Episode 18 Help Me Help You

I sat in my grand throne room, a place that had become the epicenter of my reign. The holographic reports flickered before me, detailing the progress of our efforts to distribute the cure for the Scourge, a disease that made me shudder every time I thought about it. It reminded me of leprosy, albeit one with the horrific twist of causing spontaneous human combustion.

The previous Queen, in her time, possessed a cure for the strain that plagued her era. Her knowledge and methods were far beyond our understanding, but it was a testament to her genius. I had dedicated substantial resources to research and develop a cure for the newer, more virulent strains of the Scourge, and it seemed our efforts were paying off. The reports showed promising results, and I couldn't help but feel a glimmer of pride at the progress we were making in combating this dreadful affliction.

I swiped away the holographic reports and turned my attention to the live video feed of the Helios' C.S. (Cargo Ship) Prophet docking into our bay. A surge of excitement coursed through me as I watched the magnificent vessel's graceful arrival.

The C.S. Prophet had exactly what I needed for the upcoming battle, just in case talks with General Jax Brynn took a nosedive. I hoped I wouldn't have to resort to using it, but having a little extra firepower in my back pocket couldn't hurt. I could still vividly recall the look of utter shock on Cardinal Senos's face when I brought up the topic, and how he turned a shade of purple I didn't even know was humanly possible when Lagos so readily agreed to hand over their weapon. The element of surprise was on my side, and I couldn't help but smirk at the absurdity of the situation.

"Let's go meet my new baby, Eyseck," I turned to him.

"I wish you wouldn't refer to our weapons as your children, my Queen," he sighed, but he more or less got used to how I talk by now.

As we arrived at the location where the engineers had decided to install the ray cannon, my excitement grew. The massive weapon stood before me, an imposing figure that demanded its own dedicated base. But what truly caught my attention was the large engraving on the side of its mighty shaft, proudly declaring its name: "GODSEND."

It truly was. Gosh, I never was a weapons-nut in my previous life but damn, looking at this powerful cannon made my toes curl in anticipation.

An engineer approached me with a holographic clipboard in hand, their greeting accompanied by an awkward bow. "Your Highness, this servant greets you," they said, their reverence a clear reminder of how Queen Regina had been accustomed to being worshipped. I couldn't help but feel a bit embarrassed by the display. I keep telling these people that I don't need to be bowed or curtsied to like the previous Queen. That's just weird.

"We have a problem," they said, their unease evident in their eyes as they met mine. The engineer led me to the base of the cannon, a sense of anticipation building as she prepared to unveil the energy core behind a vault. Eyseck and I braced ourselves, half-expecting a surge of radiation to burst forth as she opened the vault. 

To our astonishment, the chamber was completely empty. Our excitement quickly turned to disappointment, the weight of the situation sinking in.

They—it's like they gave me a race car with no batteries for Christmas. Geez, thanks.

Suddenly, I felt a warm embrace from behind, a sense of familiarity washing over as I noticed the scent. Slowly, I turned around, and there before me were those unmistakable purple-pink eyes, gazing into mine. 

"Surprise, my Queen!" Lagos smiled widely. "I suppose it was quite a shock to see there was no core. I apologize for the tasteless prank."

Lagos was dressed in a striking outfit that stood in stark contrast to his surroundings. He wore a thin, loose, billowy ruffled blouse that exposed the middle of his chest, its fabric gracefully cascading as it caught the soft breeze. His attire was completed by tight, dark brown leather pants that accentuated his long, lean legs, and sturdy boots that reached just below the knee.

"Lagos," I sighed with a hint of relief, "it's good to see my husband who could enlighten us about the type of core that powers GODSEND?"

He blinked in mild surprise, "What do you mean?"

"Is GODSEND powered by Arcane energy cores, Plutonarch, Gallium, or something else?" I inquired.

He smiled and pointed at himself, "I am the core."

I blinked in surprise at Lagos's revelation. "You? You're the core?"

He nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Yes, my Queen. The weapon you desire, GODSEND, is powered by the divine energy within me. I am the source of its incredible power."

I couldn't help but feel a mixture of astonishment and disturbance. "But how does it work? How are you connected to it?"

Lagos explained, "It's a complex system that utilizes my innate energy. The weapon channels and amplifies this energy into a devastating force, capable of unimaginable destruction when harnessed correctly."

As I absorbed this revelation, I couldn't help but wonder about the implications of having Lagos, the Cor of Helios, as the living core of such a powerful weapon.

I turned to Eyseck, who had been listening to our conversation, and said, "It seems our weapon, GODSEND, is quite unique, Eyseck. It runs on Lagos's divine energy."

Eyseck raised an eyebrow. "That's...unexpected."

"Indeed, it is an advantage, but it also means we must protect Lagos at all costs. He is now not only the Cor of Helios but also the living core of our most potent weapon. We cannot afford to insult Helios."

No wonder Cardinal Senos turned purple.

Lagos interjected, "Rest assured, my Queen, I am fully committed to our alliance and the protection of Proxima. I understand the responsibility that comes with this role."

I turned to Lagos, a hint of concern in my voice, "Won't you get hurt doing this?"

He offered a reassuring smile, "Don't worry, I just get incredibly tired after each pulse. That's why I've installed a small compartment for snacks and drinks." He walked over to the vault the engineer had opened, filling it with fruits and beverages. 

So that's what it was for.

Lagos turned to me and asked, "Do you want to see the cockpit?" He walked over to the side and manipulated a panel I hadn't even noticed before. With a click, it swung open, revealing the pristine white cockpit adorned with different panels. The engineer and Eyseck joined me in looking at it, their expressions filled with curiosity. We have never seen such technology which harnessed power from an individual.

I see now, no wonder Scourge makes them spontaneously combust… Helians host something like little energy cores. With Lagos having an almost infinite, potent amount of energy inside his being.

Lagos led me into the cramped cockpit, offering his hand to help me climb up. I accepted, and he gently pulled me into the cramped space.

In one swift movement, I found myself landing on his lap as I maneuvered into the cramped cockpit. My cheeks flushed with embarrassment, worried about how it might appear to others, even though it had been purely practical. The cockpit was only meant for one person.

As I glanced up, Lagos gave me a mischievous smirk, and I couldn't help but wonder where the polite religious figure had gone. He was like a different person once you got to know him better, revealing a playful and less formal side.

Lagos proceeded to explain the various parts, panels, and functions inside the cannon in a detailed and informative manner. He pointed out each component, describing its role and how it contributed to the weapon's effectiveness. As he spoke, his voice was low and alluring, brushing against my ear.

I dug my nails into my palm to stay focused as I listened attentively, trying to absorb as much information as possible about the intricate machinery that made up the GODSEND.

"Why are you so tense, my Queen?" Lagos seemed to not notice my inner struggle as he brushed a lock of hair behind my ear. "I told you, I won't get hurt from operating the GODSEND. Were you that worried?"

I thought you were supposed to be celibate, Lagos! Why are you blatantly presenting me with this thirst trap?

Knock. Knock. Knock.

The rapping on the cockpit door grew louder and more insistent, the sound echoing through the thick layers of the door. It was clear that someone was trying to get our attention from outside.

I opened the door and found Eyseck on the other side, adjusting his uniform. "My Queen," he greeted, "I'd like to remind you that we have another appointment scheduled soon."

I recalled that I had a meeting with Sebastian regarding the remains of the previous Queen. Anxiety washed over me, and I knew I needed to prepare myself thoroughly; I couldn't afford to make the wrong decision.

I hopped out of the cockpit, and Eyseck caught me in his arms. I bid farewell to Lagos and the engineers, leaving them to their discussions about construction and adjustments.

Next thing I knew, I was in a meeting with Sebastian and a few influential supporters of Queen Regina. They didn't refer to themselves as loyalists, but the majority of them had held high ranks during her rule. I'm not surprised to see them coming out of the woodwork.

They probably thought I was soft. I wonder, if I acted more like the tyrant Queen, would they respect me more and keep their mouths shut?

No, I'm a diplomatic-type of person. I literally have a degree for this.

Sebastian began, "Your Highness, we have gathered here today to discuss a matter of great importance. As you are aware, Queen Regina, the previous ruler of Proxima, made significant contributions to our planet during her reign. One of her most remarkable achievements was the development of the cure for the Scourge, a deadly disease that plagued the Helian people for generations. Her groundbreaking research and medical advancements have saved countless lives and brought about a new era of health and prosperity for our world and our allies."

"Did she give the cure to the Helians?" I asked. I narrowed my gaze at him and his compatriots. I never really knew why she would simply dangle the cure in front of their suffering like that. "Please, continue."

He continued, "Furthermore, Queen Regina's dedication to advancing our scientific knowledge and technology has left an indelible mark on our society. Her work in weapon production and enhancement has strengthened our defenses and ensured the safety of our people in a hostile universe. Are we not currently using the electromagnetic railguns she left for us?"

Yeah, and I had to retrieve the Plutonarch cores to power them.

"I have to admit," I began, "we did indeed enjoy the best medical care and defense system under Queen Regina's rule. She spared no expense when it came to research, development, and technological advancements. Her dedication to the well-being of our people is undeniable, and it has undoubtedly saved countless lives."

I continued, my tone thoughtful and calculating, "However, it is also true that these advancements came at a considerable cost to our citizens. The heavy taxation imposed during her reign burdened many, and we still see the remnants of poverty and homelessness within our society. There are those who have not fully reaped the benefits of our progress."

Sebastian paused for a moment before adding, "But it's not just her accomplishments that make her deserving of a place in the Tomb of Legacy. Queen Regina was a visionary leader who inspired loyalty and devotion in her subjects. She ruled with wisdom and compassion, always putting the needs of our planet and its people above all else. Her legacy is one of progress, unity, and prosperity."

Okay, that's a little bullshit.

I looked around the room, my expression reflecting the complexities of the situation. "As we consider Queen Regina's burial in the Tomb of Legacy, we must acknowledge both her remarkable achievements and the challenges that some of our people continue to face. It is a decision that carries great symbolism, and we must weigh the implications carefully."

Finally, one of Sebastian's like-minded companions spoke, "We believe that honoring Queen Regina by burying her in the Tomb of Legacy will serve as a symbol of our gratitude and respect for her contributions. It will also remind future generations of the remarkable leader who shaped our world."

Sebastian concluded, "We humbly request your support for this proposal, Your Majesty, and hope that you will consider the significance of this gesture in preserving the memory of Queen Regina for all time."

"I must confess, this decision is a tough one," I began, my voice reflecting the weight of the situation. "I won't overlook Queen Regina's significant contributions. As I faced her in her final moments, I saw her humanity."

This was a lie. I have no memory of killing her.

Taking a moment to let that sink in, I continued, "She advanced our world in remarkable ways, and we owe her for that. However, I also saw the suffering that our people endured under her rule. The disparities and trauma in our people persists despite our progress."

I presented a series of images that showcased the harsh realities of Queen Regina's rule. The photos depicted the brutality of death battles, the indifference to famine-stricken regions, and the abuse suffered by those in her harem, among other disturbing scenes. The room was filled with a heavy silence as the images told a story of suffering and injustice that had unfolded under her reign.

Looking around the room, I addressed those gathered, "This decision is a testament to our commitment to justice and progress. "

I signaled for Galatea to display the holographic design I had painstakingly crafted. As the intricate architecture unfolded before us, Sebastian's eyes widened, and I could sense a profound emotion stirring within him.