Original X-roads-2003

    Jamie moaned as he came to.
    Mesiaha rushed to his side and held up his head.
    Jabetto knelt over him, “You ok there?”
    Jamie’s eye’s rolled back and forth in their sockets. “Meeset…”
    Mesiaha let out a breath, “She didn’t make it through.”
    “Jas?” he was starting wake up.
    “She went with Sertoff.” Jabetto looked closer at him.
    “Where?” he sat up and moved away from Mesiaha.
    “They went to get permission from Emperor Kilji.” Daemon turned to them.
    There was a slight rustle and Sertoff emerged from the trees.
    Jabetto stood up straight seeing Sertoff return alone, “Where’s Jas?” his tones low and stable.
    Sertoff glared at him, “She’s in the Emperors’ Dungeon.”
    Jamie turned to Sertoff, “Figurez!”
    Sertoff walked over and smacked Jamie in the head, sending him to his knees. “We have a battle to prepare for.” he retorted. Sertoff turned to Mesiaha, “Not you. Just the men.”
    “Whatta ya talkin about?!?!” Mesiaha aspirated. “Ya sayin we ain’t as good as ya are?” she pulled her sword.
    Sertoff turned his eyes slowly to her and pulled out his blaster, “Emperor Kilji wishes your presence in the castle.”
    “Just do as you’re told.” Daemon walked past her and stood at Sertoffs side. “Or you’ll end up just like Jasylin.”
    Mesiaha rolled her eyes.
    Jabetto turned to Sertoff, “Why does he want the women? Maybe I don’t want to leave the women.”
    “Yeeeaaaah.” Jamie piped in with mistrust.
    “Need I remind any of you.” Daemon started in, “This is a war.”
    “Oh it’s true here too then is it?” Jabetto threw out, “All’s fair in love and war?”
    Sertoff turned from the group, blaster still in hand. He walked to the edge of the trees and stood before the group. “You are all bound by the laws of the Triblician Army. Disobeying Direct Orders will result in Death.” he looked at each member.
    “Ahh!” Jamie shook his head and walked over to them, “War iz hell!”
    Mesiaha glanced at Jabetto who had already started for Sertoffs side. “Whatta I care, I’ll just end up with Jas.” she rationalized.
    “There’s no doubt about that.” Daemon agreed. “You’re not the Emperors type anyway, you’re too young.”
 
    The group entered the throne room single file, Sertoff, Daemon, Mesiaha, Jamie, and in the rear Jabetto.
    The Emperor smiled at the prospect of another woman, “Bring her to me.” he ordered the guards, “Dispose of her weapons first.”
    The guards grabbed Mesiaha ripping her weapon from her. They walked her up to the Emperor and stood her in front of him.
    Mesiaha glared at the Emperor, “Whatta ya do ta Jas?” she commanded.
    The Emperor smiled, “Yet another strong spirit.” He looked past them to Sertoff, “You have done well for yourself, General.”