Wrath of Axia (The Arcadian Jihad) by Eric Schneider Read Free Book Online Page B

up the steps and positioned them under the five nooses. Pieter read out the charges.
    “You have been found guilty of treason, in that you attempted to subvert the legal authority of this planet. You were all aware that for workers to go on strike is illegal, yet you tried to persuade others to join you in your treasonous activities. The sentence is death.”
    One of the men tried to stumble away from the rope, but was stopped by his guards. He shouted out to Rusal.
    “Admiral, don’t let them do this. I fought to free this planet, so why are they doing this to me?”
    Rusal turned to Rad Bose. “Sir, this isn’t right. That man doesn’t deserve this, none of them do. That man fought for me and helped us win the war.”
    It was the wrong thing to say. Bose’s expression darkened. He’d been beaten by Rusal on every occasion when their fleets had clashed, and it was not helpful to remind him of it. The Grand Admiral had a simple philosophy, ‘never forgive an enemy’. He looked up at the scaffold. “Is everything ready for the executions?”
    “Yes, brother. We’re waiting for you to give the word.”
    “Very well.” He turned to the assembled crowd. Rusal knew that they would have been forced to appear here to watch the spectacle. Their faces were masks of terror and horror, but Bose ignored them.
      “These men have been sentenced to death for treason. Be aware that anyone who tries to obstruct the lawful government may suffer the same fate.”
    He looked at Rusal. “Admiral Rusal, you may give the order for the executions to begin.”
    There was a stunned silence. Rusal’s reputation as a man who believed in fair play was famous throughout the Systems. He stared at the Commander in Chief.
    “No. I still do not believe these proceedings are legal.”
    “Are you refusing to obey an order, damn you?” Bose barked.
    “No, Sir. But no officer should obey an illegal order.”
    “This is your last chance, Admiral. Give the order, now!”
    “I’m sorry, I must refuse.”
    “Very well, you are dismissed from your command. Get out of my sight. Pieter, begin the executions.”
    Rusal walked away with his head held high, but his heart was heavy. He heard the crash of the trapdoors and the creak of the ropes taking up the strain of their burdens. The crowd that was gathered to watch was almost silent. There was only the odd wail, the sobbing of a wife or mother as their loved one died. He walked into his office and began packing his personal effects. His adjutant, Captain Ban Cantar, knocked and entered the office.
    “Sir, I’ve just heard the news. May I say how appalled I am. This is disgraceful. Can’t you appeal?”
    Rusal smiled. “No, Captain, Grand Admiral Bose has given the order, so it can’t be appealed.”
    “But President Bartok, Sir, he can review it.”
    Rusal smiled. “Bartok is good friend of Rad Bose.”
    The captain said nothing for a few moments. Then he came forward and saluted. “In that case, Sir, may I say it has been an honor serving with you.”
    Rusal returned the salute. “Thank you, Captain.”
    “One more thing, Sir.”
    “Yes, Captain?”
    “We all know how difficult things have become on Hesperia. If there’s anything you need, contact me and I will do my best to help. You know you can trust me.”
    “I know that and I appreciate the offer. I’ll bear it in mind.”
    He left the office. It was time to make contact with his friends and allies. This planet, perhaps the whole of the Nine Systems, was gripped by a cruel tyranny. It had to be stopped. It was time for the rebellion to begin. Five bodies were swinging in the light breeze that swirled across the parade ground. The crowd had almost dispersed, and only a ghoulish few were left to survey the execution. He pulled out his personal communicator and checked the display. It was still on a secure, private channel. He pressed the button and within seconds it answered.
    “Biermann.”
    “It happened, Max. I’ve