A man whose entire body shimmered in a deep blue hue strode confidently toward the guarded gates of the palace. His presence was imposing, clad in heavy metal armor etched with intricate designs signifying his high rank. The guards at the gates, armed with sleek, futuristic rifles, straightened and saluted him as he approached.
Everyone in this place bore the same striking blue skin, their elongated ears resembling those of mythical elves. This was the planet of the Saltins—a race known for their strength, precision, and ruthless conquests.
The soldier, known as Ashcroft, pressed onward, each step resonating through the grand palace corridors. Guards stationed at every corner bowed slightly, acknowledging his authority as he passed. The deeper he ventured, the more luxurious his surroundings became, until he reached a grand door encrusted with diamonds, sparkling under the glow of the crystal chandeliers above.
With a steady hand, Ashcroft pushed the door open, revealing a throne room that exuded opulence. At its center stood a towering golden throne, gleaming like the sun itself. Seated upon it was King Asmunt, a colossal figure whose commanding presence could cow even the boldest warriors.
Ashcroft dropped to one knee, bowing his head low until it nearly touched the polished marble floor.
"My lord, accept your servant," he said solemnly.
King Asmunt leaned forward, his sharp eyes fixed on the kneeling figure. "Arise, Ashcroft. You may speak."
Ashcroft rose, standing tall as he delivered his message. "I bring news of victory, my lord. Our first missile, filled with hydrogen sulfate, has landed successfully on Kingdom Earth."
The king smirked, leaning back in his throne with an air of satisfaction. "As expected. Panic will soon spread through their lands. They will scramble to prepare for our next strike, but it will be in vain." He paused, a sinister grin curling his lips. "Next week, we will launch the second wave. Let them feel the might of the Saltins."
Ashcroft nodded, his voice steady. "How long will it take our ships to reach Earth, my lord?"
King Asmunt stroked his chin thoughtfully. "With our new warp-drive ships, the journey should take six months by our time—three months by Earth's reckoning. They will not see us coming."
The king's grin widened as he issued his orders. "Prepare the third division for departure. Let them face Earth's defenses. We must gauge their strength before deploying our full force."
Ashcroft hesitated, shifting slightly on his feet. "My king, there is... another matter."
Asmunt raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Speak plainly, Ashcroft."
"It concerns your youngest son," Ashcroft said, lowering his gaze. "The one born of an Earth woman. He shows... compassion for our enemies. I fear he may betray us."
Asmunt chuckled darkly. "I have six sons, Ashcroft. Be specific."
"Fenric, my lord," Ashcroft clarified. "He has been speaking against the war, even attempting to rally others to his cause."
The king's expression hardened. "His mother's influence, no doubt. She poisoned his mind with her Earth-born ideals."
Ashcroft pressed on. "He may incite rebellion among the troops, my king. We cannot risk division in our ranks."
Asmunt's voice grew cold. "I cannot kill him, Ashcroft. His mother would take her own life, and she is still useful. We need her knowledge of Earth's weaknesses. Once the war is won, I will deal with them both."
Ashcroft bowed. "As you wish, my king. But what of Earth's God? Their people believe He will defend them."
Asmunt laughed, the sound echoing through the vast throne room. "Have you forgotten who your god is? Saturn himself stands with us. No Earth deity can match his power. We will crush their armies and their angels alike."
Ashcroft smiled, reassured by his king's confidence. "You truly have everything under control, my lord." With a final bow, he turned and left the chamber.
****
In a secluded wing of the palace, Fenric confronted his mother, Elixir. At fifteen, his mismatched appearance was a testament to his mixed heritage. His right side bore the fair complexion of his Earth-born mother, while his left side was a vivid Saltin blue. His eyes, sharp and questioning, were fixed on her.
"Mother," he began, his voice laced with frustration, "why are you helping Father against your own people?"
Elixir sighed, her gaze distant. "Do you think I have a choice, Fenric? Your father would kill us both if I refused. I overheard him once—he plans to dispose of me when I am no longer useful."
Fenric's eyes widened. "Then why stay? Why help him at all?"
"Because," Elixir said, her voice trembling, "if I stop, he will find another way. At least this way, I can delay his plans, gather information, and perhaps... find a way to stop him."
She sank into a chair, her shoulders heavy with the weight of her past. "I was an astronaut, Fenric. A scientist sent to repair a satellite when the Saltins attacked. I was the only survivor. They took me captive, made me a slave." Her voice cracked. "Your father... he forced himself upon me, and you were the result. By Saltin law, any woman who bears the king's child is bound to the palace for life."
Fenric's fists clenched. "And now he's using you to destroy Earth."
Elixir nodded, tears brimming in her eyes. "He wants my knowledge—Earth's defenses, its weaknesses. But I swear, Fenric, I will find a way to save us. To save Earth."
Fenric's resolve hardened. "Then I will help you, Mother. Together, we will stop him."
Elixir looked at her son, a flicker of hope igniting in her heart. "Be careful, my son. Your father is a dangerous man. But maybe... just maybe, we can end this war before it begins."