|
Post by Lute on Jan 29, 2019 21:33:52 GMT -5
The Demon King WC: 1,129 | TWC: 6,515 TAGS: Queen Kuueru , Doctor Kaijin Vex , Emperor Absolut The ceremony ended, but the congregation did not. Many gathered around, discussing the coronation and the future of the Empire. Absolut was greeted by various important senate members and political figures, congratulating him. But, their smiles and words were barely subtle, and dripped with a venom.
The good thing--there wasn't any mass hysteria at the announcement of the new Emperor's coronation. Lute had already decided that he would make it a point to ensure no one pulled anything. He could already see the dissent in the eyes of the Ultramarine's upper echelons, those who were invited to watch the event and stand in attention afterward. They wore their formal attire, and stood in orderly rows. Their faces betrayed no emotion, they were the epitome of discipline. But, still he could feel it. Call it a demonic intuition--malice was almost a taste on his tongue. One like sulfur and rotten meat.
The marines' eyes lingered on Absolut and his mother a bit too long. Their sidebar conversations were in hushed tones and whispers that even Lute's keen ears couldn't make out. These were Polaris's men after all. He had earned their loyalty, by combat prowess and fighting along side them. Neither his wife, nor his son had done the same. He imagined there would be a good number of resignations after this was over. That was fine. For now, the Demon King just needed the former scum to behave themselves. The ceremony had to go on without a hitch, without a quip of protest or inkling that there was disagreement in the upper echelon's of the government.
Lute wasn't one for conversation, he was a man of action. Since becoming a subordinate and ally of the former Emperor, he hadn't had much interaction with these political figures. This wasn't his element whatsoever.
Lute was required to explain himself, to more than a few planetary governors and delegates. At first he did so kind and cordial, but after two or three his frustration was mounting. They heard that he had brought the boy to Mitra. They asked why he didn't assume the throne, or why another more loyal subject wasn't made Regent. Polaris's wife was not popular among these folks. Maybe they knew, from conversation or rumor, that she disagreed with Polaris's methods. Down the grape vine, word had spread that she a sympathized with the handful of resistances plaguing the Empire's fringes.
They already knew that to bypass the "extreme" political views of Eis, they would have to get the good side of Absolut--or at least intimidate him. These games were tiresome and Lute wanted to grab Absolut by the collar and take him off into a gravity chamber. The young ruler needed to start training, right away. There was no way he could be as weak as he was any longer. There were Patrolmen and Ultramarines that could defeat him, if they wanted to.
A bulbous xeno delegate in a too tight suit sauntered over. A single button held his jacket closed and Lute wondered if it was going to pop off and hit someone in the eye. He pretended to walk away and ignore the bastard, but was followed and tapped on the arm.
The Demon King froze, his fingers twitching. He swallowed his rage. He couldn't believe that the obese slabdared to touch him. He half turned, glaring over his caped shoulder.
"I want to understand why Absolut was crowned," the delgate said, lacing his stubby fingers together and resting them on his rotund belly.
"Polaris named his son Emperor, and thus he is Emperor. The boy is inexperienced, so his Mother will assist in the Regency."
"Did you not think about the repercussions, Demon King?"
"Yes."
"And you thought that this was best course of action."
"Yes."
"That is preposterous, the flames of insolence will burn ever hotter with Eis in charge. We will not stand for her if she chooses to dismantle the peace and prosperity Polaris built. This Empir--"
"She won't," Lute lied, through his fanged teeth.
"H-How do you know that?"
Lute shot the man a glare, one that clearly said back off or I will kill you. The xeno's chubby face paled and he stepped back. But, as he looked around at the hall filled with important imperials, he seemed to gain some resolve and straighten up. It was like a little child on the playground, standing up to a bully.
"You are sorely--aghh"
Lute snatched the delegate by the collar, scooping him up so they were level--face to face and eye to eye. "I gave Emperor Polaris my word, I served him and now I serve his son. Now.. leave. me. alone."
And he tossed the xeno delegate onto his ass. The man let loose a loud and over-dramatic shriek, one that ripped across the hall. Every single eye fell on the Demon King, faces were aghast and horrified at such a barbaric act.
Lute gave Absolut an apologetic look,turned and strode out of the room. On his way out he used his telekinetic powers to rip the decorated metal doors open. They shrieked as their gears and machinations were bent and twisted back without proper activation.
Lute wasn't often embarrassed, but this was the exception. Demonic power swirled and surged through his veins. He felt his lungs rising and falling as he fought back the urge destroy Mitra, to kill everyone in sight. Both irises gleamed with bright scarlet and his wicked aura began to seep out of his pores like insipid black smoke. It was a good thing he turned the corner out of sight. There he rested his back against the wall and simply breathed, relaxing his body and mind the best he could. Yet, it felt like throwing water on an oil fire. This was the first time since he had begun to siphon Hollow's vast troves of dark energy itno his body that it had overwhelmed him. He felt unhinged, out of control--berserk.
This wasn't the composed and silent assassin he had once been. This wasn't the studious learner, the patient magician, this wasn't Lute. Yet, he had grafted this power onto himself to face the gods. To slay them once and for all? But--was it enough?
He spoke to Kuueru, linking up via telepathy. I made an ass out of myself, didn't I?
There was a long pause and he continued. When this all settles down, I think you should take the throne of Hollow, become its Queen. You do far better than I do dealing with these... insects. I am only going to make things worse. I'll dedicate myself to being Absolut's mentor and enforcer, if need be."
|
|
|
Post by Queen Kuueru on Jan 30, 2019 10:55:11 GMT -5
ICE COLD Even after the ceremony marking the new leader of the Galactic Empire was over, there were scattered voices filling the air. It was mildly uncomfortable, Kuueru tried her best to keep her attention on the task at hand. That was, making sure Absolut and his mother Eis were protected form any threats to their newly formed appointment. Still, despite whispers of concern, and threats of resignations, there weren't any physical threats presenting themselves today. All of that did not matter much to the demoness. She was here as a duty to her empire, her mentor Lute, and to her colleagues. She was unsure of how the young Emperor was handling all of the stress and nuances that accompanied such a time. Kaijin Vex, who quickly resigned after their last meeting was somewhere. She couldn't spot him right away with the cluster of people, and it wasn't like she could sense him either. Still, she saw Lute, she heard his words, and she witnessed this crowning moment. All that she could hope for now was that time would heal the wounds and resistance to change that the people felt. There was a lot of change in store for the people here as well as those planets that wavered under the Empire's banner. Hopefully the shifts that Eis makes will benefit the galaxy, perhaps she will rule with a lighter hand that Polaris? There were so many uncertainties that only time would predict, alas, Kuueru had prepared herself mentally. She was a demon after all, they were used to chaos and shifts of power on a whim. In her realm it was based on power. Those at the top, those who won battles, and those who proved themselves were the leaders of the people. That being said, there were many quarrels, no democracy, and changes happened almost daily. They were primal like animals, yet it worked for their race. Hopefully democracy would prove fruitful with the Empire. Hopefully the Galactic Patrol would suit Absolut well. There were so many hopes, alas, they couldn't all come true, could they? Well, that was until a rather rotund xeno made his way to the Demon King. His grimy fingers touched the Namekian, insulting his judgement, decisions, and knowledge of the consequences. Ironically, it was Lute who had brought up these very counterarguments to Eis in the days prior, now even he was facing the opposition. Kuueru knitted her brows in frustration and stood guard by not only the boy and his mother, but her Ultramarines which seemed to think their voices couldn't be heard by her. She turned on her heel, shooting a malice filled gaze at the mass of them. It would simply state that she wouldn't be putting up with their bullshit today, nor ever. If these soldiers had a problem with the appointment, Kuueru's methods, or Eis's ideals, they were welcome to leave, and with it, leave their pensions behind. Her attention shifted towards the Namekian, whose patience was growing less and less by the moment. Each question this xeno delegate blundered out caused a shift in the feelings Lute was giving off. Kuueru sighed, praying that Lute would keep his cool, the last thing they needed was a thought that there was some magnificently strong Demon King annihilating all those who opposed. Alas, it was much too late. Lute picked up the delegate and sent him onto his ass. Kuueru covered her face with her hand, her ears splitting from the sound of the shriek that followed. Her shoulders slumped, and Lute made his escape. After all, the ceremony was over, he could now retire back to wherever he wanted to head. That wasn't until his voice entered her head. Normally, she wouldn't expect the man to care much about the repercussions of his actions, but this time, he asked her if he made an ass out of himself. She chuckled, her mind connecting back with his telepathically. 'Probably, but I'm surprised you're even worried about it. Don't worry, we can handle Hollow and it's business later. I'll do my best to maintain the planet, it's economics, and the people; all while juggling my duties with the Empire. I should be busy eh? No time to be causing issues in the galaxy or killing gods huh?' Kuueru retorted her lavender eyes glaring at the ground. 'Keep your mind straight.' Kuueru spoke. Soon the crowds would likely disperse, and with them, Kuueru would leave as well. She would return to Hollow, assume the crown as a queen, and lead the people as Lute did. Still, she wasn't sure why Lute gave up his mantle just yet. Simply not being a decent leader didn't make too much sense to the demoness. Alas, those were words for another time. If he truly thought that Absolut needed his fully dedicated attention, then so be it. She was sure that the young frost demon would probably need some guidance from her as well. She was here, for the people of Hollow, and for the people of the United Species. Demon or not. This was her new calling. This was the path of a demon who turned her path on chaos.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Absolut on Jan 30, 2019 16:55:44 GMT -5
The Emperor of the Galaxy @tag, NOTES
"Congratulations on assuming your righful throne, Your Majesty! My name is ..., I know your father from here or there and I hope to serve you just as loyally."
"Welcome to Mitra, Your Majesty - I am ... and I have known your father in person. I hope that our relationship can be just as warm"
"I am known as ..., Your Majesty, and I am important to the machinery of the Empire this, this and this way. Me and your father have held the greatest respect for each other and I hope this relationship can continue with his son..."
These and many similar questions bombarded Absolut as the spectators of the coronation dispersed into one unorganized crowd. Needless to say, all of the people gathered here sought to no end to meet their new overlord in person, shake his hand and get to know the first impression of who they will be dealing with from now on. Absolut could not say that he understood much of what these people informed him. When they listed their positions in the Galactic Empire, trying to weave the impression that they are a big deal in the entity and the Emperor should learn to respect their talents, Absolut would simply respond with a polite nod and a similarly polite response, usually a thank you or a "Nice to meet you too, sir" which his mother taught him.
Meeting Kuueru, one of the main leaders of the Ultramarines, gave the young Emperor a false impressions that the rest of the Ultramarines were generally friendly and not something to be intimidated by. Completely opposite. All of the major leaders of the organization who came to greet him in the aftermath of the coronation looked stern, intimidating, introduced themselves laconically, and strong enough to snap the Frost Demon like a twig if the need came be. Their voice, the way they acted and they looked did not provide any proof that they would not, either. Even Absolut could tell that these people weren't too happy with meeting the Emperor face to face. On the other hand, the members of the civilian leadership of the Empire, be it governors, bureaucrats or senators, were almost the complete opposite - few of them looked like they could hold much of a fight in a battle, but had a lot easier way with words. They poke eloquently, they always referred to themselves with their title attached to drive the point that they are supposed to be a big deal. Again, Absolut couldn't exactly recognize their self worth when he little, if any, knowledge about what those titles and positions mean, and merely went along politely, but at least it was slightly more comfortable talking to them. At least he didn't have to be on edge all the time.
His mother, on the other hand, stayed at the back of the throne room, standing next to the gilded and encrusted seat and viewing over the room with a passing glance. More than a few times, one or more visitors of the coronation invited her to have a personal talk, but every single time, the soon to be Regent declined the offer. She knew very well what that would entail. Politics talk. And not very pleasant politics talk, either. That was something the Demon King was completely correct on - far from everyone in the Empire would prefer her assuming power over the nation's affairs, and they would certainly want to express that dismay directly in Eis's face.
She'd much rather worry about that later, where there is no chance of her son stumbling upon her while in fury, or frustration. After she manages to get a few allies among this entire echelon to give her a little bit more of a backbone when dealing with the dissidents. Deters any coup attempts from the dissatisfied officers. Maybe the Leviathans could lend their help on that, intimidate or eliminate the opposition to make her job easier...
God, that's what Polaris would do... Why am I already starting to think just like him?..
"There is frustration, anger and dismay in the air. But I can also register plotting, and maybe even hope." a voice next to Eis suddenly spoke. Turning to the source, Polaris's widow witnessed the hologram of an attractive Frost Demon woman in a long black dress standing besides her. It was 1-CE, the artificial intelligence floating in Mitra's computer network and one of the interim leaders of the Empire before Absolut's arrival, a "regent", if you will. The fact that this nation has had a regency for a regency really speaks well about its stability, doesn't it?
"Well, I've already assumed the latter..." the Regent replied. "But what do you mean by the latter? Where do you find hope?"
"Unfortunately, my Regent, it is most likely not the type of hope you seek," the artificial intelligence answered, her arms folded and the eyes of the hologram staring into the crowd below. "The facial expressions and manners of the people below, the way they present themselves to your son, and the conversations they have in between, they all don't even try to hide the plot which may be developing behind all of our backs. Living lifeforms have this tendency to pretty much give away everything about them if one has a large enough database on the clues, and I have been collecting them for over a year."
Eis's eyes continued to focus on the lifelike hologram as 1-CE moved on with the explanation:
"It is a tendency within totalitarian governments, such as the one your husband had concocted, to start out with the ultimate power in the state concentrated within the unquestionable individual, but then, upon the death of the charismatic leader, be it revolutionary, reactionary or anything in between, for that power descend to the hands of an oligarchy formed from the bureaucracy and officers who had once unquestionably listened to their sovereign. I believe that we are seeing the first vestiges of such a process taking place today. The commanders and politicians who had once been Polaris's puppets and loyal followers now wish to take charge and spread their own ambitions, and in your son, they seen the potential for a weak, impressionable ruler, who will not be able to summon the same charisma and prestige as his father had and would thus be reduced to a pretty face for them to work behind.
In such a situation, you, my Regent, and your agenda is a hurdle they will want to suppress. Because, as historical data shows, when the oligarchy of a totalitarian government raises its head, the first thing they want to prevent is an another revolution."
Eis bit her lip, the woman's eyes looking down. All in all, what 1-CE had said was not that far off from what she had presumed from the start. That all of the people Polaris placed as his puppets preferred his regime over democracy and would fight against her agenda to the teeth. The idea of them coopting Absolut and trying to turn him into a puppet for a retained totalitarian regime was something different, however.
"Where do you stand, then?" Eis suddenly spoke, getting 1-CE to raise her hologram's eyebrows - mortal lifeforms used that as a sign of surprise. "If you are telling me this, then you are clearly not interested in keeping this a secret from me."
"Correct observation, my Regent," 1-CE was quick to reply, nodding. "Unlike the mortal officers and politicians, I do not have a need for wealth, fame or power. I had been programmed with the mission to observe and collect information on the behavior of living species and that is what interests me. Truth be told, while I have collected plenty of information already... the idea of analyzing elections, the behavior of democratic institutions and the relationship between the citizen and his government in a democratic, liberal environment, as opposed to a totalitarian one, encites me, as it is a major gap in my database. It would be unfortunate to see such a promising opportunity pass. So, you may consider me a loyalist."
"Fair... enough." Eis muttered, not sure how to respond besides just stating that. Part of her wanted to respond with worry that 1-CE only considers it important to follow with Eis's agenda because of her own reasons, but, on the other hand, the artificial intelligence attested that her reasons were not selfish. She had no desire to overthrow others and assume power, even though, being one of the most important people in the Empire and in complete control of a planet all by herself, she would easily be able to. That was enough for the Regent to consider this to be a valuable alliance. "I'll need your help, and quite a lot of it, if you don't mind..."
Meanwhile, back in the coronation itself, Absolut has just finished talking to one of the few members of the Imperial Patrol who had chosen to visit the ceremony - Captain Takoya, formerly one of the most important members of the Galactic Patrol and the the leader of the Imperial Patrol detachment on Mitra, perhaps the only person in this entire crowd Absolut had known beforehand and was thus very excited to meet - when, suddenly, something happened which drew the attention of the entire crowd. More specifically, a loud shriek which came out of nowhere and echoed across the halls of the palace.
Instinctively, Absolut's hand reached towards the handle of the Sword of Greenskull, now safely hanging on his back, but as it turned out, this was a false alarm. Lute, the Demon King, had apparently gotten into a scuffle with one of the many visitors of the ceremony, throwing the man onto the floor after the conversation had, apparently, turned sour. For a moment, Lute glanced directly at Absolut's eyes, making him out from among the crowd, something which got the young Emperor to tense up in surprise, before the Namekian suddenly bolted through the door.
Chatter and conversations among the crowd erupted immediately. Most people didn't seem pleased with Lute's actions and decision at all. The words and expressions "renegade", "reclusive", "unable to get with the program" floated around the room, alongside a few others and in various forms. Absolut, on the other hand, ran up to the fallen diplomat and offered a hand, helping the man up and speaking:
"Is everything alright?"
"No no, that bastard didn't try to kill me that time, Your Majesty, you need not worry..."
Absolut took an easier breath. "That... That's good."
"Say, have I introduced myself to you, Your Majesty? I am-"
The young Emperor was long since gone, having bolted out of the room through the same door which Lute departed through a minute earlier, closing his eyes and focusing on his ki senses to track down the Namekian's signature. It was hard to miss - it was more powerful than everyone else on this entire planet, and at the same time sinister, intimidating, leaving a pit in Absolut's stomach. This is what he is going to be training under now? He looks and feels like a villain, not someone who would want to train him...
And there he was. Seemingly focused on something. Maybe it's not a very good idea to approach him now?.. he seems busy.
But... there was nobody else in this corridor besides the two of them. And Lute was just... standing there. What could he be busy on, anyway? Probably... not very much.
"Um... Mister Lute?"
Wait, Lute had some other title, right? They called him a Demon King or something like that... but, that didn't sound very nice. The Namekian maybe have looked intense, intimidating even, and the ki emanating from him was sinister and unpleasant, but he didn't look like a demon, that's for sure. Besides, he was already used to referring to adults outside of his family with "mister", much like, say, Mr. Cam, so it was also a force of habit, perhaps.
"You... you said something about wanting to train me, right?.. If you are not... busy with anything right now..."
God, it was difficult to just spit it out. It was the first time Absolut had to willingly request someone to mentor him. He didn't have much of a choice with Cam or Duria, he was kidnapped back then... and sure, he was practically kidnapped this time, too, but Lute seemed to insist for this to be Absolut's choice to make, not his. He even went as far as to doubt his goal of making the young Frost Demon the Emperor just because he said no.
"...well, almost anything would be better than this ceremony, and I'm sure you agree. And... I do need to get a lot stronger, too. What did you have in mind?"
(2145 words, total 10048)
|
|