Fleet Admiral HaxHis and Counselor Khan were having a secure three-way video conference with Captain Sherra, First Officer Rommie ( who standing in for Captain Hunt who was still “indisposed”), and Victoria Anasazi.
“According to my timetable we have a little more than six weeks before the rescue fleet completes it's mission on Avon Six and returns.” The Katay Fleet Admiral began.
“Six weeks, three days, nineteen hours to be exact. When The Fleet returns, people would have to be blind as bats not to notice The Insurrection is not with them.” Khan added.
“And wonder what the heck?” Sherra asked.
“That is when rumors will fly and the proverbial kimshee will hit the fan.” Rommie added. HaxHis could clearly see a diplomatic firestorm in the making.
“Victoria, do you have a contingency plan in place in case. . .in case. . . . .?” HaxHis started but hesitated to finish.
“I am prepared to go into exile.” Victoria replied.
“Exile! Why exile?” Rommie asked, voicing the question everyone else thought.
“My son Agamemnon was extremely displeased, to say the least, with Barbarossa's decision to place Tyr on the throne instead of him. Nietzschean law dictates that the crown must be passed down from The Viceroy to the First Born son, unless The Viceroy suspects the First Born has ulterior motives. Barbarossa may have detected something amiss for I've received recent news from one of my spies that he has been secretly fomenting.” Victoria replied.
“Oh my Divine! You mean your own son. . . . . would . . . . . assassinate you?" Hashish exclaimed. In response, Sherra shook her dreadlocked head.
“It is indeed a sad day when one of your own pups that you've suckled at your breast turns on you.” she thought.
“It is not the first nor the last time this has happened. To quote Drago: 'Thine own worst enemy are the members of thine own household.' This is the Nietzschean way, Sherra. Only the strongest survive.” Victoria replied. “Since I am only ruling in Tyr's stead, if Tyr is missing or deceased, I will be a tempting target for Agamemnon.” Victoria said. “I have a standing army of millions at my command, however, I do not wish to risk civil war over this.” she continued.
“But if you are in exile, who would rule in your stead? It obviously cannot be Agamemnon because that's exactly the very thing he wants.” Rommie stated.
“Most likely he would never abrogate the throne once he's gotten it in his clutches.” Sherra responded.
“That is why I am turning over ruling power over to my second son Ares. He is completely loyal to me and will stop at nothing wipe out any opposition.” Victoria replied.
“Divine have mercy! If this doesn't work, this could the making of a civil war!” HaxHis exclaimed.
“Indeed my friends. Let us pray that there will not be one. Far too much innocent blood has been shed already.” Victoria replied, thinking of the recent dustup with Osiris and his ilk.
“Do you need any assistance, Victoria?” HaxHis asked diplomatically.
“No thank you, Haxhis. In fact we are all packed and are leaving within the hour.” Victoria replied.
Meaning her entire household including Ladies in Waiting, Ceremonial Guard, cooks, assistants and other staff, were leaving at oh-dark-hundred. Nietzscheans loved making early morning assaults and departures.
“My Divine! So soon?” HaxHis exclaimed.
“I must, HasHistra.” Victoria replied calmly.
“Any particular location?” Haxhis asked.
“Definitely not here on Pinnacle. I cannot tell you where, but I will let you know once I've arrived safely.” Victoria replied.
“And what of Agamemnon?” Khan asked.
“I left orders for Ares to set a counter plan in motion. But, I also made him promise not to do anything until I'm off planet.” Victoria replied. Meaning, she'd left orders to “take Agamemnon and his fellow malcontents out”. She just didn't want to be anywhere around when it happened.
A young female Nietzschean came into range of the visual pickup and whispered into Victoria's ear. The Nietzschean Queen Mother nodded and smiled sadly. The young lady hurried away.
“Everything is ready and they are waiting for me. Thank you for everything, HaxHista, Sherra, Khan, Rommie. Please find my son.” Victoria said.
“We will do our best.” HaxHis replied.
“May the Divine's blessings and protection be upon you, Victoria.” Khan said.
“Thank you, and same to you Khan, everyone. Thank you for remaining discrete and understanding. I will be in touch as soon as possible.” Victoria replied.
The screen went dark and was replaced by the Nietzschean governmental symbol. HaxHis privately wondered if she would ever see her dear Neitzschean friend again.
“Gentle Beings, I would appreciate it if this information stays within the confines of only us five. I realize Rommie will have to apprise Captain Hunt later.” HaxHis said.
“Yes Ma'am.” They all replied.
“Now lets do what the lady asked us to do, find Tyr.” HaxHis said as she stood.
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