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Dr. Kaydex took out his scanner and started to pass it over my stomach, the device just barely hovering above my skin. A holographic display appeared over the scanner, revealing a 3D map of the inside of my, well, insides. A smile appeared on the doctors face as he moved the scanner and found what he was looking for. A small lump that looked like a bean.

“Thar she blows,” the tiger said with a very fake and wince inducing pirate imitation. “Hmm, its progressing quickly, but we knew it would be either or. It was a 50/50 chance anyway.” he said as he leaned closely over me. His heavy sagging stomach pushed up against me, and I could see movement under his thick fur. I kinda wanted to just grab that pregnant belly and stroke it. Master though was to distracted staring at the 3D image to pay attention to me.

“And just what am I looking at?” said lion asked as he peered at the display, his heavy paw on my shoulder giving me affectionate squeezes.

“That, my emperor, is your kitten. Congratulations,” Kaydex said with a smile. “Guess a night of hot angry drunk sex was bound to do it.” he said with a rather proud smile.

“How did you....” both me and my Master said at the same time, which made the doctor chuckle.

“Oh please, you two were barely down the hall before you started on each other. You really had no idea the attendants were openly staring at you both as you fumbled along?” he said with a smug look on his face. “Anyway, judging by the size, I'd guess you were about.....perhaps just over a month in terms of progress. That is concerningly fast for what, just under twelve hours since conception?”

“It's not bad, is it?” Leniad asked as Kaydex turned off the scanner, the room growing slightly darker without the hologram lighting it up. The tigers huge stomach openly sagged through his open medical coat now that the bed wasn't holding it up as he waddled over to the counter behind him.

“Well, its a bit of both actually,” the tiger said as he sorted through the assortment of instruments at his disposal. “If left alone like this, David could very well have the child by the end of the week, perhaps even sooner. However, since it will develop so quickly, it'll be basically leeching off of him and drain him of nutrients and vitamins and just about everything else. He'll be emaciated to the point he'll look like a recovering addict. He most likely, won't survive the birthing by that point.”

“So what's the good part in this?” Leniad asked as he crossed his arms over his naked chest. Kaydex picked up a very large looking injector that was filled with an assortment of colours. I felt squeamish eyeing it.

“We caught it early,” he said with a smile as he held my arm and gently pressed the injector to my flesh. I winced at the penetration feeling whatever it was tingle through my veins. “This should slow it down. It won't be a normal rate, but you should expect to give birth in about four to five months, give or take. Already a month ahead, plus there are variables that we need to consider for him.”

“And just what are those variables?” I asked, raising my voice a bit. I was slightly annoyed. Either on the fact that they were both talking above me and about me, or that Kaydexs big fluffy and moving stomach was out of my reach. I wasn't sure.

“Well, diet and exercise for one. Stress and hormones for another, etc etc,” Kaydex said with a dismissive wave of his hand. “You should only eat what you can handle, no eating for two state of mind. No alcohol, or smoking, or recreational drugs, and no excessive exercise or physical labour. Also no bending him into a pretzel under the sheets.” he said to my master, which made the big lion blush cutely and fold his ears, I think in both embarrassment and disappointment. “Now, I do have to give this little speech, for the record and whatnot.” Kaydex said as he slid his finger in the air and pulled up a holographic display.

“As you are now pregnant, you are now forbidden to leave the immediate area of your master or handlers as per slavery laws,” he said in a bored monotone of voice , as if he had done this a hundred times. “Also while you are still required to wear your collar, leash laws are hereby suspended under medical regulations. The tracker function in your chip will be activated and stay activated. If you are on the bridge you are to be in a chair with a safety harness on, including but not limited to when we are warping, or travelling beyond cruising speed. If there is danger, you are to wear a combat shield no matter the danger level.”

“And finally, you are to report to me once a week from now until birth, and call me at any time regardless of what symptoms, sickness or any ill effects you might end up experiencing excluding morning sickness.” he finished as he made the display disappear with a 'fwip'. “Any questions?” he asked.

“No doctor.” we both said as my master took my hand in his and helped me to sit up. The tiger nodded as he took a seat in his chair with a sigh as he sat back, rubbing his huge stomach as his robe fell open.

“Emperor Leniad Leo, this is the bridge tower station,” a voice suddenly said in a bored tone of voice over the nearby communications system. “You are required on the bridge at your immediate convenience. Please contact the bridge as soon as possible” the voice concluded with a dull 'DING' noise that sounded like a 'BOOP'. My master held up his communicator and pressed a few buttons and made a holographic window appear.

“This is Emperor Leniad Leo, contacting the bridge. What is the concern?” he asked. A male humans face appeared in the window. I wasn't paying too much attention, as I was staring at Kaydex's stomach, and the movements under his fur which he was trying to still with slow rubs.

“We are about to arrive at our destination sir. The new engine designs improved the jump stream for the ship, and for the fleet following us” the male said. “It appears the field the Sovereign gives off resonated with the other ships own drives, boosting their efficiency. I have prepared a full report for you to look at, but in essence, we're almost there already” he said.

“I see. Forward that report to me, I'll look at it when I have the chance,” Leniad said with a smile. “Also, contact engineering. I need an S12 chair ready and installed on the bridge immediately. We will be there shortly” he said as he cut the communications.

“Ok, we need to go David,” he said to me before turning to the tiger. “Dr Kaydex, I'll be expecting you at the formal dinner tonight that Lord and Lady Kamale will be hosting for us. You'll be happy to perform your assigned task?” he asked.

“Of course. I wouldn't want to pass up the opportunity to watch those two try and act friendly and kiss your butt after the trouble their daughter caused,” the tiger said with a grin. “Now off you go. I'm sure you have much to prepare for.” Kaydex said with a smile.

Master walked beside me as we made our way through the halls. I stayed silent as he kept his arm around my shoulders. I had my hand on my stomach, barely able to feel anything out of the ordinary with it. My mind was racing with questions. Was I going to get huge? What was the child going to look like? Was it going to Hurt? The hell was happening to me? We had reached the lift when I finally opened my mouth.

“Master, may I ask a question?” I asked as the doors opened.

“You just did,” Master said with a humorous smile. The dad style humour would have sounded cheesy coming from anyone else. Coming from him, it made him a little more adorable. “What is on your mind little one?” he asked as he stepped into the lift with me.

“Back with the doctor, what did you mean by 'assigned task'?” I asked as the doors closed.

“Oh that? Well, Dr Kaydex is my personal doctor,” he said as the lift hummed as it moved. “Yours as well from now on. His assigned task is to scan all the food and drink at functions from now on, discretely of course, to check for anything harmful or deadly. I am not taking any chances with you, or our child.” he said as he put his hand on my stomach. The way he said 'our child' with such fondness in his voice, it made me want to cry happy tears.

We didn't get much time for that bonding moment before the lift stopped and the doors opened. And we both jumped from the sudden and loud round of applause as everyone on the bridge stood up and clapped, hollered and hooted.

Leniad just chuckled and held onto me as he walked through the throng of people to the command console and his chair, which now had a second one beside it. This one looked like an old style arm chair, nice and deep and cushy, but with an assortment of straps that reminded me of a carnival roller coaster. It was obviously mine.

“Alright, alright. Settle down” Leniad said with a smile as he waved his hands in the air as the applause died down. “Clearly, you have put two and two together, and I do appreciate and welcome your enthusiastic applause. However, I do have to warn all of you, that I want to make the announcement properly at a future date. So, I do not want this information going beyond this room. No-one is to know, not even my brother. Do not forget that both of us have faced an assassination attempt.” he reminded everyone on the bridge. I could see how seriously they were all taking this.

“So, if word gets out, every person on this bridge will receive forty lashes, and the one responsible executed for treason,” he said firmly. “That is a direct order. Do I make myself clear?” he demanded.

“YES EMPEROR” every person on the bridge shouted in unison and they all saluted with their backs straight and all eyes on him. Leniad nodded with a smile.

“Excellent. Now, as you were.” he said as he helped to seat me into my new seat. I was surprised by how far I sank into the chair and how plush it was, then figured it was probably to cushion me against anything. The straps were tight, but nothing I realized I'd be unable to handle. Master made sure I was strapped in tight before he sat at his seat.

“Tower, contact the other ships in the fleet. We will drop out as planned, The capital ships will approach in formation into a high orbit. The rest are to remain undetected outside the system. Con, be ready to avoid the rings when we drop out, navigation systems could be affected by their gravitational pulls. Science station one and two, as soon as we drop out, I want a full analysis of all ship drives and structural integrity. Captain, you have it from here” Leniad said as he sat back in his chair.

“Thank you, your grace” the captain said promptly as he stepped forward. “Captain to all decks, brace for return to normal space. Jump drive will disengage in five, four, three, two one...now.” I knew the ship would rock as usual after returning to sub light speeds, but I barely felt it in my small cushioned fort.

Through the huge screens in front of us, a planet came into view. Our destination, the planet Thar. Huge brilliant rings surrounded the planet, reminding me of an old picture of Saturn I had once seen, a planet from the now long abandoned Sol system, only there were a dozen of them. They were artificially coloured in brilliant hues of blue and gold. Apparently, Lord Kamale had thought they were too dull. I was in compete awe as we drew closer, seeing the huge rings loom overhead like a giant beast.

“Your grace,” the tower operator shouted, jolting me slightly. “We have just received immediate word that the Maasai Mara class station, Serangeti will be arriving in orbit momentarily.” Leniad quickly stood up and slammed his hands onto the console in front of him.

“WHAT?” He shouted. “What are they doing here?” he demanded, an angry look on his face.

“They must have heard about the attack and decided to come find us?” Captain Markeus suggested stepping closer.

“And bring the station with them?” Leniad said in annoyance. “They could also have heard about the Algeron from the Eldon Theocracy,” he theorized irritably. “Tower, the moment they arrive, contact Admiral Blois. Tell him to report to me at once with an explanation.” he ordered.

“Yes your grace” the tower communicator said as she turned to her screen.

“Well David, you are about to see one of the Empires crowned technological marvels.” Master said as he said back into his seat, rubbing the side of his head.

“Bring up the co-ordinates on screen” Captain Markeus said. I looked up at the screen and saw nothing but blank space for a few moments, before several blips appeared on screen that quickly turned into eight small ships. They flew in an arrowhead formation. Then there was a huge flash of light that almost filled the whole screen before the space between them was filled with something else.

“The Serangeti Space station, the largest moving ship in the galaxy,” Master said to me. “Three kilometers in length, one kilometer in width and two point five in height. It has the largest jump drive ever constructed, and carries its own personal attack fleet. It's a floating fortress with its own built in arsenal, adaptive defense shields and even terraforming equipment.”

I was in awe. It looked like a giant, upside down pyramid shaped prism with at least eight sides. The top was a dome construct with built in towers. It was white, with gold trim making it look like it was a painted maze on the outside. I could see ships emerging and flying around it, like it was a giant hive of bees.

“Your grace, we have contact with Admiral Blois. Opening Communication channel.” the lioness tower operator reported. A holographic screen appeared before us, visible from both sides as it came into vision. On screen was a dark brown male lion, dressed in a military uniform. He looked older then my master, with graying hair in his mane and a thick beard tinged salt and pepper. He had a very large amount of medals on his person, at least I thought they were medals. They looked like symbols carved out of silver and precious gems.

Already I didn't like him, a dislike that grew when he opened his mouth.

“Ah, my Emperor”the lion said with a smug sound to his voice. “I see that you are well. We heard about the attack and moved our forces to come meet you here at once. It seems we can't let you go off on your own without trouble finding you as usual.” he said, with a surprising amount of cockiness to him.

“Admiral Blois,” Leniad said as he stood up and crossed his arms over his chest. “Although I am thankful for your immediate presence, it was not necessary to-”

“The Serangetis security forces are here to defend you, and to detain you,” Bois said, his interruption causing multiple quiet gasps from the bridge. “We have heard about the attack on your life, and we decided to take steps to secure your safety. It is far to dangerous for you to be out there on your own, considering the embarrassing mess you have found yourselves in. You will be much safer under our guard.”

Blois' eyes briefly looked over at me, and I swore they narrowed. I wasn't sure if they did, but then he turned his attention back to my master.

“Blois, I understand your concern-”

“I will contact the other ships in your fleet and have them dock securely and have them under guard. All your personnel will be cross examined to determine their actions and detained until further notice,” Blois said smugly. His tone of voice had changed, as if he was talking to a misbehaving child. “Perhaps this will teach you a future lesson that you shouldn't go off half cocked against the advice of your betters. Once you have been docked, you will be detained until I am ready to see and debrief you.”

“Blois, you do not have the authority to detain me or anyone under me!” Leniad said as he bared his teeth.

“I will force you, if you insist on acting like a child. You and that brother of yours, all the trouble you've caused. Your father would be ashamed.” Blois said before the link was suddenly cut. The room suddenly became quiet as everyone was trying hard not to breath or make a sound. Even I found I was holding my breath.

What the hell had just happened?

“Your grace?” Captain Markeus asked quietly, the dragon treading the waters carefully as he looked at his emperor. “What are your orders?” he asked. Leniad softly growled as he unfolded his arms and cleared his throat while everyone waited with baited breath.

“Sir” one of the staff suddenly shouted as alarms suddenly began to go off on all the consoles around us. “Our systems are being hacked.” Suddenly everyone began speaking at once as they all checked their consoles.

“Signals are coming from the station.”

“The docking bay has been locked down.”

“All guest areas have been locked down, royal suites are barred.”

“Fleet ships are surrounding us in formation.”

“The signals being amplified through the fleet. They're attempting full control over everything.”

“Fleet ships are attempting to dock. Docking bay controls are compromised.”

The ship tilted slightly, not enough to make anyone fall over, but it made the ship groan, almost as if it was in pain, and several lights flickered overhead. Warning lights were appearing everywhere and the communication screens were flickering with ''access denied'' appearing over them.

Blois had said he'd take control by force.

Master then put his hand on the console before him and the screen glowed, scanning his hand. A holographic screen appeared before him and began to scan both his face and his eyes.

“Emperor Leniad Leo, authorization code zero zero zero three nine four six priority sierra hotel indigo echo hotel delta. Immediate reset of all systems and lock out!” he ordered once the scan was done.

The alarms slowly began to die down as all the consoles returned to normal. A chorus of people stating that connections had been restored echoed around us, either completing restoration or restoration being achieved. It seemed like in one move, my master had retaken the ship. Easily.

“Tower, contact the fleet” Leniad shouted over everyone. “Inform them that the only orders they are to follow are to come direct from me!”

“Tactical station one, find me Joka and my security team immediately, have them meet me outside my quarters, tell them to wear garb one. This is a type SS alert.”

“Con, standard docking procedure into the designated Sovereign bay, have them accept no other location for our docking, this ship was designed to fit that spot so we will use it.”

“Science stations, do not open the computer docking ports for docking, keep them closed. Lie if you need to, tell them they are broken or something I don't care. No-one is allowed on this ship.”

“Also lock down all access to the main computer and operating systems without my authorization once we dock, Omega level lockouts.”

“Tactical station two, contact the fighters from the station, they are NOT to approach this ship or they WILL be fired upon, orders from their Emperor, charge the guns as a warning if you must! They will get one warning shot, and one only.”

“Captain, Arm all senior officers and seal the bridge till I give you my personal authentication code. All non essential personnel are to return to their quarters and lock the doors until further notice. No-one is allowed in the halls except security till further notice” he ordered.

“YES SIR” everyone responded on the bridge quickly as they went about trying to retake their own ship. Leniad nodded as he rubbed the side of his head again.

“You have the bridge Captain,” he said to Markeus before he quickly undid the straps around my body and helped me to his feet. “David, with me” he said firmly. I didn't question him as he walked with me to the lift. “Royal Floor One, no stops!” he ordered the lift once the doors had closed.

“Master? Are you ok?” I asked and although i was starting to see the rough and snarly side of him a turn on, i was beginning to see where it tapered into scary.

"No" he said to me simply, his anger abating slightly in his attempt to show he wasn't angry at me "Blois served his whole life under my father and once I took the crown, he never stopped seeing me as nothing more then a boy who was out of his depth." he stared at the elevator doors in front of us like it would make the lift go faster as he spoke.

"He always acted like he knew better, was constantly undermining my orders and acting like he couldn't be wrong no matter what. He always used his age and experience as a reason to belittle me." he added with a growl following it.

"Why?" I asked him curious.

"Because he always thought he knew better then my father and now he thinks he knows better then me. Well, I have finally had it with him," he said face turning into another scowl, not a look I ever wanted directed at me "He not only belittles me in front of my entire crew, including you but he also tries to forcibly override my ship and put me on house arrest for the hell of it. well, I'm not putting up with this anymore!" he finished as the doors dinged open and he stormed off heading direct to our quarters.

Once we were inside, Master began to change quickly. Normally, someone was there to help him, but this time he dressed himself. For battle, or intimidation, or both. He wore his usual tight one-piece body suit as well as cuffs that covered most of his feet leaving only his toes and his pads on the underside exposed. The jacket he wore atop it was tight and open, at the bottom it was cut so it angled upwards towards his back but left two distinct points aimed to the floor at the front and had a high collar to frame his neck and head.

He had a gold aiguillette over his right shoulder and a large bejeweled broach on his left breast with the royal seal in it. His crown was replaced with a larger more ornate one and finally he hung a sword from his left hip connected to his loincloth strap. Even the loincloth was ordained with the royal seal. He seemed to be wanting to show just who he was for the world to see and everything was white with gold trim around the edges.

I was put in something similar, however I still had my collar around my neck and my belly was exposed. I didn't posses a sword or decorations however I did have a personal defense shield device attached to my hip where he had his sword. We were just finishing up when there was a knock at the door.

“Who is it?” Leniad called as he forced a holographic screen to appear to show who was at the door. There in the hall stood Joka, Melania, Dresdil, Sparks, Deb, Donna and Saber. They were all dressed in military dress uniform, and carrying a side arm and sword. Yep, they were dressed for business as well.

“Your eminence, we are here as ordered” Jokas voice came through as the group saluted towards the door. Leniad nodded as he opened the doors.

“You are all to come with me. We are heading to the primary air lock and boarding the Serangati” he said. “You all know your jobs. Your primary concerns are for myself and David. No-one is to approach closer then five meters. If they do, stun then. No warnings. I do not have time for games today.” Master said as the group quickly surrounded us as we walked. Four surrounding me, and three around my master.

The wait at the airlock was rather tense as we waited for the ship to finish its docking procedures. I felt nervous, and held my stomach with both hands. There was a jolting shake and a groaning from the ship as the lights around the door went green and the door slid open with a hissing noise.

Master barely waited for the doors to finish opening before he was moving on ahead. We almost had to jog to keep up with him. The problems with him being so damn big I guess. We marched through the halls, which I didn't take time to look around on. But I could see from what I saw, the station was better build for comfort and grandeur above most things.

The sight of the emperor and his military detail marching through the hallway caused every singe person to stand back and salute, or cower somewhat in fear. Thankfully no-one tried to get closer, not with all those weapons in the way. Another very tense lift ride later, and we were at the bridge of the station.

“EMPEROR ON DECK!” came the now familiar standard cry as the door opened and we all stepped out. Everyone on the much bigger and more expansive bridge than I was now used to quickly stood and saluted. However, sitting in the main seat at the bridge was Admiral Blois, who barely regarded us as he took his time in not getting up. Leniad marched us all up to the main console and stood just a few feet from Blois, who looked utterly unconcerned.

“Ah, Emperor,” he welcomed with a barely noticeable nod of his head and a very fake smile on his face. “I see you have decided to grace us with your presence. I see you've decided to not allow us to take control of the situation. I'm sure you are aware that there are now protocols that have to be enforced since you have decided to not listen to me.” he said with a stern look on his face.

“Admiral-” Leniad started before he was cut off once again by the admiral who quickly stood up the moment that he started talking. I felt someone poking me in the side and I looked over to see Donna looking down at me and handing me two little things that looked like pills. She mouthed the words “ear plugs, now.” I did not need to be told twice.

“You and your enforcers will now be escorted to the royal quarters, and you will wait until we have gained control of the situation, a situation that you and your brother have caused,” Blois said firmly as he crossed his arms. “I'm sure once you've had a few hours to cool down and get all this out of your system, you'll be more co-operative and allow us to do our jobs.” Blois said with a smug smirk on his face.

Even with the ear plugs, Leniads angry roar was echoing in my ears, only it didn't hurt this time around. Everyone else on the bridge cowered with their fingers in their ears, except Blois who looked very unimpressed and almost bored.

“Really now? Roaring?” Blois asked as I took out my earplugs “If you're going to act like a spoiled child and roar until you have your way, perhaps you should take lessons from your brother in how to not act like royalty.” Blois said with a snide sneer in his voice.

“I believe your emperor has demanded silence,” Joka said calmly “And I suggest you listen admiral.” he added.

“Shut your mouth, C.O.S. Joka,” Blois snapped as he unfolded his arms. “I was addressing the Emperor, not you. Impudent whelp.” he said firmly.

“You have interrupted me for the last time Blois!” Leniad practically shouted as he stepped forward. Donna grabbed my arm and the others quickly moved around me to stop me from getting closer. I didn't dare argue with them and kept my mouth shut as I held my stomach.

“Admiral Blois, you have interrupted your emperor, spoken down to your emperor, demeaned him in front of his subjects, and attempted to access and override the royal flagship without authorization,” Master said as he stopped right in front of the Admiral. “You are hereby relieved of your command of the Serengeti Station and stripped of rank effective immediately.”

“Now now, Leniad, I said we can talk about this later when you have cooled off a little. Clearly you are shaken up about your little yacht being scratched and that new plaything being roughed up.” The admiral said with a smirk on his face. “And I'm sure your brother will get over that little flea bitten stray he lost, but that's no reason to lose your temper and throw a tantrum.”

I had to wonder if the Admiral was unafraid, stupid, or both.

“ARMS” Leniad shouted loudly and the three gun wielding escorts behind him quickly raised their weapons and I could hear each one click and hum as they were armed and primed. And each of the men looked eager to use them. Blois though, didn't seem concerned. “Tower, open a video broadcast to all communications on the station and every ship in the area. I want security here on the double.”

“Really Leniad?” Blois said, sounding bored. “Trying to impress your little slave pet of yours with this display?” he asked. The words 'slave pet' were said with obvious disgust in his voice.

“Communications open your grace.” said one the of the nearby techs with a shaky voice.

“Admiral Blois, for your attempts at accessing highly restricted information, attempt to gain control of a royal flagship, disrespectful behavior towards your emperor, disrespectful behavior to members of the royal family, and undermining royal orders, you are hereby stripped of all rank and honors.” Leniad said loudly as he folded his arms over his chest.

It was only when Joka and Deb stepped forward and started to literally rip the clothes from Blois' body that the older lion seemed to realise that the emperor was serious. He struggled and yelled, but they ignored him as his clothing was ripped off him.

“You are no longer and shall never again be an officer in this empire. Your enrollment in the Imperial Armed Forces is hereby terminated. You are henceforth disgracefully discharged and are you longer permitted on the Serengetti Station. However, you will not leave here without receiving a minimum of forty lashes as a reminded that 'I' am the emperor and 'YOU' were merely an Admiral. Said lashes will be performed tomorrow before the executions.” Leniad ordered.

“Communications ended,” said the tower rep as the doors to the bridge opened and several security officers arrived just as Blois was reduced to wearing nothing but his underwear. I almost found myself giggling at the fact the elderly looking admiral was wearing a thong of all things. A leopard skin thong at that.

Now that he actually realized that what was happening was indeed real, Blois suddenly let out a road and attempted to leap forward. Not at the emperor though, but at me. However he barely got one step forward, his eyes wide, fangs and claws bared before my four escorts all opened fire at him at once. He was hit with four bright stun flashes and ended up crumpling to the floor and sliding under a console.

“Sire, will that be upgraded to a death sentence now?” Joka asked calmly as everyone lowered their guns. Leniad shook his head.

“No, he will be made an example of, not made into a martyr for the old guard who are still loyal to him. Take him to the garrison quarters immediately.” Leniad said to the officers who had arrived. They hesitated, only slightly. “YOU HEARD MY ORDER!” Leniad shouted. “Take him away.” Blois was grabbed by the officers and dragged away like a heavy sack of potatoes out the door.

“Tower, reopen the communications. All official channels now,” Leniad ordered as the tower rep did as she was told. Leniad then sat himself in the chair and took his emperor-regal-pose and that serious look on his face.

“Attention all staff and civilians of the Serangeti station. I am your Emperor, Leniad Leo. Effective Immediately, the IFS Sovereign will take over as primary command tower for the Serengati. The bridge is to be sealed and locked down with anyone attempting to access it shot on sight. You will not be given a warning shot.”

“All command staff are hereby relieved of duty and are to remain in their quarters. The jump drive is to be disengaged and powered down, all docking bays locked down till further notice. All crew are to report to security of the first fleet when ordered. Your orders will begin transmitting to your personal com stations starting in roughly one hour, fighter squadrons you are to return to your docking bays at once and await further instructions. That is all.”

Members of the Sovereigns security forces and bridge staff soon arrived and began to replace the bridge members who had been escorted away. Leniad didn't say anything or move the entire time the bridge crew was replaced and shifted over. Only once that had been done he allowed me to walk over, where he pulled me into his lap and hugged me tight, as if he hadn't done such a thing in months.

I wrapped my arms around Masters neck and held on, feeling his hand on my stomach. I thought about kissing him right there in front of everyone.

“The hacking attempt definitely originated from here,” Donna said as she went over the tower console. “Ordered by Blois the moment that he had ended communications with us earlier. The sovereign computer is much more advanced however. They didn't get anything.”

“Jump drive is in wind down and will be in lock position in five minutes. It will take a minimum seventy two hours to recharge,” Deb said from the engineering station. “They wouldn't be able to jump out of here even if they wanted too.” she added.

“Sir, I can't get through to the Sovereign. The coms system is being blocked.” Saber said from one of the tactical stations.

“We literally just left the Sovereign. We didn't get any reports of anything happening” one of the techs said. Master sighed as he made me get off his lap so he could stand up.

“Lock down all stations and shut the bridge down,” Leniad said firmly. “Set the computer to transfer all controls to the Sovereign once connection is made. Close the bridge shutters and once we leave, set the doors to lock down with a level five isolation field” he ordered. “This station goes dark and stays dark till we fix this mess.”

“Void the breathable air” Deb said with a smug smile. “If they do break in, they won't get very far” she said.

“Remind me never to let you in environmental, ever” Leniad said with a wary eye on her as he guided me to the lift with a hand on my shoulder. “Sovereign docking port, express lift.” he ordered.

“Belay that,” Joka said suddenly as he walked up next to us. We both looked at him in surprise as he held his hand out to the lift and had the scanner run over his hand. “Sorry your grace, we need to get you somewhere else first. Royal Deck, Echo, Romeo, Alpha. Authorization Joka, Siera, Sigma, Pie, Three, Three, Nine, royal command clearance.” he said as the lift opened up.

“Warning, station lock down in effect. Martial law has been authorized. All personnel please report to your quarters. All airlocks now sealed” announced the computers voice over the systems. I had to wonder who made all those pre-recorded messages. Leniad chuckled as the door lifts closed.

“Joka, you mad genius,” Leniad said with a smile once everyone was standing to attention. “I see what you have planned. Ok ladies, gear up. Once we get there, David and I will be in personal shields. We know the Sovereign better then they do, our target will be either the main bridge or the royal decks. Set to stun. I don't want any blood unless necessary. Davids safety has priority over mine.” he said firmly as he squeezed my shoulder.

“We can get into the Sovereign from a lift?” I asked. “I thought we had to go through the docking airlock again.”

“The Serengetti is designed to have the Sovereign and all the flag ships slide in and assimilate into once piece,” Deb explained to me. “Like a piece of a puzzle, they all fit in and become one big unit.”

I nodded as the lift stopped and the doors opened to reveal a large armory. A sterile area filled with lockers, alcoves and shelving containing heavy battle suits and all manner of types of guns. The group quickly headed to their assigned lockers and began to strap on their suits. Master moved me over to a locker and opened it, pulling out three personal shield units and handing me one.

“Put that one on too,” he said firmly to me as he attached the other two to himself. “I'm not taking chances with you. Now, listen very closely and do exactly what I say. The safest place I could put you is the royal suite on the Sovereign, but I can't do that, not with what feels like an open rebellion in the works. So stay close to us, do not walk away from us, and do not put yourself in danger no matter what.” he ordered me. I nodded and kissed his cheek.

“We are ready sir,” Melania said. I looked over and each one was dressed heavily and looked like a walking tank. I wondered how they could move wrapped up so bulkily. We all moved back into the lift, taking the same formations as earlier. The lift slowed and hummed as it came to a stop, and the doors slid open.

I couldn't help but gasp as what greeted us reminded me of the scene at the Algeron. The halls were deserted and there was the smell of scorched air and flesh everywhere. I could see people laying everywhere in the halls and doorways, and the walls were blackened from repeated firing.

“Alive, but barely,” Donna said as she scanned them with her scanner as we all moved slowly inwards. “looks like stun setting four on assault rifles, with repeated shots. Most in the back. They didn't see it coming until it was too late.”

“Holographics are down,” Joka reported. “Command system inoperative. Looks like the bridge did what they were supposed to do. Lock everything down with only two places to unlock it.” he said.

“We will head for royal deck one,” Leniad said as he pulled out his gun and checked it. “It was hard built into the ship that I could over-ride anything, but only in the royal deck or the bridge. And with the bridge locked down, royal deck one is our stop.”

“Who did this?” I asked as I looked around. “And how did they do this?”

“They must have snuck on after we escorted the emperor off.” Joka said, just as a new voice came over the comm system around us.

“This is General Tsuris. This ship is ordered to surrender to the station security of the Serangetti, and the Tsuris armed forces. Lay down your weapons and surrender your posts!” came the voice. Leniad surprised me by actually laughing.

“Well, we know who it is,” he said with a smirk on his face. “I knew Blois had loyalists, but I didn't think they would be this stupid,” he added. “Head out. We find this traitor and take him down, along with anyone who would dare stand with him and stand against us” he said, his face getting serious.

“The royal lift is probably the only one working right now,” Joka said as he gestured. “It's through here....AGAINST THE WALL!” he shouted as the door opened and several shots came through. Master and I were grabbed and shoved out of the way against the nearby wall as Joka and Deb began to return fire.

“GO GO GO!” they both shouted as we were forced to take a different door, our route now having to be changed. Donna and Sparks ran forward ahead of us, guns drawn as the door opened and they fired immediately. I heard cries of pain as we were pushed through the door and into the hallway.

We were escorted at a jog towards the lift at the end of the hall, half a dozen armed men were on the ground stunned and out cold. From around the corner the shooting stopped and we were brought to the lift where Joka and Deb ran up to us.

“TO THE LEFT!” Sparks shouted as a group of men ran around the corner and began to open fire on us. The lift doors opened and we were pushed in, Joka and Deb not getting in as the doors to the lift shut behind them. I was pushed into the corner as Master stood in front of me, the others quickly getting in front of us.

The lift hummed and quickly moved, leaving the two behind. I felt bad, but I knew that they would catch up to us later. No-one messed with my masters royal guards and didn't walk away from the encounter the loser.

“Bridge, come in,” Leniad said as he brought up his com system.

“Bridge here, good to hear your voice your grace,” Markeus said as his voice rang out. “The general and his forces are trying to access the bridge. But we are keeping them out. They are trying to bring down the defence shields and over-ride the system.”

“I see. Are you in any immediate danger? Are the royal decks secured?” Leniad asked with concern.

“Yes sir, the royal decks are secured. You do remember that two of your brothers boys were made to serve in the special forces? And one is ex special forces to your father?” Markeus asked with a chuckle. “No-one is getting to him. The embarrassment of being ass kicked by a slave is enough of a deterrent. The only ways in and out are through the royal lifts and they are locked down to your personal codes. All civilians and staff were rounded up to their quarters and locked in. Ship security though has been roundly decimated, but the barriers over primary areas are holding for now.”

“Then we have to leave. Report our situation to the rest of the first fleet and have them jump to our location at once. Begin uncoupling procedures and get us away from the station. Then shut down all bridge systems, prepare the emergency bridge system cuts. It may take time to repair the damage but if they do get into the bridge they wont go anywhere or be able to do anything” Leniad ordered firmly.

“Yes sir. Good luck, my emperor” Markeus said as the connection closed. The lift door opened a minute later, and I felt a rush of relief to be back in the familiar area of the royal suites. But I didn't get to relax all that much as we quickly left.

I felt the shudder of the ship as it detached itself from the station. I clutched at Saber as we walked, and he wrapped his arm around me to keep me steady. But we didn't stop moving as the ship left the docking bay and rather quickly reversed away.

Around us I could see security fields activating and blast doors shutting over all the windows and doorways as we walked forward. Everyone had their guns drawn as we were practically forced on. I felt a little confused as we reached a dead end at the end of a hallway. Leniad put his hand on the wall and the wall vanished, showing a hidden room behind it.

It looked like a simplified version of the main bridge, although there were other rooms off to the sides. Everyone quickly took their positions at the 'stations' as I was placed in what should have been my masters chair. It wasn't that comfortable.

“Status Report.” Leniad demanded as he stood behind me, his hand on my shoulder.

“The main bridge is offline, all controls locked and only accessible from here,” Sparks said. “We are rapidly approaching one thousand kilometres from the station. Primary systems offline, life support and communications are online. Cruising speed only, jump drive is offline and locked down.”

“Weapons systems are in lock down,” Melania said. “Internal barriers are holding, but we have no external shields. We're a sitting duck, and the loyalists are attempting to catch up. Guess Blois had more followers then we gave him credit for.”

“Contact from the other ships. They're hitting warp jump. They'll be here in minutes.” Saber said.

“It's foolish to assume that the General is not aware of us being on board by now,” Master said as he stroked his chin. “Contact the surface and inform them of what's going on. Tell the fleet to surround us immediately. Have the Valerian and Furor dock with us. I want a squadron from both ships to help secure ours. Have the Red Pride and a quarter of the fleet to dock at the station and secure it.” he ordered. They all nodded and began relaying communications rather quickly.

Master stayed behind me and kept his hand on my shoulder as we waited. It didn't take long.

“Sir, Joka and Deb are on their way up.” Donna said as she broke the silence. It took a minute later before the two of them returned. They nodded at us, not looking worse for wear and they got nods in return. Guess that counted as being glad to see them.

“Good” Master said as he looked down at me and rubbed my cheek with his hand. He then turned to the others. “Joka, you are a registered handler. You are to remain here with David. The rest of you are to come with me to the main bridge. This attempted coup will be put down today.”

“I'm not going with you?” I asked out of worry. He smiled and stroked my chin.

“A leaders place is with his people. I'm not going to stay here and let my men do the work for me. A good leader leads his people into battle, not stand behind and wait. And the safest place for you to be is here right now. You're my precious cargo after all” he said with a smile.

“Yes master, I understand.” I responded. The thought of being away from him was starting to make me upset, but I didn't dare show that in front of him. He nodded and kissed my forehead as he rubbed my stomach.

“Keep our baby safe,” he said softly to me as he stood up. “My brother and his boys will be escorted up here soon. You won't be alone with the walking dark and scary for long” he said humorously. Joka snorted. “Keep him safe Joka. And make sure my brother doesn't do anything undue towards him in my absence.”

“You mean unlike the time you were left alone with his bull Ronan and you were found blatantly groping his pecs wondering if they were functioning milkers?” Joka asked with a slowly forming smirk. I looked at master in surprise and he turned away so I couldn't see him blush.

“Everyone out!” he instructed quickly. “Activate the sanctuary protocol.” he said to Joka as they all quickly left the room. Master stopped at the door and gave me a look before the door closed all the way. A look that told me not to worry and that he'd be fine.

I held my stomach in my hands and ended up worrying anyway.