Those fools readily agreed and offered assurances that they would capture and imprison the woman. They would try to insure her safety but could make no promises. This was war after all – and in war there were casualties.
*****
Meggy’s campaign to get Egg elected went pretty much according to plan. Her surrogates – namely the Hameggattic Sisters – were regarded with near universal awe and respect. Getting the citizenry to stop what they were doing to listen to their spiel was like having your absolute favorite movie star stop you on the street and ask for few minutes of your time.
Who would refuse?
But what was unusual was the consistency of their response. First, there was shock that Queen M-egg’Alynnia was abdicating the Throne. The young woman was well regarded. She was the daughter of the much-beloved Rose’Alynnia. She was a Hameggattic Sister and had risked her life to rescue her father and to once-and-for-all rid them of that fiend Mobius. And, they admired her less formal approach to governing Aerianna. The younger generations could more easily relate to someone closer to their own age.
However, since the Queen was determined to relinquish the Crown, they were ecstatic that Lady Eloise was putting her name forward to replace her sister. Few of the citizens really believed that she didn’t know that was happening, though they appreciated the pretense. It seemed more romantic that the population’s adulation for the phenomenal woman elevated her by popular demand to Queen-hood.
The girls tried to set the record straight but gave up when it became apparent no one believed them.
Before they left each group, the sisters asked the citizens if they would do them one favor. At Tee’ka’s suggestion, there would be a farewell ceremony for Meggy and they – the Hameggattic Sisters – would take it as a personal favor if everyone would attend. Based on the response the girls received, the turnout promised to be staggering.
*****
After a few days, the only person left to challenge Egg was Kru-Ella. But she hardly had a campaign to speak of. She organized a handful of dinner parties for her ‘Noble’ friends and pitched them on her candidacy.
“Lady Eloise is not a true Aeriannian. She’s an outsider whose only claim to nobility is her marriage to the Prince. She was brought up as a commoner and knows little of our ways and customs. This program of hers, where we must give up our valuable time to help the poor wretches that perform manual labor, is an insult to our class. It must stop . . . she must be stopped. Can you imagine what else she will have us do once she ascends the Throne? I cringe at the prospect. You all know me . . . have known me my entire life. I am one of you. Let us put an end to this madness and pass the Crown to those that truly know how to rule.”
Half the crowd applauded enthusiastically.
The other half looked uncomfortable and just pretended to clap to avoid a scene.
One, however, was outraged. Rap’tor felt embarrassed that he once thought of himself and his fellow nobles as superior beings. Kru-Ella was living proof that they were not. It was an accident of birth that some had the resources to follow their dreams. How many minds were wasted because of this? How many great inventions or innovations would not see the light of day because great wealth was inherited by a few?
If anyone could lead them all to a better future, it was Lady Eloise.
Chapter 5 – Viva la Revolution
Aboard the Royal Yacht
“Tell me Zwam, what was your profession before you became the general of the revolution?”
The blue woman stared in amazement at her former hostage. “Am I such a terrible soldier that you should ask such a question?”
Egg smiled. “Just a lucky guess. I get the feeling you would rather be doing something else. Anything else but starting a war.”
“I am . . . or was . . . a clan leader. When we decided that something must be done to help our people, I was asked to negotiate with the other two planets of the Outer Reaches to see if they were willing to join us.”
“Are you married?”
“No. I understand the concept, but it does not apply to my species at this point in our evolution. When the time is right, we simply find a suitable mate. After our children reach maturity, we go our separate ways. Does that offend you?”
“Why would it offend me?”
“We have been told that it is barbaric. The other worlds seem horrified at the concept.”
Egg shocked the woman by laughing. “Sorry, but it’s so ironic that it’s amusing.”
“I do not understand?”
“These other worlds think so much of themselves as if they are at the pinnacle of evolution and anyone that is different is presumed to be inferior. The universe is kind of a big place and there are – for all practical purpose – an infinite number of inhabited planets. My guess is that our little Federation wouldn’t be considered that advanced compared to others.”
“Have you met any?”
“Some. On a world called Splendora, we met a Rak’nex – it looks like a giant spider but with no mouth. It eats electromagnetic radiation and communicates with twinkling lights. In fact, they’re a lot like you guys.”
“In what way?”
“They were just bugs with no self-awareness until scientists on a neighboring world built a device that forced them to sentience.”
“We are not bugs,” replied the offended woman.
“No, no. What I mean is that they were early in their evolutionary cycle. With the help of friends (a bit of poetic license on Egg’s part on this), they began to reach their full potential. Now, they’re so smart that they can harvest the energy from Black Holes. Do you know what those are?”
“Gravitational wells. There is one not far from the Outer Reaches. So, your point is that our species can accelerate its evolution if others would help?”
“Um . . . yes and no.”
“You confuse me.”
“Sorry. You need the Federation’s help . . . we both can agree on that. But I don’t think you want their scientists messing around with your natural development.”
“Because?”
“Because it wouldn’t be natural. Let nature take its course. In the meanwhile, use the social and scientific resources of the Federation to make your lives less difficult. It will also influence your natural development but in a less traumatic fashion. It’s like nudging a person to go in the right direction instead of dragging him. Does that make sense?”
Once again, the General stared at Egg’s face. Finally, she asked, “Why do you care? Is it because you are a queen?”
“Actually, I’m not a queen. Apparently, I was elected by the people but I never asked for the job. I can’t understand why they chose me. I’m not qualified. Like you, I just lead my clan . . . and that happens to be the Hameggattic Sisters. I can’t govern an entire world.”
The other woman let out a screech . . . apparently her version of a laugh. “You jest.”
“No. Why do you say that?”
“I have known you for not quite an hour. In that time, you have convinced me to spare your crew, transfer my flag to your vessel, place my men under your command, release you as my prisoner and to follow you into war. How is that possible? I will answer my own question. It is because you elicit trust. Your goodness, your sincerity and your abilities are palpable,” and her tongue shot out as if to underscore her point. “I am in awe.”
“Thanks, but that’s just goofy talk. I’m just not that special.”
“Has anyone told you that without a conscious effort, you wear your modesty like a suit of armor?”
“Not exactly in those words. Normally I get comments like, ‘Your modesty is obnoxious, so quit it.” They both laughed.
“One day, I would like to visit your world if that is acceptable.”
“I promise you that day will come in the not-to-distant future. Did you know that the capital city of Aerianna floats two miles above the ground?”
“Is that true?”
“Yes. It really is as spectacular as
it sounds. Anyway, can I ask you something?”
“Of course.”
“Who betrayed me?”
“Someone who claims to be our ally.”
“Do you still believe that?”
“Not in the least.”
“Will you tell me who it was?”
“We were told that the information came from someone named Molly.” Kru-Ella, in her infinite evilness, thought it would be such fun if Egg thought she was betrayed by one of her close friends. A Hameggattic Sister would never be believable. But blaming Molly – considering her past with the Prince – would have an element of truth about it.
Egg turned white at the name. “I don’t believe it.”
“She is a friend?”
“Yes. Syl – my best friend – and I saved her and her mother from a terrible life. She would never betray me.”
“Then whoever did wanted to place a seed of doubt in your mind. Who would be so evil?”
“I don’t . . . um, I don’t . . .” She stopped then smiled. “Actually, I think I do know. Her name is Kru-Ella, a noble woman who really, really dislikes me.”
“What will you do?”
Egg turned the question back on the other woman. “What would you do?”
“Treason is punishable by death on most worlds of the Federation.”
“What about on yours?”
“No. We do not believe in capital punishment.”
Egg stood up, walked over to the General and gave her a hug. “I think you have a lot to teach those other worlds. As for Kru-Ella, I think we can find a more appropriate punishment for her crimes.”
*****
There was a knock on the door and Captain Ax’gard walked in carrying Ziz. “You asked to see me, Your Majesty?”
“I did. First, Ziz, get over here.”
The dragonetta launched itself off the Captain’s shoulder and landed on Egg’s. “I missed you,” she squawked.
“It’s only been about twenty minutes, you silly bird,” Egg said with a smile.
“I don’t own a watch.”
That caused all three people to smile. “Enough. Just sit quietly please.” To the Captain she asked, “How’s it going with the General’s men?”
“Permission to talk freely?”
“Yes . . . but with diplomacy,” advised Egg.
“Yes, Ma’am. The General’s people are not soldiers.” That pretty much said it all.
“They are not,” confirmed the General. “That individual I assigned to you, Your Majesty . . . his name is Pog . . . he was a school monitor before this rebellion began.”
Egg smiled. “It was his job to keep the kids in line, I’m guessing.”
“Exactly. He treats everyone as if they are youthful wrongdoers.”
“That explains a lot.” To the Captain she said, “Kreed, please take a seat.” To Zwam, Egg explained, “The Captain is a friend. He is in a relationship with my best friend Sylvia.”
The blue woman yet again stared intently at Egg. “He was never an admiral, was he?”
“No. Well, technically yes. I gave him a field promotion a few minutes before you boarded.”
“For my benefit, I assume?”
“Thought you might think it odd that I was traveling without an appropriate escort.”
“And that mechanical animal . . . is it more than it seems?”
“A little more, but she is not an offensive weapon. Apparently, she was upgraded before this voyage. I found out about that an hour ago. She can communicate with one of my sisters; she can put up a protective force field to protect herself . . . things like that. She is also carrying my ring.”
Zwam looked at Egg’s hand and realized she had missed the fact that they bore no jewelry. “It is the famous ring that makes you Flying Girl?”
“Yup. Ziz, give me my ring please.” The hidden compartment sprung open and Egg retrieved it. She was about to put it on then thought better of it. Instead she extended her hand to the General. “Would you like to see it?”
Zwam’s eyes grew bigger. “I have much to learn from you.”
“Excuse me?”
“You are offering me an object that you find almost sacred. It is the ultimate act of trust. Thank you, but I am not worthy to hold such a treasure.”
“In truth, you could not make it work. It only responds to my DNA. Would you like to see what it does?”
“I would be honored.”
“Ring, tend to my suit.” Zwam reflexively pushed back in her chair at the sight of the grey fog. When it cleared, she stared almost in disbelief at Flying Girl.
“Such wonders!”
“The technology was created a thousand years ago. It can’t be reproduced.”
“Good. There should be only one Flying Girl.”
“Why do you say that?”
“The science allows you to fly . . . but your spirit is what makes you unique. I doubt there will be others like you in my lifetime.”
“Okay, stop. You’re back to goofy talk. Ring, tend to my suit,” and the process was reversed. To the captain she asked, “By the way, I presume Syl told you about this little campaign to elect me queen.”
“She may have mentioned it in passing.”
“Yeah, right.” She then turned serious. “Kreed, the planets of the Outer Reaches are inhabited by trans-evolutionary beings. Did you know that?”
“Yes, Ma’am.”
“Did you know that most of the Federation considers them inferior? They refuse to help them in any way to improve their lives.”
“I am aware of their . . . standing . . . amongst the Federation. I was not aware they were refused help.”
“The General has asked for my assistance. I intend to call the President of the Federation very soon to hear his side of the story. Perhaps all this can be cleared up easily and quickly . . . and without war.”
“May I ask if you have a plan B?”
“You don’t think diplomacy is going to work?”
“Honestly, you can’t legislate away prejudice.”
“I can see why Syl finds you interesting. She likes a man that can think.”
Without realizing, he was falling into a casual patter about a personal matter, he replied, “She is so amazing as you well know. She is so bright, so quick . . . I have to mentally run to keep up with her. The really weird thing is she never stops smiling. She radiates more brightly than a star.”
Zwam was intrigued with the Captain’s comments. Her kind didn’t really know love. “Do you intend to mate with her?”
For a moment, the unflappable Kreed was dumfounded and his mouth flopped open. He turned to Egg for help.
“Don’t look at me. Answer the General’s question.”
“EGG!”
“She’s waiting.”
The red-faced man cleared his throat. “At some point in the foreseeable future, I will most likely ask the young lady to marry me. If she agrees, I am sure that we will raise a family when the time is right. Does that answer your question, General?”
“Why did my question embarrass you?”
Egg was beginning to see why the people of the Outer Reaches were having a difficult time with the ‘more civilized’ planets. “I’ll answer that, if you don’t mind Captain.”
“Oh, I don’t mind in the least.”
“Whereas the act of procreation is a simple matter-of-fact in your culture, for many worlds, it is not discussed in such overt terms. We have a courtship ritual to see if two individuals are emotionally compatible. If they are and they so choose, they join together in a legal covenant we call marriage. For most, the primary reason to do so is to reproduce and raise their offspring. But the actual biological act is not discussed with others. That would be considered inappropriate.”
Zwam turned to look at Kreed – apparently for confirmation.
“What she said.” he blurted.
The blue lady shook her head sadly. “Maybe the other worlds are right. Maybe we should leave the Federation
and go our own way.”
“Nonsense. It’s diversity that makes the Federation stronger. And you guys are certainly diverse. No, they need to change as much as you need to learn. So, Captain, if I can’t convince them of the errors of their way, I intend to conquer the Federation.”
“Say what?” The poor guy was getting ever more flappable.
“You heard me. I’m going to lead this revolution. However, I don’t expect you and your crew to participate. The General will send you home in one of the other vessels.”
“Can I ask you a question?”
“Ask away.”
“Have you ever seen Benny when he’s really, really, really, really angry?”
Egg smiled. “I’ve only gotten him up to three really’s. Why?”
“Because if I leave you here to fend for yourself, I cringe at the thought of what he’ll do to me. It’s much safer to go to war with you. So, I’m in.”
“And your people?”
“If there are any conscientious objectors, we can send them home. I wouldn’t bet on any, if I were you.”
“May I ask, who is Benny?”
“He’s referring to Prince Ben’Edikk, my husband.”
“Ah. The father of your child.”
“What? No, I don’t have children.”
I think we’re all getting pretty used to Zwam’s stare and the darting tongue. “Did you not know?”
“Know what?”
“You are with child.”
“NO!”
*****
“I sense that you are very early in the gestation cycle.”
“How early?”
“Perhaps a few weeks, maybe more.”
Egg slapped her hands over her face which was turning red. Her mind had immediately conjured up the image of her and her husband when they were at Se’rene. They had been drinking champagne and swimming in the indoor pool usually reserved for serpents. It was the same pool where the original sisters had played Marco Polo all those years ago.
Between the bubbly and splashing and the giggling . . . well, as they say on Earth . . . stuff happens.
“Oh boy.”
“No, it is a girl.”
“What?”
“You said boy. It is not. You will have a daughter.”
Gracie - Box Set #6, Part 2 of Ever After [an Egg and the Hameggattic Sisterhood novel] Page 25