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Just Super (Working Title), Stories

Just Super (Working Title) – Part 5

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I didn’t answer right away. She had been gone from my life for years, left me alone at one of the toughest times of my life. I didn’t owe her a conversation.

But Valiant had said to hear her out. He had never steered me wrong, and he was positive it wasn’t a trap or he wouldn’t have even brought it up. That had to count for something.

“Alright. You got somewhere in mind?” She nodded and gestured for me to follow her to a car parked on the street. We both got in and buckled, and off she went. “So… What, you saw me in trouble and had to check in?” I asked after a few minutes of silence. “I’m sure you’ve known I was in the hero business for a while now.”

“Actually… I didn’t until today. I don’t pay attention to any heroes below gold,” She replied evenly. “If I started to, for anything less than a major event, questions would be asked that neither of us want asked. But I knew when I heard you take charge of your team, and when I came on to assure your team we were on it. Yes, I did want to ensure you were unharmed. But that’s not the only reason we need to talk.”

“Because of the rogue.” It wasn’t a question, since I knew for sure now that I was the target. “You said you know who it is, and I believe we both know who the target is.”

“That would be correct. He’s been on our radar for a few months. He wasn’t doing anything actively wrong, but there were a few suspicious behaviors that our analysts had picked up on, so he’s been on our watchlist for possible rogue activity. Looks like we were right.” She parked by a small house and sighed. “I know it sounds odd, villains watching for rogues, but they ruin more of our plans than people would expect. His little stunt tonight interrupted three preparations that some of our people were making, and actively ruined two other plans that will need reworked. No, I won’t be giving you details, not while you’re a hero.” She got out. “Come on, I’ve got this place so locked down the governments best spies couldn’t tap into it.”

“I’ll take your word for it,” I sighed, getting out and following her. Once inside, she stopped and looked at me a moment.

“Before we talk, call and let your grandparents know you’re safe and you’ll be home in just a bit. You can tell them you’re with me if you like, or you can tell them whatever will make them worry the least. Your collapse was, unfortunately, televised.”

She had the right idea, that was certain, so I did as instructed. I told them the truth about where I was, as I don’t lie to them if I can help it, but also told them I’d be home as soon as our talk was over. While they didn’t like it, they said they understood.

“Grandma says to tell you hello,” I reported as I got off the phone. “Grandpa is… Less friendly towards you right now.” My mother sighed, but nodded.

“He always was one to hold a grudge. I can’t say I blame him. Come, sit, let’s talk.” She led me into a living room and took a seat in a recliner, waving a hand to invite me to take any other seat. I took one on a nearby couch, giving myself some distance from her, but not across the room or anything. “Now… I know I am not your favorite person. I don’t expect to be. I abandoned you, and this is not my attempting to come back begging for forgiveness. I am concerned for your safety, whether you believe that or not. But I know you, and I know you take after your father. You aren’t simply going to walk away from this threat. So, I will give you the information I have so you can handle whatever comes at you as intelligently as possible.”

“If you were that concerned for my safety, why become a villain and put a target on your back?” I countered. It was stupid, knowing she wanted to give me valuable information, but when you live your life filled with hurt, and the years you develop your sense of identity full of hate, some things are just hard to ignore. I couldn’t help myself, even knowing I shouldn’t risk her changing her mind.

I expected anger, regret, even indifference. I didn’t expect the laugh she let out. “Dear one, the only time I wasn’t a villain was while I was married to your father. Part of why your grandfather is so upset with me. He thought I’d given the life up for good once I’d settled down. In reality, I didn’t want to risk your father and I ever having to choose between our jobs or our marriage. He didn’t know until you were three that I had been a villain.” She smiled, a little sadly. “When we first learned of his passing… I had intended to remain a civilian. But things changed. And once they did, I knew I had to make more changes happen.”

“Like what? What was so important that you had to be a villain for it instead of a hero?” I asked, frowning.

“I can’t explain that now. In time. But I learned something about the incident that took your father… Something that meant I had to fight the heroes, not join them.”

That didn’t make any sense. “You’re insinuating that the Association had something to do with Dad’s death. So this is all revenge?”

“Revenge? No. This is about causing change, by my own actions. You will understand one day.” She shook her head. “No more about this now. We need to discuss the rogue.” I didn’t want to change subjects, but I also knew if I stayed too long, I’d worry my grandparents again. “Now… As I said, we’ve been watching this rogue. You… Actually know him, though I don’t think you two have seen each other since you were little.”

“What?” I asked, startled. “Who?”

“Your cousin, Micah. My brother moved away with him when you both were still quite young, after his mother left them, and then… We lost all contact. I tried to find them a few times over the years, but no luck. Now that he’s back, and we’ve been keeping tabs on him, I notice that he seems to harbor a grudge against you. I haven’t sorted out why yet, you two were close before they moved. If I can get in touch with him directly, I plan to try to talk him down before anyone has to get hurt. If I can’t or he won’t listen… I’d like not to have to use force against family, but if it will be you or him, I will protect you first.”

“I don’t need your protection. I’m an adult, and a hero in my own right.” I shook my head, standing. “But knowing it’s Micah may help. Now I at least have as much of an advantage as he had, we both know who the other is. Have you heard from Uncle Mark?”

“No, and I won’t. In looking into things… He passed away, shortly after they left.” Bella sighed, rubbing her face. “Which might be part of Micah’s deal, jealousy that you had family around you and he did not. I tried to find them… This explains why I couldn’t, not easily.” She offered me an envelope. “That’s… That’s for your grandparents. Give it to my mother first, please. Dad will just rip it up and throw it in the trash, but there’s information in there that they’ll want, including the location of Mark’s grave, should they wish to go visit.”

I didn’t really remember my uncle Mark that well. I was three or four when they moved away, but I had pictures of him taking me and Micah out, as my dad would do with us as well. He had been a good uncle, according to those pictures and the stories I heard about how he’d interacted with us.

Remember him or not, I was upset that not only had he died, it had happened so long ago and we were only just finding out about it. Did he not leave a way for people to find out how to contact us? Had anyone even tried? Micah could have come back and lived with Grandma and Grandpa, or my family until shit hit the fan. Hell, maybe having one more kid to worry about would have stopped whatever campaign my mother was on.

“I’ll give this to them,” I said after a moment, taking the envelope. “Is there anything else I need to know?” She shook her head and stood.

“You won’t believe anything else I’d like to say, and I can’t blame you for that. Let’s get you back to your car so you can get home. Unless you’d rather I drop you off there? You have had an exhausting day.”

I considered the offer. “Drop me off at home, please. And take the opportunity to give Grandma your letter yourself.” She nodded, and we headed out to the car.

Just Super (Working Title), Stories

Just Super (Working Title) – Part 4

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Transport was waiting for us just a couple blocks away, past the crowds, in the form of two ambulances and a van. Hurricane and Jet were already getting checked by medics by the time Thorn and I cleared the crowd. I didn’t make it to the medics.

My vision went blurry without warning, and I heard a loud ringing in my ears, causing me to stop.

“Flare?” Thorn’s voice sounded distant and concerned as a horrible pain came through my head and I crumpled. I was unconscious before anyone knew what was happening.

When I opened my eyes, I could tell I wasn’t actually awake. I had always been a lucid dreamer, at least as long as I could remember. This was different than a usual dream for me, however.

I was looking at my childhood home, which had since been demolished to make way for a larger apartment complex. My dad was sitting on the front steps, smiling and waving me over when he saw me.

“So, you’re a hero now. Always knew you would be. Just thought I’d still be around to give you tips. We’ll just have to make the most of talking like this.” His voice was as crisp and clear as the last time I’d heard him talk, deep but smooth and caring. “Come sit and talk, my little ember, while your friends make sure you’re healthy and whole.”

“You uh… Know about what’s going on?” I asked, coming to sit with him. It was different than I remembered, but then I’d been looking up at him the last I’d seen him. Now, we were nearly the same height.

“I do. This isn’t some dream, kiddo. No, this is a shift in your powers. It happens sometimes, powers morphing or new ones developing that work with existing ones. I believe that’s how Valiant’s dad developed telekinesis. He already had telepathy, and since they often go together, they sometimes develop one after the other.”

“So… Talking with the dead interacts with invisibility or fire?” I asked, doubtful. I’d certainly never heard of that kind of connection.

“Not quite talking with the dead… This is more… Well, I don’t know the official name for it, but you’re more receiving messages through dreams. It’s not super common, but when it has been present, it usually presents with either fire or telepathy. Occasionally also with water, but not as often. And it’s not a power you’re likely to have full control of. Most you’ll be able to do is keep it from affecting you like it did this first time, forcing you out to get a message.”

“Alright… So now I’ve got three powers, one of which I can’t control. And I’m talking to you. What… Kind of message do you have for me?”

“That you need to be careful. That rogue? He knows more about you than most heroes do. Bella knows who he is, she’ll try to put a stop to his antics, but it isn’t likely to work. You’ll likely be the one to stop him, long term,” Dad sighed.

“Likely? I take it this is as certain as any warning from Oracles?” I asked. Why couldn’t someone, just once, have a certainty when foreseeing the future?

“Exactly like. Humans, by their nature, change the future all the time. Most of the outcomes I know of, which certainly aren’t all of the possible outcomes since I’m not gifted at this, have you stopping him after your mother fails to.”

“She’s not my mother, not anymore,” I replied instantly, then looked down. “I… Shouldn’t say that to you, I know you love her too…”

“And I know she hurt you. That too will likely find closure for you, one way or another. The important thing is, you are not responsible for what she did or will do, just how you react to it. Now, back to this rogue. As I said, be careful. There are outcomes to this where you perish, and I don’t want to see that happen if you can help it. I know better than most of the current Association that sometimes, your hand will be forced in that regard,” He chuckled, inviting me to share the joke. I managed a small smile. “And look back over some of my old news footage. You may find a trick or two you had forgotten about that will come in handy, for this or future issues. And don’t be too hard on Jet Force. He’s not trying to be an idiot about your identity, he just has the luxury of not having to hide who he is under that mask.”

I considered everything he told me, then frowned. “Wait… This rogue knows a lot about me? Does he know who I really am?”

“Yes.” That simple word shook me. If he knew who I was, he could know where to find my grandparents. And if he had gone to the trouble to figure out who I was, then that meant…

“I’m his target. At least currently. Why else would he dig so deep on this?”

“You are. He practically told you, calling you an orphan. Why would anyone think you’re an orphan when no one knows who you are? But, your standing up to him may have touched a nerve and made him say something he hadn’t intended to reveal yet. It’s definitely the line that made your mother realize who he’s after.” Dad ran a hand through his short hair, looking out into the distance. “Just try to be safe, kiddo. You’re doing a good job. Hell, you’ve already shown you can step up and be a team captain if needed. Now, time to wake up and assure everyone you’re alright.” He hugged me tightly and I hugged him back. “Love you, Alix. Always have, always will.”

“I love you too, Dad,” I whispered, closing my eyes.

When I opened them again, there were lights above me and I was laying flat. From the sounds around me, I was already in the infirmary at headquarters. “Well, welcome back, Flare,” Valiant said, seated nearby. “Docs said you were fine, just thought I’d wait and make sure. Janet would kill me if I didn’t.” That made me smile a little, because he was right that my grandmother would be furious. I sat up and looked at him. “So… New power, or stress?”

“New power,” I answered. “Dream visions or something… Dad didn’t know what it’s called.”

“Well, that may be useful. Your old man say anything worth sharing?” He crossed his arm, a look of contemplation on his face.

“I think you know he did,” I sighed. “He confirmed that I’m this rogue’s target. My mother knows who it is, and now knows who he’s after. She’ll try to stop him.”

“Try?” Valiant asked, raising an eyebrow. “So he’s not sure if she’ll manage.”

“That’s right.”

“Well… We best make sure you’re prepared, just in case. I’ll let the other platinums know that we confirmed you’re the target. I won’t bring up your mother- That’s no one else’s business, unless you want it to be.”

“Thanks, Valiant,” I smiled slightly. He was always good like that.

“Eh, we’re off duty, kiddo, you don’t gotta be formal,” he chuckled. I grinned.

“Alright… Thanks, Uncle Joey,” I teased. “Am I cleared to head out? You know my grandparents have to be worried.”

“You are… But uh… Someone’s waiting at the front door to talk to you.” He stood, as I did, and he moved to put a hand on my shoulder. “Hear them out, but don’t rush to any conclusions about what they say. If I thought this was a trap or dangerous, I wouldn’t let them even try.” He gave me a smile, then left.

If he thought it was a trap? So I wasn’t going to like whoever was waiting for me. At the moment, only one person came straight to mind. At least this wouldn’t be too bad, image wise. She kept her identity as secret as I did, so no one that didn’t already know who she was would assume I was talking to an enemy.

I got myself changed to civilian clothes and went to head out for my car. Sure enough, it was my mother, also in civilian clothes, waiting for me. “Alix- You’re alright?” She asked when I approached.

“I’m fine.” I knew my voice sounded cold, but I wasn’t inclined to behave otherwise. She didn’t seem too surprised by it either, giving a small nod.

“I’d like to chat a minute. Somewhere we won’t be overheard. If you wouldn’t mind.”

Just Super (Working Title), Stories

Just Super (Working Title) – Part 3

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Jet helped me down first, and I lit the area and checked it out before allowing him to set me down and go back for Hurricane. While I waited for them to catch up, I noticed this particular room was empty. Like, completely devoid of anything but a door. There was no furniture, there wasn’t a lightbulb in the socket, and there were no shelves or anything hung on the walls. Moving to investigate the walls more closely revealed what seemed to be a hidden door opposite the regular door. I looked around again, shifting my fireball as much as I could to see if there were any reflections from any cameras anywhere. I saw none, but I couldn’t trust that meant there were no cameras. Jet and Hurricane landed behind me, and I turned to signal them to be quiet. They moved over closer.

“What’s up?” Hurricane whispered.

“There’s a hidden door here, and I’m not sure there are any cameras in this room. If this is a blind spot… What if he doesn’t know about the hidden door? What if it’s a safe spot?” Jet and Hurricane traded looks.

“I hope you don’t think that room is perfectly safe. I know where you went, even if I can’t see you in there.” Our rogue wasn’t about to leave us with any doubt. “There is nowhere in this hotel you can rest, and I know your only two possible escape routes from there. You take the door and enjoy more of my wonderful traps, or you go back upstairs and face my wonderful traps. Don’t deny the people the fun of watching you as you try to puzzle it out, make your choice.”

“I choose option C,” I muttered, moving and carefully trying to open the hidden door. It slid open easily, not sealed shut just designed in a way to make it hard to notice unless you were right on it. The other two slipped in the room, and I followed and carefully shut the door back behind us.

The hidden room was clearly some sort of room to hide people, as there were makeshift beds and old covers set up in here. We all breathed a sigh of relief and moved as far from the door as we could.

“This at least might give us a little time to plot,” Jet pointed out. “I’m sure he’ll figure it out at some point, but it’s time we have to think and plan.”

“Well… If this room is hidden from him, how many others might there be?” Hurricane asked. “We have an advantage with this knowledge.”

“We do… Let me try the communicator, maybe the signal blocker doesn’t go over this part,” I pointed out, taking out the communicator and pushing the button. “Technix? Can you hear me?”

There was silence on the other end for several seconds, then, faintly, “Flare? Did you find a spot that wasn’t blocked? The signal sounds faint, but I’ve been removed from the scene, so it could just be distance.”

“Yeah, we found a hidden room. I don’t think our rogue knows about it, but I also don’t know if we can escape from this spot.”

“We’ve got all the heroes and villains working on a rescue plan. Apparently, this rogue works with Kyrans on occasion, when they swing through the solar system. It’s some kind of metal from their world, we don’t know much about it yet. Valiant is working on finding any scientists who know enough about it to tell us how to get through it.”

“Has anyone tried melting it yet?” Hurricane asked. “Do we have any idea the melting point?”

“Not yet. The fire villains are concerned if they try it and it works, they could accidentally start a fire in the building, which could completely defeat the purpose of trying to get in and get you three out unless we can coordinate where you three would be when we tried.”

“I can try melting it from inside, when we get back to a point where we can safely do so. The room we were in was a ticking time bomb before that robot got in and killed us, I’m sure,” I sighed.

“Flare, can you lot break through the roof of that room and get out that way? If it’s level with the rest of the basement, but outside his shield, that might be the best way to escape,” came a different voice through the communicator. It was Valiant.

“We can try. Jet?” I looked at him, and Jet was already flying at ceiling level and investigating it.

“Judging by where the window would have been on that room, we should be on the outside of it, yes… How thick is that metal sheet?”

“Only a few inches,” Technix answered.

“Then it won’t have extended enough to block anything… Hurricane? Thoughts?”

“I think the room is stable enough that you could safely break through, especially if Flare and I back into the previous room so we won’t get taken out by debris. Then, even if the door gets blocked, you’d be able to clear it pretty quickly.”

“There are other heroes on standby outside, they will also help,” Valiant assured us. “Alright, girls, get back to the previous room. Jet, once they’re clear of it, go ahead and try to break through.” I handed Jet the coms and went back through to the other room with Hurricane, closing the door carefully behind us. New sounds came to me above us, indicating that the robot was indeed working on ramming its way through the door. Perhaps it couldn’t hold as much ammo as I expected it could, with the size of it.

That noise was quickly replaced with the sound of Jet hammering through the ceiling of the hidden room. It had been made of concrete, which didn’t tend to stand a chance against Jet. “What is that noise? What are you foolish heroes trying to do, tunnel through the basement wall?” The rogue asked angrily.

“Guess you’re gonna find out!” I called back over the racket, before there were two loud crashing noises, one after the other. Jet opened the door as I heard the robot heading our way, pulling the two of us into what remained of the hidden room and shutting the door back quickly. Two other flying heroes had moved down the help clear the path a bit, then helped Jet get us out of the mess quickly. A cheer went up around us and I sighed, looking at the crowd of heroes and citizens around us.

“This isn’t over!” Came a thunderous voice from a loudspeaker on top of the hotel behind us, making those of us closes to the building flinch as the metal retracted back up the building. “I will destroy my enemies, regardless of this setback! You can’t escape me forever!” Jet Force and Hurricane flinched again and quickly stepped away from the building. I didn’t, facing it and standing straight and proud.

“You better hope you aren’t where we can easily track you, rogue, because your time running amok is limited!” I called easily. Admittedly, I was a bit more afraid of this guy than I sounded like I was, but I had just been in what had been intended as a death trap. That would scare anyone, especially a young adult early in their career, hero or not. “You are now on the Association’s radar, it’s only a matter of time before one of us finds and apprehends you!”

“Big talk from some little orphan girl that’s only going to burn out in the long run,” The voice retorted. “You still aren’t even sure which of you three I wanted in my trap, are you? Could be you I’m targeting, couldn’t it? Or one of your little friends there, they wonder cousins. Perhaps I’m lying and just trying to psych you out, perhaps none of you were my direct targets. But go on, show your city you aren’t as afraid of me as your teammates there, recoiling in fear from me. Sheer luck got you out of my traps today.”

Someone put a hand on my shoulder and I looked. It was Thorn, another platinum hero that looked out for the younger ones. “Well said, Flare. And good work, leading your team out of there. Come on, let the platinums and golds search the building while you three come and debrief.”

“Of course, Thorn,” I agreed, turning and walking with her. Jet and Hurricane were already a distance from the building, looking back over their shoulders at it every once in a while and clearly a bit freaked out.

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 9 – End

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I spent a week in the area, learning how people lived and how the changes to the laws were affecting them. People were happy to talk to me about it, and I had several dinners with various families in the area.

There were jobs to be done while we talked, and I certainly helped where I could. I even learned a few new skills while I educated myself.

For once in my life, I recognized how privileged I had been. Mom and Dad never once struggled to support us, and our farm was plenty prosperous. How many other rebels were like me? How many thought they were lower class or poor, just to have a similar background to me?

Well, one way to find out was to return to the rebels camp and attempt to enlighten them. I certainly didn’t think I could talk down an entire rebellion this way, but if I could convince a few people they were wrong, it would be a victory.

So back to the camp I went. I was welcomed back easily, as every hand helps, but it didn’t stay that way. I set myself up in the center of camp to announce my findings… and promptly found myself booed out and running for my own safety. I did see a few looks of consideration, but not many.

Oh well. I tried. The next question was what I would do now. Return home and continue my comfortable lifestyle? Or join the king’s army and defend the work he had started?

I suppose, by this point, it wasn’t really a question for me. A letter to my parents later, it was time to talk to an army recruiter.

Army training wasn’t particularly eventful. The rebellion went on for quite a while, and I proved myself capable as I worked. Before I knew it, I was promoted through the ranks until the king himself asked me to join his personal guard. It wasn’t exactly an offer I expected, being a previous rebel myself, but I took it willingly.

Now, I help coordinate movements by the king to try to bypass rebel hotspots. Tomorrow, we’re heading to a talk the king is to give. Word came in yesterday that a rebel party planned to ambush us on our previous route and time frame, so things were moved up by a week. Something still feels off about this.

I guess only time will tell if this is just paranoia talking, but I intend to remind the others to remain on alert at all times. The rebels could easily predict this move. Protecting the king has to be our top focus at all times.

If all goes well, maybe we can wind this rebellion down in another couple of months.

Marcus fought the two guards who had moved him from the fight, trying to return to where he and his men had been ambushed. “I have to help them! I can fight too, you know!”

“We all know you’re more important to the kingdom than we are,” The older guard sighed. “We must wait until things calm. If you die, all of this was for naught.”

“Besides, Eli took charge of it. The boys a natural leader. Let him do his thing,” The other guard smiled. The king sighed and stopped trying to get away from them, waiting.

When the fighting calmed down, the older guard went to investigate before returning. “We’ve won- three dead on our side, the rest are in various states of wounded but look likely to recover.”

“Good- let’s go get them out of harm’s way, and decide our next move,” Marcus ordered, heading back to his men. The two guards followed, on alert for more attacks.

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Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 8

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I decided to leave camp that night, with no one to watch. How could I trust that man on his word alone? Yet, at the same time, I couldn’t just accept the words of the rebels, either. I needed to speak to ordinary people, poorer people who were affected differently by the changes.

I had to educate myself, since I couldn’t trust either side to be completely truthful with me. The capital city itself would be my school, then. Walking among the lower class, learning from them and seeing how they viewed the changes the usurper had made… That would be the best education. The well-off citizens had already made their thoughts known, but if the king was right… Well, if he was right, then there wasn’t going to have been a way to make changes without angering them. Even making more gradual changes would’ve angered people.

It was nearing dawn as I roamed the poorer district of the city. All my life, I had heard tales of how run down and disasterous this district was. Something was different now, though- Everywhere I looked, I could see repairs being made. People that were out by now all looked happy, and healthy despite their leanness.

“Excuse me-” I called to a young man, close to my age, after a couple hours. He looked over, confused, but then moved closer to see what I wanted. “I don’t mean to bother you, I just have a couple questions if you can spare a moment?”

“Yeah- I’ve got time. What can I do for you, stranger?” He was relaxed, and smiled when he spoke. This was a young man who was happy, I could tell, and not just pretending at it.

“I was… Well, I’ve travelled a long way, due to the new king… And I’ve been learning as I go about the things that have been done and how they’ve been viewed. It came to my attention recently that… I only considered people with privilages like mine or better. I didn’t talk to anyone who might have had a better opinion of things, anyone who might have been helped- I don’t mean to make assumptions about you, but you seem happier than people I’ve talked to recently. What are your thoughts about changes made right now?”

The young man looked a little surprised, but pleasantly so. “A guy like you, clearly decently well off, wants to know what the poor think?” He asked, then grinned when I nodded. “Out of all the changes happening right now, that is the smallest. But it’s the best. Let me explain my thoughts, then- And if you want more opinions, I’d be glad to introduce you to people around here.”

He led me to a bench we could sit at, taking a seat and smiling. “Things have gotten better around here since King Marcus took over. I’m sure you’ve noted the construction around here- He donated his personal money to get things started. Said he needed to work on the budget to make sure he could fix infrastructure across the kingdom, including buildings and housing, without hindering any other important things. Came and spoke to us personally, telling us that some reforms he has coming in taxes and the prison system will help him either increase the treasury or save money for the kingdom without endangering it, so he can use it to open free public schools. He told us he hopes to be able to open some trade schools for those who otherwise couldn’t afford it, to help decrease the poverty level and give more people the tools they need to care for themselves.

“The prison reforms… They’re great! He’s trying to find ways to give lesser criminals a second chance- Get things done in the kingdom while giving these people skills that may help them find work. My brother was a theif- Just a theif. But under the old rules, he was going to spend the rest of his life in jail. Now, he’s out working on infrastructure and learning skills that will let him support himself without stealing when he gets out. His term is now three years, enough time for him to learn. Murders, arsonist, rapists, they don’t get this offer. The really violent people, the dangerous people, they don’t get a second chance. But, by doing this, he’ll get people that were just in a bad position out for a new chance, and he’ll save money on imprisoning people. He said he’s also working on restructuring what terms each crime gets, and the system to track those crimes and sentences. He’s trying to make things equal, so everyone is treated fairly.”

“What about the assistance system?”

“Oh, the changes to that are going to be great, too! I personally know three people that have been kicked off the system, and they’re not happy… But they were abusing it, and they know it. They weren’t trying to support themselves, just getting paid by the government to do what they wished. It wasn’t fair to people like me, working to support myself and just needing a little more assistance. And government assistance isn’t the only thing getting a boost- There are less kids living on the streets. Only the most stubborn have stayed, rather than going to an orphanage. They opened a new one nearby, and it seems pretty nice. If it stays well-funded, a lot more kids will be able to grow up safe and healthy, and maybe even find families.”

This man felt confident in the new ruler. He felt the new changes were helping him, and the honest folk around him. Hearing him talk about the changes and improvements eased my heart, but I couldn’t base my opinions on the thoughts of one man.

“This is very enlightening,” I told him with a smile. “I do want to talk to some more people- Get a real feel for consensus. If I’m going to educate myself, don’t want to base things on the thoughts of one man, right?”

“Sounds right to me.” He stood and grinned. “I can show you were folks socialize, so you’ll have more people to talk to. I’ll try to steer you to people I don’t know so well, if I can, so you’re not just hearing from my circle.”

“That’d be great, thank you. If I’m taking up much of your time, I’ll gladly pay you for the guidance.” I stood as well, and followed him as he started walking. This was going to be a very educational day, and probably longer. I wouldn’t fall prey to misinformation, handling things like this.

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 7

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“That’s everything,” I reported, having repeated everything the usurper had said, and handing over the files. “He seemed genuine- So either he is, or he’s a good actor.”

“So, you trust his word?” One of the leaders of the rebellion demanded.

“I never said that. He believes what he says, or he’s good at faking it. That’s all. I’ve seen enough people that were harmed by these reforms to cause doubt in his words.” As many people as could be close enough to hear were crammed around me in the center of the camp, listening in and forming their own opinions. I could see a few faces that were confused, many that were hard set and clearly still against the king. Yet, there were a couple, here and there, that looked thoughtful and considering. “I think we should move carefully- If he’s swayed enough people to believe him, we’ll have a hard fight against our own people. We should try to minimize that bloodshed or we’ll just start a civil war. That would be the ruin of the kingdom.” The leaders looked at each other, clearly not having considered that fact.

“You’re right. We’ll talk, come up with a plan,” Another leader said finally. He looked around, then sighed. “Can you spread the word? Anyone that believes him and wants out… They may go, with our blessing. But if they stand against us, should a battle come… We won’t hold back.” I nodded and went to spread the word as the crowd broke up.

It took me a couple hours to get through the camp, making sure everyone knew what we knew. At least we had that right- Everyone had a right to make their own decisions in this area. And, as I worked, I started to come to my own decision regarding how to proceed, and how I felt about the meeting. Heading to where my pack had been put, I began to prepare for my next move.

“My lord… We’ve gotten a large influx of young men and women volunteering for the army,” An advisor said, coming to find Marcus. “They seem to sense trouble on the horizon.”

“I see…” Marcus sighed. “I will prepare to speak with them, I suppose. We still want to try to avoid a battle, but… We will at least have enough people if it comes to that. What news of the rebel camp and forces?”

“We’ve reports of a small percentage of people leaving the camp, heading for their homes. The representative appears to have indeed shared your words and the files. It hasn’t convinced them all to let this progress, but it has gotten a few to give you a chance.”

“I’m sure there are more still considering things. Perhaps they, too, will head home. Perhaps not. We need to be ready for either, without putting undue hardship on our people or taking too many forces from anything important. Especially if incoming reports are correct about our wonderful northern neighbors building a force at our border.” Marcus sighed again and stood to look out a window in his study, hands clasped behind his back as he thought. “Have I made a mistake? Moved too quickly to try to right the wrongs of this kingdom? It was in a dangerous state, near collapse or rebellion… Have I only swung the threat of rebellion to the other side?”

“What does that matter now?” The advisor asked. “What’s done is done. You cannot go back and change your decisions now. Either this will blow over safely, or you will pay for your decisions, in your blood or that of the people. But how you proceed from here will continue to write your character in history for all to see. If you feel you may have rushed too quickly before, try to prevent doing so now. Think your next decisions through carefully, and perhaps we can shift the course of things to prevent a civil war, or total distruction of our kingdom.”

“Or perhaps not.” Marcus murmured. “Perhaps it is already too late… But we won’t know that until the next move is made.” He turned to look to his advisor. “Can you gather the others of my council? I think it’s past time I had everyone’s input before I make another foolish decision. I should have started this way from the start, but better late than never.” The advisor smiled slightly.

“Of course, my lord. I will have them gathered and in the largest meeting room within an hour.” He turned and left, letting Marcus prepare for a potentially kingdom saving meeting.

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 6

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“Thank you for making the trip to come and meet with me. I understand your people are unhappy with changes I’ve made, and I’d like to hear what about them has upset people. Every policy or change I enact will, of course, have opponents. But I’d like to try to find an amicable resolution to all of this, rather than just blow your opinions off.” This Marcus guy was more relaxed than I’d expected. Perhaps killing him would be easier than I thought. But, why did he want to talk about why we were unhappy? Wasn’t it obvious?

“You’ve increased taxes. That’s going to make anyone unhappy, for starters.”

“Ah- I knew that might be part of it. You see, I only raised taxes for those who had unfair tax advantages. The tax rate is now even across the board. My predessesor allowed the richest people to pay practically nothing, while the poor paid most of what they made. If your family was affected by the shift, I must apologize. It had to be done, however, to try to help those most in need. And the tax money is already going back into the kingdom- A boost to the assistance system, more money for schools, and money to build or improve orphanages.” This jerk actually looked happy with himself- Then again, if he was telling the truth, that was for the better… The school system certainly needed the help.

“Why boost the assistance system if you’re denying it to people?” I growled. I couldn’t fall for his ruse.

“Only to those who could find work and simply won’t. We can’t help everyone who needs it if those who could manage on their own simply don’t want to try. Unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee no one can abuse the system, but we can try our best to cut down on those who would.”

“And the increase in the number of orphans? How’d you manage that, through your mass executions?” He looked perplexed.

“I haven’t executed anyone since I took the throne. Imprisoned, a couple of murderers. But I didn’t want to start my rule with killing. No, the orphans are those who slipped through the cracks and were living alone or in gangs on the streets. I’m saddened by how many did, but we’ll get them the education and safety they deserve. Preferably, we can also find them families.” He sighed, watching my face. “You don’t believe me- No, I can’t say I blame you. I should have considered this, the way that rumors and misinformation would spread. Not much one can do about it, though, and people will believe what they wish to.”

He meant it, didn’t he? Good grief, either this man was legitimate or he was the best actor I had ever seen. I felt myself relaxing a bit as I considered this.

“And the slavery accusations?”

“Slavery… Well, I suppose it could be seen that way, but no- It was voluntary. An offer to small-time convicted criminals, to rehabilitate them and give them a skill set and second chance at life. At the same time, things around the kingdom get fixed up. If you ever get a chance to speak to one of these men, you’ll see they’re quite happy with the deal. And no one dangerous gets offered the deal- Murderers and rapists will remain locked up.”

“I… Can’t tell if you mean it all, or if you’re the world’s best actor,” I admitted after a quiet moment of thought.

“That’s fair. I can’t expect you to change your mind immediately, nor to trust me so quickly. I expect I’d feel the same in your position.” He offered me a file chock full of papers. “Please… Feel free to share this information with your comrades. Nothing in here is confidential. I understand if not everyone, or even no one, stands down. I only ask that you all please just give me a chance to prove myself. I haven’t even been on the throne for six months yet.”

“Yeah… Sure. I’ll share this with them,” I nodded, taking the file, and my leave of him. This was going to take a lot of contemplation, but I had a feeling hardly anyone would buy it. I wasn’t even sure I bought it.

Marcus watched the young man go and sighed, rubbing his face. “He doesn’t believe me. People are so prepared to believe the worst of the government… I can’t blame them, given the previous king.”

“No… This is different. These, from what we can tell, are upper class citizens. Well off. They’re affected most by your reforms, at least in terms of taxes. They expect more breaks just because they’re well off, and they’re rebelling because they want things easy for them again. Some are upper-middle class people, like that young man. They’re being told spun versions of the reforms, and haven’t interacted enough with the poor folks to know how they feel about it all.” His advisor, stepping in from the next room, watched the new king. “There’s little we can do except be transparent, and hope the common folk step up to help educate the rich.”

“I hope it doesn’t come to that- Innocent people would be hurt or killed. I want everyone to live in peace.”

“There’s a hope we can all get behind.”

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 5

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At last, and with companions in tow, I approached the rally point for the rebellion. We had several hundred people in the camp, as I could see from a hill above it. I could also see the kingdom’s army stationed a few hundred yards away, far enough to prevent unnessecary fighting but close enough to be ready if we made a move toward the capital, which was well on the far side of the kingdom’s soldiers.

“Well, this is a large sack of manure,” I muttered to my new friends. “Why are they fighting for him? After the reports we’ve had…”

“Who knows? Did you lot hear, orphanages are filling up and new ones being built. Sounds like he’s already killed enough people to increase the number of orphans in our kingdom.” A scout nearby growled and spat on the ground, then looked at us again. “We’re getting things settled, when to attack and who will do what. Go see our leader, that red tent in the center of camp.”

“Thanks,” I nodded and went down the hill, frowning. That many more orphans? What was this monster up to? Well, no matter, I would certainly help put a stop to it.

I heard more murmurs of his wrong-doing as I went. Government assistance for those on hard times had been cut or completely denied to some. More talk of slavery and increased taxes… Was this man trying to run this kingdom into the ground?

“How hasn’t his army turned on him yet?” Clara asked us, frowning. “For as monsterous as he sounds, you’d expect the soldiers in the nearby camp wouldn’t be so relaxed and well-behaved. Why hasn’t this camp been wiped out yet?”

“Perhaps he underestimates us. And perhaps he’s lied and manipulated the soldiers…” I sighed, running my hand through my hair and thinking. “I don’t like it. Someone needs to get in, kill’em, and get out. I don’t think we can stand against the whole army.”

“That’s certainly what we’re thinking.” Someone had come up behind us, making all of us jump. “I’m in charge around here- Lucas Samold. Pleasure. I see you’re new- Welcome to the resistance.”

“Thanks for the heart attack,” Clayton muttered.

“We need a newer person for a chance opportunity- The usurper has agreed to meet with one representative of our group. I want someone new, so he may believe he can sway them. I want you to find out what lies and manipulation he’s using, and report back. Who’s in?”

“Gladly,” I answered. “If I get a chance to kill him?”

“If you see a perfect opportunity, take it. I doubt he’ll give you the chance, but certainly try if it presents itself.”

With that, I was stocked up and sent off for the capital. Now, I just had to keep my head… If I did, I might get a chance to save the kingdom.

Marcus sighed, looking over reports. “It breaks my heart so many children were simply left on the street when they were orphaned… So many innocent lives, slipping through the cracks. We must do better, find them foster or adoptive families and ensure they get a good education, good food, and safety. They’re the future of our kingdom, they deserve the best we can offer them.”

“Your are right, my lord. And the tax money redirected from those abusing the assistance system will help ensure as much,” an advisor agreed. “It will only be a stop-gap, I think, until someone thinks they’ve found a loophole with the new assistance rules.”

“There will always be a loophole,” Marcus sighed. “We can’t see what it is now, but someone will find and exploit it. We can’t tighten the rules too much, or those truly in need will slip through the cracks. But I want to get as many of those off the system that are truly able to work and just don’t wish to look for it… I want them to find work, and I want to find a way to provide them opportunities.”

“You are truly honorable and noble, my king,” The advisor smiled, bowing to him.

“I hope the resistance representative feels that way… Otherwise, this may yet all fall to pieces.”

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking Back The Kingdom – Chapter 3

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My travels remained fairly uneventful until I reached a small farming town three days from my last stop. People were gathered in the town square, arguing about some announcement that had been posted. I moved forward to read what it was and frowned.

“What? Executions?” I asked, outraged. “Mass executions? This is just… Just barbaric!”

“There’s a young man with sense!” An old woman agreed, nodding to me with approval. “You best be careful on your travels, boy. It looks like any who cross this new king have a short life ahead of them now.”

“I’m sure there’s a reasonable explanation. We can’t just jump to conclusions,” a middle aged man countered. “He hasn’t really been that bad thus far, minus taxes. And for all we know, those are for a good purpose, right?”

“Likely the ‘good purpose’ of fattening his purse, boy!” the old woman retorted, other elders either nodding their agreement, or shouting it.

“He’s been messing with prices in shops as well. I met a shopkeep three days back who was losing business because of it,” I added to the group. “And he’s fining shops that don’t fall in line. It’s taking people’s livelihoods, it is. I can’t stand it- So I’m on my way to stop him.” These drew some cheers and praise from those arguing against the usurper.

“There’s a good boy! You go help teach this wicked creature that he can’t just come in here and do as he pleases!” The old woman was grinning at me, clearly pleased. “Go on, then son! And here-” She passed me some money. “Take this to help with your travels.”

“Thank you, grandmother, but I couldn’t. I have more than enough to get me through. Please, keep it for you and yours.” With that, and a smile and wave, I went on my way.

Despite my smile for the people, however, I was troubled. How could the king order mass executions? It had never been done in the history of the kingdom, even with the worst of our monarchs. The worst year for executions still only saw 10, and that for the worst traitors of the kingdom.

Who was he executing? Former nobles who would not support him? Commoners who caused trouble? A mixture of both? Perhaps it was officials that he had replaced with his own people. He may have needed them out of the way so that people could not rise behind them. Even locked up, people could unite under the idea that they could free those that previously had power and put them back in control.

Trying to guess the motives of a monster was only going to distract me from the road. Regardless of his reasons, it was not going to help his cause. If anything, it was only going to make it easier for me and others like me to get him off the throne. I could see our homeland returning to normal in the near future, if he continued at this rate.

Marcus looked over the newest recruits to the army as they stood before him. He frowned, seeing that many of them looked uneasy. “Why do so many of my new soldiers look discomforted?” He asked his advisor quietly.

“They have it in their heads that this is a forced recruitment, and they were required to join up. Nothing the recruiters said convinced them otherwise. It appears that people are beginning to fear you, your majesty,” the man replied in a near whisper. Marcus sighed, looking over the troops.

“We are not at war, nor in urgent need of new troops. Nervous soldiers right now will not be worth our time.” Marcus moved forward, looking at the group before him. “Those of you who do not wish to be here, you are dismissed. This is not a mandatory recruitment, regardless of gossip. We are not at war, and we are in no urgent need of the man power. We simply wish to make sure any who wish to train have the time to do so, should trouble arise. 

“In this time of unrest, those at our borders may see us as weak and vulnerable. We simply want to be ready, should one of them decide that our kingdom is an easy target.” Marcus paused, smirking slightly. “We will prove to be otherwise, of course. Our military has always been strong and proud, and it remains such to this day. Now… Those who still wish to train, please wait here for the training masters to come and give you instructions. Those who wish to go home, please do so. I wish you safe travels, and good fortune.”

As Marcus turned to leave, his advisor following, small murmurs ran through the recruits. No one left before the training masters came to them, nor did they look anxious anymore.

Stories, Taking Back the Kingdom

Taking back the kingdom – Chapter 2

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It was two days of walking before I arrived at the nearest town. While I still had plenty of food and water, thanks to Pa, I hadn’t quite brought enough supplies to keep clean with. My clothes were starting to look pretty filthy, and I figured it was time to stop by a shop to pick up a couple additional things.

It didn’t take long to find the town’s shop. A brightly painted sign pointed the way, though not a lot of customers seemed to be coming and going at the moment. Heading inside to look around, I noticed that the shop was neat and tidy, with inventory displayed on well-crafted wooden tables and shelves. 

What was odd, however, was the abundance of goods for what looked to be a well-off shop. Most shops that were popular enough to have such nice displays and beautiful signs had trouble keeping the shelves stocked throughout the day, due to the abundance of customers.

And where were the customers? At this time of day, nearing noon, a shop like this should have been packed. I shouldn’t have been able to hear myself think for the noise of haggling. Yet, there wasn’t a soul here save myself and the shopkeep, who watched me hopefully.

I shook off the shock of the situation and went about grabbing supplies, heading to the counter with it. “Good day, sir.”

“Good day to you,” The shopkeep smiled. “It’s good to have a customer again.” He went through my items as I frowned.

“This looks like a popular shop, what would make custom fall so much you would say that?”

“The damned taxes, for one. People have less money to spend. Then, one of his fancy new ‘inspectors’ came to have a look at the shop, and we got hit with a large fine for a law no one’s ever even bothered with! We aren’t allowed to mark prices up for tourists. You know how the monarchy is, they didn’t really actually care as long as you paid the proper taxes on it. But then here comes this new fella, and he starts enforcing that old, foolish law! Says prices are meant to be equal to all, no matter where they’re from. But that’s the only way small shops can stay in business- My shop will survive, we’re the only one in town. But small shops in big towns? How will they fair, not being able to mark up prices to tourists? Where’ll they get that income?”

“He’s messing with the natural flow of everything, isn’t he? Higher taxes, messing with the practices of every shop in the land- And not everyone will be fined, I bet. He’s likely going to ‘make examples’ of certain shops, just to get a handle on it. Just wants to control people, I think,” I grumbled. “Well, don’t you worry. I’m on my way to try to help get the rightful queen back on the throne, and get rid of this imposter.”

“Good on ya, son. I just had a couple people pass through last week, talkin’ bout the same. That was the day before the fine hit.” The man sighed, accepting my payment and going back to his work. “Have a safe trip.” I gave a nod and a wave, collecting my goods and heading out.

—————–

“Sire, our latest reports,” A young woman said, coming into the study Marcus used and handing him a sheaf of papers. “While your changes are taking hold… There are dissenters…” She watched as Marcus scanned through the papers.

“Ah, I see… A small force gathering, eh?” He asked, sighing. “That’s what has you concerned, Olivia. Well… I guess we’ll just have to take emergency measures. Prepare the Guard, but do not have them march yet. Have this group watched for now, and report on them every two days for the time being. From there, we will decide what to do. Understood?”

“Yes, sire, of course.” With a small frown, Olivia bowed and went off to do as she had been ordered. Marcus sighed and turned to look out a window.

“Time to see which way this whole thing will fall…”