The Prophesy: Book 3 - The Hammer of Atlantis

 

While Ian and his diplomatic team were away in the Amazon basin, other events kept his brothers occupied. The first away team to depart after Ian was led by Sitar, and comprised four dragons plus under his command.

"Good luck with localizing these doomsday devices, son. Keep me posted on the events. Do you have a plan?"

"I did some research on geopolitics of the Ancients; if there are doomsday devices still operational, I expect them to be in some specific locations. The easiest to find will be in the Moscow region and the Beijing region, capitals of respectively Russia and China, or, as we know it, Siam. The next potential area is Jerusalem; although Israel always claimed not to have the Atom God at its fingertips, there are enough indications it was so. I will check other regions of power, such as London, Paris, Delhi, Islamabad, and I asked Ian to keep an eye out for the ruins of Brasilia as he does his diplomatic mission. It must be eaten up by the jungle to a considerable extent but if there is a nuclear device, it is bound to be in that area."

"Why focus on capitals? Maybe the Ancients planned escape routes?"

"Doomsday devices are last resort instruments of destruction dad. They need to be near where the politicians would search for a quick refuge. There may be others, located in their primary refuges, but we cannot locate them effectively because these refuges were ultra-secret. I cannot afford to scan the entire planet for these locations, especially given the extent of the contamination produced by the last nuclear war. It will already be difficult to find these bunkers, given the level of contamination the capitals have sustained. Washton was not the only capital city that got pummelled to oblivion. In fact, it seems they were the primary targets of assault. We still do not understand all that occurred during these events dad; but rest assured of one thing: the violence of the attack and its widespread extent indicates that it was triggered so fast the respective government lost control before any member could put a stop to the madness. How? Why? We do not know much except legends, and you know how trustworthy these are as source of information."

"It seems you have given as much thought to these issues than Ian to his diplomatic mission. Good luck, son."

***

The same day Ian and Sitar left on their respective missions, Harp approached his dad.

"Dad, we need to restart the Ark and Eden projects in earnest. Ian is already sending us a wide variety of animals and plants. We need to widen their living quarters. He is also adding spores and seeds by the barrel. I had to expend the doomsday seed vault by five times its original size already. Also, a constant flow of books documenting the tropical forest ecosystem is being created on the fly, with as objective for us to recreate these conditions should the need come up at a later date. Paschal has done the plans for the adjustments but needs your approval to implement them."

"I give my approval, sight unseen."

"Yamato, Dunbar and Williams also have the list of their teams to go to Africa and examine its ecosystems for interesting specimens. It is extensive and includes sixteen legions. They plan to take no chances with the orcs roaming the continent."

"Double the legions. We can spare thirty-two and not even notice their absence."

"Good, I told him that but he was afraid of asking too much. Nestor will be with him. It's time Grandpa left the comfort of his slippers and his study."

"I doubt Nestor will appreciate."

"I don't care, he needs to practice or he will be a rusty mage shortly."

Harold looked at Harp and wondered what the little devil was up to.

"Stop trying to pull a blanket over my eyes, boy. You should be going, but instead you send Nestor. What is up with this?"

"Dad, we have another important task, and it will take three of direct Royal Atlantean blood to accomplish it. We must judge the Usurper. Alexander is too young, Ian is away, and Sitar just left. It leaves you, mom, Paschal and I. If any of us falls sick during the proceedings, the tribunal and its cause falls off the books. Is that what you wish?"

"Where does that come from son?"

"Dad, we have been operating under Atlantean laws for years now; one special section concerns judgment of royalty, and the Usurper, even if he is not, apparently, Atlantean, falls under these laws. We can judge, with the consent of Jefferson, his uncle, since he got captured by us and is now in our care, and has been for several months already. The rules are clear: The Royal Bench must be occupied at all times by three judges of Royal Atlantean blood. We could ask my newly adopted brothers or sisters, but I doubt they are ready for that. We also must verify with Jefferson and have him swear an oath on blood and magic that he transfers his uncle to our jurisdiction. Personally, I doubt we would need his consent, given that, when he recognized you as Liege Lord, he implicitly and explicitly recognized your supreme authority, but let's stay formal and in line with the books. I have already set the tribunal in the most ancient Throne room of Atlantis, the one that recognized us for whom we were, the Fresco Identification room, which we found at the core of Thebes. Since this ritual dates from the landing of our colonists, it seems fitting."

"Why not wait for everyone's return?"

"The trial can be done without immobilizing everyone. Furthermore, there are such things as reasonable delays. I do not wish to give the Usurper that kind of argument to escape the law. However, I suggest you recall everyone on the Day of Judgment. Plan to ask Jefferson for feedback on the punishment, should the Usurper be condemned. Dad, normally, it is you that should convene the tribunal, since you will preside as Pharaoh. Mother will be on the side, assisting to all deliberations, as a non-voting judge waiting to replace any of us should he become sick. Since this will occupy all our attention, I suggest that the day-to-day management of the kingdom be left to Enron, Thorsten, and Typhoon with the help of their respective dads. Timor and Iridia are already handling the kingdom's security while Sitar is away. Piano, Violin, Banjo, Cello and Viola are all busy getting intensive military training and lessons in leadership. I do not think it is good to interrupt that training for what may be a considerable amount of time. The Usurper has a lot to account for, and we need to review each and every crime in depth, to verify how much was his own making and how much was due to zeal from his sycophants. We cannot, in these circumstances, use blanket condemnations, and it is very clear in the books. Each charge must be clearly documented and verified. I admit it is easier for us then for the Ancients faced with the same task, since we can read the Usurper's mind and compare it with what we discovered while disposing of his cronies. Nonetheless, it may be lengthy, and the Usurper's mind may be so in denial he may escape judgment on some of his latest crimes. Mental illness is a redeeming situation in the books, but only inasmuch that the crimes were committed while the sickness had hold; before or after, a crime is punishable."

"You did your homework, Harp. When should we convene this tribunal?"

"Tomorrow morning. The Usurper may call on a vox legatio, or lawyer, to represent his interest, or you may assign him one. This scenario is most likely, since he knows no one and has been held in total isolation since his capture. I have taken the liberty to get a list of qualified barristers; however, the number of people willing to take the cause was nil. We made it way too clear we do not put up with showmanship in court, and the number of volunteers ready to take what is perceived as a lost cause is zero. Nonetheless, I am sure none of them would dare refuse a royal assignment. I figured the poor sod would wet his pants, so the barristers' row will be sanded to take in the dripping."

"You have a poor image of these people."

"Well, mom, they saw quite a few smoke-blowers get shortened by a head, and they now weight a cause with a precision worthy of a jeweller. They know they have to keep to facts, to the law, and that trying to impress the court can lead to decapitating situations."

"Have you ever freed an accused?"

"Yes mom; the accusations were trumped up charges, and mental scanning revealed the accused was not guilty of what was being laid on his shoulders. It's not to say he had not committed petty crimes, but these did not warrant a passage in front of the Royal Bench. I thanked the barrister for having taken the cause and defended an innocent. And I beheaded the jealous party."

"Ok, Harp, tomorrow it is. Enron, is the triumvirate ready to sit at the helm of Atlantis while we handle that court case?"

"Ready is a big word, my lord. All I can say is we will do our best to honour Atlantis."

"That is all I need to know. As of prime tomorrow morning, I will transfer day-to-day management to Enron, Typhoon and Thorsten. You have until then to decide who will preside the triumvirate. We need to meet in the Throne Room at this time. Enron, Iridia, Typhoon and Thorsten, bring with you your royal heirlooms. Harp, make sure your brothers and sisters are also present and ask them to bring what identifies them, probably their admittance symbol to their respective profession. We will proceed to the Recognition Ritual. Annabelle, have the wolf bitch bring Alexander as well. He can ride and he can stand long enough for the ritual. Do not forget to bring with you his heirloom. Diamondcutter, Amethyst, you are also expected with your own marks. Do not worry. You cannot make an error in selecting your symbol of Recognition. It will jump at your face when the time comes to select it."

***

Dawn was still an hour away when the people involved in the Ceremonial of Recognition walked to the old Throne Room. Behind the throne stood the Fresco, its figures dark as it waited for the Keys.

The first to place his key was Harold, followed by Annabelle, Harp, Paschal, Enron, Samson, and Francesca. As per the previous events, each figurine lighted up, confirming the key's value. As the last key was pushed in its hole, Harold stood up.

"You see these figures around the table: Each represents respectively Sitar, Yamato, Dunbar and Williams. Since they are not here, their figure will stay dark. Ian and Alexander are yet unknown, since Ian did not have a key or, for Alexander, was not born when we last did this. Also unknown to us are the figures that match Diamondcutter, Amethyst, Thorsten, Typhoon's dad, Typhoon, Iridia, Greywolf, and Silver Moon. Also involved are the representatives of the Unicorns, Golden Horn, the Pegasuses represented by Black White-Wing, and our friend the Lance Master of the Centaurs. Also unknown are the figures that will identify Piano, Violin, Banjo, Cello, and Viola. Finally, Annabelle was away with Ian the last time so she too has not been identified. We have no idea what consequences will have the full activation of the Fresco, but let me tell you that it must be monumental. As each of you is identified, you receive your Atlantean memory. From our last experiences, relax! If you fight the transfer, you faint and wake up with a headache worthy of the Gods. Nestor, I took the liberty to invite you to this Ceremonial, even if you had left with the Yamato expedition. Maybe you have more then a simple custodian role to the School of Magic. There is a specific order of activation for the Fresco to achieve its final goal. However, for the Ritual of Recognition, this is not necessary. I see the place for yet more species, which we have yet to identify. I hope we find them soon. We think one is a dwarf orc, but until there is a ritual of Recognition, we cannot be sure. Once you have regained your Atlantean Identity, please state it aloud for the record. Typhoon, it seems that the Ritual was specifically designed for a shape-shifter; the Throne Room may be large, but neither your dad your mom nor you would fit in here. Since you are king of the Dragons, your recognition is all that is needed. Does everyone understand?"

After a nod of assent from everyone, Harold continued, after sitting down.

"Let us begin with the ladies. Amethyst, Queen mother of the Dwarfs, please advance forward and present your heirloom to the Fresco."

Amethyst did as asked; she presented a platinum and gold comb, with an elaborate handle.

"Just leave the heirloom on your hand, do not grip it as you get near. It will fly by magic and take its rightful position on its own," Harold instructed her.

The moment the heirloom was set free, it rose off her right hand and moved to a position before inserting itself in the proper key. A figure in the background of the main table lighted up, and Amethyst almost fell; only a quick reflex from Diamondcutter prevented her fall. After a few minutes, she came to and said, "My name is Hemineth, the Gold Weaver of Atlantis."

Next came Iridia. Her heirloom was a simple hairpin used to hold her circlet. She too fainted, as Timor held her like a precious doll. As she came to, she simply said "Ulvar, the Royal Gardener of Atlantis. No wonder everything I touch turns green!"

Then Annabelle presented her sword of commission, which took its position. She stood still, her eyes closed, and then replied: "I am Queen Rahamaphet of Atlantis, married to Pharaoh Horus, guardian of Life and Lineages. I have access to the entire Tree of Life."

Strangely, it was the furthest figure of the Fresco that lighted up, but the vines that seemed to envelope the scene caringly also turned a vibrant green and gold.

Next in line stood Diamondcutter. Expecting the rather massive dwarf to faint as well, Iridia whispered to Timor to get ready to catch him. The strong grip of the Troll king grabbed Diamondcutter as he became tipsy, but he never fainted. "I am Xirulan, the Diamond Cutter. It is I that sculpted the grown Crystals under the guidance of Harp and Paschal."

Thorsten stepped forward and presented his axe as symbol, and it lodged itself perfectly in the appropriate socket. Thorsten did not even weaver. He stood still and came back to the world with another name, Zerpan, the Lord of the Mines of Atlantis, a very fitting role for the Dwarf King, and Merlin's bonded. This last declaration took everyone by surprise except the two boys.

Typhoon stepped forward and presented a finely sculpted dragon with wings extended. It too took its place and he withstood the onslaught of memories. "I am Yrelevan, the Lord of the Dragons of Atlantis, Protector of the Rock of Atlantis."

Next came Timor, who revealed himself as Seldan, First Father of the Trolls, Lord Protector of the Marches of Atlantis. His figurine was a massive Troll, whose smiling figure showed teeth that sent shivers down the spine of enemies but reassured allies.

"Let us take a few minutes to rest, and then we continue the identification," said Harold.

After ten minutes, Harold called forward Greywolf. He presented a wolf claw. "My lord, this claw is from the leg I lost in the service of Atlantis. It is the only thing I could think of."

"It is fine, my friend. Step forward."

The claw rose and took its place, lighting a very wolf-looking figure in the background that had been sitting, neglected, under the table. "I am Uzmet, esteemed commander of the Wolf Guards of the Wall of Atlantis."

Next came the shifted shape of Black White-Wing. He presented a feather fallen from his wings, and it too was accepted, beside Enron's feather. "I am Osiris, long-range air protector of Atlantis." A bright representation of the Pegasus, nipping on a leaf, shone on the right of the Fresco.

For some strange reason, the Unicorn kept his shape and just inserted his horn in a socket. It sufficed. «I am Siris, the counterpart of Osiris, but in the magical field.» As he removed his horn, a magical duplicate was created, keeping the figure of the Unicorn bright and clear. It presented the figure of a pure white Unicorn, resting its head on the shoulder of Seldan.

"Do not forget to take your heirloom, my friend, once this ritual is over," commented Harold, as he signalled it was the turn of Silver Moon. The Horse simply pressed his moon-shaped mark on the Fresco, and then backed off.

«We already know my ancestry; I am Lord Agramon, Alpha Stallion of Atlantis. I noticed this also created an heirloom for my line.» A superb stallion shone beside the Unicorn figure, looking at a bright red apple with envy.

"We now know your secret wishes, my friend!" said Annabelle as she eyed the composition.

"It is now time for the Fresco to recognize Harp and Sitar's brothers and sisters. Step forward in alphabetical order, please. Banjo?"

Banjo presented his hatchet, the symbol of the apprentice in the woodsmen. It took its position beside another hatchet hole as yet empty. After a few minutes crouched on his legs came the name "I am Ying, the twin brother of another woodsman; we were responsible for the management of the Royal Forests, a precious resource given the severe desertification going on around the Rock of Atlantis."

Cello stepped beside his brother and also presented his hatchet, to be immediately recognized as Yang, the twin of Ying, the Herder of Atlantis.

Piano presented shakily a tiny pearl, which she had rescued from her stay in a house of pleasure. What would she learn about her past? As she woke up in the arms of Viola, she revealed her name to be Fatima, the School Mistress of Atlantis, responsible for all elementary education except military. She let out a breath of relief.

Violin also presented a piece of her past, a knife she had robbed from a client to use against him after he had been a particularly disgusting customer. She found out she was Arima, the School Mistress for Higher Education except when it came to Magic and Military.

"Last, but not least, Viola."

Viola presented his medal of commission in the Army of the now defunct United Kingdoms, and it was accepted. He came back to the world with a name, Bantazar, Master Rider of Atlantis. That discovery explained why he took so easily to horses! His figure stood proudly beside the three equines, one hand petting the back of the Unicorn, and the other offering an apple, what else, to the Pegasus.

"Now, Alexander, you have your heirloom, can you walk to the big wall and present it?"

"Ok, daddy! But you will have to take it back out of the mean wall! I don't want it to eat what's mine!"

The little boy trotted to the wall, and his heirloom, a rather well designed butterfly made of stained glass, literally flew to the wall to insert into its final position. After a few minutes, Alexander said, "Daddy it says my name is Argos, and that I used to navigate under the sea, that I was a submariner. But my name is Alexander and I don't know what a submariner is! I don't want to be named Argos! I like Alexander better!"

"It's all right son, you will always be Alexander to us. It is just the name you went by, a long time ago," replied Annabelle.

"Now, for our guests. Nestor? Would you step forward?"

"As you request, my lord. All I have is my ring."

"Present it to the Fresco."

The ring rose, rotated, and its red diamond, a very rare type of diamond indeed, locked in place. Nestor fell on the ground, and took well over ten minutes to recover his senses.

"It was about time, Nestor. I was going to dump you in the nearest lake!" said Harp.

"I have occupied the role of Chancellor of the Higher School of Magic while you were in training, Merlin. My name is Astragal; it is I that wrote your patent letter recognizing you as Great Grand Master of Magic, because you had surpassed even me, at an age where boys do not have excess hair! You still do! We searched until the last minute for your teacher. You told me you found him in one of the Pyramids, recently. Good riddance! I did not trust him then, and your recent revelations confirmed my mistrust was not unfounded."

"Next, Jefferson. I know you have nothing to offer that greedy wall, so just put your hand on that hand mark. Maybe it is yours!" said Harold.

Jefferson bravely did as asked, afraid the wall would eat his hand, and an elaborate, colourful kirpan materialized in one of the last keyholes. "I am Ulmat, my lord, the Benjamin son of Yamm, the Vice-Roy of Atlantis."

"Welcome back to us, Ulmat, son of Yamm. May I present to you Samson, Yamm, your father of old?" as Samson fainted from shock.

"Should I dunk him?"

"No, Harp, let him conserve his dignity!" ordered Harold as he eyed his son severely.

It took five minutes before Samson woke up and the moment he did, he launched his body toward Jefferson, grabbing him fiercely. "I never thought I would ever see you again, Ulmat. Maybe there is hope for Enron and I to find the others still! I never realized until now how I missed my old family so. I am glad I have Enron now, but you and your brothers and sisters will always occupy a precious place in my heart. How I wish I could have been there in these last instants, to hug you all, but duty had called me to Atlantis' capital."

"It is now sext. I suggest we recover our keys and return to the royal suites for lunch. Before we do, I would like to remind you that the Usurper's trial starts this afternoon, and I still must get Jefferson's formal acceptance to transfer the trial to our jurisdiction. Yes, that explains the disposition of the room, gentlemen. The trial will be held here. Harp, have the barristers present two hours after sext in this room."

***

The afternoon saw the return of everyone to the Throne Room.

"Enron, Thorsten, Typhoon, I hereby transfer to you the charge of Atlantis until this trial is completed. Whom shall preside?"

"We voted Typhoon to preside, Pharaoh of Atlantis. Thorsten will be vice-president, and I, Enron, will act as secretary of the Triumvirate Council of Atlantis. Is this acceptable?"

"Yes it is. May you have peace and render just decisions. Remember, not even I will accept to review what you decide. Be certain of your choices."

"May we retire to our duties?"

"Yes you may."

The three boys left with the Privy Council to the Throne Room of Usual Affairs, the rather vast, no, cavernous, hall where Harold held his court, each carrying a symbol of his charge.

"Jefferson of the House of Davis, adopted son to the House of Atlantis, King of the United Kingdoms of Atlanticus, Ulmat of Atlantis! Please come and stand in front of us."

Jefferson shakily took the required position.

"Do you, Jefferson, of the House of Davis, adopted son to the House of Atlantis, Ulmat of Atlantis, accept to transfer the judgement and fate of one Felix Davis, King Felix the Third, also known under the sobriquet the Usurper, bond by blood of ascendance to you to the first degree from your paternal lineage?"

"Yes, I do," replied Jefferson, firmly.

"Do you have any requests?"

"Yes, two, my Liege Lord."

"State them."

"I wish to be present for the duration of the trial, and I wish to have a say in the nature of the punishment my uncle will get for his crimes."

"We, Pharaoh of Atlantis, hereby grant both requests. However, we will remind you that our decision is final in all matters pertaining to these proceedings."

After Jefferson sat on the right side of the room, at the prosecutors' table, Harold turned toward the bailiff.

"Are the barristers waiting our good will?"

"Yes, behind that side door on the left, my Lord."

"Let the barristers in."

The door opened by itself and five very shaky men walked in the courtroom.

"Greetings, brave souls, we must decide which of you will represent an important client. Before we scan your mind in search of the best candidate, do you have any comments?"

A tall man stepped forward.

"My lord, while we waited, we discussed what we should do, and we came to the conclusion that we all have weaknesses and strengths. We wish to share in the defence of that mysterious client. We accept the consequences collectively as well."

"Your decision honours this tribunal. We accept. Please be seated at the defence desk." Five comfortable seats appeared at an elongating table on the left of the Throne.

"On the opposite side is King Jefferson Davis, Vassal of Atlantis, our adopted son, reincarnate of Ulmat of Atlantis, long lost son of Samson, Yamm, Vice-Roy of Atlantis. He is the prosecutor in this case; for it is just that he represents those that suffered from his uncle, King Felix the Third Davis, better known to all as the Usurper! For this is the name of your client, gentlemen."

The shock was terrible for all barristers, but even more for Jefferson, who had yet to learn his true role in this tribunal! Justice must be rendered to the boy: he handled it in stride, and sat straighter, presenting a face of steel and his eyes shone dangerously, making it clear to the opposing side he would not be a pushover. If his adoptive dad trusted him with this task, he would be up to it! Magic flared brightly around Jefferson, making it difficult for the five barristers to even see his face.

"The tribunal will be presided by myself, assisted by Prince Harp and Prince Paschal; as substitute, Queen Annabelle will be present during the entire process, to replace one of us, should sickness affect the judges. Do you have any questions?"

"Why isn't the Usurper judged by his peers?" asked one of the barristers.

"Where would we find twelve Usurpers?" replied ironically Harold. "Oh, you mean twelve kings? There just aren't enough around to bring twelve to bear on this case. In case you might not be up to date on Atlantean laws in this kind of situation, let me feed you the information. Relax or you will have a searing headache! The Atlantean books of laws are old, written in a language long unspoken, but they are very clear and are devoid of legalese. You have been operating under them for some years already, but I doubt that any of you studied the laws governing regicide, and this is the core issue, as you will learn."

After the information transfer, Harold called for a fifteen minutes recess. Upon resumption of the trial, he ordered:

"Bring the accused to this Court!"

Harp mentally sent a decade to the lowest floor of Thebes, guiding them to the holding cell of the Usurper. Once they had reached the semi-transparent wall that let them see inside but prevented the Usurper from seeing outside, the wall moved aside silently. The Decurion thundered in the deep silence of the room:

"Felix Davis, please accompany us!"

The man literally jumped several feet in the air, as he had been looking at a blank wall, He spun around, and ran across the room, jumping over his bed, and launching himself at the massive Decurion that did not even flinch on impact.

"Finally! Someone! Get me out of here!"

"We are here for that." The Decurion noticed that his client reeked terribly, was totally unkempt, and had tangled hair that went down to the arse.

«My Lord, may I make him presentable? He is a disgrace.»

«Certainly. Take your time. I have sent a mage to help in this task. Bring him to the baths found on the left of his cell. They are unused. The Mage ported directly there.»

«My lord, I wonder what happened to his thumbs and middle fingers? They are raw!»

«We know what happened. Let the mage heal them,» Harp replied, laughing so hard it reached the Decurion through the telepathic link. Harp shared with the court what had transpired, more for the benefit of the barristers, which had no idea of the dirty trick Harp had done on the day of the Usurper's capture.

It took an hour, even with magic, to make Felix the Third Davis presentable. He fought tooth and nail the barber. Apparently he thought cutting his hair would deprive him of his strength!

Once the Usurper was washed, the lice removed, his face shaved, and his dirty grey hair had been set to a reasonable and more even length, he was taken to the court. The long walk, framed by the Royal Guards, proved to the Usurper he had not been forgotten, and not for the right reasons! He was booed, pointed at, and, had it not been for the presence of the mage that shielded the Guard detail and the ex-king, he would have been lynched before reaching the imposing tribunal. The shield prevented a veritable rain of rotten eggs and tomatoes from covering the decade. The ever-increasing crowd following the escort detail alarmed the Decurion. By the time they reached the level of the Throne Room, a legion had been called in reinforcement, led by Theresa. She let the escort pass, and then suddenly closed to passage. The rioters met a wall of lances.

"Go back to your work, now!" she thundered over the roar of the frustrated crowd. "He is brought to Atlantean Justice, and will face its full wrath! Those of you that have suffered will be called to telepathic witness, since we cannot bring each and every one of you in the courtroom! Rest assured you will know when the Pharaoh and the Tribunal of Exception have heard your testimony. Now disperse, before I order the charge!"

Theresa waited five minutes, then the drums began beating a slow cadence, and the legions marched forward, pushing the rioters further down the hallway.

"I mean business! Disperse by order of Harold, Pharaoh of Atlantis, or forfeit your life!"

The second reminder convinced most rioters their place was elsewhere. Only a core number remained, ignoring the warning.

"I have given you ample warning. Charge!"

The drums beat the charge and the legion rammed in the hardnosed group of about fifty. In less then ten seconds, the corridor was cleared, as the rioters were ported to detention cells to await the Throne's good will. Theresa, well aware that the situation was still volatile, stayed on guard near the Throne Room, ready to squelch any more uprising.

«My lord, I have cleared the passage of the most hardened rioters. May I humbly suggest that, until this trial is finished, we run under yellow alert?"

«This is not my decision!» replied Harold.

«It is ours, Theresa. The Triumvirate of Atlantis proclaims yellow alert!» said Typhoon. As soon as the triumvirate declared the heightened alert level, the home legions dispersed in Thebes and became suddenly a lot more present.

«What a collection of ungrateful bastards!» exclaimed Harp.

«It goes further then that, Harp. The leaders forfeited their oath of fealty to the Crown and will be executed in the central plaza of Thebes by morning,» decreed, implacable, Typhoon.

«We vote for this as well,» added Enron and Thorsten.

«So it is proclaimed by unanimous vote of the Triumvirate of Atlantis that the leaders of the riot shall be beheaded at first light, tomorrow morning!» added Typhoon.

"The Triumvirate acts according to the law. We choose well. I can sense they will execute them personally, each taking his share," commented Harold, as Harp explained to the barristers what had unfolded right at the door of the Courtroom.

***

The Usurper was brought in the imposing Courtroom, and led to the defender's bench. The moment he was pushed in it, he found a magical cocoon restrained his movements. There were no straps, no apparent binds, but still he could only move so much.

Felix looked around, trying to figure what was going on. In front of him sat a young child; at his table, three on one side and two on the other, were very official-looking individuals. On his left, raised by a dais, were four high-backed chairs with elaborate designs of wolf heads. Below them, separating his table and the table of the lone boy was a long, wide table, currently empty. On the right side of the dais, sat a man that seemed to be waiting for something. Just as the Usurper was beginning to become agitated, a door to the side of the room that had escaped Felix' examination opened.

"All rise for the Judges of the Imperial Court of Atlantis, presided by King Harold, Thor, Horus, Pharaoh of Atlantis, Primus Legatus of the Legions, Liege Lord of the Elves, the Wolves, the Equines, the Trolls, the Dwarfs, the Fairies, the Dragons, the Pegasuses, and the Unicorns! Accompanied by Harp, Merlin, Prince of Magic of Atlantis, and by Paschal, Prince Imhophet, Great Grand Architect of Atlantis! Accompanying the three judges is Her Royal Highness, Queen Annabelle of Atlantis, acting as substitute."

The four proceeded to climb on the dais, and sat on what Felix finally identified as thrones. The bailiff, thundered, again, just as Harold sat down:

"All sit!"

The Usurper, which had been forced to his feet on the first command, found it impossible to stay standing as he was almost violently pushed back in his seat.

The bailiff stood up and identified the cause presented to the court.

"Case #1 of the Royal High Bench: The Royal Court of the United Kingdoms of Americus, represented by proxy by the Court of Atlantis, as per the sworn Vow of Fealty of its sole legitimate survivor, against the defendant, King Felix the Third Davis."

"I did not swear anything of the sort!" exploded Felix. "This court has no jurisdiction!"

Harold banged his Hammer very lightly on the granite table, as he did not want to reduce it to sand too quickly.

"You did not listen clearly, defendant. It said, and we stress the word, legitimate representative of the Court of Davis."

"But I'm the sole survivor, therefore I am the legitimate representative."

Harold looked at Jefferson, who stood up, asking for the right to speak.

"No, Felix Davis, you are not the sole survivor," said a clear, crystalline, and child-like voice.

Jefferson walked from behind the table and came closer to Felix. As he got closer, Felix bleached, his eyes grew ever wider, and his mouth moved, unable to emit any coherent sound.

"I see you recognize me, uncle Felix. Your executioner enjoyed my body so much he took too much time to kill me. I got rescued, you see. And it is I who swore the Oath of Fealty in the name of the Court of Davis and brought our people under the protection of Atlantis. I am the sole legitimate survivor of the family you so callously disposed of. I am your worse nightmare, uncle! I am the prosecutor in this case! You should close your mouth, your lower jaw is almost falling off!"

"But your oath is worthless, you are a mere child!"

"A mere child, as you say, can swear to Atlantis and Mitsuko, the Sword of Light will recognize it as legitimate, provided it is done with a true heart," replied Harold. "Mitsuko recognized its validity, and so does Atlantis."

"But I do not!"

"That is irrelevant," declared Harold.

"Let me introduce to you the five barristers that will present your defence in this case. All five volunteered. Be thankful for their efforts. All are also versed in Atlantean laws. Since this Court is held under the auspice of the Atlantean Royal Bench, in the capital of Atlantis, by Atlantean judges, it seemed appropriate that the Atlantean laws should reign supreme. Furthermore, by placing the Court of Davis in a relationship of Vassal to Liege, and calling on his Liege Lord to render justice, King Jefferson Davis effectively recognized the primacy of Atlantean Laws over the Laws of the United Kingdoms of Americus." Harp then enumerated the names of the five barristers.

Paschal then took his turn. "Prosecutor, enumerate the charges."

Jefferson stood, and in a very icy voice, began, as he enumerated the charges.

"Felix the Third Davis, you are accused of regicide, of trying to eliminate the legitimate line of the Royal Family of the United Kingdoms of Americus, of murdering all its members except one. You are accused of destroying most of the aristocracy of the United Kingdoms of Americus. You are accused of having ordered the execution of thousands of political opponents. You are accused of having ordered the torture until death of entire families, in an attempt to eliminate their bloodlines. You are accused of condoning the debasement of children by groups of paedophiles. You are accused of having intentionally harboured a group of monstrosities, known as the Crocodile Priests, while knowing of their barbaric rituals. You are accused of neglecting the best interest of the United Kingdoms of Americus by letting the military units degrade to the point they made the lands an easy pick for the Orcs. You have let your political cronies infiltrate every level of government making it totally ineffective. You have dilapidated the Royal Treasury to the point there would have been nothing to pay your mercenaries during the next payroll. You are accused of having left in the hands of fanatics a doomsday device they detonated, destroying Washton. You are accused of endorsing the ransacking of kingdom of which you had taken charge."

"What do you plead?" asked Harold.

One of the barristers stood up and was recognized.

"We cannot represent properly our client if we are not presented with the proofs the prosecution plans on displaying. A fortiori, we cannot suggest any plea to our client given this lack of knowledge."

"It is true. Present your case for the defence."

"May I use telepathic presentations, your Highnesses?"

"Certainly. Telepathic testimony is accepted in this court; there is no reason to prevent its use to transfer to the defence the case. Gentlemen, you will find in front of you a puke bucket and a glass of sweet drink to wash your mouth after. Do not be afraid or ashamed to use it. Telepathic presentation can be quite graphic. Begin the transfer, Jefferson," declared Harp.

The transfer was quick, intense, dirty, and very explicit. The five barristers became whiter then ghosts, puked guts and bowels, and one of them even required resuscitation after a heart attack.

The presiding barrister stood up on shaky legs and asked for a recess.

"We need to review the proof before suggesting anything to our client."

"How much time would you need?" asked Harp.

"A month, your highness."

"Please report to tessaract twelve, level five. It will let you review the case. You will feel a month has passed, but outside, it will have been a single day."

"Legionnaires, escort the accused to the antechamber. I will then port him to his cell. Felix Davis, take care of your body. Looking like a pig out of the pigpen will not make us pity you. This court is adjourned until tierce tomorrow." As Harold and the other judges stood, the bailiff clamoured for everyone to stand, and once the judges had left, Felix was escorted to the antechamber before being teleported to the now too familiar cell. The barristers were guided by a centurion to their destination, and there, found five chairs, a legal library, a table, scrolls, pens and ink.

«To review the case, sit in the chairs, close your eyes, and you will have access to all the prosecutor's documents and testimony,» Harp informed them. «The only thing you do not have access is to the prosecutor's strategy to present his case to the judges. Neither do the judges. I have seen to this firewall, and it is tighter then a dead corpse's lips.»

«Prince Harp, please refrain from using that image! I may have nightmares for the rest of my life and throw up at the mere sight of meat!» said one of the lawyers.

***

The next morning, the Court reconvened, and Felix was ported directly to its antechamber. Once everything was set, Harold asked:

"Have you had sufficient time to study the case?"

"Yes, your Highness."

"And what would you recommend your client plead?"

"Guilty on some charges, but mental alienation on others. It became apparent to us as we studied the flow of events that our client progressively lost contact with reality."

"You are aware that your client will have to testify telepathically, and that he cannot, under these circumstances, plead mental alienation when it was not the case at the time the crimes were committed?"

"Yes, your highness. We hope that telepathic scanning will prove his mental state was improper to rule in some circumstances, while he retained some functionality in other circumstances and therefore must be held accountable for these specific events."

"Have you discussed this course of action with your client?"

"Yes, Your highness. We had him brought to us immediately after the prosecutor presented the facts."

"Did he agree to this course of action?"

"No, your highness. He pleads innocence, and improper jurisdiction. We told him that the second point was moot, given yesterday's decision by your highness, but he still holds to his views. We tried to reason with him, but he refuses to concede anything."

"Then so be it. You did your best. Felix Davis, stand."

After a kick in the butt by the constraining magic, the accused stood.

"What do you plead to the accusations enumerated by the Prosecution yesterday?"

"Not guilty on all charges. And I still do not recognize your authority!"

"The defender's plea is dully recorded. Prosecution, begin presenting your case."

Jefferson was systematic and thorough in his presentation. He extracted from his own memory what he remembered of his family's murder, exposed every gory detail of the abuse he witnessed done to his family and to himself. Then he called on the memory of those that had been rescued from the prisons, and then from the memory of those that had executed the rescues. Nothing escaped his scrutiny; all the facts came to light. As witnesses were cleansed of their memories, they felt relief, and understood Theresa's promise.

Meanwhile the Usurper grinned, even laughed at some of the gruesome acts done in his name. His attitude was irritating both the defence and the judges, but they kept quiet.

After five days of testimony, Jefferson declared his case closed.

"The Defence has the floor," declared Harold.

"Your highness, our only witness is the defendant. However we do not have the capacity to delve in his mind without assist."

"I figured as much. Welcome Nestor, the Chancellor of the School of Magic. Nestor, bridge these individuals to the mind of the defender."

"As you request, My Lord. Anything for some fresh air!"

"I gather the trip to Africa is a hot topic?"

"You can say that again!"

The life of one Felix Davis unfolded for all to see, from his birth to his imprisonment within the lowest floor of Thebes. Every day, every decision was reviewed, as he and the Court relived his life from day one. It all added up to one thing: the man had been evil from the moment he realized he was distinct from his environment. He had kept trying to hurt his brothers and sisters all the time, was viciously jealous of anyone having anything; he was greedy, avaricious, and devious. If there was a crime to commit, he was there to give it a special twist to make it worse for the victim. Every thought, every scheme, every enjoyment of the misery of others were shown in broad daylight. Even the reaction to the events he had not directly witnessed, including the abuse of his nephew, were shown. He showed no remorse, enjoying vicariously the benefit of the tortures imposed to others by his cronies.

As the defence, demoralized, rested its case, Harold called for a recess until the next morning. The trial had been going on for fifteen days already, and it was already nones.

"Will the defence and the prosecution be ready to plead at tierce tomorrow morning?"

"Yes your highness," Jefferson answered.

After consulting with each other, the lead barrister stood, and replied:

"Can we visit the tessaract again, your highness? We find the situation extremely unusual, and we have a difficult time to find arguments."

"Certainly. Harp? Is it available?"

"Yes. It was put aside specifically for this cause."

"Then we will be ready tomorrow, your highness."

***

The next morning, Jefferson presented his case with poignant clarity, describing the distress caused by Felix Davis, the extent of his depravity and depredation on his kingdom, and requiring that justice be done. By sext he rested his case.

The court recessed for lunch, and reconvened an hour later. It was then the turn of the five barristers to present their case. They sustained that Felix Davis was a sociopath unable to feel empathy for his victims. They knew this was thin ice, given what the telepathic scan had revealed of the true nature of the Usurper, but it was the only thing they could hold on to.

As they concluded their pleads, it was an hour before vespers and Harold called for a recess of the Court.

"This court will reconvene in seven days, so the judges can review the facts presented in front of them, to render their verdict. Prince Jefferson, as has been the case for the duration of this trial please abstain from talking to us. We know it is hard on you, but it is necessary to maintain the impartiality of the Court. It is almost over. Barristers, you did a fine job. You are expected back in court when it reconvenes to first hear the verdict, and second, should the defendant be found guilty, to plead his sentence. Also, as has been the case during the trial, you shall not contact the prosecutor, nor he you. We would see very crossly behind the Court bargaining for any reason whatsoever. Court dismissed."

***

The week passed slowly, and at the reopening of the session, the bailiff read the accusations one by one. As each one was named, Harold declared the defendant guilty. He then explained the tribunal's decisions.

"We understand the defence's arguments pertaining the mental state of the accused. However, we believe that it is not necessary to feel empathy to understand the difference between good and evil. The defendant may be unable to feel vicariously what the others felt, but he certainly enjoyed what he did, and relished the feeling of power it gave him over his victims. He knew what he did was wrong, but he nonetheless continued doing it, refining his methods as time passed. Even his bout at crying when he was arrested was more a trick to try and escape justice then true remorse for what he did; a fear for himself rather then a feeling of guilt. This individual is a danger to society and will stay so for the duration of his natural life. He is as soul-less as the fanatics that guarded the doomsday device under Washton. During the proceedings, the defendant showed no sign of remorse, even enjoying what was projected in his head. The more gory the more enjoyment he showed. Needless to say, this did not predispose this Court to show mercy."

"It is now sext, we will reconvene tomorrow at tierce to hear your requests and pleads for sentencing. Again the rules pertaining to separation of all parties stand until this trial concludes! Court dismissed!"

***

The next morning, the first to present their plead were the defence. They required life imprisonment without possibility of parole. Jefferson was quiet as he heard the request. Then he stood up and looking at the three judges began:

"I, too, require life imprisonment, but with an additional clause, that the accused be exposed to what the others felt. The defence pleaded he could not feel what the others felt. Let him do so. Let him live what the others lived, sixteen hours a day, every day of his natural life."

"The prosecution is requiring physical torture of our client! We must object!" said the leading barrister.

"Oh, you are mistaken. He will only feel what the others felt. He will not lose a drop of fluid, except when he dumps and pees out of pain. It is far worse then simple physical torture, which would kill him, it is mental torture, applied directly to his consciousness, to his upper nervous system. He will wish every day to die, but every day, he will not."

Jefferson turned and looked at his uncle.

"You will wish to escape that prison, uncle Felix, and maybe one day you will discover our heritage and escape the confines of that cell, but mark my words, the real prison will be in your head, and you will carry it everywhere you go."

The judges looked at Jefferson with awe: where was the charming little boy of old? This was far worse then what even they had anticipated.

"Are you sure it is what you wish, Jefferson?"

"Yes, my Liege Lord. As I relived the events this individual caused and listened to the pleading of the defence, the solution to the issue at hand became apparent in my eyes: Since he cannot experience what others feel vicariously, let him experience it in his mind as if he was receiving the treatments he inflicted or had his minions inflict to others. I feel sorry for my uncle, even with all the hardship I had to endure; but nonetheless, justice must be rendered. By this method your hands are free of his blood, mine as well, and he gets just punishment for his crimes. It is not exactly an eye for an eye, but almost so. It is a thousand eyes for a thousand eyes."

"We will render our decision tomorrow morning at tierce. By order of this court all members of the royal family must be present for this judgement. Court dismissed."

***

The next morning, the court was full, and everyone was waiting for the judges to make their appearance. At exactly tierce, the four judges walked in the Court in full regalia. Nothing could be read from their closed expression, and the atmosphere was colder then the Antarctic in the middle of winter.

As the noise vanished after the seating, Harold looked at Felix Davis.

"We will read the decision of the court. Rise!"

Felix Davis stood up, forced once again into compliance by the binding magical force field.

"The Court, unanimously we must add, endorses the recommendation of the prosecution. We therefore condemn you, Felix Davis, to relive the consequences of your actions on others until the natural end of your life, starting at prime tomorrow morning. Enjoy your last day of peace. Case closed! Court dismissed!"

Harold gently dropped his Hammer on the rocky desk, which, this time, shattered to a fine black dust, as Magic recorded the condemnation and the Shield of Thor tolled in resonance.

Ian and his team hopped back to the Amazon to complete their task, as did those other away teams.

***

Felix Davis had dismissed the condemnation as all smoke and no substance. But the next morning brought its reality to bear with a vengeance as he was castrated, chastised, skinned, broken in every bone, and his eyes felt like they were being gouged; he felt his body rip, his bowels extracted, every overture of his body ripped wider then nature had planned for them. Far worse, the Usurper realized he should long have been unconscious or dead, but he could not benefit of these small mercies of life. As he watched through clear eyes on a mirror, he realised too that his body was perfectly intact, that all the degradation he felt were in his mind alone. Just as he realized this he felt the touch of fire, the burn of red-hot instruments of torture, and yet nothing transpired on his body, not even a red welt! It lasted for sixteen hours, and by then the Usurper begged for death, which did not come.

The night came and his tortured mind dreaded the morning. By matins he was trying to smash his head on anything, but the padded room not only stifled his cries, but also prevented his suicide.

The events repeated themselves, varying in nature but always extremely unpleasant, for fifteen days before the Usurper finally found the energy to port outside of his cell, and away from Thebes. However, as Jefferson had predicted, the prison followed him wherever he went, and reinstated itself every morning. Felix began porting everywhere and anywhere, in an effort to run away from his punishment. He ported several times pr hour, as each port temporarily relieved the pain, but each time he materialized, it reinstated itself. He ported in the middle of an orc camp barely escaping their crock-pot; he ported amongst feasting fire ants, and had a close call with a meat-eating plant. He found himself in the middle of a school of Megalodons and almost ended as an appetizer. His final mistake was porting once again without thinking and ending in a pool of lava. His coffin had the colour of his life: blood red.

"The Usurper has been, dad," Jefferson said, as the man self-cremated in the lava. May his sins never be forgotten, but forgiven."

Follow our friends in the next book of this series: Armageddon.