Author: Titania
Title:Two Sides to Every Coin
Rating: PG
Orginal Story
TWO SIDES TO EVERY COIN
A peaceful day - something to be cherished on Odessia.
Casey hated to look at the black blast marks on the ground and wanted no part of the war. He loved life more than anything. So much of it had been lost in this war, and he wasn't about to cause more deaths. As he walked, he could see his abode on the hill and smiled. It was something most take for granted, but on Odessia, you could just as soon find your home blown away. He stopped, closed his violet eyes and sniffed the air. He never tired of the pleasant faint sweet soapy tar-like smell.
He had been born during the war. His father, Corillian had been killed defending Odessia and mother, Harmonia had died from a disease, spread by the Odessians enemies, the Tyronnians. Casey had been immune. He'd been found a terrified shivering wreck, by Alpha, an elder under a pile of thick leaf mulch. He'd cherished Casey as if he were his own. Alpha refused to bring another child into this war torn world, but felt he couldn't turn little Casey away, and although the Tyronnians had been responsible for the deaths of his parents, Casey refused to carry hatreds that would only prolong the war.
When he was of age, Casey moved to live by himself. He would always be grateful for what Alpha had taught and given him - the respect and love of all life. As difficult as it was, Casey tried to forgive the Tyronnians.
He sat down in the soft grass. A silky blue wavebird perched on his shoulder. Casey smiled and stroked it. The animals of Odessia had nothing to fear from the inhabitants. Everyone lived in harmony and even though that peace had been shattered by the war, Odessians stuck together. They'd never forget their peaceful past and always dreamed it would come anew. The bird flew off, chirping as it went, shimmering in the sunlight. Casey stood, continued up the small hill to his house and entered, remembering the days where doors could be left open and not be bolted up, like the once unnecessary Ammunition Fort, adjacent to Odessia Headquarters.
Casey entered, a black furball bounded at him.
"Electra!" he exclaimed, lovingly rubbing the small furry Zakart.
Electra mewed.
"I bet you're hungry - Hey, so'm I for that matter ..." He smiled, opened a storage compartment and pulled out a conglomeration of Odessian vegetables, which he proceeded to cut and boil, all the while, Electra rubbing against his legs.
About six months ago, Casey had found her by the swamp, once Sparkling Crystal River. The Tyronnians had long since left, leaving this once beautiful land a scorched, murky wasteland. Casey heard someone in the mulch and immediately began to dig. It reminded him of his ordeal. A dirty face of a Zakart peered out at him, yellow eyes full of terror. At first it tried to scratch and bite him, but soon realised the stranger bore her no harm. Casey had taken her back to his home, washed and dried her, dressed her wounds, fed and cared for her until she was healthy again. He let the furball go back into the wilderness, but she had chosen to stay with him, for which Casey had been grateful. He'd been without companionship since the Tyronnians murdered his young love and would be mate four years ago. Casey shut that out of his mind.
"All right, all right ..." he smiled, feeding Electra, a piece of sea vegetable - Casey's personal favourite. Electra's too apparently! There weren't any carnivorous animals on Odessia and all Odessians were vegetarian. Casey was hungry after he'd finished, but provisions were scarce, hard to come by and one must be conservative in a war.
After dinner, Casey showered quickly. Cold showers were not pleasant, particularly in the cold seasons, but water was scarce and electricity must be used sparingly. A long steaming soak in a bubbled bathtub was a luxury Casey only dreamed about.
He lay awake in his bed, silently begging the Universe to bring an end to this terrible war, and like many nights, softly cried himself to sleep.
Just after dawn, a thunder clap woke him. But hearing it a second time, Casey knew it was not thunder. He darted to the window and saw terrifying vessels firing relentlessly on his village. He opened his mouth in shock - he always knew it could happen at any time, but always hoped it never would. He stared in horror as terrified Odessians frantically tried to escape the bombings, only to be massacred by the fire from the Tyronnian crafts. Casey's throat became taut with terror and empathy with his people. He desperately wanted to help, but the most lethal weapon he had was a vegetable knife. Tyronnians never accepted surrender. Death, destruction, violence and control were all they seemed to care for.
Casey knew it wouldn't be long before they spotted his house. As much as he wanted to believe he was safe, it was only a delusion, and atop a hill, his dwelling was a conspicuous target. He felt the ground shake beneath him and bolted for the door. Casey whirled and screamed Electra's name, only to see a slab of glass slice through her and Electra thud to the floor in a pool of blood. Casey knew there was nothing he could do. Holding his pain, he ran, slid down the East side of the hill, fled into the dark forest and looked back, only to see blasts from the Tyronnian attacker, obliterate his home. He continued further into the forest, terrified the Tyronnians would find him. It wasn't long before he heard them leave. Relieved, he collapsed and burst into tears. He had lost everything, almost everyone he ever cared about.
Casey hoped he could help. Nothing was left standing. Smouldering ruins lay everywhere. He could hardly bare to look at the hundreds of dead bodies. Men, women, children, wildlife laid strewn on the grounds, mutilated beyond recognition. The sweet soapy tar-like smell, was now overpowered with the sickening stench of death. Casey staggered, fell to his knees and vomited, but forced himself on. He found one very young child, about three, his body bloodied, barely alive. Casey knew he would not live to see the next day. He knelt down to the boy, in tears.
"Nothing can do," the boy rasped, as though reading Casey's thoughts.
Casey held the dying Odessian in his arms. "I'm sorry..." he wailed.
The boy managed a smile through his pain and shook his head. He squeezed Casey's hand, and went limp.
Casey took a deep breath and laid the boy on the ground.
"I don't even know your name." Casey looked up into the sky. "Bastards ..." he whispered through his tears. He stood and hurled a rock upwards as far as he could, and heard it clatter back to the ground. Casey forced himself to look at the destruction, of life. Not even a tree was left standing. The soft grass, now thick with blood - that is the grass that still stood.
Then and there, Casey decided to join the Odessians who had taken up arms. He hated violence, but now felt the more Odessians fought against Tyronnian tyranny, the sooner this senseless, terrible war would end. It would not end sitting at home and he cursed himself for being so naive. He had to get to the Great Leaders of Odessa Alpha, Aurora and Orion. He yearned for his old hover car "Bess," but she had been destroyed with his home. It would be a long walk.
Casey walked many miles to Odessia Headquarters, terrified the Tyronnians would attack again. Finally he saw the welcoming building in the distance and smiled, relieved. He wanted to lie down and sleep, but forced himself on. He reached the complex, and collapsed.
"Casey!" Aurora exclaimed, rushing to him, picked him up and rushing him to sickbay.
The doctor scanned him and breathed a sigh of relief.
"He's okay. Scratches, bruises, exhausted."
He used the Medwand to heal Casey's minor wounds.
"Let him sleep for now."
Aurora nodded, grateful he was all right.
Casey awoke to find Alpha and Aurora beside him, and he smiled, relieved. "Thank the stars I made it..."
"Thank the stars you're alive," First Leader Alpha breathed. "When we'd heard about the village we feared the worst. We are in the process of sending a rescue-"
Casey shook his head. "There's nothing ... nothing ...left ... to rescue." His words were broken by tears.
Alpha and Aurora's eyes showed their sadness.
Alpha made sure Casey was bathed, clothed and fed.
"You can stay here as long as you like."
"Thank you. You've always been so kind to me."
Aurora, Alpha's mate had always been like a mother to Casey, as kind as the mother who bore him. The beautiful, smooth face of the Odessian Second Leader smiled. She had always seen Casey as her son. Her and Alpha's only child, Persepa had been a casualty of war. They grieved for their lost daughter often.
Casey informed the Leaders of his decision.
"Are sure about this? War is a dirty, gruesome dangerous business."
"I'm certain, Alpha. It's dangerous to sit and do nothing. I don't want any part of war, but we can't stand by and allow this destruction. I want this horrid war to end."
"We all do, Casey," Orion said, empathising. "You're young and I admire your courage. We'll equip you with a laser blaster. Only under extreme circumstances use the kill setting."
Casey nodded. He could never fathom killing another, even after all Tyronnians had done. He'd seen too much death in his short life.
"I'm assigning you to espionage," Alpha informed. "It is dangerous. Are you willing?"
Casey took a breath. "Yes. Anything."
Alpha smiled. "I know you're afraid - we all are, but don't think that makes you a coward."
The young Odessian nodded. Alpha was wise - it was though he could sense Casey’s feelings.
There wasn't much time for training. Casey studied the material thoroughly and was thankful piloting wasn't much different from Hovercars.
"We have stolen a Tyronnian drone ship," Aurora said. "You job is to fly to Tyronne. When there, cut power, glide in. You'll arrive at night - less of a chance of being seen. Sneak into their HQ and place this comma-link in the ceiling above the main control room. It will enable us to hear what they say. They have ... just killed Verilla, our spy." Aurora looked sad. "She informed us of another attack just before- ... Most of all, caution be with you."
* * *
Meanwhile the Leaders of Tyronne, Galax, Nila and Cacel planned their next attack.
"Yesterday's attack was a great success" gloated First Leader Galax.
"We didn't even have to use any heavy artillery ...." Nila chuckled, helping herself to a bowl of raw meat, swallowed, licked her fingers, then smiled and patted her flat stomach. "Mmmmm... nothing like fresh sweet pookrah..."
Galax smiled. Her skin was the loveliest shade of grey. He helped himself the tender meat.
"Very soon now we will obliterate Odessia Headquarters. We have found a way to penetrate its shielding -- Then we will launch al all out attack on the planet."
"Sounds great," Cacel grinned, mouth full of meat. "Glad we got that spying Odessian bitch."
Casey tried to put the fear out of his mind, but found he could not. What if they catch me? Will they torture me? Execute me? Both? He swallowed. Get a grip..... You'll fail if you're tense... He took a few deep breaths and used a meditating technique Alpha had taught him.
He glided into Tyronnian atmosphere, gently landed the ship on top of the HQ. He crawled into the secret passage, through a ventilation shaft. He made it to the main control room and adhered the commu-link to the bottom of the shaft. Casey shuddered as he heard Galax bark orders to his troops. Galax ... Casey was chilled to the bone. Every Odessian knew he was the cruellest, merciless, most evil being in the Universe - He continued this war, the senseless slaughter without second thoughts. Casey was relieved the Odessians had won the battle the late Verilla had warned them about battle, but knew the victory was short lived.
"What do you mean they knew?!" Galax spat. "Must've been that blasted Odessian spy! VRAK!" he swore.
Casey returned through the shaft to find his ship gone. His heart leapt into his throat. He heard guards and ducked back into the shaft. What am I going to do?!
The slender first leader of Tyronne glared at his troops.
"YOU IDIOTS! You disgust me. How could you fail such a simple task?!"
A Tyronnian attacker soldier nervously stepped forward. "Uhh, Your Excellency .... We weren't expecting such an immediate and forceful response ...."
"Take heavier artillery next time," Galax snapped. "Don't be cocky. Odessians aren't weak and helpless as they'd have us believe, and-"
He was cut off by a massive clap of thunder. Everything went black.
"Vrak!" Galax hissed. "Auxiliary Power!"
He dismissed the attackers and barked orders to have main power restored. Casey shrieked as he was electrocuted, then froze, terrified.
"What was that?!" gasped Nila.
Galax looked at the ceiling. "It came from there." He drew his laser rifle and fired. Casey tried to scramble away, but slipped and fell hard onto the floor, too petrified to feel pain.
"What the!!?" Cacel exclaimed. "Another Odessian Spy!" He drew his gun.
"Wait!" Galax barked, walking toward Casey. "Don't move."
Trembling, Casey obeyed.
What did you hear?" Galax demanded.
Casey was too terrified to speak.
"ANSWER ME!! ...."
Casey looked up at the large dark grey skinned Tyronnian. Trembling he began, ".... I ... I was flying back to Odessia from a space cruise ... I crash landed here ... climbed out of my ship, slipped down this shaft and -"
"A likely story. And what are you doing with a gun?"
"I ... found it in the shaft..."
"A pile of vrak!" Galax spat. "Tell me the truth, Odessian worm," He thrust the business and of his large rifle into Casey's stomach and grinned, "or you won't make a pretty sight."
Petrified, Casey swallowed and told him, knowing he had no other choice, and hoped Galax didn't decide to blast him anyway.
"Nila, get that commu-link."
She scanned, jumped up and pulled the device out of the ceiling. "Got it." She handed it to Galax.
He threw it onto the floor, slammed his heel down on it, crushing it, then turned to Casey. "That's better ... Now..."
He kicked Casey him in his stomach. The Odessian gasped in pain. Galax grabbed him, somewhat surprised at the Odessian's lightweight. Casey tried to struggle, but Galax was much stronger. The Tyronnian leader threw him into a prison cell and activated the computerised lock.
Casey slowly climbed onto the metal bed, in pain, tired and petrified. He wanted to sleep, but the room was cold, bed hard and he found it hard to close his eyes with the gnawing fear inside him. Although tired, he could not sleep, no mater how hard he tried, not even with a claming meditation Alpha had taught him.
Galax entered the cell, to find him looking rather distressed.
"What's the matter?" he asked, irritated.
"It's cold... and I'm hungry....." Casey hoped Galax would comply.
The First Leader signalled for the guard and was brought some cold, sloppy white mush and a thin grey blanket. Casey didn't care for the food, but was grateful to receive anything.
"Thank you."
As Galax was leaving a Zakart entered the cell. Casey hoped Galax didn't notice. The animal came to Casey and jumped onto the bed. Casey stroked him gently, wondering how he got inside. The Zakart purred and rubbed his head against Casey's arm and the Odessian smiled.
"Where's that Zakart?" Galax asked himself. He activated the scanner and found it. "Must've followed me in there... That blasted Odessian better not have hurt it...." He stared at the screen. Casey gently stroked the white furball. The Zakart rubbed his head against Casey's hand and purred. Casey spoke to him. "If that Galax finds you, he'll probably have you for breakfast."
Galax jerked. "I would never do such a thing!"
Galax entered the cell and pretended not to notice the Zakart whom Casey had hidden under the blanket.
"It was rude of me not to introduce myself earlier. If you do not already know, I am Galax, First Leader of Tyronne."
"So I gathered .... What are you gonna do to me?" Casey tried to keep the fear out of his voice.
"Oh nothing painful, you'll be glad to know. I have something else in mind ..."
"What's that, Galax?" Casey asked worried.
"Your Excellency!" he snapped. "You are to witness the power of the Ultimate Weapon...."
With that, he exited.
Casey stared after him. Ultimate weapon? Whatever it was, he was sure it wasn't good for Odessia.
Galax monitored him. He could see the Odessian was worried. "Good," he said to himself.
He watched him lift the blanket to reveal the peering yellow eyes of the Zakart. The animal stretched and started purring.
"What am I gonna do with you? " Casey affectionately asked. "You're such a sweeite." He nuzzled it and kissed its furry cheek.
"For would-be conquerors, the Odessians seem very sentimental and gentle ...." Galax observed. "Or maybe he's one of a kind...." He switched off visual.
The Zakart had gone to sleep, and although Casey was scared, exhaustion overtook him and he flopped asleep beside the furball.
The following morning, Casey heard the door to his cell open. A young Tyronnian entered.
Casey looked surprised. "Who are you?"
"Tron" replied the boy, a little larger than him.
"What do you want?" Casey asked.
"I came to give you something to eat. First Leader Galax and the guards are cruel to Odessians prisoners.”
Tron gave Casey a bowl of warm food. "It's Velona, a Tyronnian vegetable dish."
"Thank you ....." Casey said, hungrily beginning to eat. It was delicious.
"It's okay" replied Tron. "What's your name?"
"Casey. Why are you being .... nice to me?" He thought there may be a catch.
"I'm taking a risk, but I don't believe Odessians tried to conquer us."
"We didn't."
"I believe you. There are few Tyronnians like me. Most believe that Odessians started the war. I only wish Galax and the others could see the truth and this war will finally come to an end."
"Odessians wish that with all our hearts."
Tron looked sympathetic. Casey took the Zakart from the blanket. "Could you take him outside, please?"
Tron smiled and scratched the Zakart's chin.
"You'd better not let Galax see him."
"You really don't know, do you? Galax brought him in. He's always bringing something. He loves animals."
Casey stared in disbelief. "You're kidding!?"
Tron laughed. "I know this may be hard or even impossible for you to believe, after what he's done, but Galax isn't evil."
Casey didn't know what to say. Either Tron was mad, or he believed what he said.
"It's hard to believe all right .... He spoke of an ultimate weapon. I need-"
"Sorry, can't help you there. I don't know about it. I'd like to help, but I can't turn traitor to my own people."
Casey nodded. "I understand."
"Thanks. I best be going." He smiled and left.
Casey felt grateful someone at least understood - but it wasn't enough to end the war.
"There he is," Galax said. "Where'd you find him?"
"In the Odessian's cell. He asked me to take it out."
"Get him some sea dolph milk."
"Yes, Your Excellency."
"Tron..."
The younger turned.
"I've told you, you can address me by name."
"I'm sorry. I feel uncomfortable, Sir. I'm only a junior."
Galax smiled warmly. "You have been like a son to me, ever since Banok was killed, battling Odessians."
"Thank you, First Leader," Tron breathed. "I am honoured."
His parents had been killed by a cliff collapse. Galax had taken him as a baby into his care.
"Are you going to kill Casey?"
The question stung Galax with its childlike innocence. "Tron... I know how you feel about Odessians."
Tron took a step back in fear.
"It's all right. I know of quite a few Tyronnians who feel the same. I am not going to force anyone what to believe, but you must believe I am not a bad person."
"Casey would beg to differ."
A silence followed.
"I meant no offence..." Tron offered, his voice almost shaking.
"None taken," Galax said. He'd never hurt Tron, but he didn't want the young one to think he was wrong.
The next morning, Galax brought Casey a bowl of vegetables and raw meat. Quite hungry, Casey began to eat, but as soon as he'd put a piece of the meat into his mouth, he spat it out in disgust. "What is this?"
Galax was puzzled. "Don't you have meat on Odessia?"
Casey pulled a face. "Odessians do not eat other living things."
"It's only a pookrah."
"I don't know what that is, but I cannot eat something that was once alive. I'm sorry." Casey took out the vegetables and handed the bowl to Galax, who in turn handed it to the guard. The First Leader was quite intrigued by the Odessians no-meat diet, but more pressing concerns plagued his mind. "I am ready for you to witness the power of the Ultimate Weapon."
Casey almost choked on the last mouthful. Dreading this moment, stood nervously and followed Galax to the main control room. Odessia was clearly visible through the viewscreen. Casey ached to return.
"What's the ultim-"
"This," replied Galax, pointing to a enormous laser cannon shown outside the complex. "I will fire it at Odessia - destroying the entire planet ..."
Casey stared at Galax open mouthed. "Destroy our planet! ..... You ..... You ... you can't! ....."
"I can and I will." Galax placed his finger on the button.
"NO!!" Casey screamed.
Galax began to push.
"No..." Casey wailed, tears in his eyes. "Please .... don't... How could you be so heartless? .... You can't destroy Odessia. Our home ... There are innocent people .... Men, women, children, wildlife .... Please ...." Casey could barely speak.
Galax hesitated. Casey inwardly sighed with relief.
"Contrary to what you think," he chose his words cautiously, "we did not try to conquer Tyronne. The ships were for exploration. Check our records on the construction. They -"
"Records written by Odessians," Galax spat. "If you believe that you have been fed the same lies!"
"They're not lies. You can scan the original designs for yourself and -"
"I won't waste my time! You can't deny you have warships now."
"And who started that?"
"ENOUGH!" Galax roared and began again to push down on the button.
"NO, GALAX ..... PLEASE ....." Casey screamed, more than petrified. All he loved, his people - people who were special to him, his home planet, the trees, sweet soapy tar-like smell, the scenery - everything was to be destroyed by the single push of a button. "Please ......." he wailed.
Galax slammed his fist down on the red square button.
Casey's mouth dropped open. "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHH!"
He didn't want to witness Odessia's destruction turned his head away. Galax grabbed the back of his neck and made him
watch. The beam collided with the peaceful turquoise ball, causing a blinding explosion, followed by brilliant rings of fire, which faded, leaving nothing but black void. The spectacular, dazzling effect meant nothing to Casey. He stared into space, which once was Odessia, and cried. Galax let the distraught Odessian drop to the floor.
"Computer, end simulation."
Casey had not noticed. Galax jerked him up.
"LEAVE ME ALONE, YOU BASTARD!!" Casey kicked violently.
Galax slapped him. "I am sorry I had to put you through that. But it proves you're not lying."
Casey frowned for a moment. Galax pointed to the viewscreen. Casey stood and his mouth dropped at what he saw - Odessia - whole!
"You ... you mean this whole Ultimate Weapon thing-"
"Was bogus," Galax admitted, expecting the Odessian to let fly.
Casey visibly breathed with relief. Tears rolled down his cheeks and he fainted.
Galax shook his head. "This Odessian never ceases to amaze me..."
Tron secretly witnessed the ordeal and was not impressed. In his private quarters, he immediately set about retrieving detailed records of original Odessian ships.
Galax sat in his office and slammed his fist on the table causing a dent. "If the Odessians were innocent why did they construct battleships years ago?" He refused to believe they were exploration cruisers. The war had hardened him - that was obvious. He knew he and his armies were responsible for the deaths of thousands of Odessians - and he refused to believe he'd killed innocent people.
Galax entered Casey's cell.
"That wasn't funny," Casey said, sour.
"The simulation was not meant as a cruel prank."
"To prove I'm gullible? If you were in my position, how would you react?"
"It was necessary to discover the truth. I am convinced that you believe it is the truth. I am however, not convinced that it is the truth."
Casey said nothing. Obviously Galax had been too blinded by mistrust and hatred to see anything else.
"Why did you become a part of the war?"
"I wanted to help to end it. I couldn't just stand by and watch my people die. I saw my entire village destroyed.”
"And yet your people would have done the same to us, had we not stopped them."
Casey shook his head. "I've told you the truth - you tortured me and still you don't believe it!"
Galax slapped him. "I am sick of you!"
He grabbed Casey and roughly jerked him to his feet. "You Odessians are weak ...."
"Compare our sizes," Casey stood, tired of being bashed around.
"I don't need a machine to kill you...."
The young Odessian’s eyes widened. Galax came forward. Casey darted away.
"Stand still," Galax snapped, knowing the other would not comply.
Casey shrieked when Galax grabbed him and violently tried to struggle free. Galax grabbed his throat.
"Don't ..." Casey gasped.
Galax brutally backhanded him across his face, drawing blood. He clutched Casey around his waist and began to squeeze. Casey gasped and tried in vain to push Galax's hands off.
"Stop..... Please ...."
Galax's grip grew tighter. In pain, Casey tried to struggle, but Galax's grip became even tighter. Casey began to vomit blood. Galax tightened his grip. Casey continued to throw up blood. Galax continued to squeeze.
"Please ..." Casey begged, in tears. "Please stop... you're killing me ... please st...op... it hurts... ple...ease...."
Galax consumed by his own hatred barely heard. He finally loosened his grip. Casey dropped to the floor. Galax looked down. The Odessian lay in a pool of his own blood. Galax looked at himself, covered in blood. He swallowed and knelt down. Casey's eyes were closed. Galax became shocked at himself. He'd let his own rage consume him. The brutality of what the he'd done frightened him. He picked up Casey and carried him to sick quarters and laid him on a bed. Galax had killed prisoners before, but not as violently and never someone so young. He ripped off Casey's bloodied shirt, seeing he'd split the skin. He thought he'd always hate Odessians, but felt a pang of pity for Casey and remorse for what he had done and wanted to revive him. He wiped off the Odessian's red blood and used a skin welder to join the skin. Although Tyronnian blood was lilac in colour, the bright red Odessian blood didn't make it any less sickening. Casey had lost quite a lot. Having no Odessian blood on file, he duplicated Casey's blood and gave him a transfusion and waited a while until Casey regained consciousness. He gave a small smile, wondering why he felt this way toward an Odessian.
"I'm sorry..." he said softly.
Casey gasped. "Don't... hurt me... " He tried to run, and yelped with pain and clutched his side.
"Easy..." Galax calmed. "Your skin will take a few days to heal. I am sorry for what I did. It was wrong of me."
Casey calmed and nodded, quite relieved. "Thank you for reviving me."
"I still do not care for Odessians, but again, I apologise."
"Apology accepted."
Galax offered his a warm cup of Tyronnian Gpder tea, which Casey graciously accepted. He gratefully sipped at the pleasant, slightly tangy liquid until the cup was empty, then sat it down.
"I wish you could believe me. Please, I tell you again. Odessia did not build ships of war. We...“
"Odessian vrak murdered my and Nila's only son! His transport was blown away without warning! Needless to say more Tyronnians have been killed!"
"And how many sons, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers have your people killed? Many more Odessians have been killed than Tyronnians Most, defenceless civilians and those who fight do so only in self defence. Odessians have never attacked innocent Tyronnians. We have never come here blasting until every living thing has been destroyed. You are the ones who started the killing. My parents were murdered by Tyronnians. I was only four, and they would've murdered me as well, had I not been buried. Leaders Alpha and Aurora took me into their care. Years later my beautiful beloved was murdered by an attacker craft. Arilla, cut to pieces by laser fire right before my eyes. There was nothing I could do." Galax tried to cut him off, but Casey wouldn't let him. "The attacker hadn't seen me. Part of me wished they had. Not too long after, I witnessed the destruction of my entire village! I was the only survivor. Have you any idea what it is like to walk amongst hundreds of dead, mutilated, smouldering bodies, wishing you could do something? I will never forget the stench of burning flesh. A bloodied child died in my arms. A child, Galax, murdered by your attacker ships. Barely old enough to walk - And you say we Odessians are the aggressors!" Tears streamed down Casey's cheeks.
"NO!" Galax screamed. "I refuse to believe I am responsible for the deaths of innocent children! I refuse!"
There was a pause.
"You started this war because you believed you were protecting Tyronne from aggressive Odessians, but now you're not so sure. You want to believe you're a good person, and you can't accept the fact that you are responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of innocent people."
"No..." Galax shook his head, and fell to his knees, tears brimming in his eyes. "I... No! ...."
Casey felt pity for him. "You are afraid of the truth, and the guilt that comes with it."
Part of Galax wanted to grab the Ancient encrusted Tyronnian dagger within his reach and stab Casey, to silence him, but the other part knew he spoke the truth. As much as it pained him to admit. Galax took a deep breath and willed his tears to stop.
"This... this is almost impossible for me to say ... I admit I was ... wr...ong and I am truly sorry, if that means anything to you."
Casey gave a warm smile. "It means a great deal, Your Excellency."
"Galax." The First Leader stood, feeling as though his entire world had been blown apart, as though the souls of the dead were silently screaming, torturing him and his heart felt as though it would explode. How could I have killed innocent children? ... People ... How could I have been so whoking blind....
He helped Casey off the bed, the white robe he had dressed him in, a little too big.
Galax confronted the other Leaders.
"I am beginning to think you are correct," Nila said.
"Are you out of your whoking minds?!" Cacel exclaimed. "You're gonna believe one pathetic Odessian?! He's lying to save his miserable hide!"
"You're wrong. I saw the truth in his eyes. We've killed children."
"Children who'll become conquerors and killers!"
"AND WHAT ARE WE?!" Galax screamed. "What have we been doing for the past whoking century!?"
"Saving ourselves!"
"No," Tron said," entering. "I accessed Odessia’s records - the ships were designed for space exploration. No weapons."
"I have also checked them, thoroughly" Nila said. "The boy is correct."
"Records altered by Odessians, no doubt!" Cacel spat.
"No - there is no falsification," Tron insisted.
"How would you know, boy?!"
"I ran cross checks and -"
Cacel backhanded him across his face knocking him to the floor. Galax grabbed Cacel and pushed him to the wall.
"Tron is under my care. Harm him again and you'll answer to me."
He turned away.
"If you will not lead us," Cacel spat, "I will!"
He drew his gun.
"Galax!" Nila screamed, drawing hers. Cacel spun around. Both fired at once, and fell to the floor, dead.
"Nila! ... No ..." Galax gasped, rushing to her side, knowing there was nothing he could do. He wiped away a tear.
A guard escorted Casey into control room.
"I'm sorry...."
"It's not your fault. I deserve this. It's part of my punishment. I have caused much pain and suffering."
Galax stood, unable to bear the sight of the lifeless body of his beloved. "I will make an announcement to Odessia and devote Tyronne's building, furniture, clothing, food and water industries to help rebuild her - give back what we destroyed."
"Thank you," Casey said, sincere.
"It's the least I can do, if they will accept our help. I can only hope my people will be more open minded than the former Third Leader..."
Casey nodded. "I grieve for you, Galax."
"I deserve the pain within my soul."
Galax ordered his troops to stand down, telling them of his discovery of Odessia's innocence. He ordered the melting down of warships and weapons into tools for peace. The armies disbanded, and given peacetime positions, which they much preferred.
"You were right all along, Tron. How could I have been so blind?"
The younger smiled, and hugged the First Leader, grateful the truth was known. A pity so many lives had to be lost to discover it, but he didn't say that. The First Leader had enough grief without driving and twisting the dagger further.
Galax gave Casey a ship to return to Odessia. He was only too happy for Tron to accompany him. Galax broadcasted his discovery to all of Tyronne and set his plans to revitalise Odessia in motion.
"Casey! You escaped!" Alpha had tears in his eyes. "When you didn't return, we feared the worst..."
Casey gave a smile. "I can imagine."
"And you've captured a Tyronnian!"
"No Alpha ..... " began Casey, ..... "Tron is my friend."
Alpha looked surprised,
"And I have something else to tell-"
Before he could finish, Odessia headquarters computer began to pick up a transmission.
Galax broadcasted his heartfelt message to all of Tyronne and Odessia. Images of his face appearing in the sky - the face of someone the Odessians thought a ruthless, evil, brutal warlord, looked like a grieving, loving father. There would great celebrating today. Many Odessians were unsure of accepting Tyronne's help, after all that had happened between them and many were reluctant to forgive, but knew in their hearts Tyronne meant them no more harm and the former aggressors wanted to help them more than anything in the Universe, out of sorrow and guilt for what they had done. Galax promised all the help he could give. His words broken by tears streaming down his cheeks, and he finished with. "I cannot ... apologise enough for ... what I have done. I do not ... expect to ever be forgiven."
* * *
Days later. He flew to Odessia and apologised to Alpha in person.
"I never realised how much Odessia was like Tyronne, so beautiful...."
Alpha held his hand. "I grieve for you. Your pain cannot be easy."
"It is not. I was so blinded by my own ignorance - I deserve to suffer. As I said, I do not expect forgiveness."
"In time, Odessians will find it in our hearts to forgive. May you find it in yours to forgive yourself."
"That ... will never be possible."
Alpha put his arms around him. Astounded, Galax returned the gesture, and more tears came.
"Thank you, First Leader Alpha," he said, sincere.
Much to Galax's surprise, a shiny red bird, perched on his shoulder. He wanted to touch it, but was frightened it would fly off. He slowly reached up and stroked it, grateful it stayed put. "You have such a beautiful world. I cannot believe I almost destroyed it."
"You have realised your error and paid the price with your guilt," Alpha said. "Odessa will survive, as will Tyronne, together in peace."
Galax smiled and nodded and turned to Tron. "You may stay here as long as you like, but remember Tyronne needs more Leaders."
"I am honoured. Thank you, Father."
Galax looked surprised. "I am not our biological father. Are you sure you want to accept me as your Father after what I have done?"
"More than anything. Your admission makes me proud to call myself The Son of Galax."
"Thank you ... I am honoured." Galax's voice held the deepest sincerity. "I cannot thank you enough for opening my eyes. It had to be done, but it pains me that so many lives were lost. I must leave. There is something I ... must do."
Casey gave a since, warm smile. "May you find peace within yourself."
"Perhaps, but not in this lifetime."
He turned and retreated to his ship, gently brushing the bright bird of his shoulder. It chirped and flew into the turquoise sky.
Casey showed Tron his home planet - the parts which had not been ravaged by war.
"You must've missed this."
Casey smiled. "I did."
"You know, Case, you're very mature for your age."
"Thanks. I do my best!"
Tron smiled. "Odessia is a beautiful planet."
"Thanks. Perhaps you can show me Tyronne sometime. Didn't see much in that prison cell."
Tron smiled. "Sure."
Casey took him into the forest, by a trickling stream and they both sat down for a drink. The two new friends cared a lot about each other and hoped over the years more friendships would be forged between Odessians and Tyronnians. A pancheet, a large Odessian cat, came for a drink. Tron grew wide eyed, but Casey smiled and stroked the beast, which licked his hands. Tron, nervous at first, gave the creature a pat.
At dusk, they began to make their way back to Odessia Headquarters. The two youths looked up into the Odessian sky. The twin moons, Hadepa and Celestine, had risen in the East, but the sun was still visible. The two were momentarily blinded by a brilliant flash of light from the setting sun.
"Your father should be almost home by now."
Tron nodded. "I hope he's all right. I'll check his flight path." He took out a device and looked confused. "Hey, this says his course was ..."
The two boys looked each other in horror. "... A direct collision course with your sun Gallaria..."
Tron swallowed and a tear rolled down his cheek. "It's what he wanted," he said after a pause, swallowing the lump in his throat. "He shall be forever remembered. May he find his peace in his next life."
"We shall remember," Casey said, in tears, his voice solemn.
* * *
It had taken many years to revitalise Odessia, but with the heartfelt relentless help of the Tyronnians, it had been done. Galax would be proud to know most Tyronnians were more than willing to help and those who were not, eventually came around. Many Odessians had become friends with their former enemies, and some had taken mates and given birth to young - Including Tron. He had bonded with a young Odessian woman, Coriia and were now the proud parents of a bright, bubbly grey skinned daughter, Galaxa.
Today was thirtieth Anniversary of The Celebration of Peace. Thousands gathered in Odessian Sacred Square. A tribute was paid to Galax, the once feared and hated enemy and to Casey, who was then but a child.
Casey stepped out before his beloved people, grateful, generations to come would never know the horrors of war. He broadcasted the sacred speech which every Odessian and Tyronnian knew by heart, to both planets. Then he proposed a toast to the end of the war, throwing sacred Sparkling Crystal River water over the statues of Galax and himself. At first he had been uncomfortable at having a statue, but the people, including his loving Tyronnian mate, Geela and his young son Galax the Second, had insisted. After all - it was he who had helped the First Galax to see the light and end the war. First Leader Casey smiled lovingly at his people, grateful the Universe had chosen to bless them.