Gateway to HeVan Read Free Page B

padding she’d earned in her seventy years of living .  The chair was made for someone over seven feet tall.  Her feet hung over the edge and didn’t quite touch the floor.
    “Okay, I’m ready.  Let’s make the phone call now.” She quickly turned around and shushed her mates before they could say anything.  “Be quiet, I know how to do this.  I’ve watched all the Star Trek episodes―and not the reruns either,” she said, before turning back toward the front.
    “Communications Officer, open the hailing frequencies, please.”  She looked around to see who had responded.  When she saw him nod, she began to speak.”
    “This is Glynnis Kolrami, Beleti of the House of Purgat and Regent of HeVan.  Respond now,” she said in her best―you better do what I say or else—voice.  It had always worked with her daughter and her grandchildren so she hoped it worked now.
    Just when she was about to speak again, the forward screen lit up and she saw a man sitting in a similar chair, only it definitely fit him a little better.
    “Starships Venger and Explorer, this Gate is now under the control of the KowLer.  By energizing the Gate and passing through without permission, you have violated our laws. State your business and intentions,” he said in an angry and irritated voice.
    “First, this Gate was built and put in place by my people.  We have a treaty with the KowLer and you are in violation of it.  I would like to know what you’ve done with my Gatekeeper.  Secondly, when addressing a new person, young man, you should identify yourself.  It’s extremely rude to make demands and speak this way to people you haven’t met.  Didn’t your mother teach you any manners?” she asked in a calm but don’t mess with me tone.
    Arjun, Rune, and the other warriors turned their heads to hide their smiles.  They were a little surprised to see the Kowler warrior’s cheeks color slightly.
    “I am Ral CaliBan, Master of this Gate and Proctor of Clan CaliBan.  Your Regent Malpha updated the treaty with HeVan eleven cycles past.  All HeVanian personnel were sent home and replaced with citizens from the Clans of KowLer.  After your first transmission, I notified Clan KowLer, ruling clan of the KowLer star system,” he responded.  He stood and approached the view screen before continuing.
    “As our home planet KowLer is currently on the far side of the sun, you will need to maintain position for nine solar hours and speak with King Ben KowLer before proceeding.  The weapons of the station are armed and locked on.  You must recall your fighters and stand by.  Any signs of aggression will be met with an immediate response,” he finished.
    “Young man,” Glynnis answered , “I am shocked and surprised at your continued rudeness.  I believe I’ve explained that I am now regent— not Malpha.  Her treaty with your people is null and void.  You must deal with me now.  The fact you continue to act toward people who are your allies―and would come to your aid should you need it―in this manner, is despicable.  So I have no qualms in telling you all the Gate Station’s weapons have been disarmed and locked out beyond your control,” she said, almost shaking. 
    She motioned for Recca and Rufan to help her out of the chair.   They each took an elbow and lifted, then placed her on the floor.  She strode forward, hands on her hips, and then shook her finger at him.
    “We absolutely plan on staying here until we talk to King Ben KowLer.  I have a strong desire to give him a piece of my mind.  If you call one single warship to come near my granddaughters, you will finally succeed in making me angry.  I have hundreds of pregnant women on this ship, including the heir to the HeVanian throne.  So I highly suggest you shape up and act with civility.  I have nothing more to say to you until you can speak in a pleasant tone and with good manners.”
    After her statement, she turned and strode from the