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14

(Historian's Note: Less than three cycles of nan-Raleen before the new embassy personnel arrive from Terra.)

“What is it, Ami'an? Saa'an asked with a yawn when she heard her friend's voice in her head.

“My Honored Grandmother has called a Special House Meeting," Ami'an replied anxiously.

Saa'an sat up fully awake where she had been half asleep on Craig's couch.

“Did she say why?" Saa'an asked with concern. A “Special House Meeting" was an extraordinary event.

“No," Ami'an replied, “though something has shaken her."

Saa'an could sense the tension in Ami'an's sending.

“When is this to happen?"

Ami'an replied back, “It is happening now—we are almost all here. My mother's cousin will be here any moment—she had to turn business over to her Second, and this being a busy time with one of our patrol fleets in port off-schedule."

“A fleet in port, off-schedule? And House Tsel suddenly called to a Special House Meeting? By the Moons, what is going on, Ami'an?"

“I do not know, my friend. Ah, Asa'an has arrived—I will see what she knows."

For once Saa'an did not bristle at the mention of Tsal-Asa'an. Being a veteran spacer, Asa'an always had kept an ear on the talk among starship crews and ship handlers. Most thought she was a somewhat eccentric Mûr Tua'ansa female—only a few outside of her own family knew that she was actually Khea, and despite her often boisterous personality, a quite sensitive Khea to boot. Asa'an had a knack of getting people to open up to her—a skill that had not gone unnoticed by one particular individual. A short while later, Ami'an linked up with Saa'an to let her know what Asa'an had heard.

“My mother's cousin said a cargo handler onboard the command ship, Kha'is-Sar Te'vasha_, told her the Madam Sub-Commander was unexpectedly recalled to Imperial Fleet Headquarters. Asa'an also said she heard the palace was insisting all non-essential personnel to return to their homes until further notice_."

“That is strange, Khy'an left early this evening, and told us all to stay in the embassy until she returns. I saw Lady Pren-Dre'ana meet with Lady Nemi-Mer'ana earlier in the courtyard, though I thought nothing of it at the time. Come to think of it, they did seem concerned over something," Saa'an related.

“There can be no coincidence, my friend—something is in the waters. Ah, the meeting begins—I will speak later," Ami'an sent, and then withdrew contact.

Ami'an's grandmother, Tsel-Vsa'an, the Head of House Tsel, took her seat on the raised dais of the meeting hall. Looking about, and satisfied that all of the members of House Tsel and its off-shoots, House Tsal and House Tsan, were in attendance. She lifted her ornate walking stick into the air and thumped the tip soundly on the floor three times. The hall quickly became silent as over three hundred minds, ranging from infant to aged, focused on what Tsel-Vsa'an had to say.

“Due to the magnitude of what I have received by Imperial Courier, I will get right to the point of this meeting." Tsel-Vsa'an held up the scroll bearing the Imperial Crest for all of the gathered members of House Tsel to see, noticing the shocked expressions on their faces. Carefully unrolling the scroll, the eldest Tsel spoke aloud as she read its contents.

“It is by the Will of Her Majesty, Krel-Mri'ana, Empress of Mûr Zhæn and the Mûr Tua'ansa Star Empire, that all members of House Tsel appear before the full Royal Court, the third night of the eleventh cycle of nan-Raleen at u'the nine. Addressed will be a matter of Special Investigation brought before Her Majesty by the Che'maht Sahn'rah. Judgement has already been decreed and will be carried out before the Full Assembly of the Imperial Council and the Royal Court as soon as both parties involved have heard and understood the findings of the Special Investigation.

“This Summons has been signed, and My Seal has been applied by My Own Hand,

Krel-Mri'ana, Empress

Mûr Tua'ansa Star Empire"

Tsel-Vsa'an carefully rolled up the document, and rested the scroll in her lap. The meeting hall was silent except for the faint sound of the ventilation system.

“A matter of Special Investigation by no less than the Che'maht Sahn'rah itself…I do not need to tell you the seriousness of this," the eldest Tsel said, indicating the scroll as she looked about the hall. “It has only been in recent memory that any from this House has had direct contact with one of the Che'maht Sahn'rah_…is that not so, Ami'an?_"

Ami'an felt the blood drain from her head. She stood and faced the Head of her House.

“That is true, Honored Grandmother," Ami'an replied to the sound of murmers. “You yourself have met Bren-Khy'an, as have many of this House. She is strong and fearless, yes, but she is also fair and compassionate. My sister-friend, Ilen-Saa'an, and I both count Bren-Khy'an as a friend, and Bren-Khy'an also considers us her friends." The murmers were much louder at that statement.

“The Che'maht Sahn'rah do not have friends," one voice in the crowd piped up.

“If you had taken the time to know Bren-Khy'an as I have, Tsel-Ben'ta, you would know much more about her. She has a strong sense of justice—if any among you had committed some wrong or another, Bren-Khy'an would have dealt with it appropriately then and there. If anyone was falsely accused of some wrong doing, Bren-Khy'an would fight for their right to a fair hearing. Whatever this could be about, she has said nothing of it. As I recall, the scroll said 'both parties'…surely that means another house is involved," Ami'an pointed out.

“But who could it be?" Ami'an's mother, Tsel-Una'an asked.

Voices, both spoken and mental began to fill the hall.

“THUMP! THUMP! THUMP!" went Tsel-Vsa'an's walking stick, bringing quiet to the hall.

“We will all find out tomorrow night at u'the Nine. Transports will arrive at eight point five—we must be ready to depart then. Do NOT be late! This meeting is concluded! THUMP!" Tsel-Vsa'an announced, and then she stood up and stepped off the dais.

“But what could this possibly be about, beloved?" Saa'an asked Craig after Ami'an told her about the Special House Meeting.

“I've got no idea, babe," Craig replied with a shrug.

“Has Khy'an mentioned anything to you about this?"

“No, not that she would even be allowed to if she knew anything; and no, my mom and dad wouldn't know anything about it, either. Embassy personnel don't get involved in stuff like this, unless somebody seeks political asylum, or our own citizens need help while on foreign soil. Anyway, I thought the Che'maht Sahn'rah were just the Empress' body guards—I don't understand why they would even be involved, unless there was a threat to her safety," Craig argued.

Saa'an stood there holding her chin in thought, but the way her tail was thrashing from side to side, Craig thought he might have to make a dive for the floor lamp at any moment.

“I'm sure whatever this is about will not be as bad as you think. Nobody in Ami'an's family has done anything that would have to be decided on by the Empress, so who knows what else this could be about. No disrespect, but House Tsel is a low-ranking Third Circle House the same as House Ilen, why would that even concern the Empress?"

A few seconds later, Saa'an's tail suddenly stopped moving.

“They were not always," Saa'an sent, digging into her memories.

Craig, too, was trying to remember something that had surprised him once. Saa'an and Craig suddenly hit upon a possible connection simultaneously.

“nus-Sava'en…" Craig blurted out loud.

“The First Council…" Saa'an added.

“Tsel-Sight Giver…" they both said aloud.

Saa'an and Craig stared at each other in open-mouthed shock as the realization hit them both. Ami'an's ancient ancestor had been on the First Council as an advisor to Mûr Zhæn's first empress, Krel-Ani'ana, the direct ancestor of the current empress. That meant House Tsel was originally…

“Royalty," Saa'an whispered.

Khy'an smiled slightly as the door closed behind her.

An ancient injustice was about to be corrected.

One House was about to be restored to its former glory, while another would be stripped of its unearned status.

Khy'an looked at the time display in the corridor—there would be enough time for her to change and accomplish one other task before she would be required in the Throne Room.

*Bamf!*

Craig and Saa'an rose early the next evening, not long after sunset. They had just sat down to eat when they both heard Khy'an's voice in their heads.

“I will come for you in point five u'the_—be well groomed and dressed. There can be no delay_."

“Khy'an, what's going on?" Craig attempted to ask, but there was no reply.

“Her thoughts are elsewhere, beloved. If we are to find out, we should hurry," Saa'an urged.

The pair quickly ate what they could, squeezed in a quick shower, and dressed in their formal clothes. No sooner than Craig slipped the necklace Ami'an had given him around his neck, Khy'an appeared in her full regalia. Every piece of her armor had been meticulously polished, her cloak was utterly spotless, and her long, black hair tied up in the usual topknot, protruding out of the back of her helmet. Khy'an looked every bit as scary as when Craig first met her, except for the smile on her lips.

“Do exactly what I say, when I say, no questions. I have secured a place for you so that you may witness the proceedings."

“Is this about Ami'an's family?" Craig asked hurriedly for both Saa'an and himself, as they joined Khy'an.

“Yes, now we must go quickly so that I can take my place," Khy'an answered.

Craig and Saa'an joined hands with Khy'an and…*Bamf!*…they found themselves in an unfamiliar empty hallway.

“We are within the palace, just outside the throne room," Khy'an said, looking around quickly.

“The throne room?! Geezers, Khy'an!" Craig whispered as she led her friends to an ornately decorated doorway.

“As I said, do exactly what I say, when I say. You may or may not be called upon to speak. If you are called upon, kneel as you were taught, speak truly, and absolutely do not approach Her Majesty unless she bids it—I do not wish to be the one to end either of you," Khy'an demanded.

“If anyone should have to, I'd rather it be you, Khy'an, not some stranger," Craig sent, causing his guard to glance at him strangely.

“What?! Why?"

“Because if I did something so insanely stupid, then I'd deserve it, and I'd know that you would only do it because of honor, duty, and because you had to. If I had to go, I'd rather yours be the last face I'd see," Craig explained quickly, hoping that Khy'an knew him well enough by now to understand his thinking.

Khy'an looked at Craig one more time before passing through the doorway and sent, “If those words had come from anyone else, I would think that they would intend to curse my name, but from you…," she tenderly touched his cheek for only a moment, letting her eyes say what was in her heart of being. For as long as Craig was on Mûr Zhæn, he could go nowhere without her by his side.

Craig looked in wonder at what he saw. The throne room was nothing like he had ever imagined in his wildest dreams. It looked as if the builders of the Imperial Palace had enclosed a park within its walls. The throne itself was surprisingly simple—a straight backed cushioned chair with what looked to Craig as bolster pillows for armrests, and a back that would be about shoulder height for a middle aged Mûr Tua'ansa female. The throne sat on top of a small grassy mound that was surrounded by water. The walkway leading up to the water in front of the throne was paved with the crystalline stones that glowed in pastel colors Craig had seen elsewhere. A series of hexagonal stepping stones allowed one to cross the water surrounding the throne mound, and there was a place apparently for someone to stand before the few steps that led up to the throne itself. Lighting for the throne room was provided by the same type of bioluminescent globes found nearly everywhere.

“Is it what you expected?" Khy'an asked Craig as she ushered him and Saa'an to where she wanted them to watch the proceedings.

“Not even close," Craig whispered in wide-eyed wonder.

Khy'an gave Craig a quick bemused smile.

“You two will watch from here. Wear these…," Khy'an ordered, pressing a self-fastening security tag to their clothing so that each would be readily seen. “In the event anyone should inquire as to why you are here, refer them to me—and be certain to use my full title, 'Imperial Guard First Grade, Bren-Khy'an, Jankir-Sumíl Regiment, Che'maht Sahn'rah'. I have obtained the proper clearances for you to be here," Khy'an instructed firmly, indicating the spot they were currently standing. “Stay here until I come for you," and with that, Khy'an turned and strode away.

Craig and Saa'an didn't have long to wait before others came and took the places they were instructed to by other members of the Imperial Guard. From their vantage point, Craig and Saa'an saw the members of House Tsel ushered in—even Tsal-Asa'an was there, being quite easy to pick out because of her height and unusual red hair. In front of the rest were Tsel-Vsa-an, the current Head of House Tsel; Tsel-Una'an, Tsel-Vsa'an's First Daughter; and Tsel-Ami'an, Tsel-Una'an's First Daughter. Before Saa'an could contact Ami'an, another group was ushered in. at the head of the second group was a woman wearing the uniform of a high-ranking officer in the Imperial Space Fleet. Craig noticed that the officer wore a simple gold circlet on her head similar in style to the one Lady Nemi-Mer'ana wore. Saa'an had noticed the officer as well.

“Craig, that Fleet Officer—she is a minor noble!" Saa'an sent privately.

“Yeah, I see that. Do you recognize her clan?" Craig asked in return.

“No, but she must be the Sub-Commander General Asa'an mentioned, and the current Head of her House—ah, whatever happens this night will likely be long remembered."

“No doubt, babe. Geezers, Ami'an's grandmother spotted us…!"

Sub-Commander General, Lady Neth-Chu'ana, late of the I.C.S. Kha'is-Sar Te'vasha, the flagship of Imperial Main Fleet Three, was furious over having her fleet suddenly recalled to Mûr Zhæn in the middle of an important training exercise. When she was summoned to Imperial Fleet Command only to find that not only was she immediately relieved of command, but that she and all of House Neth was to appear before the Empress because of a Special Investigation initiated by the Che'maht Sahn'rah, infuriated her further—and made her afraid.

“What could they possibly have that could have cost me my command?!" fumed the Sub-Commander General to herself. “I have done nothing that would warrant such a measure! And to bring my entire House into this as well? No one of House Neth has done anything to bring such shame as to be dragged before the full Royal Court!"

When the Sub-Commander General—with her entire House walking behind her—entered the palace, she was met by one of the Imperial Guard. The guard did not salute the Sub-Commander General, causing her eyes to narrow at the apparent insubordination—until she saw the Imperial Crest of the Che'maht Sahn'rah on the guard's cloak. As representatives of the Empress and under her direct command, the Che'maht Sahn'rah do not salute any outside of their chain of command, except in very special circumstances—and this was not one of those. The guard stood as still as stone, facing the Sub-Commander General with hand on her weapon, face totally devoid of expression. Grudgingly, the Sub-Commander General saluted, causing the guard to simply acknowledge it with a simple nod.

“You and those of your House will follow me and do precisely what I say, when I say. There will be no exception. Any attempt to approach Her Majesty by any means—unless She wills it—will result in the offender's immediate death. Do all understand this?" the guard instructed.

When all members of House Neth old enough to understand nodded their heads in agreement, the guard turned abruptly and led them to their place in the throne room.

After both House Tsel and House Neth were in place, the members of the full Royal Court and the Imperial Council entered the throne room with Lady Pren-Dre'ana in the lead. As the Head Mistress of the Diplomatic Circle, Lady Pren-Dre'ana was the Mûr Tua'ansa Star Empire's equivalent of Secretary of State and speaker of the Royal Court. On the heels of the last of the Royal Court came Madam Commander Genera Anen-Rys'an of Che'maht Sahn'rah, Bren-Khy'an, and the head of the Che'maht Sahn'rah's investigative arm, Investigator General Enla-Yle'an. The three Che'maht Sahn'rah turned away from the Royal Court and came to stand next to Craig and Saa'an.

“These are the two you spoke of, Bren-Khy'an?" asked her superior.

“Yes, Madam Commander General. The off-worlder is Craig Nicolini_, of House_ Nicolini_, his parents are of the Terran Diplomatic Circle. The other is Ilen-Saa'an, of House Ilen. Their pairing has been duly recorded in the Hall of House Records. They were both present, and experienced the events on_ nus-Sava'en and at Mûr thel-Raleen with myself and Tsel-Ami'an. That is her at the front of House Tsel to the right of her Honored Grandmother and Honored Mother."

Both Khy'an's superior and Investigator General Enla-Yle'an gave no indication as to what they might have thought of the pairing of Craig and Saa'an, though they both noticed the necklace around Craig's neck that had been given to him by Ami'an.

“So, you have been Accepted by the Khea—a rare thing among our own kind, and to my knowledge, never before by an off-worlder," Khy'an's superior stated matter-of-factly. “Bren-Khy'an says you are indeed worthy of such an honor. As I have known Bren-Khy'an since she first came to us, I will trust her judgment."

Craig bowed appropriately and sent in Tu'an, “It is an honor I fully appreciate, Madam Commander General Anen-Rys'an. Imperial Guard First Grade Bren-Khy'an has been an excellent mentor—I am doubly honored to have had her guidance during my time on Mûr Zhæn, as well to have her assigned as my personal guard. She is most capable and…determined."

Madam Commander General Anen-Rys'an raised an eyebrow, and then smiled slightly.

“Determined…yes, I grant that." She thought a moment, studying Craig, and then added, “When the time is appropriate, perhaps you should thank Lady Nemi-Mer'ana for arranging to have Bren-Khy'an assigned to you, Craig Nicolini." With that, she turned her attention towards the throne in a clear indication that she was through speaking to him. Craig took the cue and bowed appropriately.

A few seconds later, Saa'an nudged Craig and sent privately to him, “You should think of becoming a diplomat like your Honored Parents, beloved."

Craig looked up with a smile, and held Saa'an's hand.

It was only a short while before two long files of Che'maht Sahn'rah entered the throne room, one on each side of the room, surrounding the gathered members of House Tsel and Hous Neth. On a verbal command, the Che'maht Sahn'rah came to a stop, turning in complete unison to face the members of the two Houses, and then assumed an “at ease, but ready" posture. The throne room became quiet as a smaller group of Che'maht Sahn'rah entered from behind the throne and encircled it. At the barked command to turn and face outward from the throne, they shouted in obeyance, “HA-chir'NA!" and assumed the menacing “on guard" position—weapon in hand, but not activated, feet set with left foot forward, shield arm at the ready. Craig had been invited by Khy'an to watch her practice her fighting skills on an occasion, which left him with a frightening new respect for her abilities—she could easily outmatch the best Ne-char'oo player. Ever.

An aide called out (in the Tu'an language), “Honor to Her Glory and Majesty, the Empress Krel-Mri'ana!"

Except for the Che'maht Sahn'rah, all others in attendance went down on their knees and bowed low to the ground, exposing the backs of their necks. Although Craig was technically an “off-worlder", and would have been allowed to kneel as was acceptable for an alien, he chose to follow the native example because he had the exceptional distinction of being paired with Saa'an. In reverence of the Empress, all non-Che'maht Sahn'rah said aloud, “Hru rhen'sa nahwi Srika'ana" - “We submit to the Will of the Empress." At that moment both the Empress and her First Attendant, Lady Niwa-Ele'ana, came from behind the throne, and ascended the steps. The First Attendant—the second most powerful individual in the Mûr Tua'ansa Star Empire—took up her customary position one step below the Empress and to her right, while the Empress herself took her seat upon the throne. For this occasion, Empress Krel-Mri'ana wore the Robe of Judgment—a somber gray sleeveless robe adorned only with the Royal Crest. With a small wave of her hand, a soft gong sounded to signal all to straighten themselves, though to remain in a kneeling position.

Glancing over her gathered subjects, the Empress' gaze stopped on the one person whose presence was surprising.

“Ele'ana, who is that off-worlder next to Investigator General Enla-Yle'an?"

The First Attendant checked her hand-held data display—at first, she furrowed her brows, but then raised one.

“He is a Terran…"

“A Terran…here? Why?"

“It seems, Majesty, that he is…the First Son of diplomats, and…paired…with one Ilen-Saa'an, of House Ilen, a low Third Circle House associated with House Tsel. If you will recall, Lady Nemi-Mer'ana had requested one of your Che'maht Sahn'rah to be his personal guard during his stay on our world," Lady Niwa-Ele'ana reported.

“One of my guards…ah, I remember, a most unusual request. What was the guard's name again?"

“Imperial Guard, First Grade, Bren-Khy'an, Majesty."

The Empress thought on that a moment.

“No wonder why I have seen so little of Bren-Khy'an this past sun-cycle. I will wish to speak with her after this business, though for now, why is the Terran here for this occasion, Ele'ana?"

“He and this Ilen-Saa'an…along with Bren-Khy'an and one Tsel-Ami'an were on nus-Sava'en_, at the site of The First Council. They all witnessed something unusual, and can attest to the fact that Tsel-Sight Giver—the ancestor of Tsel-Ami'an—was on the First Imperial Council_."

“Leading to the Special Investigation by the Che'maht Sahn'rah_, and why we are here this evening to restore an injustice that should have been caught long ago. Let us be done with this, then_," Empress Krel-Mri'ana ordered.

The aide called out, “Tsel-Vsa'an, Head of House Tsel, and Sub-Commander General Lady Neth-Chu'ana, Head of House Neth, approach and submit to the Will of the Empress!"

The two women made their way to the Place of Submission before the Empress—Tsel-Vsa'an walked with stately grace; the Sub-Commander General with stiff military precision. Ami'an's grandmother deferred to the other Head of House because of her status when crossing the water surrounding the throne mound. They took their places, and went down on their knees, bowing low.

“You may both rise," the Empress stated after an appropriate interval.

Because of certain restrictions enforced when in the presence of the Empress, Tsel-Vsa'an was not allowed her walking stick, and had some difficulty in rising. She was, after all, one hundred and thirty sun-cycles—over six hundred eighty-six in Standard Terran Years, and not a young woman. With a small gesture, the Empress had her young aide help Tsel-Vsa'an to her feet, who gratefully accepted the assistance.

“After many, many long nights stretching far into our past, an ancient injustice was done. Why it had not been caught and corrected in all this time is an outrage." The Empress cast a stern look upon the members of the Royal Court; her voice, icy. “If it were not for the sense of honor, justice, and due diligence of a member of the Che'maht Sahn'rah, this injustice may well have continued unnoticed, continuing to heap insult upon injury. Once it was brought out of the shadows where it lay hidden, it has been rectified swiftly."

The Empress nodded to her aide who called out, “Investigator General Enla-Yle'an, approach and submit to the Will of the Empress!"

Enla-Yle'an snapped to attention and took her place just to the left of the steps leading up to the throne.

“You may relate your findings to The Summoned," Empress Krel-Mri'ana commanded.

“As is Willed, Your Majesty," Investigator General Enla-Yle'an acknowledged with a salute.

Clearing her throat, Enla-Yle'an spoke in a deep, husky voice.

“Tsel-Sight Giver of the Khea served with honor and distinction on the First Imperial Council under Empress Krel- Ani'ana, over one hundred nineteen thousand sun-cycles ago. Since then, her line had also served with honor and distinction until the Machine War, when House Tsel was one of the Great Houses that fell victim to a plot instigated by a minor noble, one Lady Neth-Tur'ana, who sought to discredit all those who argued against the destruction of the good machine entities that sided with our people, and helped to defeat the defective machine entities who had turned against us. All those who worked towards destroying the good machine entities did no less than to end innocents, though for our purpose here this night is to restore that which was unduly taken. Sub-Commander General Lady Neth-Chu'ana, it was your ancestor, Lady Neth-Tur'ana, who plotted, conspired, and sought to bring down House Tsel because of misguided beliefs and vindictive anger. There is also proof of greed and corruption between your ancestor and certain other factions—they will also be dealt with soon. House Tsel committed no acts of wrong doing to ever warrant its removal from the Imperial Council or its demotion in status to the Third Circle. Imperial Law states there is no time limit on crimes of this nature. Although you yourself did not commit this wrong, your House must bear the price."

Enla-Yle'an, finished with her report, saluted the Empress and stepped back.

Empress Krel-Mri'ana leaned forward on her throne and fixed her narrowed eyes on the Head of House Neth.

“It is the Imperial Judgment that House Neth is hereby demoted to the low strata of the Third Circle for an equal amount of time as has been spent there by House Tsel." There were gasps of shock among the members of House Neth. “Furthermore, since no person of such a low-ranking House may be of nobility, you are hereby stripped of your title and your clan holdings forfeited. You will report to Imperial Fleet Command at the conclusion of these proceedings for re-assessment as they see fit. Any attempt by you, members of your House, or those in any way associated with same, to inflict harassment or harm on any member of House Tsel or those associated with them, will be dealt with immediately and harshly. The Che'maht Sahn'rah will be watching you until instructed otherwise by myself or by my successors. You have one cycle of nan-Raleen to find lodging appropriate to a House of your new status and relocate into it." Straightening herself, Empress Krel-Mri'ana said firmly, “Madam Commander General Anen-Rys'an, see to it that Sub-Commander Neth and her House complies immediately."

The commanding officer of the Che'maht Sahn'rah came to attention, saluted crisply, and silently sent a pre-arranged order. Instantly, half of the Che'maht Sahn'rah surrounding the two Houses came to attention, and then with clockwork precision, surrounded all of House Neth. Investigator General Enla-Yle'an stepped in front of the now simple Neth-Chu'an, one hand on the hilt of her weapon, the other held out to receive the gold circlet still on Neth-Chu'an's head. With a heavy heart, Neth-Chu'an slowly removed the circlet, looked at it in her hands, and then handed it to the Investigator General. The pain of losing nearly everything was evident in her eyes. Enla-Yle'an, while empathizing on one hand the blow suffered, knew that on the other hand justice—terribly long overdue—had finally been served. If Lady Neth-Tur'ana had not succumbed to foolishness so far in the past, none of this would ne necessary. She took the circlet with a curt nod of the head and stepped back to her former position.

“You and your House are dismissed, Neth Chu'an," the Empress commanded.

Neth-Chu'an bowed deeply saying, “As is Willed, Your Majesty," and then withdrew to where the members of her House were still kneeling.

Craig and Saa'an watched as the Che'maht Sahn'rah marched House Neth out of the throne room.

“Geezers, I bet that sucked for those folks," Craig commented privately to Saa'an.

“No less than it did for Ami'an's family, I would imagine," she sent in return.

“Yeah, I suppose so. Hey, if House Tsel gets elevated back to its former status, what's that going to do to you and Ami'an?"

“I…do not know, beloved. I hope nothing."

“Me, too, babe…me, too."

“Madam Tsel-Vsa'an of House Tsel…the position on the Imperial Council once held by your ancestor, Lady Tsel-Kes'ana, has never been filled since the unfortunate incident that removed her from it; it has been vacant for far too long." The Empress stood and descended the three stairs in front of her throne towards Ami'an's grandmother, causing her to kneel and bow low once again. Turning to her First Attendant, the Empress took an antique circlet made of highly polished silver that had a two-centimeter star sapphire set into the front. “It is my great pleasure to restore this to its rightful owner. Rise, Madam Tsel, from this point forward you shall be known throughout the Empire as Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana, and successor of the late Lady Tsel-Kes'ana to the Imperial Council. House Tsel, of the ancient Khea line of Tsel-Sight Giver, is restored to its rightful place among the upper First Circle Houses, effective immediately. Your proper ancestral apartments, holdings, and lands are ready for you to return to them. Since so much time has passed, you will all be brought up to date on current matters as you readjust to your Restored Status."

Ami'an's grandmother accepted the circlet placed upon her head by the Empress' own hands, with as much grace and stoicism she could muster, though she could not hold back the tear that escaped and ran down her cheek. The Empress smiled softly and held her hands out with palms up, and the now Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana placed her hands palms down on hers.

“I welcome you, Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana, to your rightful place upon the Imperial Council and within the palace. I look forward to meeting with you once you are ready to begin."

“I…and my Honored Grandmothers before me…thank you, Majesty," Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana said humbly in return.

The Empress smiled and nodded her head.

“You may return to your House, no doubt you will wish to celebrate this happy occasion. I will have an aide assigned to you to assist with whatever you need. One night soon we shall have a private meal together, along with my First Attendant."

Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana bowed deeply, and waited until the Empress returned to her throne, before she straightened and went back to her collected family.

With a gesture from the Empress, the aide announced, “These proceedings are concluded, and the Royal Court may adjourn. Honor and Glory to Her Majesty, Krel-Mri'ana, Empress of the Mûr Tua'ansa Star Empire!"

All non-Che'maht Sahn'rah bowed low and gave the traditional reverent response. As the throne room was clearing, the Empress waited a bit on the path that went around behind her throne. Privately she sent, “Bren-Khy'an—you and your three…'friends'…attend me in my chambers." She made it clear that she meant Craig, Saa'an, and Ami'an were to accompany her.

Bren-Khy'an, a little surprised by the command, sent in reply, “As you Will, Majesty."

“Aw, geezers, Khy'an—I've never met a Head of State before! Ya gotta tell me what to do—and what not to do! I don't wanna do anything stupid!" Craig exclaimed nervously, knowing full well what would happen if he did the unthinkable.

Bren-Khy'an put a hand on Craig's shoulder as they walked down the hallways and said, “You are my responsibility, Craig—I must protect you, even if it is from yourself."

Craig looked up and saw the slight smile on Khy'an's face, though he knew she meant what she said.

“Why does Her Majesty wish to see us_?_" Saa'an asked with concern.

“She did not say, Saa'an, only that she wills it. We will know her Majesty's wishes soon enough—we are nearly there," Khy'an replied as they walked down halls familiar to Khy'an.

When Khy'an and the others arrived at the door to the Empress' private chambers, the two guards stationed in the hallway recognized Bren-Khy'an immediately and opened the door. With a curt nod, Bren-Khy'an led her friends into the outer office where they met the junior aide.

“Imperial Guard First Grade Bren-Khy'an of the Che'maht Sahn'rah, and…?" the aide asked, glancing at the other three, expecting their names.

Bren-Khy'an replied, “Craig Nicolini, of House Nicolini_, First Son of_ Terran diplomats William and Cassandra Nicolini_, and pair bonded to Ilen-Saa'an, Fourth Daughter of Ilen-Jaa'an, of House Ilen; and Tsel-Ami'ana, First Daughter of Tsel-Usa'ana, First Daughter of Lady Tsel-Vsa'ana of House Tsel_."

It was the first realization of Ami'an's new status by herself, Craig and Saa'an.

The aide slightly raised an eyebrow at the mention of Saa'an being paired with the off-worlder.

“You may wait for Her Majesty in her sitting room; she will join you shortly," the aide instructed.

Bren-Khy'an nodded once and motioned for the others to follow. When they entered the room, she instructed the others when and where to sit and what to do when the Empress entered.

“Unless Her Majesty says otherwise when she enters, you will kneel as you did in the throne room. You will be respectful at all times and do not interrupt her if she is speaking. If she asks you a question, you will answer honestly and do not be long-winded. And absolutely do not approach or reach for Her Majesty unless she desires you to do so. I will not be the only member of the Che'maht Sahn'rah present." Bren-Khy'an let the implication of that last sink in.

They did not have long to wait before a door other than the one they came in through opened and two Che'maht Sahn'rah guards walked in and immediately took up positions on either side of the door, with a hand on the hilts of their weapons. Behind them entered Empress Krel-Mri'ana, having changed from her ceremonial robes to her usual working attire. Bren-Khy'an promptly saluted the Empress when she entered, while Craig, Saa'an, and Ami'an knelt in the proper submissive position.

“You may rise," the Empress spoke aloud shortly after taking her seat.

The Empress indicated for her guests to be seated—when Khy'an remained standing in the “at ease" position, the Empress added, “You as well, Bren-Khy'an." Khy'an snapped to attention and saluted, and then took a seat next to Craig. It was an odd feeling for Khy'an to be seated in the Empress' company after spending so much time in the role of the other guards who were present.

A servant entered carrying a tray with a teapot and five cups. The servant sat the tray down on a small table and poured, handing the first cup to the Empress, the second to Ami'an, the third to Khy'an, the fourth to Saa'an, and finally the last to Craig. Craig did not feel the least bit slighted, given his unique understanding of Mûr Tua'ansa customs. He hoped that by wearing appropriate clothing in the Mûr Tua'ansa style for an adult male—tailored, of course, to fit him properly—that reflected his family's status on Mûr Zhæn, would be a good show of his understanding and acceptance of Mûr Tua'ansa culture.

The Empress watched her guests carefully as they took the customary first few sips of tea in silence before the discussion began. Bren-Khy'an was a known, though the Empress sensed something different about her—perhaps it was only because she had been away for a time. Of the Empress' other two subjects, she knew only the basic information on them. The Khea female, of course would one day assume her grandmother's position, and so far, the extensive background investigation had so far turned up nothing unusual. The Mûr Tua'ansa female had led a completely normal life, at least until she had met the Terran male. The Empress had only directly met the two individuals from the black scout ship, Nightwing, along with the Sol Federation diplomatic attaché. This Terran male was quite different from the commanding officer of Nightwing—younger, certainly, and less sure of himself, yet by the accounting of him given by Lady Nemi-Mer'ana, this Craig Nicolini had proved to be a quite interesting individual.

“So, these are the three that, due to your association with them, led you to uncover the ancient plot against House Tsel, and your efforts to see that House restored to its rightful place," the Empress began, speaking aloud in Terran Standard English, much to the surprise of all but Bren-Khy'an.

“Yes, Your Majesty," Khy'an acknowledged, also in Terran Standard English.

“You are not the only person of your homeworld that I have met, Mister Nicolini, in case you are wondering how I know your language. I have learned that you have become rather well acquainted with our culture, and even proficient in our language. Indeed, you have even become pair bonded with one of my own subjects, yes?"

“Yes, Your Majesty," Craig, replied in near perfect Tu'an, taking ahold of Saa'an's hand. The color of her eyes lightened a shade in embarrassment by the display of hri'fal in front of the Empress.

Empress Krel-Mri'ana smiled slightly at the young couple—as different as they were from one another, it seemed that the love between then was true.

“Tell me how the four of you came to know one another, and what led you to discover that House Tsel was once part of the Imperial Council," the Empress asked, her curiosity piqued.

“It will be a somewhat lengthy story, Your Majesty," Bren-Khy'an cautioned.

The Empress settled back into her chair, took another sip of her tea, and said, “I have some time before my next meeting."

“As you Will, Your Majesty," Bren-Khy'an acknowledged, and began the tale with receiving her temporary assignment to be Craig's bodyguard, keeping to the pertinent parts.

The Empress had been to the site of the First Council, as had every empress, just prior to adulthood and accepting the crown, so when Bren-Khy'an got to the part of the story concerning their experience on nus-Sava'en, the Empress paid particular attention.

“It is most unusual for one of the Che'maht Sahn'rah to be a friend of, or to, anyone," the Empress commented. “That the four of you experienced what you did is remarkable, and it explains much, especially concerning you, Bren-Khy'an. I see now why you seem different, if you have had such experiences since your temporary assignment." Empress Krel-Mri'ana looked thoughtfully at her four guests while she sipped her tea. “Bren-Khy'an, you may maintain the friendships you have forged with these three. Tsel-Ami'ana, you may also maintain yours with my guard, Mister Nicolini, and with your long-time friend Ilen-Saa'an. This is unusual, given your respective statuses; however, it seems to be wisest to let these vines grow as the All-Mother wills, for surely She has a reason for them to grow together." The Empress paused for a moment and then added, “You may go."

Bren-Khy'an stood and saluted, and Craig, Saa'an, and Ami'an knelt appropriately, before departing.

None of the four said anything until they were away from the Empress' private chambers.

“Geezers, could she really have made it so that we couldn't be…?" Craig asked, not quite wanting to hear the answer.

“Yes," Khy'an sent flatly as she led the group towards the entrance of the palace. “You should know by now that each Circle of our society stays within its own limits. When you sent the invitation to Saa'an to dine with you in the Terran Embassy, that was quite a disturbance in the way of things. Your offer of queth sliat to me on nus-Sava'en_, as well as your friendship, was beyond thinking of our people, yet…I appreciate the bonds that have grown between us, more than I can say_."

The four closed into a small circle and put their hands on each other's shoulders, lifting Craig by their thoughts so that he could more easily do so.

“Friends forever," Saa'an stated, looking at each in turn.

Ami'an nodded her head once, as did Khy'an. When they all looked at Craig, he said, “We're more than that…we're family."

* * * * *

“So, what of this concerning my guard?" Empress Krel-Mri'ana asked shortly after her guests had left.

Lady Nemi-Mer'ana stepped into the room's light from where she had been watching.

“I had given her instructions to teach the Terran male our ways, as well as to learn theirs; I believe Bren-Khy'an has excelled at both."

“Even as it has caused one of my most trusted guards to change, despite her conditioning," the Empress stated.

“This change in Bren-Khy'an…it is due to more than just her experience on nus-Sava'en_. She has also been to_ nir-Tha'es and Mûr thel-Raleen with the Terran, as well as the Temple of Hfa-Raleen."

The Empress raised an eyebrow at that bit of information.

“The sensors around the waters of nir-Tha'es indicated an extraordinary energy discharge of the type emitted by a Che'maht Sahn'rah's weapon—it should not have been possible. Only one such weapon is capable of that level," Lady Nemi-Mer'ana said, handing a small handheld display to the Empress.

“It is still where it has been since the time of Aana-Ael'an?"

“Yes, Majesty, it has not been wielded since then. However, perhaps Bren-Khy'an may be the one to wield it again."

The Blade of Mûr Tua'ansa, created by Bren-Fire Maker, Bren-Khy'an's ancient ancestor, wielded by Aana-Ael'an in the battle against the an'im-Raleen so many hundreds of thousands of sun-cycles ago. The thought of that legendary weapon possibly being wielded again, and by one of her own guards, sent a shiver through the Empress' body.

“Perhaps the night is coming when we may finally be rid of the an'im-Raleen_, once and for all_."

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(On to Chapter 15: https://www.sofurry.com/view/1196898)