The weather on Tihab had passed through the hot months and now, two months later, on the 15th Tonkis the rainy season was starting in the north, while the south slowly warmed. Tihab itself was now calm although there was intense interest in the two ongoing trials, one in the Empires High Court and one in the Legions Superior Courts Martial, along with a third expected.

Star Builders had been restructured with new management in place and Ganner Re Dapplell expected to be relieved of his responsibility in a few months. The two new councillors had been sworn in and a new councillor was in the process of being chosen to replace Johnna Xotua who had retired due to ill health. While this had generated some comment, it had been made clear that the retirement was Johnna’s decision and that the Dark Lord had accepted his request reluctantly. An appearance on Sabra Boons evening show by Johnna Xotua confirmed this. Also, that his replacement was being selected by the Sixth Cluster underlined that this was a normal, although rare event.

And the Star Commander had arrived.

*********

“All Ranks … Attention!” Ships Master Ninda Coamso rapped out to the honour guard and waiting dignitaries as the shuttle doors opened late in the morning of 22nd Wassas. The stocky senior non-commissioned officer had been exercising the honour guard, indeed the whole base, since they had learned the news of Dark Lords return and that Fleet Admiral Vis Vistricer had been created Star Commander.

There had been a buzz of rumours that he could return to any base but Fleet Ground Station Central was the closest to the city and had the largest transit facilities for personal.

When he had heard that the Legion was to supply the honour guard, he had insisted that he be in command as this was fleet facilities. Reluctantly this was agreed by the Legion. The two NCO’s Commanding the detachment, Master Sergeant Rus Nika and Ships Master Ninda Coamso quietly came to that agreement that occurs only between veteran nco’s.

The shuttle door opened and the Star Commander stepped out to the stirring sounds of the March of Stars, the official march of the Legion. He was followed by Marshal of the Legion Ress Lissor, who had met him in orbit.

“Salute.” Rapped out by Ninda Coamso brought out swords to salute position.

Stepping over to the official party, Vis Vistricer was greeted by the First Councillor and the High Council. The honour guard was inspected and a short speech was made. The Star Commander, the Marshal and the dignitaries all left and the honour guard dismissed.

“Not bad for a bunch of ground pounders,” grunted Coamso.

“Not so bad either for a spacer.” Was the equally courteous reply from Nika.

The two smiled and parted.

*********

In the ground car, far from recorders and cameras, the two officers gave each other rueful smiles.

“I am glad that that is over.” Vis Vistricer sighed, looking elegant in his black and silver uniform.

“No more than me.” Laughed Ress Lissor. He then sobered.” I have a lot to tell you. The return of our Master has caused grave disruptions.”

“So I have gathered.” The Star Commander agreed. “You have done a masterful job in keeping a lid on everything. The Legion and the Empire owns you a great debt and I am grateful for your presence here.”

“As I said, I have much …” He stopped in surprise when Vis Vistricer held up his hand.

“I will get a full report from you and your staff later. But now, it is important that I make my official call on the Dark Lord. And you should just relax for a fraction.” The Star Commander said with a smile.

“How was the trip in? Nice and quiet?” Ress Lissor asked with a quick laugh.

“Quiet! I will be glad to deal with the Dark Lord! There were formal ceremonies at every arrival station. The cluster Ministers and Commanders all made the effort to meet me at every intergalactic transfer station. It was exhausting!” The Star Commander leant back in his seat, then sat back up. “But I had a chance to meet commanders and leaders I never had before. That at least was useful.” They both looked up as they turned onto the busy broad avenue that lead to the Palace.

“Soon you will meet some of the most powerful people in the Empire.” The Marshal gave a grim smile.

“You mean the Ladies. I have seen them.” A smile at the memories crossed his face.

“No, I mean the Head Steward and his senior staff.”

Vis Vistricer turned and stared at the Marshal.

“Remember Vis, they see Him every day. They take our requests to Him and give their opinions to Him when asked and perhaps also when not. They pass orders from Him to us. He has also showed that He will defend and protect them. I will tell you more about that later!”

“I see.” Vis Vistricer sat back in the ground car. The statement by the Marshal had taken him by surprise. This was something he had not considered, indeed he had not thought of the palace staff at all.

The ground car took them into the private parking space under the palace. There they were met by five members of the Imperial guard.

“We are privileged to greet you, Star Commander and Marshal.” The senior member bowed then indicated the transit lift.

“I’ll show you the way, sir.” The Marshal smiled, getting a look from the Star Commander.

In the tube, Vis Vistricer leant over to Ress Lissor. “What’s with this ‘Sir’ business?”

“One must preserve the dignity of the rank.” Came the dead panned response, with a delayed, “Sir.” There was a twinkle in the Marshal’s eye.

“We will discuss that later!” Ress Lissor was totally unintimidated by the Star Commanders look.

The secure transit lift opened in the Stewards offices. Waiting were the Head Steward, the Security Chief and the Senior Administrator. The Head Steward spoke first.

“Welcome to the palace Star Commander, I am Head Steward Grada Karkart. This is Senior Administrator Madla Dinsta and here is Security Chief Ferni Massett.”

“Thank you Steward, I am very happy to finally be here.” The Star Commander regarded the three people before him with interest, considering what he had just learned.

“This way sir, we will guide you to him.”

“Guide us?” The Star Commander gave Grada a questioning look.

The Head Steward nodded. “There are a lot of twists and turns to where we will find the Dark Lord, that is most of the time.” The Steward talked as he walked. “He also likes to keep us on our toes by sometimes changing rooms,” Grada smiled.

“I see.” The Star Commander looked around with interest, admiring the fine finish of the walls, adorned here and there by what were clearly ancient paintings. Ress Lissor and the two staff members chatted amenably as they walked.

As they approached the study, the usual gaggle of Ladies stirred with interest.

“Hey, he’s here!” One called.

“He looks better than the last one.” Another eyed him critically up and down.

“Let’s take him in!’ A third decided.

Vis Vistricer was happy that he already had some experience with several of the Ladies. But this was different!

“Ladies, some decorum please.” From the Steward had them stopped for a fraction. “Do you think our Master would have the Star Commander treated so?” The Ladies glanced at each other. Two advanced to Vis Vistricer and took him by the arms, another said “This way” and led them into the study.

“Guess who’s here!” Came cheerfully from inside the door.

“Nina, I trust you are treating our guest with the respect that he has earned?” The familiar voice had the two Ladies releasing the Star Commander with slightly embarrassed grins.

Lady Nina was an athletic brunette and she smiled as she answered the Dark Lord. “The Head Steward made certain of that,” then stepped to the side. The two Ladies also stepped to the side, giving Vis Vistricer smiles as they did so. Looking around he recognised Lady Dana, amongst others from Trilla. He gave her a nod of acknowledgement, which was returned with a smile, also recognising Lady Nina from when he had met her while still a commodore. In the background, he saw someone he did not know, the reporter, Sabra Boon.

Standing in front of the fireplace, the Dark Lord smiled. His companion sitting to His left, also smiled.

“Welcome Star Commander, I am sure that the Marshal is happy you have arrived as well. Good day to you Marshal.” Both officers saluted.

“And thank you Head Steward, Chief Massett and Administrator Dinsta.” They bowed. “This visit is necessary for protocol reasons and for the necessary message that it sends to the Legion and the Empire as a whole. So now we meet again and will again soon.” The Dark Lord paused. “You and the Marshal have much to talk about. You will have already discussed, as much as possible, the redistribution of the invasion fleet and the scouting of the empire that I have ordered. I will meet with you and the First Councillor on the 26th. Marshal, you deserve to be there as well. This will be the primary matter under discussion.”

The Dark Lord paused again. “Do you have any questions?”

“Not at this time my Lord.”

“Until the 26th then.” There was a pause. “I do see as one of your major concerns the morale of the legion following recent events. There is one way by which the palace may help you. Lady Luca?”

The tall, bronzed and athletic brunette swayed forward. She looked calmly at the Star Commander before she spoke.

“It has been a while since I went into combat with a battalion of the Legion. I would like to honour them. It was a tough fight and they took losses”

“Of course Lady.” Both the Star Commander and the Marshall saw the usefulness in such a parade.

“I wish to see them honoured.” Lady Luca repeated.

“It will be an honour to have your endorsement for them.”

The laugh from Lady Luca surprised almost everyone in the room. The smile on the Dark Lords face was wide as well. He had returned to his seat.

“You have something else on mind Sire?” The Marshall put in.

The blue eyed companion rose to her feet, a look of comprehension appeared on her face, as well as others.

“I like it, it’s about time that some of the units were given battle honours.” She exclaimed. Some of the Ladies nodded.

The two Legion officers exchanged looks.

“This must be approved by Legion High Command first.” The Dark Lord looked at the two officers. “And the battle honours will be given by Lady Luca herself, and afterward the Fifty Ninth Battalion will be known as Lady Lucas Own.”

The two officers stiffened. There was the slightest hesitation then with a bow, the Star Commander agreed. “It will be the most singular honour, sire.”

The Dark Lord sighed. “There is more to it than just that. The battalion will be called upon for more and dangerous assaults. The Fifty Ninth is a regular line battalion, however it will now receive more and specialist training. The entry requirements will also be strengthened as many will want to join because of the honour conferred but only the best will be accepted. This is how it must be. This is the penalty for being the very best.”

The two officers nodded their understanding. “Do you intend more such honours in the future sire.” The Star Commander asked.

“An excellent question. At the moment, no. But if units perform with excellence, then possibly yes. Also I have spoken with Lady Luca. Captain Huri performed with high valour and should receive official recognition, as should the Colour Sergeant and the Sergeant of the first squad in each of the attacking companies. That can take place at the same time. Do you agree? Please speak clearly, I wish for your honest opinion.”

“I will need to review the action reports sire before I can make any such determination.” Came the calm reply from the Marshal.

“Of course.” The Dark Lord looked at Lady Luca who held out a data cube.

“My report for your perusal, Star Commander.”

“Thank you Lady Luca.” The Data cube was accepted with a bow.

The Dark Lord stood, putting his hands into his pockets. “You have been detained long enough. There is a reception waiting for you at Legion Headquarters I believe. Gird your loins, Star Commander, they will have piled your desk with work only you can do. Don’t believe it! There are maybe a dozen items that require your undivided attention. I will see you on the 26th!”

The Marshal nodded in agreement, he was already experienced in bureaucratic intrigue, as was the Star Commander, although neither had any idea of what ‘Gird your loins,’ meant.

The two officers came to attention, saluted and left.

*********

Councillor Turves Plenna had suffered agonies waiting for this meeting of the 22nd Wassas with the Dark Lord. While all knew that he was from Kilgour, he had carefully hidden the fact that he was distantly related to Thurgod Distra, the notorious pirate and he knew that he could not keep this information from the Dark Lord, so was terrified.

Watching the Councillors approach, Madla Dinsta was surprised at the evident nervousness and sought to allay it.

“Councillor, welcome to the palace.” She gave a bright smile.

“Thank you, I am pleased to be here.” Plenna gave the best smile he could, in return.

He looks like he is about to have his head handed to him. Madla thought, but retained her greeting manner. “This way Councillor.” She said, leading the Councillor in silence through the maze of corridors to the Ante Room.

Reaching the corridor holding the ante room, the Senior Administrator noted with relief that no Ladies were present. She was not at all certain that the Councillor could have survived an extended dose of the Circle.

“Why so glum, Councillor.”

Turves Plenna started, he had not noticed the Dark Lord standing at the entrance to the ante room, hands in his pockets as usual. Madla gave a bow, answered by a nod from the Dark Lord. Plenna followed with a bow then slowly straightened. “My Lord.” It seemed to Madla the he looked even more nervous if that was possible. As Plenna slowly moved to the ante room, Madla turned and left.

After the two entered the room, with a wave of the hand the Dark Lord sent Turves Plenna to a seat.

“Tell me what is distressing you, Councillor.” The Dark Lord did not smile.

“I think you know, my Lord, I have a relative you recently met.” Plenna took a deep breath. “It is Thurgod Distra.” He stopped.

“I see.” The Dark Lord sat in silence, His eyes on the Councillor. “What do you expect me to do with this information?” He finally asked.

Plenna took a deep breath. “I expect that you will ask for my resignation from the council.” Plenna stopped, then started again, “I will inform the First Councillor on my return.” He started to stand.

The Dark Lord waved him back into his seat. “Sit Councillor, I have a question or two for you.”

Reluctantly Plenna returned to his seat.

“Have you committed any illegal act?” Came the Dark Lord’s first question.

“No, my Lord.” The Councillor replied.

“Or did you in any way, including the passing of information of any kind assist, help or direct Thurgod Distra in his activities?”

“No, my Lord.”

“Did you at any time or in any manner, profit from Distra’s piracy?”

“No, my Lord.” Plenna if possible, was looking ever more miserable.

“Did you protect Thurgod Distra in any manner from arrest or any consequence of his crimes by any means including suppling services or by hindering police or any other law enforcement agency?”

“No, my Lord.”

“Then I must ask you, why are you taking his burden onto yourself? His acts are his responsibility, not yours.”

“I thank you for that, my Lord, but the fact remains that I concealed this information and now I am sure that it will be broadcast everywhere.” Plenna slumped in his chair.

“True, so you must get ahead of the information. Hiding it and hoping it will go away will not do any good, you must be ready to deal with it. I accept that you committed no crime, however this is a matter you must discuss with the First Councillor and the other Councillors. But you may tell them that you have discussed this with me and that I have faith in you.

“What about …” he stopped.

“The courts will deal with Distra. That matter is out of your hands. And you should not involve yourself in it.”

“If he should appeal to You, or the High Council?”

“We will deal with that if it should happen. Do not concern yourself about future events which may never occur.” The Dark Lord reassured Plenna as he rose.

“Thank you my lord. I am much relieved.” Turves Plenna bowed deeply. “I am your loyal subject.”

The Dark Lord gave a nod of acknowledgement, as they stepped into the corridor. “This may become something you will have to return to Kilgour to deal with. That will not be a problem if you need the time. The First Councillor will be the one to speak with.” He smiled reassuringly. Lea Cania, who was there to guide the Councillor back out, wondered what they had discussed but made no comment.

With a nod to Lea’s bow, the Dark Lord dismissed Plenna with the words. “We will speak again, Councillor.”

“This way, Councillor.” Lea lead the way out. It was a silent trip, Turves Plenna had much to think about.

*********

The four Ladies emerged from the second room as the Dark Lord turned around.

“That was different. Unexpected.” Lady Dana said.

“Yes, I agree.” Lady Luca put in.

“He will have trouble with the Council and his home galaxy. Thurgod Distra caused a lot of grief there before he left to other places.” The Dark Lords companion suggested.

“Indeed, but there is not a great deal we can do to help him out.” Lady Dana said. “He is probably going to lose his seat. He may even be recalled.”

They walked down the corridor towards the study.

“If that is his fate, then that is his fate. I will not interfere.” The Dark Lord responded. “It is important that I remain above this. I feel sorry for Turves Plenna, but hiding his connection with Distra will be held against him. If it becomes known, that is.”

Lady Luca looked puzzled. “Why wouldn’t it become known?”

“Distra may be silent on the subject, he may not even know. The media may not make the connection. In any case, I will not move to either protect Turves Plenna, or indict him.”

They entered the study still discussing the Councillor.

*********

It was now early in the afternoon, Ymaus Tyon, stopped in the entrance of the palace and looked around. Recently independent, Thompson Isle was a frontier world, less than a thousand years old. That Ymaus had been elected from such a raw world was indicative of her talents.

Unhurriedly, she made her way to the Stewards office, arriving at the appointed time.

“Welcome Councillor, It is a pleasure to see you here on this auspicious day.” Garda Karkart greeted her. “This way, please.”

“Thank you Head Steward.” Ymaus Tyon had been warned by Simone of Christos to be polite to the Steward and the palace staff. Characteristically, she continued, “I don’t see what is so auspicious about today however.”

“Why the arrival of the Star Commander, of course?” The Head Steward was surprised.

Ymaus was unimpressed. “Another soldier to deal with, that all. The people are the important ones. Especially those that suffer and die on far worlds.”

“I see.” Garda felt a non-committal response was best. Inwardly he wondered how this rather uncompromising attitude was going to play with their Master. The rest of their walk was completed in silence.

“Here we are Councillor.” The Head Steward pointed to a doorway where the Dark Lord stood talking to several Ladies of the Circle. All were dressed in what, the palace staff, had come to consider was their normal dress.

“Ah look, its Ymaus.” One, a tall athletic brunette said, as the two of them walked up. Nina, Garda remembered from the morning.

Another, shorter, with pale skin and black hair also turned around. Her smile flashed, “Why yes it is, you have grown up since I last saw you, Councillor Tyon.”

“Thank you my Lady.” Ymaus managed.

“Of course, you visited Thompson Isle when you checked the galaxies in the Seventh Cluster, didn’t you!” The willowy redhead, Sydney said to Taryn in her gay voice. The Steward recognised both from their assistance in hiring new staff.

“Now, now Ladies.” The Dark Lord had his impassive face on but Garda could tell there was amusement in his voice. “Thank you Steward. How is your day?”

“My day is busy, sire. But nothing to concern yourself about.”

“I put my trust in you, good Steward.” With the Dark Lord’s words, Garda gave a small bow and left.

The Dark Lord turned to the Councillor who had, somewhat, recovered her equilibrium. “The Ladies have welcomed you, Councillor Tyon, I add my welcome to theirs.”

“Thank you, sire.” Ymaus Tyon followed the Dark Lord into the ante room and took the proffered seat.

“You have questions for me I see.” The calm statement unsettled the Councillor. She wondered what the Dark Lord knew and what He was getting at.

“Sire, there are many people of the Empire who struggle and need help.” Ymaus began, “They ask: What are you doing to help them?”

“A good question. What do you think I should do?” The Dark Lord replied.

“I think that you should order more programs to be created, and make the clusters implement them.” The Councillor suggested.

The Dark Lord was silent for a fraction. “You think that I should become more involved in the day-to-day activities of the Empire?” He asked quietly.

“That is not what I said, sire.” Ymaus Tyon protested.

“Indeed, but that is what it would become. I would be placed into the executive position of direct rule, with all that implies.” He gave a speculative look at Ymaus. “Do you think that is a good idea? Would you like that?”

The Councillor sat silent in her chair.

“Where there not programs of assistance on your world, and did you not take advantage of them, Councillor?”

“I did, and they were of great help for me.” Ymaus was buoyed by the comment. “That is why they should be universal, available throughout the Empire!” She pressed her case.

“Will the same programs work on, say Christos?” The Dark Lord asked. “Or for the Zylions?”

Ymaus was an intelligent woman and skirted the trap set for her. “That is not fair, my Lord, those are very different worlds.”

“I agree, yet spread the programs throughout the Empire is what you asked me to do.”

The reply stung the councillor. “My Lord, obviously there would have to be accommodations made for different planets. But this can always be worked out.” She continued. “We must help more, do more, make people become better.”

“Make people?” The Dark Lord raised his eyebrows at that. “You would make me into an authoritarian autocrat, governing everyone’s lives to the slightest degree.” He shook his head. “Do you understand what you are saying?”

“That is not …” The Dark Lord held up his hand to stop the flow of words.

“It is not what you intend, but what it would become.” He regarded the Councillor for a fraction. “It is the Law, the Law of Unintended Consequences. It is what happens when something is done and the result is completely different to what was intended. In the interest of doing good, you will bring evil.”

“Are you serious?” Ymaus Tyon was shocked to the core of her being.

“Very serious. A question, how many of those who were in school with you followed on with the schooling and programs available and that you took advantage of?”

With a sigh, the Councillor sat back in her chair. “About half sire, and most never went as far as I did.”

“And the others?” The Dark Lord pressed.

“Some went into different occupations. Some married, others became clerks, labourers and the like.” Ymaus remained slumped in her chair. “And some fell into drug and other substances addiction.”

“So they all made their choices, for good or for ill, without being forced. Those who go to the frontier worlds are better prepared than most, generally speaking. Not always, some who go cannot survive the rigours involved, and breakdown.” The Dark Lord paused, then continued. “There are programs in plenty for those who fail, or for those who need more help.” He shook his head. “Interference from me will not help.”

Silence fell between them for a fraction.

“So my Lord, they are abandoned and left to their fate?” Ymaus sounded bitter.

“No, but I do not interfere with planetary affairs unless necessary. As I said, there are programs that can help them, if they wish it. But I will not force them, that road is dangerous and I will not take it.”

“So it is up to the planet sire?” The flat statement betrayed Ymaus’ disappointment.

“And the Galactic Council, should additional help be needed.” The Dark Lord gave a sympathetic look to Ymaus Tyon. “Do not be dismayed, Councillor. You must have realised how unlikely to be granted was your request.” He stood and moved to the door. “Come, we will meet again. But certain matters are for the various galaxies, others the clusters but here, the High Council must only deal with the highest matters, the most serious of concerns. This must be the way or you will be consumed with so much detail, you will never do the work you were sent here for.”

Out in the corridor, they found Lea Cania and Lady Taryn talking. Stopping, Lea gave a bow to the Dark Lord, acknowledged with a nod. “I see you are doing the return trip again, Miss Cania.” Lea smiled, and unable to give a sensible answer to the Dark Lord’s comment, addressed the Councillor.

“Councillor, I will guide you back to the Stewards office.

“Thank you, and good day to you Lady.”

“Thank you Councillor.” Lady Taryn replied and the two left.

. After a fraction’s silence, Lady Taryn turned to the Dark Lord. “You just wanted me here to throw her off, didn’t you?”

“Of course, I wanted to see how she would react. I needed to get her measure.” Was the calm reply.

Lady Taryn was disgruntled. “I think that it was a cruel trick.”

“Do not hold that against me Taryn, sometimes we must be a little cruel to show the way. Ymaus Tyon needs to see that she must look deeper and think of larger matters.”

The usual four had come out and joined the pair.

“Well, she wasn’t thrown off much.” The Dark Lord’s companion commented.

“Indeed, she is a tough one. She rebounded well.” Was Lady Dana’s observation.

“Agreed but did you notice how she stuck to her program. She needs to think bigger. The problems she wants to attack belong at galactic or cluster level at best. The High Council needs to set the agenda for the lower levels, not interfere with programs that belong at the level of a planet. We show the way there by what we do when we help planets at the colony stage. It’s up to federated and associated worlds to work these things out for themselves.”

“And if they don’t, what then?” Lady Andrea asked as they walked back to the study, Lady Taryn following, her interest clear.

“As much as the media likes to think I believe otherwise, the constitution gives the right of free speech to all worlds in the Empire. There are more like Ymaus Tyon out there, as much as she believes she is alone!”

“Okay,” Lady Andrea said, “you think that this will do any good? I don’t really see what you are doing here.”

“This council will sit for another three years and most will stand again. However our good Councillor will, I believe, stand down and become an advocate for those she believes are downtrodden. I see this as the most likely outcome of our talks.”

The Ladies did not look convinced as they entered the study, Lady Taryn was deep in thought however, pondering the Dark Lords actions in dealing with the council.

*********

Star Commander Vis Vistricer looked out his wet window onto a rain soaked forest of high rise buildings. It had been several months since he had arrived in Tihab, months of hard work filled with long days of meetings, parades and visits to bases and star ships. Meeting the troops and spacers was the most enjoyable of these activities he felt, turning around as General Julia Resonier, Chief of Staff to the Star Commander entered. “And how are things so far today? What pleadings do you bring to me, General?”

“Just one worthy of your attention sir, Councillor Simone of Christos wishes to meet with you.”

“Really? Did she say why?”

“Only that the matter is delicate and that she would explain in person. She also said that others were involved.”

Vis Vistricer gave his Chief of Staff a sharp look at that. “I dislike it when politicians become cryptic. It never means anything good.”

“Her final comment was that you would understand.”

The Star Commander sat at his desk. “The Councillor has just returned from the Fifth Cluster as I recall.” He murmured to himself, then glanced at his schedule. After a fraction he looked up at his Chief of Staff. “Tell the Councillor that I will see her at the eleventh period.”

“You have a meeting then with Colonel Frapus of medical about long term effects of stellar radiation exposure.” General Resonier pointed out.

“Push it back.” The Star Commander replied.

“Yes sir. Now one other item, the relocation of the fleet and the prepositioning of the scouting force.”

“Yes, the last of the Barrows is almost ready I believe.” Vis Vistricer had smiled when he had been told of the Dark Lord’s orders.

“Yes sir, the Barrows Star. She has a crew but the Task force needs a commander.”

“And the man is already there, the commander of Detachment T.” The Star Commander waited for a reaction. He wasn’t disappointed.

“Commodore Traska?” The General was surprised. “He has been a Commodore for about eight months?”

“Yes, but he and his detachment have done some very delicate and dangerous work, both for me and our Master. I trust him and he has been to flag school.” Vis Vistricer replied.

General Julia Resonier had gone from surprise to jaw dropping astonishment. Not wanting to know, she simply said. “That is your decision sir?”

“Yes, send a message to the Commodore, ordering him here. He will need to be confirmed by our Master. Advise the Marshal of the Legions office as well.”

“Yes sir.” His chief of staff hesitated. “Sir, the Marshal?”

“Yes, he is due to return from his farewell cruise.”

“Indeed sir, this evening at the nineteenth period. Do you intend to meet him?”

“Of course. The Marshall has been a tower of strength with all this nastiness. I would not have done half as well without him.” Vis Vistricer was silent for a fraction. “I wish that he could stay on in many ways.” He smiled for a fraction. “But let us continue the day. Grand Admiral Mont De Templer is escorting him?”

“Yes, by tradition the senior active commander escorts the outgoing head of the Legion.” She smiled, “Right to the Dark Lord.”

With a laugh they continued.

*********

Simone of Christos was punctual, as always.

“Thank you for seeing me, Star Commander.” Simone said as she settled in the comfortable chair set in the informal talking area of the spacious office.

“My door is always open to members of the council.” Vis Vistricer was studiously polite. There was a pause while Vis Vistricer waited for his guest to open the conversation. Simone understood the reasons and was somewhat grateful.

“You know that I was visited my home planet recently?”

The Star Commander nodded, his eyes on his guest.

“I met with many of the people of the planet, as well as of the cluster. There was one who stood out.” Simone smiled a private smile. “Perhaps you can guess who?”

Vis Vistricer sat back abruptly. He felt a sinking sensation.

“Jenna.” He breathed.

“Indeed.” Simone looked at the Star Commander. She spoke slowly. “When I first met with our Master, months ago. He made a point of asking me to give her his good wishes.” There was a thoughtful look on her face. “I don’t believe that our Master does anything by accident. I think that he meant me to talk to Jenna, so that Jenna could make her appeal.”

“Don’t tell me, she wants to join the Legion.” There was a profound shake of the Star Commanders head.

“You have fully plumbed my depths.” The smile was wide on the Councillors face.

The Star Commander stood and walked back and forth several times, then stopped and sat.

Looking at Simone of Christos, he shook his head again. “If it was just you, me and the Legion involved, I would say not a chance, but the Dark Lord’s involvement worries me. You weren’t there when …” His voice trailed off. A thought crossed his mind.

“Commodore Traska has been ordered to Tihab. I will confrere with him when he arrives.”

“He was the officer who brought Jenna to Christos wasn’t he?” A nod confirmed this. “I had an interesting report on him, he was diligent in following his instructions. Also Jenna and he became close I was told. Interesting.” She repeated. “The two here the same time. Coincidence?”

“Not really, I just ordered him here today.” As Simone’s comment sank in a surprised expression appeared on Vis Vistricers face. “Jenna is here, in the capital?” His voice actually rose.

“Yes, for convenience I put her on my staff so that she has protection. Even with an imperial pardon, there could be complications.”

“Yes we don’t want that! Perhaps you could emphasise to her to stay away from the palace. The Imperial Guard might get the wrong idea.” The Star Commander stood. “I thank you for coming, I will discuss this with Commodore Traska when he arrives. Until then, I would request that this remains between the three of us.”

“Of course, I have not even discussed the idea with my staff.” Simone also stood. “Did you know that Jenna had a daughter?” On Christos sons were with their fathers and were never mentioned, only daughters.

“No, but I know little about your planet, although yours is one of the greatest supporters of the empire.”

“Yes, we are a very private people with our own unique customs.”

“And sensible enough not to run contrary to the wishes of our Master, for which I am grateful.” At the surprised expression of the Councillor, he added. “I have worked with several members of the Legion who hailed from Christos. They were uniformly excellent.”

Simone showed her pleasure at the compliment.

“You will let me know?”

“Of course,” Vis Vistricer held the door open. “And thank you for coming. Councillor.” He watched as the councillor left, obscurely pleased that Jenna was not present. He turned to his very efficient secretary. “Colonel Frapus of medical is here?”

The colonel stood and stepped forward at a wave of the hand.