Shauna

As we approached Earth, the Corin's presence was already palpable, casting a shadow of terror over the planet. The Hominins, gripped by fear, scurried into hiding, desperate to evade the Corin's indiscriminate feeding. Despite the Bellicose's timely arrival, their efforts to contain the situation were only partially successful. The Corin, displaying unexpected tactical acumen, anticipated the Bellicose's maneuvers, thwarting many of their attempts to gain the upper hand.

Within mere hours, the Corin had captured numerous Hominins, corralling them like cattle in a makeshift camp on Staten Island, ready to be devoured. Hawk, leading the Bellicose forces, orchestrated their movements through the chaos, desperately seeking any advantage. With the situation escalating rapidly, they initiated negotiations, hoping to secure the release of the captured Hominins. The tension was palpable as they prepared to confront the Corin, knowing that the outcome of these talks could tip the scales in this unforeseen conflict.

As the Eagles swooped down, their powerful wings cutting through the air, the Bellicose forces quickly moved into a heightened state of readiness. I leapt from the Eagle, my feet hitting the ground with a determination fueled by urgency. "Princess, what are you doing here?" Hawk demanded, his tone a mix of surprise and concern.

"It's good to see you too, Hawk," I replied quickly, brushing off his informal greeting. "We don't have time for pleasantries. What's the situation?" I pressed, eager to understand the extent of the crisis.

Viper, always the strategic one, briefed us without delay. "The Corin have about 200 Hominins trapped, possibly already feeding on them. We've been trying to negotiate their release," he explained, his face grim.

"You can't negotiate with Corin," Cell interjected sharply, a trace of bitterness in his voice.

Hawk shot Cell a disdainful look. "Glad you know your kind," he retorted coldly, causing a tense silence.

Viper, ever the peacemaker, extended his hand to Cell, acknowledging him with a respectful nod. Though they shared little warmth, Viper always treated Cell with decency, calling him by his name without any derogatory terms.

Just then, the Corin leader, Sar, emerged with a chilling presence. Several Hominins stood in front of him, effectively human shields. "The princess has returned home," Sar announced, his voice echoing with a sinister pleasure.

"I am here," I responded, maintaining a calm demeanor despite the palpable threat. "And I see you were expecting me."

"Absolutely. You coming here was part of the plan," Sar revealed with a sly grin.

"Well, you have me now," I declared, stepping forward with resolve.

"You are a species sympathizer," Sar noted, eyeing me carefully. "What do you think of our kind?"

Choosing my words carefully, I replied, "I believe that like anyone else, you need to be understood."

Sar's smile widened malevolently. "Smart girl. I will release half of the Hominins in exchange for a private conversation with you."

Without hesitation, I agreed. "Deal." I began to walk toward him, but Hawk grabbed my arm, his concern palpable. "Are you serious? He's going to kill you," he protested.

"Then I will die for a cause," I countered firmly, pulling away from his grasp. "I need you to focus less on me and more on the people inside."

Cell stepped forward, his expression set in determination. "You're not going alone. I'm coming with you," he declared.

Hawk, conflicted and worried, stepped aside reluctantly. "If anything happens to her—" he started.

"If anything happens to her, I'll kill myself," Cell interrupted, his voice steady and serious. Hawk met his gaze and saw the truth in his eyes. He knew Cell meant every word.

We made our way into the dimly lit interior of the Statue of Liberty, the air thick with tension and uncertainty. As we entered, Sar, the Corin leader, motioned to his followers, and they began releasing the Hominin hostages as agreed. Once freed, the hostages quickly exited, their expressions a mix of relief and fear.

"I didn't think you'd actually come, but you are special," Sar remarked as he circled me, his gaze curious yet calculating. "What's your name?" I asked, aiming to establish some level of dialogue.

"Sar," he replied simply, continuing to assess me with a scrutinizing look.

"So, you brought me here just to stare?" I challenged, feeling his intense gaze as he sniffed the air around me, trying to decipher something unseen.

"You are unique. Tell me why?" he probed, his voice deep and resonant.

"I suppose because I am half Hominin and half Sentinel," I responded, trying to keep my tone neutral.

"No, that's not it. There's something more, something that resonates since I entered your presence," Sar said cryptically. He glanced at Cell, then back at me, his eyes narrowing slightly in thought.

"Okay, what is it that you really want from me?" I pressed, wanting to cut through his vague insinuations.

"Marcell promised me freedom to roam Earth as we wish once he gains the crown. But I know that promise is as hollow as a dying star. Once he secures power, my kind will be worse than extinct. And the new power he seeks... it could end us all. I believe you are more trustworthy," Sar explained, his tone hinting at a mixture of respect and desperation.

"I am," I affirmed, my voice steady.

He sniffed the air around me again, causing Cell to tense beside me, his protective instincts flaring. "It makes sense, but what 'new power' are you talking about?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

"Pandora's box," Sar said solemnly. "If Marcell manages to open it, you won't be able to stop him. You're barely a god," he remarked, a hint of mockery in his voice as his eyes shifted between Cell and me.

The mention of Pandora's box sent a chill down my spine. The implications were enormous and terrifying. Marcell's ambitions could potentially unleash chaos not just on Earth, but across the entire Solar System. I needed to act, but first, I needed to understand exactly what I was up against.

The revelation hit me like a bolt of lightning. Sar's mocking tone made the room spin as he continued to unravel the consequences of our actions. His sharp gaze pierced through the confusion, seeming to read our fears. "You've blood traded," he smirked knowingly. His nostrils flared slightly as he inhaled deeply. "I can smell the blood on your breath," he declared with a mix of amusement and accusation.

Cell's temper flared, his jaw tightening. "And what of it?" he snapped, the tension between them palpable.

Sar's laughter echoed ominously around the room. "A Corin blood trading with a princess—oh, how fortunes rise in the Solar," he taunted. I tried to regain control of the conversation, eager to steer away from our personal matters and back to the pressing issues at hand. "Let's focus on what you want. I'm here to ensure my people's safety," I asserted firmly.

Sar paused, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Before we proceed, are you fully aware of what your blood trade entails? It's quite rare for royalty, but not impossible... if there's true love," he probed, watching us squirm under his scrutiny.

"Yes, we are fully aware of our actions. Can we move on now?" I urged, feeling a mix of irritation and anxiety.

"Very well," Sar conceded. "My first demand is for animals to be sent to our planet. We prefer not to feast on Hominins—they are quite delectable, of course, but we seek to preserve our existence without dependence on them," he explained.

I nodded, thinking on my feet. "Prince Torell is already developing a vegetation plan. I'm confident he can extend it to include your needs in exchange for your assurance to leave Hominins and other species unharmed," I proposed.

Sar considered this for a moment before adding, "Acceptable. But I require one more thing. The Corin women held by your council for their involvement in assassination plots—they must be released."

I was taken aback. "What do you mean?" I asked, a sense of dread building.

"Marcell was cunning, persuading them to ensure his ascension to power. Since they failed, he'll eliminate them unless they are freed. I suppose since you're bearing a Corin offspring, it's only fitting they be released," Sar insinuated with a sly grin.

I froze, my hand instinctively touching my stomach. "I'm not pregnant," I stated flatly, though a wave of uncertainty washed over me.

"How could you know? It's barely been a day," Cell interjected, his voice laced with concern and confusion.

Sar laughed coldly. "A Sentinel upbringing has left you naive about your own capabilities," he mocked.

"Why would you say that?" I demanded, standing to face him squarely.

"You get this for free: in our culture, if two beings truly love each other, they mate through blood trading. You mated just hours ago, and the continuous trading... you were conceiving all along," he revealed, leaving me stunned and reeling from the implications.

Sar's revelation hung heavy in the air, his words laced with a certainty that made my heart race. "We Corin can smell a pregnancy of our kind within 24 hours of conception. Given your union with a half-Corin, your child maybe born naturally as a Hominin, but make no mistake—you are indeed pregnant, and it's a boy," he declared with a knowing smirk.

His announcement left me stunned, my mind reeling as I tried to process the implications. I snapped my fingers reflexively, a gesture that caused the Corin around us to kneel. The power that surged through me was both exhilarating and terrifying. "If you're lying to me..." I started, my voice trailing off, overwhelmed by the mix of emotions.

Sar chuckled softly, his gaze intense. "Such power indeed. It has been prophesied that one would arise, capable of uniting species with a child—a ruler unlike any before. You are that prophesied leader, and your child will change the cosmos," he proclaimed confidently.

I touched my stomach instinctively, the reality of his words sinking in. I felt a swirl of potential and fear, the weight of a destiny I was only beginning to understand. "I expect you to vacate Earth within 20 minutes," I declared firmly, regaining my composure.

As I walked out of the Statue of Liberty, the shock and awe of the moment overwhelmed me, and I felt my knees buckle. The world spun, and darkness edged my vision as I passed out.

"What did they do to her?" I heard Hawk's voice filled with concern as he rushed to my side.

"Nothing," Cell responded calmly, kneeling beside me. "She's just in shock. I'll let her explain when she's ready." His voice was a steady anchor in the tumult of my swirling thoughts.

Cell stayed by my side, gently helping me regain my senses after I collapsed. As consciousness took hold again, a fierce resolve filled me, transforming my demeanor. I rose steadily to my feet, my voice ringing with authority. "Let's ensure a safe passage for them back to their planet. And by the way, our Council has been slain. Release the Corin women responsible for their deaths immediately," I commanded with a cold clarity.

Hawk interjected, his tone laced with disbelief, "You can't be serious! Someone must answer for this."

"Enough death has occurred today. I refuse to let more blood stain our hands," I declared firmly, my decision final. Without waiting for further discussion, I strode towards the waiting Eagle. Cell reached out as if to speak, but I was already mounting the creature, ready to leave the turmoil behind. As the Eagle took flight, I left them to ponder the new path I had chosen, driven by a mandate that felt both ancient and terrifyingly new.

Discovering I'm a long-lost princess isn't frightening. Nor is the realization that divine blood courses through my veins. Even being abandoned or thrust into battle doesn't intimidate me. But the weight of responsibility for another life is utterly terrifying. I don't even understand my true feelings for Cell, and yet I'm carrying his child. It's a fear that grips me like nothing else.

Returning to Eminence, I found chaos reigning supreme. The Council, as warned by the Corin, had disbanded. My father was overwhelmed with myriad issues, leaving me unsure of where I fit in. Marcell had been apprehended and imprisoned, yet I couldn't bring myself to confront Cell. It wasn't anger I felt towards him, but a deep confusion and fear that left me paralyzed, unsure of my next move.

In the throne room with my father, we deliberated over the suitable punishment for Marcell. "You're quieter than usual," he observed. "What's on your mind?"

"I'm afraid of how you might see me after I tell you this," I admitted, the words heavy with unease.

"My view of you could never be diminished. Whatever it is, we'll face it together," he reassured me, his voice steady and supportive.

Taking a deep breath, I let out the truth. "Cell and I... we blood traded."

He nodded, unsurprised. "Are you feeling any addiction? Or is it something else?"

"It's not the addiction... I'm pregnant," I confessed, unable to meet his gaze.

"Pregnancy from blood trading? You know it only occurs if both parties are truly in love, right? Normally, blood trading doesn't lead to pregnancies or transmit diseases," he explained, then paused, processing the implications. "Wait—do you love him?"

I struggled with the question. "I don't know. I've never been in love before. I keep telling myself it must be the blood trade influencing these feelings," I said, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

He shook his head gently. "You're powerful, like me. Blood trading doesn't affect us as it does others. Let's give it a few more weeks, then consult a doctor to confirm. No matter the outcome, I support you completely," he assured me, embracing me warmly.

As he released me, the doors opened, and Torell entered. "I apologize for interrupting, but it's time to select the new council," he announced.

My father turned to me with a decisive nod. "Actually, I think it's fitting for the future Queen to choose her own council."

"Really?" I responded, surprised and somewhat daunted by the responsibility.

"Absolutely," he affirmed.

"Then I choose Trevor, Kiser, Siren, Viper, Torell, reluctantly Hawk, and of course, Cell as the preliminary members. I'll leave some seats open until I find suitable candidates to fill them," I declared, feeling a mix of empowerment and anxiety.

Torell nodded, ready to take action. "I'll inform everyone. We'll convene our first meeting tomorrow and hold a press briefing afterwards."

"That sounds perfect," I agreed, my resolve firming. This was the beginning of a new chapter, and despite the uncertainties, I felt ready to lead.

Cell

I entered the somber depths of my father's prison cell before heading to the Council meeting. The air was thick with the residue of past conversations and unyielding stone. "Father," I greeted him, the title feeling heavier each time it left my lips.

"Son, I heard you're the newest council member," he said, his voice carrying a mix of pride and something darker I couldn't quite place. His smile didn't reach his eyes.

"How do you still hear things down here?" I asked, genuinely curious despite the tension.

"Come on now, I still have some secrets," he chuckled lightly, as if the damp, oppressive walls weren't enough to snuff out his networks.

"What do I owe this visit?" he inquired, shifting slightly in his confined space.

"I want you to stop coming for Shauna. She is pregnant with my child, your grandson," I pleaded, hoping the news might soften his stance.

"Is that a fact? My son knocked up the Princess, I couldn't be prouder," he responded, his tone laced with sarcasm.

"I am asking as your son," I said, my voice firm, trying to bridge the gulf of years and betrayals between us.

"What makes you think I will stop what is already in motion? My son? My son who betrayed me at every turn wants me to show mercy for his crossbred offspring. Have I taught you nothing? She will turn on you," he hissed, and I knew then that no plea would change his course.

Frustrated and disheartened, I walked out of the dungeon, the weight of our fractured relationship pressing down on me. I made my way to the council room, my thoughts clouded with dark forebodings.

As I entered, my eyes immediately found Shauna. She was beautiful, radiant even in the midst of political intrigue. A sudden, overwhelming sensation washed over me—my eyes turning red, a hunger unlike any other consuming me.

Kiser approached, noticing my distress. "Hey, you good?" she asked, concern flickering in her eyes.

"Yes. How are you?" I managed, pushing back the strange emotions.

"I am good. Tell me, what is it we do because being on the council seems like a big deal," she inquired, her curiosity genuine.

"Well, we make final Solar decisions. We ultimately agree or disagree with the Crown. She chose us for a reason," I explained, trying to regain my composure.

"Maybe because she knows we all want what's best for the Solar," she mused, then glanced at Shauna. "Shauna doesn't know how to be a Queen, let alone your girlfriend. Stop waiting for her and go get her. Let her know you are never letting go," she advised before walking over to Torell.

"Trouble in Paradise, brother?" Hawk teased as he joined me.

"Wouldn't that make your day?" I retorted, feeling the sting of his words more than I wanted to admit.

I took my seat, trying to focus on the impending council session, but as Shauna made eye contact with me before sitting on the throne, all thoughts of politics faded. Whatever lay between us, unresolved and tense, demanded attention I could no longer deny.

Shauna's voice filled the council chamber with a tone of purpose and resolution as she outlined the roles and expectations for each of her newly appointed council members. Her gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of each person she entrusted with the future of the Solar.

"Thank you all for accepting the invitation to be my council. No one outside this room knows me the way each of you do, and I hope that when I am making decisions, each of you bring something, whether it be honesty, respect, protection, or wisdom," she began, setting the tone for her administration.

"Cell is our political typhoon. He will ensure we follow all rules and show us how to make new ones, or possibly do away with old ones," she continued, acknowledging my role with a nod that conveyed her high expectations.

"Hawk and Viper are our protection and will look out for the council and Solar's safety. I want you to build safety patrols throughout the Solar. We need to know about the other planets we have abandoned or know nothing about. Otherwise, we can expect attacks every year."

She then turned her attention to Trevor. "Trevor is my royal advisor. He writes any statements that leave the Palace and all my speeches. He knows how I speak and feel, so I give you the honor. He will also handle the press for us. I need you dressed in your best at all times."

"Torell will be over the agricultural aspect. I want you working closely with Hominin, and who better to be by your side than a Hominin woman, Kiser. She can help you on Earth."

Finally, she addressed Siren. "Last but not least, Siren will be Species Relations. He can speak every language and he will head the Species Desegregation Act. I have thought long and hard about what I want the Solar to look and be like. All this half-breed/crossbred talk is out the window. We will not be like the old council."

Her declaration was firm and inclusive, a direct challenge to the old ways of thinking and governance. "We meet one day out of the month unless we have major business. I want everyone on the council making change, not ordering it. If there are no questions, Trevor, prepare a statement to the press."

With that, Shauna quickly left the throne, her departure swift as she attempted to avoid further interaction, particularly with me. Her avoidance was palpable, setting a complicated undertone to the otherwise straightforward directives she had laid out for her council. As she exited, a mix of admiration and unresolved tension lingered in the air, challenging each of us to rise to the occasion she had set before us.