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King Of The Rim Chapter 1-Shoreleave By Stanman63 Edited By Nora Adrienne, JennaFl for Proofreading with Special Thanks to Sephrena Lynn Miller for Guidance and ChrisW. for the Illustration! And For Editorial Help Synopsis:Commander John Carter, Executive Officer of the Patrol Cruiser Aztec visits his favorite haunt once again while on shore leave after another successful tour of the Rim. In the Dive, he suffers the company of fellow crew member Bronson who has used his connections within the Navy to keep from being court martialed for previous transgressions. A beautiful woman enters the Dive, catching Bronson's lustful attention. Now John Carter faces possible discipline for defending a Trans from an attack by three crewmen: Bronson, and his cronies Jones and Walsh Will Carter be dishonorably discharged? Will he lose his commission and be sent to a Penal Colony? Or will he be exonerated, leading to an encounter that is the beginning of a change for the galaxy?. |
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As the Aztec approached the system, Commander John Carter entered the bridge and stood by the Captain as he surveyed his kingdom, and looked over at his Executive Officer with fatherly approval. "Well John, are you ready to take us in?" 'You have never asked for the honor, you’ve always let your Junior Officers have their chance ahead of you. That selfless attitude has gained you their respect and admiration, and now they say it is your turn.'
Looking at the Captain in surprise, he saluted the Captain who returned it with a smile. "Thank you, Sir. Yes, I'm ready, but I thought that Crewman Bronson was scheduled to bring us in?" 'Not that I am complaining, mind you.'
Getting up from the Throne, the Captain smiled warmly at John. "No, he's not ready yet and I seriously doubt that he ever will be with his attitude and track record of demerits. Please, be my guest. Besides, it is your time to shine."
John saluted the Captain who returned the salute and crisply exited the bridge. John sat on the Throne and surveyed his Kingdom. 'Each Captain is treated as an emperor ruling a kingdom here in the Imperial Navy. But how many captains can avoid the feelings of being a god with such power?'
Common to all ships, the Bridge, Captain's Ready Room and Crew's Quarters were on the upper deck with the Captain's Ready Room and quarters forming a suite on the port side, Crew's Mess on the other with both separated from the bridge by the Main Airlock/gangway ramp on either side. Sickbay was located behind both with the operating theater/behind the Crew's Mess and ship's surgeon office/crew quarters across the aisle. Officers' quarters were two room apartments consisting of a bedroom/den/wardrobe and luxury head while crewmen had quarters similar to the brig cells, but double the floor space.
As he viewed the bridge, he saw the telltale light warning of leaving hyperspace. "Lonnie, ship's status?" 'I can see that she will make a fine captain one day. That is if she decides to stay in the Service and not marry, but that is her choice to make,' John mused as he observed her performing her duties.
Up front in the Navigator's seat came the crisp reply from the shapely brunette. "All systems are green, sir." 'Damn it all! I simply can't wait till we land so that I can get pampered by my husband Michael's hands at the spa again.'
Turning to the helm, John saw the competent Less at work. "Less?" 'Damn! She still looks good being pregnant! That Evan is one very lucky Chief Engineer to have discovered such a find.'
Less stretched as she answered John. "Yes John?" 'I know one thing for certain. I will be more than happy when I drop my load. But even though carrying our child has been painful for me, I wouldn't trade my pregnancy for anything. Evan and I will retire and settle on Trillannii after this tour. Evan, if you had to carry our twins, you'd stay in bed. Like they say, 'If men had to give birth, the human race would have died out years ago'.'She felt twinges ease as her back loudly popped, releasing the pent up stress in her lower back.
John smiled at Less as she adjusted the kinks in her back. "Take us in system." 'Damn! I can hear her poor back pop from here! She sure did enjoy it from the way that she is smiling.' "Need anything for pain?" asked John as he walked over to the replicator, ready to assist his crew member. 'It may not be tradition for me to serve a lower ranked Officer, but this is my way of honoring them.'
Less moaned loudly as she put her hand on her lower back, then shyly smiled at John. "Well, I could use a shot of my relaxer. You know that the Navy frowns upon you doing this." 'It's not every Exec that will lower himself to help his crew out. John is the best there is. He will make some lady very happy. I hope as happy as I am with my Evan.'
John smiled and said, "One order of relaxer coming up, and let the Big Wigs frown for all the good it'll do them. The Aztec is a Patrol Cruiser, not a Battle Cruiser or Dreadnought. We don't have the space for a Yeoman to serve as a maid or butler."
Flipping through the menu, he entered the order. Then John carried a tray with a tall glass of amber liquid frosty with ice, a glass of green foam and a mug filled with a frothy brew. Walking over to the ladies, he placed their drinks upon the awaiting pads. "One mint tea for Lonnie and one relaxer for Less as ordered." 'Now for their response.'
"Thank you Johnny, but I did not ask for mint tea," said a puzzled Lonnie with a sigh. 'He is always so nice to us ladies. Too bad others aren't as nice.'
"Well, I knew that you'd want one as soon as we landed. So I thought I might as well order one for you as I got Less her drink," replied a very pleased Johnny as the main view screen went from showing the fluid light of hyperspace to a static star field as the Aztec slowed to sub light speeds.
As the main view screen went from showing the fluid light of hyperspace to a static star field, the Aztec slowed to sub light speeds. The wings began to glow as the solar cells powered up the reaction coils and thrusters to drive the ship safely to the awaiting planet. Maxie's (Hub) Planet now dominated the screen. As the Aztec entered the atmosphere, the solar wings transferred the kinetic energy of the landing into the reaction coils and absorbed the energy of the sonic boom.
The Aztec was one of the countless smaller, more efficient Patrol Cruisers now used to replace the aging Fleet. The newer ships were capable of atmospheric landing like the civilian Merchant Cruisers. The only differences were that the Naval Vessels heavy armor replaced the spacious cargo holds of the Merchant Cruisers. With the smaller size, came smaller crews. Now the Yeomen who were in training transferred to other Departments and Ensigns took their place. Yeomen still served, but only at bases or on board the older ships still in service.
As the Aztec landed, a ping sounded from the intercom. "John, they want to talk to you," said Less with a smile. 'I just love getting to set him up like this. At times, he is so naive for an Executive Officer and he reminds me of my kid brother too.'
Then a frowning John furrowed his brow. "To me? Who wants to talk to me?" 'Is there something that I am forgetting? Some obscure regulation that I forgot about?'
Then the main screen activated and an opulently dressed Lord Duke appeared. He was dressed in the combat green livery of the Imperial Army. Lord Duke Augustus Pompeii got his jollies by scaring naive Naval Officers since he failed all of the requirements to be a Navy Officer. "Aztec, how dare you keep me waiting!! I have more important things to do than to wait while you play!" 'Now to put fear in this newbie and see him grovel to keep me from inflicting my wrath upon him.'
John Carter sat back in the Throne and laughed out loud. "I dare because I am your equal you conceited toad!! You know very well that according to Imperial Regulations the Person selected by the Captain to sit on his Throne is second only to the Captain or the Emperor Himself. Now, if you want to salve your pride by denying us entry here, we will go to another star port on this planet and tell other Naval Vessels about you. Can you afford the Imperial Fines for refusing us entry?" 'That arrogant ass is bluffing!! He knows that he can't afford to pay the fines levied against him for refusing to accept an Imperial Navy Ship if I do leave.'
John could see the pompous ass visibly deflate as he pondered the fact that John was not bowing before him in fear as a plebe would. Lord Duke Augustus Pompeii could lose his position and Title at the whim of Imperial Envoy if He felt that the Lord Duke was ineffective. "Now there is no need to leave, you are most welcome here Lord Captain." 'Oh shit! Now I've done it! This is no newbie here, this is the Exec! Best to butter him up and stay on his good side. If it were a Merchant Cruiser, there would be no fines levied.'
John leaned back as he saw that he had the pompous ass set up. "Do you expect me to allow you to raise my rank without the authority? Only the Captain or the Emperor Himself has that Authority. You will have a lot of explaining to do to the Imperial Envoy once His Eminence has viewed the tape." 'Now let's see you do some groveling.'
The Lord Duke blanched as he heard the threat. "I beg of you Sir, please have mercy upon me, your most humble servant." Damn it all! I hate having to grovel and say that to him! But that is the protocol when pleading for mercy.'
John stood up and placed his hand upon his sword as per regulations. "I accept your apology my humble servant. Now are we cleared to stay or shall we leave?" John chuckled evilly at the Lord Duke's expense. 'I love to see these pompous asses having to grovel. It serves them right for being so stuck up.'
Staying bowed before John, Lord Duke Augustus Pompeii lowered his head further. "You are cleared to stay here at my most inadequate home, Sir." 'When this nightmare will be over?'
John smiled. "We are most happy to accept your hospitality." Turning to Less, he ordered. "Cut transmission." Johnny let out a belly laugh and wiped his eyes when he saw the ship's logo signal transmission's end.
An ongoing unofficial feud between the Imperial Army and Imperial Navy stretched back to Old Earth and the Nation of America where the respective universities regularly engaged in competition.
"Do you think that he wet himself?" asked a mirthful Lonnie with a giggle. I know that I need to go to the head now.'
They heard the Captain's deep throated chortle. "If not, he at least has to shower to erase his odoriferous smell from pooping his trousers. You did very well John, even better than I expected. It's been my pleasure to groom you for Command. You'll either take over when I retire in a few years or transfer to a new Command."
A look of astonishment came over John's face as he realized what had happened. Pointing at the bemused Captain, John said. "You set me up to humiliate that pompous fool!" Then pointing at himself asked, "But why me?" 'You sneaky bastard, you planned this and I fell for it. Glad I'm on your good side.'
Acknowledging John with a good humored bow, the Captain said. "Yes, I admit that I set you up. I knew that you wouldn't let him railroad you into accepting his bullshit. He has been causing problems and I used you to deal with him. Best of all, you didn't let me or the Navy down."
John clapped his hands three times in sarcastic good humor. "Very well, glad to be of service to the Navy. It was my distinct pleasure to put him in his place. Now maybe the Empire will replace the Lord Duke with a trained monkey. It couldn't do any worse," snorted John.
The Captain stood up at attention to show that the time for humor had passed. "Please follow me, John. We have a bit of a problem to discuss before you take liberty." 'I just hope that it doesn't cause you any harm, but you’re about the only one that I can trust.'
John saluted the Captain to acknowledge the seriousness of the request, which the Captain crisply returned. "Aye aye Captain." 'I wonder what it could be that needs my attention?'
The Captain turned, going to the Crew's Mess, just off the bridge. "Less, Lonnie, you're free to take liberty," said the Captain with an exasperated sigh. 'Wish that I could go on liberty, but being Captain means dealing with red tape, and I am meeting with Imperial Envoy Eric Cameron. Glad that he is a Rimmer and his Loyalty Oath is as unquestioned as mine is.'
John followed the Captain. After signaling their spouses below, the two women squealed with delight as they rushed past the men like girls going on Spring Break.
"As you know," began the Captain, "the Empire has been sending out more of its upgraded ships. Now we know why." 'It's against Imperial Policy, but letting him know so that he can notify his family and friends through their network is the right thing to do. The Empire doesn't know that he's the Prince of Trillannii. If they did, they would seek to destroy or subvert him because of the inherent Power of Trillannii Nobility. Unfortunately for the Imperials, once corrupted, that Power is gone and only the heir of a Corrupted may access the Legacy.'
John activated a series of controls to access the Ship's Library. "No doubt they are planning upon a massive assault all across the Rim." 'Thanks to friends like the Captain, we Trillannii are ready for the war, but it's best to let the Council know what ships are being sent.'
The Captain was one of a few Imperials that supported the Rimmers. He grew up on Old Earth and was raised at Hayfield Hall to respect all people. The Hall was continuing its policy of teaching the T.G. in secret, only now the Graduates left Old Earth behind and took their families to T.G. friendly worlds.
The Captain nodded in approval at his activities. "No, normally, that would be the case, but not this time." 'Just wait until you find out, I doubt that you will believe it, I don't really believe it myself.'
Then after accessing the Imperial Naval Files on Ships, John paused to send the information to his communicator, which would discreetly send the accumulated information once a ship with the proper coding arrived. He noticed that one was here already. "Oh? if not a planned assault then what?" 'This had better be good. Wonder which ship is in port? Good thing the Port Authority pays lip service to Imperial Policy or we couldn't risk the transmission.'
The Captain smirked in approval of his question. "The Princess is coming out here on a Good Will Tour of the Rim. That will cause more than a few tongue waggers to gossip, which is what the Imperial Palace wants, no doubt. She has been kept ignorant of the Truth. Once here, you Trillannii can show her the Truth."
John sent the message and closed the terminal, erasing all evidence of his activities in case Imperial Intelligence (Imp In) should check. "Well, that is different. No doubt the Emperor is fretting over her being here, but He can't deny Her without causing Her to wonder." 'I bet that the Council back home will be debating this tidbit of news for a while.'
The Captain stood up to escort John out. "No doubt an excuse for the build up. Take care John, and pray that we don't go to war over this. I hate war, such a waste of ships and crew. But the Rim is ready, I hope."
John shook hands with the Captain. "Don't you worry. My Dad initiated a refit of all Trillannii and Rim ships to upgrade everything, and it is now complete."
"Good, now go before Brick comes on duty."
"Then I'm on my way! I had best take my liberty now before his shift starts or I'll be stuck here on Monitor Duty instead of Brick." 'Can't wait to get to Maxie's Tavern and relax with a proper steak and ale.'
The Palace is guarded by a meter thick kilometer high masonry that housed generators, missiles, shield and towers at each of the four corners that protected the Royal Palace in the center. Each of the four Courtyards was divided into farming plots with dairy-cattle housed in barns next to the walls. The tenant farmers were housed in cottages next to the Palace with well paves roads linking everything.
The hangers were carved out of the living stone of Mont Camelot, the highest mountain on the planet. The hangers house the factories that build the Trillannii Fleet of Trillannii Cruisers [Warships], Merchant Cruisers, as well as the Merchant Freighters. The Trillannii Cruisers and Merchant Cruisers are basically the same ship, except that the Trillannii Cruiser is armored against attack, and the cargo pods house fuel, only the Governor Coils maintain the illusion the both classes are different.
The Merchant Freighters are an older design relying on the brute power of the engines instead of relying upon a combination of engine power and streamlining and wings to perform the same tasks. But at a much lower fuel cost. They are used as dreadnoughts, hospital ships, tankers, and troop carriers because of their rugged construction. Their long, thick fuselage and powerful engines on each side are reminiscent of ancient rocket used to launch Man into Space, but any one ship had the equivalent power of the ancient aircraft carriers, the largest, most powerful ships of Earth' Wet Navy.
Mount Camelot is an extinct volcano that formed the Northern Continent, leaving the Aortic Circle as Trillannii largest freshwater lake. The runoff from the lake feeds the Four Rivers which waters the continent. In the ancient past, a comet composed of ice and stone crashed on top of the Magnetic North Pole, causing a planetary shock wave that caused massive extinctions of most life, but also the Northern continent with its four peninsulas, each with a distinctive ecology.
The Pacific Peninsula is a vast forest of ancient trees in hidden valleys and new growth forests in the plains of orchard of fruit, nut, and lumber with arboreal cities built out of living trees that were shaped into houses by Trillannii Druids capable of performing the magical feats of druids using psionic energy. The Druids maintain an army of Rangers who tend the forests, and houses as well as maintain a variety of non polluting vessels.
The Eastern Peninsula is a vast fertile plan of farmlands divided by the mountains into districts where orchards, farms, and cattle are kept along with special areas devoted to wild life reserves where rare animals and plants are kept from extinction. Here, solar, wind, and hydro power is used in place of burning fossil fuel, although methane gas is stored for heating during the winter.
The Atlantic Peninsula is a vast rocky land of mines, industrial parks, and factories. This is the home of Trillannii technological wealth and industrial might. Here is the site of the many industrial, and technical l universities, and storage for older, vintage technology where students learn about all technology. As a mountain is excavated, or leveled, the refuse is turned into houses, roads, and warehouses.
The Western Peninsula is a vast swamp of interlocking islands of fertile soil where orchids and other rare plants are grown in the galaxy's largest greenhouse. When Trillannii was settled, a Colony Ship containing the embryos of animals adapted to Trillannii crashed, releasing them all, turning the once desert into a swamp as the ruptured engines melted the mountain ice. Since then the wreck has been repaired and turned into one of the many apartment complexes housing the populace.
King Reginald sat on the Throne, meeting with petitioners, as was the Custom of every King to meet and greet His subjects. Even though the Trillanni Kingdom was prosperous, there were still too many instances where the greedy would try to deny a subject his or her due bounty, and this was His way to counter that evil. He wanted for all his people to prosper, so He had set up a republican government to handle the needs of the people. To ensure that there was no abuse of power, all offices had a four-term limit. The official could still serve in other areas, but not in the one they had served before.
King Reginald saw Chancellor Merlin approach. He was wearing the blue robes of his Office, which consisted of a matching bodysuit that protected him against all forms of attack, even chemical, gas and radiation assault. Even though the need for such security measures had long since passed, with the current political situation, the Government was taking no chances. Each member of the Government was similarly protected, but the Ruling Family even more so.
For them, their minds and bodies were subjected to special training that released the body’s untapped potential, and the mind's hidden gifts. Utilizing the mental bonding with their medallions, a Trillannii Royal could perform many mental feats of the mind and body.
The Chancellor's tall, rugged body and classic Roman features made him look like Zeus, or Apollo among mortals. Only King Reginald's 'Fabian' looks were more appealing.
Merlin approached the Throne. "Your Eminence." 'Reggie says to never use that term unless I need a private audience with him.'
Reginald lifted his hand. "Yes, Chancellor?" 'What could be the reason for this interruption?'
"Forgive me, Your Eminence, but it is time for you to review the new additions to the Fleet."
Reginald smiled. "So, the new Throne Ship is ready?" 'Damn! Has the Emperor finally decided to invade?'
"Yes, Sir. The crew is ready for you." 'I hate this subterfuge, but it's the King's decision to keep the public ignorant of the war. Time enough later when war is declared.'
Reginald hit a small gong with a mallet, sounding an end to the session. "People of Trillannii, this session is now over. I now go to attend to my duties as your King!"
As he stepped away from the Throne, the many petitioners applauded him. They knew that he would listen to them when he could. And he had a habit of visiting them in their daily lives, learning exactly what their needs were.
"Come, Chancellor, I am sure that you will want to check out the Fleet with me," he admitted. 'Arturo has always had a thing for building special ships. It's a good thing that he went to the Naval Design College.'
"Coming, your Majesty. Who shall attend to Your Duties if You are detained?" 'We need to make an official Change of Command, now that Reggie will be overseeing the Navy, and attending to His ambassadorial duties.'
The King turned towards the Chancellor and the audience. "I appoint you, Arturo Merlin as my Regent, kneel before me." 'Damn this pomp and circumstance! But the People need this show in order to qualm their fears. If not for the Emperor's tendency to do secret appointments, I'd not need to do this.'
Arturo knelt before the King. "Yes, your Highness."
Reginald unclasped the sword from his side, and touched the flat of the blade to Arturo's shoulders. "By the Authority invested in me by the Most High God, I name thee, Chancellor Merlin Arturo as Regent of Trillannii. Now arise, and fulfill thy duties." 'Not that he needs this ceremony, as Chancellor, he is automatically next in line, but there are those whose agendas are contrary to mine, and if in charge, would cause trouble.'
The greedy who were all to ready to confiscate or steal the wealth of others were guilty of inciting political unrest to further their goals. When caught, their corruption was either healed through Medallion Healers, or if they would not/could not be healed, were banished to the Imperium with all their Medallion knowledge and skills erased from them.
As the audience applause died down, the visitors looked for the exit and soon departed the scene. The Royal Guards escorted them to their waiting carriages, or to the Public Transport Terminal to board at one of the transport hubs. There was an air hub for sky taxis and sky buses, the subway and boats. But for those who could afford it, or lived within the Capitol City, there was the teleporter.
"Okay, Merl, where did this data come from, and just how current is it?"
"We got it in our last data transfer from the Emperor's Palace. They waited until the Emperor called his pet terrorist Jellico back to escort the Princess on her tour of the Rim. Until then, the Naval Maneuvers were all speculation."
"Damn! Did the data include ship movements?"
"Yes, we were lucky, that way, and some of it came from our friends in black."
By now, they had reached the King's Chamber which only a few knew about. It was accessed via teleporters and trapdoors that prevented an enemy from attacking the King. Its exact location was behind the Throne Room, but showed up on scanners as a column of dirt.
"Oh? Really?"
"Yes, Reggie, What's on your mind?"
"Well, it seems as if they're able to see what we do. I wonder if we should make an alliance with them."
Merlin Arturo busied himself with getting Reginald a frothy brew of Trillannii Beer to help him ponder upon his alternatives. The brew worked with the Medallion to streamline the thought processes. "Considering their nature, they make excellent allies, but are they willing to fight if war is declared?"
Reginald accepted his mug. "According to our records, they are against the Emperor. They have fought against those that have tried to force a gender change upon a victim, but that might have changed," he said with a sigh. 'If the M.I.B.D. have allied with the Emperor, I am the best one to sense it, other than my son, John. That's what makes my decision so damned dangerous! If caught, I could endanger the Rim.'
Sitting down across from Reginald, Arturo shook his head. "It's too damned bad that I can't do it, but then again, I don't have the ability to sense subterfuge as you or John do."
"All too true, old friend. How is the Queen doing?"
Arturo began to cry, "The poison continues to ravage her body. Soon, there will be nothing human left of her body. She will become a living statue."
"Have the S.P.A. schools left the Earth? That is the only thing that would give my wife's sacrifice any meaning."
"Your wife, is as a daughter to me. Yes, thanks to Doris spilling that vat of poison, the schools were able to get away."
"Good, her sacrifice is another in a long list of grievances against the Emperor."
Maxie's Tavern's dim and smoky atmosphere had become the standard by which other pubs on the Rim went by. For Maxie's Tavern's was well known for its brews and excellent menu as well as its catering, emporium and take home services. More than one ship had loaded up upon the pub's vast variety of pre-packaged meals for the journeys between ports of call where the crew could safely dine while away from their ship.
The Hub was the Agri-Planet Ceres IV, but poor management o natural resources depleted the soil, leaving the planet a wasteland until retired Governor Max set his plan into motion to reclaim it. Max officially released the name Ceres IV and renamed the planet Maxie's Planet, better known as The Hub.
The Hub was the first one established at the port by Max, and grew until it had taken over the warehouse complex, eventually the entire planet. Max used his influence to establish other taverns around the planet, especially at other star ports. There were other taverns, but his was the best.
Using his connections as the retired Governor, Max made the planet the transport hub for the region for Merchant Cruisers om all over, capable of handling the needs of ship and crew from the Hub's vast resources, rivaling any port in the galaxy at large. The Imperial Navy, which had its own base adjacent to the base of trade and commerce, used the Hub's connections to provide supplies for the base, eliminating the cost of a PX store and fuel depot.
As the Hub's popularity grew, Max claimed more of the planet until the entire surface was remodeled into a megalopolis that covered the planet, turning the mountains into factories to reclaim the air and all bodies of water into fresh water reservoirs, kept clean via bio friendly algae that fed the marine life harvested for consumption. The Hub's farms were located at the equator and polar regions to take advantage of the available sunlight and grow the specialty items on demand throughout the galaxy.
A sullen John Carter drained his glass and the waitress refilled it as soon as he passed it to her. 'Well, here I am in Maxie's Tavern having a few pints after my steak. Unfortunately, that Bronson shows up without taking the antidote, and now that wet-behind-the-ears plebe is drunk as a skunk! He was told by the Captain that anymore trouble and he'd send Bronson to the Penal Planet in spite of his contacts in the Navy.'
"That'sh one purty gal there. Wonder if she'sh wearing undiesh?" asked Bronson.with a hiccup.
Looking towards the door of the bar, John Carter saw a petite redhead enter wearing a green bodysuit and matching boots. She looked quite capable of handling any trouble with her laser pistol and truncheon, "Careful there Bronson, she is from a Merchant Cruiser, I doubt that she is willing from the way that she carries herself," John chuckled as he remembered more than a few times that he had seen such a display in the seedy streets of the star port.
"Sho?" Bronson then began to greedily down the contents of his flagon. 'A challenge will be nice for a change from diving into the slave pits.'
'Damn it! All I wanted was to sit down with Max and talk over old times after that excellent dinner, but he had to go break up a brawl. I remember being a wet-behind-the-ears plebe on my first liberty furlough and coming into this tavern when it first opened its doors. I was his first customer and he gave me my first pint of root beer. He couldn't believe that I drank the stuff. But when he pulled his first pint of Trillannii Root Beer, he found out just how much of a kick it has.' "Careful there Bronson, you're drunk!"
"Sho?"
John finished as the waitress returned his now full glass with her customary smile, "And you did not take the antidote as per regulations. Your flaunting of regulations has just ruined any chance of a promotion." 'Back then it was the only tavern here, but Max converted this old warehouse into his tavern and emporium. Thanks to him, this depleted agri-world is now a hub center of trade.'
"I am shure that she is good for a bit of fun."leered Bronson.who drained away his beer and poured more from the pitcher. Make another notch on my bedpost," he slurred as he drank.
'Damn it all!! I have to stop him from doing something foolish!!' thought John as he sat hid mug down. Then he said. "If you do what I think your gonna' do, that is a Court Martial Offense. And you are drunk as a skunk. You know very well that the Captain warned you about getting into trouble."
"And you would be more than happy to shend me packing Mishter Clean," accused Bronson as he belched loudly enough for other patrons to turn and stare at him in open disgust.
"No, Bronson, I just enforce the regulations," sighed an exasperated John. "I do not make them." Then John looked Bronson square in the eyes, "Can't you tell that I am trying to save your sorry ass?" Then he turned Bronson's empty pitcher over. 'I hope that he gets the message through that alcoholic fog.'
'Guesh that I was wrong about 'im. 'e ain't too bad at that.' "Well then, I guesh that I will head back before I muck it up. Good night Shir." He saluted sloppily.
John returned his salute, "Good night Bronson." Then he finished sipping his brew, thankful that he HAD taken the Antidote before he left the ship. 'I won't feel that she is safe until I make sure that she's been escorted back to her ship. Bronson's small stature might make him an ideal sniper, but it also makes him drunk all too quickly without the antidote.'
The drunken Bronson drained his mug of beer and staggered out, weaving a wobbly trail to the exit followed by his friends Jones and Walsh, together, they went looking for fresh meat.
In the opulent Throne Room, Emperor Augustus Sylvester Pendragon awaited his daughter Princess Ariel Selena Pendragon as he sat upon the Crystal Throne. The Crystal Throne was built by Master Artisans and Craftsmen. Using gold, precious gems and silver, they worked with Master Technicians and Engineers to create a throne from which the Emperor could rule His Empire. Inlaid with technology, the Crystal Throne could convey the Emperor anywhere safely and protect Him with an array of weapons.
Running up to her Daddy, the Princess hugged Him. "Oh Daddy, guess what your little girl did?" She beamed with delight.
Looking at His precious daughter, who had perched herself upon the arm of the throne so that her hose encased legs could dangle, Augustus smiled and said, "You caught a fish in the Royal Pond." 'She is the only one that I will ever allow to disturb me as she does, and I wouldn't have it any other way.'
Ariel reached over to the decanter and poured herself a glass of chilled water kept there for the Emperor and Princess. "No silly, I got the part of the Good Fairy in the play," she said between giggles.
"Is that so? You look like Tinkerbell, but in pink, not green."
"Can't you tell by my costume?" she replied as she lifted the hem of her tiny skirt and swished to show her fairy wings.'My Daddy just loves to tease me and I love it.'
The Emperor clinked his glass to hers and they both sipped their drinks. "Now that you mention it, yes. When do you perform?" he asked with laughter in his voice. 'She looks so cute in her pink tutu and tights. She may practically be an adult, but she still acts like a little girl. I purposefully kept her away from Court intrigue, but that has weakened her too. She needs to start taking responsibility, yet I want to protect my precious daughter from political treachery and manipulation.'
She placed her now empty glass down by her Daddy's empty glass. "After my Royal Tour of the Rim." 'I know that my Daddy hates the idea of me going out there, but I must start doing my duty as the Princess. I hope that my Daddy understands.'
Then the Emperor frowned at His daughter. "Ariel, are you sure thatyou want to go on the Tour?" he asked, his voice heavy with concern. 'Is My daughter finally ready to act as the Princess? Can I trust her to make the right decisions out there away from me and the Court?'
Ariel looked her Daddy in the eye. "Daddy, I'm an adult. It is time for me to start taking responsibility and show people that I can lead. So far, all that I've done is go to school and attend Royal Balls. I need to show the People that I'm not a spoiled brat, a Royal-Pain-In -The-Neck-Princess," she said, pouting. 'Daddy thinks that I am a naive and gullible girl. My teachers taught me about his depredations. When I am Empress, the evil will end. But I need the help of the Rim to consolidate my position.'
The Emperor looked at her with new found respect for her decision. "Very well Ariel, the Throne Ship 'the Majestic' is yours for the Tour. It is ready for you. Shall I escort you to your ship?" 'It will be one of my very few pleasures that I have as your Daddy. Too bad you're an adult; I loved seeing you grow up.'
She squealed with delight." Oh, thank you Daddy!! I'll go and change now." Then the petite Princess ran out of the Throne Room. 'Have to maintain the image of the little girl or I can't do what I must.'
After she left, the Emperor thought long and hard. 'Who shall I appoint as the Captain of her ship? Who can I trust to both uphold Imperial Policy and keep her safe for me while she's out touring the Rim? Ah yes!! Now I know the perfect man for the job.' Reaching over to the intercom, he activated a special button. "Grand Admiral Jolleck," he called out.
Then a hologram of a silver haired Santa Claus in a crisp white uniform appeared before the Emperor. "Greetings Your Majesty, how may I serve the Empire?" 'I wonder what that old bastard wants me to do for Him now? He has given me many an hour of pleasure as I engaged in my vices while serving Him.'
The Emperor grinned at the sight of His friend. "Get your ass over here at once, you rascal. I have a job that needs your special touch."
Jolleck saluted the Emperor who crisply returned it. "Aye Aye, your Majesty."
The Emperor cut the connection and awaited the Grand Admiral. To help pass the time, the Royal Attendant brought out an ornate tray filled with refreshments and then sat a much smaller chair on the other side of the table and went back to his place in his alcove off away from view to await the Emperor's next whim.
John Carter watched with growing interest as the redhead approached the table. "I am Jane Meadows," she said as she held out her hand in lady-like fashion. 'I saw him with his drunken friend. He must be a rare one. Is he the gent that I hope he is or another cad?'
John took her hand in his and gently kissed it. 'Yes,she’s smiling.' "I am John Carter." 'She moves with grace, must know a few Court Dances or I hope so.'
John Carter held the chair as Jane sat down. "My oh my, are we not a gentleman, John Carter of Mars? So very few out here on the Rim."
"Actually, my family came from Mars, but we settled out here on the Rim," he said as he remembered the first time he had read the John Carter of Mars stories.
"Oh, which system?" she purred as the waitress placed Jane's order of wine by her. 'What a handsome man! Is he single and available?'
"The Trillannii System."
"Then you are one of the few that support the T.G.," she said, sighing, grateful to have found a possible friend. "So few people out here on the Rim openly support us because of Imperial Policy. And with the damned Imperial Navy more active, it's even more dangerous to openly support us."
"Yes. As soon as my tour is over, I am retiring and going back to the family farm."
"An officer and a gentleman as well as a farmer. Being from the Trillannii System, are you a Trillannii Knight? Will you be mine tonight? I feel that I need one."
She wiped her forehead as the wine began to take effect. John held out his hand. "Then I shall be your Knight, my Lady." John took a swallow of his brew. 'If she only knew what my family farm actually is, she would have a fit. Retiring as the youngest Captain at thirty in four years will be even sweeter if I find me my Queen out here.'
"Perhaps you could help me, then." She sipped her wine and set the glass back down. "I hope that I am doing the right thing, I'd hate to have to see you get hurt." 'How will he react to my news? Is he simply giving me a spiel about being pro T.G. to entrap me? Good thing my pistol is charged.'
"Sure, what do you need?" he finished his drink, sensing an end to the conversation.
"John, I am a T.G." Then she drained her glass in order to steel herself for trouble. 'Well, in for a penny, in for a pound.'
"Whew! Jane, you look like a G.G. to me." He eyed her appreciatively. 'I can't tell that she is T.G. Not that it matters to me, I like her.'
"Thank you, actually, I did serve upon a naval ship before I transitioned. I served as Ship's Surgeon on board the Dreadnought, Terra Queen. Now it's been converted to a Merchant Cruiser hauling liquids," she wiped her forehead as the wine began to take effect. 'Now I know that I am safe with him, but who in the hell spiked my wine? I can't trust myself to shoot straight now. Have to rely on him now.'
"Oh, how complete is the transition? For you that is. That Merchant Cruiser comes here every month." John smiled at her. 'Damned good looking girl here, well worth knowing in my book.'
"Complete enough, only by scanning my records can you tell that I used to be James," she said with a sigh. 'Looks as if I have found a friend in John.'
"So, you can? Uh, ..." 'I think that I am in love with her.'
John ordered another of his brew from the waitress who replaced Jane's order of wine by her. "Yes, I can. And I do want to have a family." 'I think that he could be the one for me in spite of the fact that he is in the Navy.'
"Don't worry Jane, your secret is safe with me." 'Besides, none of the crew would ever believe me, even if I was to tell them. And I wouldn't mind being the father of her children.'
"I know that, but I saw your shipmate leave, and I need you to escort me back to my ship." 'I hope that you will do it, because I doubt that there are any of the crew ready to help me out thanks to shore leave.'
"You think that he will attack you?" 'She is scared of Bronson and with good reason. He won't take no for an answer.'
"Yes, and if successful, I could get..."
John held out his hand, "Then I shall be your Knight my Lady."
Jane graciously accepted his hand. "Thanks, but I am not a lady. Not with my record."
"Princess then," he suggested with a smile.
"If you insist."
After paying the bar bill, John Carter led Jane out of the Dive. Since the bar was located close to where the ships docked, it wasn’t much of an imposition for John to escort Jane back to her ship.
"There is my ship, the Rim Queen," she said with pride.
"Believe it or not, that ship berthed next to yours is my ship, the Aztec."
As they got closer, her fears were realized. Three men suddenly stepped out of the ships' shadows. It was Bronson, aided by his cohorts Jones and Walsh. Bronson lunged at Jane as Jones and Walsh rushed forward. Carter stepped in front of her and let loose with his Command Baton, leaving their shoulders numb from the stun charge. Bronson attempted to raise his laser pistol only to have his pistol arm stunned as John delivered the nerve pinch to the shoulder, ending Bronson's fight.
Jane looked on in horror as the fight went on, after being pushed away by John to safety, crying as she thought of what could happen.
Walsh put on brass knuckles that gave him shielding from the Baton as Jones went for his vibroblade. John threw Bronson into them as he withdrew his star sword to do battle with his opponents. But instead of fighting, they turned and fled back to the Aztec which was berthed next to her ship the Rim Queen.
Jane lowered her fists from her mouth, relaxing from her protective stance.
"Glad to be of service. I will have Bronson sent packing along with Jones and Walsh." Then John gently wiped her tears away with his hand.
"Only one thing, John." 'Will he hate me now?'
"What is that?"
"Jones and Walsh were shipmates of mine. They know who I am. Oh please, John! Don't hate me."
"Shit!"
