D20
Dynasties
By James
Chapter 20: Discipline
Clad in a military doublet and pants, Rick strode through the royal palace of Mongo. Upon reaching the throne room, he shoved a door open and barged inside. "Where's Phantom?"
Hadea lifted an eyebrow, then leaned back in the chair. "I've a better question: Why aren't you kneeling?"
Rick caught his breath, and wiped his brow. "Just tell me where he is."
"Not until you show the proper courtesy."
Rick rolled his eyes. "I'm not kneeling. I don't have time for these little games."
Hadea spread her arms over the chair's. "Why are you looking for him?"
Rick hesitated, full of distrust. "About an hour from now, I'm supposed to address the men under my command. I need advice."
"And why is that?"
He chuckled, not sounding amused. "Have you forgotten where we are? This is Mongo. My father was public enemy number one for years. And now his son is supposed to lead the Royal Guards?" He shook his head. "I don't know how I let the Phantom talk me into this."
The queen watched as he began to pace.
"We've been here for days, and I still haven't met any of my teammates." Rick glanced at the ceiling. "And judging by some of the looks that I'm getting, that's probably a good thing."
Hadea ran a finger along her chin.
"How am I supposed to win these people over?" Rick asked. "And even if I do, how am I going to lead them afterwards?"
She held quiet, staring at him.
"What?" he uttered, coming to a halt.
"It's hard to believe that you and I have something in common," Hadea said. "When I first arrived, I received the same looks of distrust that you're getting now. The people here weren't so quick to embrace me either. But as you may have noticed, things are changing."
Over the past few days, Rick had noticed a slight shift in the people's demeanor toward Hadea. It actually perplexed him. A majority of nobles still harbored distrust and resentment toward the golden-haired queen. But a small circle had begun to express a degree of tolerance, bordering on respect.
None of this had been accomplished through foul play; Rick could tell that it was completely natural.
For the next few moments, he fought the urge to ask a certain question, but slowly found himself giving in. "What exactly do I have to do?"
"Pardon?"
"How did you begin making progress here? Tell me the secret of your success."
"What works for me won't work for you. You're going to have to make progress in your own way."
"And how am I supposed to do that?"
Hadea studied him carefully. "From what I can tell, there are three enemies that you need to overcome at present."
Rick eyed her with a suspicious stare.
"The first of those, is your own pride."
He scoffed. "And how exactly is that an 'enemy.' "
"First of all, it disposes you to an arrogant and closed-minded demeanor — such as the one you're displaying right now, for example."
He glanced off and rolled his eyes again.
"It also leads to juvenile displays such as that." Hadea's voice was bordering on anger now.
Upon looking back at her, Rick sighed, then willed his face into a half composed expression.
"And it's causing you to lose sight of your current objective. We're not here to quarrel, we're here to help Mongo. This is neither the time or place to prove how defiant you can be. I am a queen, and you are a knight — and that means that as long as you are serving under me, I expect you to act accordingly in my presence."
He fidgeted a tad, trying not to show it.
"Approach the throne...and kneel."
After a moment of hesitation, Rick sighed, closed his eyes, and then opened them and moved toward Hadea. Upon reaching her, he paused again, then slowly dropped to one knee.
"There," she said after a few seconds had passed, "that isn't so terrible, is it?"
Rick stewed, holding quiet as he watched the floor.
"Now that you've overcome your pride — for the moment, at least — the second enemy that you need to face is doubt."
Rick began to mumble. "Why would you say that?" The question didn't sound at all sincere.
"Weren't you just expressing concerns about your charisma...about your ability to 'win people over,' as you put it?"
Rick lowered his head a little, feeling a familiar hollowness spreading through him.
"I may not know you as well as your friends do, but I'm going to assume this much to be true: You've had three major loves in your life — your love for flying, your love for Jedda, and, naturally, your love for adventure."
Rick felt a nervous tingle stir his spine. He immediately wondered how Hadea could draw such an accurate assessment. Before long, he convinced himself that she'd just made a few lucky guesses.
"Close your eyes," she said.
He complied slowly.
"Think back. Recall the first time that you convinced a flight instructor to let you fly alone."
Rick shook a bit, wondering why Hadea would even bring this up. It felt strange to have her examine something personal in his life. And yet, he could feel the memory calling out, beckoning him to indulge in the pleasure that it would bring. He resisted at first, but eventually gave in, recalling how exciting it had felt to fly a plane on his own.
"Now I want you to remember the first time that you charmed Jedda into 'going out' with you."
Rick hesitated, but complied once more. He recalled how nervous he'd felt before asking Jedda out — and how excited he'd gotten after she'd said yes.
"And finally, recall the first time that you persuaded your father to bring you on a mission."
A slow grin crept across Rick's face now. He thought back to the day that a childhood dream had finally come true.
"What did you feel in your heart prior to those conversations?"
"I..." Rick paused, barely hearing himself mumble. "I felt the same thing that I'm feeling now. I had plenty of worries...plenty of doubts."
"Yet you met with success on every occasion," Hadea said. "So why should anything be different this time? If you could convince people elsewhere to believe in you, then you can convince people here to do the same."
Rick flinched, glancing upward. He couldn't help wondering what was stranger: the fact that Hadea was trying to comfort him, or the fact that she appeared to be succeeding.
Hadea lifted her chin. "We've covered pride. We've covered doubt." She tapped a finger. "The final challenge that you need to overcome is fear — not a fear of your teammates, but of the job itself."
Rick quivered, then licked his lips. "I'm not afraid of being a knight."
"But I think that you are afraid of being a leader."
A familiar tension stirred his bones.
"For many years now, you've been a follower. I assume that you've grown content with that."
Rick turned his head, hiding his eyes.
"But you're the son of Flash Gordon, and that means that people expect great things from you. I imagine that's brought you a good deal of anxiety at times."
Rick grew curious as her words sunk in. Of all the people he'd met across the galaxy, he'd never expected that Hadea would be someone who could empathize with him. She was wiser than he'd given her credit for.
"There's only one way to learn whether your fears are warranted...and that's to begin doing the job that you agreed to do."
With a slow sigh, Rick began to stand.
"Remain where you are until I tell you to rise."
Rick winced a little, then lowered himself back to his knee.
"Don't misunderstand my purpose." Hadea brushed back a lock of her hair. "I haven't made you kneel to make you feel inferior. I repeat: I am a queen, and you are my knight. In order for us to find success here, there's something that we need to establish and adhere to: discipline.
"It allows for courtesy in the absence of respect. In other words, it allows people to work together even if they don't like each other."
He drew his lips toward the side of his face, simply watching her.
Hadea leaned back in the chair. "Rise now, Rick."
He stood, looking aside with a shrug. "So you're going to use my name."
"What did you expect? 'Servant boy?' " She paused. "As I said, as long as I receive proper courtesy from you, you'll receive the same from me." After another moment of silence, Hadea spoke up again. "That will be all."
Rick wasn't sure what he was feeling at present, but he knew that it wasn't the same as what he'd felt when he entered. After throwing one last glance at Hadea, he turned and walked to the door.
One hour later, Rick stood before seven other men wearing Mongoian armor. All had gathered just outside the palace.
"My name is Rick Gordon." He paused to take a breath. "Some of you may recognize me. After all, my father opposed Ming for a very long time — and there were several occasions on which I helped him do it." Rick looked from one green-skinned man to another, spotting folded arms and hands on hips. The group seemed to be filled with boldness, skepticism, curiosity, and uncertainty. "During that time, I know that many of you served because you were forced to serve — because Ming threatened you, or threatened your families." Rick looked down and rubbed the back of his head. "If there's one thing that all of us can agree on, it's that Mongo is in better shape now than it was back then." He lifted his head, pausing to look each of them in the eye. "And, like you, I'm here to make sure that it stays that way."
The men held silent, keeping their attention on Rick.
"That means that while your leader is away, I'm the guy who's going to be filling his role. I'm going to be your leader now." Rick crossed his arms, looking around the circle again. "And in case you're wondering, the answer is no — I don't expect to do as good a job as he did...
"I expect to do an even better one."
A few eyebrows rose among the group.
"If anyone wants to help make that happen, step forth, and let me know now." Rick tightened his fist, extending it within the circle.
After a few moments, another hand reached out and joined his. Seconds later, another followed, and another as well. Once everyone's fists had joined together, the men nodded at each other, and lowered their hands.
Afterward, Rick received several more looks of calm curiosity, some of which appeared to be bordering on respect.
Upon glancing toward the palace, Rick paused in surprise.
Hadea looked on from atop a balcony, a hint of fascination lurking in her expression.
Later in the evening, the Phantom joined Hadea in the royal bedroom.
"I hear that you and Rick had a discussion earlier."
Hadea tucked Vera in and ran a hand across her hair. "Nothing particularly special about it."
"Well, whatever you said, it seems to have had a positive effect on him."
Hadea shrugged. "The boy was feeling a little lost. I simply tried helping him find his way."
The Phantom took a seat on the bed. "I suspect that we might need to do that from time to time."
" 'We?' " She scoffed. "I already have Jedda and a granddaughter to worry about. I won't be needing a petulant son anytime soon."
He chuckled. "All I'm saying is that Rick might be a lot for me to handle alone. He has a good head on his shoulders, but he can be reckless at times...so just do me a favor and help me keep an eye on him."
After a few seconds, Hadea slowly nodded.
Turning toward the balcony, the Phantom took one last glance at the night sky, then began to rise.
"So," said Hadea with a smirk, "it appears that we'll be sharing a bed this evening."
"Actually..." He found himself hesitating. "I think I'll be taking the nearest guest room."
Hadea spread herself across the covers. "Well then...you know where to find me."
He hid a smile while exiting. "Good night, Hadea." The door closed behind him.
She lay back, staring at the ceiling as she murmured under her breath. "And of course, I know where to find you too."
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Chapters
Volume I
Shorly after Jedda leaves the team, Queen Hadea begins a galactic conquest.
Jedda finds herself back on Mongo — and reunited with Prince Krotan.
Despite their affection, Jedda endeavors to counter Hadea's plans.
Seeking to resolve the matter with Hadea, the Defenders begin a climactic mission on Mongo.
Rick enjoys a meaningful reunion.
Volume II
Jedda and Krotan confront their feelings.
Against the wishes of his wife, Krotan grows tempted to pursue a vendetta.
Rick has a difficult time moving on.
In the wake of Krotan's actions, Jedda faces a difficult choice.
Hadea reunites with an old acquaintance.
The Royals of Mongo organize what's supposed to be a friendly feast.
A glimpse into the future on Mongo.
Volume III
Instead of spending a romantic evening together, as Jedda intended, Hadea and Phantom find themselves pursued.
Amid their exploits, Phantom and Hadea discuss personal matters.
Flash visits Ming's prison while thinking of Dale, and Rick learns that a new girl will be joining the team.
A vengeful woman targets Jedda.
The Defenders face an internal crisis.
Will she choose affection or ambition?
Needing to depart Mongo on business, Jedda and Krotan ask Hadea and Phantom to fill in for them temporarily.
Volume IV
As the enormity of his situation sinks in, an anxious Rick finds unexpected comfort.
Hadea continues to counsel Rick by reminding him that his actions have consequences.
Phantom and Hadea are advised to marry.
The acting rulers face a variety of issues on their big day.
The Defenders consider returning to solo work.
Volume V
Krotan and Jedda try to find time for their marriage while tending to duty.
Someone from Jedda's past returns.
Krotan and the guards attempt to defend the kingdom without Jedda.
Krotan and Ming have another confrontation under different circumstances.
Flash and Rick have a personal discussion.
As Rick prepares to leave the team, he and LJ receive a surprise visit.
Volume VI
The new trio embarks on a mission.
The Phantom is left startled by the recent development.
After spending a couple of days with Jedda, Rachel departs for the tme being.
In the future, Vera receives advice and comfort from her mother.
Jedda reflects on the recent years.
In the aftermath of an attack on her land, Hadea seeks help from a mercenary.
Flash is stunned by his discovery on a distant planet.
Volume VII
Hadea makes an announcement that leaves the Phantom unsettled.
The Phantom works to undo his mistakes.
In the future, the Royals of Mongo enjoy quality time together.
Rachel assists LJ and Hadea in very different ways.
Rachel adjusts to her new position awkwardly.
With Rachel and Jedda at her side, Hadea learns more about the history of her kingdom.
Volume VIII
The Phantom plans to propose.
Hadea and the Phantom attempt to work through their issues.
Rachel visits Hadea to discuss new intentions.
The Defenders confront a group of aliens who have descended on Earth, while Ming continues to scheme behind the scenes.
Flash, Rick, and Krotan engage Ming in battle.
Jade reunites briefly with her daughters.
A special occasion has finally arrived.
Volume IX
Rick has a meeting with Zyna that leaves him staggered.
Flash and Rick travel to another planet to investigate news.
Dale begins to set her agenda in motion.
The Royals of Mongo have a lengthy discussion about the past and future.
Dale takes bold steps forward.
Flash and Rick confront Dale to discuss her actions.
Empress Hadea appoints new queens.
Volume X
In the future, the royals have a discussion about politics on Mongo.
LJ and Lothar discuss family affairs.
Jedda views her official government profile to learn where she ranks among Mongoian queens.
Castra and Aura look to put their differences aside.
The Phantom learns more about Hadea's duties.
Volume XI
The Phantom, Hadea, and Rachel depart for a mission in the Bandar village.
Rachel heads off to find Kurt on her own.
Dale provides answers for Rachel.
Jade observes a significant discussion beween Phantom and Kurt.
Phantom learns that the village mission affected Hadea on a personal level.
Volume XII
Jedda and Krotan renew their commitment.
Krotan pampers Jedda as they discuss the future.
Nearly everyone joins the Phantom for a mission via boat.
The group arrives on Raven Island and learns the identity of the opposing team's leader.
Flash, Dale, and Rick spend time with Flash's sister, Commander Abigail Gordon, and her daughter Sara.
Rick and Kristina head off on a late-night mission.
Kristina, Rick, and Hadea confront their personal matters.
Once again, someone lands on Mandrake's yard during a storm.
Volume XIII
A woman arrives in the Netherworld, claiming to be the rightful ruler.
LJ, Rick, and Rachel investigate the Netherworld matter.
Flash and Dale's date is interrupted by news that Rick has been captured, and it's up to Kristina to save him.
While grouped together one night, several people must team up suddenly in order to defend the mansion.
Atascadero discusses her upbringing with Mandrake.
Volume XIV
Soldiers from Atascadero's kingdom come looking for her.
Ata heads to her kingdom to resolve the issues there.
Vera begins learning more about Jedda's past.
In response to the recent events, Hadea makes a controversial decision.
Rick attempts to resolve a certain personal issue.
Rick and his girlfriend decide to go their separate ways.
Flash, Dale, and Rick reunite with Dale's father, as well as Flash's.
Jonathan Gordon becomes overzealous, leading to repercussions.
Flash and Dale chase Ming down.
Kristina bonds with Rick in the aftermath of the events at the base.
Volume XV
In the future, Jedda and Krotan have to teach Vera the value of humility.
In the future, Vera is courted by several boys.
Rick and Kristina become stranded on an island.
Hadea is approached by an old suitor.
Kristina and Rick grow closer while stuck on the island.
Ata and Mandrake discuss their relationship.
Castra and her husband have a talk about their longtime commitment.
Krotan and Jedda discuss the past, and look to the future.
Flash and Dale reaffirm their feelings.
The series finale.
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