D56
Dynasties
By James
Chapter 56: Downfall
Upon reaching the Netherworld, Dale dragged Ming to the royal palace. He'd rarely felt as nervous as he did right now. His wrists were bound as he hit the floor. What was she about to do to him?
She pulled out a blaster, then glanced at the guards. "Get out of here. I want to finish this in private."
The soldiers paused where they stood, eyeing her with tense stares.
"Go!" She fired a number of shots that exploded on the ground.
The men all jumped amidst the series of bursts, then turned around and took off running.
Ming fidgeted and panted as the shots rang out, trying his best to crawl away. Before long, he began to hear Dale's footsteps growing closer and closer, and a fresh trickle of sweat ran down his face. Her shadow inched over him little by little, until he found himself trapped in an ominous dark shade.
Then the silence arrived — long and unrelenting.
Ming gritted his teeth while quivering where he lay, not knowing when the shot was going to come. For one of the few times in his life, he felt fear and empathy. He finally knew what many of his own victims had gone through.
"Get up," she eventually said. "I want to watch you collapse after I pull the trigger."
Ming turned over. "Dale. Wait. Let's discuss this."
"The time for talk is over. I'm not a super-villain, Ming. I'm not going to taunt you. I'm just going to kill you." She pointed the weapon. "Stand up."
"Mom?" A voice called out from across the room.
Dale turned her head and saw Rick, Flash, and Hadea at the doorway.
Hadea wore a frown that was half anger, half confusion. "You went to Mongo without my permission." She began glancing back and forth between Ming and Dale. "That was the plan all along, wasn't it? You used your position here in order to interfere with an event on my daughter's planet — an event that you had no business meddling with."
"Jedda is Jade's daughter," Dale retorted.
"She's mine," Hadea said. A couple of seconds later, the queen winced in surprise. "But on that subject, how do you know Jade?"
Dale returned her stare to Ming. "She's an old friend of mine. She's the one who talked Rachel out of becoming queen again, per my request."
Rick trembled a little while listening on.
"Dale," Flash muttered. "Tevrok told us that you were behind his abduction..." Flash hesitated. It dawned on him that he was very afraid to hear her response. "Tell me that there's more to the story. Tell me it wasn't that simple."
Dale watched him for a long moment, then slowly turned away.
Flash shook his head, spinning in place as he looked upward. "Unbelievable."
"I'm sorry, Flash," she said, "but I needed a hostage who I could trade for Ming."
"You know, for the past few weeks I've been wondering why the two of us haven't really sat down and talked. You've been so distant, you've been so busy. I've wanted nothing more than to try rebuilding our bond. But I guess you don't have time for love — because you're too preoccupied with hate."
Dale's eyes dampened as she watched him. "Flash..." she murmured. "That's not true." She glanced at Ming. "The Gordons and the royals have fought for so long. This struggle has been going on for years, for decades. I'm simply trying to end it, by eliminating the source."
"This isn't the way to do that, Dale." His gaze softened. "The approach that you've chosen leads to nothing but chaos and corruption. Look at what it's doing to you. Look at what it's doing to us. You know that Tevrok is my friend, and you hurt him anyway. You know that Rick cares for Hadea, and you manipulated her. How much farther are you willing to go? If you keep this up, you're going to make our family just as chaotic as the royals."
Dale looked aside, brushing a tear away.
Rick felt light-headed while watching her. In his eyes, Dale was starting to seem a little less familiar.
Ming began to notice the younger man's reactions. He took a deep breath and gathered his courage. If he was going to die at Dale's hand, then he was going to hurt her before that happened. "Don't look so shocked, Rick Gordon. Your mother has had a dark side since before you were born. She's full of surprises. Did you know that she was the one behind the cloning device? Did you know that she tried giving it to me, so that I could multiply my army on Mongo?"
"Shut up," Dale warned him.
Rick moved his stunned gaze to Dale, noting a hint of tension in her voice.
"Have you ever known her to lie to you?" said Ming. "Go on. Ask."
Rick glanced at Flash, who greeted his gaze with a somber expression. Then he swung his stare forward again. "Mom, is that true?"
"I only did it after Ming agreed to stay away from Earth. Naturally, he didn't keep his word." She tightened her grip. "I'm going to do now what I should have done then — what I've been waiting to do ever since I awakened. I'm going to end this family feud, once and for all."
"Mom," Rick said, "the feud between the Gordons and the royals is largely over. The hostility still exists, and it probably always will...but everyone's mostly attempting to move on." He studied her for a few seconds. "None of the things you've been doing were centered around the feud. This was about you. This was all part of a plan to secretly execute Ming."
Dale turned to Rick, seeing that the hurt in his eyes matched the pain in his voice. "Why are you looking at me like that? It's what he deserves."
Rick took a step forward. "I don't care if you want to execute Ming...but I'm not okay with you killing yourself in the process."
"What are you talking about, Rick? I'm not going to kill myself."
"I didn't mean physically. I meant emotionally. The mother I know doesn't scheme, manipulate, abduct, and extort." Rick's eyes watered a little. "You're not acting like the woman whose morals I admire...you're acting like the kind of people we fight — people like Ming."
Dale trembled, eyeing Rick in shock. Once again, Ming could empathize. He was actually glad for that now, glad he sensed her pain. Amidst her many adventures, she'd felt her share of pain. She'd been beaten, stabbed, and even jolted to death. But of all the suffering that she'd endured, it seemed nothing had agonized her as much as Rick's words. Feeling pain herself was one thing, but causing her child pain was quite another.
Dale looked back at Ming, scowling as she watched him. Eventually, she lowered her weapon and stepped away, bringing him much relief. After nearly a minute of silence, her eyes became teary as she turned to Rick. "I'm sorry," she whispered.
Rick swooped forth, pulling her into his arms, and Dale closed her eyes while stroking the back of his head.
Flash approached and placed a hand on her shoulder.
Dale reached out and pulled him into the hug. "Flash..." she said quietly.
Hadea took a seat and cleared her throat. "In light of the recent events..."
"I know," said Dale. "I'll step down as acting queen." She glanced up from the table. "However, I still want to become queen again someday."
"Why?" asked Hadea, narrowing her eyes in suspicion.
"I've wanted to be Queen of the Netherworld for as long as you've wanted to be empress." Dale straightened herself in the seat. "I realize that I'm in no position to ask you for favors, but I also have another, far more important request: Look after my son."
Hadea frowned. "I don't understand."
"I can't stay here. I need some time on my own. Flash and Rick were right. In trying to destroy Ming, I could've destroyed myself." She paused, looking the other woman over. "Rick's a strong man, but right now he still needs a mother. He needs you."
The empress briefly fell silent, then gave her a nod.
"Thank you."
"What about you and Flash?"
"The two of us still have some things to sort out...but now isn't the time." She brushed a hand through her hair. "Honestly, I just want him to be happy."
Hadea looked her over. "How long do you expect to be away?"
Dale cupped her hands before her lips and released a quiet sigh. "I don't know."
The empress paused before continuing. "They love you."
Dale briefly closed her eyes, then settled her stare on the table. "And I love them."
Castra sat beside Tevrok on their thrones. "It seems that the rise and fall of Dark Dale is over," she said.
A nobleman paused at the door, then stepped into the room and lowered his head. "I have news, highness."
The princess placed her hand over Tevrok's as she braced herself. "Speak."
"Due to her guard's confession, your sister Aura has been removed from the election. She'll not become the next ruler of this kingdom."
Castra sighed in relief as she turned to her husband again.
"However, I have two other reports as well, highness...and I'm afraid that neither of them will please you."
Castra flashed a suspicious frown.
The man continued. "Hadea's forces succeeded in transporting Ming back to our planet. Upon their arrival, however, Ming succeeded in escaping. It appears that he's left Mongo."
Castra closed her eyes, running a hand over her face.
"What's the other news?" asked Tevrok, stroking his wife's palm.
The nobleman glanced away with a slow sigh. "The people of our kingdom want you to step down, highness."
The princess trembled. "What?"
"As you know, the commoners are highly...displeased, I should say, with your recent actions." He pulled off his spectacles. "Ming isn't viewed as a mere terror of the past. He launched an attack on the capital not long ago. People are still afraid that he could take over again someday.
"You had the chance to execute him, and you didn't. In the people's eyes, you put a personal matter ahead of duty to your kingdom, to your world. I'm sorry, highness, but the people intend to elect a new ruler." He turned to leave.
Castra stared after him, her mouth hanging open. Eventually, she turned toward a window, watching the kingdom's flag with stunned eyes.
Tevrok leaned over, wrapping his arms around her.
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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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