More Than a Mortal

New Evidence

The impending trial of Acrimon and the Genetic Council was a spectacle that demanded the attention of the entire city of Atillan. People came from miles around to surround the large building that housed the High Court when the news spread. Medusa and Blackagar had hoped to keep things quiet for as long as possible, but Acrimon's rebellion had ensured this would not be possible. Crowds of Atillanians flooded the streets and marched to the High Court. Fear and uncertainty gripped the entire city. What would happen now that the heir to the throne, Prince Acrimon, was on trial for the attempted murder of members the Royal Family? Who would assume the throne, what with Medusa and Blackagar unable to have children?

"They're afraid," Crystal muttered as she looked out the window into the sea of people.

"They have every right to feel fear," Medusa said. "The future of Atillan is now uncertain. Centuries of thriving in isolation could come to an end." She looked at Dean for a fleeting second and he felt like a weight had been placed upon him.

Thor took Dean's hand and glared at the king and queen. "Dean is not responsible for what happens to Atillan."

Medusa looked at Thor with a muted expression. "I'm not blaming him for what is happening. But I cannot allow any of us to be blind to the situation- with his refusal there is now no heir to the throne."

Steve cleared his throat and Medusa scowled. "I know this isn't my home and I know I'm out of my depth here. But there has to be an alternative."

"You are out of your depth here, Captain," Medusa replied swiftly. "The people feel secure with a Boltagon on the throne. Ever since we established our kingdom here a Boltagon has reigned. Under their ruler-ship, we have experienced an ongoing golden age of peace since we came here."

Dean sighed and looked directly at Medusa as he stepped closer to her. "I'm not going to stand here and be made to feel like it's somehow my fault that Atillan's ways are archaic," he said. "If your civilization falls apart because the ruler isn't of a certain bloodline then that's your fault- not mine. You've allowed that belief to live on."

Medusa stared at him with a measure of surprise appearing in her eyes. Few had ever spoken to the queen this way.

"My bloodline may have come from this place, but my home is earth. And I'm not going to allow myself to be emotionally blackmailed into coming here and being your king." Dean's voice held the tone of finality.

Medusa did the last thing Dean would have expected out of her- she smiled at him. She then turned to Blackagar, who began to move his hands. Her smile broadened as she looked back at Dean. "We can see that there is no persuading you. You've earned our respect, Prince Dean. Very well. We will honor your wishes."

"You will?" Dean asked, his tone now conveying surprise.

Medusa smiled. "Blackagar believes your words hold a lot of truth. And that Atillan would not be the strong nation it is if we were not prepared to rise to the challenge."

Dean looked at Thor and let out a little exhale of relief as the thunder god grinned at him.

"Now," Medusa went on. "It is time for us to go to the trial of Acrimon and the Genetic Council."

"Dr. Halen, one of the visitors from earth has requested an audience with you," the assistant said as he peaked into the office.

Dr. Halen looked up from her paperwork and nodded. "Show them in, please."

Natasha walked into the office and hopped onto the examination table. Dr. Halen walked forward and smiled. "I'm Dr. Halen, the Royal physician."

"Natasha Romanoff."