10
Samh 1.20.1345 09:00
The next morning the head of the planet and leader of all the militaries, Emperor Grangschmidt, appeared. Communications had not yet been restored in all areas of Simh, so apparently, the Emperor felt it best to go and assess the damage himself. All troops were called before him whereupon he told the Captain directly that he regretted the misfortune that had befallen the city and promised aid to quickly repair all the damaged structures. Work was already underway on the covered tubeways that had been destroyed.
According to the Emperor, the Xiepvuians had organized a large-scale attack—one of their largest yet—across the entire planet. Every country had been hit, but he was thankful that the attack was only strong in a few places, like Sintlycia Falls, and a couple of cities in the North. He openly praised Captain Raingiovanni for being able to get a distress signal out before communications went down.
The Captain explained how his daughter had almost been taken and praised Count Talrederick to the Emperor for saving the citadel and his child.
“Count Talrederick, come here,” the Emperor commanded, and the Count stepped out of his position among the ranks to greet him.
“I understand your brave actions saved this man’s daughter from serious harm, yesterday. I want you to take a cadre of men to the spot where you fought and bring back the bodies. We will make a display of them and send them back to Xiepvu with a message: We respect women on Samh, and this is what will be done to all your defilers!”
Count Talrederick was ashamed of himself even more than he had been. He had been so guilt ridden he had forgotten to follow procedure. “I—I don’t know if I remember where exactly I killed them, your Imperial Highness. Communication was down.”
At that moment, one of the soldiers from the rescue squad stepped forward and spoke up. “I took bearings while we were there, your Imperial Highness. I can lead us back to it.”
“Very well,” he said to the soldier. Turning back to Talrederick, he continued. “It is not like you to slip like that. I understand the situation was quite delicate, but make a note to do better in the future. A soldier should always know where he is at and where he is going.”
“As you command, your Imperial Highness.”
As the Emperor headed off to examine more of the direct damage, Talrederick stepped to the Captain’s side.
“It looks as if I must make my excuses again. This cleanup will take the rest of the evening.”
“And tomorrow?” the Captain asked.
“Tomorrow morning, I and my troops are departing for home. We need to analyze all that has happened and prepare for the next attack. We have found data suggesting it will come soon.”
“The invitation is ongoing. Whenever you have time, please feel free to come dine with us.”
“Thank you for your generosity,” Count Talrederick replied, still feeling as if he were a complete cad.
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