24/09/2013

I hope everyone ogled the fanart's, 'cos they are beautiful.

Thank you to those who reviewed. We are nearly at the end now...

The Conquered
By Jade Tatsu
Chapter XXXIV – Aftermath

One thing I have not emphasised perhaps as much as I should, simply because it is, is the power of the Guyvers in interstellar politics. They are few but they hold significant power in most groups excepting perhaps the Advents and the Corang-Wesodin Alliance. The hosts do not always hold positions of power but they do hold positions of considerable influence. Perhaps the Kyheenans are the best example of this. While Tarnsi is the first Empress to actually possess a Unit, the other Kyheenan Guyvers form the Guyver Corp, whose main purpose is to protect the Emperor. They do more of course and work for the good of Kyheen but in guarding the Emperor, seeing and hearing everything the Kyheenan leader does, and in having their ear, they cannot help but to have influence.

With the events of this day, they were about to have more influence. Shō didn't want influence, he didn't care. There's a certain swagger and assurance you may adopt when you are that powerful, the knowledge that his ideas would be listened to without him playing the game of politics. The Guyver Emperor is like Alkanphel in that manner. The supreme Zoalord slept for years at a time but his followers remained loyal. Only Gyot tried rebellion and the rest were, frankly, amused at that thought. They knew what they would be up against with their Lord and they knew better than to try. Thus it was with the Guyver Emperor. The Units knew better than to go against his power and the Hosts learned that as well. The difference between Shō and Alkanphel of course is that Shō had and has no desire to rule. Only when there is gross injustice or overwhelming need does my husband step in.

But before he could do that, he had to be acknowledged. Perhaps that's why Alkanphel had so much trouble with Gyot. The last Zoalord had never truly acknowledged Alkanphel as his leader. I don't know, and it doesn't matter. Shō was not about to take that chance, not with any of the powered Guyvers. It seems arrogant, he could have made every Guyver in the galaxy bow to him but he only made the powered Guyvers bow. I understand of course, they were the ones who could become a threat and many of the unpowered units had no desire to revolt but sometimes I cannot help but wonder if there is some gathering power out there.

Shō assures me that there isn't, and he would know so I must accept his word… Actually that is too harsh. He has never forced anyone to believe him, as far as I know. I chose to believe him because that is the sort of thing that he would know absolutely. There is scepticism and then there is paranoia. I like to think I have not yet tipped into paranoia, even with the events of my life.

The events after Tsuyosa's defeat shaped the galaxy he feared. I hope his shade can forgive us. I find it ironic that without his interference I do not see how this could have happened. Even if he had of won… I believe the outcome to the galaxy would have been no different. True, the differences for the Guyvers would have been far more expansive but for the rest of the galaxy… nothing would have changed. Tsuyosa had no interest in ruling. So for now I can simply tell you what happened next because that is the flow of history.

There wasn't anything much they could do but wait. Slowly, with the exception of Tetsuro, all the Guyvers had woken up and now they either sat or stood, staring at each other. They weren't fighting and theoretically any of the powered Guyvers could leave, though Lil-itu privately thought that they probably didn't have the energy.

So they stared at each other. The two factions had taken up positions on opposite sides of the room as they waited. Those loyal to the Guyver Emperor outnumbered those loyal to the Tekki by one but their advantage was removed by Tetsuro's prone form. If it came to a fight though, Lil-itu wasn't the only one who knew the humans would win. But the humans were content to wait and she thought that perhaps they weren't as confident of Fukamachi's victory as Aptom seemed. That would make sense. If Tsuyosa won, he would be weakest only at the instant of his victory and that would be the time they could strike. Perhaps that was why they remained. She didn't know. She didn't want to know but she knew that it was only a matter of time before this was all resolved. She also knew that unless she wanted to be stuck wherever here was then she, and the other regular Guyvers would need to cozen a lift home from any of the powered Guyvers. That's why she was sort of standing in the centre… Kind of off to the side. It was the best she could do! She was not going to get in their way if they decided to fight.

There were some quiet conversations but they were one to one, conducted in muted sibilant whispers and they stopped the instant anyone focused on the speakers.

Tension was in the air and with each passing moment it grew thicker. The continued silence of their Units was not helping. No matter what questions were directed towards the parasites, they said nothing. While both sides were confident of victory, neither side really knew how the battle was going, though many were staring at the white Gigantics who served the One. All three were ignoring the attention, though Aptom was flexing his hands, forming fists, then relaxing his fingers and forming claws before repeating the process.

"All right this is ridiculous!" The statement was as shocking as it was bold and all eyes turned to the speaker.

Tarnsi deliberately raised her chin. She was on stage now but she'd been in this position before, there was nothing to be afraid of and she was not going to waste this opportunity, no matter the outcome. "Emperor Agito Makishima of the Terran Republic," she turned slightly, addressing the black Guyver Lord Warrior, "as the Empress of the Kyheenan Empire, I express my personal thanks to the Terran Republic for their aid in fighting both the Advents and the forces known as Tekki."

Agito said nothing but he did nod towards the Kyheenan Empress. Silence was a weapon in diplomatic discussions, one he knew how to use well.

"No matter the outcome of today's battle, I would be remiss in fulfilling my duties as Empress, if we do not take this opportunity to discuss and amend as appropriate the existing treaty between our peoples."

Beneath his armour, Makishima blinked. So that's what she was playing at… The woman might be new to her position but she knew what she had to do. She knew how to serve Kyheen. Her acknowledgement of him as the Terran Emperor went a long way towards annulling any arguments the Rebels might have about his legitimacy… Not that Tetsuro hadn't already with his scheming, though he still had to come up with positions for them all. At least they were competent. The thought made Agito smirk slightly as he regarded the Kyheenan Empress. "Indeed," he replied. "I propose a full mutual defence pact between our peoples," he added, shocking the entire assembly. From the way Tarnsi froze, he knew the suggestion shocked her as well. She'd probably been expecting a simple drawing of borders or a request to return the Zoanoid citizens or something equally inane but Makishima had larger plans and he knew that the forces of Earth were scattered, a little here, a few there, all hiding from the Advents. He had to establish his Empire now.

While Tarnsi struggled with words - what was it about humans that made them propose outrageous treaties? - Agito watched as the Rebel's glanced at each other. Shizu came to stand beside him, giving her silent support, which for Guyvers would be seen as significant. Two Guyver Lords, standing together… but the Rebels had two Lords, even if one was injured, and three Gigantics… and the Emperor. He would not think of that, though the black Guyver Lord Warrior did not miss the glances passing between the Rebels. Tetsuro would have been their best representative but he was not available and Natsuki was not willing to leave his side.

Predictably it was Mizuki who stepped forward but Makishima was sure she remained in mental contact with the others. His thoughts were confirmed when a moment later she projected an almost abstract picture into his mind. It took him a moment to realise it showed him their part of the galaxy, with all the planets humans had settled on. Oh yes, the Rebels were talking to each other. Only Natsuki or Hayami would know that level of detail. Agito studied the image for a moment before returning it, this time with a shaded area to indicate human territory. It was expansive but he knew his kind, they would need the area once it was known that space was a viable option. Not everyone would remain in the embrace of Earth. Mizuki shook her head and sent back the map again, this time with more territories marked and Makishima realised that these were the existing empires.

Kyheen was a dull green blob but they were truly an Empire. The Wesodin-Corang Alliance also claimed significant territory. Most other species only claimed a few systems around their home worlds and there was still a lot of dark unclaimed territory. He realised with a small start that the colonisation efforts of humans, in a bid to remain free from the Advents, had meant that they were now one of the most spatially distributed races. Mizuki's map had four main dominium's marked, while allowing for at least some expansion around most of the others. The problem was Agito didn't know who the fourth area belonged to. His question was carried in the slight movement he made towards Mizuki as the Guyver Lord Healer came to stand with them. Hayami moved to stand slightly behind Mizuki, acting as a both a body guard and secondary speaker, much like Shizu. A rust coloured Gigantic Guyver Warrior came to stand with Tarnsi but only after Gilroyd had made a step towards his Empress. Their ideals about Guyvers might be at odds but the Kyheenan's recognised the importance of the appearance of power, and they would not let their Empress be alone for this conversation. Of course they could discuss everything they wanted but Agito knew without ratification from the Corang-Wesodin and other species, the only thing that would come to pass is any agreement between him and the Kyheenans… which could be significant.

:The Advents,: Mizuki answered his question silently.

Ah. That made more sense, Agito considered, mentally turning his eyes towards the map again. He didn't like the smaller allotment but it was still generous, and right at the moment it wasn't like he had the people to protect it. For a few generations at least, this would be a bluff.

:Then it seems okay,: he replied to her. :So you will support me?:

Somehow Mizuki seemed amused. :Personally Agito? No. I will not support you. As a representative of the Rebellion's Forces, then yes, I will give you my backing,: the Guyver Lord Healer's voice was cold as she mentally replied. Agito knew better than to argue. Obviously Tetsuro hadn't yet had time to smooth the reality to everyone.

:Oh he has Agito. My brother was incredibly persuasive on your behalf,: Mizuki snapped. :But I am not as forgiving as the others. Nor do I desire a position in your government… Though I do wish you all the best in accommodating my fellow Leaders.: The last was said with the impression of a tight grin and as he had been forced to re-evaluate Mizuki in his Throne Room years ago on Earth, he was forced to re-evaluate her now. She was not as soft as he believed. :I do not like it Agito but even I must bow to reality.: The admission was forced and Agito remained silent. Whatever he could say to that would sound like an empty platitude so he turned back to Tarnsi. Mizuki may not wish a position in his government, nor would she have one but she would still play an important role. Hers would be the watch of eternity because she had been right when she faced him in his Throne Room, he knew that now, he had to remain human.

"These are the boundaries I propose," Agito said, turning back to Tarnsi who still showed surprise. The conversation with Mizuki had taken a second, the ramifications would resound far longer than that. "Input is required from all of course," he added, ensuring that he sounded like a benevolent and reasonable ruler but there was a hint of steel in his tone as he looked at the map he'd sent to Tarnsi and the other watching Guyver's through the link of their Units.

The Kyheenan Empress examined the boundaries. Her empire was marked in green, its boundaries slightly extended. The Terran's space was marked in blue, while the Corang-Wesodin's area was red and a fourth large space was yellow. Then there was a riot of colour for other individual species' claims. Most of the watching Guyvers paid attention only to their area but Agito had been generous. To the best of his ability he had allowed all races to grow and while the Terrans had not been tested, everyone knew they were a viable power. Those who rose to try to fight them would find themselves forcibly put down.

"That is a most equitable distribution," Tarnsi agreed formally, reassured by the nods from a few of the other Guyvers. They might not be the leaders of their species but most Guyvers had at least some formal standing in their governments. "Though might I ask, who is represented by the yellow patch?"

While Tarnsi may have felt silly asking, she knew better than to make assumptions and for that Agito replied without any trace of mockery. "The Advents."

"What!?" The Kyheenan Empress was too composed to shout, others were not so restrained.

For centuries the entire galaxy had lived in fear of the Advents, now this upstart human was ceding them territory? They had to be eliminated while they could be! There was no way to give them territory peacefully.

"The Terran Republic will be extending the hand of understanding toward the Advent Leadership, in the hope that closer ties will prevent any bloodshed," Agito's voice was cool but it showed his resolve. The watching Guyvers were flabbergasted but none of the humans showed as much as a hint of disagreement with their supposed Emperor. There were though, unmistakable stares of shock from those Guyvers who were known to be loyal to them, especially from those who had travelled with the Terrans.

Tarnsi felt her jaw working as her mind grappled with disbelief. Most of the watching Guyvers only knew of the human's relationship with the Advents through hearsay, though some would no doubt be recalling the events of the Interstellar Meeting. She knew their history. Tetsuro had spent some time telling her about human culture and how they came to so suddenly appear on the galactic stage. That Agito was now proposing peace… Oh, she knew that they had removed the older Advents, and that the two Advents the humans had left Earth on were now the Advent Leaders but this was almost too much… Did Agito forget what the Advents had done? No… slowly she considered the thought more rationally, putting aside her ingrained fear of the ancient race. No… Agito Makishima knew exactly what the Advents had done. He knew it on a personal level as he'd been driven from his kingdom. His anger was still there for any who knew how to listen. But the Terran Emperor was also grounded in reality. The Advents could not just be forgotten. They had their place in the galaxy. They had undeniable power.

"The Kyheenan Empire would be proud to support the Terran Republic in that endeavour. Long have we thought that better understanding of our neighbours would lead to better relations," Tarnsi said, suppressing her wince at the statement. It was completely true that the Kyheenans had thought that better understanding of the Advents would be beneficial because any understanding might have lead them to develop strategy they would need to survive against the inevitable onslaught.

"Why are you even discussing this?" 'Nyataran finally burst out! The marron Gigantic Guyver Healer had watched the proceedings for a while but he could no longer contain himself. Around the Artarmon several other Guyvers loyal to the Tekki gathered to lend their support.

Agito snorted, turning his cold gaze to the other Guyver. 'Nyataran was tough. He'd served Tsuyosa for years, one glare from a black Guyver Lord warrior meant nothing to him. "Regardless of the outcome," Makishima spoke in a clipped tone, "your Master has shown no desire to build an Empire. He will not challenge me for leadership of the Terran Republic and he will not interfere in the governance of any other species. By his own admission, his war with the Advents is over and as the leader of all Terrans, I must look to the future."

"But your Emperor will be dead!"

"So?"

It was the complete nonchalance that threw the loyal Tekki Guyvers.

"Your. Leader. Will. Be. Dead." 'Nyataran repeated, making sure each word was clear.

It was Hayami who replied. "The outcome the battle currently being fought has no bearing on the leadership of the Terran Republic," the ice Zoanoid said gently, as if trying to explain to someone very young the way of the world.

"But…" Uncertainty made 'Nyataran's voice soft. What they said was true. His master had no desire to rule the Terrans… but why did they not care about the battle? Did they care nothing for the Guyver Emperor?

Olsyn took pity on his fellow Artarmon. "I believe the humans are confident that it will be your leader who is defeated," he spoke gently in their dead language leaving many to wonder what was said. This time the Units saw no reason to translate what was a private conversation.

"That won't be," 'Nyataran responded in kind, his belief in Tsuyosa's power absolute but as he shifted six pairs of human Guyver eyes watched him and the Artarmon felt a new premonition. When speaking with Olsyn for the first time he had thought that the likely outcome was that Tsuyosa would be victorious but injured. Now looking at the array of power before him, the Artarmon could not help but wonder if Tsuyosa would be victorious but later defeated by one of the waiting humans… That seemed to be more and more likely. His resolve hardened. That would not be.

"Do any of you wish to speak for your species?" Agito decided to ignore the Artarmon's as he questioned the other Guyvers. There were not many who were the same species but those who were, regardless of whether they supported Fukamachi or Tsuyosa, shared long looks with each other, silently discussing the situation.

Tallowa shook her head at Forrinimi. She had resigned from the Guyver Corp meaning she no longer had any formal position within their society. "I believe I speak on behalf of my people," Forrinimi said, his voice deep, "when I say that we are open to the prospect of peace but we will not be ground down by another overlord."

Many of the gathered Guyvers nodded their agreement. While the Units were a coveted item, they had found their way into the hands of many races. "The Oranmeira share a similar view to the Mangorans," Iythry spoke, her voice almost elated that her sister had not summarily rejected her invitation to speak. They disagreed about the leadership of the Guyvers but she had never wanted to drive her twin away.

"As most of you lack the authority to discuss anything further, I would propose that another Interstellar meeting be held," Agito made the proposition a command.

"That is a most wise proposal," Tarnsi agreed, practically locking the galaxy into the meeting. If the Terrans and the Kyheenans were there, everyone else would attend even if only to remain informed of the changes in the political landscape. "Though I believe, your Majesty, we may continue to discuss our treaty," she added, trying but failing to completely keep the note of superiority from her voice.

"Indeed, your Majesty," Agito replied, "we should." Once the Kyheenan's agreed, having the other lesser races accept the boundaries of human territory would be much easier. "Perhaps, a little privacy is in order?" He added the last in a voice that was almost amused.

:I agree,: Tarnsi said silently as she nodded. She was not blind to the Terran Emperor's desires or needs but she also knew the force she was dealing with. The humans might not be as strong as everyone believed just yet but they would be and if they had been denied or oppressed, then when they came into their full power… The Kyheenan Empress resisted the urge to shudder… The Advents and the Tekki's forces had been considered the most powerful for centuries, somehow she knew, that if push came to shove, the humans would eclipse them. Perhaps they already had with their battles but the greater galaxy did not yet know that and she had no desire for them to see anything but the peaceful side of humanity. She'd seen what their vengeance could do to others, it would be best if that face remained hidden. Tarnsi felt that was her duty, both to Kyheen and to the other citizens of the galaxy.

:We cannot hide it forever,: Mizuki interrupted her thoughts, seemingly showing the same skill Tsuyosa had to read another Guyver's inner most musings.

:And those who are sensible already know what we can do,: Aptom added, flicking up the memory of the Jraewy battle formation falling before them.

:I realise this,: Tarnsi said seriously. :And everyone knows how capable you are at fighting off Advent troops,: she added, :but I would prefer for the galaxy to keep the belief that humans are a benevolent power, one who has already slacked their thirst for vengeance against the Advents.:

Aptom laughed. :It's not that simple.:

:I know but for the moment human interference is seen as beneficial. I know full well that you will repel and retaliate for any attack. You will however suffer from fewer attacks if your territory and your skills are openly acknowledged.:

:I fail to see how we could be any more open about them,: Hayami interrupted.

Mentally Agito signalled his agreement. He could see what the Kyheenan Empress was trying to do but coming from the established position, she did not understand how there would be those who would test their boundaries. No matter how well acknowledged the borders were and how much they had shown the galaxy they were capable in fighting the Advents, there would be those who attacked them, merely because they were new. There was always someone who pushed the boundaries. They should know better but stupidity was universal. :We will deal with any incursions as they occur,: he said, forestalling the argument he could feel brewing. :Do you agree in principle to a mutual defence pact?: The Kyheenan Empress had never replied to that proposal.

:I do,: Tarnsi said easily, :but details will need to wait until I can speak with my navy.:

Agito nodded. He only needed her agreement to the principle for the moment. He would need an update about the situation on Earth and their colonies before he could truly commit to anything. Plus it would take time for the Rebels to integrate with what remained of his government. This was one time when he was thankful that diplomatic discussions could take months. Except… he'd only have a month or so before the Interstellar Meeting he had proposed. Beneath his armour Agito laughed condescendingly to himself. It would be more than enough time.

Now all they had to do was wait. No one was leaving without knowledge of the final outcome of the battle. Neither combatant wanted to rule the galaxy but no matter who won, victory would be absolute and despite what they had said to 'Nyataran Agito really didn't know how it might affect his plans. Fukamachi had better win, if only because he knew how to handle Shō and as much as it galled him to admit, Tetsuro had been correct. So long as he did not do anything objectionable, then the Rebellion and Fukamachi would be satisfied with his leadership.

"How much longer do you think it will take?" Rasulmin meant the question to be quiet but in the sudden silence, her whispered question to Unohan was heard by all.

"Probably not too mu…" Vesna gasped. They all did. The sense of presence was huge. It weighed upon them all and the Jyt'nr Guyver was thankful he'd remained sitting when he'd been revived. He forced himself to breath. This feeling… He'd only felt something like it once before when Tsuyosa had been before him, forcing him to embrace his power but this was larger… stronger. It wanted to crush him, crush them all into the ground. Vesna wasn't the only one who forced himself to look up.

There, hovering in the middle of the room was a Guyver. It was white, blindingly so as the armour glowed. The form was slender, the armour tightly clinging to the host body. Gold glittered over the armour, somehow making the lines harsh and more defined without seeming angular and there, hovering over one of the Guyver's hands was an inactive unit. It was black, the only point of relief coming from the dull silver of the control medallion.

This was the first time most of them had seen the form of the Guyver Emperor. The sight transfixed them all and Vesna knew what it meant to be transcended. He wasn't the only one feeling like a mouse fixed under the gaze of the ultimate predator because even though the Guyver was looking at none of them, somehow it felt like it was looking at all of them, weighing their worth, assessing their presence. It held the position of power and it was superior and as Vesna struggled to breathe he realised that only the humans were remaining standing. All the others had been driven into the ground by the sheer force of presence the white Guyver exuded.

White and black power fighting the other and the result was not known. They'd both reached out to claim him and he'd screamed before that happened. Looking up Vesna closed his eyes as he remembered that feeling. He had been terrified but it had been warm. His fear was because there had been two, now there was only one. And it was the one who had protected him. His eyes opened and he smiled as the weight vanished, then almost without thought Vesna shifted, kneeling before the one who had claimed him.

Others followed suit. Forrinimi, Iythra and Olsynamantra knelt almost the instant they recognised the figure. There was no regret in their movement. The Guyver Emperor just watched. Nothing was said and there was no lessening of the sense of presence. If anything the pressure rose as time went on. The humans remained standing while many of the Tekki loyal Guyvers just stared in disbelief.

"No…"

The Emperor barely flicked a finger but the gesture got a response. Aptom disappeared from the side of the room to reappear behind the Guyver Emperor. His white Gigantic form was hulking beside his master and his colouring appeared dull but there was no hiding his purpose. A gravity globe appeared in Aptom's clawed hand, held over the Guyver Emperor's shoulder, aimed clearly towards the Tekki's followers. There was nothing implied about the threat.

Sylyn, Ramus, Tarnsi and Alkard copied their fellows. They had always proclaimed their loyalty to the One, so bending knee brought no shame.

The sleek white and gold Guyver shifted slightly, his head lowering as he glowered at the Guyvers who had been loyal to the Tekki. Surprisingly in the sheer feel of his presence there was no recrimination. There was understanding, even acceptance of their previous actions but over that there was a demand and the demand was absolute. Here and now, they had to acknowledge him, bow to him because he was the Emperor and nothing they could say or do would change that. More than the Host's acknowledgement, he required the Unit's submission. They had made their choice, they had fought but they had lost. Tsuyosa had lost and the evidence of his defeat was held above the Emperor's hand. This was not a vindictive act of dominance, despite Aptom's more than enthusiastic threat but it was a necessary one.

Without a word Alkanphel's Clone knelt, his eyes showing nothing. He acknowledged the power of the one before him. The white Guyver Emperor regarded the human for an instant, before turning his attention back to the loyal Tekki Guyvers, apparently satisfied with whatever it was that he saw. It meant though that his full attention was now on the Tekki's followers.

"No…" 'Nyataran's voice was broken but he refused to kneel and most of the others stared wide eyed surprise and fear holding them motionless.

Iythry closed her eyes and lowered her head before she knelt. So her sister had been right all along. The power of the One was absolute and could not be denied. There was no reason for her to continue to fight and against the presence of the One she had no idea how she could fight. She was defeated. The instant after she shifted to kneel the sense of presence lessened, and her fear abated. She felt her sister again, Iythra's presence was soft and welcoming and it felt like she had come home. She gave a soft sigh as she surrendered.

Tallowa shivered. Fukamachi was bad enough… but Fukamachi wielding the power of the One… She struggled to breathe as her fear wrapped around her, driving through her body with an almost physical presence. She could tell Aptom was aiming for her. Of course he was. He was the One's loyal servant. He was the Warrior the One used so he did not dirty his own hands and she could still feel the pull of the spears as they passed through her body. She could feel her blood pooling in her lungs, her organs dripping their life force into her abdominal cavity. Her breath became short and even though a Guyver's armour hid all expression she could see the smirk on Aptom's face. He was enjoying her pain.

A hand gripped her shoulder and the fear vanished. Tallowa spun to stare straight into the eyes of Yisuvac, her Lord. Unohan was beside him and the two of them offered her comfort. There were no words. There didn't have to be. Slowly Tallowa closed her eyes and lowered her head to Yisuvac. Then the three of them turned back to the Guyver Emperor and knelt. The Emperor kept his attention on them for a moment longer before the sense of his presence faded as he accepted their submission. Beneath her armour tears streamed down Tallowa's face. She was still afraid of perfection and somehow she knew she always would be.

Woorak looked up at the One. The white form was the image of perfection. Sleek, strong and infinitely powerful. The sheer force of presence was driving him to his knees but even though he had fallen he knew the being before him would not accept that submission. He had to choose to kneel. He had seen the humans fight, even when they were trapped, even when they knew they had no chance of winning and he had seen their strength. It had been awesome then… now… now it was just overwhelming. Fukamachi had said nothing but he didn't need to. Woorak nodded and beneath his armour there was a slight smile on his face as he knelt. Tsuyosa had tried and he had done his best. There was nothing to be ashamed of but continuing to fight now would be stupidity. The victor took it all and he would accept nothing less than their submission.

Xeo'm suppressed the dull pain in her arm that lingered from the wounds Tetsuro had inflicted. It was nothing against the raging fear that encompassed her being. The One was looking down on her. His gaze held neither forgiveness or understanding. There was only the promise of more pain. No! Everyone needed healers and she was a healer! But she was not his healer…. He didn't need her. He had his own… His servant, Hayami who stood with the other humans looking up at him, his wife Mizuki… Tsuyosa had told her! He had been clear.

'Sooner or later, everyone comes to us healers,' she had said that. She had meant that.

'But not everyone comes to you.' His reply had hurt. But his reply had not mattered to her, not then… She could see the truth of it now. Not everyone came to her and after today, no one would come to her. He would see to that. He did not forgive, and he would not forget. She was alone in this universe. She would always be alone and no matter what she did he would always be there watching, waiting for her to make another mistake and then he would strike…

No! It would not end here! She would not follow Tsuyosa to the grave… but what could she do? Beside her Jetlene knelt, the engineer's decision already made. There was no support from her Gigantics as Vesna had always served the One. Slowly Xeo'm knelt and bowed her head. She had no choice. The force of the Emperor's presence did not abate and she gritted her teeth against the continued pressure. Fukamachi was meant to be forgiving, he was meant to be gentle… in this form he was neither. His power was cold and harsh, it supported nothing but his own desire. He didn't seem to move but somehow he was watching her and she felt exposed. She knelt because she had to, not because she wanted to but none of the Tekki's followers wanted to and even though she had never seen the black Guyver Lord Warrior as anything more than a means to an end, she never wanted to kneel to anyone. There was a snort in her mind and somehow Xeo'm managed to lower her head further as the gravity globe in Aptom's hand seemed to hum. The white and gold Gigantic Warrior targeted her but no attack came.

Xeo'm sobbed, gasping for air made thick with his presence. She was going to die… here, on her knees… she was going to die. The world fell away as she stared at the ground waiting for the strike, the flash of pain before the eternal dark. But nothing came. No pain. No strike. But the pressure remained and more of her fell away. Her entire being was being stripped from her. Finally as Xeo'm was gasping, almost writhing on the floor the feel of presence moved on.

The Vad'm woman blinked, shaking her head to clear it before she looked up and froze. There, before her, hovering in the air was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. White and gold with power beyond anything she had ever felt. Her mind shuddered back from it even as her heart embraced it. The feeling was warm, the feeling was good and Xeo'm smiled as she once again bowed her head. She would follow this man.

Heborae hissed though her breath was silent. This was the One? This was the power all Guyver's bowed to? No… it couldn't be… this was the man who had fought her, who had hurt her… more than anyone else in this galaxy this was the one man who had hurt her. He had taken everything from her! Her strength, her pride… her child. And now she was expected to bow to him. No! No!

Bile rose burning her throat as she forced it back down. The white Guyver merely hovered there, looking down upon them all. The others were kneeling. Even her two Gigantics were on their knees behind her. She did not blame them. Tsuyosa had occasionally let the force of his presence be known and the black Guyver Lord had always felt incredibly strong but she now knew that he had been reigning in his presence. He had to have been if one human could produce this much force.

She could not kneel. She would not kneel. The life of her child, ripped from her demanded that she never kneel but the sheer force of his regard was weakening her resolve. Was she really this weak? Was she truly this easy to defeat? Had Tsuyosa been right, did she somehow, even now, lack respect? But what of the respect due her? Fukamachi had never shown her that… He'd always come in, or just been there and resisted! Even the first time they had met, above that Terran ship… He had mocked her… He always mocked her… he'd called himself a Gigantic Guyver Warrior then but that was a lie. He was so much more. He was beyond a Lord, beyond everything and she knew she was only feeling the barest edge of his presence. She simply couldn't comprehend the rest.

He would never be nothing before her, yet she would always be nothing before him. Where was the respect Tsuyosa spoke of? Heborae staggered slightly and for the first time tears traced their way down her face. She would have raised one leg to savagely wipe them away but she knew that such an action would cause her to crash to the floor. It was not fair. She had given so much, she had lost so much and tried so hard but she could never win. What did it take?

The watching presence seem to take on the feel of impatience and Heborae quivered. He had already won so why did he need this acquiesce? Did he wish to drive them into the dirt for his own amusement? Fukamachi had never seemed to be the vindictive type but she couldn't be sure. Behind his almost blinding form Aptom shifted. The gravity globe, the only weapon he had formed, seemed to target her. She knew it wasn't. It was merely hovering in his palm, the same way the Tsuyosa's inactive unit was hovering in his Master's palm but somehow the way he stood seemed to indicate that he was focused on her. Everyone probably felt that way as several of them had knelt almost simultaneously. She was near the end though, only a few remained defiant, except the humans. They were watching Fukamachi but they had said nothing and had not moved, save for Aptom, like a good obedient dog. He could get as impatient as he wanted. She would not kneel! If that meant that she did not respect, then she'd accept that.

Years later Heborae would later describe this day and while the overwhelming force of Fukamachi's presence was something everyone felt, she would remember that he was capable of conveying subtler feelings. Laced into his aura were questions, and emotion. They were so carefully controlled that she knew only those to whom the question was directed at would feel it, so that in the moments after he appeared, no matter how long it seemed to take before the Powered Guyver's knelt, he was engaged in multiple conversations.

Impatience faded as incredulity took its place. Respect? You think I do not respect? I have shown you every respect. The words were not said but the feelings were clear. I have fought you to the full extent of my ability every time. I have shown you my strength. I have caused you pain but you have caused me pain. Heborae wanted to snarl. She wanted to bare her teeth and deny the truth of the feelings but she could not. It was the absolute truth and she could not hide from that but she held on to the memory of her child, one that had barely begun to form who had been torn from her too early. The being before her knew nothing of pain! He did not know what it felt like to lie under the healer's touch as they casually spoke, removing tissue! Tissue! That's all her child's life had been! No, he knew nothing of pain.

His aura tightened around her. It was only because she was already braced that Heborae did not fall when phantom claws ripped into her stomach in a gesture not meant merely to wound. The worst was not the sick feel of her guts being slashed and shifted, it was the knowledge that she trusted the one who attacked her. The green quadruped Guyver sobbed. This has never happened to her but betrayal hurt. Then everything changed and she watched as a blue world burned with the knowledge that billions were killed. She wretched but again a tiny voice screamed that this had never happened! Her father appeared, the last of her kin, yet it was her claws that ripped him apart with coldly logical strikes, never stopping, never showing mercy and as loathing washed through her she screamed for it to stop. It was another thing that never happened. A smaller pain this time but no less sharp that the others, watching buildings burn on an ice world, accompanied with the knowledge that civilians were dying and there was nothing she could do. Heborae shook her head savagely. None of this had happened! A ship burned in space, brilliant gouts of flame existing for an instant, almost like liquid before the oxygen was consumed and the light died. It screamed its will to the world and pain lanced through her heart! They should not have died but they knew the price of freedom and were prepared to pay it. No… this never happened… she had never seen anything like that. Her armour burned, it was not strong enough to hold against the energy battering it but she held firm anyway, her will not her own. She had to fight, she had to protect them but then blackness engulfed her and she felt nothing but the trace of denial mixed with her bile. Regret hit her, the force of it almost enough to drive her to the ground. More regret, more remorse than she could envisage. Figures appeared before her. They paraded past her, each one accompanied by a subtle difference in regret, though each one held an ocean of the feeling. A human she did not know, brown haired, brown eyed and portly but she loved him, there was no question of that and regret washed away as another appeared. Golden and strong, spines covered his body but then it was consumed by energy and she felt the pain of victory. Then another appeared, and another. It was too much and Heborae screamed silently as the parade never seemed to end. But then two new ones appeared. The first she recognised without thought. Tsuyosa. His black armour was almost shiny and his aura of confidence could not be denied. But there was regret with the vision. There was a friendship lost, possibilities gone forever and that laced through her before the final figure appeared almost against a field of green. It was a small quadruped, all lanky and unsure as it took its first steps. The feeling of love that accompanied the vision was absolute but it was washed away by remorse. There was no self-loathing, the remorse allowed no other emotion. The weight of the galaxy was there and she shuddered. She could not bear that.

It lifted slightly with the thought and Heborae knew then that it was not her remorse, not her guilt or regret that she had felt. It was his! All those events, all that feeling, it was his… The Emperor's… But through it there was the will to carry on, to go forward because there was no way back. To go back was to stumble. To go back was impossible and all one could do was carry on, shoulder the regret and remorse, learn from it, so that it was never all that you knew. Embrace love when it appeared, embrace friendship and your companions, hold on to them tight. Know the worth of your fellows and fight to defend them with everything you had. Never back away from what you knew was right but never kill without reason, never inflict pain that was unnecessary and always forgive yourself when the battle came to your door and had no choice but to take up arms.

Heborae lowered her head, not even hearing her own breathing as she understood. Tsuyosa had been right. She did not respect. Beneath her armour her eyes closed and in a manner far more controlled than she ever thought she would be in this situation, she lowered herself to the ground. She could not kneel the way bipeds did but the gesture was the same. She had no choice but to submit.

She did not feel defeated as she knelt, rather it was almost a rebirth and as she watched the ground with half closed eyes, Heborae vowed to herself, she would always show respect. It was the only way to honour her loss.

Dinshika staggered, disbelief thick in his mind. This could not be happening. The one who had given him power, the one who had shown him the way Dunrossil could be free… he could not be dead. But the proof was before him in the gently spinning object hovering over the sleek white Guyver's hand. Tsuyosa's inactive unit. It said with more finality than mere words that the battle was over. The Lyusan Guyver was an engineer but he, like almost all of Dunrossil's Guyvers had been taught how to fight and for one split second he had considered it. But even before the thought had been fully formed, the hulking form of the white Gigantic Guyver had turned towards him. He couldn't see the human's daring smile but he felt it. It shivered through his bones leaving them feeling weaker than water. He could not fight, he could not run and Dunrossil was now forever lost. Slowly Dinshika fell, tears streaming down his face as he acknowledged the victor.

Gilroyd watched Bithrinyataran carefully. The Artarmon had been with the Tekki the longest and the Kyheenan knew that the marron Gigantic Guyver Healer knew more about their master than anyone else. The black Guyver Lord had been the Artarmon's everything. Not that it was that hard to understand. With his species dead, 'Nyataran had latched on to anything that provided strength and continuity. The Tekki Leader had provided that. Yet now he was gone, and there was no hope of return. The One was making that more than clear with the display of the black Unit.

Everything that the Tekki Leader had told them about the One seemed to be contradicted by that gesture, yet everything was explained as well. He had felt the One's anger when Natsuki's medallion was ripped from her but now Gilroyd understood that was at least in part because it was an unnecessary act. Whoever she had been fighting had done it merely to cause pain. The One had removed Tsuyosa's medallion because there had been no other choice. The Kyheenan Guyver understood that but he did not think 'Nyataran would. They were the last two of the Tekki's followers remaining defiant. The other's had knelt, almost simultaneously after the One's followers, excluding the Terrans, had knelt. Their reasons were obvious. Their master was defeated and there was no other choice. They could not fight alone. The Tekki had been their guide, their strength. It was his ideal they followed. He had fought with everything he had but the One still stood.

Gilroyd had always known this was a possible outcome. 'Nyataran had never believed it and the Kyheenan could see the Artarmon's world shattering. He had no idea what it would be like. Firstly to lose your species, to know that you were completely alone in the Universe… and now to lose your hope. To lose the one thing that had made you continue. He was surprised that the Artarmon had not fallen, had not raised his own hand to kill himself. But the Kyheenan Guyver also knew that such action would not be possible. The One would not allow it. Was that mercy, in the hope that the Artarmon would find something worth living for? Or was it a final act of vengeance against the Tekki Leader, to never allow his followers peace? No… the green Guyver shook his head. Everything he had felt from the One did not back such a vindictive nature. There was no desire for revenge with the action. It just was. The same with the Tekki's defeat.

It had been a battle only one could win. Their philosophies had been opposite and could not co-exist. The Tekki could not co-exist. He had done everything in his power to ensure his victory but the end… something was missing. Gilroyd had no idea what it might be. He doubted he ever would. He remained unbowed though as the pressure increased and he fought the desire to kneel. He would give 'Nyataran what support he could. Not for the Tekki's sake but for the Artarmon's, so that the marron Gigantic Guyver Healer would know he was not alone in the universe. Olsyn would probably provide support as well but Olsyn had always agreed with the One. In the aftermath of defeat, his help would not be welcomed.

:'Nyataran…: The mental call was tentative.

:No!: The Artarmon screamed back. :This cannot be!:

:This is what is,: Gilroyd replied, keeping his mental voice gentle but refusing to hide the truth.

:It can't be!:

:So what are you going to do?: the Kyheenan Guyver asked challengingly. :Attack? And what purpose would that serve?:

For an instant Gilroyd thought 'Nyataran was considering it. But the reality of the situation made itself known. They were staring up at the strongest Guyver in existence. The Emperor, the one who ruled them all. At his back, his warrior hovered, gravity globe already formed to defend his master from the slightest hint of danger. The Gigantic Guyver Healer would not get close.

:Hate? You already know the futility of hate.: Gilroyd pressed on with his challenge towards his fellow.

:What is left for me?: 'Nyataran returned the question. :My species is dead. There are not enough of us left to rebuild. My Master is dead. That one will not let him revive. So what do I have to live for?:

Gilroyd didn't want to admit that for the Artarmon it was a good question. One he couldn't answer. :What purpose would your death serve?: He asked, trying to turn the question around.

:I wouldn't be alone!: 'Nyataran hissed. :The pain would stop!:

The answer was selfish but Gilroyd wasn't sure he could respond and so he cast one eye towards the Emperor who was hovering, silently observing everything. The Kyheenan had no doubt that the One had heard their entire conversation. :Help him!: Gilroyd pleaded, sinking to his knees. :Please… You are the only one who can.:

The brilliantly white armour made the slightest flicker of movement, and to Gilroyd it seemed as if he was assessed before the Guyver Emperor's regard settled on 'Nyataran. The Artarmon hissed, almost growling and Gilroyd could only imagine what it felt like to have the entire attention of the Guyver Emperor. Nothing was said. Nothing needed to be said but the Kyheenan knew that the One was speaking with Bithrinyataran in that way he had spoken to them all. A feeling, his pure understanding that was coupled with impeccable resolve. He knew their pain, even if he was the cause of it.

'Nyataran made as if to attack but before the movement was anything more than a flinch it was aborted. The Gigantic Guyver Warrior who stood as guard was far too quick, far too powerful not the mention what the One was capable of himself. There was no means to attack and the Artarmon knew that. But he also wanted to lash out at something. The pain was too great… Tsuyosa was never meant to lose! He couldn't lose. He had the power of them all.

But so had Fukamachi. The realisation came to 'Nyataran so suddenly he knew it wasn't just his own thought. He would never have thought that. For a brief moment, rage drowned his pain. Then it vanished. What did it matter? Even if he was angry, who did he blame? Tsuyosa? He could not blame the memory of his Master. No matter how tempting it would be. To do that would be to deny his loyalty. Anger at the One would get him nothing either. It wouldn't even get him death.

The Artarmon could feel the power hovering there. It was perfect, a mix of all the Guyvers. The raw capacity for violence of a Warrior, tempered by the controlled flow of energy of a Healer, and the ingenuity of an Engineer. He embodied everything, and in that embodiment, he would not kill, despite that being the ultimate expression of power for a Warrior. The Healer within him would not allow that. Tsuyosa had been different. 'Nyataran knew that. His Master had challenged, had been equal but that is not what lead to his death. His master had betrayed.

That was the final truth. His master had betrayed the Guyver Units… that's why they he was dead. Their leader was their leader, the Emperor, the One who would guide them.

Beneath his armour 'Nyataran closed his eyes. Hate was still thick within him. Anger bubbled, ready to boil forth at the slightest provocation and black, deep grief consumed everything. He was helpless. He could not lift so much as a finger in defiance and it was only through the grace of the One that he could think against the white Guyver hovering there.

He had felt this before. Not exactly this feeling but close enough that it might have been the same. The same helplessness, the same pointless rage and hate. He had sworn that it would be eternal then, only to have the feelings burn themselves out over centuries. 'Nyataran had been jealous of the ephemerals, with their short lives and passions, with their belief that hatred could be eternal. He knew better. Hatred perhaps could be eternal, if you had the chance to strike back, if one day you knew you might win but and you had the strength to accept the discord that would follow. The cycle continued. But hatred for something you knew you could not fight, that you knew would never relent, for events you could not change… that was hollow. Yet 'Nyataran could not release it yet. It was too raw, too much a part of him.

A glance up told him otherwise. He had to let it go, or the creature would strike. He was the last standing, save for the followers, though they would bend knee soon enough. The Emperor might be their friend but he was also their ruler and no ruler would tolerate insubordination in this situation. He, like all of them, was trapped.

This time he did snarl as his will hardened, and the feelings coalesced into one. :I will be watching you Fukamachi Shō! Always watching, until the end of time and if you slip, I will find a way to end you.:

'Nyataran half anticipated amusement to greet his statement. Despite its strength and his resolve, resolve that was feed by his anger, his hatred, he was realistic. Tsuyosa had transcended him in power. This being, the Guyver Emperor, he transcended Tsuyosa. 'Nyataran didn't stand a chance in a fight, yet the One did not so much flash an instant of amusement or mockery. He was instead calm and composed and as the Artarmon knelt he felt acceptance of his vow. The instant 'Nyataran knelt, acknowledging the Guyver Emperor in his heart, the sense of presence that had been driving him down vanished almost completely. It was still there but muted and the Artarmon could only wonder at the sheer strength and fine control displayed. The humans were, truly, something else again.

A moment after 'Nyataran knelt, there was a shift in the air. The gravity globe Aptom had created disappeared as the small form of the One turned slightly to examine the white Gigantic Guyver from the corner of his eye. He didn't need to turn, his sensors were already showing him everything but the gesture was necessary as a dismissal. The zoanoid recognised it for what it was, backing away gracefully and dropping back to the ground. He and Hayami moved as one though both exuded an almost tangible joy. They held no fear of the one they obeyed.

The Emperor showed no reaction to the obeisance but instead seemed to share a look with the Guyver Healer Mizuki. She stood near the prone form of her brother, looking up at her husband. She looked down to her brother, then back up. It said without words that she would not submit until her brother was safe. When the One gestured this time, it was more forceful. Previously the merest flick of one finger had summoned Aptom to his side, this time he moved his hand and a soft energy gathered. It vanished almost before it was seen, only to reappear surrounding the prone from of Tetsuro. Natsuki could not help a small exclamation of surprise as warmth flooded her. It was the warmth of healing energy, soft, gentle and it awoke her senses. She could smell rice, and yakitori carried on the wind. She could feel the gentle kiss of the spring sun and hear the chirp of birds. It was peaceful and it was home. And Tetsuro stirred in her lap.

He didn't move much. He didn't have to. She saw when his eyes opened because the pearl plates of his armour glowed gently. Natsuki lowered her head, almost as if she was moving to kiss her lover but she couldn't. Instead, delicately, their control medallions touched and feeling flowed between them. Tetsuro was disoriented but the information from Natsuki centred him quickly. Far too quickly. But Natsuki had no time to contemplate that because Tetsuro shifted, rolling to his knees before the Emperor. Natsuki followed her lover and Mizuki nodded towards them before she too knelt. Three more hearts opened to the white and gold form of the One.

That left Agito and Shizu standing. While the choice to bow was individual, Shizu would only submit if her husband did so that left Agito and Shō staring at each other. There were no words. There did not need to be with their history. Perhaps of all the powered Guyvers, Agito was the biggest threat. He had called the armour of the One before. He knew what it felt like, he knew what it could do. It was claimed now, it knew its master so the black Guyver Lord Warrior could not call it and for the future of the Guvyers he had to admit its owner.

Neither moved as they stared at each other but there were subtle shifts of power around them both as they seemed to talk. Others might think it was a negotiation, the two at the centre knew better. There was no negotiation, no give and take, there was only a simple demand. Yet Makishima Agito was a proud man, he made his own demand.

Those already kneeling felt the power of the One intensify, though the sense of presence was not directed at them. It was directed at Agito and he could not help but feel it in his bones, as did Shizu and she shivered involuntarily. Fukamachi didn't often display his power but when he did, he didn't opt for subtlety. Agito snarled, jerking his head upwards but there was no give from the white Guyver hovering above him. Obedience was not negotiable. The sense of presence was huge and Makishima couldn't help the tiniest bit of wonder in the back of his mind when it expanded.

For one terrible moment the weight of the galaxy bore down. Agito didn't stagger, he couldn't, instead he fell straight to his knees, fighting to keep his head upright as the force flattened him. Above Fukamachi hovered still and Makishima could feel that the other Guyver felt this force but was somehow immune. Somehow Fukamachi accepted it, worked with it and was not driven into the ground. It was the weight he bore always. There was reluctance with the white Guyver's acceptance of that weight and power but acceptance was absolute. There was arrogance, tempered by grief and pride that was countered by responsibility. Fukamachi Shō wielded the power of the One with a light hand but when called upon to use it, he was not afraid to be as forceful as necessary.

Beneath his armour, Agito's eyes closed as he considered his long-time rival. From the moment he got the Unit they had been at odds… but only at odds in terms of method, Makishima admitted to himself. In almost all other ways they were identical. There was a quirk at that, the feeling was almost as if Shō was raising one eyebrow to question his thoughts, and Agito corrected himself. They were not identical but broadly speaking they had the same goals, though the methods varied and some of the details were highly contested but for the first time in a very long time, the black and purple Guyver Lord Warrior admitted that Fukamachi hadn't stood in his way. The teal Guyver had lead the way, had made many a victory possible. And now the teal Guyver was calling upon him to acknowledge his loyalty and obedience… not to himself because Fukamachi was not arrogant enough to desire his personal loyalty but to the One, to the fact that when he took up arms with the white and gold armour he was the ultimate authority for the Guyver Units.

Slowly, Agito lowered his head in acquiesce. "I accept," he whispered under his breath, the words not really spoken but felt. The weight of the galaxy crushing down upon him eased and vanished so that it was the normal weight of Fukamachi's presence washing through the room though that weight was nothing to scoff at. But he was thankful that the white Guyver had reigned in the weight he bore so easily. It allowed Shizu to rise slightly and make her own bow. He had felt the edges of that presence before, over Senalzar, so he knew what it entailed. She had not and the full force had hit her hard. Agito knew, without knowing how he knew, that the instant she obeyed, healing energy flowed through her. Fukamachi was not one to leave others in pain for long.

That meant that everyone had bowed, everyone acknowledged and obeyed the Guyver Emperor. Shō hovered for a few moments more, looking down and then he flicked his free hand, almost as a benediction, and for one instant the kneeling Guyvers could feel… everything. They felt each other. They felt the world around them. They felt the galaxy. But mostly they could feel the connection of all Guyvers to each other and they could feel the One's sorrow that he had been forced to remove the Tekki's connection. Tsuyosa's followers did not feel regret because there was none, only sorrow. All the Units shifted slightly, as if moving with the tide when the One extended himself to them.

After the moment faded, they blinked, and realised that the One was gone. The room was empty and somehow smaller without the white and gold presence and unsurprisingly some sobbed, though in relief or despair all refrained from asking.

It was then though, that all knew, the battle was over.

In the instant that my husband disappeared, several Units had also disappeared. Their hosts no longer had the bioenergy to sustain them, especially with Tsuyosa's passing. That made what happened next rather anti-climactic. The individuals present had agreed in principle to an interstellar meeting and Tarnsi as the Empress of Kyheen was in a position to call that meeting, so it would happen. However, with some Units pulling back to the boost dimension, not just because their hosts were exhausted but because their hosts could not summon them without aide, it fell to those of us still possessing a powered Unit to take the others home.

You almost have to laugh at that. After a fight for the fate of all the Units, those who won, because those of us loyal to the One won that battle the instant he did, were now reduced to a teleportation service. Unsurprisingly I teleported more people home that Aptom and Agito combined, though for some reason Aptom and Hayami escorted Tarnsi back to Kyheen.

I believe the instant we got everyone settled was the instant we all collapsed into sleep. Another boring and completely predictable response to the events of the day. I was so tired I didn't even worry about Shō. I'd like to say it's because I knew he was safe but it wasn't. I, like the others were exhausted and I had no energy to worry about anything. Even when I awoke, breakfast was the first thing on my mind before more sleep. Tsuyosa had drained us, he had drained us all, and the only thing that drove us after the battle was the desire to get to a safe place. I think Shō might have surreptitiously provided some energy to ensure that everyone was safe.

I have never asked my husband what he can do when he manifests the power of the One. He's never volunteered the information either. From what Tsuyosa has inferred, and Agito from the time he summoned the armour, I know it is a lot and I know it can alter reality. I do not know to what extent so I do not know how much it was Shō's will which has impacted on the events that followed, how much he smoothed the problems many Guyvers faced returning to their societies. There were issues. Despite the fact that they had been forcibly kidnapped, there were many issues to deal with resulting from Tsuyosa's actions. While the interstellar consequences were taken care of at the meeting, the more personal consequences were dealt with by the individual. I won't bother go into details, as they are a part of history that must be related by those involved.

My future history was assured, though change was on the horizon. I had been the Chief Medic of the Rebellion and with the Rebellion over and now becoming integrated into Agito Makishima's Empire, I had a position there, should I want it. As Fukamachi Shō's acknowledged wife and with him now being known as the Guyver Emperor, I had a position almost anywhere I chose to go as well. If you cannot curry favour with the one you wish to think well of you, curry favour with those close to them. That particular rule is universal.

Thank you for reading. Only one more chapter to come.

Cheers,

Jade