Head Steward Grada Karkart, Senior Administrator Madla Dinsta, Security Chief Ferni Massett and Administrative Assistant Lea Cania all strode purposefully along the corridors to a meeting with their Master, the Dark Lord. Behind their backs, the staff referred to them as ‘The Big Four.’ The staff didn’t think that they knew this but it had brought grins to their faces and laughter from the Dark Lord when he was told. Unusually, the Ladies had been more restrained.

This was not on their minds now. They knew of the deployment into clusters three and four, and that the Dark Lord had sent three Ladies of the Circle on a mission.

The usual grouping of ladies were outside the door leading to the study.

“Ladies.” Was followed by a nod of the head.

“They’re back.” Sydney gave her usual big smile. “Come right in.” Through the small ante room into the study she went followed by Taryn. “The big four are here.” Brought grimaces and strained smiles.

Entering, they noted that Dark Lords usual companion was sitting near him while other Ladies were scattered around the room, and their heads raised with grins at the announcement. Also present were Tyler, Sofia and Lisa, returned safely to all the staffs’ relief. The other Ladies were not so kind.

“Where are the photos?” Dana asked.

“You wore those shoes?” Was Andreas question to Tyler.

“Want? No souvenir?” from Luca. Others reacted in a similar vein. The palace staff had no idea what a souvenir or photos was but hid their smiles about the shoe comment.

“Welcome. All of you.” The Dark Lord was as relaxed as ever, or was he? Grada was on alert. Carefully he studied the Dark Lord, thinking once again that he was so unremarkable in appearance that he could walk down any street and not be recognised. But the potential for contact with invaders was high and all of Tihab was on edge while the recent announcing of guilty verdicts for all the conspirators in both the treason trials already had the planet abuzz. Both the disgraced councillors and admirals had been found guilty and now guilty verdicts were in for those charged in the Star Builders case. Strictly speaking, this was not his problem, but anything that had a bearing on the palace was something for the Head Steward to worry about.

“Head Steward, the first ship to ship contact has taken place. Rear Admiral Traska showed masterly tactics again. I will need to see all three senior officials today. Kindly contact them and arrange the best time.”

“Indeed sire we will get onto this immediately.”

“Also, please have Commander Rita Caenett, Special Assistant Anis Le Brackel and Sabra Boon attend at the same time. I will speak with those three afterwards.”

“After you meet with the High Command, sire?”

“As a manner of speaking. They will be at the meeting.” The Ladies present all looked at the palace staff with interest.

Ferni opened her mouth, then closed it when the Dark Lord held up his hand.

“They need to know what not to report. By giving them access we also make them responsible for it.”

“Was there anything else, sire?” Grada spoke after glancing at the security chief who looked unconvinced.

“I anticipate that at least some of those awaiting their sentences will be appealing to me once they receive them. You recall my instructions on the matter?”

“We do my Lord, and we will let you know if any plead is received.”

“Very good.”

“One question sire.” After a pause Grada continued. “Do you wish for any other of the palace staff else to be at the meeting?”

The Dark Lord considered the question, then smiled.

“Miss Cania, you may attend and take minutes.”

Keeping her face carefully blank, Lea simply responded, “Yes sire.”

A smiling nod sent them on their way.

*********

Walking back, Grada spoke first to Madla Distra.

“Get onto the First Councillor. It has to be today.” He then turned to Lea, “Tell Anis to call in Sabra and we will give the exact time when we have it.” Turning to Ferni, “Do you have anything?”

“Nothing.” The Security Chief shook her head.

“OK, I will talk to the Admiral of the Legion and the Star Commander as well if necessary.” He paused. “Any questions?”

There was silence for a fraction then Lea spoke.

“What are minutes?”

There was consternation on every face as they stopped and stared at each other.

*********

Back in the study, the Dark Lords companion put down her book and stared at him.

“You are evil!” She said while some of the ladies chuckled.

He closed His book and raised an eyebrow.

“All she has to do is ask?”

The brown haired, blue eyed companion snorted. “As if! As always when you come out with your anachronisms everyone is either too scared to ask or just doesn’t want to appear foolish!”

The question was considered and He raised one finger. “Well, one, I want them scared of me, it keeps them alive. And two …” He smiled as He raised a second finger. “That is just my little joke.”

There was silence, then laughter.

“But, if they ask, I will tell them, without laughing.”

With more chuckles, all the Ladies went back to what they were doing earlier. They didn’t have to ask what Tyler, Sofia and Lisa had done, they already knew.

The Dark Lord sat back in his chair. He had a lot to think about.

*********

The three senior officials of the Empire greeted each other in the secure parking area of the palace.

“Greetings, Star Commander, Admiral.”

“Good day, First Councillor.” “Nice to see you First Councillor.”

Having explained pleasantries, they continued chatting on their way to the secure transit tube.

Following along behind was Commander Rita Caenett. At the transit tube, the First Councillor stopped and turned.

“My apologies, Commander. It is good to see you as well.”

“Thank you First Councillor.”

“Do you have any idea why we have been called?”

“No more than you, the Admiral or the Star Commander, but we shall soon find out what our Master has in store for us.” Rita spoke carefully. There was no way she was going to speculate before the meeting. In any case, she had no idea why she needed to be there.

“And he is not easy to read.” The High Councillor smiled, than continued. “Glad to be back with the Legion?”

“Very glad, sir.” Rita made a rueful face. “There is just one drawback.” Both senior officers turned and looked at her. They remembered the Dark Lords comment when they had first met Rita. “I don’t have a suite at the palace any more. Oh, and I have to pay taxes!”

There was silence then everyone laughed!

They were still chuckling when they stepped out into the Stewards office. Waiting for them was Lea Cania, Anis Le Brackel and Sabra Boon.

Smiles were exchanged between the four women but there was no time for any small talk. “He is waiting.” Lea spoke quietly.

There was some desultory talk as they meandered their way to the study. All but Lea felt the tightness in the stomach one gets when going into an unknown situation. And going to meet with the Dark Lord would always be like that.

*********

Especially nervous was Special Assistant Anis Le Brackel. Having been brought into the palace to replace Lieutenant Commander Rita Caenett on the fifteenth Tonkis, she still felt new and uncertain in her position. Although connected by both her mother and a great uncle, she and the rest of the family had never asked about the palace. Neither mother nor uncle discussed what they had done there except on very rare occasions and then only in a cryptic fashion. Needless to say Anis was always intensely curious about the palace and, before the return of the Dark Lord, had visited once.

The arrival of an interview request was a surprise, but she had agreed immediately. On learning of the invitation, all her mother said was ‘You’ll do well.’ When advice was solicited, her mother pursed her lips then said to answer all questions honestly.

The day of the interview was nerve wracking for Anis. She had not expected that it was to be held at her apartment.

“Hi, I am Taryn.” A slim, pale woman with unusually short black hair introduced herself.

“And I am Lea.”

“Thank you, please come in.”

There were the usual formalities, Anis produced her identification and comm unit. Lea asked several questions about Anis background, work, education and training. Taryn sat quietly watching while these preliminaries took place.

“What do you know about the palace?” Lea asked.

“Very little. Only what everyone else knows.” Anis sat forward. “To be honest I have always wondered. Mum and Uncle never spoke about their experiences.” She frowned. “Sometime they would make a comment and smile. No one ever understood it though.” With a raising of her hands she sat back. “We were brought up to never ask about the palace.”

“Why?” Taryn asked, cocking her head on one side.

“I don’t know.” Came with another frown. “When I was young, still in school I went there once. It was wonderful but intimidating. That was about fifteen years ago, before He returned.”

“What would you like to do in the palace?” Lea asked.

“I have thought about that since your contact. Nothing to do with the Dark Lord! I would be terrified! Maybe something to do with showing the tours around or the like. I like working with the public.”

“You would be scared of the Dark Lord? You would recognise Him?” Taryn asked with a smile. Lea also smiled, although hers was rueful.

“Oh I am sure that I would. He must be awfully grand but frightening!”

The two ladies looked at each other and rose. Taryn giving a nod as she did so.

Anis, flustered, also rose thinking that she had made a dreadful mistake. “I mean …”

Lea smiled. “You were not wrong, or right, don’t worry about it.”

Taryn smiled as well. “We will take our leave. Your mother is here, she let herself in with the code you gave her.”

“What?” Anis was startled, had she said that? Just then the access door slid open and Anis mother stepped in raising her eyebrows as she saw who was there, she had not known that the interview was at this time as her daughter had neglected to tell her.

“Oh, I didn’t realise that you had …” She slowly came to a stop, staring at the two women.

“We were just leaving. It was a pleasure and Anis, we will be back in touch with you.” Taryn gave a charming smile as she turned to Anis mother.

“Mrs. Le Brackel.”

“Lady, Madam.” Anis watched in shock as her mother bowed her head.

After the door slid shut, mother and daughter exchanged looks. “I didn’t think that one of the interviewers would be a member of the Circle, dear,” her mother said.

Anis sat back down and stared at her mother. At first she could not speak.

“A Lady of the …” She managed.

“Yes, I recognised her.”

“Oh.”

Her mother smiled. “It’s ok, how would you know? They can disguise themselves when they want to.” She gave a sigh, “You will see. And you will learn why I could never talk about the palace.”

“How do you know that?” The surprise was clear.

“She said that they would be back to you.” Again a somewhat forlorn smile. “Anyway, let’s put it out of our minds for now. I will take you to lunch,” She gave a soft laugh, “to celebrate.”

*********

“Everyone is here, good.” The Dark Lord glanced over the group. “Find a seat please, we may be here for a while.”

There was the usual shuffling around but everyone was soon comfortable seated.

Sabra Boon looked at the people attending, this was the highest one could get in the empire. She was not particularly comfortable, and still had the occasional nightmare about Lia’s head falling to the ground. She was also aware of how hated she was by the other news professionals because of her unique status with the palace. That last she rather enjoyed.

The Dark Lord terrified her still though. Only twice had she met briefly with Him and both times had underlined to her his power. She had been told that she would have to talk to him after this meeting and she wasn’t looking forward to that. As usual the Ladies were wearing their normal dress, that is, each was wearing clothes that no one else had ever seen before. Sabra was wearing a comfortable, although expensive white business trouser suit. Most inhabitants of Tihab wore colourful attire but Sabra, especially when she went to the palace preferred to dress in in the formal trouser suit. She considered it comfortable and versatile as well as appropriate.

The shuffling died away and everyone fell silent.

“Before we begin, First Councillor, do you have anything to say?”

Les Doman Resta stood. “The reports I have received indicate that there is a level of uncertainty amongst many of the people of the Empire, sire. However there is also a mood of resolve and a willingness to stand by you and follow you. Most of the people in the Empire are now aware of the impending attack and are reassured that you are taking steps to prevent it.” The movements of the fleet could not be disguised and all recognised that. “I think that the Admiral of the Legion will confirm this by being able to inform you that recruitment is at record highs. Even from planets that have not in the past been strong supporters of the Legion.” He paused and continued.

“Here on Tihab and other planets in the galaxy there is also anticipation regarding the sentencing of the traitors. All have been found guilty, so all that remains is the sentencing. I think that the people are waiting to see what you will do when the sentences are announced.” He paused again, then held himself erect.

“Sire, my term as First Councillor will expire at the end of this year. While you could extend my term, it is my fervent desire that you do not. On your instructions, I will draw up a list of potential candidates for your consideration. You may of course name anyone you wish to the position.” He bowed and sat down.

“Thank you First Councillor. As to your future, I understand and we will discuss that soon.” The Dark Lord turned to His military advisers. “Star Commander, Admiral, would both of you like to speak?”

Star Commander Vis Vistricer stood. “We have received a hyper transmission that the alien scout vehicle and the forces in the fourth cluster are in contact. I have no information beyond that. I can report that the sowing of stealthy satellites in exposed areas of other galaxies has continued. As well, the manufacture of these satellites has now been extended to each cluster. This will increase the production and relieve strain on other manufacturing facilities.” He bowed and sat down. Admiral of the Legion, Mont De Templer then stood in his swift unbending way.

“I have no information either regarding the actions in the fourth cluster.” He paused, then continued. “Generally, the legion is in good shape. Recruitment is up and the redeployment of the fleet has been completed according to your instructions.” Sabra Boon noted the Admirals frown at that statement. Was there a disagreement there?

“There are no known areas of conflict anywhere in the Empire. All areas of insurrection have been subdued.” The smile returned to the Admirals face. “Once the news of your return was spread throughout the Empire, most stopped fighting and sought an agreement. While two continued the struggle, we were still able to conclude an armistice. The final agreements are in place now and for that I must offer my congratulations to the First Councillor and the diplomatic team he has assembled.” Mont De Templer gave the First Councillor a bow. “With regard to the sentencing of the traitors Vice Admiral Vic Tappa, Rear Admiral Tupper Hills and those of their staffs that were involved, I expect the court’s decision soon. But I cannot guarantee that.” The Admiral paused. “I too recall your instructions in that matter sire.” He bowed and sat down.

The Dark Lord sat still for a fraction then stirred.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

“I thank all three of you for your reports. First Councillor I will await your reports on the final agreements with the wayward planets. Admiral, I had my reasons for the dispersal of the fleet in the manner it was. I will tell you now, why.”

The tension in the room, never very far away screwed itself to a nerve wracking degree.

“I have described to you what we face. We easily outnumber the Kingdoms forces, however we face the disadvantage of not knowing where they will strike while they have the ability to concentrate against us. This is about to become clearer.” He waved his hand and Tyler, Sofia and Lisa stepped forward. The Dark Lord nodded to them.

“We recently returned from the fourth cluster. I went to Admiral Traska’s force. This is my report.” Tyler stepped back after handing over a data cube to the Admiral.

“I went to Fleet Admiral Stako.” Sofia handed over a data cube.

“And I, Admiral der Watt.” Lisa added, also with the small data cube.

The three Ladies returned to their seats. Mont De Templer sat still, struggling to control his face while pocketing the crystals. Even though he was now somewhat used to the Ladies and the Dark Lord, this time he was caught off guard.

“The reports will be erased in one standard week.” The Dark Lord said, ignoring Mont De Templers surprise. “That will give you enough time to review them. They cannot be copied so make sure that you make all the notes you need. Please also allow time for all three of you to view the reports. They should not be shown to anyone else. They are for you alone.”

“Of course sire.” Mont De Templer hastily revised his plan to share the reports with his staff. He turned to Les Doman Resta. “Will tomorrow give you enough time, First Councillor? We can view the reports in my apartment.”

“I will have to check the schedule imposed on me by my staff, but I am sure that time can be made.” The reply came with a smile. The Star Commander also gave his assent.

“If we have questions sire?” The Admiral directed the question to the Dark Lord.

“Just make your request to the Head Steward. Time will be made. You do not need to be specific about what you need.” The Dark Lord replied.

“Thank you sire.”

*********

Lea had been taking notes on her comm. The Dark Lords companion had earlier taken her aside and whispered to her what she had to do. Much relieved, Lea decided that she would keep that bit of information to herself!

*********

With a sigh, the Dark Lord sat back in his chair. “The first is the easiest, although not always. There will be more.” The Star Commander and the Admiral both nodded in agreement. “As the Burning Sun was not able to send a report about being attacked, this will raise a level of uncertainty amongst the Kingdoms rulers. But they will push ahead until they know for sure.”

“Indeed, there are other craft being sent to other galaxies. When these also disappear, they will have two options. One is to send a stronger force to perhaps investigate, while the second is to stop sending forces, then retrench, review plans and possibly send a full invasion force.” He looked around the room. “I would have your thoughts.”

The First Councillor remained silent, waiting for the legion officers to speak first. None were surprised at the information the Dark Lord already had. They knew that the Ladies would have reported to him in full anyway.

The two most senior officers in the Legion considered their replies. After an exchange of glances, Vis Vistricer spoke first. “Perhaps it is just me sire, but my reaction would be to send a force to attack the strongest part of the closest galaxy. I would concentrate on the most likely habitable zones and look for a planet to take over and ransack for information. Perhaps two jumps would be required, one in force to the edge and one to the selected area.” He paused. “That is in any case, my best guess. I have nothing more to base any recommendation on.”

There was silence for a fraction followed by a quiet. “Thank you Star Commander. Admiral, what are your thoughts?” The Dark Lord turned to the Administrative head of the Legion.

“While I agree with the Star Commander in part, I would first canvas my advisers to see what they would suggest. In particular I would be concerned about unrest. Also we have this mysterious person who works behind the scenes. I agree another attack is coming but am unsure at what part of the empire.”

The Dark Lord nodded. He turned to the third person who was a member of his senior advisors. “First Councillor, you have been quiet. What have you to say?”

Les Doman Resta sat back in his chair and steepled his fingers. “I agree with the Star Commander, in part and also agree with the Admiral of the Legion, again, in part. Insurrection due to unrest is a possibility in the society that you call the Kingdom. However, insurrection can only come with the support of both the military and the public. A coup by the military is a greater possibility depending on how tight a hold the leaders of the Kingdom have on the military. I am looking forward to reading the reports on this ship and its crew the Legion has so neatly trapped.”

After a pause, the First Councillor continued. “The attacks will, I believe, continue at least for the foreseeable future. For two reasons. The first is this mysterious person you have referred to in the past will, having started this, feel he must continue.” The Dark Lord nodded at this. “The second is much the same. The rulers, whoever they are, will not want to appear weak and will push the military to continue. But I cannot, without further information predict the reaction of the military. Neither can I predict where the next contact will be made.”

There was silence. The Dark Lord looked around. “Does anyone wish to say anything?”

Lady Tyler stood up. “There were slaves on that ship. That indicates a brutal and oppressive regime. I wonder if it is more fragile than it appears to be. If we defeat the ones coming against us, perhaps it will fall apart under its own weight.” She sat back down.

There was silence as Lady Tyler’s remarks were considered. The three councillors had stared at the sound of slaves but maintained their silence. After a fraction, the Dark Lord stirred. “There are many factors to consider. Slaves will at times fight and even die for their master, or turn against them with the least provocation. Often only at the end will the state collapse. Also that is not the only factor to consider. There are others.” He shook his head. “It is my regret that there is little we can do for the slaves at this time.”

The Dark Lord turned to the Star Commander and the Admiral. “The fleet will have to be dispersed further.” He smiled. “And now you know the reasons for the fleet being in the locations that I had you preposition them. Admiral, Star Commander, you must make the best estimates that you can. Take what risks you feel necessary. Seed what systems that you feel will be vulnerable. Look at the galaxies from the Kingdoms point of view. Act as if you were going to attack the galaxy we call K113. Then reverse it.” The two commanders nodded, that was a good technique.

“I fear, Star Commander, that it will be necessary for you to station yourself closer to the action and exercise your abilities in direct command of the threatened areas. I know that you have not said anything but that is where you should be and why I gave you the rank.” He turned to Mont De Templer who was smiling. “You have something to say, Admiral?” Came with a raised eyebrow.

“Only that was going to be my recommendation sire.” The Admiral turned to Vis Vistricer. “I will get you on a courier as soon as possible Vis.”

“Not as quickly as that.” Came the laughing response. “I do have a few things to do here before I go to scare the pants off the admirals, wherever I go.” He turned to Commander Rita Caenett. “I would like you to come with me as one of my aides. I will have need of you.”

“Hey stop stealing all my best people!” Mont De Templer protested. Rita though it best to keep her thoughts to herself.

The Dark Lord smiled. “I think that it would be a good idea for the good Commander also to view the Ladies reports.” To this comment, Ladies Tyler, Sofia and Lisa gave vigorous assent. Keeping his face and voice sober the Dark Lord continued. “I believe that she may give a different view point that you may find interesting and insightful.”

“Indeed sire.” The three men gave the commander speculative looks. Rita groaned inwardly.

“That is all I can give you at this time. Miss Cania?” With a wave of his hand he brought her over. “If you will distribute your notes to all who need them. Include the Head Steward and senior staff as well.”

“Yes sire.”

“With your permission, sire.” Both senior officers saluted and left followed by the First Councillor. Lea Cania also left, leaving just Commander Rita Caenett, Special Assistant Anis Le Brackel and Sabra Boon facing the Dark Lord and a roomful of Ladies of the Circle. Anis and Sabra both felt the same way, while the room was full with other people, it wasn’t so bad, but now, not alone. The Ladies didn’t count, they were almost as bad as the Dark Lord.

“Come.” The Dark Lord waved the three over to where he was sitting. The Ladies watched avidly, Anis thought although the Dark Lords Companion, as she was thought of, had a somewhat sympathetic look on her face.

“Well, Sabra Boon, you have seen the inner working of the high command. Boring isn’t it?”

“My Lord, it was many things but boring was not one of them.” The news reporter was honest in her answer.

That brought a smile and a question in response. “What do you intend to say and how do you intend to present it?”

“I intend to tell the truth, that we as an Empire are under threat from an unknown power in a distant galaxy. That you have met with your highest councillors and have taken precautions to protect the citizens, but that wars are unpredictable and that anything could happen.”

“Hmmm.” He turned to the remaining staff member. “Special Assistant Anis Le Brackel, what do you say?”

“As a summery, I have no objection sire. But I would need to sit down with Ms. Boon and go over the details. I also have a question, the Kingdom in galaxy K113, do they have the capability to monitor the news media.”

“Not at this time, but if they come in force, then they might. But I do not believe that will happen soon.”

Anis composed her face in thought. “We must be careful in what we say, anyway.” She turned to Sabra. “These are going to be rough days. We must rally the people behind the Legion. But also we must not give out any information that could benefit the Kingdom. You understand?”

“I agree,” Commander Rita Caenett interposed. “Sabra, we must be careful in what we release to the empire. Lie? No, but not saying is not lying.”

“I will not lie to the people. If they think that I am just a mouthpiece for the palace, I will lose all my credibility.” Sabra was forthright in her objection.

“You will not lie for us. I am not asking you for that. But military information, such as movements of the fleets must remain confidential. You will have noted that I did not give specific instructions to the Star Commander or the Admiral. Just exhorted them to use their talents and their judgement to the best of their abilities.” The Dark Lord spoke quietly.

“Yes sire, I understand.” Sabra sounded somewhat abashed.

“Soon you will receive a message from Tobis Nenna. You must bring that message to the palace before playing it on your show. I am sure that the fleet’s staff have reviewed it but I would like to make sure from our perspective as well.” The Dark Lord held Sabra with his level gaze. “Do you understand?”

“I do sire.”

“From your part, you will get a deeper understanding of how the Empire actually works, how I am an absolute ruler, but an absolute ruler that has limits on his power.” He smiled. It was a cold smile. “Some of the time.”

Sabra froze, she heard a sharp intake of breath from the Ladies and saw the blue eyed, brown haired companion give the Dark Lord a sharp look. He continued in a quieter voice. “That was not a warning, but a reminder. I do not punish innocent mistakes, but do not bank on my goodwill being unconditional. I have suffered from that in the past, when those whom I employed took too much on themselves for granted.”

Unable to speak, Sabra just nodded.

“Do your best and there will not be a need to worry. If you have a conflict between your conscience and what is required of you, say so. I do not expect you to submit to something that is the antithesis of your personal honour or code. If you have a real disagreement, then come to see me, I will hear you.” He smiled again. “But it has to be a disagreement of conscience, not of something you want to do because it will make you look good.”

The Dark Lord surveyed the news reporter closely.

“You are the first person of the news media to ever have penetrated these walls. So be a good ambassador!” It was a kindly smile that he gave the still shaken woman. She nodded as the Dark Lord stood, placing his hands in his pockets, a very unusual gesture for most of the people of the Empire but one that was characteristic of Him. “Now go and work your magic.” Sent them on their way.

*********

The walk back to the Stewards office was in silence. Arriving, the Head Steward gave them a look and then a closer second one. “It appears that our Master has given you something to think about.” Rita, Sabra and Anis exchanged a glance and nodded as Garda continued. “Well here is something more. The first report has arrived. Go over it and decide how much we can release. You can work it in with a report on the meeting today and have it ready, Sabra for your evening broadcast if possible.”

Commander Rita Caenett smiled at the Head Steward. “Sabra just got a touch of our Masters frostier side.” They both gave the reporter a sympathetic look.

Pulling herself together, Sabra nodded. “If I could have the use of my usual space?”

“Of course.” The Head Steward smiled.

As the three women left Grada felt a hand on his shoulder and stiffened. There was a familiar chuckle.

“I may have been a little, shall we say, intimidating, with the young lady Boon. But I do not want her to do something foolish.” All the people of the Empire were young compared to the Dark Lord and the Ladies.

“Sire, she is a news reporter, one who stayed friends with Tobis Nenna when it would have been better for her to have dropped him, career wise that is.” The Head Steward had learned that he could speak openly and honestly with the Dark Lord

“Indeed, I will leave this in your hands.” The Dark Lord left.

*********

“Ready to go … stand by, Sabra, go” was followed by a pointed finger.

With a brilliant smile to match her stark white and somewhat short dress, Sabra began. “There is news from the Fourth Cluster. In the words of the Palace, Rear Admiral Traska and his Detachment T has neatly trapped a scout from a distant galaxy. Details are few and I cannot share them all but …”

*********

“That’s it from the palace tonight. I would like to give my thanks to all at the Palace, the Legion and the Council for their patience and assistance. Good Night.”

There was a fractions worth of smiles into the remote sensor’s. Then the lights went off and the floor manager called “That’s it!”

As Sabra stood up and moved away from her high chair, the news manager walked over to her. “You really have some contacts in the palace.” Came with a speculative look. “But you will never say who.”

Sabra smiled, a secretive smile. “I’m going for a drink.” She turned to her co-host. “Coming for a drink, Graim?”

“Family business tonight, Sabra, give me a back-to-you.” The saying was an old joke between them. They never went out together.

*********

After finishing the final details of the broadcast and doing some prep work for the next day, Sabra left the combined shop, office and apartment building and walked to a nearby lively eating and drinking area. Arriving at her regular meeting place and going to the bar, she waved to the manager who nodded and smiled. Drawing her usual drink, coloured and flavoured Findus sparkling water, he handed it to her.

Thanking him, Sabra joined her friends at their customary table, one on a dais and up against a wall with a good view of the crowd. While not full at this time, it was just after the twentieth period, the bar was getting busy even though it was in the middle of the week. Already waiting, were the usual group, two woman reporters, one woman host and three male reporters.

“Nice reporting tonight Sabra, stole a march on everyone.” One of the male reporters smiled. A reporter on business, he wasn’t at all jealous. “Let me have a nod, if something comes up on the Star Builders mess.”

“Well Reapa, I can tell you the sentences will likely be tomorrow from the High Court. Possibly the Legion as well. But that is just an appreciation, I have nothing from the courts.”

“Thanks, I will be there just in case!” Reapa laughed.

The rest of the reporters at the table looked at Sabra with admiration, mixed with a small amount of jealously. The other host, a native of Tihab with the name Si Ra Dom, gave a genuine smile. An old friend since Sabra had come to Tihab, she had been something of a mentor for the native of Findus VI. Sabra was one of those who worked hard at her passion for news. ‘Discovered’ by a media organisation, she had left the allied Kingdom to work for the group who sponsored her move to Tihab. There she had worked out her contract and was approached by another group for her current show. Now, with her unique access to the palace, she was on her way to becoming a star.

There was the usual chit chat and smiling barbs thrown back and forth. Some of the members of other media organisations dropped by the table to offer congratulations. Then Si leaned forward.

“Better watch out. Brac Ronson is here.”

Sabra made a face. “Has he been saying anything?” Brac Ronson had been displaced by Sabra for the co-host seat.

“Some not very complementary things about how you get your information. Details available but unnecessary.” Le Rakablle, a friendly associate made a face.

Marc Biss, another reporter laughed. “Not nice, but they were creative. I didn’t think that he had that much of an imagination.”

Sabra frowned, casually she scanned the crowd. Brac Ronson had his back to her and was standing near the bar. As she watched, he threw the contents of the container he was holding down his throat. She frowned at this, Ronson was not a happy drunk. Her attention on Ronson, she never noticed a casually dressed man and woman enter the bar.

Face flushed, Ronson walked over to where Sabre was sitting, concentrating on the impending scene she was sure to be enduring. Doing so she also missed the two beautiful women followed by two man who also came in.

Marc didn’t, he nudged Reapa beside him and muttered. “Did you see those two?”

Reapa nodded, “Very nice. Let’s watch and see if they are meeting someone.”

Standing a couple of metres from the table Brac Ronson swayed back and forth. Not a tall man for Tihab, he was considered good looking in some circles. Having a full measure of arrogance and pride, he was still angered at being replaced by Sabra. “Well, the queen with her court” he sneered. Sabra ignored him. Unnoticed, the couple had started to edge closer watching the scene, the woman throwing a warning look at the man and saying something in a low voice to him.

Marc Biss gave Ronson a sweeping glance. “You’re drunk, go home Brac, before the patrol finds you.”

“Yes Brac, head home.” Si Ra Dom added. She had known Ronson for many years and knew his moods well.

“Never thought to see you here Si, sucking up to the new princess.”

Gone from a queen to a princess. Sabra thought inconsequently. Better keep my mouth shut.

“Nothing to say, bitch?” Brac Ronson took two steps and grabbed Sabra’s arm. Bad move. The woman had left the man and glided forward. To the consternation of the group and others around them, when she laid her hand on the arm that was holding Sabra, Brac roared in pain, let Sabra go and sank to his knees.

“Are you unharmed?” Went to Sabra.

Belatedly recognising the Lady as the Dark Lords companion, Sabra stared then stood. “I am fine, Lady.” She replied.

The occupants of the table stared and with fluttered movements all rose as well. Nearby table occupants watched in surprise along with those standing.

With a snarl, Brac Ronson rose to his feet and went to grab the Lady. Worse move.

The man, now recognised by Sabra as the Dark Lord moved with snake like speed. Grabbing the back of Ronson's neck, with a spinning move The Dark Lord threw him through a handy window. Outside passer-by’s scattered as Ronson bounced on the sidewalk in a hail of glass and window coverings.

The two Ladies, now absently identified by Sabra as Lady Sydney and Lady Lisa, hurriedly moved forward. “We will take care of him!” Sydney said. The Dark Lord threw a piercing look at her along with a nod. Turning, the two Ladies signaled to the two man, now carrying the swords of the Imperial Guard openly. They all went outside.

The Dark Lord, turned a stone face to the table. “You are uninjured?” Went to Sabra, who stepped towards him. All the clubs customers were staring in shock. Some who didn’t recognise who was involved moved forward to complain but were stopped by others who realised what a bad idea that would be.

“I am, Lord.” Sabra replied, her eyes as big as they were at Lias execution. There was a sharp intake of breath by the spectators who heard Sabras reply. The word was quickly passed.

“And you?” Went to his companion with a look of concern.

“Oh, I am fine.” She surveyed the shattered window with her hands on her hips. “You like to make a scene, don’t you?”

The Dark Lord laughed, his hands back in his pockets. “I will not have such as he laying a hand on any of you.”

“Oh, pfft. It was nothing!” The Lady replied. Sabra and her friends as well as everyone nearby stared at the two, also noting that Lady Sydney and Lady Lisa had returned.

Lady Lisa smiled “He will recover, just a bit cut up but ok. The Guard will take care of everything.”

The Dark Lord looked around, “Thank you Lisa, Sydney, we should go now, but first.” He smiled, looked around and waved the manager over. That worthy, an otherwise self-assured man, came reluctantly.

“I regret that damage has been done to your establishment. But we will see that repairs are completed quickly.”

“Of course My Lord.” The manager was clearly terrified of offending the Dark Lord. The Ladies standing nearby kept their faces composed and spectators remained silent. Looking out the manager saw that the sidewalk was already being swept clean and debris removed while Brac Ronson was being attended to by medics. The now empty window was being measured for temporary repairs. Arriving the next morning, the manager found that repairs were complete, while that evening brought more patrons than normal, anywhere the Dark Lord or the Ladies had been seen was considered special, something that continued for many months and made him happy. The city patrol came by to investigate reports of a disturbance but when informed by the Imperial Guard as to who was involved just went on their way.

“Ms. Boon, we will meet on the morrow, until then.” With that and a nod to the table, the Dark Lord and his companion left. Sabra returned to the table and sat back down with her friends.

Marc Biss eyed Sabra with respect. “All your days at the palace this exciting?” He asked.

There was just a touch of hysteria in the laugh that Sabra voiced and she shook her head. Silence suddenly fell, Lady Sydney had rejoined them while Lady Lisa stood nearby watching, arms akimbo. Sydney’s smile encompassed the group. But her words were directed to Sabra.

“You have a champion now Sabra, a Knight Errant.” There was a quiet laugh from the group even though they didn’t fully understand. They fell silent when Lady Sydney continued. “But do not get too comfortable, such Knights can, shall we say, be difficult.”

With another smile Lady Sydney left, the group all looked at each other.

“That sounded both good and bad.” Reapa commented soberly. “I wouldn’t be late getting to the palace tomorrow.” Then he grinned. “Marc and I should also thank you!”

“Why?” Sabra looked surprised.

“Well, you stopped us making complete fools of ourselves,” Marc looked down at the table, “with two Ladies of the Circle.”

“What!” Exclaimed Si Ra Dom and Le Rakablle together.

“Well, we didn’t know!” Reapa defended himself!

The group dissolved in laughter.