Machinations
Radittsu strode into Guard HQ, only to stop dead at the door to his office. He glowered at the figure seated at the desk, growling quietly.
Hijau.
"You were offworld. Why are you back?"
The flame-maned male rose to his feet and saluted, his angular face carefully neutral.
"I requested a new posting."
"When do you go back?"
"I don't..." Hijau sighed and relaxed fractionally. "Rad-san... The king has appointed me your second in command."
Radittsu snarled. "I don't need a second in command! And I certainly don't need you."
"Rad..."
"I made my feelings absolutely fucking clear. I don't forgive betrayal."
"I didn't..."
The captain stepped forward, looming over his new second in command. Hijau stood his ground, Radittsu's much-loved smoky scent evoking so many memories...
"She betrayed us both. You know that, in your heart." He fixed deep green eyes on his captain's angry face. "Do you really think I would have jeopardised what we had? Do you?"
The captain was silent for a moment, remembering the life he and Hijau had shared, remembering the red-maned female who had come between them, sowing doubt and distrust... How had she done that? He and Hijau had been practically bond-mates; how had she managed to separate them? He admitted to himself he'd not given it much thought. The hurt he'd felt at what he'd believed to be Hijau's disloyalty had soured his life, his relationships with everyone around him, for years, and led to Hijau joining the offworld military just to keep the peace. Radittsu hadn't wanted to think about it, had almost managed to forget about the whole sordid affair until confronted by Leteetza, whose mane was almost the same colour as Cendawan's...
He growled to himself. He'd need to consider this later. For now, if the Saiya-jin-no-Ou had appointed Hijau his second, he'd have to submit. And he'd better do it with a good grace, if they were to work together with any degree of unity.
"We'll talk later. Report."
Hijau eyed his captain warily. His report had been given with speed and efficiency. He'd handled matters well while Radittsu had been offworld, although admittedly everything had been pretty much routine, and barring a couple of disciplinary matters - which were in any case the Guard captain's responsibility - Radittsu had nothing to complain about, much as he had tried to find reason to do so.
"There's the small matter of the terrible twins, sir..."
Radittsu stared at him, one eyebrow raised. "These would be Anzu's brats?"
Hijau nodded. "Lady Sheftali and Lady Kayusu. Not that there's anything ladylike about the spoilt little bitches..."
The captain sighed. "Very well. Let's hear the worst."
Hijau detailed the subtle flirtations the twins had engaged in with various members of the Elite Guard - and the not so subtle insults they had thrown at Leteetza, Apyo and - Hijau gritted his teeth - Radittsu himself. The captain frowned.
"What did they say?"
"They, uh, commented on your - relationship - with the prince, sir. Rather crudely and nastily. Suggesting a variety of improbable and unlikely reasons for it. And that you indulge in some unsavoury, if not actually impossible, physical activities."
Radittsu smiled at the delicacy of Hijau's terminology, although the smile was not one of amusement. "Did they indeed... I assume none of this took place in the King's hearing?"
"No, they're always very careful not to let him hear them."
The captain nodded. "I see. Well, I was simply going to leave the R'ren'nkh'ian report for Vejiita, but perhaps I ought to deliver it to him personally."
"They'll be somewhere near him..."
"I'm counting on it. I want to meet them."
Vejiita was in his public office, discussing offworld trade policy with a couple of members of the diplomatic corps and several aides, when Radittsu arrived. At least he's not neglecting his official duties, the captain thought as he sank to one knee.
"Sire."
"Radittsu." Vejiita nodded once in acknowledgement and gestured for him to rise. He placed the R'ren'nkh'ian data chip on the King's desk, then stood at attention before him. The King leaned back in his seat and gazed up at the big male.
"I understand that you were successful: Zha'geekaan is already planning his coronation as High King. I suppose I will need to be present. The Guard will of course accompany me."
Radittsu carefully kept his face and voice neutral. "When will that be, sire?"
Vejiita shrugged. "We have no firm details. I assume it will take some time to organise, regardless of how eager as he is for the position to be ratified. Why?"
"I am owed leave. I wish to take Zha'haabron away for a while."
An expression of mixed annoyance and commiseration settled on the King's face. "Ah, yes. I heard what happened. You have my sympathy, both of you. How is he?"
"As well as can be expected. It will be some time before he's up to sparring."
Vejiita nodded, the annoyance taking over. "A nuisance. Keep me advised. How long are you planning to be away?"
As long as possible! "About twenty-five days."
"You've left orders with the Guard?"
"Everything's in hand, sire."
"Very well. Make sure you can be contacted if necessary."
Radittsu inclined his head. "Sire."
Vejiita nodded - then his eyes focussed past the captain, towards the door. His expression softened into a smile: the quickly-suppressed annoyance on the faces of the others in the office was not lost on Radittsu.
"Can we come in, my lord?" It was a sweet voice, high and almost childish. Vejiita beckoned, and Radittsu glanced over one shoulder as the twins entered the room.
Well, I suppose they're pretty enough, in a soft Southern way. Weak little things, though. I could break them in two with a breath. The taller of the two moved to stand behind Vejiita, resting her hands on his shoulders - the other stood in front of Radittsu, staring up into his face. Smirking insolently, unseen by the King. It rather spoiled the sweet and innocent effect.
"So who's this big, strong warrior?"
"Radittsu, captain of my Elite Guard."
"Oh! You're Radittsu! We've heard lots about you. Is the prince with you?"
The captain bowed his head briefly. "The prince was injured on R'ren'nkh'ia. He is recovering."
"Oh, the poor thing!" She turned to Vejiita, her expression suddenly all compassion. "Could we go and see him? We might be able to cheer him up."
Credit where it's due, thought Radittsu - Vejiita looked to the captain for a response instead of simply saying yes to the girl. The big male shook his head.
"Your pardon, sire, but he really isn't fit enough to receive visitors right now." And there's no way I'm letting these little harpies near him until he is!
Vejiita nodded acceptance and smiled at the twin.
"Perhaps later, Tali-chan."
She pouted, but wisely didn't argue. Vejiita regarded Radittsu evenly.
"Is there anything else?"
"No, sire."
"Very well. I trust your holiday will be enjoyable."
Radittsu bowed deeply. "Thank you, sire."
He was no more than ten paces down the corridor when the door burst open and the twins were on him, one to each arm. He stopped and stared down, frowning. The one Vejiita had called Tali-chan grinned up at him maliciously.
"We thought we'd walk you back to your quarters."
Her sister giggled. "It'll do your reputation no end of good to be seen with us."
"Oh, but, Kayu-koi, everyone knows he's in love with a snake."
"No, no, Tali-koi! It's a lizard, not a snake. Snakes don't have legs or arms. And they lay eggs. This one doesn't lay eggs. In fact, he's pregnant now, isn't he?" She smirked up at Radittsu. "Is it yours?"
"Kayu-koi, don't be silly. Radi-san here can't be a daddy. He hasn't got the balls for it. That's why he's with a lizard instead of one of his own kind." She sneered up at the captain. "You wouldn't know what to do with a female, would you?"
Radittsu switched his gaze slowly from one to the other, almost amused. He smiled.
"Why would I want one? Prince Zha'haabron is the best of all possible worlds. He's sophisticated, intelligent, strong, courteous, and far more beautiful than any female I've ever met." He grinned to himself as the little faces tightened with anger. That hit home! They glanced at each other and as one grabbed a hank of his mane each and yanked, hard. Radittsu hardly felt it.
"I hear he eats rats. Do you eat rats too?"
He shook his head, sighing. "Ladies, interesting as this conversation is, I really must be going."
"You can't! We're still talking to you!"
"Nevertheless, I have to leave."
"Can't your pet lizard survive without you for half an hour?"
Radittsu shook his head, refusing to be drawn. Ye gods, what did their childish little minds think he was, an idiot or something?
"I have duties to attend to. As for Zha'haabron, much as I know you'd love to meet his highness, he really isn't well enough at the moment. But I'm sure, once he's recovered and fit to spar with Vejiita again, the King will introduce you to him. They're quite good friends."
He smirked as Sheftali scowled. Her sister gripped the captain's arm above his wristguard and sank sharp little nails into his flesh.
"The King's Companion thought she was a 'good friend' too. And look what happened to her!"
Radittsu inconspicuously clenched his teeth and took a slow breath. I will not let them rile me. I will not get into an argument. It will serve no purpose. I will just say goodbye and get back to the prince. I have preparations to make... He gently pulled away from the twins and bowed slightly: Sheftali grabbed his elbow and refused to let go.
This is ridiculous! How am I going to get rid of the little pests? Ah...
"If I can't persuade you to allow me to go about my business, no doubt Vejiita will. Allow me to escort you back to the King."
Sheftali let go hurriedly, glaring at him. "You wouldn't dare!"
He frowned. "I have already said I have duties to attend to, none of which involve yourselves. I would prefer not to be hindered in the performance of them."
"Duties to your lizard lover, I bet!"
Since that was in fact partly true, Radittsu remained silent. Sheftali frowned at her sister, then her face broke into a sly grin.
"Oh, very well. We have things to do, too. I expect we'll see you soon."
Not if I can possibly help it! He inclined his head and made to leave, then stopped dead and gasped in pain as Kayusu wrapped her small hand around his tail and squeezed, digging in her nails and giggling. Hurting and finally pushed to anger, Radittsu grabbed her wrist and disentangled her fingers.
"Don't be so bloody childish! You need spanking, both of you!"
Kayusu smirked maliciously. "Save it for your lizard. I don't think Vejiita would take kindly to us being hurt in any way. He thinks we're wonderful."
Radittsu glowered at her. "Each to their own. Personally, I've seen better behaved six-year olds amongst my own kin. But I suppose children are raised differently in the South. Ah well." He smiled into their shocked, angry faces and inclined his head. "You will excuse me."
As he strode away he heard Kayusu mutter angrily, "You'll regret that..."
He was irritable and a little anxious by the time he arrived back at the suite, his tail stinging where Kayusu's nails had broken the skin, his composure awry. He'd taken a real chance, not knowing how deeply Vejiita felt for the twins. But he couldn't see them managing to keep up their façade of innocent playfulness forever. And somehow he really couldn't believe that the King could be serious about them...
If he was wrong, however... He swallowed nervously.
**Beloved?**
He sighed and prowled through to the bedchamber. Zha'haabron was pushing himself upright, grimacing with pain: Radittsu hastened to help him, holding him as he slowly and carefully eased himself into a sitting position.
*You should be asleep!*
The prince regarded him gravely. **I have slept for long enough. What has happened? What's wrong?**
The Saiyan smiled. *Why should anything be wrong?*
Zha'haabron scowled. **I know something has happened. I would be happier if you would tell me what it is**
Radittsu frowned to himself. Since they'd left Vejiitasei for R'ren'nkh'ia his bondmate had been growing more and more sensitive to his thoughts, his feelings, the bond intensifying. It worried him a little. His mental control was far less efficient than Zha'haabron's: it would be painful for the prince if he was ever really hurt...
He sighed. *I had a run-in with the twins.*
Golden eyes narrowed. **And you did not enjoy it**
*They're a pair of extremely unpleasant, spoilt little egotists who think they have the King wrapped around their fingers. They put on a great act in front of him.* He frowned. *I can't understand their behaviour...* He fell silent for a moment, thinking. Zha'haabron nestled back in his arms and watched his face.
*The only thing I can think is that they're expecting Vejiita to take one or both of them as mates. If I remember Southern customs correctly, if that happened he'd be stuck with them then, regardless of later circumstances... But Vejiita doesn't subscribe to Southern customs... I'll bet they don't know that!*
He grinned widely, gazing at the prince. *If he claimed them but didn't allow himself to be claimed - which is most likely what he'd do - and they later showed themselves to be other than what he was led to believe, he could rescind the agreement. They'd still be his, but little better than concubines!*
**Would he do that?**
Radittsu kissed his bondmate's cheek. *Oh yes.* Then he sobered. *At least, I think he would...* He sighed. *Oh hell, has anyone ever been able to predict what Vejiita will do? Maybe I'm wrong.* He frowned, then shrugged. *Well, no doubt time will tell...*
Zha'haabron hugged him. **I would like to learn about your customs. I was unaware that they differed between continents**
*Between different parts of the same continent, sometimes. Well, I can tell you a lot about the North, and some about the South and the Islands. Whether Leteetza knows about the rest I couldn't say. But if she does, I'm sure she'd be happy to talk to you.*
**I will ask her** He stroked his bondmate's face. **How soon can we be on our way?**
Radittsu grinned and kissed his cheek. *You're eager! Well, so am I. Someone's packed for you?*
**Zh'anah and my aide**
*I'll only take a few minutes. But Leteetza's visiting this evening: I asked her to make up a salve to help you heal inside.*
**I can most certainly wait until then!**
*Good...*
Radittsu was in a plain black bodysuit and boots when I arrived, armourless and wearing silver studded black leather wristcuffs. Zha'haabron was looking a little better, marginally less tired, the bruises and scratches fading, and I could feel a very slight increase in his ki. He was curled up sideways in a chair in a sleeveless black fur bodysuit, open right down the front since it was a warm evening. I grinned at the sight they made.
"You two are just gorgeous!"
Radittsu blushed slightly: I laughed and hugged him, then moved to lay a hand on the prince's arm.
"I made up something I think will help you."
He smiled and carefully reached to pull me into a hug. Startled, I wrapped my arms around his broad shoulders and hugged back - then gently pulled away and handed him the jar of analgesic salve. He regarded it curiously.
"It'll work really quickly. It heals torn tissue, and has a mild anaesthetic effect. And it doesn't sting." I frowned. "Uh, well it doesn't sting Saiyans, anyway..."
"I'm sure it will serve the purpose admirably. Thank you."
I could feel my cheeks reddening. "You're welcome!"
Radittsu handed me a data chip before I could get too emotional. "This has all the details you'll need - location, contact addresses, even the nearest local facilities. Just let us know when you'll be arriving and I'll come and meet you. Is anyone coming with you?"
"I don't know yet: I haven't really had time to think about it. Is that a problem?"
"Of course not." He grinned. "When you arrive, we'll fly from the nearest shuttle station. It's a beautiful trip. You'll enjoy it."
I grinned back. "I'm sure I will. You two have a good time, now. I'll see you as soon as I can."
As I readied myself to leave, a hurried knock came on the door. Radittsu frowned, then called, "Come."
Apyo stuck his head around the door, expression anxious, and entered the antechamber hastily, glancing back as if expecting he'd been followed. He stood before his captain and saluted briefly.
"I'm sorry to burst in on you like this, sir, but you've got to go right now..."
Radittsu stared for just a moment, then turned to Zh'anah.
"Get Zh'leet and the last of the luggage to the shuttle. Quickly as you can." As she hastened to comply he swung his attention back to the young officer. "What's happened?"
Apyo shook his head. "Sir, I don't know what you did to upset them, but those obnoxious brats have talked Vejiita into appointing you their personal bodyguard. Kyuri's been detailed to collect you - you're supposed to take up the post right away."
Radittsu rolled his eyes. "But you thought you'd get here first and warn me..."
Apyo nodded. "Well, Kyuri's not happy about it either, and gave me a head start - but if you're still here by the time she arrives..."
Radittsu grinned and slapped the young officer's back, then turned and gathered Zha'haabron into his arms, speaking over his shoulder. "Thanks, friend. Now, do you think you could conveniently lose my address?"
Apyo chuckled. "I'll do my best, sir." He glanced almost shyly at the prince, ducking his head briefly. "Highness. You have all our best wishes."
Zha'haabron raised an eyebrow in surprise. "My thanks..."
"Now you must go. Enjoy your holiday!" His gaze flickered between the bondmates as he flashed a somewhat cheeky grin. Radittsu scowled, but his eyes were smiling.
"We'll discuss discipline when I return..."
Apyo pulled himself to attention and saluted, winking at me. "Yes sir!"
I held the door for Radittsu as he carried Zha'haabron from their suite and hurried away to the shuttle port.
As we left the suite Apyo turned to me, frowning.
"How are things with you, little warrior?"
I forced a half-smile. "Still the same."
"Have you spoken to him?"
I sighed irritably. "I can't get near him! Not that I'd particularly want to, since they seem to be glued to him.
"And - in yourself?" He spoke hesitantly, flushing slightly.
"I manage." In fact, when I got desperate, I spent the night with Tamata, whose on-again-off-again relationship with Kakarotto was mostly off right now. She felt guilty, since it had been mostly her fault I was in this situation, and was more than happy to help out if I needed it.
He paused and laid a hand on my shoulder. "You know any one of us would be proud to help, if we could..."
I touched the scar on my neck. "...but you daren't. That's fine. But thanks anyway."
We both looked up as Kyuri appeared around the corner, moving rather more slowly than normal. As she caught sight of us she raised an eyebrow very slightly: Apyo nodded fractionally in response, then saluted as the officer picked up her pace and marched smartly along the corridor.
Apyo grinned at me and shook his head. "I'm sure this is mutiny or treason or something equally reprehensible," he muttered quietly. "But our captain deserves his leave. He's worked bloody hard for it. And it'll do his highness good, too." He glanced at me, his eyes gleaming. "Cute couple, aren't they?"
I chuckled and nudged him in the ribs. "I know you're all fascinated by the pair of them but it's not my place to tell tales. If Radittsu wants you to know anything, he'll tell you himself."
He grinned. "You can't blame me for trying!"
Radittsu and Zha'haabron had been gone for four days, and I'd been working flat out on the diplomatic corps project - to do with the political ramifications of the recent military coup on Katsusei, important but hardly inspiring stuff - trying to finish so I could join them as soon as possible. I'd hardly moved from the office I'd been allocated in the Offworld Embassy, except for one sparring session with Apyo. I estimated I had about another three days worth of work and the project - my part of it anyway - would be done.
I couldn't wait.
I'd still heard nothing from Vejiita: by now I'd almost given up on him. I gathered, from bits of conversation I overheard (no one would talk to me directly about it - trying to spare my feelings I guessed) that it seemed likely that some sort of official announcement about Vejiita and the twins was in the offing. From what I'd heard this was not going to be one of the King's more popular decisions: it was amazing how many people the twins had managed to annoy or upset. I wondered, idly, how they'd turned out that way. Youthful overconfidence and a pampered upbringing accounted for some of it, of course, but they also seemed to have a basically malicious, nasty streak to their characters. I couldn't understand why Vejiita couldn't see it - he's hardly stupid. But maybe he'd finally fallen in love...
If so, I was almost glad I was out of the picture. Would I really want to be associated with someone of such questionable taste?
I sighed and rubbed my eyes, and took a quick break. I'd scanned the data chip Radittsu had given me, and the place looked absolutely beautiful - a long, low dwelling built on and partially into a hollow in a great sweep of high hills covered in ancient forest. It faced south, and looked out over a vast lake on the valley floor below. The house itself was solidly built and spacious, and was apparently some kind of ancestral dwelling: it had been in the family for generations and was still considered the family home, although it was mostly just used for holidays, retreats and breaks these days. It was a good hour's flight from the nearest town. And the forests were rich in game. I could lose myself there for days, recover my equilibrium, decide what I wanted to do with my future...
It was going to be a good holiday.
But of course nothing ever goes that smoothly. First Manzano requested some additional information on Katsusei's class-system, which took me a day to research, then one of the military leaders got himself assassinated, which led to an internal power-struggle that upset all of my carefully calculated conclusions and predictions. And then the Fendar-jin (Katsusei's next door neighbours, astronomically speaking) decided to declare war on the planet. Finally, twelve days after starting the bloody thing, I'd finished the project. Manzano was delighted. I was just tired.
"Enjoy your rest, my lady. Come back to us refreshed and revitalised!"
I'd nodded wearily as he left the room and sat back for a moment, rubbing my closed eyes and allowing myself to relax. Then I felt that oh-so-familiar ki...
Vejiita was standing in front of my desk. Alone. Arms folded across his chest. His scowl the blackest I'd ever seen it. We stared at each other for a moment, then he growled, "Why have you been avoiding me?"
© 2001 (April 4th) Joules Taylor
