Righteous Reign The Series: E-version Boxed Set Edition

by Thomas J. MacDonald

  When the day finally arrived, all but one Frigate were attached to the Fleet and at least eighty percent staffed. The last ships landed laden with passengers for the wedding. These were all the final guests. There were constant comments from them about the service they were experiencing amongst the Fleet, and the love the personnel seemed to have for the Fleet Commander. This aspect became part of a major story about the day before the wedding, in which, they interviewed George, Marie, Marie's parents, Admiral Stephenson, the Emperor and finished with the two flower girls.

  The wedding itself was entirely recorded for replay on Rigil, Earth, and the other member planets, by the networks. It was a site to behold. George, accompanied by his best man and ushers was announced by the Sergeant at Arms as they entered the Columbia's Bridge from his Bridge Office door and took their places on the elevated stage. All but civilians and the bride were dressed in full OESA dress uniforms. Attendees filled the spacious compartment and spilled out into the corridor. As the five-piece orchestra began Wagner's traditional "Bridal Chorus" the Sergeant at Arms announced the bride, her father, the handmaids and the flower girls who made the slow-step march to the altar from the boardroom doorway to the Flag Bridge. Once Marie was in place by her future husband with her father and bridesmaids at her side, the Emperor stepped into place just behind and to the far right end of the groomsmen. Olivia delivered the traditional ceremony that included the honor of a ship's captain to join couples in the lifelong bond of matrimony. When she called for the rings, Edward III stepped to Bryant's left presenting the bride's wedding ring to him. George placed it on her finger. He then offered Marie the groom's ring, which she slid onto George's ring finger. The crowd was treated to one hell of a passionate kiss when it was finally called for by Captain Hurst. Then the party stepped over to the registry, which had been brought from Rigil, and signed it making the marriage official. Large square confetti filled the air as the bride and groom headed for the exit.

  The ceremony was followed by a small gathering of the newly married couple, the wedding party, Marie's parents, her cousins, the Emperor, the C&C and the Quadrant Commanders that were not part of the matrimonial party. Time was taken to have a few drinks together while George and Marie presented each with very unique gifts as a thank you for their participation. The one that touched everyone the most was when George gave the Emperor his "Medal of Courage."

  "This was bestowed on me to honor my courage. The event and reason are unimportant, to me, because I don't feel like I was ever a hero. That being said, it is our way to honor those who perform under pressure.' George paused and turned to Edward. 'Sir, I present this to you because I feel I should pass it on to someone with more courage. You and your family have always had the courage that allowed our civilization to survive and flourish. If not for you, there would not have been a George Bryant to receive it in the first place. I do value this award, and I am honored to be in your service. This is my attempt to honor you. I am just one of half-a-trillion subjects who love you and feel this way. You have always performed under pressure for us." With it was a special OESA certification.

  "Though it is normally the policy of the OESA and the Orion Empire that no meritorious award may be sold, gifted, or held by other than the original recipient, we herein give special dispensation to George T. Bryant to pass this reward to Emperor Edward III in honor of his meritorious service to the Orion Empire. This action is taken with all our loyalty, love and affection, this 23rd day of July 2248 in recognition of all he has done for his people." It was signed by the First Minister, the Secretary of Defense, the C&C, the Quadrant Commanders, and all the Theatre Commanders with a special place for George and Marie.

  "I guess I can't have anyone charged for doing this. I'd have to throw the entire government and the OESA into the brig for this - leaving us totally unprotected.' The Emperor started with a chuckle as he wiped tears from his cheeks and eyes. 'I would like to thank you all for this, but especially George and Marie. I know how much his career means to him so I know this really meant a lot to George. I will treasure it and the certificate always. I also want to thank the happy couple for inviting me and allowing me to play a role in their ceremony. I will treasure that memory forever too.' He raised his wine glass and continued. 'To George and Marie, I wish to offer my heartfelt congratulations, on this special day, and my wishes for the very best for them in each and every day that follows for the rest of their lives. I hope, we can all be together to celebrate their fiftieth anniversary, when it arrives. We all love you, George and Marie.' He elevated the glass, took a small sip, then, went on. 'I have one more thing I want to announce, though everyone might take back my award for spilling the beans. Later today, it is to be announced officially that Marie Bryant will be elevated to the rank of Commodore and appointed to the position of Headquarters Commander of the Counseling Department. This was a determination made earlier but held until now so that Mrs. Bryant would be allowed to assume her Command with her husband in Boots Fleet. Had this promotion been granted earlier, she would have been relocated to Rigil to fill the post. Congratulations Captain Bryant on your impending elevation and reassignment. Now that there are two Flag Officers in the family, you'll have to work hard at making us a few little Admirals to admire." He raised his glass for another sip as the entire room responded a resounding "Rah" for Marie Bryant.

  The press played up that announcement - big time. There were headlines like, "Admirals Marry," "Whose Flag Do They Sleep Under," "Royal Wedding," and "Prince Marries Countess." Regardless of the attempted humor, the images did justice to the moment. It certainly appeared to be a Royal Wedding.

  The C&C, First Minister, and Defense Secretary met with the Emperor, in a secret meeting between the private celebration and the reception. There was a great round of back slapping that went on in that room. They were ecstatic over the elevation this event gave the image of the OESA. They all felt that George and Marie were the ultimate faces to represent it.

  The reception is difficult to describe. Most of the arrangements for it were handled by Moe. After his previous adventures, it goes without saying that, it was a stellar event. All but ten Raptors were moved and lashed outside the hangars of each Carrier. The remaining ten fighters sat in the launch tunnels of each vessel - out of sight, but ready to go just in case. The Columbia, Grenada, Dominica and El Salvador's hangars were all decorated and outfitted identically for the meal. Each sported a five-piece orchestra to play soft mealtime and a variety of dance music through the evening. Each was to repeat its entire sequence at midnight so the majority of the Fleet could attend the meal.

  When it all started, the main head table was on the Columbia. Bill Stephenson rose first.

  "Good evening folks, I hope you're all enjoying yourselves. Most of us only attend an event like this once in a lifetime, so let's make it count. I want to tell you that I knew this would happen. I could see George had flipped for Marie the first time they met. It was for a meeting at my office, and this athletic, coordinated guy tripped over everything on his way in. He was so red, I thought he was just another thermometer in the Rigilian heat. And Marie too. She worked for me, so I was used to seeing her. But, not like this. She was breathing heavy and light headed. And, she kept calling me, George. So, when he asked to promote her and move her to his Fleet, I knew what was up. He said it was business, but I knew better. She said it was business, too. Can you believe that? Then I heard he even spoke French to impress her dad. I can tell you, I never thought of that one when I was trying to impress my dates' fathers. That's a new one. At least now they've done the right thing. They don't need to hide, anymore. What am I saying? They never could hide with all that press they get.' By this time the crowd was in stitches. Some were laughing so hard tears were streaming down their cheeks, including George and Marie. 'Okay, it's time to get serious. These are the greatest two young people I ever knew. They are smart, loyal and honorable. It is a good match. And the OESA isn't losing an Admiral. It's gaining a team o
f Flag Officers.' Bill turned to face them. 'George and Marie, you are loved by your Fleet, by the OESA, by the Emperor, and by all the Empire's citizens. We all wish you decades of happiness together with a love for each other that's undying." He lifted his glass and took a sip to a resounding "Rah" that went through the entire hall.

  "Now, I'd like the groom to say a few words," Bill said and left the podium.

  George rose and approached.

  "After that roast, I think I'm speechless - for the first time in my life. But, I'd like to thank Admiral Stephenson for his best wishes. Most of all, I'd like to tell my beautiful new wife how proud I am of her. She is truly the most wonderful woman in the Empire at this moment - to me, of course - I mean -. Sorry, Emperor Edward, I didn't mean to offend you.' He stammered and feigned a look of fear as everyone roared. 'But, I have to tell you, it's tough having one of your bosses as your best man. Yeah sure, he's a model of an elder statesmen to me. But, he's always running off to the washroom. I wasn't sure he'd be at my side during the wedding.' Bryant said secretively with a sidelong look at the audience as they all roared. 'And, it was a little dangerous up there. You could get serious lacerations on all those medals or hung up on the ribbons and lanyards up there. Being a groom was tough under those circumstances.' He made the pretense of wiping perspiration from his brow as the crowd laughed harder. 'And we almost killed ourselves getting out of there. We couldn't see. Between all the photo flashes and the blizzard of large rectangular confetti visibility was zero. I want to take a minute to express my love to my wife. Marie, you are truly the love of my life.' He said to her; then, turned to the audience and continued quietly. 'But, I want to tell all of you that I was a little scared. When I met Marie, I thought she was this sweet little innocent thing with a great brain. But, when I took her on the Admiral's craft to the Boots Fleet, for the first time, I discovered another side - much tougher - much more sinister. I saw her handle twenty graduate cadets just assigned to the Fleet. She was like a trainer breaking stallions. She was my worst nightmare of a drill sergeant. Those twenty people have never said a sideways word, since. They are scared to death, to this day. So, I can tell you that, I was a bit leery of making this permanent. Please keep an eye on me. Watch for bruises - please.' George paused for effect as the crowd roared, and Marie was laughing so hard she was tearing in her champagne. 'Anyway, it could be worse. I could be marrying Bill Stephenson. But, I want to be serious for a moment. I want to thank the Emperor, the C&C, the Quadrant Commanders and all our friends and family for coming. And I wish to thank you all for your best wishes for us. I especially want to say a few words to Marie's mom and dad. Merci de nous soutenir et de partager votre amour. Vous avez soulevé une femme intelligente, belle et talentueuse que je chérirai toujours. Et pour cela, je vais te chérir, aussi. Bill, don't say a single word! ' George admonished loudly to everyone's laughter. 'For those who didn't understand I will translate. Thank you for supporting us and sharing your love. You raised a smart, talented, and beautiful woman who I will cherish always. And for that, I will treasure you, too.

  Finally, I want to thank Boots Fleet. They are our family, too. We love them all. The good wishes and feelings we have received from so many are greatly appreciated. We will not forget it." George finished and tapped Bill on the shoulder as he returned to his chair. Bill rose to the microphone.

  "Well dad, it's that time that all the brides' fathers dread. It's time to get up and say a few meaningful words." Bill said as he directed an opened hand toward Marie's dad.

  "Hello, everyone. Though George speaks French to me out of respect, I can talk in English, so you will all understand me - I hope.' He said with his eyes raised to heaven. 'My name is Phillip, and, I am Marie's father. Marie was always a beautiful and intelligent girl. But, there was also something different. She was always independent and a little sassy. She always had a mind of her own. The fact she is a doctor of her profession, and now a Commodore has made us very proud. But, we were most impressed when she brought George home. A girl could do much worse. George is a very honorable man, and, that is all a father can hope to see his little girl end up with. But, to top it off, he is a successful leader. I know I speak for my wife Alisa, when I say, welcome to our family, George. And, don't be a stranger. Come visit, eat a little ratatouille, drink a little wine, and talk in French about the galaxy. We love you both and wish you the best." Phillip finished by raising his glass and taking a sip.

  Bill rose to the dais. "Would anyone else have a toast to offer. Some of you may need to curry a favor or two with your bosses.' He said to light laughter. 'It's time for dinner. It's a massive buffet with delicacies from Earth and many other exotic places in the Empire. If your smart, you'll peruse the entire offering before you decide on your meal. There's plenty for all, and a lot of dishes are prepared fresh to order. Wine will be kept supplied on the tables, but the bar is open for anyone who wishes some other beverage. And your steward will get you something if you wait for service at your table. The bride and groom want you to enjoy." He finished as he stretched an arm towards the fare at the food servers.

  The meal was sensational, but everyone at the head table ate very lightly. They had to repeat this all three more times, so it was important not to overdo it at any one session. "We are off to the El Salvador, but we'll all be back to cut the cake. Make sure everyone keeps on having a great time. " George directed to Grace who would stay behind, this time. They would leave one wedding party member at each location as they left, and pick them up on the return visit.

  Aboard the El Salvador, they repeated the same speeches, toasts, and jokes. They joined in on the meal and again kept it light. They left after one dance, an hour later.

  On the Grenada, the dinner was winding down, and the dance music was starting. They interrupted it to do their routines, ate a little more, danced a little, and left for the Dominica.

  They arrived on the Dominica at midnight, just in time for the second sitting. They repeated all the routines and began the meal with everyone. They begged off and returned to the Columbia around a quarter after one in the morning. On the Columbia, they cut the wedding cake and served a few people. Then, they slow danced a few numbers before leaving to return to the El Salvador. There they cut a second cake, slow danced and left to revisit the Grenada where they repeated everything before returning to the Dominica to duplicate it all again. They returned once more to El Salvador, before going back to the Columbia to collapse in bed out of exhaustion around three hundred hours thirty minutes.

  At eight o'clock, they met the crew of the Admirals craft, boarded it and left for a day-trip into the system's nebular cloud. They spent nearly the entire day making love and finding stars through the viewports without ever donning any clothing except robes when a steward required entry.

  That same morning, the El Salvador, took all the non-service wedding guests on a tour through the region highlighting the same cloud, though they never entered it. The visitors were surprised - at the beauty of the system with its three remarkable stars - and the sheer magnificence of space. Its elegant sparkling jewels on a black velvet background highlighted by the colored blotches and dark shadows of nebulae made it an extraordinary vision. Many commented on having gained an understanding of why people wanted to serve in this environment.

  George and Marie spent most of the next day with Phillip and Alisa. Phillip was always animated and often comical when he spoke. But, he did say one thing that touched them both, deeply as they sat near the living room viewing window in George and Marie’s quarters. "Every man wants to be king of his castle, eh? But George, you are king of this gorgeous realm, and you have made our Marie your queen. Il est étonnant ! Truly amazing." He seemed to be in awe.

  All the higher-ups left that day, after taking care of one piece of business. They conducted Marie's promotion ceremony. The Emperor presented her award, and the C&C participated in the elevation with Bill. Then, the C&C officially reassigned her, attaching her headquarters to Boot
s. There would be a small group of people working for her at headquarters on Rigil, but operational decisions would be made on the Columbia. Then, all the muckety-mucks departed for their various Command centers.

  Marie looked spiffy in her new flag uniforms sent along with Bill Stephenson by Banerjee. Until the Emperor's announcement, it had all been a surprise to most people.

  On the July 29th, nearly five hundred guests boarded the El Salvador and left for Earth, including Marie's parents. It was sad to see them go, but they all seemed personally content and happy for Marie, and both seemed to genuinely adopt George as a son. They were as proud of him as they were of Marie.

  The two were back to work on the thirtieth. The expansion was almost complete. Boots was about to attach the last Frigate to the Fleet. There had been a little personnel shuffling in the last few days. The Fleet was still about seven hundred short of full staff. It would take a couple of months to complete this part of the operation. In the meantime, one Frigate in each Group would run with four teams manning three shifts. In each case, the vessel with the most experienced Captain was chosen. Four crews were not a problem if it did not go on indefinitely. Most ships had operated under those conditions during war games. But with eight-hour shifts instead of six, most personnel would get strung out more quickly when you include all their off-shift duties and responsibilities. It basically meant that each person would work a minimum of eleven hours a day instead of nine. That's a long day for anyone if you're doing it day after day. Over the next two months, they would bring each ship up to full complement a department at a time. Little by little, each would get to five shifts and four rotations. For the moment, Boots was the only Fleet that could operate in four mission regions at the same time.