Chapter 77 : The Kingdom Sveratis

"So the Queen of Sveratis handed you this sapphire ring, secretly," said Admiral Maskmana.

"Yes," Axion replied.

"Any idea what the ring is?"

"I did a quick search and found some information," she answered. "The ring is a royal treasure handed down from generation to generation among the royal family. Not only it's a sign of the current ruler of Sveratis, but it is also a sign of power in Sveratis history. According to legend, the Ring was bestowed by the gods and it grants immense power only to those it deems worthy."

"Why would the Queen hand you such an important ring?" Ramenman asked.

"I don't know. All she told me is to deliver this ring to her son, the Prince," said Axion.

"Strange. Why doesn't the Queen deliver it herself?" Lahap asked.

"Possibly because of the current political issue," said Axion.

Admiral Maskmana leans to his chair. "Before making assumptions and answering questions, we need to gain information first. We know a little about the ring. What do we know about the Sveratis Kingdom?"

"Sveratis is a humble kingdom located on a planet called Struganevra. They have a long history and traditions. There are currently 3 big factions in the kingdom. The Royals, The Aristocrat, and The Military. The Royal faction is a faction in support of the royal family such as the King and Queen. The Aristocratic faction is a faction consisting of several rich powerful nobles. Mostly Nobles who have their own business. They also greatly affected the kingdom's economic progress. The Military faction is a faction that has a big influence on the kingdom's military. They are in charge of the kingdom's military protection," Axion explains.

"The kingdom is currently suffering from political power shifting between The Royals and The Military," she continues. The Sveratis Military faction, led by General Versatel, is suspected of treason. Rumors said they're planning a coup towards the royal family."

"That might explain why the Queen acted so suspicious towards the general," said Kaizo.

"But why would the Queen have someone she doesn't trust to guard her?" Rum asks.

"It is a customary formality that the general guards the Queen as he is in charge of the kingdom's protection," said Axion. "And it's also possible that the Queen is held hostage by the general."

"That is a bold assumption," said Maskmana.

"But plausible," said Axion. "Think about it. If you were General Versatel, keeping the Queen close by while making a public appearance would give him advantages. He can take control of the kingdom quietly without panicking the public."

"So it's a matter of time until General Versatel makes the final big move and completely takes over the Kingdom," said Kaizo.

"Hmm… What about the Prince?" Maskmana asks.

"Sveratis' only prince is currently missing. There are so many rumors about him. No one is sure of where or what happened to him. One report said Prince Stravenkov Sveratis was last seen with his army, fighting a group of suspected terrorists at the kingdom's southern border," said Axion. "But other sources state that the Prince is actually held hostage by the military. Another source also states that the prince is raising an army of rebels and commit treason."

"We're dealing with the political issue of a kingdom. This political issue may affect other countries, other planets. As space rangers, we are supposed to remain neutral. We can't just make decisions on our own," said Rum. She looked at Maskmana. "I suggest you at least discuss it with the intergalactic united nations."

"Good point," said Maskmana. "But it could also be possible that the Queen is in immediate danger." He leans forward to his table. "At any rate, the Queen has unofficially requested our help. And we will answer her request. Let's investigate further into this matter. I want this team to go to Struganevra and do a recon mission, out of record."

"You mean, we're going in alone?" Axion asked.

"Yes," said Admiral Maskmana. "This is a very delicate situation. We can't risk the Intergalactic United Nations getting accused of spying and have its integrity questioned by the public. So if you get caught in Sveratis...."

"There will be no reinforcements," said Axion. "No help. No connection. We're on our own."

The room suddenly tense.

Admiral Maskmna nodded. " Go dark. Get into Sveratis secretly. You can't trust anyone, especially the General. And seeing how the general is in charge of most things, it would be more effective if you go to Sveratis without letting the General know. Make all necessary preparation and dispatch immediately!"

"Yes, Admiral," the team replied in unison.

"One more thing..." said Maskmana before they left the room.

"If things go wrong, you're in charge," said Maskmana as he looked at Axion.

Axion stares at Maskmana.

"Sometimes, the end justifies the means," said Maskmana.

Axion silent. She slowly nods before she walks out of the room.

Astra spaceship's engine roars. Their destination is set to planet Struganevra.

"Well, who would've thought?" said Ramenman. "A few hours ago we were dancing and partying. And the next thing we knew, we're involved in some political war."

"Well, they said the higher your rank, the busier you get," said Rum.

Kaizo looked at Axion. The words Maskmana said to Axion before they leave make him curious.

"Engine ready. Boosters ready," said Lahap.

"Launch the ship!" Kaizo ordered.