grateful.  She was easily distracted by the drama unfolding on the stage.  Every now and then she scanned the crowd from her balcony, but Nicolai was lost among a sea of faces.  At least she knew he was in attendance, and it was probably better for him not to see her as the empress.  Kale was quiet, at her side.  He’d kept his hand folded over her wrist for nearly the entirety of the performance.  For the sake of politeness, and in avoidance of another unflattering photograph, Atlantis kept still.  She wondered what Andoran would think.  She focused on the characters on stage, a common town gentleman, singing his heart out, to a wealthy lady, proclaiming his undying love.  It made her smile.  Andoran.  She glanced at Kale, and allowed herself to wonder.  She knew that for what her heart loved about Nicolai, she could never keep as her own.  Andoran was a good man, thoughtful, and she had loved him once.  Perhaps he would be the right choice, over Kale.  Perhaps she could be happy with him.  Kale laughed in response to the actors, and unwittingly, caught a smile from Atlantis.  Leaning in her direction, he whispered in her ear.

“I want to speak with you, during the intermission.” He whispered.  Atlantis acknowledged him with a nod.  Their conversations had been brief, since Andoran’s intentions had been announced.  She didn’t have time for the drama of her own life, it was time that she made a choice.  Her heart sank, she couldn't say goodbye to Nicolai, not yet.  Maybe he would understand, maybe he could stay.  The end of the first and second act came quickly, and as she was on her feet with applause, Kale grabbed her hand as the intermission began. “I want to speak with you.” He said, hurriedly.  “Alone.” He emphasized the word, ignoring a flash in Dawniria’s eyes.

“Of course.” Atlantis agreed, dismissing her party so that they might find refreshments before the third act began. 

“It appears I’ve been too hasty.” Kale began, drawing her hands into his. 

“Oh?” Atlantis asked, distracted by the sounds of movement behind her box.  She wanted to try and find Nicolai maybe, if she could.  Give some pretense of an explanation.  She should speak with him. 

“Atlantis, all of this nonsense about your proposal from Andoran, I know what it’s about now.”

“You do?” Atlantis tried to focus her attention on him.

“I do.” Kale moved his hands along her arms, wrapping them around her waist.  “You want the man in your life to fight for you.  I understand that.  You thought I needed some friendly competition.” He kissed the base of her jaw.  Atlantis stared at him, confused.

“Andoran proposed on his own, Kale.” She reminded him.

“Oh of course.  Do you know what we need?” Kale asked quickly.

“What?”

“Some time.  Some time to just get away.”

“To get away?” Atlantis repeated, almost dumbly.  What was he talking about? Atlantis didn't really take vacations. 

“Run away with me.  I have it all arranged, we can go to the Palace at Baloren Ven.  Just you and me, we can leave everyone else, and everything else behind.”  Kale implored her, he gripped her hands in his and pulled her close.  Atlantis paused, absorbing the words.  She could see where he was coming from, and on that level it made sense.  “How can you want to be with me, if we’re never together? Don’t you think it’s time we got to know each other...better?” Kale suggested, running his finger over her jaw. 

“Kale, you mean...” Atlantis regarded him carefully.

“Yes, Atlantis.  That’s exactly what I mean.  Come on, now.  We aren’t children any more, half of your court suspects it, and the other half expects it.  I think it would go a long way to...”

“To making things much more complicated than they already are!” Atlantis finished for him. "You've been after this idea that us being together will solve everything.  What if I just don't love you any more? What if I've grown up?"

“Love isn't like that, it needs to be kindled.  It would be the two of us, and the closest members of our court, that's all.  Give us a chance.”

He held on to her arm, as she stopped and looked at him.  Here she was, in the arms of one of the most handsome, most celebrated bachelors in the entire galaxy, which any woman would be more than happy to have, inviting her not only to his bed, but to be his wife.  What was she refusing? He could be kind and gentle, and possibly even offer a way out.  If she married Kale, she would never have to tell Nicolai the truth.  Perhaps she could be loved by one man, and married to another.  It wouldn’t be the first time.  Atlantis shook her head, trying to clear it.  Kale looked at her, expectantly.

“No.  Kale.  The answer is no.” She shook him off of her arm. 

“You’ll share a bed with your lover, but not me.  It’s hardly fair...”

            “I don’t want to talk about this here.”

            “And, here I thought I had a chance. You’re mine for the evening, Atlantis, or have you forgotten?” Kale sneered.

            “Please, Kale!” Atlantis shot back at him, her teeth gritted.

            “It is apparent where you stand.”

            “Not here, Kale.  Tonight is supposed to be for fun.  I’m not going to get into yet another argument with you.” Atlantis buried her hands in her face, rubbing her fingers against her forehead.  “Besides, nothing has been settled yet.  What you want will come, in time...” Before Atlantis could finish she heard the scream.

 

            “Let me tell you something, Captain,” The Kirlion ambassador laughed as he handed Nicolai the cold drink.  “There’s nothing like a vacation to Khal Manar to brighten the poor drudgery of a year behind a desk.  I suppose that’s why I’ve always admired men like you, eager to be out and exploring.” The man exclaimed.

            “Thank you, Julius.” Nicolai raised his glass, he couldn't help but like the man.  The man returned the salutation with his own glass of champagne and drank deeply.  The din in the foyer of the Plantagenet Theater was nearly deafening.  The jovial spirit of the play had set the crowd in a fine mood, even Kuri seemed to be enjoying herself.  The entire mass was looking forward to seeing how the play would end, speculating about how the hero was ever going to resolve the scrape he was in , and eventually win the heart of the girl.  They were commenting on what fine actors were in the play and celebrating the summer season of living.  Nicolai glanced around, the only person he actually expected to see was the empress, famous for her disregard for tradition, she was rumored to mingle among the people at these kinds of performances, but as far as he could tell she was nowhere to be seen.  Julius was calling Nicolai’s attention again. 

            “Tell me, Captain, what do you think of the play?” Nicolai opened his mouth to answer, but before he could a single shot rang out.  Followed by several startled screams, and then pandemonium as more shots were fired, and as people realized what the sound was.  Frantically, Nicolai scanned the crowd for the assailant, but could see nothing.  He glanced back in time to see Julius clutch at his wide chest, blood pressing through his fingers.  A cry of some description escaped Nicolai as he rushed forward to catch the man.  He was gasping, as the glass of champagne tumbled from his fingers.  Julius stumbled forward and as Nicolai supported him, the man slumped to the ground.  The man reached for Nicolai, as the color drained from his face.  “Help...me...”He choked, as his eyes drooped closed.

            “Julius! Julius!” Nicolai shouted, to bring the man back to attention.  He stripped off his jacket and flung it aside.  Tearing off his vest he pressed it to the wound in the man’s chest.  Nicolai was shaking.  He kept shouting, over and over, “I need a doctor!”  The chaos around him blurred, until finally he was pulled aside by the empress’ personal paramedics eager to do their job.  Nicolai watched over their shoulders as they worked frantically.  He’d been shot square in the chest, and as time passed, it became apparent that Julius Bernard, ambassador of the Kirlion had been the only target.  He could see the urgency, replaced by frustration as the medics began to lose the man, and finally, as Julius breathed his last, the sad resolution that he was lost. 

            “Captain?” The voice asked. “Captain?”  Nicolai recognized the voice as belonging to Kuri.

            “Yes?”

            “Are you alright, Sir?”  It was a good question.  Nicolai had seen men die in combat, once in a while, defending themselves and what belonged to them.  Never before had he seen a life stolen right in front of his eyes.

            “I will be.” He replied, his mouth felt like it was full of ashes.

            “Do you want to wash up?” She asked.  He stared at her for a moment, wondering why she would ask.  Looking down, he realized that his clothes and hands were stained with blood. 

            “I would.”

            “Come with me.” Kuri began to lead him through a different crowd now.  Police officers and medics, men bearing insignia he didn’t recognize and of course, a horde of excitement bitten reports, previously assigned only to report on the Empress’ gala evening, and now charged with the task of recording the details of an assassination. Kuri led him to where a station of medics had assembled themselves in order to assist anyone else who had been wounded.  He was given help, and cleaned up.  He was questioned by three different police officers and then asked to wait.  Nicolai complied.  What else was there to do?  A man was dead and an evening ruined. 

            “Captain?”

            “Yes?” Nicolai asked the official looking man standing before him.

            “Sir, the empress would like to see you.” Nicolai’s head snapped up.

            “The empress?” He asked.

            “Yes Sir.”

            “Follow me.” The man directed, and Nicolai stood to his feet.  He followed him back into the theater, across the opposite side of the foyer, to where Julius had died, and through several smaller back rooms.  Pausing at the entrance to one the man looked back.

            “Wait here, please.” He said, and Nicolai nodded.  Through the opened door, Nicolai could hear the porter telling someone in the room, presumably the empress, that he’d arrived.  A quick moment of panic passed through his heart.  Here he was, about the meet the most powerful woman in the galaxy, he was wearing a blood-stained shirt, and his hands were still shaking from the adrenaline coursing through his body.  He tried to pull himself together, tried to remember anything he’d read about royal protocol, but the only thing that flashed through his mind was that he wasn’t supposed to touch her, which he supposed there wouldn’t be much opportunity for.  The only other was that he wasn’t supposed to stand on her right side, or perhaps it was her left.  His thoughts muddled themselves together, and when the porter appeared only a short moment later he was a mess of nerves and misfiring synapses.  He shuffled into the room.

            She was in the center of the room, surrounded by several important looking people.  She was wearing a dark cloak over her shoulders with a hood covering what Nicolai remembered to be an elaborate hair-do. The lower half of her face was obscured by a long veil.  His mouth was dry, and Nicolai couldn’t remember if he should speak.  Fortunately, in he wandered long enough in his musings, and she spoke first.

            “I wanted to thank you, Captain.”

            “My Lady?” Nicolai asked, as he stooped into a bow.

            “I understand you tried to save the ambassador’s life.” The woman spoke gently.

            “I tried, my Lady.  The doctor said there was nothing I could do.” The sadness was evident, Nicolai couldn’t even keep it from spreading all over his face and soaking into his words. 

            “Of course.  You were very brave.”

            “I think you should know, my Lady, he was a good man.  He didn’t deserve this.” Nicolai spoke earnestly. 

            “Thank you, Captain.  I have your carriage waiting.  My men will escort you out.”

            “Thank you.” Nicolai bowed his head again, and turned to leave.  The activity in the room picked up again as the empress was escorted through another door.  Nicolai returned to the palace, exhausted and unable to sleep.

The next forty-eight hours were a blur.  Atlantis was thrown into action, making public announcements, apologies and condolences.  She met several times with representatives of her police force who were quickly tracking down the perpetrator of this vile act.  Speculation took the media by storm, and Atlantis’ staff were busy putting out fires.

The meeting was now verging the precipice of being out of control.  Atlantis’ chief of police was shouting at the Duroc head of security demanding answers in regards to how exactly an armed assassin managed to slip by the security officers for the whole first half of the performance.  The chief, Hallows, was in no mood for public insults and returned them as quickly as they were handed out.  Fingers were being pointed in all directions, and before Atlantis knew it several men from both sides of the table were standing and pointing and shouting.  The door at the back burst open and Marria rushed in.  Her face was ashen, and as if Atlantis was reading her, knew she had troubling news. 

      “My Lady.” Marria paused quickly, only to gulp her breath. “We’ve finally confirmed contact with the emperor of the Kirlion.  He would have a word with you.” The din in the room had quieted to below a whisper, as Atlantis motioned for a screen at the far side of the conference room to be turned on. A grainy image flickered into view.

      “Emperor Deragon.” Atlantis bowed her head respectfully.

“Lady Empress Talerian.”

“My Lord, how may I be of service?” Atlantis asked.

“I trusted my man to you in good faith, Atlantis Talerian.  And what? I wake up to news of this? He is dead? Shot in cold blood?” The emperor was visibly upset, but Atlantis wasn't sure if it was over the fact that his ambassador was dead, or that he had been disturbed.

“My Lord, we are at your mercy.  I know that I cannot make reparations for a man’s life, but, you must know that this attack was not condoned by me. You have my assurances that this assassin will be caught and dealt with accordingly.” Atlantis promised sincerely.

“What are your promises to me? You have obviously denied any hopes of our two people being locked together in a treaty for peace and unity.” The man sniffed.

“I do not wish for the talks to end.  Please, send another man I...”

“Send another?” The emperor laughed. “So that you can murder him too? I hardly think that’s appropriate. As far as I am concerned this is considered an act of war.” Atlantis froze, unsure of what to say.  Her stomach twisted, she knew that he could demand this.  It was well within his right, it was a logical assumption, but she hoped it wouldn’t come to it.

“We do not wish to go to war...”Atlantis started, her voice trembling just slightly. 

“Your wishes are no longer important to us.  I demand a full partisan trade agreement with sixty percent of the holdings, on land and sea for this little mishap.” The emperor was swift in his judgement, and it made the hair on the back of Atlantis’ neck bristle.  He was demanding far too much.  She would not see her workers and trades people go broke trying to support the Kirlion Empire. 

“I understand that you are upset, and as I said before, I cannot make up for the murder of this man, but my people would go hungry at the profit of your Empire.  Now, I’m sure we can hammer out the details of a new agreement, but I cannot agree to those terms.” Atlantis replied evenly.

“Do you think this is a negotiation? The negotiations are over.  You know as well as I, that Khal Manar’s defenses are not what they used to be.  You know that I have a very strong army.  The terms of the agreement are set as previously stated.  The only negotiations you’ll be having are with your people, is to come up with a way to make my demands work.  You have twenty-four hours, my dear, before you accept my offer or I officially declare war.” With that the small screen went blank.  The room was silent.  She knew the emperor was telling the truth.  It wasn’t very often that the Kirlion empire let an opportunity to go to war, go. 

The news sent Atlantis’ officers whirling into action.  There were drafts of agreements, meetings, news briefings, and general chaos.  Atlantis attempted several more times to speak with the Kirlion emperor, but there was no response.  The best that she and her people could assume was that they were preparing for war.  The land and sky defences were set in place, in case the Emperor got a little over anxious.  The hours slipped by like dust blown in the wind, and as the time approached for Atlantis to agree to the terms set forth by the emperor, she happened upon some helpful information, which brought her to the quarters of Kale Farharad.  She waited as her name was announced before entering.  She had asked to speak with Kale alone, and so the room was emptied as she waited before him.

“I’m in trouble, Kale.  I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors just as everyone has.” Atlantis tried to remain calm, collected.  She didn’t want to betray the butterflies battling in her stomach.

“So, it is true.” Kale replied slowly, pouring an amber stream of alcohol into a crystal glass.  He stepped closer to her, a glass in his outstretched hand.  “You’ll need this.” He said, “Things usually get worse before they get better.” Atlantis accepted the glass, but didn’t drink it.  She didn’t think she could without throwing up, a station not very befit of an empress.

“I need your help.” Atlantis said, quietly.  Kale observed the liquid in his glass for a long moment before taking a sip, then wincing.

“You need my help?” Kale repeated, the mock sarcasm heavy in his voice.  “What is it that you think I can do?” He asked.

“I know that the Kirlion Emperor owes you a favor.” Atlantis offered.  His very demeanor frustrated her.  She could feel him playing her for all that he wanted.  This wasn’t going to be an easy deal to make. 

“As a matter of fact, he does.” Kale replied, taking a seat.  He motioned for Atlantis to join him, and she did. 

“Can you fix this, Kale?”Atlantis asked him directly, unwilling to play any more games.  Kale considered her question for a long moment before answering.

“Most likely.” He said, easing closer to her.

“I’m willing to deal with you, Kale.  I am willing to completely eradicate any strings of the Lorandon accord, and grant you rights to several of our open markets.” Atlantis tried to keep the desperation from creeping into her voice, but Kale knew, that more than anything Atlantis didn’t want to go to war.

“Do you really think that I need to make a deal with you, in order for me to want to help you?”

“It is mutually beneficial...”Atlantis argued, afraid that she might be losing him.

“I would be happy to speak with the Kirlion emperor for you, so that Khal Manar might put this whole messy business behind them.” Kale replied, smoothly.

“You would do that?”

“Of course.  You think so little of me, Atlantis.” Kale sounded offended.

“What would you want in return?” Atlantis asked, eager to get to his terms.  Time was running out, and she knew that if she missed the deadline by even a second, she would be up against a declaration of war.

“I don’t ask anything in return from my own family.  That would be ludicrous.” Kale drank deeply again.

“I’m not your family.” Atlantis reminded him, quickly.

“Marry me, and you’ll be my family.” Kale answered easily.  Atlantis sat back, rubbing her face with her hands.

“So, those are the terms.” She asked, her mouth sounded dry, like gravel being ground into dust. 

“Fair enough, I would think.” She caught the victorious tone in his voice.  It was like he’d played her from the moment she’d walked though the door.  There was nothing to be done, but accept.  If she didn’t, no matter what outcome the war had, Atlantis knew that Khal Manar would be torn to pieces. 

“That’s blackmail.” As soon as Atlantis spoke them, the words seemed redundant.  Of course it was blackmail.  It wasn’t something that Kale had counted on, but it made sense for him to use what he needed.  Kale cocked his head to the side and smiled at her.  As much as it was charming, it was calculating.

“Don’t think of it that way, my dove.” His tone was patronizing. 

“Leave it to you to take advantage of my poor situation.” Atlantis snapped.

“Such a pessimist.  A bad situation is just an opportunity for the better.” Kale defended.  Atlantis sucked in a deep breath, pulling at the gown that had wrapped itself around her ankles, she stood to her feet.  Kale trailed after her. “Really, Atlantis? You’re considering war over getting married to me?”

“How can you guarantee that this war will dissolve once I accept?” Atlantis asked, turning abruptly to face him.  A slow, conniving smile crept over Kale’s lips.

“So, it’s really not about sentiment with you after all, is it?” Kale replied. Atlantis didn’t miss the cynicism in his tone.  “All I had to do was make you a better offer.”

“If you end this war, I’ll marry you.” Atlantis crossed her arms over her chest.  Kale’s smile deepened.  It wasn’t a happy smile, he was triumphant or victorious like he’d finally conquered her.  He crossed the floor the short distance to where she stood, and cupped her face in his hands.

“Oh, you’ve made me very happy.  I look forward to discussing the particulars with you.” The sarcasm was heavy, like the smell of garlic on his breath.  She felt his hands on her, running down her shoulders, then her arms.  He moved to her waist, and drew her closer. “What sort of insurance policy are you offering?” He whispered into her ear. “Don’t you think you ought to make a down payment of some sort, in case once this war goes away you decide that this impetuous decision just won’t stand.” She caught his meaning. Indignant, Atlantis pushed him off of her.  Her cheeks were flushed pink, fury sparked in her eyes.

“You have my word, and for now that will have to do.” She snapped.  As she turned to leave, he caught her by the arm.  She tried to wrench it away, but he held fast.

“At your hand, I have suffered both humiliation and rejection, and still I’ve returned over and over begging for your heart. One day, not very long from now, you will make payment on what you owe.  And, it will be on my terms, Atlantis.  Not yours.” Kale threatened.  Atlantis gave one final tug of her arm, and stalked toward the door.  And this is how Atlantis Talerian came to be engaged to Kale Farharad, for the second time.

Atlantis’ head was spinning.  She’d been awake for nearly twenty four solid hours, and had just sat down in the private office of her personal quarters to once again go over the facts from the day.  She’d finally received confirmation that Kale had managed to stave off eminent war with the Kirlion empire, as well as re-direct their feelings about the pending trade agreement.  Atlantis doubted that she would ever ask, but it must have been some favor owed to Kale.  She had just decided that she might even lie down and try to sleep for a short time, when there was a knock at the door.  Marria poked her head in.

“My Lady?” She asked.

“Yes Marria?”

“The chief of police is here to see you.  He has news about the assassination.” Marria reported.

“Please, send him in.” Atlantis tried to straighten up just briefly, and smooth her hand over her frazzled hair.  The man appeared, his hat tucked under his left arm.  He bowed deeply, and Atlantis called him forward.

“I’m happy to see you, Captain.  I understand you have news?” She asked, folding her hands over her desk.

“I do, my Lady.” His name was Captain George Harlow.  He was new as the acting police chief, and had only one brief audience with Atlantis before.  She could tell that he was nervous.  Atlantis motioned to a seat, and he took it.

“Please, go ahead, Captain.”

“After investigating the crime scene, my officers apprehended a person of interest shortly after the assassination occurred.  He was found with the weapon in his possession, and after a lengthy questioning period, this man made a confession.” The officer explained.

“I am glad to hear that, Captain.” Atlantis smiled.  Relief flooded her, justice would be answered.

“His name is Soren DePalo, and his family is from a farm on the outskirts of Khal Manar.  Recently Mr. DePalo has found himself in trouble not only with his family but also with some of the money lenders.  He owed a great debt, and his farm was going to be taken from him if he did not produce a large sum to cover his debt.  The reason his questioning took so long was because he was protecting the man who hired him.” The Captain explained.  Atlantis nodded.  He was a hired assassin.  She’d expected something along those lines.  It fit with the scenario. 

“So, it is imperative that the man responsible for this be taken into custody as well.” Atlantis said quickly.

“He has, my Lady.” The Captain looked at his hands.  He was obviously uncomfortable.

“I’m glad to hear it.  Who is it?”

“Lord Andoran Grey, your Majesty.” The Captain replied gravely.  It was no secret that Grey had been interested in her affections.  Atlantis squinted, as if she hadn’t understand what he’d said.

“Andoran Grey planned this?” She repeated, her thoughts crashing together, rocking as if they were a child’s boat caught in a hurricane. “I...you have proof, I assume.”

“He’s confessed as well, my Lady.”  Even though she was sitting, Atlantis had to brace herself against her desk.  It took time for the man's words to register+? He orchestrated a bullet that would have brought war to her Empire, the empire he loved.  There had to be some other explanation.  Suddenly, Atlantis felt sick.  Desperately, she tried to gather her wits.  She glanced up to see Marria, standing by the door, at her usual post.  Marria took a step forward.

“Thank you, Captain.” She said.  The Captain stood, bowed again, and left.  Atlantis was shaking, she was furious and devastated and before she knew it, tears were gathering in the corners of her eyes and tumbling down her cheeks. 

“My Lady...”Marria started, but Atlantis interrupted.

“Get him.”

“What?”

“Bring him to me.” Atlantis said, her voice deathly quiet.   

 

     

            It was a big room, void of most furniture,typically used for when Atlantis would host smallish get-togethers in an intimate setting.  It was on the second floor, and the far wall was flanked by seven ceiling to floor windows.  The sun had just set, and twilight blanketed the city.  On a normal night, one might pause and admire the city of Dalik Noir, but tonight, Atlantis didn’t even see it.  Andoran had betrayed her, she had so many questions, so many demands, she hoped that she could see through her own emotion to pass his sentence.  Typically she left these decisions to the judges of the land, and only in particular cases, did she take the role of judge on herself.  Marria had pressed her hand to Atlantis’ arm as they’d walked.

            “Can you do this?” She’d asked, the concern obvious in her voice.

            “I don’t know.” Atlantis had barely been able to speak the words.  It was the truth, she didn’t know.  Andoran was as close to her as her own brother, and this would be the hardest thing she’d ever done.  She couldn’t understand why.  She’d been considering his proposal, like he’d said it was a way out for her.  It might have taken some time to end things with Kale, but if that was what she’d decided, she would have done it.  Loving Andoran was something that had always been easy for her.  She heard the door open, and turned slowly.  Andoran entered in a way that she’d never seen him before, awkward and stumbling.  The irons on his ankles and wrists limited his movement.  She expected to see a man defeated, crushed, but instead it was the opposite.  He stopped in the center of the room, his face placid, and bowed his head to her.

            “Calhara.” He said, purposefully.  He wanted Atlantis to remember who he was to her.

            “Lord Grey.”  Atlantis crossed the floor to meet him. “The chief of police tells me that you have confessed to murder by way of a hired assassin.  Is this true?” She asked.

            “Yes.” Andoran replied, as calmly as if they were discussing weather.  His demeanour almost threw her. She didn’t know how to respond, she could feel tears in the corners of her eyes, as her stomach ground together.  She felt like she might be sick.  In the very least she expected him to deny these allegations, to prove to her that he had been falsely accused, but he did not.

            “Andoran!” She blurted. “How could you?” The tears fell then, streaking her cheeks.

            “Don't cry, Calhara.  I did it for us.” Atlantis’ eyes widened as he spoke.  Her stomach clenched again, and she sucked in a breath like he’s stabbed her in the chest. 

            “What?” The word escaped from her parched throat.

            “I was right, wasn’t I? I knew that at the first provocation the Kirlion would demand a price far too great for us to pay.  I knew that you had to see that for yourself.” Andoran relayed, the pride of what he’d accomplished evident in his voice. 

            “Andoran, you killed a man!” Atlantis exploded. He brushed her off with a wave of his hand.

            “Hardly a man, Calhara.  An Alien.”

            “No, Andoran, a man with a wife and children.  He is gone forever.  There is nothing that even I can do to make up for what you’ve stolen from them.” She snapped. 

            “Be that as it may, He didn’t belong here, and you saw how Oritious reacted.  He used the man’s death to his advantage and threatened you with war.  That is what the Kirlion are like, it’s what they’re all like.” Andoran explained.

            “You knew this would happen.” Atlantis stepped back, amazed.

            “Of course I did.” Andoran nearly chuckled. “But you had to see that it would.  I did this for us, Atlantis.  For our Empire.  We don’t have to be worried any more about the influences of others.  Finally Khal Manar can sustain herself.” Andoran exhorted.  A dark cloud settled over Atlantis’ features.  As it was known to many, the reports detailed that Atlantis had been able to barter peace with the Kirlion Empire.  The announcement of her engagement to Kale would follow within a week or so, in case the two events be suspiciously connected.  Kale didn’t want it to seem to anyone that Atlantis was being forced to marry him against her will.  Andoran was unaware that it had taken Kale to barter the appropriate peace.  Atlantis shook her head slowly, burying her face in her hands.

            “Don’t worry so much, Calhara.  Punish the perpetrator of this crime until the Kirlion forget the whole thing then give the man a medal, and no one has to know that I had anything to do with it.  You can marry me, and send Kale back to that hole he crawled out of, and we can finally run this empire with precision and all of the resources available at our fingertips.” Andoran reached for her, but Atlantis shrank back.  She was shaking her head.

            “Andoran, what have you done?” She asked, the sting in her words made him pause.  As if he was looking at her for the first time, he read her face.  She was crying in earnest now.  That was part of the reason she knew she had to be alone with him.  She couldn’t let the rest of the court see her dissolve like a baby in front of him.

            “What do you mean? I did this for us...”

            “You mean, you did it for you.  You think that the Kirlion were placated so easily? You think I was able to fend off a war by giving only a small fraction of what we promised them?”

            “They wouldn’t have declared war...”

            “Oh, no?”

            “Well, they didn’t, did they?”

            “Kale was able to stop it.” Atlantis admitted.  She watched the color drain from Andoran’s face.

            “Kale?”

            “You did this for us, did you? A strange plan that would put me in the arms of another man for the rest of my life.” Atlantis informed him quietly. 

            “You accepted his proposal?”

            “I had no other choice.”

            “Why did you not come to me? I could have explained everything.”

            “You may find this surprising, but it’s difficult to run to the man who the police are fingering for assassination.” Atlantis replied quickly.

            “Tell me you don’t love him.”

            “Why is that any concern of yours?”

            “Would I have had your hand in marriage?” Andoran asked, the defeat clear in his voice.

            “I don’t see how that’s relevant...”

            “It is relevant for me.” Andoran interrupted.  Atlantis paused for a long moment considering how to answer.  How had she truly felt? Would she have really been able to marry the man who was more her brother, than ever a lover? She remembered the night that he kissed her, remembered the slow churning of her stomach as her skin prickled at his touch.  She’d felt cold at his passion, rather than fire.  Her mouth was dry and she ran her tongue slowly over her lips.  Biting her bottom lip, she looked into his eyes.

            “Andoran...” her voice faded for a moment, but he caught her meaning and across his face splashed betrayal. 

            “You love me, Calhara.” He insisted, reaching for her hand.  He was desperate, as if some constructed reality were crumbling before his eyes.

            “I do, Andoran, I love you like the brother I never had.” The truth stung like a whip, and Andoran tore his hand from her.

            “You’re lying. I will never believe that you prefer him.”

            “What does it matter? You are closed off from me forever now.”

            “There must be a way, Atlantis.  The love I have for you wouldn’t befit a brother for a sister.  You must know that.” Andoran pleaded.

            “You’re never to return Andoran.  Never back to Khal Manar.”

            “I’m banished then.”

            “Better than dead.”

            “I may as well be dead.”

            “Goodbye, Andoran Grey.” Atlantis turned and left him, never to look on him again.