Power Play--Part I

Paul placed a final suit of clothes in the suitcase and closed it. With a sigh, he crossed the bedroom and gave the heavy bag to the waiting servant at the door. “Please tell Vernon that it will be a few minutes more before our departure,” he asked the young man.

The servant bowed and accepted the suitcase. “As you wish, Your Highness.” He turned and immediately went off on the errands.

Paul closed the door and locked it. He turned and studied the figure sitting on the bed. He crossed the room and sat down beside her, wrapping her in a fierce embrace.

“I wish you didn’t have to go,” Leda said softly, wrapping her arms just as tightly around him in turn.

He kissed the top of her head and began to stroke her hair. “I know, love. I wish I didn’t have to go, either.”

“We just got back from our honeymoon, Paul,” she stated. “Surely this can wait.”

“Leda, we’ve already discussed this,” he said with a sigh. “If we don’t address the Council and its demands soon, the situation will only get worse.”

“I’ve been dealing with these men for most of my life. Let me go with you.”

Paul smiled and placed his forehead against hers. “I would love it if you did, but there are things that need to be done here at the palace that only you can do. I’ll go and address the Council and be back before you know it.”

Leda laughed. “Spoken like a true novice. Those windbags will have you there until next week.”

“Have a little more faith in me, my lady,” he chided gently.

“Just make sure we have a kingdom to rule when you return.”

The joking light in her eyes faded and her arms tightened around him again. “I’m going to miss you so much.”

“I’ll miss you more,” he teased. “Don’t worry, Leda. I won’t be able to stay away for too long. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

“You’d better be.”

The pair reluctantly rose to their feet, realizing that the time for his departure was very near. Giving in, Paul pulled his wife into another hug, trying to memorize this new feeling for the lonely nights ahead. He have her a kiss and then slowly pulled away.

“Will you see me off?”

She nodded. “I love you, Paul.”

He smiled. “I love you, too, Leda. The sooner I leave, the sooner I’ll be back.”

“That had better be a promise.”

* * * * *

Paul held both of Leda’s hands in his as they stood on the platform beside the transport ship. The Council was meeting in Hydale, a moderately sized city a few hours’ journey away. Both knew that he would have to leave soon if he was going to arrive on schedule.

He gave her a brief but sincere kiss. “I’ll call you every night I’m gone,” he promised, resting his forehead against hers.

“I’ll hold you to that,” she replied. She kissed him and then reluctantly released his hand, stepping back. “If you don’t go now, you’ll be late and I may order you to stay.”

“Your wish is my command, my lady,” he intoned jokingly. “I’ll be back in a few days, love. Take care.”

“Be careful,” she said, watching he board the transport. He paused at the entrance and gave her a quick wave. Then, he disappeared inside.

The advisors and the others accompanying the young prince began to board. Each bowed to their princess. She wished each a pleasant journey, and each thanked her and then boarded. The final person to board was Benedict Martin, a talented young man who was quickly gaining the trust of the prince and princess.

“Benedict, I have a favor to ask of you,” the princess stated as he kissed the back of her hand as he bowed.

“Anything, Your Highness,” he replied readily.

“You must be discreet in this matter. I want you to keep me informed of my husband’s meetings with the Council. There will be a few who will try to test his power.”

“I will be the soul of discretion, Your Highness,” he said, his green eyes twinkling.

Leda smiled. “I trust you will, Benedict. Safe journey, sir.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

The young man boarded the transport. A two of the palace technicians closed the doorway and ensured it was closed. One of the guards stepped forward and touched her arm.

“It appears they are ready to take off, Your Highness,” he stated. “You may wish to step back.”

With a nod, she complied. She watched the vehicle rise gracefully into the air and glide out of the hangar. She stayed until the transport was long out of sight.

Giving herself a mental shake, Leda turned and headed back into the palace. Paul had been truthful when he said that there were matters at the palace that required her specific attention. As the newly crowned Princess of Jupiter, she could not let herself be idle.

* * * * *

After about an hour into the journey, Paul closed his file he was studying. He glanced around the cabin and smiled when he noticed the vacant seat across from Benedict. ‘Just the person I wanted to talk to anyway,’ he thought, crossing the cabin.

The youngest member of his staff looked up from the document he was reading. Something unreadable flashed in Benedict’s eye when he realized it was the Prince of Jupiter standing in front of him. The two exchanged smiles.

“May I?” Paul asked, gesturing to the empty seat.

“Of course, Your Highness,” Benedict replied, rising to bow.

“Please, stay seated,” Paul said, sitting down. “It still seems odd for me to be called that.”

“I can only imagine, Your Highness.”

Both smiles broadened at the utterance at the formal address. Paul leaned back into the chair. He studied the younger man for a moment as Benedict put his documents away.

“I understand that we were slightly delayed because of you exchange with Leda,” Paul stated. “What were you discussing?”

“Mere pleasantries, Your Highness,” Benedict replied.

Paul’s smile broadened. “Excuse me, Benedict, but my wife rarely resorts to pleasantries. Do you care to tell me what Leda asked you to do?”

Benedict bowed his head. “I’m sorry, Your Highness, but I am not at liberty to discuss that matter. I’m afraid that you must ask the princess herself.”

Paul’s laugh startled Benedict as the prince gave him a warm smile. Seeing the younger man’s uneasy expression, Paul sobered. However, there was still a sparkle in his light blue eyes.

“You will do quite well,” Paul stated, rising from the chair. “Please do whatever my wife asked you to do. I will not bother you any further.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

As he took his original seat, Paul made a mental note to discuss the nature of Benedict’s mission with his overprotective wife that night. However, he didn’t dwell on the matter long. With a sigh, he continued reviewing some proposals for his meeting with the Mayoral Council.

* * * * *

The Mayoral Council allowed the local leaders of Jupiter to discuss issues with one another and the current Prince or Princess of Jupiter. Cities of a certain size sent their mayors directly to the council, giving the council its name. The remainder of the planet was divided into a number of districts and a representative was elected to represent each one. These representatives bore the title of mayor as well.

In the period after Lita’s death and before Leda and Paul’s rather recent coronation, Leda represented the throne of Jupiter. Paul had accompanied her during a couple of these meetings. Yet, he had never sat in on an actual meeting.

“This will definitely be an experience,” Paul murmured.

“Did you say something, Your Highness?” an aide asked.

“No, not really,” he replied.

The transport ship made a smooth landing. As the vehicle came to a stop, Paul gathered his personal belongings. He waved away an aide who tried to carry them for him.

He disembarked from the vehicle, grateful that only a handful of dignitaries were waiting for him and his staff. An older woman in a crisp green business pants suit stepped forward. She bowed to the Prince as he neared.

“Welcome to Hydale, Your Highness,” she greeted. “My name is Alia Grey, Mayor of Hydale. Let me welcome you and your staff to our city and the Council meeting.”

Paul shook her hand. “Thank you, Mayor Grey. It is a pleasure to meet you.”

“I’m sure that you and your staff will like to see your accommodations. If you will allow me, Michael Johansen, the president of the hotel, will like to escort you there.”

“That would be wonderful,” Paul replied, shaking Mr. Johansen’s hand. “I hope to see you at the Council meeting, Mayor Grey.”

She bowed. “Until then, Your Highness.”

* * * *

Paul dumped his bags on the rather large bed of his room. His suite had a receiving room, a small office, a kitchenette, a spacious bedroom, and a large bathroom. He knew that Mr. Johansen and his staff were trying to impress him, and they had done their jobs well.

He quickly put away his things. He had checked the schedule earlier, grateful to find the first official gathering was a breakfast the next morning. He looked forward to a quiet dinner in his room and the opportunity to go over some additional proposals. However, he was dying to call Leda. He smiled as her face appeared on the screen.

“Paul!” she cried happily.

“Hey, beautiful. Miss me much?”

Her smile grew. “Whatever gave you that idea.”

“I’ve missed you already,” he confessed.

“I know. I’ve missed you.” She forced herself to brighten again. “So, have they attacked you yet?”

“Everyone has been very nice. My suite is wonderful.”

“Everything still feels odd, huh?”

He shrugged. “A guy could get use to this kind of treatment, although everyone is taking this ‘Your Highness’ thing a little far for my liking.”

“I’m afraid that’s part of the deal, Paul.”

“Leda, what did you ask Benedict to do?”

“Hmm?”

Paul sighed. “The innocent look is not working, Leda. I know you too well.”

She just smiled into the screen.

“Leda?”

She rolled her eyes and sighed. “Just let me indulge in my overprotective tendencies, Paul. Okay? Benedict is not doing anything underhanded or will embarrass you. I promise you that.”

Suddenly, realization dawned in her eyes and she giggled.

“What?” Paul asked.

She shook her head and quickly regained her composure. “He didn’t tell you, did he? You asked Benedict and he wouldn’t give you an answer.”

“You’re right,” he admitted grudgingly. “He asked that I discuss it with you instead. I have a feeling that this man has a promising future ahead of him.”

“I like him,” Leda offered happily.

The laughing mood died as they stared at each other through the screen.

“I miss you, but I need to go now,” Leda said reluctantly.

“I know, love. I need to go as well. I’ll talk to you tomorrow night. I love you, Leda.”

“I love you, too, Paul.”

The two gazed at each other for a few more seconds. “I’ll see you in a few days, love. Take care.”

“You, too, Paul.” Then, Leda reluctantly broke the connection.

He rose from his chair and stretched, his eyes falling on the large bed he would sleep alone in that night and the few nights ahead. He wished desperately for a moment that she was there, but he realized that this was a taste of their life together. With a sigh, he reached for the room service menu and tried to decide what he would have for dinner.


Part I Paul placed a final suit of clothes in the suitcase and closed it. With a sigh, he crossed the bedroom and gave the heavy bag to the waiting servant at the door. “Please tell Vernon that it will be a few minutes more before our departure,” he asked the young man. The servant bowed and accepted the suitcase. “As you wish, Your Highness.” He turned and immediately went off on the errands. Paul closed the door and locked it. He turned and studied the figure sitting on the bed. He crossed the room and sat down beside her, wrapping her in a fierce embrace. “I wish you didn’t have to go,” Leda said softly, wrapping her arms just as tightly around him in turn. He kissed the top of her head and began to stroke her hair. “I know, love. I wish I didn’t have to go, either.” “We just got back from our honeymoon, Paul,” she stated. “Surely this can wait.” “Leda, we’ve already discussed this,” he said with a sigh. “If we don’t address the Council and its demands soon, the situation will only get worse.” “I’ve been dealing with these men for most of my life. Let me go with you.” Paul smiled and placed his forehead against hers. “I would love it if you did, but there are things that need to be done here at the palace that only you can do. I’ll go and address the Council and be back before you know it.” Leda laughed. “Spoken like a true novice. Those windbags will have you there until next week.” “Have a little more faith in me, my lady,” he chided gently. “Just make sure we have a kingdom to rule when you return.” The joking light in her eyes faded and her arms tightened around him again. “I’m going to miss you so much.” “I’ll miss you more,” he teased. “Don’t worry, Leda. I won’t be able to stay away for too long. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” “You’d better be.” The pair reluctantly rose to their feet, realizing that the time for his departure was very near. Giving in, Paul pulled his wife into another hug, trying to memorize this new feeling for the lonely nights ahead. He have her a kiss and then slowly pulled away. “Will you see me off?” She nodded. “I love you, Paul.” He smiled. “I love you, too, Leda. The sooner I leave, the sooner I’ll be back.” “That had better be a promise.” * * * * * Paul held both of Leda’s hands in his as they stood on the platform beside the transport ship. The Council was meeting in Hydale, a moderately sized city a few hours’ journey away. Both knew that he would have to leave soon if he was going to arrive on schedule. He gave her a brief but sincere kiss. “I’ll call you every night I’m gone,” he promised, resting his forehead against hers. “I’ll hold you to that,” she replied. She kissed him and then reluctantly released his hand, stepping back. “If you don’t go now, you’ll be late and I may order you to stay.” “Your wish is my command, my lady,” he intoned jokingly. “I’ll be back in a few days, love. Take care.” “Be careful,” she said, watching he board the transport. He paused at the entrance and gave her a quick wave. Then, he disappeared inside. The advisors and the others accompanying the young prince began to board. Each bowed to their princess. She wished each a pleasant journey, and each thanked her and then boarded. The final person to board was Benedict Martin, a talented young man who was quickly gaining the trust of the prince and princess. “Benedict, I have a favor to ask of you,” the princess stated as he kissed the back of her hand as he bowed. “Anything, Your Highness,” he replied readily. “You must be discreet in this matter. I want you to keep me informed of my husband’s meetings with the Council. There will be a few who will try to test his power.” “I will be the soul of discretion, Your Highness,” he said, his green eyes twinkling. Leda smiled. “I trust you will, Benedict. Safe journey, sir.” “Thank you, Your Highness.” The young man boarded the transport. A two of the palace technicians closed the doorway and ensured it was closed. One of the guards stepped forward and touched her arm. “It appears they are ready to take off, Your Highness,” he stated. “You may wish to step back.” With a nod, she complied. She watched the vehicle rise gracefully into the air and glide out of the hangar. She stayed until the transport was long out of sight. Giving herself a mental shake, Leda turned and headed back into the palace. Paul had been truthful when he said that there were matters at the palace that required her specific attention. As the newly crowned Princess of Jupiter, she could not let herself be idle. * * * * * After about an hour into the journey, Paul closed his file he was studying. He glanced around the cabin and smiled when he noticed the vacant seat across from Benedict. ‘Just the person I wanted to talk to anyway,’ he thought, crossing the cabin. The youngest member of his staff looked up from the document he was reading. Something unreadable flashed in Benedict’s eye when he realized it was the Prince of Jupiter standing in front of him. The two exchanged smiles. “May I?” Paul asked, gesturing to the empty seat. “Of course, Your Highness,” Benedict replied, rising to bow. “Please, stay seated,” Paul said, sitting down. “It still seems odd for me to be called that.” “I can only imagine, Your Highness.” Both smiles broadened at the utterance at the formal address. Paul leaned back into the chair. He studied the younger man for a moment as Benedict put his documents away. “I understand that we were slightly delayed because of you exchange with Leda,” Paul stated. “What were you discussing?” “Mere pleasantries, Your Highness,” Benedict replied. Paul’s smile broadened. “Excuse me, Benedict, but my wife rarely resorts to pleasantries. Do you care to tell me what Leda asked you to do?” Benedict bowed his head. “I’m sorry, Your Highness, but I am not at liberty to discuss that matter. I’m afraid that you must ask the princess herself.” Paul’s laugh startled Benedict as the prince gave him a warm smile. Seeing the younger man’s uneasy expression, Paul sobered. However, there was still a sparkle in his light blue eyes. “You will do quite well,” Paul stated, rising from the chair. “Please do whatever my wife asked you to do. I will not bother you any further.” “Thank you, Your Highness.” As he took his original seat, Paul made a mental note to discuss the nature of Benedict’s mission with his overprotective wife that night. However, he didn’t dwell on the matter long. With a sigh, he continued reviewing some proposals for his meeting with the Mayoral Council. * * * * * The Mayoral Council allowed the local leaders of Jupiter to discuss issues with one another and the current Prince or Princess of Jupiter. Cities of a certain size sent their mayors directly to the council, giving the council its name. The remainder of the planet was divided into a number of districts and a representative was elected to represent each one. These representatives bore the title of mayor as well. In the period after Lita’s death and before Leda and Paul’s rather recent coronation, Leda represented the throne of Jupiter. Paul had accompanied her during a couple of these meetings. Yet, he had never sat in on an actual meeting. “This will definitely be an experience,” Paul murmured. “Did you say something, Your Highness?” an aide asked. “No, not really,” he replied. The transport ship made a smooth landing. As the vehicle came to a stop, Paul gathered his personal belongings. He waved away an aide who tried to carry them for him. He disembarked from the vehicle, grateful that only a handful of dignitaries were waiting for him and his staff. An older woman in a crisp green business pants suit stepped forward. She bowed to the Prince as he neared. “Welcome to Hydale, Your Highness,” she greeted. “My name is Alia Grey, Mayor of Hydale. Let me welcome you and your staff to our city and the Council meeting.” Paul shook her hand. “Thank you, Mayor Grey. It is a pleasure to meet you.” “I’m sure that you and your staff will like to see your accommodations. If you will allow me, Michael Johansen, the president of the hotel, will like to escort you there.” “That would be wonderful,” Paul replied, shaking Mr. Johansen’s hand. “I hope to see you at the Council meeting, Mayor Grey.” She bowed. “Until then, Your Highness.” * * * * Paul dumped his bags on the rather large bed of his room. His suite had a receiving room, a small office, a kitchenette, a spacious bedroom, and a large bathroom. He knew that Mr. Johansen and his staff were trying to impress him, and they had done their jobs well. He quickly put away his things. He had checked the schedule earlier, grateful to find the first official gathering was a breakfast the next morning. He looked forward to a quiet dinner in his room and the opportunity to go over some additional proposals. However, he was dying to call Leda. He smiled as her face appeared on the screen. “Paul!” she cried happily. “Hey, beautiful. Miss me much?” Her smile grew. “Whatever gave you that idea.” “I’ve missed you already,” he confessed. “I know. I’ve missed you.” She forced herself to brighten again. “So, have they attacked you yet?” “Everyone has been very nice. My suite is wonderful.” “Everything still feels odd, huh?” He shrugged. “A guy could get use to this kind of treatment, although everyone is taking this ‘Your Highness’ thing a little far for my liking.” “I’m afraid that’s part of the deal, Paul.” “Leda, what did you ask Benedict to do?” “Hmm?” Paul sighed. “The innocent look is not working, Leda. I know you too well.” She just smiled into the screen. “Leda?” She rolled her eyes and sighed. “Just let me indulge in my overprotective tendencies, Paul. Okay? Benedict is not doing anything underhanded or will embarrass you. I promise you that.” Suddenly, realization dawned in her eyes and she giggled. “What?” Paul asked. She shook her head and quickly regained her composure. “He didn’t tell you, did he? You asked Benedict and he wouldn’t give you an answer.” “You’re right,” he admitted grudgingly. “He asked that I discuss it with you instead. I have a feeling that this man has a promising future ahead of him.” “I like him,” Leda offered happily. The laughing mood died as they stared at each other through the screen. “I miss you, but I need to go now,” Leda said reluctantly. “I know, love. I need to go as well. I’ll talk to you tomorrow night. I love you, Leda.” “I love you, too, Paul.” The two gazed at each other for a few more seconds. “I’ll see you in a few days, love. Take care.” “You, too, Paul.” Then, Leda reluctantly broke the connection. He rose from his chair and stretched, his eyes falling on the large bed he would sleep alone in that night and the few nights ahead. He wished desperately for a moment that she was there, but he realized that this was a taste of their life together. With a sigh, he reached for the room service menu and tried to decide what he would have for dinner.


Power Play--Part 2 Chronicles Main Page