Ghost in Her Heart @page { margin-bottom: 5.000000pt; margin-top: 5.000000pt; } � Ghost In Her Heart � by Autumn Dawn � � SMASHWORDS EDITION � � * * * * * � � PUBLISHED BY: Autumn Dawn on Smashwords � Ghost In Her Heart Copyright © 2010 by Autumn Dawn www.autumndawnbooks.com � � All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. � This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. * * * * * � � � � She’s the essence of our favorite beer labels and tattoos, as harmless and homey as a recycled bottle of scotch lager. ~ a dream � Prologue � �śThe situation is getting grim, Dagon.” Dagon turned his back on the fire-streaked sky. The night breeze ruffled his short dark hair, caressing his damaged cheek with lover’s promise. Pity it was the only lover he was likely to have in his lifetime. Not that he wanted a wife. Unfortunately, to get what he did want, a wife was required. �śAnd you expect me to do what, Ser? Conjure more women from vapor? Personally impregnate our few surviving women with female babes?” His hands curled around the stone balcony rail. It was as unforgiving as their future. Even if the women who’d survived their enemy’s virus managed to conceive�"a feat in itself�"none of them ever dropped girl children. If by some miracle all of them gave birth the next day to twin girls, there still wouldn’t be enough women to go around, and those babes would take years to mature. Ironically, they couldn’t even steal women from their enemy, for the virus had infected their women as well, devastating their population. It looked as if their generation’s long war was going to end in total destruction. The triple moons cast a pale light over Dagon’s scarred face. The shiny acid burn ran in a narrow, long streak from his left eye and curved behind his ear. The arc looked like whimsical silver paint, but there was nothing smiling in Dagon’s manner as he listened to his friend Ser’s arguments. �śWe find women or we die out. I, for one, am not willing to give up hope,” Ser leaned forward as he argued, intent on winning. Laser torches sprang to life as their companions lit the darkness. There were more than a dozen warriors gathered that night; grim veterans desperately seeking some hope for the future. �śWhat of the tunnels?” an older man asked. �śWhat would we do with them?” Dagon countered. �śOur enemies have the same problem as we do. Their women will be of no use to us.” The tunnels had been useful for teleporting into their unsuspecting enemy’s territory in lightning-fast strikes. Unfortunately, they had developed counter-technology and the tunnels had fallen into disuse. He couldn’t see how they’d be any use now. �śThere were rumors,” the man, Xcallion, said slowly. �śThat the tunnels had been used to explore other worlds. Worlds with no lack of women. Compatible women, who could breed daughters.” Silence met his words. No one wanted to speak of their sudden hope. �śI’ve been there; to a place called Earth,” Xcallion went on. �śWe were not allowed to talk about it, but I saw the women. Some of them were very beautiful.” The lone female among them, an aged, revered lady called Ellyn, spoke up. �śIf you speak the truth, Xcallion, and you go after these women, as I’m sure many of you are already thinking of doing, you must find a way to do it without causing more pain than must be.” Still stunned by the idea of available women, a whole world’s worth, Dagon demanded, �śWhat do you mean?” He wanted to find the tunnels tonight and see these women for himself. Perhaps choose a dozen. �śSome of these women will have families, friends, perhaps even husbands or children. You need some way of discovering which are free to come. You can not make them leave their husbands or babies.” There was a general murmur of agreement. Dagon nodded. The laws of their world decreed a slow, painful death to a man who stole someone else’s woman. Besides, he wanted a woman who was eager for his touch, not wasting her energy pining for another. She’d need all her energy just to keep pace with him. �śWe need a trap.” �śYou are not hunting, Dagon,” Ellyn said sharply. �śOh, but we are. For young, lusty alien women. It will be one of the finest hunts of our lives.” Male laughter and appreciative murmuring accompanied that. Already they felt hope. It had been a long time since Dagon had felt hope. Heated arguing about the best way to get the women broke out. Finally they decided to send out scouts. Once they had more information, they would act. � �śI’ve said it before, Ser. I don’t think women are going to be attracted to something like this.” He would have overruled the counsel’s decision if he’d had a better idea. They’d remained behind in the new Earth based command center after everyone else had left, arguing over details. There was still a lot of work to be done in preparing the site, but the workers were eager. Already letters of invitation had been sent out to selected marks. The women would begin arriving very soon. Nothing about the coming project made Dagon feel easy. Ser glanced up from his plans. �śI agree. Unfortunately, the elders have gotten involved. They looked at the information and decided the best way to screen women was to pose as a military-type academy offering incredible incentives. �ŚDreams come true’, as they put it. A woman wants to own a home, we offer to make it possible. She wants education, we promise it.” �śEmpty promises,” Dagon said with a frown. �śNo; they’ll just take place in a different manner and on a different world than they anticipate.” Dagon grinned. �śTrue. But why the pretense at being a military academy? What if only brawny, ugly women apply?” �śWe’ll screen them,” Ser said quickly, obviously disturbed by the idea himself. No one wanted an ugly wife. �śAnd the military ruse will give us a chance to give them medical examinations. We don’t want anyone with disease. A few days of calling you �Śsir’ will also train your woman to automatically look to you for authority.” �śYou hope,” Dagon muttered, arms crossed. He’d seen the attitude of some of these Earth females in the two months they’d been hunting. He was used to protecting women, treating them with consideration. These Earth women almost demanded a man take them in hand before they would give him an measure of respect. On the other hand, these American girls were also quite relaxed in their morals. Remembered temptation heated his blood. He was surprised at himself. One would think that he’d have jumped at the chance to reveal in the beds of the many women who’d offered themselves since he’d been here. Unfortunately, he found himself strangely reticent. He could kiss them, caress their soft and eager bodies, but always something would stop him long before the final act. Maybe it was disgust at himself, the woman’s easy virtue�Śwho knew? He only knew that once a woman started snaking her hands under his shirt, he had to disengage. Often to her loud protests and even curses. Most likely it was his religious training that was hard to break free of. It was easy to follow the credo of chastity outside of marriage when there were no women to sin with. A part of him had always looked askance at the rule, and he’d wondered how he’d feel if the opportunity to sin arose. Well, now he knew. Some virtuous piece of him had survived the years of vicious warring. He was set on having a woman of his own to claim and defend, and wanted to forget the hard won lessons of deceitful women and politics. That part of him was like a starry eyed, smooth-skinned choir boy, and would take more effort to smash than was worth it, considering that he was about to have the pick of their captives in a matter of weeks. He was a man. He could wait that long. At least he didn’t have to worry about pleasing a woman. That niggling worry had been completely burnt out. Now he just had to find one that wasn’t eager to share herself with any likely male who wandered by. Papers shuffled as Ser slid a folder out of the haphazard pile on his desk. He handed it to Dagon, an amused gleam in his eye. �śBy the way, we’ve finished our list of those in charge of physical training. Your name is on it. As program �Śdirector’ we decided it would be expected.” Tension gripped him as he looked at the list. �śThe only training I know is the hard kind, Syn. These women will not appreciate it. How will I find a wife when they will all hate me?” Unperturbed, Ser sent him a sly grin. �śYou’re clever. You’ll think of something. Besides, it will keep them occupied while we gather all the women. It will only be for a few days, but we don’t want to miss any of the women who are delayed.” They couldn’t afford to. Once the women started disappearing, the Earth authorities were bound to get suspicious. They expected nearly a thousand women to arrive�"an ambitious number. It would take a great deal of manpower to handle them, but the volunteers were more than eager to do so. If they could get two more groups of that size in, they would have enough women for the remnants of their population. Barely. The youth of the next generation might have to import their own wives in a few years, at least until the female babes of the Earth women grew up. Thanks to their science, they would be able to assure the sex of the children. They couldn’t afford not to be selective. Dagon closed his eyes at the nebulous image of the woman who would be his. Very soon, he would slake this endless hunger. Soon, the loneliness would end. The hope of future generations rested on him getting her pregnant as soon as possible. Anticipation made his blood race, his head light. He couldn’t wait to do his part. � � Chapter 1 � �śGirl, you need a new hobby.” Helvana Clue looked up from her microscope and blinked as her eyes adjusted. �śThis isn’t a hobby, Kelsa. It’s my job.” Her roommate splayed one hand on her workshop counter and peered at her microscope slide. �śHow can you sit and stare at bug guts all day? Look at this poor guy. He’s spread out and pinned down like some sort of sadistic sex experiment.” Her clipboard made a poor shield, but Helvana grabbed it and jotted down a few notes anyway. �śI study microbes, insects, and lower life forms,” she said in her best �Śyou are not going to get to me’ tone. �śBugs, girl. You study bugs.” She grimaced. �śDo you know how hard it is to fix you up with anyone decent with a hobby like yours? And don’t call it a job. You’ve yet to get a paycheck from it.” Annoyed, she tossed aside the clipboard. �śAs if I’m dying for a date with one of your weird friends. Thanks for the thought, Kelsa, but no thanks. That last guy had a pierced nipple.” �śHe showed you?” Kelsa asked with a naughty grin. Vana grimaced. �śUnfortunately. It blended in well with his bleeding skull tattoo.” �śYeah, but could he kiss or what?” �śWhy are you pestering me?” Vana asked, dodging the question. Of course she hadn’t kissed the guy, especially not after he’d wiggled his pierced tongue at her. Thank God they’d been on a double date. She’d hate to think what he’d have been like if they’d been alone. She braced her feet on the bottom of her stool and scowled at Kelsa. �śFor that matter, you usually knock before you invite yourself into my lab.” �śThat’s because I never know what might be running around. Remember that two foot centipede that chased me that time?” She shuddered. Even her short blond locks seemed to quiver. Helvana grinned. That little breeding experiment couldn’t have gone better. Chasing her hyper roomie around had been a perk. �śMillipede.” �śWhatever. This came for you today.” She took an envelope out of her backpack and handed it over. It was from the recruitment department of Dagon Academy, Science Division. Hands shaking, Helvana took a deep breath to calm herself. This was it. Her one chance at greatness. With luck, all her years of study in a much denigrated branch of science were about to be rewarded. She tore open the envelope, scanned the contents, and squealed. Alarmed, Kelsa straightened, ready for action. �śWhat is it?” �śYes! I did it!” She did a little victory dance and pumped her arm in the air. �śYes, yes, YES!” As if afraid she’d lost a few screws, Kelsa sent her an odd look and quickly snatched the letter away. Her expression turned skeptical. �śYou’re not seriously thinking of going.” Helvana shot an incredulous look at her for that stupid remark. �śIf you think I’m giving up a once in a lifetime chance to further my education while also paying it off, you’re sadly mistaken. All I have to do is get accepted and they pay off my loans. It’s like an army thing.” A pen flipped rapidly between Kelsa’s fingers as she cocked her head. �śI don’t know about those military types. They’re all a horny bunch. I say, �Śtrust them with your hide, but not your virtue’.” Vana’s mouth dropped open. �śMy what?” Kelsa’s slashed a hand through the air. �śYou never date. I’m your all-knowing roommate, remember? It’s my job to keep creeps away from you.” �śCreeps like your friends? Might I remind you of Eric the Irritating? King of the Arm Pit Noises?” Vana batted her eyes at her rapidly in a way that said she was really something. �śAnd you don’t have to worry. My virtue is perfectly safe. Besides, you’re just annoyed that you won’t be able to keep tabs on every little detail of my love life.” �śMaybe, but I still can’t picture you in army green. You hate to get up earlier than eight in the morning. How do you plan to stay awake when they get you up at five am to run?” �śI don’t see why you’re so worried�"it’s not like you’ll be the one running around in combat boots with a gun.” She was concentrating on the academic part of the school to avoid thinking about the physical stuff. It was true that she sucked at gym. Since she was determined to go, she chose to think positive. She could do anything if she put her mind to it. It wasn’t as if it would be for the rest of her life. � �śOh no, oh no, aw�Śnuts!” Helvana whimpered in frustration and leaned her throbbing head against the steering wheel. It would figure that the only spur of the moment trip she’d ever taken would end with her car dying on a deserted back road in the middle of nowhere. It was late, though the Alaskan midnight sun didn’t know it. The prospect of sleeping in her car made her reach for her recycled water bottle and dig a painkiller out of her purse. No phone, no money, no car. The phrase thrummed through her skull as if set to bass. She got out of the car and looked around. Kicked her tire for good measure. Not a 7-11 from horizon to horizon. What had possessed her to leave Anchorage? The sound of a motorcycle downshifting brought her out of her reverie. Stiff and wary, she stared at the black helmeted man who pulled up like some dark knight sent to rescue her. Or something worse. Where had he come from? �śTrouble?” I don’t know, are you? She bit her lip, wondering about his smoky, rough accent. She’d never heard anything like it. �śMy car broke down. You wouldn’t happen to have a cell phone, would you?” she asked hopefully. It would end the dilemma of whether or not she would have to accept a ride from a complete stranger...if he offered. He shook his head and removed his helmet. Helvana stared. Oh, he was trouble all right. From his short dark hair to his ice blue eyes, it was written all over his handsome face. It took just a touch of five o’clock shadow and�"was that an earring?�"to tilt him into the dangerous category. Spank me, a naughty part of her whispered. Shut up! Helvana hissed back. He could be a mass murderer for all we know. She stepped back as he got off the bike. The black leather of his jacket creaked. My, he was tall. And built. She swallowed. Although he wore a black leather jacket, she could tell by the fit of his jeans that the man worked out. And when he popped her hood and bent over�Ś. She looked away and searched for something to say. �śUm, do you think you can fix it?” He looked at her in disbelief. �śWho’s your mechanic?” He gestured to the guts of her car. �śThis looks like a kid threw it together out of scrap parts.” A cool fall breeze kicked up and she hugged herself. Irritated at his attitude and the situation, she kicked a rock. �śI bought it from a neighbor kid.” The kid had needed the money, and she’d liked the restored old vehicle. At the time it had been all she could afford. The hood slammed shut. �śWell, you can’t stay here.” He looked at her as if judging her caliber. �śAre you going to stay here or take a chance with me?” A tilt of his head indicated the bike. �śI�Ś” She let out a frustrated breath. It was either go with him or wait around for another stranger. �śOkay. Thank you,” she said reluctantly. After all, he was being helpful. �śLet me just get my back pack.” There was no point in grabbing her duffle bag, since it was loaded with more books and stuff than could ever fit on his bike, so she nabbed her pack with her essentials and locked her doors. �śHop on.” He made room for her on the seat as she gingerly placed a hand on his shoulder and threw a leg over. He handed her the helmet. �śStick your hands in my pockets if they get cold,” he told her, and started the engine. Helvana swallowed hard. Uh, no, she thought. She’d have to be mighty chilly to do such an intimate thing. It was hard enough to grasp his waist and not think about how close they were on the bike. Nothing like that had ever happened to her. Handsome men didn’t get close to her. Neither did anyone else. The helmet was too big. Worse, it smelled like his aftershave. The intoxicating scent of man and male teased her nose. Eyes closed, she inhaled the rich musk as the pavement whizzed by. She just hoped she didn’t make an idiot of herself before the night was done. � Dagon couldn’t believe the woman. She drove out of the city with a light jacket in a rickety car, then told a total stranger that she had nobody near to help her. Had survival instincts been totally bred out of Earth women, or was she just that flustered? Lucky for her, he’d been returning from a scouting mission and had seen her car, recognized her from her dossier. He would have helped any woman, and definitely one slatted to become a warrior’s wife. Not his wife, though. He’d hope for one with more survival instincts. She was pretty. All of the applicants were attractive, or could be with a little help. Sleek brown hair waved down her back, stopping about midway. Grey-green eyes bright with interest had looked him over warily. Very well, perhaps she wasn’t unaware of the danger, just optimistic that he would help and not harm her. He hadn’t missed the way she’d stared. The look had affected him, made him feel hopeful that he could attract a wife, though that could change when he washed the makeup off his scar. It had also roused in him the hunger that was never far below the surface. She looked too good in jeans and her clingy knit top. He shook his head sharply and gunned the throttle, making her hold tighter. Maybe the wind would wash away this feeling. The hunger was what made the men of his generation so wild in battle. They’d had no women, no hope of finding a mate in their lifetimes. The hunger had grown, made them reckless, impossibly dangerous in combat. With no women to distract him, Dagon had spent many hours honing his fighting skills, hardening his body. Only the pain of constant, furious work had kept the despair at bay. The need. And now he had a living, breathing woman holding him in her arms�Ś. The hunger stirred. � It only took half an hour to reach a tiny village with a bar and a hotel. Since everything else was closed, he parked the bike and led her into the bar. A few customers glanced their way as they entered the dim joint, then went back to their beer and conversations. The smell of sizzling steaks made his stomach rumble with the promise of dinner. He fervently hoped the grill was still open as he escorted her past the pool tables to the pay phone. She dialed while he made use of the restroom. She smiled a little when he came out. �śI called the academy and told them I’d be a little late. They sent a tow truck to get my car, and someone to pick me up, but he won’t be here until early the next morning.” She glanced around the bar and tried not to look chagrined. �śThe academy?” he asked, pretending he didn’t know who she was and what she was up to. �śThat wouldn’t be the Dagon Academy, would it?” She blinked. �śYou’ve heard of it?” With a wicked grin, he took her hand and kissed it. �śDagon T’Siantal. No relation to the founder,” he lied. �śI’m one of the instructors there. I’d be happy to escort you up.” A little breathless, she drew her hand back. It was definitely not a good idea to spend too much time in this guy’s company. She was sure to trip over her tongue and embarrass herself. �śEr, as I said, they’re sending someone, but thank you.” A devilish light still twinkled in his eyes when he looked at her. �śI’ll keep an eye on you until he gets here.” A little wary, she stared at him. �śWill you?” He blinked at her slowly, like a cat. There was something about that look. More than a little unsettled by the evening’s events, she turned her back on him, moved to the bar and studied the billboard menu. No way she could order a steak. She had just enough money to pay for a glass of water. Maybe. Dagon claimed the stool next to her. �śOrder whatever you like,” he said. �śMy treat.” �śI really shouldn’t,�ś she started to protest, chagrined. She’d have felt even worse if he’d known just how little money she had. It had been one reason she’d leapt at the chance the academy offered. She’d worked hard in collage, held two jobs so she wouldn’t have a loan to repay. Until the day she’d collapsed at her night job with a bad case of pneumonia and exhaustion, she’d been doing fine. Unfortunately, that incident had seriously drained her reserves, both of time and health. She’d been about two days from being evicted when the academy had accepted her. When she hesitated, he flashed the waitress a smile and said, �śHi. She’d like the steak, potato and slaw, please. The same for me.” He tossed some bills on the counter. �śAnything for you, sugar,” the waitress said, giving him the once-over. Her hips wiggled as she walked away. Vana rolled her eyes at the waitress’s antics, but said, �śThank you,” to Dagon. Accepting his generosity made her feel shy, so she lowered her eyes, traced the grain in bar to avoid his gaze. Dagon knew every detail of her recent history, for they’d researched the �śapplicants” carefully. He could guess what emotions kept her eyes nailed to the bar. It displeased him that a woman could be left alone to fend for herself the way she had been. With no family or friends who would help, she’d been forced to care for herself since the death of her mother at seventeen. The father had left a long time before that. The knowledge burned him. She�"and the others like her�"would be much better off with the men of his world. He finished eating first and left to speak to the barkeeper about a room. He was frowning when he returned. �śThey’ve only got one, and the hotel is full up. I checked.” Vana narrowed her eyes at him. The waitress perked up. �śIf that’s a problem I know of a free bed.” She looked straight at Dagon as she purred it, completely ignoring Vana. If she’d bent over the bar any farther, she might have fallen out of her low-cut shirt. Her red nails traced a lazy, suggestive circle on the bar. �śI don’t mind,” Vana said sardonically. No one was listening to her. A single, hard glance from Dagon sent the woman scurrying off. �śI’ll sleep outside the door,” he said to Vana. His look brooked no argument. At once she felt guilty, but not guilty enough to take a chance on letting him in her room�"that was, if she had been about to accept one. Unfortunately�Ś. �śI can’t afford a room tonight. I’d expected to be at the Academy already.” �śThe bar closes at one am,” he said with implacable logic. �śNothing else is open tonight, which would leave you wandering around in the cold until dawn. Do you really think I’m going to allow you to do that?” She’d been too tired to consider those obstacles, ought to have been grateful for his thoughtfulness. Instead he got a grumpy nod of acknowledgement. Too weary to ponder it further, she said, �śFine,” and followed him up the rickety stairs. The room wasn’t much to see. It had a bed, tiny bathroom and a battered dresser. One streaked window looked out at the motel sign. Vana eyed the full size bed and the floor doubtfully. There was barely room to swing the door open. If she had to use the bathroom in the middle of the night she’d step on him. It was just as well he was sleeping outside. The waitress cleared her throat and handed a bundle of worn quilts and a lumpy pillow to Dagon. She left without making eye contact. �śYou made a friend,” Vana observed as she tossed her pack on the bed. He shrugged. �śI’m not likely to desire a woman that�Śblatant. I prefer a woman who beds only one man�"me.” He tossed the blankets on the floor, making a makeshift mattress. A hot flush made her duck her head as she sat on the bed. The man was blunt. And disciplined. There weren’t many guys she knew who’d turn down easy sex in this day and age. She eyed him discretely as she kicked off her shoes. A discriminating stranger who turned down a warm bed to sleep outside her door. There was something gallant about that, and very sexy, in an old fashioned kind of way. How many guys would do something like that? She tossed her jacket over the foot of the bed and crawled under the covers. It was chilly in there. At least she wasn’t the one on the floor. Guilt made her wince. But what could she do? She wasn’t about to invite him into the bed. She just hoped he wasn’t going to hold it against her when she had to take his class. � Vana woke up from a dream involving a pair of ice blue eyes and knowing male hands. It faded as her eyes opened, leaving her unsure of the details but uncomfortably curious about their cause. �śThe cause” leaned against the doorframe, watching her wake. �śDo you always sleep this hard?” he asked. He didn’t seem to mind. Those sensual blue eyes of his moved over her with warm appraisal. Finger combing her hair out of the way, knowing she must look a mess, she grumbled, �śUsually. I hate mornings.” White teeth flashed in a bright smile. �śYou need a reason to get up, then. If I buy you breakfast, will it cheer you?” �śOnly if it’s a loan. I owe you too much already.” There went that smile again. The man really was enjoying himself, though how he managed at this early hour was beyond her. As she passed through the doorway, she was reminded where he’d spent the night. Now that she had some sleep behind her, the reason why was obvious, and she was impressed by his integrity. Not that she would have given him a chance to do otherwise, of course. He was married. Probably had several kids. She glanced at him and unconsciously sighed. �śYour wife would be thrilled to know what a nice guy you are.” His brows drew together in puzzlement. �śI’m not married.” He wasn’t? Suddenly she felt perkier. �śOh. I just thought�Ś” Embarrassed, she let the words trail off. She didn’t want him to feel as if his chivalry was in question. As if he could read her mind, he snorted in amusement. �śYou’re too used to Earth men. Earthy-men, that is,” he hastily corrected himself, glancing at her. �śGrown-up boys with no discipline, no morals. You’ll appreciate the difference at the academy.” She hoped she would. Already she was nervous. Still, if Dagon were a sample of the kind of men she would meet�Śmaybe sending in that application was one of the best ideas of her life. � *** As the tow truck pulled up at the academy, Vana grabbed her bag. Halfway out the truck’s door, she froze. Dagon’s motorcycle had hardly rolled to a stop when a man dressed in a black uniform came running out. Dagon pulled off his helmet, listening intently to the man’s words. Although she couldn’t understand the language the man spoke, his body language told her that whatever he had to say was urgent. Dagon confirmed it when he swung one long leg over his bike and moved swiftly to her side. �śHurry,” he said, taking her bag. He caught her hand and helped her leap down from the jacked up truck, slamming the door behind her. Without explanation, he towed her off at a lope. �śWhat’s wrong?” she huffed, barely able to keep up. �śWe have a problem,” was all he would say as he ran toward the academy. The building itself was a handsome brick structure with two wings off each side. At another time she would have enjoyed studying the lawn and gardens surrounding it. Just then it was all she could do to keep from tripping as they joined the stream of people rushing up the stairs. Another car careened around the corner and screeched to a stop, spraying gravel. A man leapt out, running around the other side of the car to hurry the female passenger. �śHurry up, Ser! You’re going to be a permanent resident!” someone yelled. One quick peek at that scene was all Vana got before she stumbled on the stairs. �śCareful!” Dagon growled, grabbing her to prevent a fall. �śSorry.” They dashed into the hall, past a series of rooms made hard to see by the press of bodies working toward a set of double doors. The crowd was so close she couldn’t see what lay beyond them, but she felt the chill as they approached, an odd contrast to the body heat around her. And then she was through. A white light blinded her, and she knew no more. � Dagon swore as he caught the woman and lowered her to the frozen ground. They were supposed to have transported directly to the compound. This light forest with the frosted ground and naked trees was definitely not their destination. Tension gripped him, even after he recognized the familiar landmarks of the Banderols Highway, a mere two miles shy of their destination. It was the perfect spot for an ambush. �śShields up! Battle positions.” Dagon commanded. �śWe got a message of sabotage, so we rushed everyone out. A group of enemy soldiers broke into the lab and made it to the controls of the Istalgilese Tunnel before they were stopped. They wouldn’t have dared alter our arrival point by much, not if it was the women they were after.” With a touch of a button, the men shed the electronic illusion of human soldiers and transformed into the fearsome vision of fully armed, combat ready Beast warriors. The glowing eyes of their fantastical beast-headed helmets made them look alien and dangerous. Scarier still were the sleek black rifles and deadly handguns. They would need them, for their enemy was every bit as dangerous as they were. He hadn’t been surprised when he’d pulled up to the �Śacademy’ and found the place in a state of controlled chaos. The emergency evacuation drills had prepared the men for trouble, and they’d been hustling the women along at a fast clip. Whatever had gone wrong at home would be dealt with immediately. They couldn’t afford to have screw-ups like this happen, not with their precious breeders in hand. �śAny sign of the Dark Ones?” he called to his scouts, who were busy scanning the area with their portable biosensors. Vana heard the last, though the meaning was dulled in her mind. Everything was fuzzy, and far too bright, like sun off snow. Her body felt leaden, like a mattress left out in the rain and reluctantly dragged back in. Had she hit her head? Where was Dagon? � �śWhat about the women?” someone said. �śThe displacement will wear off soon. They’re better off tranquilized�"at least they’ll remain calm.” Calm? Why did she need to remain calm? Was there a gas leak or something? Panic cleared her head. Suddenly the visual haze burned off. Vana sucked in a breath as the armored warriors around her came into view. A clear blue dome surrounded their group. And outside it�" The ground shook as a massive, clawed creature like a saber tooth, but far too big, leapt in front of the shield. It snarled, every muscle poised to jump. A helmet of worked metal protected its head, and a steel breastplate guarded its massive chest. A warrior with a deadly looking weapon rode on its back. Vana made it into a crouch, but that was all her shaky body would do. She was trying to figure out which way to run when a black dragon�"a dragon!�"landed in front of the shield. It flamed and screamed, shaking its wings in fury. It, too, was armored, but what shocked her more was the figure who dismounted and strode to the shield. �śGive up the women or die,” he demanded, as more riders arrived to back up his threat. His armor was black, and the close-fitting helmet hid his face, making him even more frightening. �śWhen the sun freezes over, Nikon! Find your own women,” the man who was apparently the leader called back. His animal headed helmet gleamed cold silver in the murky light. Close fitting body armor protected his chest, arms and legs. Even Mr. Rodgers would look imposing in that get up. Vana heartily agreed with his sentiments, until it dawned on her that she didn’t know anything more about these men than she did the other. She glanced at the dragon and her mouth went dry. On the other hand, at least the men on her side of the bubble didn’t have overgrown pets. Nikon raised his hand. Every man there cocked his guns at the group within the bubble. The dragon drooled flame. �śIs that your final word, Dagon?” Dagon? Shocked, Vana glanced at the beast-headed leader. It couldn’t be! Oh, man. She’d known that she had terrible taste in men, but this! How could she have misjudged him so badly? Chivalry, indeed, she thought with disgust. The jerk had been planning this all along! Dagon cocked his own gun. �śYou never did know when to run, boy.” Vana hadn’t survived twenty-five years alone in the big bad world for nothing. With lightning deduction�"thank God her brain was working faster than her body�"she grabbed a sidearm out of the nearest man’s holster, then swiftly wrapped her arm around the neck of a petite blond and hauled her to her feet. Before anyone could react, she had the gun pressed to the girl’s temple. �śPlay along,” Vana hissed in her ear. �śI’m going to try to get us out of here.” Louder, she called, �śFreeze! Nobody move or I’ll blow her brains out, I swear!” It was a risky move. Had she stopped to think about it she would have chickened out. She was used to thinking exhaustively about what flavor of ice cream to buy at the store, for pity’s sake! For someone who viewed trying Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey as a wild night out, this was crazy indeed. But for once in her life, action had taken the place of careful reasoning. Now she had to pray that her acting skills had peaked along with her bravado. Warriors on both side of the shield stared at her in horror. �śDon’t do it, woman,” Dagon warned. She blew the girl’s hair out of her face, trying to watch all sides at once as she spun in a circle, dragging the poor girl with her. �śBack off! I will blow her head off, man, I swear!” she cried in her best imitation of a jacked up bank robber. A circle cleared around them, with warriors forming a wall between the remaining women and Vana to protect them from wild shots. Vana thought fast. �śYou,” she nodded at the man whose gun she held. �śCome here. That’s far enough,” she warned, holding the muzzle firmly to her captive’s head. In a low voice, she told him, �śI don’t know what’s going on, but I’m smart enough to figure out that we do not want is to get shot in a war between you guys.” She jerked her head at the men outside the shield. Adrenaline made her shake. The girl held very still. Vana said, �śPretend that whatever knocked us out when you brought us here made us crazy, or brain damaged, or whatever. Make those guys not want us, because none of these women deserve to get hurt.” And hurt they would be if these guys started shooting. The fear in her gut told her so. The warrior stared at her for a moment, his metallic head gleaming. Then he backed off and started an argument with Dagon. Their words grew louder and more heated, until finally he shouted at Dagon, �śWe were warned that this would happen. I told you that nobody was desperate enough to bed a bunch of crazy women! Give them to Nikon. What good are they? They’ll pass on their madness to their children.” Nikon glanced sharply at Vana. Grumbling started among his men. To egg him on, she raved, �śWhat are you talking about? I’m not crazy!” she fired a shot into the air to prove her point.” Instantly the warriors leveled their guns at her. The blond screamed and grabbed her head, apparently sure she was dead. Vana gulped. Hoo, boy! She was toast. Maybe she was too good an actor�Śeither that or she’d watched too much garbage on TV. Vana grabbed the back of her captive’s hair, trying not to be too rough. �śRelax! Play along,” she whispered. Though the girl probably thought she was nuts, she didn’t fight. That was good, because the sight of all those rifles pointed at Vana made her light-headed. She’d never pulled a stunt like this in her life! What had possessed her to act like a Wild West gunslinger? �śYou see?” the warrior shouted. He waved his gauntleted hand at the other women, most of whom still looked drugged and befuddled. �śShe’s crazy and the minds have gone on the rest of them. Give them to Nikon. He deserves a crazy mate,” he sneered. Without another word, Nikon turned and mounted his dragon. With a roar, it leapt into the air and winged away. As one, his warriors rode off. Whatever appeal the women might have had seemed to have disappeared. The instant they were out of sight, the girl pulled away from Vana and slapped away the hand with the gun. �śWhat did you think you were doing? You could have killed me!” �śThey left, didn’t they?” The words were pure reflex. Shock was setting in. She was half-surprised the blond had the energy left to fight. �śYou pulled my hair!” the blond shouted, outraged, and by the look in her eyes, terrified of what was happening. The warrior broke into their conversation by snatching his gun. �śYou know each other?” he growled, seemingly uncertain of whether he ought to tackle Vana or not. He grasped her arm just in case. �śNo,” the girl said, eyeing him with wide, wild eyes. �śBind that one,” Dagon snapped, pointing at Vana. �śI want no more trouble from her until we reach the citadel.” Before she could protest, the warrior who held her arm produced a pair of cuffs and secured her hands in front of her. Without a word, he took her arm and started marching with the rest of warriors, herding the women along with them. The blue shield moved with them as they walked, though Vana couldn’t detect the source. It was easy enough to see the alien shape of the naked trees. Wind bent the tops and snatched the few remaining leaves, though the temperature inside the shield remained tolerable, as if it held in their body heat. Dagon didn’t look at her again. She resented that. Not only was she scared, but it was his fault she was here. If he’d really been a nice guy, he’d have�Ś. What? Reassured her? Her inner voice demanded. That was stupid. He’d as much as said they’d been captured and lied to so these men could have sex with them. Did she expect him to say that it wouldn’t happen? That she was an exception? Grow up, that tough side of her demanded. You’re nothing but a piece of meat to him. You’re better off using your time to plan an escape. She looked around and shivered at the alien landscape. She didn’t even know how they’d gotten there. How would she ever get back home? They’d walked about two miles before she saw a glowing blue city in the distance. The walls of the city were laid out in a ring, and the whole thing shimmered with what she suspected was another shield. As they got closer, she discovered that the walls were truly massive and completely smooth, like metal. Those inside must have seen them coming, because the walls opened up and men on silver hover sleds with animal head cowlings poured out. A large transport accompanied them. �śAbout time,” Dagon snapped at the warrior who reached them first. �śI’ve been trying to raise you on the communicator for an hour.” �śYou must have been jammed. We received no transmissions,” the man answered. The transport stopped in front of them, and the tired, frightened women were loaded inside and seated under guard. The beast who’d escorted her reached for her cuffs. �śWhat? You don’t think I’ll try to hijack the ship?” Vana asked sarcastically. He paused, stared at her�"and left them on. She shot him a look of disgust and let herself be herded onto the transport. They placed her alone on a bench seat, presumably so she couldn’t cause more trouble. More nervous than she cared to admit, she turned to stare out the transport window. Fear skipped along her veins, making her shiver as they entered the city gates. Spires and domes passed by, reminding her just how far from home they were. God, I want this to be a dream, she prayed, but this is far too real. � � Chapter 2 � �śYou can’t leave her chained forever,” Dagon’s friend Ser said quietly, using the private link built inside their helmets to speak to Dagon alone. His expression was hidden behind his helmet, but Dagon knew that chiding tone well. Dagon sent him a dark look, also hidden behind his gleaming helmet. Their generation had grown so accustomed to battle and surprise attacks that they felt naked without their armor. No one willingly removed it in public. �śI hadn’t intended to. We’ll reach the Bride House soon. I will free her when we offload the others.” The Bride House was heavily guarded and in the center of the city. There would be plenty of men on hand to make her behave. He wouldn’t have thought she’d turn into such a cunning ball of fire. Everything about her had screamed �Śintrovert’ and �Śdesperate hope’. Or maybe he’d mistaken her shyness for a lack of courage. Her swift metamorphosis had been a nasty shock. Were all Earth women like that? He sent a quick look around, eyeing the captives for suspicious behavior. Though Ser had told him the woman’s plan to end the standoff, he could hardly credit it. For all he knew, she’d planned to use her hostage to affect her own escape. Maybe she had lost her nerve at the end and given it up as hopeless. Maybe not. Whichever it was, he planned to keep a sharp eye on her until she was married off. They didn’t need a repeat of that morning’s performance. Ser’s helmet was turned toward the blond woman Vana had held captive. �śThey are very different from our women.” �śWomen are women,” Dagon said dismissively. �śI think not. I had time to talk with the gold haired one, Jen, when I transported her to the �Śacademy’.” He paused. Taking with a woman was a rare thing. It was obvious from Ser’s tone that he’d found it quite an experience. �śShe has a keen sense of humor, and she kept looking at me when she thought I wouldn’t notice.” He sounded smug. Amused, Dagon grinned. Ser had always been a romantic. �śBe careful. If she’s anything like her friend, you could have a firebrand on your hands.” Ser remained silent, probably thinking that truth over. The spiraled towers of the Bride House came into view, and the transport slowed down as the shields were lowered to let them through. Nothing was being left to chance with the precious cargo. The �Śprecious cargo’ gave her captor a dirty look as he removed her cuffs. Unease prickled her skin as he remained beside her on the way down the ramp. Twin women carved of stone, implausibly tall, held the entrance door’s capstone above their heads. A whisper of carved silk swathed their bodies, doing very little to disguise their nipples. She could actually see the dip of their belly buttons. Of course, Vana’s sudden fascination with art was more a way of dealing with her growing fear than a study of alien sculpture. Her breathing became harsher the deeper they moved into the building. As if sensing the fear radiating from her, the warrior next to her looked at her. His helmet slid back into the collar of his body armor, leaving his face exposed. �śDagon!” She hadn’t realized he’s switched places with the other man. They all looked alike in their armor. Even more disturbing was the long, silver scar on his cheek. Perfectly smooth and covering most of the left side of his face, it hadn’t been there before. Though it looked more like paint than healed skin, somehow she knew it wasn’t cosmetic. At some time, someone had hurt him badly. She shivered. He regarded her through lowered lids. �śNo man here is going to harm you, adajah . You are far too precious to my people to abuse.” His eyes moved to the triple file of woman moving across the sunlit, pink marble floor, silently including them in his statement. Massive white marble columns carved with twining vines and flowers soared to the arched ceiling. Skylights let in light and warmth, providing the perfect environment for the brightly plumed, long tailed birds that flitted about overhead. Potted plants perfumed the air with their delicate blossoms. Had she not been a virtual prisoner, Vana would have appreciated the place more. They were escorted into a large, circular room strewn with carved benches upholstered in geometric tapestry. The men waited until the women were seated, then ranged themselves around the perimeter of the room. Dagon stood on a dais before the long windows. �śMy name is Dagon,” he said. His words didn’t quite match the moving of his lips. For the first time she realized that she’d always heard a faint, almost whispered echo whenever he spoke. She’d put it down to his accent, but now she wondered�Ś. �śWe are using translators to communicate, as our languages are very different. Our needs, however, are much like that of your Earth men.” The women rustled with a ripple of fear. Vana tensed. �śWe need wives,” Dagon went on, his ice blue eyes taking in their action, but revealing none of his thoughts. �śYou were chosen because you have no families, no one who will miss you. We also have no families. Our women are unable to produce female offspring, a result of an engineered virus wrought by our enemies, the Dark Ones.” His eyes glittered with the first glimpse of emotion�"hatred. �śYou will be given everything you need during your adjustment phase. Our men will court you, selecting wives for themselves. You will have some say in the matter, but be aware�"you will chose a man.” While the women still reeled with shock, he gestured. Two elder women came forward and joined him on the platform. �śThis is Ellyn and Adibi, two of our few surviving women. They will act as your counselors and teachers. That is all.” With that abrupt statement, he and all the men filed out of the room. The moment he was gone, a buzz of frantic whispers began. Ellyn stared after his retreating back. �śI see we will have to work on his reassuring skills,” she said drolly. Her pale eyes moved over the crowd of frightened women. By the light streaks in her black locks, she must have been on the far end of forty, or perhaps a well-preserved early fifty. �śYou see what happens when a generation of men is raised without a woman’s gentle hand. Our words carry great weight, but there have not been enough of us to soften their hearts. You have the power to change this.” �śNo one is going to harm you,” Adibi, the smaller of the two women, said quickly. She was dressed in a gown of muted colors, unlike Ellyn’s bright lavender and pink robes. �śWe are all hoping for happy matches, and Ellyn and I have been chosen to be your counselors in this matter. Both of us enjoy harmonious marriages, and hope to guide you into making good choices. After all, your match is to be for life.” She beamed. Vana scowled, not in the least pleased. Happily married to an abrupt man like Dagon? Ha! Then she caught sight of a huddled girl who couldn’t have been more than sixteen. A quick glance around showed more like her. Her blood boiled. �śAre you so desperate that you have to marry off children?” she snapped at Ellyn, indicating the girl with a jerk of her head. �śWhere we come from, that’s not legal.” Ellyn sighed as if put upon. �śOur customs are different here. We most certainly match up girls of her age. She is physically mature, and even in your culture young women of her age are known to take lovers. �śBesides, it is very difficult to find women in your �śUnited States” who have not known men.” Her mouth tightened a fraction. �śWe do not approve of promiscuous intercourse here.” A dreadful suspicion bloomed in Vana’s mind. �śHow would you know who has and hasn’t�Ś” she trailed off, too nervous to outright say it. With a kind smile, Ellyn said, �śOur men are very resourceful. I’m told they tracked down each woman and observed her, doing remote medical scans to check for health and�Śother things. You would not be here if you were not pure, believe me.” Face burning, Vana looked away. That was not the sort of information she wanted to be public knowledge. �śNow, let me show you to your sleeping places and help you get settled. We’ll have a meal soon, and then you’ll have a chance to get to know your future husbands.” Oh, joy, Vana thought grimly. Their rooms were actually curtained and screened off sections of the larger chamber. The gel-filled beds were thermostatically controlled, allowing the sleeper to adjust the temperature and density for their comfort. Each woman was given grooming supplies and urged to choose from a colorful array of saris, sarongs and alluring tops. Vana balked. No way did she want to dress up like some virginal, sacrificial harem girl. �śI’m quite comfortable in my own clothes, thank you,” she said firmly to Ellyn. At least her jeans and sweater hid her belly button, which was more than she could say for most of the clothes they were offered. The older woman considered her calmly. �śWhat will you do when your clothes become ragged and worn? You have only the one set. Besides, your rebellion would gain Dagon’s notice. He might feel the need to compel your obedience�"personally.” The subtle threat did its dirty work. With a glower, Vana chose some clothes and retreated to her �śroom” to change. The wrap-around skirt was gorgeous. Black silk with gold fringe hugged her legs from waist to ankle in loving detail, allowing just a glimpse of sandal-clad feet. Also of black silk, the sleeveless halter-top with hidden support was attached to a golden embroidered, choker-like collar. The top ended inches above her skirt, allowing for an enticing glimpse of skin. She didn’t like how exposed it made her feel. She liked it even less when she entered the dinner hall and saw how the men looked at the women. Suddenly she felt like filet mignon at an all-you-can-eat buffet. There were many tables scattered throughout the huge banquet room, so she was surprised when Ellyn personally escorted her to Dagon’s table. His enquiring look as she climbed the dais told her that it had not been at his request. �śI think you should keep a close eye on this one,” Ellyn said firmly, seating her in the empty place on Dagon’s right. Throughout the hall women were being paired with men. �śI do not trust her not to escape during the banquet and get captured by Nikon. She’s just the sort he would fancy.” Vana sent her a look. If only she knew. Dagon’s eyes moved leisurely over Vana’s long, loose hair and subtle makeup�"Ellyn had insisted on cosmetics, and had done Vana’s herself�"then dropped briefly to take in the rest of her. With a gleam in his eye, he murmured, �śI can think of more difficult hardships.” Eyes narrowed, Vana looked away, over the heads of those at Dagon’s table. �śSo you are Dagon’s warrior woman,” the handsome, dark-haired man seated across from her drawled. �śMy name is Ser. It’s a delight to meet you, Vana.” Not trusting herself to say anything civil, Vana acknowledged him with a curt nod. The blond head at his side caught her eye, making her eyes widen. Now there was someone she needed to speak to. �śI’m sorry if I scared you earlier,” she said quietly to the petite woman. �śI didn’t want us to get hurt in a war between�Śthem,” she concluded, her voice dropping an angry octave on the last word. With a stiff nod of her own, the woman showed her agreement. �śMy name is Jennifer�"Jen.” That seemed to be all she had to say. The high table was served. Reluctantly, Vana chose from the array of dishes being passed around, then stared at her plate. The four basic food groups, in an unfamiliar but tantalizingly scented array, stared back at her. It looked good. Her mouth watered. � �śIs there a problem?” Dagon inquired. �śI’m trying to decide if this is going to agree with me. I’ve never had alien food before.” A half smile curved his lips as he watched her working up the nerve to try a bite. Swallowing hard, she speared a quail sized stuffed egg with what looked like a long, skinny hair pick and nibbled a cautious bite. It was�Śodd. Rather reminded her of pickled herring and egg yolk. Still hungry, she scraped the thing off her pick and stabbed a cube of green vegetable. Bewildered, she moved the pick away and examined the nibbled cube as she chewed. It tasted like honey-mustard potatoes, heavy on the mustard. Her eyes watered. A sip of the water helped, fortifying her for the rest of the dinner. Fortunately, she did find some items she liked. The meats were all very good, tender and perfectly spiced. Most of the vegetables were exceptional, as well as the grain dishes and breads. The only sticky point came during dessert. The servers cleared away the remains of the meal, then brought out platters of enticing looking layered desserts, confections and sweets. A plate was placed between each pair of dinners. �śIt is customary for the man and woman to feed each other,” Dagon said with a faintly challenging smile. Vana eyed the plate, then him. �śAnd it’s grossly rude not to at least try the desserts,” he added in warning. �śOur chefs are temperamental. They’ve been known to poison those who scorn their cooking.” She raised a skeptical brow, but reluctantly allowed him to feed her a bite of a brown, creamy dessert. Her eyes widened in surprise. It was�Śmmm! As rich as cream, complex as roast hazelnut and as addictive as chocolate. Her eyes drooped shut, and she actually purred. Fascinated, Dagon watched her intently. Chills broke out on his skin as she moaned low in her throat. Her tongue darted out to lick her lips, and suddenly the room ran short of air. Glazed eyes looked at him in apparent ecstasy. �śWhat�Śis this?” she whispered. �śAdoc. It’s made from a local nut.” His voice came out a hoarse scratch. Her eyes dipped to the dessert and he hastily offered her another bite. �śOoo,” she moaned. Sweat broke out all over his body. Dagon quickly handed her the tiny stone dish and the ivory dessertspoon, unable to take more without disgracing himself. A quick glance showed similar scenes being enacted all over the room. Apparently adoc was heady stuff for Earth women. Ser leaned close. Never taking his eyes off of Jen, he murmured, �śI’d like to paint myself with that stuff and lock myself in a room with her.” A vision of himself and a far different woman flashed before Dagon’s eyes and his temperature went up a hundred degrees. �śSer!” he growled. Ser laughed without mirth, understanding the frustration in Dagon’s voice. The liquor drenched, layered wafer and fruit tortes were nearly as dangerous, the candies only slightly less so. Vana had finished the desserts before Dagon realized he hadn’t had any, and that he didn’t care. Just watching her had been dessert enough. In fact, his sweet tooth was aching. No matter how luscious the desserts had been, they still weren’t enough to completely distract Vana from her situation. While eating, she’d cataloged the room around her, sifting through the visual impressions to get a better grasp of what kind of place it was. The servers, she noted, were mostly youths between the ages of eight and twelve. Some of the older ones had grown quite tall for their age�"these guys were not small men�"but the boyishness had not faded from their faces. Besides, they looked at her a little differently than the older men, with a mixture of curiosity and wistfulness. It unnerved her enough to ask Dagon, �śSo where are all your women? Surely you have some left.” �śVery few.” He hesitated. �śThose who are left�Śdid not care to attend the banquet.” Vana considered his guarded expression. �śThey don’t like us being here.” He seemed to choose his words carefully. �śYou are an unwelcome reminder of what they perceive as their failings. They can not have daughters�"you will have nothing but.” Her eyes widened. �śWhat!” �śWe will ensure that you have nothing but daughters,” he repeated earnestly, leaning forward a little as if trying to reassure her. �śWe have the science to do this.” His gall astounded her. First he stole women, informed them that they would chose husbands, then refused to allow them a say in the child’s sex? �śAnd what if I want to have a boy? Did it ever occur to you that we might want to have sons?” Silence descended over the table at her forceful question. Dagon looked as if he couldn’t believe his ears. �śBut we need daughters. Many of them. More men would only complicate our situation.” She stood up, breathing hard. He rose, too. Angry enough to ignore the way he dwarfed her, she said in a low, biting tone that nonetheless carried, �śI have been kidnapped. Informed that I will choose a husband. And now you have the gall to stand there and tell me that I can’t even chose the sex of my own child?” her voice rose to a shout. �śIf I want a son, I will have a son. But you don’t have to worry, Dagon, because it definitely won’t be yours.” She turned on her heel and walked out, leaving him speechless behind her. She was still boiling when she slammed the door of the woman’s chamber behind her, leaving her escorts outside. Unbearable to be guarded even inside this place. Where did they think she would go? She kicked a pillow, sending it flying. Then she grabbed it and used it to whack a stone column, beating out her fear and rage. It was a large pillow, and held out longer than her short spurt of fury. Still angry, but not destructively so, she paced the room, looking for a way out. Other than a locked set of double doors, there were none. Somehow, someway, she had to get out. � The banquet lost some of its triumph for Dagon after Vana stalked out. Her angry words made him consider some of the difficulties he faced in integrating the women into his culture. It could be done and would be. It was unfortunate that women like her would make the task so much more difficult on themselves. He considered what he might be feeling in her situation. Since he could do little about the darker emotions, he settled on loss of direction as something to focus on. She would be without a purpose, would need something to keep her active mind busy. And he definitely wanted that one occupied. She may even have given him the key to structuring the men and woman’s time together. Satisfied with his decisions, he leaned back, considering the alien woman. Already they displayed less fear, which was good. He would have to see which men were qualified to be instructors. If it meant spending time around the women, he suspected that there would be a large number of volunteers eager to help. His smile returned, and he resolved to put Vana from his mind. After all, thanks to the recent hunt, there were many more women to choose from. � Vana submitted to the physical the next morning because she had no choice. Besides, the medic performed some very painless and long overdue dental work. Considering how much she’d been dreading having her teeth capped, it was a relief to have him coat her teeth with something guaranteed not to chip or wear. They had made her go first, possibly on the conclusion that it would be easier to do the most difficult woman at the start. Her genetic workup was done and they took a tiny amount of blood. �śI’ll have your specific supplements finished by tomorrow,” the medic informed her, his attention on an e-reader. He held up a tiny pellet for her examination. �śThis is birth control. It’s activated by your personal cycle, and goes into effect during that time. It’s programmed to ensure that you do not conceive male children.” He popped it into a handheld device. �śNo!” she shouted as he reached toward her, and jumped off the table. The guards stirred warily. The medic regarded her with unruffled calm. �śIt’s painless, has no side effects, and is required.” When she didn’t move, he said, �śYou will be restrained if necessary.” Her eyes narrowed. �śYou might lose some body parts if you try.” Ellyn came up beside her, sympathy in her eyes. The examination was taking place in the common area, and she�Śd been on hand to help. �śVery well. Walk with me and I will try to change your mind.” Vana eyed her suspiciously, but submitted to Ellyn linking their arms as they strolled through the woman’s room and down a few corridors. The sound of rhythmic shouts and the clash of metal grew louder until they stood on a balcony over a huge inner courtyard. Boys aged five to eighteen trained in blocks, separated by age. All wore black, loose pants and nothing else. Some of the older blocks wore sashes of varying colors. All of the instructors wore red sashes. Dagon was there, teaching a class of five thru seven year olds. He walked among the boys, patiently correcting their stances and moves. There must have been several hundred males there, and not a woman in sight. Expressionless, Ellyn watched the group in silence for a moment before saying, �śThis is our next generation.” Foreboding knocked on Vana’s heart. �śWere do the women train?” Ellyn’s smile didn’t reach her eyes. �śOur women are never permitted such a thing, even if they desired it. There are far too few of us, and we are watched over carefully to ensure that no harm comes to us. Our presence here is a true indication of the ratio of male to female in our race.” Horror made Vana’s mouth open. �śA true�Śyou’re serious!” �śDeadly.” Ellyn looked at the men again. �śBut�Śwhere are all their mothers? They didn’t come from thin air.” She still couldn’t believe it. �śI myself had fifteen children in an attempt to have a daughter,” Ellyn said, infinite sorrow in her eyes. �śSome women have birthed even more, trying every way our doctors could think of to conceive. Nothing worked, or worked consistently. �śWe are a tired, bitter sex, girl. More than happy to turn the birthing of daughters to someone else, but jealous that you can do what we cannot. Don’t expect sympathy from us over your desire to have a son. You are free to chose any of ours.” Her jaded expression seemed at odds with the woman she’d seemed to be. Vana frowned. �śI would love my children no matter what gender they were.” �śSay that after fifteen male babes and three miscarriages�"all daughters,” Ellyn said dryly, �śand I might believe you. At least I still look in on my children from time to time. Some women cannot even bear the sight of them and send them into the care of whoever will take them. A number of the boys below are such children.” Anger made Vana’s jaw lock. She wanted to demand which children, but didn’t. What could she do, go down there and adopt them all? �śCome,” Ellyn said firmly. �śYou have an implant to get.” Resentment made Vana’s steps slow, but she didn’t try to bolt. It would have been a futile move, considering that any one of her four armored guards was twice her size. The gun on the hip of the left guard caught her eye. He noticed her glance and sent her a stern look, almost daring her to try it. Once again Vana found herself with the medic. �śCan this be reversed?” she asked grimly as he reloaded his tool. �śIt won’t be.” �śBut it can be. What if someone found a way to make your women conceive and girls started popping up everywhere?” �śIt won’t happen. I know everything there is to know about female fertility. If there was a way to make that happen, I would have found it.” �śIf you knew everything there was to know, they’d all be having girl babies,” Vana said sweetly. His eyes narrowed and he pressed the tool to her skin, delivering a slight sting along with the pellet. But Vana had an idea now, and she was loath to let it go. �śI’d like to see your research on the matter.” He looked at her as if she were mad. �śYou don’t read our language.” �śSo? You must have translators somewhere. You guys managed to get along in our world. Besides, I’m sure the ladies here would like a chance to read some of your books if you provide translators. I’m sure Dagon would approve. After all, think how it would help us to learn about your culture.” Sarcasm laced her voice. The medic glanced at Ellyn. �śYou’ll have to ask Tzar Dagon about it.” �śTzar?” The word didn’t seem to translate well. �śIt is like a prince, or a king, but he is checked by a high counsel. Their offices are hereditary, but the Tzar is elected in a battle of arms, wit and character.” �śHow is it an election, then?” �śHe must be elected by his peers before he can compete in the trials.” �śHumph. King Dagon, is it?” That was the first she’d heard the title. Figured. He had the arrogance to be a king. But arrogance or not, she had some things to say to him. To her surprise, she had no trouble getting an audience with him. She had expected to be treated like a prisoner, so it was a surprise to see woman coming and going�"with escorts, of course�"to see various parts of the Bride House, as it was being called. She planned to take the tour herself, maybe find a likely escape route, but first she had business to take care of. The guards let her into Dagon’s office, then left the heavy door a discrete crack open. She glanced at it in surprise. It had been a long time since she’d been around people so conscientious about proprieties. One glance at Dagon and she understood better why. The man was still dressed in only black pants and red sash. The hard expanse of his bare chest and the power in his arms were magnetic. It was all she could do to drag her eyes away and look him in the eye. Even so, she felt her face burning and prayed she wasn’t blushing. �śYou look warm,” he drawled, eyeing the bright sunset orange, yellow and reds of her sarong. Her top was a more sedate rust color, a long sleeved, cropped shirt with a V-neck that clung to her curves and showed a generous length of smooth abdomen. His eyes lingered there, causing her color to heighten, before he gestured her to a low table spread with refreshments and pile of cushions. �śSeat yourself and I’ll pour you a cool drink.” Glad of the excuse he gave her, she quickly sat on a geometric patterned cushion. Strong like the man who owned them, the sapphire, ruby and bronze colors of the cushions supported her in silky comfort. There was something disturbingly intimate about the way he reclined on their softness, rarely taking his eyes off her as he ate. Unaccountably, she felt shy. She’d sought him out with an agenda, but now had difficulty untying her tongue. It would help if he would stop staring at her like that. Dagon didn’t care if she spoke or not. He was engaged in a pleasant fantasy of dragging his tongue down the centerline of her pretty stomach. The temptation to suck on her skin, to caress the tempting softness there was powerful. She might like it. By the way she kept sneaking looks at his bare skin, she might even welcome a little body play. Perhaps he should save room for dessert. Her throat worked as she swallowed, drawing his eyes there. Oh, yes. He could feel the hunger growing. As if girding for battle, she stiffened. �śI would like translators put in the woman’s room,” she said finally, with a militant gleam in her eye. �śWe would like to read in your language.” �śCertainly. I’ll have video translations made available as well. I’m glad to see you taking such an interest in your new home,” he said without hesitation. He grinned at her look of confusion. Her shoulders slumped as she lost momentum, then an irked expression crossed her face. �śGood. Then you don’t mind if I study the problem of your women’s fertility for myself. A fresh perspective may shed light on the problem.” Puzzled at her motive, he said cautiously, �śEven if you solved the mystery tomorrow, I would not let you leave. None of the women we have left is young. You will still bear a daughter.” Many of them, in fact, but there was no need to remind her of that just then. Resentment shown in her eyes. �śHave you considered that the daughters you are so set on will carry your genes? What if they have trouble bearing daughters? It would be smart to study the matter further now, before you have another crisis.” He hadn’t considered that. But somehow he doubted it was concern for his people that motivated her. �śAnd what do you get out of it?” �śIt will keep my mind busy. I didn’t spend all my time working myself to death for an education to let my mind go to pot now.” He’d bet his armor there was more motivating her than just that. Maybe she planned to gain access to tools that could help her escape. He would have to set someone to watch her�"one of younger men. Someone tolerant. The time spent together might even form into a match. Surely the sooner she was wedded and bedded, the more tractable she would be. A flash of heat at the thought made his nostrils flare. The pros and cons of letting her have her way flashed through his mind. What could it hurt? And if it kept her busy�ŚBesides, it would be the perfect opportunity to win a boon from her. After all, it wasn’t very often that he had a pretty woman indebted to him. �śVery well. But it will cost you. Are you familiar with the art of massage?” She eyed him like something foul that she didn’t want to step in. �śWhy?” Dagon gifted her with a predator’s smile. �śIt’s the price of my cooperation. And it would be a pleasant gesture on your part.” Without waiting for her answer, he rolled over on his stomach, laid his head on his arms and closed his eyes. She might as well get used to accepting a man’s will. Her future husband would thank him for beginning her training. As he’d known she would, she eventually rounded the table and sank down by his side, but not without some muttering. As her hands gingerly touched his back, she grumbled, �śIs there anything else you want, your greatness?” Amused by the way she made a slur of his title, he murmured, �śMm. I don’t think you’re ready yet for what I’d really like.” Her hands stilled, then commenced pounding on his back with satisfying force. It didn’t last, though. Those small hands of hers took more punishment than he did, and soon she had to resume a slower rubbing motion. It felt incredibly good. Very erotic. He was tempted to roll over and offer to give her the same service, though his version would be considerably more provocative. Glad he was on his belly, covering the result of his heated thoughts, he quieted himself to enjoy her attentions. After all, he had not chosen her�Śyet. But she had come to him. Surely that entitled him to some playfulness? The temptation was too great to bear. �śTell me, adajah , how is it that you remained chaste in a world as promiscuous as your own? You’re quite old to be still a�"ow!” He rolled over so quickly she fell away from him. No one had dared to strike him outside of battle in many years. It may have only been a cuff on the back of his head, but her audacity shocked him. It turned him on a little, too. Or maybe that was a result of her inelegant sprawl, which put her within easy reach. The length of leg she was showing didn’t hurt, either. Before he could thunder at her, she snapped, �śThat’s rude to mention, you�"you jerk! How could you guys sneak around, taking secret photos of us...or whatever you did. If I’d wanted a bunch of horny guys to see me naked, I’d have posed for Playboy and gotten paid for it!” Dagon gaped at her. �śHad I seen you naked, woman, I’d have remembered it! We did scans, true, but―” �śYou invaded my privacy, and every other woman’s here. As for how you could know that we, that I�Ś” She trailed off and looked away. �śThat’s a very small thing, compared to what we intend to do to you.” The heated words were a threat, true, but one he regarded with sensual promise. Too late, he realized how it would sound to her. He reached for her. Vana shot to her feet and backed away. Aiming for the door, she circled him, careful to stay out of reach. �śVana.” He stood up, extended his hand toward her. It only made her step quicker. She slipped through the door and was gone. Frustrated, he glared at the floor. That had been foolish of him. A man never threatened a woman with such things. But when she stood up to him as if she were twice her size and muscled as well, he forgot that inside she was nothing but soft woman, easily wounded. Well, maybe not entirely soft, he corrected himself ruefully as he considered the last few minutes. The woman had spine. It made him want to dominate her, and the fire in his blood told him how. Unfortunately, he was not free to choose a woman based on lustful attraction. As leader of his people, he needed something more. Someone with queenly qualities. Though he hadn’t quite defined what those were, he doubted Vana had them. How could she? It was unlikely that the first woman he’d gotten to know would posses every quality he’d ever need in a wife. A wise man would get to know the others before he even thought about making a choice. Unaccountably restless, he paced to the window and looked out. The spires of the city he cared for did not soothe him as they usually did. He knew the cause. The women were in the Bride House, waiting. Years of sexual frustration told him that nothing was more important than seeking them out. Yet his father’s example stayed him. Though long dead, Dagon’s father Nadir still influenced his choices. He’d been a good father, but a poor husband. Anything his wife Ellyn had wanted, she’d gotten. In return she’d born him son after son. While it had given Nadir much happiness, for only a son could hold the throne, it had not pleased Ellyn. Instead of correcting her increasingly objectionable behavior, Nadir had simply hired male caretakers�"females did not do such menial things�"for his children and spent more time on matters of state. He’d practically raised his sons, while Ellyn withdrew to the point of a bitter wraith. While she’d mellowed with time and adjustment to her disappointment, Dagon had not forgotten how she’d been. He did not want a woman like her. Vana’s moods reminded him too much of his mother. Perhaps he should take a closer look at the girl Jen. She’d held up well under pressure, and her golden hair was lovely. Ser might consider it poaching, but Dagon had a right to look where he chose. After all, it wasn’t as if the two were promised yet. Feeling better, he turned from the window and selected some clothes. He had a queen to find. � *** Vana knew he was there, but she didn’t care. The way Dagon looked over the women, as if choosing his dinner from finely stocked table, sickened her. Not once did he glance her way, and that was fine with her, too. She retreated to her alcove, found a pair of loose midnight pants and a scarlet top that bound her chest adequately. A gold sash bound the pants securely to her middle. Moments later, she flung her curtain aside and marched off to glare her message at one of the guard-escorts. Silently, he followed her from the harem. The huge practice room the men worked in was mostly empty. She chose a side room, looked to see that it had no exits or windows, then turned to her guard. �śYou can see I can’t give you the slip in here. I’d appreciate it if you stayed outside while I worked out. I like my privacy.” She stared at him. He stared back. Slowly, he nodded. Relieved, she shut the door and faced the mirrored walls. Since the age of nine, when they’d introduced it in her school, she’d practiced Jujitsu. In collage she’d taken whatever martial art was available. Since she’d sucked at team sports and anything involving a ball, it had seemed wise. Besides, she’d enjoyed it, and it was practical. There’d even been some weapons training, and she was delighted to find several staffs in racks along one wall. Later she would practice with those. Nature had been kind to her. Blessed with stretchy ligaments, it hadn’t taken her long to manage both the Chinese and American splits. It felt good to indulge in them now. And while she had always hated patterns and had difficultly remembering them, she’d practiced enough strikes, blocks and kicks to keep her sweaty. It was hard to say how effective she’d be in an actual fight, but that didn’t keep her from practicing. At least the movements kept her fit. It was a relief to forget where she was, and what was expected of her. The outlet for her anger alone made all the practice hours she’d spent worth it. The burn was feeling so good, in fact, that the muscle she tore while sending a roundhouse kick at a shadow target caught her by surprise. She yelped, then leaned over, panting. It stung, but it wouldn’t kill her. It did put a damper on her practice, though. Stupid high-kicks. Even when she warmed up, they sometimes popped that silly muscle. Wiping the sweat from her brow, she opened the door. Her keeper frowned at her as she hobbled out. �śDo you need help?” �śNo.” The terse word must have been enough, for he didn’t bother her again. She gauged the limping distance to the door and blinked in surprise. There was a gaggle of four children gathered around her, staring at her curiously. �śWhat were you doing?” a tow headed lad who must have been eleven asked. He looked very grave, as if he were addressing someone of importance. �śWe heard shouting.” Pleasantly surprised by the young ones, she shrugged. �śI was working out.” �śYes, but what were you doing?” a younger lad of maybe nine asked. He was missing a tooth, and had a black tattoo on his right cheek. �śDo you dance?” He looked eager. �śJujitsu is a martial art, not a dance. I hate to disappoint you, but I’m a terrible dancer.” There was a hum of surprise among the boys. The blond said suspiciously, �śBut women aren’t allowed to do such things.” Vana glanced at her guard. He was frowning at her like someone who’d love to give a lecture but wasn’t certain it was his place. �śWhat’s your name?” she asked, stalling. �śDevin,” the boy answered. �śThis little dark one is Keg, the twins are Gamin and Bajeng.” The twins he indicated looked to be six. Both had dark hair caught up in topknots and dark eyes ringed in thick lashes. The stern looks they sent her saved them from the classification of too cute for words, though they edged dangerously close to adorable. Quelling her grin, Vana said gravely, �śThings are different where I come from. Women are well advised to take care of themselves, because we don’t have men following us around willing to do it for us.” She nodded at her guard as if he were actually doing her a useful service. The short haired Devin considered that. �śYou have Dark Ones who would steal you there?” In spite of her best efforts, her mouth twitched. �śAhem. I don’t know about that. But there are muggers, and killers, and men with, uh, unsavory things on their mind. It’s just not safe to be ignorant when you’re the only one looking out for your own safety.” The boys looked at each other. Devin spoke. �śYou need an escort, lady. You are far too valuable to try to protect yourself. We can do it, it you’ll have us.” The humor made her eyes water. They were good kids, but did they really think she had more value than a brood mare? �śThat’s really kind of you―” Sensing a rejection, Devin demonstrated a few quick moves. �śYou see, lady? We are the best of our class. We can protect you well.” The boy was very good. Fast and accurate. And so gravely earnest she just wanted to hug him. �śUm, yeah. I can see that.” In a hurry not to be shown up, Keg backed up to give himself room and executed some quick moves. He was graceful for one so young. Even Vana wondered if she could take him in a fair fight. But when the twins got into the act and started showing off, she hurried to distract them. At this rate they’d be staging a full-blown tournament, and her bladder wouldn’t take much more waiting. �śWow! That’s great. Super, even. I tell you what. You guys point me in the direction of the bathroom, and I’ll think about it.” They lit up like she’d promised to introduce them to Santa Claus. All four of them�"and one highly amused guard�"escorted her to the restrooms and waited outside. �śAre you hurt badly? You could go to the medic,” Keg said gravely as she limped out. The memory of her encounter with that man made her eyes narrow. �śI don’t think so.” �śAre you afraid?” One of the twins, Gamin, asked. It never occurred to Vana to censor her words. It was her habit to be as frank with kids as she was with adults, barring certain material. �śI don’t like him. He made it so I can only have daughters, and I wanted to have a boy, too.” They blinked at her with identical looks of disbelief. �śWhy would you want that?” Keg finally asked. �śBecause I like the idea of snails and puppy dog tails,” she said a trifle crossly. �śVarity is the spice of life, and all that.” She sighed at their odd looks. �śBoys are just as important as girls. I like them. I’d like one of my own. Now, thanks to Dagon and that jerk medic of his, I can’t have one.” Angry, she turned and stalked toward the exit. The light slap of feet behind her warned her before Devin jumped in her way. �śLady,” he said hopefully. �śYou can have us.” She frowned, not understanding. �śOur mothers do not want us. Our father died in battle. You don’t have to claim us,” he added with a flush of shyness, �śbut we can serve you, if you like.” The others lined up next to him. �śYes! You need guards and pages,” Keg said solemnly. The twins nodded so fast, she feared their heads would fall off. She didn’t know what to say. No one had ever offered themselves to her before. She didn’t even know if what they were doing was legal. Unsure, she glanced at her guard. �śAre single women allowed to do such a thing?” He looked at her as if she’d grown two heads. �śWho would stop them?” Well. Bemused, she stared at the boys. They stared back. Gamin bounced, while Keg seemed to be holding his breath. How could she tell them no? � � Chapter 3 � Dagon stared at his little brothers, and the guard that bore witness to their words. It wasn’t sinking in. �śShe did what?” �śShe said she would be honored to serve as our mother,” Keg said with barely suppressed excitement. �śLads,” Dagon said slowly, �śyour mother is still alive.” �śBut she said that Lady Vana could have any of her sons that she liked,” Keg said solemnly. �śI was nearby when she said it.” Grieved, Dagon rubbed his jaw and looked away. He’d known for a long time how Ellyn felt, but to hear her say the words�Ś. But his brothers were excited, and they needed his answer now. Not that his opinion mattered. Vana had accepted them. It only lacked the ceremony to make it official. �śIf that’s what you want, lads.” Keg whooped. �śNow we’ll have a mother. Come on, brothers! We need to plan who will be our new father. Then we’ll get sisters�Ś” their voices trailed off as they headed for their apartments. Alarmed, Dagon listened to them plot. Did Vana know what she’d brought on herself? He sent for her immediately. � *** Vana wondered if she were still sane. That’s what she got for thinking with her emotions. How was she supposed to run away after adopting a full brood of alien children? Assuming she could even get home. What would customs think? It was hardly a surprise when a guard came to escort her to Dagon. Someone had been bound to object to the impromptu adoption. He probably had a zillion forms for her to fill out, or a lengthy discourse on why it wasn’t possible. Secretly, she was a little relieved. Someone like her had no business taking responsibility for four children. She was a captive. Soon to be married off to heaven-knew-who. She’d been crazy to ever say yes. Having talked herself into letting the adoption idea go, she was surprised when Dagon met her at his door without a lecture. �śAre you sure you can handle this?” He looked tense, but not angry or stern. And he was wearing a jacket that made her avert her eyes in mortification. Or rather, it was the lack of a shirt under it, and the resulting view of his hard body that made it so risqué. Couldn’t the man ever wear something that covered him? Expecting him to talk her out of it, she eased into the room, but remained standing. �śAre you going to tell me that I can’t?” It would certainly ease her conscience. Once given, she couldn’t go back on her word. Not unless a higher power vetoed it. Blue eyes studied her with frank appraisal that was in no way sexual. �śI hadn’t thought you were the type to take on such a responsibility.” For some reason that made her blush. �śI guess you don’t know everything about me.” He frowned and waved her to his pile of cushions. �śYou do know that the boys who’ve petitioned you are my brothers, don’t you?” In the process of sitting, she lost her balance and went down with a soft whump! �śYour brothers?” What kind of wacky place was this? And why would the boys want her when they had him? A shocking thought occurred to her. She looked at Dagon in alarm. �śThis won’t make us mother and son, will it?” He looked slightly ill. �śNo! I am of age. It is only for the boys.” �śThank God.” That could be really icky. She didn’t care to examine why it was important. Besides, a chorus of �Śwhys’ sang in her brain. �śBut if they have you, then they don’t need another guardian. Why would I matter to them?” �śIt’s for the prestige. An acting mother is a rare thing. Should you match up with a powerful warrior, it will make them more important in their peer’s eyes, as will the birth of sisters, for their friends will grow up to vie for the girl’s hands. The better the girl’s matches, the more connections and power they will grow to have. Even now, they discuss who is the best warrior they know in hopes of introducing you to him. I’ve no doubt they followed you to the practice room and stood outside your door, waiting to waylay you.” Nonplussed, she considered that. She was about to adopt budding politicians. �śDid they learn these bad habits from you?” His answer was a sly smile. She sighed. Compassion had prompted her to extend her word to the boys. Honor wouldn’t let her take it back. It was disappointing to hear that they hadn’t been prompted by a real need for her, but surely her instincts hadn’t been that far off. Maybe deep inside, they really did want a mother. The passage of years hadn’t stilled the fierce yearning that she still felt for hers. Though they might not admit it, the boys might feel the same. It made her edgy that Dagon was their guardian, and that she was about to become the other half. It was too much like�Śbest not to go there. Determined to go into things with her eyes wide open, she asked, �śWho is their mother? Does she really not care what happens to them? I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes.” All expression left him. �śYou won’t. Ellyn herself said you might have any of her sons.” Shock made her eyes widen. Vana didn’t know what to say. If Ellyn was his mother, too�Śouch. Now the kid’s search for a new mother made more sense. The woman’s callousness toward her sons made Vana want to slap her. �śDoes she have any more sons? She spoke of fifteen.” He raised a brow. �śFour are not enough for you?” �śI’m just curious.” That came out a trifle defensive. She hadn’t even adopted the first batch yet, and already she wanted to mother the rest. Why couldn’t she listen to her selfish instincts when it really mattered? Dagon sighed. �śSome of them died in battle. One did not survive childhood.” Pain upon pain. They were definitely not the Brady Bunch. �śI’m sorry. Does anything good ever happen in your family?” �śPossibly you, though I’m reserving judgment just now,” he said with the hint of a smile. The soft light in his eyes made her uneasy. She cleared her throat. �śThat still leaves a few, doesn’t it? Where are they?” �śThe others are with their fathers. Ellyn was not always faithful.” Gape mouthed, she blinked at him. His revelation was at odds with the reserved, elegant picture she’d formed of Ellyn. �śBut�Śwhat did your father do about that?” �śWhat could he do? She was a woman,” he said harshly. Apparently that said it all. �śWhy do you act so offended? I saw some of your television programs while I was on Earth. Your women do worse things. As far as I can tell, they have no morals at all.” She sputtered. �śYou can’t judge us all by what you saw on TV! Everybody knows that it’s filled with garbage. Besides, look at me. You took me because I was�Ś.” She clamped her mouth shut. Had she really almost brought up her virginity with the man? Eager to change the subject, she said, �śBut that’s not right! Ellyn, I mean. You make it sound as if a woman could get away with murder. Isn’t there any penalty for these things? I know that women are important to you, but still�Ś.” A shrewd gleam appeared in his eyes. �śPerhaps, as a woman, you could be impartial in these matters. Do you truly believe that a woman would be better tried by a jury of peers?” Like she had to think hard to answer that one! �śWell, yeah. You guys don’t seem to be doing so hot at it.” The gleam turned into a satisfied, piratical smile. �śI’ll remember you said that. In the meantime, you have a ceremony to prepare for. We’ll hold it at the end of the week. If you change your mind before then, let me know. I won’t announce it until the last minute to save you face if you back out.” The way he said it made her burn. As if she weren’t trustworthy enough to stick to her guns. �śWhat do I have to do?” �śWe’ll go over it later. In the meantime, spend time with the boys. Make sure you can handle them. We’ll talk again later.” He waved her out as if she held no more interest for him than a gnat. Burning with a surprising amount of resentment over his attitude, she let herself out. The man had a way of pushing her buttons. With any luck, he’d get stuck with a woman who would know how to push back. � *** �śYou should have her tested.” Dagon looked at Ser over his breakfast table. They’d been friends for many years, yet Ser still managed to surprise him with comments straight from the blue. �śWho?” �śThe girl. Vana. I see the way she looks at you when we’re in the harem. How quickly she turns away if you look at her. She likes you. I think she’s worth testing.” As a trusted advisor, Ser’s opinion held weight. Dagon toyed with a stick of spiced bread as he considered his words. There were many reasons he hadn’t let himself romanticize about his future wife. The council was still reviewing the secret recordings of the women, observing them when they were unaware. It was important to know what they were like when they thought no one was watching. Just as Dagon had been elected for the right to be Tzar, so would his consort have to pass the council’s scrutiny. �śYou think she would make a good queen?” �śIt’s possible,” Ser said firmly. He wouldn’t have spoken if he weren’t convinced of it. It was his way. Encouraged by Ser’s words, Dagon allowed himself a small smile. Vana was a choice he could bear. Of course, he didn’t have to choose whomever the council selected. He could go without. That option was hardly palatable. And Vana was�Śacceptable. He ignored his quickened pulse. True, her soft heart would have to be governed, but he could easily do that. It was preferable to the alternative. Perhaps she was too contentious for her own good, but at least she had spirit. She was athletic, intelligent and good with children. Her body�Ś. He glanced casually at Ser. �śVery well. Since you suggested it. We’ll test her.” � *** The ceremonial robes they’d insisted she wear kept tripping her. Tired of stumbling over the layered silk hem, she plopped herself in a chair and fingered the gold embroidery. The high-collared robe was stiff, blue, and weighed on her shoulders, reminding her that what she was doing was no light thing. In contrast, the pale blue sheath under it was nearly weightless, making her feel as if she were about to strut around in public in her pajamas. At least the robe had gold closures, though they were chunky and designed to show the sheath beneath. They had moved her to a room much closer to Dagon’s. Down the hall, in fact. The reason given was that it would allow the boys easier access to their new �śmother”. She didn’t know if she bought that, but she did like the privacy. The room was done in warm tones of pink, with the occasional burst of shocking cherry and white in the huge urns and intricately painted flower pots. A musical instrument of the harp persuasion occupied one corner of the room. Idly, she wondered if she were expected to learn it. Good luck there. Her new bed was immense and spread with a white velvet coverlet embroidered with a crest. Dagon’s, she suspected. It made her feel odd, as if he’d placed his stamp upon her. A riptide of emotions swirled in her heart as she thought about the coming ceremony. The boys were a pack of wolf cubs. Too old for their age, yet mischievous enough to give the faint of heart fits. Already she could see that they were going to grow into fine warriors, and they worshiped their brother Dagon. When they weren’t fighting or plotting, they constantly practiced their martial arts. To his credit, Dagon noticed their efforts to please him. He knew just the moment to speak a word of praise, and just the right kind of frown to gain instant obedience. She could see him as a leader in battle. From what she’d observed, he ran his kingdom well. She was still determined to leave. Maybe it was dishonorable of her, but she planned to subtly pump the boys for information. While she was at it, she’d learn all she could of the world that had snatched her. The more she knew, the easier it would be to escape and elude capture. Ideally, she would get out within the month. Already she could feel the growing familiarity with this place sucking her in. The longer she was there, the worse it would be. Risky as it was, she had to take the earliest opportunity to leave. Now she just had to figure out how she’d got there in the first place. A knock sounded on the door. �śMa’am? It’s time.” The grand hall she was led to was filled with a glittering array of guests. Many of the women from the harem stood beside the soberly robed warriors. They watched her with a mixture of resentment, puzzlement or curiosity. Jen was there with Ser. She gave Vana a small smile. Dagon stood at the head of the hall on a small dais. The expression on his face was solemn to match the occasion. Light gleamed off his glossy black body armor. A gold trimmed, long coat of scarlet swirled around him. It was sleeveless, with a Chinese collar trimmed in red. Breathless from the sight, she looked at the boys who stood just below the dais, smiling at their expressions. Young Devin, not yet a teen, had the rebellious light of hope shining in his eyes. His white outfit, the same as the others wore, made him look like an adolescent white knight. As dark as Devin was blond, Keg’s stare dared her to back out. How could she when she knew the tattoo on his face had been put there by his dying father, the last of his family? He’d wanted to see the last hope of his bloodline on the face of his son, to remind Keg of the need to survive and save their line. It was too heavy a burden to let the boy bear alone. Who would teach him moderation in his quest to please the dead? Someone had to give him back the gift of his childhood. And the twins. Destined to be lady-killers, both betrayed their youth with the hopeful fear they tried to hide. She wondered how long their white outfits would survive the trauma they’d put them through. �śLady, are you ready?” Dagon asked, prompting her to look at him. �śI am.” He gestured, and his mother stepped forward. Vana felt the blood leave her face. She hadn’t expected Ellyn to show up. As serene as if the moment mattered nothing to her, Ellyn said calmly, �śFrom this moment on, I relinquish my children. I did not birth them. I do not know them.” She turned her back on the boys. In response, every soul in hall did the same. They stood there, repudiated before everyone they knew, motherless. Unwanted. Horrified, for Vana had never expected this kind of humiliation for them, she sought Dagon’s hard gaze. He’d been abandoned, too. Slowly, her hand curled into a fist. Making sure her voice carried throughout the hall, she stepped forward and said the words she’d been taught, plus some. �śI want them. They will be my sons. It will be as if they came from my body. When they bleed, my heart will bleed. Those who will not acknowledge them will not be welcome in my house. They are dead to me.” Gasps went through the hall. That last bit had not been part of little speech they’d taught her. Considering her position, it was as daring as actually slapping Ellyn’s face. Ellyn stiffened. The guests turned around as tradition demanded. For long seconds it looked as if Ellyn would simply walk off and never face them. But finally, her face proud and cold, she turned, though the hand clenched in her yellow robe trembled. Vana didn’t care. Any woman who could do that to her children was not a woman Vana wanted near them. Dagon glanced at Ellyn. Grimly, he told the boys, �śGreet your mother.” As she’d been coached, Vana knelt and accepted their light touches on her shoulders as they affixed the beads with their name runes engraved on them in her braided hair. Each bead was carved from the stone for their birth week. When they were finished, she had two beads of jade, one of gold, and a winking ruby among her tresses. It felt good. The glow of family filled an ache she hadn’t known was empty. Maybe she had found a reason to stay after all. � Dagon was polite to those at the banquet, though he said little, especially to Vana. Had she not been so distracted by the merrymaking, she might have paid closer attention. She might have feared. When the feast was over, she was summoned to his room. The door closed behind her. That was first bad sign. Still dressed in black, though he’d discarded the red robe, Dagon advanced on her with the slow tread of a stalking cat. Dark rage shimmered from his every line. �śI have never, never felt so much like beating a woman,” he breathed in her face. �śHow dare you cast Ellyn out!” Confused, but unwilling to be cowed, she said tightly, �śThe woman deserved it.” He made a slow circle around her. His size dwarfed her, his closeness made her feel the danger. �śDo you have any idea how powerful of an enemy you’ve made today? Do you have some hidden protection that I can’t see? Ellyn has reason now to despise not only you, but what are now your sons. You publicly humiliated her. She will never forgive it.” Bile churned in her stomach. Even her teeth wanted to chatter with her fury. It was too much like her father, the way Ellyn had turned her back. Vana could still see his face as he shoved her mother out of his way, gave his little girl a look of disgust, and left for good. �śI hate the air she breathes! I don’t care if she does hate me.” Dagon’s teeth flashed in a snarl as he grabbed her and shoved her up against the wall. Face contorted with emotions she couldn’t fathom, he rasped at her, �śShe will try to kill you. Is that worth your revenge? Is death a high enough price to pay?” �śWhat is that to me? You’ve already taken away everything I loved. My world! What’s it to you if you she takes my life, too?” He shoved away from the wall as if she’d burned him. �śYou are a fool.” Just then, she felt like one. Had she ever felt soft toward him? Where had this dark side of his come from? It didn’t take much to tell her that any move she made would ignite his shaky temper. And just then, she wasn’t sure she could control the watery burning that threatened to spill down her cheeks. Though they were born of wrath, she couldn’t bear to shed tears in front of him. He looked at her. His face hardened. �śGet out.” Dagon watched her leave, furious at the loss of control he’d just shamed himself with. He’d meant to chasten and warn her. Instead�Ś. He paced. The moment Ellyn had turned her back and Vana had looked at him with eyes that were open windows to her soul, he should have known. Every thought in her heart was bare to him, and his own had shuddered with impact of the connection. But it had still rocked him to hear the words that put her in mortal combat with a woman who had seen more than her share of opponents to their defeat. This time he feared the grudge match would see Vana in her grave. Unable to bear the memory, he cursed. She’d had no idea. That heart he’d pegged as too soft had led her. Without his guiding hand, she had leapt into the fire to protect the innocent. She was a fool. Dagon’s hand clenched. Bloody disrespect for politics. Overblown noble urges. The woman was the worst possible candidate for queen. Testing or not, he was not going to accept her. No woman who thought the way she did would survive the position. He left the room in search of Jen. � *** Vana adjusted the cuff on her left arm and spared a thankful thought for the slit harem pants and midriff-baring top. They were flexible and cool for working out. The metal cuff blared Queen’s Who Wants to Live Forever as she started to climb the revolving training wall. Sometimes she could almost thank the Beasts for downloading the Internet in their quest to capture women. The pounding music helped her not to think. The rough rocks bit into her hands, wearing at skin that wasn’t as calloused as it was going to be, although the rag strips she wrapped around her palms provided some protection. She refused to ask for gloves. Her guard already frowned at her hours of exercise. Begging for anything from Dagon was out, and she didn’t know whom else to ask. After half an hour the blisters on her fingers mixed with the sweat and oozed, making her grip treacherous. Since she was already quivering with exhaustion and dripping sweat, she let the wall carry her to the bottom and got off. A towel was thrust into her line of vision. She took it and stared at Ser, who reached over and turned off her music with a grimace. �śYou look awful,” he said, frowning at her. She let out a shuddering breath and mopped at her face. Maybe, but it let her sleep at night. Two days had passed since she’d been summoned to Dagon’s room. Two days in which she’d spent every spare minute trying to forget. Vana sat on the floor and took a huge gulp of her water bottle, vaguely surprised when Ser joined her. He looked at her. �śYou should ignore his temper.” She stiffened. �śDid he send you?” He shrugged. �śI like to interfere.” His teeth flashed in a quick grin. �śAnd it’s painfully obvious he’s set on annoying me until I give him back the distraction of you.” She snorted. �śIt’s true. I haven’t seen him this brooding since the birth of his last half-brother.” The admission earned him a grunt. It was all she was willing to contribute to the conversation. Ser glanced up at the wall. �śWhy do you do this? You’ve been offered a life of ease. Why don’t you enjoy it?” �śI’m the captain of my own soul, and it’s a restless spirit. I’ll do it until I’m forbidden, and then I’ll do it in my own room where no one can watch to stop me. I need it.” Those knowing eyes studied her. �śYou’re afraid.” �śWe’re all afraid of something.” She gazed across the vastness of the training area. The unused portions were in shadow. For the second night running, she’d been alone. She doubted it was an accident. Either the men had been ordered away while she was there, or they avoided her workouts for cultural reasons. Both options made her feel depressed. Already she was more isolated than she cared to be, since the harem wasn’t a welcome place to be now that she’d adopted the boys. Too many women turned their backs on her. Other than Jen, there hadn’t been that much time to connect with them, anyway. Not for an introvert like her. He followed her gaze. �śThis seclusion is not good for you.” She shrugged. Even back home she’d had a hard time making friends. �śWhere are your sons?” Did he ever give up? �śAround. They got their figurehead and then scampered off to plot some more, according to their brother.” The mention of Dagon depressed her. She fiddled with her bottle. �śThey are unused to having a mother, which is what I think you wanted to be. Maybe you should make the first gesture.” �śThey don’t need me.” Ser glowered at her impatiently. �śAre you always such a coward?” Before she could retort, he went on ruthlessly, �śYou have the Tzar of my people so stirred over you that he can’t sleep and the sons you professed to want in your hands, yet you won’t finish the run. Have you thought of the good you could do the women as queen? Or would you like the next one to be like the dowager Ellyn? What do you think Dagon could possibly do to you as his consort that would outweigh the power of that position?” �śThe position isn’t open,” she said through clenched teeth. �śI don’t want it open. I don’t want him! I want to go home. Why should I get attached to anything or anyone here? I don’t belong here.” She stood up. He rose, towered over her. �śYou never belonged anywhere else. This place can be what you shape it to be, if you’ve the courage not to run away.” �śIf you were me, is that what you’d call it? Running away?” she demanded. �śI’ll never be you. I face my battles, and I know my options. If you had the courage, you’d seize the prize instead of running down the path of least resistance.” �śSo it’s going to be easy to go home?” she challenged him, unable to let him just stand there and tell her what she thought, what she felt. He leaned in close, ignoring her question. �śWill you ever forget him if you leave? Do you not think he would be inside you, a ghost in your heart?” Vana couldn’t answer. He nodded and walked away, leaving her alone in the echoing gym. � *** Vana took a fast shower under the multiple showerheads in her private bathroom, then donned the bright yellow and black patterned square that served as alien nightwear. It had a fringe and was knotted at the shoulder, leaving one shoulder bare. The abbreviated sari remained open at one side, revealing flashes of skin as she moved, yet covering the essentials. Soft and thin enough to feel weightless under the covers, it did not bunch or drag at her as she tossed in her bed, and was more secure that sleeping naked. As she stared at the ceiling, willing herself to sleep, Ser’s words played in her mind. Now that he’d rubbed her nose in it, she realized that yes, the woman who married Dagon would become queen. One plus one equals royalty. If anything, it only made him seem more forbidding in her mind. Who wanted to be a queen? And in spite of her unique position, she neither wanted the job nor considered herself in the running for it. If Dagon was losing sleep over her, it was because of the problems she caused him. Had she been the type to indulge in wishful thinking, she’d have hoped that he’d be inspired to send her troublesome self home. The realist in her knew better. If she got home, it would be because she was smart enough to get the job done herself. It might involve using people. That part she hated. She would do her best to avoid it, but if it came down to a choice between staying here and getting home�Ś. She rolled over and pounded her pillow, trying not to think about the luxuries of not paying rent or doing her own laundry. Chores were good. They meant she was making her own choices, living her own life. Maybe that life had been a bit empty, but.�Ś Groaning in frustration, she buried her head under the pillow and willed herself to sleep. The Beast was big, black and crawling up her bed. Vana stared in horror as the scene played out in slow motion. He wanted her. Though he had yet to touch her, he pinned her in place with the force of his will alone. He was all about claiming. Possession. Passion. And he terrified her like nothing she’d felt in her life. She woke with a muffled scream, flailing about in the tangled covers. It took long moments to clear her head, but when it did�Ś. Rolling over, she pulled the covers over her head. She had to get out of there! � *** The boys were in the kitchens, doing their pagely duties. She’d been surprised that morning when she’d learned that even young princes were expected to work their way up the ranks like everybody else. When she spotted Devin doing his hour of vegetable scrubbing, though, she had to wonder at the wisdom of starting so young. The kid was soaked with water and seemed to be doing his best to annoy the older lad in charge of watching him. Easily six foot, the white haired boy scowled at Devin as he rewashed the occasional vegetable and chopped it with the skill of a television chef. He was handsome, in a grumpy sort of way. Too bad he was too young to be allowed to chose a wife. Some of the younger girls would have drooled over him for sure. �śHey!” Devin shouted as the older boy tossed a still-dirty tuber back in his sink, splashing him. �śYou didn’t have to do that, Roac!” �śClean it and I won’t,” Roac retorted, then went back hacking hapless roots. �śNeed a hand?” Vana offered. The boys turned and stared at her as if she’d sprouted fangs and tentacles. It was a look she’d gotten often and almost universally since she’d stepped foot in the kitchen. Obviously, she’d found another taboo to flaunt. How marvelous. �śWomen don’t work in the kitchen,” Roac said as if she’d proposed to rob the place. She raised a brow. �śI’m an excellent cook, thank you very much. And I was under the impression that women did pretty much whatever they wanted to do here.” All except for the captives, that was, but she didn’t point that out. No use in mucking with conditioning that might benefit her. �śAre you going to be the one to throw me out?” A muscle in his jaw flexed, then he turned around and went back to work. Ah, hah! I’m getting the hang of this, she thought smugly. She contemplated Devin, who blinked at her as if she’d just done something miraculous. �śI really do like to cook, especially desserts, but I hardly know anything about your ingredients. I really want to know about adoc. Since you’re my son, would you like to teach me?” He puffed up and glanced around to make certain that the rest of the crowded kitchen had heard her. �śYes, mother. I’ll teach you all about it.” Devin wiped his hands on his apron importantly and started to walk away from the sink. �śWhere are you going?” Vana asked chidingly. �śTo get you some adoc,” he said, confused. �śAre you done with your chores?” He looked at the sink reluctantly. �śNo.” �śI can wait.” Roac almost looked impressed. Vana eyed his pile of diced veggies. �śThat’s impressive. Do you train with a knife outside of the kitchen, too? With the men?” He went back to work, giving her his back. �śEveryone trains.” �śThen you know how to use a sword?” He shrugged. �śWould you teach me?” He nearly cut off his thumb. �śWomen don’t train!” It was her turn to shrug. �śI do. Every night. Dagon doesn’t care.” Roac eyed her, slicing his victims more slowly. Clearly he needed more incentive. She had just the thing. �śWhere I come from, we barter. Tell me, who are your parents?” A murderous light came in his eyes. �śI have none. I am unclaimed.” Vana winced. She’d been hoping to trade some of the items she’d been given to wear�"some of the collars had real gems�"for some lessons in Beast weaponry. Under the circumstances she’d worry about the legality of it later. Getting an idea of how well off the kid was and what his parents would allow had been her goal. Hurting the boy was the last thing she’d wanted. �śOkay. I can identify with that. My father didn’t want me, either.” Disbelief was written all over his face. She leaned a hip against his counter and picked up a diced veggie, eyeing it contemplatively as she tried to sound casual. �śIn my case we were better off. My old man used to beat mama. One day he came home drunk and wreaked the house. He beat her black and blue and walked out with that month’s rent money. We never saw him again.” She smiled without humor, as if that memory didn’t bite. �śSo you see, I had a good reason to practice martial arts. I’m willing to pay you to expand my knowledge. Are you interested?” �śYou think the Tzar will give you to an old man who will beat you?” Roac said the words slowly, as if they made no sense. �śYou are too valuable―” �śLook, are you interested or not?” she said impatiently. No matter what the locals thought, she knew that Dagon didn’t walk on water. This kid was a target of opportunity, someone maybe young enough to be flexible, yet old enough to have useful information. And yes, in her heart she feared what Dagon would do. Carefully, as if afraid that she would ask the impossible, he said slowly, �śWhat did you want to know?” So Vana learned about the cultivation, preparation, and especially the consumption of, adoc. Devin even offered to show her the gardens where it was grown, and she agreed to plan a picnic with all of her sons. Although she invited Roac, he refused. She had the feeling that such invitations were rare in his life, and that maybe he needed persuading. In spite of himself, she liked him. It might be fun to convince him to cooperate. To her surprise, her lessons started in the kitchen yard. Roac handed her a sword, corrected her grip, then set her before a big round fruit on a piece of firewood. �śThat’s a man’s head. Split it.” He crossed his arms and stared at her skeptically. The crowd of men and boys included her sons, who’d somehow gotten wind of the action. They�Śd shirked their chores to watch the fun. The kitchen help stood around, torn between watching her respectfully and smirking. Nobody thought she could do it. So she raised the sword and brought it down as hard as she could, pretending it was an oversize cleaver. It bounced off the smooth green hull as if it had hit a stone. Hands stinging, she ignored the chuckles and picked up the fruit. It made a rock-like thunking against the wood. She’d bet even Dagon’s skull couldn’t be this hard. �śIs this a trick?” she demanded of Roac. In answer, he took the sword, moved her back, and raised it high in a two fisted grip. The melon split as if made of butter. He looked at her. �śThere’s a huge pile of these for you to practice on. We make juice of them for the evening meal.” He nodded at the pile of pale green cannonballs. He was right. It was huge. Vana sighed and accepted the sword back. �śOkay. Show me again how to hold this.” Beasts didn’t use the sword in real battle, but they trained in their ancient martial arts for the same reason that her gun-infested world chose to keep them alive. Besides, many of the moves translated well to makeshift weapons, like sticks. She’d always wanted to learn the sword, but by the time she’d demolished the pile of fruit, she was starting to rue that wish. Even Keg had long since deserted her for other amusements, and it was nearing sunset. It was all she could do to sit on the stump and use her sword as a prop for her arms. Everything hurt. �śWhy do you bother?” She looked up. Dagon had replaced her ever-present guard and was watching her in the growing gloom of the side-yard. Wiping the sweat off her forehead with the back of one trembling hand, she said hoarsely, �śI like to finish what I start.” She accepted the cool drink he handed her gratefully. To her surprise, she recognized the taste of the fruit she’d labored so hard to split. �śI thought you deserved a taste of your efforts.” �śUm.” She didn’t have a lot of energy left for conversation. He studied her in the growing darkness. �śYou think I will give you to an old man who will beat you.” Vana grunted softly, too tired to be annoyed. �śDevin.” �śThat will not happen.” Silence. �śIt might surprise you to know that there is a death penalty here for beating women.” �śYou marry sixteen year olds to men ten years or more their senior.” �śTwenty-six is hardly an old man. Neither would a man in his thirties be too advanced for you.” She stared at the ground and chose to let that dangerous comment lie. Softy, he asked, �śAre you that afraid of intimacy with a man?” Her head shot up. �śNot if it were my choice! Being forced like this�Śno woman wants that.” A few smooth steps brought him to her side. Gently, he cupped her cheek and raised her head. �śLet me show you something, adajah ,” he whispered. His kiss was soft, barely there. Lips met lips in a slow, gentle slide. Long moments passed as he tasted of her slightly parted mouth, in no hurry to demand more. It rocked her. No one had ever been so patient with her, which was why she was still so unskilled at kissing. But Dagon�Śhe kissed her as if he were the teacher, content to pleasure her all day as he learned the shape of her mouth, the softness of the pink skin. His hand under her hair warmed her as his gentle stroking sent tingles skipping down her neck. He caressed her cheek with the edge of his lips, sighing against her skin. His mouth brushed the edge of hers, and he withdrew with a soft sigh. �śYou taste like heaven, adajah mene .” She rested within his arms, trembling a little. Her first lesson in Beast sensuality had completely shattered her composure. If they all made love like this�Śbut she didn’t care what any other man did. It had been Dagon who had showed her, and it was Dagon who held her. She wanted no one else. Perhaps that was what truly scared her. He drew back and took her hands, pulling her gently to her feet. �śCome. Let me wash your hair. There will be a banquet tonight, and you won’t want to miss it.” In a sensual daze, she nodded dumbly and followed where he led. Once inside, he had her kneel in a corner of the warm kitchen. While she braced her forearms on a short stool and leaned over, he poured warm water over her head, catching the runoff in a basin. Then he rubbed cleanser between his palms and worked it into her long hair, massaging her scalp with his fingers. Heaven was the feeling of his hands on her. Less pleasing was the number of cooks and kitchen boys pretending to ignore them. By now she knew the rules―Dagon would not risk being alone with her. A traitorous part of her was starting to regret that. The cleanser must have been his, for it had a musky, woodsy, masculine scent that she’d always associated with him. It curled around her like smoke, marking her in a subtle, yet definite way. Even the careful way he dried her hair felt good to her sensitized nerves. �śI have no brush. We’ll have to go get one,” he said when he was finished, looking pleased by the idea. �śCome.” He didn’t touch her, but escorted her to her room, in no particular hurry. �śBathe and dress, then come to me,” he told her at her door, ignoring her bodyguards. �śYour sons and I will brush your hair for the banquet.” In spite of her soreness, she didn’t linger under the hot spray of the shower. For once, she felt grateful for the rich array of her new wardrobe, and carefully chose a gossamer sari of lavender and blue. It clasped at one shoulder, leaving the other bare. The cool platinum of a spiral arm bracelet rode on one arm. Dagon had given it to her as a new mother gift. Unless she fancied thongs, there was nothing to wear under it, so she chose to go bare underneath, careful not to examine her actions too closely. � Dagon was bewitching her good sense. � *** The moment Dagon saw her, his mouth went dry. A fall of shimmering silk disguised her breast on one side, but on the other, he could see the faint delineation of her peak. Every curve and hollow was faithfully outlined, making him feel weak. It was all he could do to move away from the door and accept the brush she shyly handed him. She followed his wordless gesture, seating herself gracefully on his cushions as he knelt behind her to work on her damp hair. As if on cue, his brothers galloped in from the next room. �śDid you bring the beads? Good!” Devin collected his from her open palm. �śI’m the oldest, so I get to put mine in first.” Dagon tried not to sigh at the verbal jostling that came next as his brothers worked out the order of who would get her attention next. If he’d had his way, she’d be alone with no one but him. He almost regretted having the counsel test her. The process was lengthy, and the barbarian in him wanted to make his own choices. Now. At least the banquet would offer a needed distraction. As he silently brushed Vana’s silky hair, he wondered how she would take the proceedings. Tonight they would celebrate the first of the weddings. � � Chapter 4 � Vana felt like living flame. Dagon hadn’t felt she was dressed enough, so he’d sent Keg to fetch earrings, a glittering necklace and two wrist bracelets for her. Now she wore enough gems to rival a princess, and only a fool would doubt what role she was being primed for. No other woman of the harem wore gems like her, though a fortune must have been spent providing clothes for them. But what Vana had been given went beyond comfort. She doubted even her new status as the prince’s new mother would have landed her in such luxury. She slid a look at Dagon. He knew what he was doing, dressing her so richly, placing his gems upon her, though she hadn’t figured it out until it was too late. The way he looked at her, the way he kissed�Śthose weren’t figments of her imagination. Over the course of several dinners, she’d learned the names of some of his people. The counsel members at the banquet looked at Dagon chidingly. Maybe they didn’t approve of her. Would it make a difference? Because if she had to marry anyone, Dagon was someone she could bear. The king of the Beasts was not a man easily thwarted. Witness the surrender of her heart. He took her hand and seated her at his right hand. No other woman ever sat there, no matter how often he visited the bride chambers. She didn’t think anyone else had ever been in his rooms. Their kiss had made all the difference. Before it, she’d still been desperately plotting to escape. Now, she wanted him. Dagon kissed her and touched her soul. She would give much more than her body when she lay with a husband. She was not prepared to give that treasure to just anyone. The kiss had affected him, too. His glances were warmer, more possessive. A new awareness shimmered around them, as heady as the taste of adoc and more tempting. As drummers assembled in the wide aisle between tables and began to pound a rhythmic call, she wished they could lose the crowd and find time alone. She wanted to talk with him and find out if her feelings were returned. Did he really want her? Deep notes vibrated up from the soles of her feet, drawing her attention to the area before them. A space had been cleared before the tables, and a line of musicians sat cross-legged before their drums, pounding a slow, steady beat. In the shadows, larger drums joined the call with solemn voices, lending a shivering bass to the music. The doors opened at the end of the banquet room, spilling forth six couples in shining robes. Scarlet, bronze and metallics in strong geometrics predominated on the men, and their robes reached below their knees, while the women’s ankle-length robes glowed in cool tones of blues, greens and purple. �śWhat’s happening?” Vana asked, watching the drummers warily. Sipping his wine, Dagon chose not to answer. The man to her right was happy to provide the answer. In his late thirties, dark haired and sharp-eyed with intelligence, his harshly angled face was not classically handsome, but it held an appealing kind of strength. �śIt’s the wedding drums you hear. Those couples are to marry tonight. �ś He looked at her with the kind of hungry interest so prevalent in the male Beast. �śWe have not been introduced. My name is Kynan.” �śVana,” she murmured in return. Wary of his blatant interest, she looked back at the couples, starting a little as she recognized Ser and Jen, the lead couple. A quick glance at Dagon shown him to be watching her calmly. Was he waiting for her reaction? A special rug had been laid down to mark the aisle where the couples walked. Jen and Ser walked to the head of it, then turned and faced each other, hands clasped. The other couples lined up behind them. Dagon rose and joined three other men already at Ser’s side. Each carried a piece of pole framework and a curtain, which they quickly raised above the couples. The drums rolled. Honored wedding guests and aids alike exchanged knowing grins. Vana sent a nervous glance at Kynan, hoping for an explanation. Grinning, he said, �śEach new husband will strive to be the last one to lower his booth. Ser is very competitive. I’ve placed my bet on him.” As the booths stayed up for long minutes, she asked in a strangled whisper, �śWhat are they doing in there?” Kynan smirked. �śWhatever they like. The wedding booths are often the start of the seduction.” His eyes heated as they slid down her in appreciation. Grateful for her bodyguards, Vana swallowed and looked back at the booths. One by one, the men inside reached out and signaled their readiness. The frameworks fell down dramatically with a few tugs, leaving the revealed couples looking rumpled―and wearing each other’s robes. The drums beat on, disguising any noise that might come from Ser’s booth. Moments slid by, lengthening the chances of Ser’s wedding going down in infamy. Finally, after even Dagon was raising a brow, Ser signaled his finish. Their curtains swished down, revealing a very flushed and rumpled looking pair, both dressed in the other’s robes. Ser’s attendants laughed and clapped their red-cheeked friend on the back, offering teasing and congratulations. Jen they kissed on the forehead, offering rakish smiles and words that made the new bride redden like a cherry. There were toasts and dancing. Vana did not see it. Adoc was served. She did not taste it. For when Dagon returned to his seat and heard Kynan quietly insisting on his right to visit Vana in the morning, Dagon said nothing. He just looked at them with a mildly interested expression and turned his attention back to the dancers as if his interest in her had never been. Betrayed, Vana stared straight ahead, then agreed to see Kynan. Obviously, she didn’t have a choice. After all, as he had reminded her, she was still unmarried, and unclaimed. Though he never said it, it was plain that he was going to check her out with an eye to changing that. And Dagon didn’t care. A dull throbbing began in the base of her throat as she sat there, unsmiling, the dust of her pretty delusions floating around her like chaff. Dagon didn’t want her. Then fury replaced pain. That jerk! If he didn’t want her, then he shouldn’t play with her emotions. She shot a fast look at him and caught an expression of hot aggression on his face, directed at Kynan. Surprised, she looked at Kynan, who was shouting encouragement to one of the grooms. The anger morphed into confusion. What was going on? � *** Dagon wanted to drag Kynan off by the hair and disembowel him. Never mind that the man was a friend. Never mind that he was just doing the counsel’s will, testing Vana to see if she could be seduced from Dagon’s side. He hated every minute of it, and as the celebration dragged on, he wanted to put an end to it. By the look on her face, Vana felt the same. Taking a deep breath, Dagon forced himself not to glare. The betrayal on her face had hurt. From her point of view, he must seem as if he’d been playing with her. It was just the sort of ugly assumption that would drive her into another man’s arms, but he’d promised not to interfere with the test. If he acted on his instincts now, Kynan would be clutching a broken jaw and Vana would be over his shoulder. So much for kingly decorum. It hurt him to hear her inviting Kynan to a picnic with her sons in the morning. Never mind that she had little choice. His brothers had been jabbering on about it, excited because she’d promised to bring all their favorite foods. Originally Dagon had planned to charm an invitation from her, but now�Śshe’d likely throw her adoc in his face if he tried. As he watched Kynan trying to charm Vana out of her foul mood, Dagon promised himself that there would be no more of this kind of testing. He also gave Kynan one day. If she didn’t allow herself to be charmed in the gardens, he wasn’t getting another chance. Let the counsel mutter�"he’d been a fool to agree to this idiocy. She wasn’t Ellyn, and he wasn’t his father. That decided, he tried to relax and enjoy the celebration. The sounds of laughter and party joy washed over him, alleviating some of his tension. Now if only he could resist the urge to crash her party in the morning long enough for Kynan to prove his point. � *** �śWow! Kynan is coming? Yay!” The twins bounced as if they’d won an hour of free shopping at Toys R Us. Apparently the man was a warrior of some fame. He’d even been elected to participate in the trials for electing the Tzar, but had declined. Vana wrinkled her nose. Big whoop. She still resented his unwanted interest. Why couldn’t he have taken a liking to that big-breasted Swede or the southern twins? Worse, she’d lost sleep wondering why Dagon had let Kynan horn in on his action. And why had he hidden his anger about it until he thought she wouldn’t see? Frustrated again, she slammed the lid shut on the picnic box and drafted the mutinous Roac to carry it from the kitchens. The other boys were already loaded down with their share of drinks, dishes and toys. From the scowl on his face, Roac hated every minute of it. Good. A new member to her Bad Mood club. Like he’d been having fun dicing veggies, anyway, she thought in grumpy satisfaction. The gardens were planted in raised beds of gray-veined red stone, and covered several acres. Flowers bloomed in every conceivable corner, and the area was littered generously with arbors and gazebos. The boys chose one formed of living tree trunks, plunking their burdens down on a polished round table cut from the cross section of a single tree. Without regard to their amazing surroundings, they immediately set up a game of tag. Vana backed away from the living canopy of pink and white blossoms to gape. Never had she seen such a beautiful spot. And the scent! At first she thought it came only from the fuchsia-like blooms, then she realized that every step she took on the mossy groundcover released a heady perfume. A closer inspection revealed tiny blue flowers among the mossy leaves. �śPretty, isn’t it?” a male voice drawled. Vana turned and frowned at Kynan. �śIt has its charms. But then, so does Earth.” He smiled at little at her barb and waved his hand at the table. Roac must have set it up and sneaked off, for he was nowhere in sight. �śShall we sit? By the vigorous way your sons are splashing in that pool, I don’t think we’ll see them for a few minutes.” A glance showed the boys hard at play in the shallow water. From the way they were splashing, they’d be lucky if any was left in the stone basin by the time they were done. Just as well. She had some things to say to her would be suitor. They’d barely seated themselves on the polished wooden seats when she demanded, �śWhat’s going on? I know Dagon was angry with you last night, and from what the boys say, you two are supposed to be friends. So why are you here with me instead of him?” His brows shot up. �śDirect, aren’t you?” She stared him down. �śI’m not in the mood to jerked around, no.” Kynan took his time selecting a slice of fruit before he spoke. �śDo you want so badly to be Tzara?” �śYou can take your titles and stick it in your craw. What I want is between me and Dagon.” A naughty smile curved half his mouth. �śThen you lust for him? From all reports, I’d thought you were still panting after a chance to run back to Earth.” Now that made her chin go up. Of course she hadn’t given up on returning�Śprobably. It depended. And she’d been busy. It wasn’t that easy to pry information from her squirmy sons. So far she was still in the dark as to exactly how she’d gotten there, let alone how she would get home. And as for using Roac to get the information she wanted�Śsomehow the opportunity hadn’t come up. Or she hadn’t wanted it to. Every time she thought about using him, a lump formed in her throat and she couldn’t do it. Maybe it made her a fool, but she was beginning to care about these people and how they felt about her. �śI tell you what,” Kynan said at her hesitation, �śI’ll make it easy for you. I’m a man of rank here. I have the means to see you returned. Lie with me, and I’ll take you home. My word on it.” Shocked, she gaped at him. He just sat there, as calm as if he hadn’t just proposed she whore for him. �śNo! Never! I don’t do that kind of thing.” Some friend. What would his buddy think? He gave a tiny shrug. �śIs it not the thing you want most in the world? To go home? What is lying with me to that? You can be free.” She didn’t want to be free. Not if it meant becoming that. �śNo. And I really wish Dagon were here make you suffer for that.” �śDo you think he would?” Serious now, there was nonetheless a mocking look in his eyes. Not about to be intimidated, she snapped with growing anger, �śThe man leaves the door open to prevent us being alone, or surrounds us with his brothers. Not a woman leaves the harem alone with a man, and partly by his orders. Yes, I do think he’d stomp you into a pile of slime if he ever heard you talk like that to me.” A wide grin split Kynan’s face as he sat back. �śI’m going to enjoy seeing you become queen. You’re more loyal to him than he deserves, but I salute you for it. I’ll be certain to tell him that you passed the test.” Test? What test? She stared at him suspiciously, wondering if he was serious, or seriously calculating. �śDid he put you up to this?” �śNo.” The way he said it invited her to ask more questions. �śWould he stop you if he knew?” His smile got wider. �śNo.” �śAre you really his friend?” �śSince our youth.” Hm. Maybe she could trust him, or maybe not. Though she was still annoyed with him, he was answering her questions, so maybe she’d be bold while she had the chance. �śEllyn claimed that women aren’t allowed to practice martial arts here. Why hasn’t he said anything to me about it?” Kynan tossed a nut in the air and swallowed it. �śNo doubt he expects the nonsense will stop once you get big with a child.” He laughed at her expression of outrage. �śBesides, did you ever think he’d allow you to get in a situation where you would have the chance to use your abilities? Meager as they are. Trust me, you pose no threat to a man who has trained since his boyhood in the art of war. In truth, he thinks your obsession is rather cute.” �śCute,” she said, deadpan. Baiting her, he said, �śAnd I think he likes what it does for your body. Why would he forbid your exercise, given that?” Grrr�ŚHostile now, she said through tight lips, �śSince you are so knowing and all-powerful, maybe you’d like to tell me how you Beasts managed to bring us here. I’ve often wondered.” Not that he would explain, but she was so angry now that she was on autopilot, demanding answers, since she didn’t have the ability to get up and attack him. At least not successfully. He jumped up. �śI’ll do better than that. I’ll show you. Boys, come here! I have something to show your mother.” It was like a dream. Vana couldn’t believe it as he led them deep into the Bride House, passing them through armed checkpoints as if he did it all the time. She kept expecting someone to stop them, to refuse to open the many doors, but it never happened. � At last they stopped at the head of a set of steel grate steps leading down to a busy laboratory. Technicians wandered everywhere, and several fully armored Beasts stood at the perimeters, guarding the area. More interesting, two stood before a huge oval frame. It pulsed with blue light, interspersed with white flashes of lightning. Vana’s pulse quickened. Kynan didn’t have to tell her what it was. Kynan looked at her and smirked, waving her ahead of him. �śGo on. You wanted so badly to see it.” Adrenaline made her shake as she slowly descended the stairs, her eyes fixed on the gate. Instinct demanded that she run and throw herself through it, but good sense kept her pace slow. They could stop her too easily. It might not even be pointed to her planet at the moment. But oh, what if it where? Hope rose up and choked her. No longer smiling, Kynan stopped before the portal and looked at her. Leisurely, he reached out and keyed in a code on the control panel next to it. The familiar golden arches of her neighborhood restaurant flashed into view. It stayed there, taunting her with the longing for the familiar. People came and went, cars drove by, all unaware of the drama taking place just out of sight. Calculating male eyes fixed on her. �śYou want it, don’t you? You’re shaking. Step through. Go on. I’ll walk in there with you. It will only cost you what I asked before.” His voice was encouraging, softly persuasive. Kind. Horror sickened the pit of her stomach as her eyes whipped to his. He still wanted to collect. He offered all this, and all it would cost her was her honor. She stared through the portal�Śand fought to remind herself of what that world also held. Cheap apartments and unfulfilling jobs. A slow death of loneliness. And somewhere, a father who had never loved her. Slowly, she straightened. Her sight was wavy with annoying moisture, but her vision had never been clearer. She glanced at her sons, whom she had forgotten until that moment. They stared back at her with solemn eyes. With a hard glance for Kynan, she said with contempt, �śYour price is too high.” Slinging an arm around each twin, she walked with dignity from the room, ignoring the shards of glass lodged in the region of her heart. � *** Dagon massaged the tension in his jaw while his counsel droned on. At times like this it was tempting to chuck the whole kingship and stalk off into the night. The last thing he wanted to do was deal with this newest problem. �śWith the way you’ve been reassuring them that they will not come to harm, it’s natural that they would start to test their limits. Your woman has set a bad example with her freedom,” Xcallion said grimly. �śNow there are others among them demanding increased rights and protesting the courting process. I say we skip this foolish testing and let Dagon make her his queen. Settling that one down will calm the rest of them.” Dagon perked up. Now this was promising. �śAbsolutely not! The girl has not begun to prove herself. We have yet to receive word on the fidelity test, and there are other issues.” Roos, another member, protested. He was usually against doing anything useful or helpful for his Tzar. It seemed to be his life’s mission to make things difficult for Dagon, maybe because one of Dagon’s dead brothers was his offspring. No doubt he resented that his son had not lived to challenge Dagon for the position. �śOh, glue your wind-hole shut, you fool,” Grimlin, the oldest consulate, ordered. �śYou’re just jiggery because the young bucks get a shot at the women and you don’t. Isn’t fair to wave all those ripe young bosoms under the boy’s nose and expect him to wait forever. The girl’s willing, or willing enough. Let him get on with things.” �śHere, here!” �śAye! Let him have her,” another voice shouted. Dagon tried to contain his pleasure. If this kept up he might have to shake Roos’ hand. The counsel door opened, and the bickering slowed as everyone turned to see the newcomer. The messenger bowed and placed a holobox on the table. At the touch of a switch, the events of the latest testing played for all to see. �śYour price is too high,” Vana said with queenly distain as she walked away, her arms around her adopted sons. The holobox stopped playing, leaving silence in its wake. Someone coughed. Dagon stared at the box. No one dared to ask him what he was thinking. Finally, he rose, one hand on the hilt of his dagger. �śWe will wed tomorrow.” It was not negotiable. �śTzar�"” Roos foolishly began. A killing look silenced the fool. �śI have had enough,” Dagon said with quiet menace. �śAnd so has she. Your tests have proved what I already knew. We will wed tomorrow. We have complied long enough.” No one else was stupid enough to stop him. Curses flew through his head as Dagon went in search of Vana. Kynan had done his job too well. He’d be lucky if Dagon didn’t eviscerate him for it. He found Vana alone in the gardens, lying on a blanket beside a still pool. She was on her stomach, and she didn’t comment as he sat down beside her. Dagon stared off into the trees. �śI don’t like your friend,” she said after a time. �śPresently, neither do I.” Silence. Then, �śYou know.” When he didn’t answer, she asked, pain in her voice, �śDid you set him up to it?” �śNot I, but I put a stop to it. There will be no more of that kind of testing. Those who started it didn’t realize how cruel it would become.” �śIt�Śhurt.” There was so much tension in her voice. Slowly, he placed his hand on her back. She flinched. He left his hand where it was. �śI know.” Slowly, he rubbed his thumb gently over her spine while searching for some way to comfort her, to show her what she had gained without mentioning himself. He wasn’t certain she would view him as a great prize just then. �śThat boy you seem fond of�"Roac. He found himself some trouble this afternoon.” She rolled over and looked at him. Dagon grimaced. �śHe and a friend of his were caught in the ducts above the women’s bathing chambers, spying on the women. More accurately, they were caught exiting. Someone had seen a loose grate and wondered about it.” Vana laughed softly. �śBoys will be boys. What did you do to them?” He grinned, liking her reaction. �śHad them stand naked in front of the women who were bathing. It seemed fair.” Smiling, she shook her head. �śI’ll bet the girls liked that. There’s a couple near his age.” She looked intently at him. �śHe is too young for a wife.” �śSome might say they are too young to be wives,” she said softly. Remembering a song he’d heard while on Earth, Dagon sang, �śStrawberry wine. Seventeen. First taste of love�Ś” and trailed off meaningfully. �śYou say one thing in your culture and do another. Don’t tell me you didn’t feel passion when you were their age. I saw the way they looked a Roac today�"they’re ready.” Vana looked down and traced the weave of the blanket. It was obvious that she had no answer to that. When his big hand covered hers, she looked up, startled. �ś Adajah mene , do you feel passion?” he whispered, raising her hand for his kiss. His lips grazed over her soft skin, caressing, making her breath come harder. �ś Adajah mene . What does that mean?” Her voice was breathy, and there was an unconscious invitation in her eyes. His tongue flicked over her skin experimentally, making them both dizzy. �ś Adajah �Śone whom I admire, or adore. Mene is�Śmore possessive. It intensifies the meaning, makes it personal,” he murmured, barely aware of what he was saying. The taste of her was electrifying, better than the finest adoc. �śIt sounds serious,” she breathed. Her lashes fluttered down as he drew closer. �śIt is�Ś” His mouth grazed hers, toyed with the softness there. So sweet�Ś A horrific crash made him jerk upright, ruining the moment. �śSorry,” Devin said sheepishly, picking up the tray and dishes he’d dropped. �śYou didn’t eat any lunch, Vana, so we thought we’d bring you some.” He nudged Keg, who was struggling with the cups and insulated ewer he’d brought. Keg looked at them hopefully, his eyes like going between the two of them like ping-pongs in a tie-breaking match. Dagon’s eyes narrowed. Then he snorted and gestured for them to set their things down and join them. �śWhere are the twins?” Devin shrugged. �śThey dropped water bladders on the head gardener. He’s making them weed his moss-trees.” Vana rolled her eyes sat up. �śIt would have been easier adopting puppies.” �śI tried to warn you,” Dagon said playfully, opening a package of sour chips that had escaped destruction. �śDaughters are supposed to be easier to rear.” She nudged him with her foot and stole a chip. �śWe’ll see if you say that when they turn into teenagers.” When he grinned at her, she looked away, coloring as she realized what she’d just implied. He liked it, but chose to let the comment pass. Instead he spent the afternoon stealing kisses when the boys ran off to investigate this or that. They were flushed from one such encounter when the children returned from chasing a furry gojo, a small creature with a croaking chirp who lived in trees. Ignoring their mischievous looks and whispered giggles, Vana gazed lazily at Dagon. �śHow did you get your scar? It looks more like sliver paint than a burn.” She touched it gently, running her fingers over the slightly pitted surface. �śIt’s an acid burn, earned in a skirmish. The �śpaint” is the remnants of quick battle doctoring. I’ve never taken the time to have it corrected with surgery. It would take too much time, and I’ve already spent too many hours at the medic’s for my liking.” He looked away, but she must have seen what he tried to hide. Vana smirked. �śYou don’t like that guy either, do you?” �śWhen you’ve spent seven weeks as a quadriplegic, endured multiple, painful surgeries only to spend months as a paraplegic, barely able sit upright, you’d hate it, too.” Even the twins had fallen silent at the reminder of that dark time. He’d come very close to losing his title. At times only fury at his own weakness had given him the strength to keep trying. �śWhat happened?” she asked softly, taking his hand. That soft touch was almost more than he could bear at that moment. �śMy ship was blown apart in a surprise attack. Ser was injured, too, but he managed to call for help. At times I wished he’d let me die there, the pain was so bad, but whenever I gave up he’s shout and curse at me until I did my exercises just to spite him. The bones are knit now, and my organs regenerated, but I still feel pain at times. A hard workout almost always leaves me hurting.” That was an understatement, but she didn’t need to know that. Not that the pain mattered�"he wasn’t about to let his body degenerate as long as he had the will to fight. Besides, the medics had assured him that he would regress if he ever slowed down. Vana didn’t say a word, just sat up and crawled into his lap, burrowing as close as humanly possible. By her ragged breathing, the tale had upset her more than he’d thought it would. Feeling awkward, for he’d never been in this position, he stroked her back. A look sent their little chaperones scampering off with the remains of their picnic. Sunset began as Dagon slowly kissed her, lowering them both to the blanket. Rules of chastity no longer mattered to him, not when she was hurting, and he had the perfect way to comfort them both. Already primed by his kisses, she accepted the further pleasure he offered willingly, moaning as he unclipped her vest and cupped her breasts. He was gentle, but it only seemed to inflame her more. Undulating beneath him, she closed her eyes and twined her fingers in his hair, silently begging for more. Yet as he pinned her there, softly exploring what she so eagerly offered, his religious training kicked in. He wanted, but couldn’t take, not without a public declaration. It was a protection for her and a point of honor for him, and he found he wanted the public ceremony, wanted the world to know that she was his forever. Even so, he was no saint. She was naked and willing, and never had he felt such softness as her sweetly peaked breasts beneath his hands. A little squeeze, and she gasped. Pinching her nipples made her moan and thrash beneath him. The touch of his tongue caused her to cry out and grip his hair, urging him on. Regretfully, he realized he’d better stop before there was no stopping. It was certain she didn’t have the will to try. For a moment he pillowed his head on the softness of her breast, promising himself that he had only this last night to wait. She’d thank him�Ś. Vana squirmed beneath him. �śWhat’s the matter? Why did you stop?” Grunting in annoyance, he sat up and reached for the clasps of her vest. �śI was trying to be honorable.” He got a dirty look for his trouble. Vana slapped his hands away and fastened her vest with hands that shook. �śIt’s rude to tease a girl, Dagon.” Out of patience with her and feeling frisky, he grabbed her and rolled over and over in the grass until they were next to the pool. He ended up on top, pinning her down as he slid his thigh between her own. �śYou want this?” he asked dangerously, giving her a little of his weight. �śOhh�Ś” It seemed she did. �śThen marry me tomorrow and you’ll get it all night.” Before the thought could inflame him further, he rolled them both into the pool. Vana shrieked as she struggled upright in the cool water, slinging it from her as she gasped for air. �śYou jerk!” She shoved him, sending him sprawling in the shallow water. Dagon laughed and got back up. �śYou were getting a little overheated.” �śMe!” �śWell, I wasn’t the one moaning,” he said unchivalrously, trying not to grin. When had he last felt so happy? �śArgh!” She grabbed the towel and stomped off, trailing water all the way. �śNow that was quite a sight,” Kynan said as he stepped from the shadow of the trees. �śDon’t worry, I was only here a minute. You won’t have to kill me.” Dagon didn’t ask why Kynan felt the need to say as much. It must have been obvious what they’d been up to. �śSwitching chaperonage with the boys?” It was the kind of thing a friend would do. �śAs night fell and they returned from the garden looking solemn, it seemed the thing to do,” Kynan agreed. He looked over Dagon’s head and tapped his fingers on his thigh. �śDo you require an apology for this morning, or should I consider it all in the line of duty?” He met Dagon’s gaze. �śI did not enjoy hurting her, even for you.” �śFor the counsel, you mean.” �śYou know I’ve never minded them. It’s the reason I refused to fight to be Tzar. Who wants to deal with a pack of bitter old women?” His gaze silently asked if all was right between them. After a tense moment, Dagon nodded. Kynan was a consummate actor, which was why he’d been chosen for the job, but he was not cruel by nature. What he’d done, he’d done for Dagon, and maybe, for Vana. Time would tell. Relaxing back into his careless persona, Kynan asked, �śSo, does this mean that I get to help man your wedding booth?” Dagon laughed and slapped him on the back. �śOnly if you promise to bet on me. I mean to break Ser’s record.” �śYou always were a competitive one.” Kynan winked. �śBut I think I will remove myself from your lady’s sight until tomorrow�"she’s wroth with me just now. Besides, I’ve yet see the Earth collection point, and thought I’d take a look. None of the women here seem promising.” Dagon raised a brow. �śOut of a thousand woman, with more added daily, you haven’t found one to interest you? Perhaps you should spend more time with them. Surely there’s at least one in there to suit you. You do have seniority.” Kynan shook his head. �śNot in that bunch. I know what I’m looking for. Five minutes with the right woman, and I’ll know.” � ** Kelsa Gram slammed her palms down on the reception desk and leaned forward, pinning the man behind it with a hard stare. �śListen up, desk jockey! My friend Vana has been here for weeks now, and not one phone call. Even prisoners get that much. I will see her, and I will see her now, or I’ll come back with a lawyer and slam your little cult. Do we have an understanding?” She was fighting mad. She’s been suspicious of the academy thing from the first, and research hadn’t reassured her. Maybe she ought to have brought backup, and that was plan B. If these guys didn’t let her see Vana, then she was bringing down the big guns, because she was very afraid that something bad had happened to her friend. Just so the stony faced jerk behind the counter didn’t think she was easy prey, she added, �śAnd you’d better hurry up. I told my brother that I was meeting him for lunch, and he’ll come looking for me it I don’t show. He’s a senator, you know.” He wasn’t, nor did her brother care what happened to her. He was usually too high to even find his own butt, at least when he wasn’t in prison. But this schmuck didn’t have to know that. �śIs there a problem, Alsike?” Kelsa turned to blast the intruder and forgot to speak. Whoa! She hadn’t seen anything that good looking since Highlander. In his late thirties, dark haired and sharp-eyed with intelligence, his sharply angled face was cut just the way she liked it�"manly, without a trace of pretty boy in it. Jaded, she wondered which of his body parts was pieced, branded, tattooed or otherwise mauled. Or, God forbid, maybe he had a boyfriend. Luck had never been with her when it came to men. Her first boyfriend had been kinky, and she hadn’t realized it until they’d been in bed, about to pop her cherry, and she’d finally admitted her virginity. He’d gotten all excited and wanted to tie her up and spank her to �śdo it right”. She shuddered at the memory. Worse, the second time she’d actually made it with a car salesman�"hey, at least he’d had a steady job. He’d casually rolled out of bed afterwards and walked off like she’d been a cheap trick. Even worse, the sex hadn’t been anything to get excited about, even before the hurting part. Looking back, she couldn’t believe that she’d been so anxious to be like the rest of the popular pack that she’d wasted herself on a guy who couldn’t care less. No pleasure�"if there was any to be had�"was worth that. Let the guys think she was frigid. It would really take a burning passion before she’d be willing to risk being humiliated again. There was also that soft, hidden part of her that hoped for a little bit more. She’d really hoped that Vana would break the streak of bad luck for both of them. Speaking of which�Ś. Kelsa gave the suspected pervert her coldest look. �śI’m here to see my friend Vana Clue, and I’m not backing down until I do.” A slight smile lingered at his mouth as his midnight blue eyes took her measure. �śI see. Did you plan to do a room-by-room search? I warn you, the men’s showers might be a little more than you can handle.” He spoke with an odd accent, something she’d never heard before. Incensed, she glanced down him, looking for a nametag. Surprisingly, he wasn’t even dressed in the military outfits of the other men on the grounds and in the building. Instead he wore a studded brown vest with a Chinese collar, brown leather pants with panels of dark leather, laces up the calf and decorative metal studs. Matching brown boots, also inset with metal, completed the outfit. On his left hand was a metal cuff, which he glanced at, his eyes moving as if he were reading something. Before she could blast him, he glanced at the desk clerk. �śYou ran her identification through the system?” The clerk nodded. �śShe is unencumbered. Would you like to give her the tour?” The note of spitefulness in the clerk’s tone made Kelsa’s hackles rise. This was not good. �śMaybe I’ll just come back with my brother.” And about a zillion cops. She spun on her heels and took three quick steps. A large hand clamped down on her shoulder. �śSmart, Miss Gram, but far too late. I’m afraid I’m going to have to take you to see your friend after all.” � ** Kelsa woke in an unfamiliar pair of arms. Slightly woozy, she struggled, using her elbows to make her wishes known. Obligingly, her carrier set her down, holding her shoulders as she wobbled. They were in some sort of science lab. An army of technicians swarmed over the machinery, and beyond them�" Kelsa stiffened and stared. A good dozen beast-headed soldiers, all armed, ringed the room. �śHave I dropped into the middle of Stargate, or is this the kimchee coming back to haunt me?” she whispered. �śAre you talking about that gate?” The man behind her turned her around. She almost fell. Before her was a glowing blue gate pulsing with light. Full of dread, she slowly glanced over her shoulder, staring at the man in brown leather. She moved her lips, but no words came out. He sent her a cocky smile, loaded with amusement. �śCongratulations, you’re on another planet. Yes, your friend is here, and yes, I’ll take you to her. Though�Ś.” His eyes swept over her. �śMaybe we’ll take a little detour first.” �śTry it, buddy, and I’ll rip it off. I’m no quivering virgin to be scared out of my mind by the thought of unpleasant sex.” That was a lie, but she got mouthier the more afraid she became. It made her burn that he would threaten her, but hey, whatever he planned couldn’t be worse than Harry, the car salesman, had put her through. It made her angry to be proved right�"he was just another jerk after all. �śI won’t hold it against you,” he said smoothly, crossing his arms. �śAt least I know you like it.” �śThat’s debatable,” she snapped, risking a quick glance at the doorway. Maybe�Ś. �śI’m afraid not.” He took her arm again, guiding her unwilling self toward the steel stairs. �śHow about I deposit you someplace comfortable, then go tell your friend you’re here? I’m sure she’ll be glad to see you. By the way, I’m Kynan.” �śConan? How appropriate. You look like a barbarian to me.” Apparently even shock had no effect on her smart mouth. They were halfway up the stairs when another man ran up to the base, calling, �śWait! Honored Kynan, we can’t let her out of here without an exam.” Kynan considered her. �śDo you have any diseases we should know about, little bird?” �śTerminal PMS,” she shot back, disliking the nickname. Brows raised, he considered her a moment, then reversed his direction. �śI hope it’s curable. I’d hate to send you back.” He tweaked one of her short blond curls. She hit him. The perpetual amusement faded from him. A predator looked out through his eyes. �śCareful, small one. I’m a pleasant man, but I do not tolerate being struck.” Reminded that he was bigger, and by the look in his eye, meaner, than she’d ever hope to be, she subsided. Her rebellious tongue couldn’t resist a parting shot, though. �śI don’t take well to captivity, and I hate having my hair pulled.” �śTugged,” he corrected, �śand I’ll make you a deal. You may retaliate�"in kind. If I tug your hair, you may tug mine. If you can reach it.” He smirked, for her head hit him at his chest. He had to be at least 6”4. Without waiting for her reply, he took her arm and led her into a room off the main chamber. A solemn technician greeted them and gestured for Kelsa to have a seat on an examining table. She balked. Kynan picked her up and deposited her rump on top. Intimidated despite herself, she divided her suspicious glare between her tormenter and the technician, who waved a scanner thing in her direction. He checked the readout, his brows knit together. �śWell, she’s not pure, but according to this, she can’t have mated more than once or twice.” Her jaw dropped. �śHow dare you! That’s nobody’s business!” Ignoring her as if she were all of three years old, the man went on, �śStill, I can’t take responsibility for this.” He looked at Kynan hopefully. �śWe could always do a mind wipe and send her back.” There was a little gasp of horror from the patient. Kynan sent her a look of amusement tinged with compassion. �śLet’s not. No telling what the drugs would do to an alien. I’ll assume responsibility for her. Any other concerns?” The medic shrugged and made some notes. �śShe’s healthy. If you’ll just sign here, you can be on your way.” Made mute by embarrassment, Kelsa allowed herself to be fast-walked from the examining room. This place was barbaric! What would they do next, strip her naked and set her up for auction? Kynan caught her before she could break for the gate. Holding her trembling body, he said softly, �śEasy. No one’s going to hurt you. In a few minutes you’ll see Vana, and she can reassure you.” Vana. Nodding grimly, Kelsa jerked out of his arms and stalked up the stairs. She just hoped the nightmare wasn’t about to get worse. � *** Vana blinked as Kelsa walked into her room, closely guarded by Kynan. By the aggrieved expression on Kelsa’s face, it was obvious they were not getting along. �śKelsa! What�"” Uncertain whether to be thrilled to see her friend or concerned about how she came to be there, she started forward. Kelsa wrapped her in a frantic hug. �śAre you all right?” �śOf course, but�"” Holding her away with urgent hands, Kelsa scanned her face. �śNo, I mean are you all right?” Did anyone hurt you? Hearing the silent question, Vana gripped Kelsa’s hands reassuringly. �śI’m fine, really. Nobody would dare hurt me.” Peering at her, Kelsa demanded, �śWhy?” A little blankly, Vana looked to Kynan for help, only to find that he’d retreated and shut the door behind him. �śIt’s complicated. But for one thing, I’m going to marry the king here�Ś.” she trailed off at Kelsa’s sickly expression. �śAre you nuts?” She began to pace. �śNo way! No. We are getting out of here and finding a way back home. I don’t know what they’ve done to you�"” �śThey haven’t done anything.” �śSome kind of mind control or�Śor something.” Trying for patience, Vana shook her head. �śKelsa, I’m in love.” Unimpressed, Kelsa shook her finger at her. �śI’ve heard of this. It’s called the Stockholm syndrome or something, isn’t it? Where you fall in love with your jailer? Don’t worry, as soon as I get you home, you’ll get over it.” �śI don’t want to go home. There’s no way home.” Vana was getting irritated, for a fearful part of her was waking up and clambering that maybe Kelsa was right. Going stock-still, Kelsa stared at her. �śHow can you be in love? You haven’t been gone that long.” Letting out a quivering breath, Vana nodded. �śTrue, but I am. It just happened.” Eyes narrowed, Kelsa grilled her. �śWhat’s he done to prove his love?” Caught, Vana bit her lip. �śWell�Śhe wants to marry me.” �śAnd?” The girl was merciless. �śHe’s told you he loves you?” Crushed under that hard stare, Vana dropped her eyes. �śNot in so many words.” Kelsa began to pace. �śWhy did they bring you here?” Hating the truth, Vana admitted softly, �śThey have a woman shortage.” The truth she’d been trying to ignore flashed before her eyes, taunting her. �śThey needed wives,” she whispered. Pain and compassion shimmered in Kelsa’s eyes as she came and placed a gentle hand on Vana’s shoulder. �śWell, their shortage is about to get worse, by two. They never should have taken you, Vana.” � � Chapter 5 � �śYou what?” Dagon couldn’t believe his ears. Vana was refusing to marry him. Looking as if she’d been sobbing all night, she lifted her determined face toward him. �śYou don’t love me. There’s only one thing you want from this marriage, and you can get that anywhere.” The few people who had been in the room scattered, unwilling to witness the fallout. Dagon stiffened. Before he spoke, he made himself think. She hadn’t been this way yesterday. Yesterday Kynan had brought that woman. He’d bet a fortune that they’d been up all night, talking. Apparently, about him. He made the mistake of saying so. �śWhere is your friend, the traitor?” Bristling like a wild animal with threatened young, Vana snapped, �śDon’t you touch her! It’s not her fault that you have no feelings for me.” Carefully, he ground out through a stiff jaw, �śI have feelings for you.” �śYou don’t love me!” His mood got blacker. What did she expect him to say to that? �śYou’ll be my queen, won’t you? You’ll have my honor, my fidelity�"” �śBut not your love.” The broken way she said made his heart twist. �śYou don’t know what time will bring.” She turned her back to him. �śI want to go home.” A soft growl rumbled from the back of his throat. �śGuards!” he shouted, louder than needed. �śTake the lady back to her room. And bring me Kynan!” He had some choice words to say to his good friend. � Kynan blinked at him. �śYou seem to have a problem.” Dagon sent him a murderous look. He sighed. �śI couldn’t leave her there, man. She threatened to come back with others. You’ve said yourself that the operation is closing down now. We’re drawing too much interest.” �śThat doesn’t solve my immediate problem,” Dagon said coldly, with a commanding stare. Kynan half-smiled. �śI’ll take your problem in hand, then. At least she has spirit. I was beginning to wonder if you’d found the only woman who had any.” �śJust get the woman under control before I have her gagged and sent to Nikon. And keep her away from Vana! I’ll have enough trouble bringing her out of her snit without her �śfriend” undoing my efforts.” Kynan regarded him thoughtfully. �śIt’s possible she would have been less susceptible to damage if you’d courted her more. This might even be an opportunity to cement her affection.” �śI don’t need advice on how to win my own woman.” �śAs you wish.” Kynan shrugged and made for the door. �śYou have my best wishes, just the same.” � �śI say we take a hostage. It’s the only way.” Vana listened to Kelsa talk and kept her mouth shut. The other women in the harem, those known as troublemakers by the Beasts, hadn’t wanted to include Vana in their talks, but Kelsa was a fast talker. She’d insisted that Dagon’s interest in Vana was not returned. The others had recognized a fellow malcontent when they saw one and grudgingly accepted. Cherry, the most persistent griper, scowled. �śHow do you suggest we do that? They’re twice our size and armed to the teeth.” Clarissa, the chief troublemaker, shot Cherry a quelling stare. �śSo we don’t tell them we’re going to do it. Anybody can be taken by surprise.” �śHave you seen them workout?” Vana said slowly, not liking this plan for reasons she didn’t care to dwell on. �śThey’re dangerous, and fast. Experienced, too, since they’ve been making war on Nikon and his bunch for a long time. It won’t be easy.” Clearly unwilling to take anything Vana had to say as gospel, Clarissa stared her displeasure. �śWe can do anything we put our minds to. There are men wandering in here all the time. All we have to do is grab one when there aren’t others around to help. Then we tie him up and use him to get out of here.” Barely resisting the urge to roll her eyes, Vana looked away. They didn’t need her to jinx their work; with plans like that they’d fail on their own. She frowned at herself as she realized what she’d been thinking. When had she switched sides? For while she wouldn’t betray these women’s plans�"what passed for plans, anyway�"she didn’t want to help them escape, either. Had she really come to feel that the Beast’s world offered so much? It dawned on her that she didn’t want to leave. True, Dagon hadn’t exactly courted her, but her instincts said he felt something for her. That had to count for something. Maybe she should talk to him, give him another chance�" �śStop mooning!” Kelsa hissed in her ear. �śHe’s no good for you. We’ll go home and find you a nice lawyer.” Vana gave her the evil eye. She didn’t want a lawyer! Kelsa frowned at her, then addressed her cohorts. �śLook, I’ll be back later. I’ve got something to do.” She took Vana’s arm and half drug her out of the room. �śYou need something constructive to do,” she said with a worried look. �śDidn’t you tell me that creepy Dagon had given you a lab to work in? Weren’t you supposed to fix his women’s fertility?” �śHe’s not creepy,” Vana answered testily, even as Kelsa steered her toward the lab she’d showed her. Shivering, Kelsa shook her head. �śGave me the creeps. How can you stand that scar? It makes him look like some convict from death row.” That earned her a black look. �śHe’s good looking and you know it.” �śTo each her own.” They arrived at the lab and Kelsa opened the door. �śNow be a good girl and go save the world while I deal with the other things. You know you’re dying to outsmart that bonehead medic. Besides, I know how you are. Once you’ve got a book in front of you, you don’t see anything else. It’ll be good for you�"get your mind off what ails you.” Vana favored her with a droll look, but entered the lab. Relieved, Kelsa ignored her guards and turned back toward the harem. While she loved Vana like a sister, she didn’t need her lovesick friend wreaking the plans she was making with the others. She had a feeling that Vana would balk at some of the more nefarious measures they might use. For her own good, Vana needed to otherwise occupied. Determined, Kelsa lengthened her stride, eager to get to the harem. � Vana sat down at a computer terminal and began to read the translated texts on Beast fertility. She’d been over several copies of the history of the war and the fertility virus and was working her way through gestation and health texts in her spare time, putting together the puzzle pieces of who, what, where and how. It wasn’t bugs, but it fascinated her all the same. Due to the enormous volume of research on the issue, she did a lot of skimming. The Beasts had tackled their problem from several interesting angles, but she had the feeling they were making it too difficult. She was reminded of scurvy and pellagra, two deadly diseases from Earth’s past that turned out to be simple deficiency diseases. The doctors at the time had been stumped, trying all kinds of dangerous medicines to treat what had turned out to be curable by a simple change of diet. The papers looking into that subject were scanty to non-existent, so that was where she focused her efforts. Kelsa had been right�"Vana never noticed the passage of time when she was taking notes and dissecting a mystery. She ignored her belly’s grumbling for lunch, more interested in the pictures of the virus and scans of dead eggs. It wasn’t until Dagon knocked on the door and entered that she realized it was past dinner. Still in a fog, she blinked at him. �śYes?” His expression was inscrutable. �śYou missed dinner.” She glanced at her wrist unit. �śHm.” Annoyance crossed his face. �śWhy didn’t you have something sent to you?” Assuming he knew that the same way he knew everything she did, she shrugged. �śI was busy.” His sigh was half growl. �śCome and eat, then.” He glanced at her computer screen and raised a brow. �śYour research isn’t urgent.” Now that ticked her off. Flicking off the computer, she rose and said acidly, �śHow is it you automatically assume that what I’m doing isn’t important? Just because you don’t care, it doesn’t mean that I don’t.” He was in her way, so she moved around him to the door. Silence radiated behind her, but he followed. Once in the hall, she noticed that he’d dismissed her guards. Pity she couldn’t do the same. �śHas it occurred to you that we might not be immune to this little virus of yours? What happens if someone decides to drop a canister full of it into the harem, for example? It would kind of ruin your plan.” �śNo one would be that stupid,” he said with such savagery that she checked. While she stared at him, he went on same chilling tone, �śYou are carefully guarded for just that reason. Anyone who tried such a thing would die a painful death.” He took a deep breath and looked ahead as he started walking. �śBesides, no one from the other side would risk it, either. I’m more worried about Nikon staging a raid.” Reluctant to prod his temper, she nonetheless said, �śI think I’ll complete my research anyway. Just for my peace of mind.” She recognized their hallway and was surprised when he passed her room and opened the door to his. �śWhat’s this? Didn’t you eat?” �śI’ll keep you company.” He remained where he was until she warily entered�"then he shut the door. Vana eyed it. �śIsn’t that against the rules?” �śI doubt anyone will break it down,” he answered with a faintly challenging air. �śYou can always scream if I try to eat you.” Rolling her eyes, she followed his silent invitation and sat down at his low table. While he reclined, she filled her plate and tried to ignore the silence. He was going to talk. Being fair minded, she’d listen and try to ignore the tension between them. �śTell me about your mother. What was she like?” Surprised at his opening question, she answered easily enough. �śShe was quiet. Loved to sing and cook. She made the best lasagna�ŚI could never eat enough.” Slowly, he drew her out, asking what her childhood was like, how she’d liked school, what her favorite things were. After a while she turned the questions around, probing into his past. He made light of it. �śI had my father and brothers. We played sports when they were home and exchanged war stories. I was happy enough.” She ran a finger over the polished wood of his table. �śBut your life wasn’t perfect, for all you became king.” Dagon propped his head on his fist. �śNo one’s life is perfect. I�Śm hopeful of the future, however.” Left unspoken was his expectation that she would be in it. �śAre you in love, Dagon?” A risky question, but one she needed an answer to. �śYou’ll notice there’s a shortage of women around here. I haven’t much practice with the emotion,” he said mildly. �śIf you’re asking if I’ll be faithful, the answer is yes. You’ll not be mistreated and I will provide for you, as you have seen. I may not always grant your desires, but I will consider your wishes before making decisions that affect us both. Is that not fair?” Very fair�Śif they were talking about a business deal. �śI think you know what I’m looking for,” she said slowly, searching his expression for a clue to his thoughts. Determination glowed in his eyes as he rose and joined her on her side of the table. Dropping down to the cushions, he considered her lips. �śI can promise passion, if that’s a concern.” He took her lips leisurely, like one familiar with the terrain and sure of his welcome. A slow burn spread through their veins, fanned at his command. �śMy desire will never die.” She inched back, trying to breathe. �śAll desire dies if it is not fed with tenderness. I could have had raw passion before if that’s all I needed.” �śSo could have I. Your sister Earth girls are easy with their bodies. It was offered. I declined. I told you once that I desired only one woman�"one who wanted only me.” He stroked her throat with the backs of his fingers and lowered his head. �śBe that woman.” Claiming her mouth, he kissed her until her wits had flown and her will melted. How could she resist such a tender invitation? Such a hot demand�Ś. Trying one more time, she pushed him back, managing to clear a bare three inches of space between them. �śI want love first.” Closing his eyes like a man in pain, Dagon flopped down on his back. �śImpossible wench.” He waved an imperious hand in clear dismissal. Vana couldn’t help but grin, though she was smart enough not to let him see it. She stood up. �śIf it helps, I’m halfway there already,” she said, in charity with her adversary. His hand shot out and gripped her ankle. Half indignant, half desperate, he demanded, �śThen why are we having this conversation?” �śBecause you’re not�Śhalfway there, that is.” She shook him off and left, his heartfelt groan sounding behind her. Closing his eyes, Dagon lay back and tried to clear his sluggish head. Desire made it difficult to think, and frustration wasn’t helping. Did he love her? Who knew? He definitely wanted her, if that counted for anything. Apparently it didn’t, in her book. So how could he convince her that he cared? It galled him, but he needed a woman’s advice. His mother was out, but whom else did he know? A thought made his eyes spark, and he rose up with sudden purpose. Perhaps Ser’s wife would have the answer. � Ser answered the door looking rumpled and sleepy eyed. Since it was still early in the evening, Dagon had a good suspicion why. He didn’t waste any time. Tight lipped, he demanded of Ser, �śHow do you make a woman fall in love with you?” Blinking in confusion, Ser stepped back as Dagon entered his room. �śEr, come again?” �śWho is it, Ser?” a husky voice came from the bedroom. Jen appeared, wearing her wedding robe and looking decidedly mussed. Uncomfortably reminded of what he’d like to be doing, Dagon asked her gruffly, �śHow did you know Ser loved you?” Bewilderment creased her brow as she looked helplessly at Ser. With a sigh, he closed the door and joined his wife, wrapping an arm around her as they sat on the couch. �śHe’s having women trouble, my love.” �śOh. I like Vana,” Jen said mildly. Irked at the way Ser was toying with Jen’s hair, Dagon took a seat, saying impatiently, �śYes, we all like her. But how do I make her my wife?” Though he’d been busy going about his husbandly duties and therefore out of the information loop, Ser had a good idea of what he was talking about. �śChase her around. Spend time with her.” �śI have duties,” Dagon reminded him. �śI can’t spend every hour of the day with her.” He looked at Jen, snuggled by his best friend’s side. �śWhy did you marry Ser?” Delicate pink stained her fair cheeks. �śI loved him, Tsar. He made me feel special.” �śHow?” She looked softly at Ser, who kissed her hair. �śHe spent time with me, made me feel good. I knew he would take care of me.” �śShe knows I would protect her,” Dagon countered, mulling over the rest of Jen’s words. �śIt takes more than that,” Jen insisted. �śShe needs to feel that you will only do those things for her. She doesn’t want to be qualified to be your wife.” She frowned at Ser as if reliving an old discussion. �śShe wants to be special, as if you’d chose her over the most beautiful women in the world.” Dagon raised a brow. �śI have.” She huffed in exasperation. �śTsar�Ś.” He raised a hand. �śI understand. I can make her feel specially chosen. Thank you for your time. I’ll leave you to your�Śrest.” Jen blinked as the door closed behind him. �śIs he always this abrupt?” Leering, Ser leaned forward and nuzzled her neck. �śI think he’s uncomfortable knowing that I’m getting what he isn’t.” �śSer!” her protest ended on a giggle, then a breathless moan. �śDo you think he’ll win her?” A sexy laugh answered her as he laid her back against the couch. �śHe will if he makes her feel like this�Ś.” � � Chapter 6 � �śThe work day is over,” Dagon said as he entered Vana’s lab. �śSave your programs�"I have dinner waiting.” Vana wasn’t surprised. He’d sent lunch, too, along with the gift of a silver basin on an ornate wrought metal base. Enameled flowers decorated it and the silver pitcher that fit inside. It was lovely, if an odd gift. �śThank you for the present.” To her surprise, he winked. �śI’ll have it brought along so you can decide where to put it.” Guiding her with a light hand at the small of her back, he led her through the hallways and to a central courtyard she�Śd never seen. In the twilight, flower shaped lamps on poles spouted flame, illuminating the fragrant hedges and fruit trees. A night bird sang softly in the trees, accompanying the tinkling fountain in front of a table for two. Diamonds of flame dotted the velvet black sky, lending atmosphere to the warm evening. A divan had been set up to one side, inviting an after-diner nap before a tulip shaped firebox. �śDo you like it?” Breathless, Vana smiled at him. �śIt’s beautiful! I love it.” Pleasure lit his smile. �śIt’s yours. This will be your private sanctuary from now on.” He stroked her cheek with the backs of his fingers. �śI’m pleased you like it.” �śYou’re giving me a garden?” How novel, and incredibly touching that he’d gone through all the trouble. Maybe there was a soft spot in him after all. �śI don’t know what to say. Thank you.” �śThat was all I hoped for,” he said smoothly, leading her to the table. He pulled out her chair, then took his seat as a servant poured drinks and another set a tray of spiced meat aflame. Vana laughed in delight and gladly accepted a serving of the still sizzling dish. �śOh, this is good. I think you’re trying to make me tipsy,” she commented, trying a sip of the alcoholic slushy. �śIs the fruit salad spiked, too?” Dagon laughed. �śThere are more efficient ways to intoxicate you, if that’s what I wished.” He looked meaningfully at her lips. She wagged a finger at him. �śThat would be cheating.” �śThis is one realm where I write my own rules,” he countered, offering her a bite of nut-crusted seafood. When her eyes widened in surprised delight, he said, �śIt’s made from the same nut that makes adoc. I thought you’d like it.” �śYou thought right. Thank you.” He regarded her thoughtfully. �śDo you remember your words regarding judging women by a trail of peers?” �śYes. Somebody needs to. You can’t let them just get away with murder.” �śI thought you’d feel that way. That’s why I’ve appointed a new women’s justice�"you.” �śWhat!” �śWho is better qualified? You’re well educated, compassionate and levelheaded. It’s a position well suited to a future Tzara.” His theory had so many holes in it that she hardly knew where to start. �śI’m not your Tzara!” �śYou will be.” Implacable purpose gave his tone steel. It was clear what future he’d decided on. Unnerved, she chose not to rock that boat further. �śI haven’t been to law school.” �śI will gladly teach you our laws. It will be�Śquality time, don’t you think?” His eyes twinkled. Oh, that sounded like fun. Hurrah, hurrah. �śI might be the most terrible judge there ever was, for all you know. I’m not willing to risk it.” �śI’m Tsar. I can always replace you. Besides, my counsel and I will serve as your advisers. I’m not turning you loose completely uncensored.” Effectively hamstrung, she slumped in her chair. �śI was really quite happy with my research.” Dagon toasted her with his drink. �śWelcome to leadership.” In spite of her annoyance, he coaxed her onto the couch to watch the stars, pointing out the unfamiliar constellations and planets. He told her the name of the night bird and fetched a fragrant flower for her hair. The servants had long since left, taking the dinner trays with them. Dagon traced her cheek with the flower. �śYou are the last woman I will ever lie in this garden with.” It was so poignant, so achingly final, that her heart ticked in alarm. �śWhat do you mean? Are you sick?” �śI don’t want to lie with another woman, in my garden or anywhere else,” he whispered against her lips. His lashes brushed her cheek. �śBe mine, adajah mene .” He kissed her softly. �śBe mine.” Either it was the night bird, or the stars, or the slumbering fire in his kiss, but she wanted him. Every one of Kelsa’s words flew out of her head at the feel of his hand running down her arm, twining with her fingers. Unexpected joy ignited her desire, made her kiss him back with eager passion. Needing no more encouragement, he half-covered her with his body and drove her on, murmuring enticements in her ear. It was more than she could bear. �śDagon! Oh, yes�Ś.” �śGive yourself to me,” came his whispered command. His touch moved inside the vee of her loose shirt and closed about her breast, making her arch with ecstasy. �śOffer me your body.” �śYes.” She no longer knew what she was saying, but if it kept him doing what he was doing, she was all for it. �śGood.” As suddenly as he’d started, he withdrew, leaving her burning. She gaped at him. Not again! �śWhat do you think you’re doing? Finish this!” He looked at her, breathing hard. �śI will not. Not until we’re wed.” He looked longingly down her body. �śI won’t take your innocence tonight.” Sputtering with indignation, she said, �śFine! But come back here and do something! You can’t leave me hanging like this.” The tension hurt. When he just stood there, looking unsure, she realized that he didn’t understand what she meant. She wanted to slap her forehead when she realized he’d never had a woman to practice foreplay on. Apparently her lover was an arsonist, not a fireman. Time to change that. Vana grabbed his hand and pulled his reluctant self down to the couch. �śI can’t touch you and not�"” he began, obviously trying to soothe her. It was embarrassing, but it looked as if she had to educate him. Virgin she might be, but she’d grown up in the USA. Between books, magazines and television, it was impossible to be completely innocent in that culture. She quickly kissed him quiet. �śWith your hand,” she said meaningfully, guiding his hand to the juncture of her legs. He cocked his head and caressed her experimentally through the fabric of her harem pants. Vana moaned. Then she reached for him, and Tzar Dagon learned a whole new groove. Clothes were shed in heated rush as he quickly learned just what pleased her. She tried to return the favor, but he brushed her hands away, too intent on his own exploration to let her distract him. When he parted her raised knees and just looked, Vana closed her eyes and trembled, unable to bear the erotic sight. But since he was looking�Ś.she whispered a suggestion that had him sucking in a breath. �śDo they?” Watching her intently, he gently touched her core�"then brought the damp fingers to his mouth and tasted. Moaning at the sight, Vana shut her eyes and quivered as his lips started at her knee and went on a journey that culminated in a flashover of pleasure. She twisted and squirmed, fighting to get away, fighting to ride the fire. And when he moaned against her center�Ś.the man was a born lover. It was a long, long time before he finally let her rest, slumped in his arms. �śI thank you for your suggestion,” he purred in her ear. �śI can’t wait to do it again.” Exhausted though she was, the words made her squirm with renewed sparks. �śStop,” she pleaded, unable to contemplate another round. She just couldn’t take that kind of pleasure again so soon. �śYou taste like every man’s fantasy,” he whispered, nibbling her ear. His hands started to roam again. Groaning in defeat, she turned to him. �śWhy don’t I pleasure you this time?” He gently moved her hands away. �śTomorrow, you may touch me all you wish. After we wed. I don’t trust myself now.” She tried to form words, but her brain was foggy. Had she agreed to marry him? Maybe not in so many words, but she knew he would have taken her actions at face value. �śWe need to take you inside. There will be talk enough as it is�"I won’t subject you to more.” He kissed her and pulled her sluggish self up, practically dressing her himself. They walked back to her room, where the guards at her door studiously ignored them, looking away as Dagon pulled her into a passionate kiss. �śTomorrow,” he said, half threat, half promise. Then he left her wobbling on the threshold. Unable to think straight, she watched him go, then stumbled into her room. Sprawling on her bed, she stared at nothing and tried not to shiver as she contemplated the delights the morning would bring. � �śAre you out of your mind?” Kelsa demanded. Vana closed her ears to her friend as she braided her hair and fixed her son’s beads on the ends. �śI know what I’m doing.” Kelsa paced. �śHe’ll never let you go back home now.” �śI am home.” �śDon’t say things like that! You’re creeping me out.” With a shaking hand, Kelsa pushed her bangs away from her face. �śI thought you were going to make him court you. What happened to that?” A secret smile played across Vana’s lips. �śCheck it off the list.” Taking pity on her freaked out friend, Vana crossed the room and put her arm around her. �śLook, bud. I love you. I value your advice, but this time, I need to make my own choice. Just for the record, maybe you should take a closer look at Kynan. You’re looking for a man, and he’s better than anything you’ve ever drug home.” Kelsa shuddered. �śHe’s an alien. My alien abductor, at that.” �śHow is that worse than Sam from the tattoo parlor, with all his significant parts pierced and a tattoo of a naked woman eating a hotdog on his butt?” �śAt least he was an Earthling,” Kelsa grumbled. Even she didn’t look convinced of her logic, though. �śUh, huh. Look, hon�Śwhy don’t you just let go a little? Haven’t you noticed that the newly wed women around here walk around with smiles on their faces? Jen looks radiant, and the looks she exchanges with Ser are enough to light the room on fire. Marriage can be a good thing with the right guy.” As she talked, Vana steered Kelsa out the door to her waiting escort. �śBe happy for me. I’ll see you at the ceremony.” Given no choice, Kelsa made her way to the wedding chamber, glowering all the way. Young men were setting up a table full of delicacies, one of which was the infamous adoc. Convinced it was an aphrodisiac, she’d refused to try it, blaming it for Vana’s madness. Grumbling under her breath, she frowned at the drummers lining the aisle, vowing that nobody was going to get her to march down it. Nobody showed up and claimed the spot by her side. �śHello, little bird. Enjoying the party?” Kynan looked at her with sizzling blue eyes warm with appreciation. This time he was in a sleeveless duster with gilt-edged Chinese collar over blue leather armor. Even at a wedding, the man was armed. Fighting a wash of betraying color, Kelsa kept her face averted and her lips straight. �śNo.” Helpless anger swirled through her, demanded she do something. But what could she do? This was Vana’s choice. Kynan studied her for a moment, then took her hand. �śWalk with me.” Ignoring her black expression, he took her hand guided her through the crowd, deftly avoiding anyone who looked like they wanted to chat. The moment they gained the deserted balcony, he backed her into a corner and kissed her senseless. He didn’t stop until she was dazed and boneless. Once she was limp in his arms, he pulled back and studied her face, breathing hard. �śBetter. You can’t view your best friend’s wedding with a cloud on her face.” He glanced toward the door. �śCome on, they’re about to start.” He towed her back in. Completely discomposed, Kelsa let him do it, unable to summon the wits to protest. She hadn’t known any man could kiss like that. The minute he’d kissed her, she’d taken flight, and now her heart was beating like the little bird he’d called her. How was she supposed to hold off a man who could steal her very thoughts? Suspicious, she frowned at him. Was mind melting an alien trick? He caught her look and grinned, but whatever he was about to say was drowned by the rising drumbeat, signaling the start of the wedding. � Vana’s heart beat fast as she walked solemnly down the aisle on Dagon’s arm. Anticipation made her tremble as she saw Ser, Kynan and two others holding the pieces to their wedding booth. Dagon looked at her and his eyes glowed. He took her hands as his friends assembled the booth, enclosing them in complete privacy. Without words, he slowly threaded his hands through her hair, then took her mouth in a conqueror’s kiss. He’d never really kissed her. Shivers wracked Vana’s body as she realized how different this moment was, how focused he was. He was her lord now, and he was intent on having his due. She pulled her mouth away, gasped, �śDagon!” �śIt’s expected,” he murmured, parting her robe, revealing her naked body beneath. The robe fell, leaving her fully exposed. His soon followed, forming a soft covering. He laid her down. �śD-dagon. I�ŚI’m not�Ś.” She was, but here, now? The drums swelled around them, drowning out the crowd, enveloping them in sound. �śI will pleasure my bride.” Wild desire and implacable purpose burned in Dagon’s eyes. Her lover rose above her and parted her naked thighs with one knee�"then he entered his wife. Even there, in midst of ecstasy, he was careful with her. Slick and wet with helpless passion, she was still tight, untried. He shuddered as he held back, refusing to give in, coaxing her gently until the fire consumed them both, shot them both over the edge. Vana swore that she had died, then been reborn, like the phoenix that rises from the ashes a new and bright creation. She couldn’t move, didn’t want to, and by the way he was slumped, Dagon didn’t either. Still, it was he who stirred and brought her hazily to her feet. With gentle kisses, he eased his robe onto her body, then donned hers. Then he signaled his friends to lower the booth. Massive cheers and shouts of joy met their emergence as man and wife. Vana blushed, unable to meet anyone’s eyes. Before his friends could tease them, Dagon scooped her into his arms and kissed her silly. Roars of approval met his display, then he carried her out of the room. They were halfway to his chamber when she thought to say, �śI thought we were supposed to stay?” �śYou winced,” he said between kisses. �śYou need a hot bath, not a loud party. I’ll duck in later. Besides�ŚI’m still hungry.” He entered his room and carried her to the bath. �śNot very social of you,” she teased as he filled the giant tub. �śThey’ll be relieved to know the Tzara is well and truly mine. Much will be forgiven for that.” Like a starving man, he kissed her, over and over, stripping off their clothes before sliding into the water with her. Once there, he took her again, whispering, �śI can’t stop. You are so beautiful.” �śOkay.” She couldn’t say anything else, too busy taking advantage of his helpless passion. She might be tender, but she wasn’t dead. Who could refuse such tempting adoration? Again he climaxed, holding her close as her body shuddered with release. This time he held her close, murmuring her name over and over as he stroked her back. Minutes passed, and his body stirred again. He looked at her helplessly. �ś Adajah , I’m sorry. Perhaps you should rest while I join the wedding party. My body will not be still.” Reluctantly, he withdrew, apologizing as she winced. Vana laughed. Shyly, she stroked his cheek with the back of her fingers. �śIt’s all right. You’re very sweet.” He nibbled her fingers, smiling warningly. �śDon’t get me started.” He helped her from the tub and dried her off, taking his time about it. Giggling, Vana reminded him, �śI thought you were leaving?” Disgruntled at the reminder, he reluctantly left off and carried her to the bed. �śSleep,” he told her, tucking her in. �śHeal quickly. We have a lot of time to make up for.” Still naked, he stood up, smiling at her in triumph and sweet affection�"if that was the emotion glowing in his eyes. He collected his robe and eased out the door. Vana closed her eyes and snuggled under the covers, smiling. Kelsa needed to get a clue. � *** Ever the opportunist, Kelsa snuck out through the kitchens, while all eyes had been on the ceremony. No one had to tell her what was happening after the curtains went up, though exactly what was going on within, she didn’t want to know. Since the only way to prevent getting first hand experience was to duck out now, she ran while the running was good. Luck was with her, for Kynan �śthe hawk” was busy helping with the ceremony. He’d never notice her leaving, and he’d likely be too busy celebrating to look for her right after. Too bad Vana was in the wedding booth he manned. Pangs of regret almost slowed her step, but Kelsa fought them off. Vana had made her choice. It twisted her heart to leave her here, but short of dragging her kicking and screaming, there was no way out of it. Cherry, Clarissa and a few of the others were making a break for it tonight. They were her best chance of making it out, and she had to take it. When no one was looking, she darted out the kitchen door and into a deserted side yard. As expected, there was the loose grate, right behind some prickly berry bushes. She’d discovered it by accident one day when she’d dropped a cup in the bushes. The others should have already made it to their grates�"they were supposed to meet up in the ductwork and make their way to the gateway in the center of the citadel. Vana had told her all about it�Śclosing her eyes on a wash of emotion, Kelsa wiggled the first screw loose. �śGoing somewhere?” Kelsa yelled and jumped up, dropping the big screw on the ground. �śKynan! I thought you were busy.” She tried for a disarming smile, but it came out rather sickly. He nudged the loose screw with his boot. �śSo I see.” He considered the grate. �śIt might interest you to know that there are spiders in the ductwork. We try to keep the population down, but they like to hide in the dark�"it’s good hunting for insects, you see.” Averting her eyes, Kelsa tried to look nonchalant, but she shivered. She hated spiders. �śHm.” Still looking at her with that weighted gaze, he added, �śOur citadel is huge. There are miles of ducts running through it, and all of the restricted areas have sensors. It’s odd that I should see you out here just now, considering that a group of women tripped the sensors not an hour ago. It seems they were trying to escape.” Coldness swirled in Kelsa’s belly. Clarissa had left without her. Had she been afraid that Vana would find out and tell Dagon? Did it matter now? They were both in deep kimchee. Kynan smiled coolly and gently took her hand. �śI think you should stay by my side for the rest of the night. Glued, even.” His eyes shuttered, and his voice dropped ten degrees. �śDagon will have something to say about this.” � *** Luxuriously warm, naked and sated, Vana stretched against the silky sheets, giggling when Dagon’s arm shot out and tumbled her on top of him. She considered her sleepy-eyed lover and the hard ridge under her belly. �śI don’t think I can handle another round right now.” His laugh shook them both, and he kissed her good morning. �śI can wait�Śbarely. There is tonight, and today we have things to see to.” She slumped on his chest and thought about going back to sleep. �śWhat things?” Breakfast, surely, and then maybe some more of his tasty kisses. The man made her hungry just by looking at him. �śBreakfast, definitely, and then you have a case pending. Justice never sleeps, they say. Welcome to life as a queen.” Grunting her opinion to that, she let him dump her off his chest, then snuggled into the pillows. A slap on her bare rump got her back up. �śHey!” Dagon scooped her up, grinning at her annoyed expression as he carried her to the dining cushions. Breakfast was already laid out and still steaming. She looked for her robe, unaccustomed to lazing about naked. Dagon raised a finger as she started to get up. �śStay. I like looking at you.” �śDagon! I can’t eat like this.” A hot blush flushed her body as his eyes ran unabashed over her. �śYou’ll never make it to the closet,” he warned her, �śand I might not be able to control myself if you make me chase you.” It was obvious by the quality of his smile just what her punishment would be. Naked, shy, and uncomfortably aroused, she sat up and put a large pillow in her lap, effectively blocking his view. Ignoring his rolling eyes, she grabbed her hair pick/fork and dug into her breakfast. Muttering something under his breath, Dagon joined her. Trying to ignore the way his six pack rippled and grateful that table hid the most significant part of him, she tried for a business-like air. �śSo, who am I supposed to be judging today? Did a couple of ladies get into a cat fight last night, or what?” He looked at her through his lashes, then touched a button on the table. Hair pick suspended, she stared at the holographic security recording of five women crawling through the ducts. Clarissa and Cherry she recognized, and the others were familiar. It didn’t take long for warriors to enter the ducts and flush them out. It was the second recording, that of Kelsa trying to enter the ductwork, that made her sit up, though. She looked at Dagon’s inscrutable expression. This wasn’t going to be good. �śThe counsel and I need to make an example of them. If you do not judge them, we will. I suggest you take up your authority.” A lump rose in her throat. �śI’m biased.” He studied his goblet, swirled the drink inside. �śThen you will have an interesting time pronouncing a judgment that is stiff enough to deter others from following their example. Be aware that we will overrule you if you fail.” Lovely honeymoon, she thought with disgust. She didn’t want to be a part of this�"the other women would hate her forever. Kelsa might despise her, and then where would she be? Pity all this hadn’t occurred to her when she’d taken the assignment. Judging her friends wasn’t something she was going to enjoy. � *** Later that day, robed in majestic splendor and coiffed, manicured and made up, courtesy of her private stylist, Tzara Vana T’Siantal sat on her throne and tried not to squirm. Dagon sat to her right, looking far more functional and comfortable in usual battle ready garb. He’d assured her that official appearances required full regalia, and there was nothing more official than a judgment. With time she might be able to change the prevailing fashions, but as the moment she was stuck with what the last generation of women had deemed royal garb. Oh, joy, she thought in dismay. What fool had decided a tiara of stiffened braids was sexy? Sure, it looked kind of cool with the jewels in her hair, but she was afraid to move lest the whole thing shift sideways and leave her looking like the court jester. A pompous looking counsel member entered the chamber, leading the miscreants, including Kelsa, in his wake. He bowed elaborately, then pronounced, �śYou see before you the would be runaways, your Majesties. You are aware of the details of their case, and the court hopes to hear how you’ll punish them.” He ignored his queen’s darkling look and backed to the side, into the small crowd of spectators. Kynan was there, looking inscrutable, as was Ser, though Jen was nowhere in sight. Vana envied her. She tried to make eye contact with Kelsa, to let her know she wasn’t enjoying this, but Kelsa looked glumly ahead, as if expecting to be beheaded at any moment. Vana suppressed a sigh. �śWhile I can’t view this in the same light as the counsel, I have agreed to pass a deterring judgment. Since no one was harmed in the�Śexcursion, and no property was damaged, I think we can avoid chopping off any extremities.” No one laughed, so she gave up on her attempt at humor. �śIn the eyes of this society, the servitude of women is seen as degrading, definitely a fate to shield them from at all costs. �śOn the other hand, the offenders seem to have an abundance of time on their hands to plan mischief. That being the case�ŚCherry, since you used to be a beautician, you are sentenced to the service of cutting men’s hair. Clarissa, your garment design skills will be needed to produce some clothes that might suit our Earth sisters better.” One by one, she assigned the women to occupations she thought they might enjoy, noting the relief in their faces. Had they thought she’d order them beaten? Before she could get to Kelsa, though, the men’s growing murmur of outrage drowned her out. �śSilence! One at a time,” Dagon thundered. �śYou can’t force them to work! Think of their reputations,” one man protested, aghast. �śIt’s out of the question,” another responded, looking grim. �śFar too cruel.” Vana raised her brows and waited for silence. �śAm I not just? Would you suggest taking away their favorite toys or tapping them on the hands? We are not your soft females�"Earth women thrive on just this kind of discipline.” When there were no more outbursts, she looked at Kelsa. Her heart was beating fast at the effort it took to maintain her official mask, and she knew Kelsa wouldn’t enjoy her servitude. Sometimes a friend just had to intervene, however. �śKelsa Gram, I sentence you to two weeks as Kynan Kingfriend’s personal servant. I will supervise the arrangement to make certain there is no impropriety, but you will take care of his every need, barring sharing his bed.” That brought a riot of protests, loudest among them Kelsa’s, but Vana stood firm. �śJustice has spoken.” Dagon waited until the room was cleared before smirking. �śRough justice, indeed. I’m impressed. Kynan didn’t seem to know whether to protest or gloat.” Vana grimaced. �śShe’s going to kill me.” �śEither that or thank you.” He stroked her hand, his expression warming. �śYou look hungry. Maybe we should go back to our room for an early meal.” Sparks danced in his eyes. Trying to ignore the heat he caused, she made a face. After all, he was the one who’d gotten her into this mess. �śYou couldn’t get me out of these layers.” Smirking, he helped her rise. �śTry me.” � � Chapter 7 � Kynan stared at his mutinous �śservant” thoughtfully. �śThat’s quite a look for you.” A glob of green goo dropped out of Kelsa’s hair and landed on her shoulder with a wet splat, continuing on a slow slide down her chest. Hoping to avoid him, she’d gone wandering in the garden adjacent to his rooms. There she’d discovered the zooloo bird, and its propensity for sacrificing one of its many eggs to protect its brood from interlopers. She was wearing the smelly results of its efforts with something less than pleasure. �śI need to use your shower�"right now.” Face suspiciously straight, he waved her toward the bathing chambers. �śPlease. You’re about to drip on the rug. I�Śd hate for you to have to clean it.” That earned him a dirty look. Muttering under her breath, Kelsa hurried into the bathroom and slammed the door, grateful it had a lock. She didn’t trust Kynan to not to take advantage of the situation, though he’d placed no demands on his �śservant” of yet. It might be just a matter of time. Once clean, she turned off the spray and reached for a towel, belatedly realizing she didn’t have any clean clothes to replace her smelly stuff. A knock sounded on the door. Suspicious, she opened it a crack. Kynan stuffed some clothing through the gap, making no move to try and widen it. It was a brocade, sea green robe with swirls of colorful design. Good manners got to her, and she had to admit he’d been more gentlemanly than she’d given him credit for. Properly dressed, she poked her head out the door and sought him out in the living room. �śThank you. For the robe, I mean.” She surprised an odd look on his face, one of nostalgia mixed with longing. It was quickly gone, and his eyes slid from hers. �śIt was my father’s wedding robe. You would look odd in my tunics.” Her eyes widened and her heart did a little skip. �śEr, yes. Um, mind if I use your clothes washer? I can throw in a load of your laundry while I’m at it.” She might as well, since she was technically�"temporarily�"his servant. �śFeel free, but I have no dirty clothes. It’s through there.” The washer was easy to find, but she was frowning as she threw her soiled clothes in. It shouldn’t bother her that he was a neat freak, but it did. The man needed to get a life. Why, if she lived here, the place would look like it, not like a bare bones motel room. Other than the weapons on the wall and one or two hunting trophies, the man lived like a monk. She grimaced as she recalled just how much like a monk he really was. Had the man ever been kissed before Vana�Śs wedding? He was in his thirties, in good health, tolerably good looking, and his chances of getting a date had been slim to nil�Ś. Grimacing at that train of thought, she shut the clothes washer and surveyed Kynan’s barren, pristine room. So he had a steady job�"the man kidnapped women for a living. It wasn’t much of a recommendation, and being an alien wasn’t going to boost his image. Well, they all had their problems. Shrugging off her thoughts, Kelsa went to his kitchen to rustle something to eat. While she was slicing a platter of fruit, nuts and cold meats, music started coming from the living area. Deciding Kynan must have turned on his music player, she carried the platter and a couple of frosty drinks out to him. Once there, she blinked. Kynan was the source of the music. Obviously lost, he was seated in his chair, pressing the keys of a guitar with attitude. A driving rhythm, soulful, angry and oddly tender, filled the room with haunting melody. While Kelsa couldn’t have identified the type of music, she instantly liked it. Enthralled, she quietly set the tray on the table and sat on the couch, unable to take her eyes off him. �śThat was beautiful,” she said softly as the last notes died away. �śPlay something else.” He smiled at her, a hot, roughish smile, and danced his fingers over the keys. This time he sang in that rough, smoky voice that sent chills over her skin and kisses of pleasure down her spine. Oh, he was good, and by the look in his eyes, he knew it. When he finished this time, he set the instrument down. �śI haven’t eaten,” he explained, reaching for some nuts. �śThank you.” �śYou’re welcome,” she said absently, eyeing the �śguitar”. �śI always wanted to play an instrument, growing up, but we could never afford it. Once I got older, I guess I figured it would be too hard. It’s the kind of thing you should pick up when you’re young.” Blue eyes searched her face, then he joined her on couch, setting down his fruit drink. He handed her the instrument and showed her how to hold it. �śCradle it in your arms like a lover and stroke the keys. It’s not hard.” The slumbering passion and confidence in his eyes was her undoing. �śI’m not good with that.” Flustered, she looked down blindly at the guitar, trying to quell her reaction to his nearness. The memory of their kiss fluttered between them, an invitation to deeper exploration. They knew it would be good�Ś. Kynan stroked her jaw, gently tilting her face up. �śIt’s not hard,” he said softly, a different meaning in his expression. His head moved closer. �śJust move to the music.” His kiss was soft, achingly sweet, an invitation to pleasure. Swept away, intoxicated by his scent, his taste, she let him remove the guitar, let him ease her back down on the couch. Just a little, she told herself, certain he would stop if she asked, positive she was the one in control. His weight made her moan and she hissed with desire as he settled a knee between her thighs. Sweet fire made her gasp, arching into him as if desperate for his touch. In truth she was starving, for no one had ever made her feel as he did, had ever touched her as reverently. Kynan knew the value of a woman, made her feel special, intensely desired. It went to her head. One moment she was kissing him as if he were oxygen to her flame, and the next she was encouraging him to open her robe. She knew how stupid that was, but with every nerve leaping at his touch, the warning was easy to ignore. She had to have more. �śBe mine,” he whispered in her ear, dragging his head up from feasting on her nipple. �śI cannot wait. Please have me.” He couldn’t seem to stop kissing her neck. The words rocked her. When was the last time a man had begged for her love? She moaned as one calloused hand stroked her inner thighs, lighting fires. Now was not the time for thinking. �śI�Śahh�Śokay�Ś.” The next thing she knew, Kynan was eight inches deep in her, and reality had given her a rude shake. It stung, a surprise in itself, for she had thought the pain wouldn’t happen the second time. He was shaking. �śI can’t wait.” With an anguished cry, his body jerked, then stiffened. He muttered an oath, then collapsed on her, shaking his head against her neck in self-reproach. Stunned at the speedy conclusion to her sudden madness, Kelsa tentatively pushed at his shoulder. Embarrassment was starting to set in, and all she wanted was a place to crawl off to. She cleared her throat. �śAre�Śare you done yet?” Even as she said the words, she felt his body stir within her. Oh, oh. Kynan raised his head, his blue eyes brimming with sorrow. �śI’m sorry. It was my first�"” He bit his lip. �śYou deserve better, little one. May I try again?” Tenderly, he brushed her mouth with his, kindling slumbering fires. In between kisses he murmured adoration, refusing to move within her until she arched, demanding his love. Then he took her fast, yielding to her frantic demands until they both climaxed in a blaze of glory. Kelsa Elizabeth Gram had just joined the ranks of the enemy. � *** Vana gaped at Dagon. �śNo way!” He crossed his feet and leaned back against their bedroom wall, smugly studying his nails. �śYesterday. He would have told me before now, but he was�Śoccupied.” The smirk grew wicked. Stunned, Vana sat staring at him, unable to comprehend the news that her man-hating friend had given it up to an alien warrior who reeked of masculinity. �śThey were only together one day!” Dagon shrugged, pushed away from the wall and moved to his liquor cabinet to pour a celebratory glass. �śThese things don’t take long. Kynan knew what he wanted. Obviously, he convinced her that it was what she wanted, too.” He raised his glass in salute. �śCongratulations, my love. You have the wisdom of a sage.” No, no, no. This wasn’t the way these things were supposed to go. Far from feeling celebratory, Vana felt like a failure. If she’d done her job, Kelsa wouldn’t have fallen into this trap. She knew Kelsa. Once the afterglow wore off, she would be fighting mad�"fighting being the operative word. And mad. Mad as in loco, crazy, fanatical, wild and out for blood�"Vana’s. She put a hand to her throat and stood up. �śI have to go talk to her.” As relaxed as she’d ever seen him, Dagon occupied her vacated chair and propped his feet on the hassock. �śTender my congratulations, too. In light of the circumstances, I’ve approved the marriage and waved the public ceremony. No one will doubt he’s made her his. Smart of him to get that one’s private surrender before pushing the public one.” Resenting his arrogance, dreading Kelsa’s reaction, Vana took a deep breath and let herself out. It was worse than she’d feared. The moment she walked into Kynan’s apartment, Kelsa exploded. �śTraitor!” Kelsa threw a pillow at her. Vana blocked. �śI’m sorry!” Not waiting to hear more, Kelsa grabbed the remaining cushions off the couch and threw them one by one, hurling invectives as she did so. �śYou knew this would happen! You locked me in here with him, hoping he’d get into my pants. You know what? That jerk says we’re married. I don’t even get a say! He stormed out of here in a temper when I started yelling at him. He’s mad! How dare he? I ought to castrate him.” Eyes widening at the idea of Kynan in a temper, Vana could only be glad he’d left to cool down. Smart man. Knowing it would incite her friend and figuring it would be better if she took her temper out on the safer target, Vana pointed out, �śYou could’ve said no. It sounded like you two had a heck of a first day.” With a scream of outrage, Kelsa launched herself at Vana. Vana stepped neatly out of the way, then winced as Kelsa crashed to the floor. �śCareful, you’ll hurt yourself.” With a blood chilling war cry, Kelsa grabbed for Vana’s feet. Stepping out of the way was easy, but the cushion-strewn floor was traitorous footing. Vana went down and was forced to launch Kelsa into the air as she went for her throat. The impact left Kelsa stunned. Afraid she’d hurt her, Vana climbed carefully to her feet. �śAre you okay?” This time she wasn’t dumb enough to get within grabbing distance. Glowering, Kelsa just sat there and panted. �śStupid chink acrobatics.” Knowing Kelsa only used the slur to provoke her, Vana snorted and started tossing pillows back onto the couch. �śMaybe if you’d joined me for some workouts you wouldn’t be sitting there now, only wishing you could plant one in my backside.” She took a deep breath. �śI’m sorry, Kelsa. I didn’t mean for it to work out like this.” �śYou were trying to get us together,” Kelsa said with conviction. �śYes, but I didn’t know you were so hot for him that you’d jump him first chance you got.” Kelsa blushed and protested hotly, �śI didn’t! He started it.” Vana stared pointedly at the love bite on Kelsa’s neck. Shifting guiltily, Kelsa muttered, �śHe played guitar.” Vana raised a brow. �śHe was good, all right? I let my guard down.” Sensing progress, Vana joined her on the floor. �śHe’s pretty good looking.” �śYes, and it’s not fair. I’m not ready to be a mother. What would I do with a daughter? After yesterday�Ś.” She sighed. �śMind if we move to the couch? I’m a little sore,” she mumbled. Laughing at that telling admission, Vana helped her up, then got a couple of drinks and joined her on the couch. Time for a little girl talk. � *** Hours later, Dagon found Vana in the lab. He frowned as he watched her work, a distant, abstracted look on her face. �śYou missed diner again. Care to join me?” The distance in her eyes didn’t fade as she looked at him. �śI’ve got a hot lead here. If you don’t mind, maybe you could bring me something? I might be hours yet, and you could spend the time with Kynan. He’s in hot water right now.” He opened his mouth. Her hand shot up. �śNot one word about this not being critical, all right? This is important to me, I’m close to nailing down an idea, and I don’t want to leave. Give me some space.” Drawing in a deep breath to quell his instinctive temper, he looked at her, then moved closer to look at her computer screen. �śWhat have you found?” Surprised by his interest, she eyed him. �śI took the holistic approach. I think maybe your women have been missing out on a protective element not currently supplied by their diet. This virus is engineered, but the original strain has been around for years. It’s nastier, but still vulnerable to certain factors. I need to run a few tests to support my theory, but it’s solid. I just need some time.” Her words had two meanings. He canted his head as he considered. This was important to her and their marriage was important to him. �śTake your time, then, but I will wait for you before retiring. We’ll share diner here before I go.” A softer expression replaced her cool mask. �śSounds fair.” He turned so she couldn’t see his rolling eyes. Women. � *** Vana spent long hours in the lab that week. Oddly enough, now that she wasn’t so easy to access, distractions sought her out. Her boys constantly peeked in on her, devising the flimsiest excuses to check on her doings. It finally dawned on her that they missed her, and though they made no effort to hide their disapproval of her �śweird occupation”, she learned to tolerate their peering over her shoulder and their endless, distracting questions. It was Dagon who gave her the first clue why they were so concerned. �śThey wonder how you can become pregnant when you’re not constantly by my side. They’re anxious for their sister.” He’d propped his head on one hand and smirked at her. Vana had rolled to her side and smacked his bare chest in mock irritation. It was hard to get too angry when they�Śd just spent an hour making sweet love. �śBrats! They get this stuff from you, don’t they?” A satisfied growl rumbled from his chest as he caught her hand and pressed a soft kiss to her fingertips. The kiss turned into a nibble. �śAre you certain you mind?” Dark lashes veiled his eyes as the blue began to heat. �śUm.” Reminded of his many talents, she decided not to argue the point. Perhaps the boys could find worse role models. They weren’t the only ones who treated her lab as a sort of drawing room, however. Courtiers sought her out there, too, and women with issues. The would-be escapee, Clarissa, even thanked her for her new occupation by sending over a pair of jeans and a comfortable Earth style shirt. Word had it the girl was being courted by one of her tailors. Not bad for a first shot at playing chief justice, Vana thought as she stroked the sleeve of her new t-shirt. Not bad at all. In spite of those happy moments, she finally had to warn the guards at the door not to let anyone in until after lunch barring fire or flood. At least Dagon was considerate enough not to bug her until meal times. The man had a thoughtful streak, and she was learning to appreciate his subtle care. It was with a great deal of satisfaction that she wrapped up her research two weeks later. Admiring the neat stack of printed pages, she reflected that she might not impress a board with the results, but she’d enjoyed the process. There was also the thrill of knowing she had better research than the chauvinistic medic who’d given her the implant. Speaking of which�Ś. Vana frowned and rubbed her arm, wondering if Dagon had been counting days. Maybe he was too distracted by the novelty of intimate pleasure. Maybe not. Either way, he hadn’t said anything. Surely he would, if he had the slightest clue, wouldn’t he? It wasn’t the sort of thing he would ignore. She wasn’t sure how she felt about it yet. A daughter was a big responsibility in a life suddenly deluged with accountability. She was slowly beginning to understand just what being queen meant in political terms�"many of Dagon’s people thought to influence him through her. One day she might even need her own secretary to deal with appointments and such; it was either that or allow her life to become a revolving door. How would she shield a family from that? How would she keep her daughter from feeling hemmed in by the security that would be a constant presence in her life? More importantly, would her sons view a sister as someone to protect and an object of affection, or a commodity? Shaking her head at her dismal thoughts, Vana slid her papers into a binder and gathered them up. Nine months was a long time to work on these things. She’d figure something out. She was just about to leave when something caught her eye. There was a broken vial on the workbench, right next to her slides of dead virus. Heaven and earth couldn’t have given her the clearance to work with live virus�"she hadn’t even bothered to ask. More importantly, though, she hadn’t been working with a tube with that color cap. Presentiment set in. She took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. One of the kids might have broken it and been too afraid to tell her, but why hadn’t she heard it break? She couldn’t believe it was an accident. Without looking, she reached for the com link switch on her wrist computer, then hugged the research folder tight. She might have a test subject sooner than expected. � *** Dagon paced in the waiting room, Kynan by his side. His wife, though still healthy, was in quarantine, and he didn’t dare break the seal yet. Kynan had joined him in the waiting room, offering silent support as Vana spoke calmly on the view screen, ignoring the buzzing medics. �śDagon, please trust me on this�"my research is sound. We know I’ve got the virus, and thanks to your technology, we also know it’s having a hard time adapting to my alien physiology. We’ve got a window here�Śplease go and get me some of that fruit.” Dagon glanced at the image of the Mother’s Tree in the lower left hand side of the screen. Vana claimed it was an old folk remedy for infertility with scientific roots. He didn’t have time to read her research, nor the calm to comprehend it. He knew the strength of his people’s technology and how long their scientists had been researching a possible cure. They’d claimed to have promising leads, too. He paced some more. Gently, Vana said, �śThe virus is airborne, honey. Whoever sabotaged my lab probably has more. We need to protect the others, too. What have you got to lose by trying my cure?” Unable to bear her steady gaze, he took a deep, shuddering breath. She didn’t know that sometimes the virus was fatal to mother and child. They weren’t going to tell her, either, and risk her giving up hope. �śPlease, Dagon.” Dignified, quietly hopeful, she watched him, unwilling to nag even now. She didn’t know what she asked. Kynan looked at him and straightened. �śI’ll go. I’ll find some volunteers. No!” He raised his hand, forestalling Dagon’s words. �śShe needs you here, and someone has to direct the hunt for the virus. You can’t do that if you’re charging through the swamplands, hunting for something that might not even be in season.” He shot a quick look at Vana, as if sorry he’d said that. She canted her head. �śThe bark and small twigs should have the same compounds in them as the fruit. Just be careful not to over harvest�"we’ll probably need to go back for more.” Dagon swore. The swamps were deadly, full of huge snakes and predatory flora and fauna. It was the reason their people had left its borders generations ago�"the cost in human life had been too high, and that was when they’d still had their swamp lore. In the present generation, it had all but died out. �śI will bring back the medicine,” Kynan said briskly, already on his feet. There was no fear in his continence, only determination. If anyone could survive the mission, he could. �śTen men,” Dagon said briskly. �śThere’ll be more who wish to go, but forbid it. Too many and you’ll stir the swamps too much, alerting Nikon in the bargain. We don’t need him slowing the mission. We’ll expect you in three days.” Kynan saluted and left. Dagon turned back to the view screen, the closest he could get to his wife without risking contaminating anyone else�"assuming the virus had not already spread. �śWe’ll find who did this,” he said quietly, still seething with anger and so much more. The death of a dream was painful�Śthe death of his wife would kill him. � The news of the queen’s illness sent a shockwave rippling through the city. Word of Kynan’s mission acted like counter attack missiles, fragmenting the deadly fear into action men could take. So overwhelming was the volunteer response, Kynan had to resort to casting lots to avoid quarrels. Those left behind were in danger of despair, so Dagon organized fasts and prayer vigils for the queen and their women, placing every man with the training on a sweep for any signs of the virus, organizing a quarantine for those unaffected. A hyper-alert guard rotation was stationed outside the women’s quarters, and no one without specific authorization was allowed access to them. To Kelsa’s dismay, the quarantine included her. �śKynan�Ś.” she tried to argue as he escorted her to the harem �śNo. I’ve made sure you have a view screen directly hooked up to our Tzara, but you aren’t getting close to her room and you will be staying with the harem. I’m not taking chances.” He met her worried, stubborn gaze with implacable calm. �śI’m not losing you.” Her face softened. �śI know. What about you? These swamps are supposed to be dangerous.” He stopped and faced her, ignoring their protective escort as he took her hands in his. �śI will come back. I’ll send messages when I can. Have faith in me.” Solemn, calm, he kissed the backs of her hands, then dropped a light kiss on her lips. Almost he spoke, then he seemed to change his mind. �śGo. Cheer your friend.” His mind already moving to his mission, he squeezed her hands and strode rapidly away. Kelsa sighed as a piece of her heart broke off and traveled with him. � *** �śCheckmate.” Kelsa scowled at the holographic chessboard, glowering at Vana’s smug face. �śIs not. It’s check, and you’re a brat.” She hobbled her king around her pawn, the only thing still protecting his precious hide. Vana raised her brows in mock haughtiness. �śMight as well be. What are you going to do with a measly pawn? Let your king have some dignity�"the poor guy’s been chased around by a knight and a bishop for ten minutes.” Eyes narrowed, Kelsa shifted her king to counter Vana’s move. �śI don’t hear any bonbon-challenged women singing yet.” She studied the board and blinked in surprise. A smirk of dazzling proportions curved her lips. �śWhat?” Vana eyed the board uneasily, then saw it. Against all odds, Kelsa’s little duet had danced her into a checkmate. �śHuh.” With an exaggerated sigh, Kelsa leaned back and draped her arms over the back of her chair. �śYou may now kiss the ground I walk on.” Laughing, Vana cleared the board. �śIn your dreams.” Pausing to sip her drink, she considered her friend. �śSo Kynan is rich.” Kelsa flushed. �śI didn’t even know until the harpies here started on about it.” �śThey’re not that bad.” �śYou don’t have to socialize with them. I feel kinda sorry for the wealthy guys out there�"they have no idea what’s in store for them. Now that they’ve gotten used to the idea of marrying and being waited on hand and foot for the rest of their lives, these women are rabid to find their own Daddy Big Bucks.” Vana snorted. �śReally. There are a couple of women fashioning harpoons as we speak.” �śLucky thing for Kynan he married you first, then.” The remark was far from casual, as was Vana’s intent consideration. Kelsa shifted her eyes to her own drink. �śWe didn’t do the booth thing, Van.” �śIt’s registered as a lawful marriage just the same. I saw the paperwork.” Silence stretched as Vana let that sink in before artfully changing the subject. �śSo, are you ready to be an honorary aunt?” Blinking, for not even a hint of Vana’s condition had been breezed about, Kelsa asked carefully, �śIn the hypothetical future?” �śIn about eight months.” How to answer that without blowing her �ślight and happiness” campaign? �śI’d spoil her rotten,” she answered thickly, unable to hide her surge of emotion. She couldn’t understand why Vana wasn’t falling apart. The public thought their Tzara was putting on a brave face, but Kelsa knew it wasn’t that. She really did believe her folk remedy was going to work. With a steady expression that owed nothing to acting, Vana said quietly, �śHave some faith in me, Kelsa. I did this for all of us.” Nodding in understanding, Kelsa took a deep breath and straightened her spine. �śHow about another game? Scrabble this time�"I’m getting tired of chess.” � � Chapter 8 � Kynan swore as he slashed through a tangle of vines with his machete. Two days, one dead man and thousands of trees later and they still hadn’t found Vana’s tree, much less an entire grove. The fruits were bright orange for pity’s sake�"they shouldn’t be this hard to spot, but a heavy fog had settled over the swamps, making progress difficult. Combined with the deep humidity and voracious insect life, it made for miserable work. Static crackled over his helmet. �śMan down! Celgan stepped in a nest of water lizards. Medic is on the job.” Kynan grimaced. Water lizards had a mild but swift poison, certainly enough to take a grown man down and keep him there for the better part of a day. Those unlucky enough to be bitten while traveling alone could be half-eaten before they managed to crawl away. Another point went to the swamp�"their numbers were down to eight. Glowing insects began to stir with nightfall, lighting the swamps with their luminescent wings. The mists lightened and the triple moons glowed down, turning the vine draped trees into mysterious pillars of darkness. Weary, disheartened, the men pulled out to await the dawn on the edge of the swamps. A red sunrise woke the swamp, brightening to a raucous carnival of bird song. Kynan kept his eyes fixed on the trees where the birds called their warning, his men instinctively following suit. They were not disappointed. Within minutes a group of three men in full body armor had walked out. They halted fifteen paces from Kynan’s group, their hands at their sides, pointedly not reaching for their weapons. Recognizing Nikon�Śs battle armor, Kynan tilted his head and waited. This would be interesting. �śGreetings.” Nikon studied them. In the fiery blush of sunrise, his helmet reflected red. �śRather far from home, aren’t you?” Kynan kept his peace, waiting. �śI understand your queen has a sudden craving for fruit.” The implications of that statement were not lost on Kynan’s group. Tersely, Kynan demanded, �śWhy are you here?” Slowly, Nikon reached up and removed his helmet. It was the ultimate gesture of vulnerability, and an unmistakable pledge of truth. His blond hair was cropped short, and his green eyes were flat, grim, a perfect match for his stern features. �śI may be your enemy, Kynan Kingsfriend, but I am the last man who would poison your women. Steal them, yes. Murder all hope of future generations, no. My men have collected fruit from the Mother Tree for you. I understand time is short? Accept them now, and I will collect on my debt later.” Kynan eyed him, wondering who his spies were. �śYou know who loosed the virus.” �śNo, but I know you’ve recently taken a wife. Aren’t you eager to bring her medicine? Your time is short, Kynan.” It was a warning. They needed the medicine. Now was not the time to hesitate, and though Dagon might want his head for it, his sovereign could sort it out later. Kynan had a feeling that Nikon had combed the swamp for at least ten miles and would guard every tree against interlopers. This time, Nikon had won. �śDone. I�Śll tell Dagon to expect you.” He just hoped this costly fruit worked, or Dagon was going to bury him with it. � *** Dagon spent more time on his knees in his grandfather’s chapel than he cared to admit. The small chamber was built of unassuming gray blocks with a small amount of carving around the windows and block that served as an alter. There were no images in the room or glass in the windows, but the austere chamber held majesty for all that. Generations of kings had knelt on stone floor seeking guidance, wisdom and peace, and the walls had absorbed that golden outpouring, radiating an invisible aura of divine reassurance. Odd how moments like that could make a man turn to the faith of his fathers, Dagon mused. He hadn’t made a habit of coming here, privately believing that God had abandoned his generation. The threat of extinction hadn’t made him bow, but the threat to his new family had humbled him in an instant. Dagon looked up and contemplated the ceiling. It was hard for a man to admit he couldn’t save the world. Ultimately, that honor rested in his wife’s small hands, and in the forming hands of his daughter. Men might rule the world, but women created life, made it grow within them. Without the womb there was no kingdom to govern, and a king was as useless as the next man. His knees creaked as he pushed away from the floor. Giving the alter one last nod of respect, he sought out his wife as he had every night since the quarantine, willing to face decontamination every time he left rather than let her sleep alone. In a week, perhaps, they would have the final verdict. Either the virus would have run its course or the Mother Tree would have done its job. The waiting was killing him. Kynan had brought back the fruit yesterday, along with news of Nikon’s deal. Dagon had a fair idea of what he would ask, and he wasn’t comfortable with providing it. Unfortunately, he had little choice. Honor demanded he give Nikon the same chance he’d given him. Vana wasn’t going to like it. � *** �śBottoms up.” Vana couldn’t suppress a grimace as she took a hearty sip of the Mother Tree’s juice, shuddering as it went down. Astringent, with a bitter aftertaste, the liquid had the medics all excited and the women who had to drink it grouchy. It was killing the virus and all signs said that her tiny daughter was thriving on it, but it didn’t make it taste any better. Kelsa’s image eyed her balefully from the view screen. �śYou couldn’t have found a medicine that tasted any worse, could you?” Vana raised her brows and took a deliberate sip, trying not to flinch at the taste. �śI don’t know, I think I’m actually getting used to it.” Pinching her nose, Kelsa waited a minute to kill her taste buds, then took a gulp. Shivering, she demanded nasally, �śCouldn’t the cooks add some sugar or something? I feel like I’m drinking straight vinegar�"with alum.” Vana’s mouth twitched in sympathy. �śSugar and cooking kills its active properties. The medics are trying to dehydrate it into pill form. Until then�Ś.” She raised her brows in helpless resignation and downed the rest of her drink, grateful it only took a small glass to get the desired effects. On the bright side, the orange tonic had cured her morning sickness. Grateful to have the morning ritual over with, she waved to the harem on the view screen and turned it off until Kelsa could find a private terminal. She figured the communal juice drinking would make the medicine go down easier, and so far she’d been right. Thanks to a sense of humor she’d fostered about it, they now took it as a rite of passage unique to women, one of those bonding rituals that men could never share, like PMS and childbirth. Of course, so far none of the men were complaining about being left out. Kelsa’s signal flashed on the consol, and Vana turned on the view screen. Unusually serious, she studied Vana’s face. �śHave they found out who gave you the virus yet? I think Kynan knows more than he’s telling me.” Averting her eyes, for Vana had been warned not to discuss it, especially over the public terminal, she gave the stock answer. �śThey think it was someone from Nikon’s side.” �śUh huh.” Kelsa’s brow rose. �śI think I have a better idea who it might be.” Smart enough not to say more, she merely watched Vana for clues. �śAre they going to get the death penalty? Attempted murder seems intense enough to warrant at least that.” Vana sucked in her cheeks and fiddled with her water glass. �śIt’s not up to me. As the injured party, I’m not likely to be called as an impartial judge.” �śWhat about Dagon? Will he have a say?” �śIt’s up to the counsel this time.” �śIs the suspect at least under guard?” �śIt’s being handled, Kelsa. We don’t have enough evidence yet to make a formal accusation. You’ll know as soon as everything goes public.” It wasn’t a blessing to know the details of the case, not when Dagon’s mother was the prime suspect. Dagon hadn’t been surprised at where the direction of the evidence was going. No one knew Ellyn’s moods better, and he’d known that Ellyn wouldn’t take Vana’s public insult at the adoption ceremony lightly. She held a grudge forever, and while she could act in the best interests of their people�"helping the women to settle in, initially helping to make Vana queen�"she put her personal interests ahead of any political or philanthropic instincts. Her many public indiscretions were just a sample of her willfulness, and she wouldn’t hesitate to ruin Vana’s life, uncaring of what it did to Dagon and their people. Bringing her to trial would be touchy. Dagon was determined to see her punished to the full extent of the law, but their society was staunchly conservative. He judged the odds of his counsel rendering a strong punishment as slim. It would help that women were no longer so scarce, but Ellyn was a former queen and a revered matriarch. It wasn’t going to be easy to overcome their protective instincts. �śYou can’t let her get away with it,” Kelsa said softly, voicing Vana’s thoughts. �śShe tried to kill your baby.” Vana took a deep breath. �śLet it wait. Hotheaded justice is no justice. She’s going to get what’s coming to her�ŚDagon will never rest until this is taken care of.” Sadly, she wondered if Dagon would ever be able to rest afterward, either. � *** �śLighten up, Dagon!” Kynan parried Dagon’s strike with unusual force and disengaged, panting with anger and exertion. Dagon stared at Kynan before allowing his guard to lower an inch, reluctantly recognizing his burning muscle’s need for air. �śSorry.” Shooting him a skeptical look, Kynan sheathed his sword. �śTell that to my wife after you explain why my head is no longer attached.” He moved to the side of the room and swiped up his water jug, taking a hearty swig. Sweat trickled down his throat as he brushed his wet bangs off his hair. �śCounsel being difficult?” Dagon looked away, heading for his own drink. �śAlways. I think I might have them close to seeing sense, though. Exile isn’t the answer, not for attempted genocide.” He kept his face closed, though he wanted nothing more than to destroy something. The mirrored walls of the practice room would do for a start. Kynan, who knew him better than anyone alive, sent him a slanted look and gestured toward the door. �śCome on. You need a session in the steam room, and then we’ll have some lunch.” He waited until Dagon reluctantly fell in line, then canted his head. �śCongratulations. I hear the medics are going to release your wife from quarantine in the next couple of days. That should help you burn off some tension, aye?” A reluctant smile tilted Dagon’s lips. Sleeping was all he’d been able to do with his wife in the last, eternal days, with all the monitors on her every hour of the day. It would be one less stress to be able to lie with her, sleep with her in his arms without having medics hovering in the background. He’d forgotten how vicious celibacy could be. It was more than that, though. He missed their quiet moments, the peace of knowing that she was safe at home or in her lab. The thought of her lab had his lips tightening again in anger, but that wasn’t the only thing eating him alive. Nikon had an appointment with him in five days. Dagon knew what he wanted, and he also knew how women were treated in his society. High priced, sterile prostitutes, servicing those who could pay. Nikon’s people had taken the few of their women that were left and decided they were best �śutilized” by sharing among those who could afford it. Differences like that had carved a deep chasm between their people eons ago, and he wasn’t eager to turn helpless women over to be used like whores. Even Nikon’s own mother serviced many men. That wasn’t the worst of it, though. In the absence of women, Nikon’s men had turned to each other. Though he was careful not to speak publicly about it, it was well known that Nikon opposed it, though it would cost him his kingdom to try to reform it without bringing in more women. Rumor even had it that his rule was a shaky one, growing more difficult by the day. Already he’d weathered several assassination attempts. Guarantees from him under those circumstances would be hard to accept. There was one card Dagon could play, hopefully one Nikon would recognize. He knew enough of Nikon to realize that he was not like his father or grandfather. He’d been fighting for change in a corrupt system for years now, gathering men around him who felt the same. With a leader like that, a small core of men could hold a line of defense against the whoremongers, though it would mean fighting their entire nation to keep any women Dagon might give him. If Dagon did authorize his men to steal more women from Earth for Nikon, he would demand that Nikon set himself apart and fight that war if necessary. Nothing less than a blood oath would convince him that Nikon meant to protect his women. There was, off course, one other thing he could suggest, but he had his doubts that Nikon would go for it. Men born to power were reluctant to give it up, and he couldn’t see Nikon walking away from an empire built on his ancestor’s sweat and blood. The course of a nation might be decided on their coming interview. They’d reached the locker room. Shaking off his dark thoughts, Dagon shed his clothes and followed Kynan into the steam room, praying it would help to settle him until he could hold his wife again. � *** �śCongratulations, Tzara. There’s no more trace of the virus in your system.” Vana grinned at the jubilant medic and turned, plastering a big kiss on Dagon’s relieved face. �śSee? Now the next time I want to stay up late working on a project, you’re going to cheer me on, aren’t you?” He laughed and pulled her close for a longer kiss. �śI’ll move our bed in there if I have to.” Conscious of the celebrating medics, he put his arm around her and escorted her from the room, eager to have her alone. In spite of his desire, though, he grinned proudly at the men and women lining the hallway, cheering and clapping their Tzara’s triumph. Vana laughed and waved as people threw flower petals, as teary-eyed as some of the grateful men saluting her. Though the women understood what she’d done, none of them felt it to the depths as did the men who’d been saved from extinction. To them, she’d saved their very future, and there would never be a day when she’d lack for reverence and fierce devotion. The fact that she already carried their Tzar’s daughter nearly elevated her the status of saint. Had their society not been so rigidly paternalistically religious and based on a single deity, she might even have been worshiped; their adoration was that strong. Many generations later, she would still be known as the Queen Mother, the salvation of their race. None of that mattered to Vana just then. All she wanted was Dagon in her arms, and by the dark fire in his eyes, she was going to get her wish with interest. The moment their door closed behind them, Dagon flattened her against it and devoured her mouth. His hands were everywhere, ripping fabric rather than bother with stubborn fasteners. �śDagon!” she gasped with surprise, astonished by his haste. Instead of answering, he covered her mouth with his and kissed her long and deep until she was with him again, as impatient as he. In seconds she was moaning, straining toward him, and he gave her what they both yearned for. Loosening his pants, he parted her legs and took her right there against the door, ignoring the faint rattle of the massive doors against the frame. Her moans only drove him on, and as his knees grew weak with pleasure, he wrapped her legs around him and carried her to toward the bed. They got as far the floor cushions before the heat consumed him. Giving up, he laid her down on the softness and rode her to paradise. Their journey culminated in a burst of white heat that tore cries from both their throats. Dazed by the pleasure, it was several moments before Vana could stir enough to comment weakly, �śWow. I think you missed me.” His short laugh shook both their bodies. �śWhat was your first clue?” Lazily stroking his back, she grinned against his chest as she felt his body rise for another round. �śI don’t know. I had a feeling after you shredded my clothes that�Śoh�Ś.” she arched, suddenly uninterested in banter as he flexed inside her. The second loving was longer, slower, though no less powerful. Halfway through they moved to the bed, and she lay there in the afterglow, drowsy with pleasure. �śI think I’m going to have to get sick more often, if this is the welcome home I get.” Unamused, Dagon sat up. �śDon’t say that. Don’t ever do that to me again.” The anguish on his face made her instantly sorry. Stroking his cheek, she murmured, �śI’m sorry, love. Humor helped me to get through this. I didn’t mean to upset you.” Taking a deep breathing, he nodded shortly and lay back down, gathering her tightly to his chest. �śIt’s been a nightmare, adajah . You’ve no idea�"” he swallowed. Struggling upward against his hold, she was finally able to see his glittering eyes. She cupped his face, kissing his mouth before touching her forehead to his cheek. �śForgive me for worrying you, then, love. I was scared, too.” Hidden from his view, she managed a wobbly smile. �śI knew how much I was gambling on that tree.” She winced, reminded of the nasty juice. �śI just wish the medicine was easier to swallow.” He positioned her so he could see her face. �śYou’ll take it every morning without fail. I’m thinking of making it a law.” She laughed. �śOh, the women would lynch me for that. Thanks a lot.” Dagon grunted in reluctant amusement. �śThey should kiss the ground you walk on. My men will, forever.” Smiling at the thought of sainthood, Vana snuggled back down and yawned. �śThat could get embarrassing. Tell them to stick with throwing flower petals. On second thought, nix that. The janitors won’t be happy with them, and the gardeners would have my head.” Still mulling over silly thank yous, she closed her eyes and slowly drifted into sleep. � *** Dagon broke the news about Nikon to her after she’d had a few days to relax. He wasn’t happy to see the frown that drew her brows together, but she took it more calmly than he expected. As so often happened, the discussion took place over a meal, eaten in the privacy of their room. He waited for Vana to relax and recline on the pillows around the low table, but she’d never overcome her culture’s tendency to sit upright during a meal. In lieu of that, he waited until her expression softened into tranquil enjoyment before explaining the situation. She looked at him thoughtfully as she slowly finished a piece of fruit, seemingly deep in thought. �śYou’ve obviously put a lot of effort into safeguarding any women you might put in his way. Thank you for that. I wish you’d make it a condition that he defect first, though.” �śI can’t. Such an uncompromising condition might move him to agree, only to later return to his own people out of spite. I can’t force his hand�"it must be his choice.�ś Surprised by her calm, Dagon studied her, looking for warning signs. �śYou’re not objecting to bringing more women here. Why?” She looked aside and took a deep breath. �śI don’t like it, I don’t want to see it happen, and I think it’s horrible to barter with women you’ll have to steal first. Unfortunately, I can’t stop you, can I?” She looked at him almost challengingly, anger and fierce strength simmering just under her surface. He met her gaze, his own implacable. Some things were beyond even her power to change. �śNo.” Her jaw set. �śSo I’ve learned to choose my battles. If I can’t stop you from doing this, I can at least influence you to give the women every chance for a happy life.” �śLike I gave you?” he asked softly, letting her see the deep affection and love in his eyes. The atmosphere softened, and she dropped her gaze. �śWe got lucky.” �śKynan and Kelsa were also fortunate, as were Ser and Jen. Also that blond and the chief machinist, and Adviser Patarac and his new wife, and�"” �śAll right!” Vana held up a hand to suppress his teasing, unable to stop a small laugh. �śSo there’s been one or two good matches come of your scheming. That doesn’t mean everyone you kidnap will have a happily ever after.” He speared a crispy bite of meat on the end of his food pick. �śYes, but there was no saying they’d be any happier on Earth. Besides, I thought it was every woman’s dream to be surrounded by a sea of potent men vying for their favors.” He ducked the pillow she tossed at him, laughing at her chagrined expression. �śHow would you know what women want? Did you take a survey?” she demanded, subsiding onto her pillows, the better to glower at him. Dagon winked and moved around the table. �śI looked at one of your women’s magazines when I was exploring your world. I discovered all your secrets.” She snorted, trying to ignore his big body settling over her soft one. �śYou can’t believe everything you read.” He bent down and whispered a suggestion in her ear, nuzzling as he did. He’d read it in the magazine and been intrigued by the idea, vowing he would try it for himself. The time had come. Her eyes widened. �śThat doesn’t really work. I mean, for me. As a turn on. I think it would be messy.” Even so, her breathing had picked up. Eyes sparkling wickedly, he popped her top open, then reached over to the table and grabbed a crystal dish of whipped fruit cream. �śLet’s find out.” �śDagon! No, wait�"yiie!” Vana gasped as the creamy stuff landed on her breast with a cool splat, squirming as Dagon held her in place. Despite herself, a warm dampness started between her legs. She wasn’t really getting turned on by this, was she? Grinning like a shark, Dagon set the dish down and cupped her breasts, smoothing the cream around with great relish. He took an experimental lick of one pebbled nipple. �śMm. Tasty.” �śDagon�"” she gasped as he swirled one finger around her breast, then lifted it to her mouth, slicking it between her lips, making her taste what he did. Her eyes glazed over. Pleased, he glanced at the table, then smiled. Ripping open her skirt with one quick tug, he ignored her exclamations and lifted the tiny syrup pitcher. �śOh, no! Dagon, you�"” Vana gasped as the cool liquid dripped into her woman’s curls and ran down her cleft, dampening her already wet clef. Dagon smiled and kissed her senseless before licking his way down to a man’s honeyed paradise. Vana was shocked with her responsiveness. It wasn’t like her to go for the messy stuff�"jello wrestling had never been one of her turn-ons, or so she’d though. Maybe it was good that he was the more adventurous one�"some things shouldn’t be missed. Conscious thought splintered, ousted by pure sensation. He took every care of her, always so careful to ensure her pleasure before taking his own. Silently, he proved his love for her, inventing many ways to please her, devoting every consideration to her in this realm since he couldn’t give her everything in others. She didn’t need the words to know he would give her everything he could, and in a world so often demanding hard choices, it was a huge concession to offer her what little he had left. She’d thought him a rich man, a man with all the choices, but she’d been so wrong. The right choices were hard, and came with no guarantees, yet he made them anyway. It was the measure of a man that he chose to think of how his decisions would affect others, no matter what the cost, and he was strong enough to stand by them. He’d won her trust, and it was that trust that made their loving all the more powerful, the more real, so that when she finally climaxed, it was in a blaze of joy, completely without fear and very, very powerful. Ah, what a pleasure loving a good man could be. Growling softly, Dagon rose above her and claimed his lawful place between her thighs. The claiming made them both moan, made him swear words of devotion even as he fought a too quick climax. Love was their battlefield, pleasure their war, and he fought to prolong it until it roared over them and swept them both away. Some battles were better off lost. � Nikon’s little skirmish was not one of them. They were waiting for him in the audience chamber when he strode in that afternoon, as confident as if he owned the palace. Attired in a long sleeved crimson tunic and trousers with a black mandarin collar trimmed in gold braid instead of body armor, he wore no weapons of any kind. Perhaps he knew that he wouldn’t stand a chance against the full arsenal of Beast wrath, or perhaps it was his way of stating his own worth. Either way, the blond king was definitely not there in the guise of humble supplicant. Nikon looked at Vana, who sat enthroned at Dagon’s side. �śYou’re looking well, Tzara. My hopes for a smooth delivery.” Resplendent in her royal regalia, Vana inclined her head. �śMy thanks for your timely assistance, my lord.” Nikon’s eyes glittered as he regarded Dagon. �śLet us hope the gesture leads to a new beginning for both our peoples.” The silence stretched out as Dagon returned his stare. Never one to waste breath on diplomatic chatter, he asked calmly, �śWhat do you claim as reward, Nikon? I think you have some appreciation for what I can and can’t give you.” Tread carefully, was left unspoken. A raised brow expressed Nikon’s opinion of the warning. �śAs you have an appreciation for what I did for you.” He looked meaningfully at Vana. �śI ask only to be rewarded in kind.” �śYou wish for only one woman in exchange? A surprisingly modest request, Nikon.” �śI was not the only one who assisted in the hunt for the Mother Tree’s fruit,” Nikon pointed out, all traces of humor gone. �śYou know that a single woman will not fill the need among my people.” �śAre you certain your people, as a whole, still desire women?” The question was soft, but full of quiet menace. Nikon seemed to be biting the inside of his cheek�"hard. Granite might have been softer than his expression. �śSome do. They will not be offered to those who accept their friends and brothers as substitutes.” Though apparently relaxed, Dagon’s frame emitted an aura of suppressed energy as he slowly traced the line of his jaw with one finger. �śHow do you plan to defend your women from the vast bulk of your kingdom? Will the sodomites not rebel and demand women of their own? I understood that the core of your fellow believers was quite small.” Nikon was silent. Unblinking, Dagon continued, �śShould we steal women for you, it would only be a small number. Thirty, at the most. More than enough for your personal cadre, and just enough to get you killed. No, I’m afraid I can’t continence putting helpless women in that position.” As if each word were ground glass, Nikon grated, �śYou have a suggestion.” It wasn’t a question, and by the stiff set of his shoulders, he wasn’t enjoying having his shortcomings pointed out to him. �śOne.” Dagon raised his head and straightened in his chair, negligently crossing one leg over the other. �śAbdicate.” Murmurs of shock ran through the assembled courtiers as the word fell into their midst, like a stone thrown into dark waters. Nikon seemed barely to breathe. �śYou broker a woman’s body for the price of a kingdom? My blood paid for my throne! Nine generations of my fathers defended and died serving my country�"” �śAnd your father nearly wiped out not only my kingdom, but his own!” Dagon’s charge cracked like a whip, shattering Nikon’s impassioned speech. �śYour little virus has caused the death of countless millions, and nearly wiped away what hope we had in this generation. No, Nikon. I’m not inclined to be generous. I won’t give you women to drag home and degrade and I won’t give you the coordinates to rape Vana’s world. If you want women, you will get them one way. Abdicate and remove with your supporters to a secure location of my choice. In return, I will supply you with women, supplies and military protection until you become established. That is my final offer, and I require a choice now.” Vana winced. The choice must be eating Nikon up inside. It was a long fall for a small reward. Then again, maybe not. Dagon’s sources told him that Nikon’s political defeat was imminent. He was in danger of a coup and public execution, along with his core of supporters. Whether he wanted to face it or not, Dagon was doing him a favor. He could either accept it, or go home and die. It was not a choice a king would care to make. Finally, Nikon took a deep, ragged breath, pure defiance and fury glittering in his eyes. �śI will abdicate, but you must allow me send for the men I left behind. They will bring supplies with them, and my people will cheer them as they go, believing that they will be bringing back women. Once we have our women in hand, I will broadcast my true intentions. Lend me a knife.” Dagon gestured to a courtier, and he warily handed Nikon a dagger. Swiftly, Nikon sliced his hand, watching impassively as bright blood spilled forth and splattered on the marble floor. �śWith this blood, I seal my words. I will abdicate, go into the exile of your choosing once our bargain is fulfilled, and remain aloof from any traffic with my people.” �śSwear also to treat the women with respect and care,” Dagon demanded, not yet appeased. A crooked smile twisted Nikon’s mouth. �śYou underestimate us if you think we will treat our women with anything less than the greatest care, but yes, I swear it. We haven’t waited these long years for a miracle to use it ill now.” His eyes narrowed. �śI also curse you by this spilled blood, if you do not meet your end of the bargain. May your loins shrivel and your body palsy beyond all hope of pleasure should your word fail.” Dagon’s brows rose. �śIt will not.” With a short, ironic nod, Nikon signaled his agreement. Without a backward glance, he turned and strode out the door. Vana watched him go. �śHe’ll have a battle convincing his followers to back him in this.” Snorting softly, Dagon rose and offered her his hand. �śWith those enticements? You underestimate him. If he could keep his men loyal through assassination attempts and cut throat politics, he can surely lead them now. It’s the coming war with his kingdom that concerns me more.” They’d moved behind the thrones and into the private hallway leading to their chambers, so their conversation remained discreet. Mindful of that, Vana asked, �śWhat do you mean? Do you think they’ll be angry? I mean, if they�ŚI mean, with other men�Ś.” Flustered, she broke off. World-weary resignation shown in Dagon’s glance. �śJust because they’ve learned to debase their bodies doesn’t mean they won’t desire women, if they are offered. Unfortunately for them, they won’t get the chance. Our laws and beliefs won’t tolerate giving pure women to a twisted culture.” Silent for a moment, Vana mulled that over. �śWouldn’t they change if given a chance?” They’d reached their chambers, and she drew off her high-collared ceremonial robe, eager for her hairdresser to start taking down her tortuously styled hair. The man had actually used a frame and pads to put it up today, and she didn’t have a prayer of taking it down without his help. As soon as she got a free moment, she was going to go over the hairstyle pictures she’d collected and try to convince him that royal appearances didn’t require wigged out tresses. Dagon snorted and threw his sleeveless blue duster toward the bed. It slid off the side and landed in a soft blue puddle on the artfully woven rug. �śMore likely they’d twist the women to their way of thinking. You don’t know what their culture is like. Nikon is an aberration, and he’s treated like one, for all they’ve had to bow to his rule. With him out of the way, there will be no one pressing for peace. War is inevitable.” Depressed, Vana sat at her newly installed vanity. Her hairdresser, Jefar, came and started untangling her locks from their wire frame. Determined not to think about politics for the next hour, Vana took the hairstyle reference she’d book marked and started flipping through the pages. �śJefar, we need to do something different here.” Less than thrilled with Vana’s notions of proper hair care, Jefar relented enough to adopt a less severe style for that evening’s banquet. Her hair was swept up in a high pony tail and multi-braided with wires into the resemblance of a Spanish hair comb. Not quite what she was after, but attractive in its way and a darn sight better than that morning’s uncomfortable do. It was a start. With luck, someday she might even convince him to leave the wires out of her hair altogether. Smirking to herself, Vana entered the banquet on Dagon’s arm. To her surprise, Nikon was seated at the head table, along with Ellyn, Dagon’s mother. Vana shot Dagon a startled glance. His oblique look accompanied his soft, �śWhen testing a snake�Ś.” He left the rest of his cryptic reference unsaid. Puzzling over his proverb, Vana allowed him to seat her, then sent polite, if stiff, smiles around the table. After all, Ellyn hadn’t been proven guilty yet. Ellyn was a better actress, or else she was feeling triumphant, assuming that her name had been cleared. She smiled back with queenly serenity, tinged with triumph. This was her moment, and she was at her best, talking and chatting away with her neighbors as if she’d never seen disgrace. Seated at her side, Nikon seemed rather reserved in contrast, his conversation measured, his expression as he looked at Ellyn slightly perplexed. Once he even caught Dagon’s eye and looked his question. Dagon merely raised his brows slightly and let his gaze wander away. A frown touched Nikon’s eyes, to be replaced by a look of irony. He sipped his wine, occasionally responding to the veiled challenges around him with satirical wit or concise deflections. He seemed unwilling to provoke a war at his host’s table. Vana found herself admiring the man. Handsome, in a rough sort of way, he emanated a powerful confidence reminiscent of Dagon, and he seemed to possess a sense of more humor. He had to be tense, but he hid it well. In the midst of her mussing, his dark eyes caught hers. She blinked. If she didn’t already have Dagon�Ś. Frowning, she averted her gaze and thought resolutely of impending motherhood. The thought brought a smile to her lips, and she glanced at Dagon to find him watching her. Leaning over, she whispered, �śYou’re going to love it when my belly starts rounding, aren’t you?” She was unprepared for the slow heat smoldering in his stare. Lazily, he set his lips to her ear. �śDon’t tempt me, little wife. I’m already feeling�Śpossessive.” Shivering, she grinned and looked back over the guests, trying to behave. �śOh! Could you get that for me, Nikon?” Ellyn had dropped her utensil. Nikon barely paused before he leaned down and retrieved it for her, wordlessly handing it to a serving lad. The lad deftly replaced it. �śThank you,” Ellyn murmured, and proceeded to ignore him. Dagon sipped his wine, hiding a faint, grim smile behind the rim. � Chapter 9 � Nikon turned without expression when he heard Ellyn behind him. Her note, which he’d retrieved along with her utensil, had instructed him to meet her here. Now he waited wordlessly, wondering if she were losing her mind. �śMilady.” She smiled at him, halting two paces away on his balcony. �śYour majesty. It’s a pleasure to meet you in person.” He raised an ironic brow. �śPish. You didn’t come here with warring in mind. I’ve nothing to fear from you.” �śYou have much to fear from your son.” � She was silent for a moment. �śIt’s unfortunate that he suspected me in the tragedy surrounding his wife, but he seems to have recovered his senses. As you saw tonight, I’m welcome at his table.” Nikon hadn’t survived plotting nobles, attempted revolts and devious generals to let a woman hang him now. He knew the value of silence. Ellyn glance out at the star-studded night. �śYou’ll soon be returning home with women of your own and a shiny new treaty. I’m curious about your world�ŚI’d like to see it.” �śWould you?” Her ignorance of the details of his agreement didn’t surprise him. He’d often used misinformation to rout out his own traitors. Smiling as only a woman could, she moved nearer. �śI could be an asset to you, my lord. I know things that you’d find very educational, both politically and�Śsensually,” she said softly, trailing one gleaming nail down his chest. She crooked her finger and hooked it behind his belt. �śShould my son defraud you, you would not go home empty handed.” He regarded her through hooded eyes. �śYou don’t fear what you might become? Our women are not as�Śsheltered as yours.” She laughed. �śI can hold my own, my lord. I always have.” �śAnd you’ve never been satisfied with only one man.” Eyes shuttered, she turned gracefully away and looked out at the night. �śMen are not the only one with passions.” �śAnd your son will just let you go?” �śHe thinks me capable of murder.” �śAre you?” She assessed him for a moment, knowing he was testing her. �śAll of us are, when pushed.” He raised his brows mockingly. �śDid you give the woman the virus?” He let his voice drop an octave, let her hear sensual excitement, knew she would appreciate it. She lowered her eyes and smiled mysteriously. �śLet us say, I made it possible. Mine wasn’t the murdering hand.” He moved closer, murmured, �śJust the one that pulled the trigger.” Ellyn shrugged modestly. Nikon looked up, unsurprised when Beast warriors suddenly filled the balcony. He sighed and took a step back, waiting to see what would happen. �śWhat is this?” Ellyn demanded sharply. She gasped when Dagon joined them, looking darkly satisfied. �śWhat are you�"” she gasped as Dagon backhanded her so hard she crumpled to the ground. No one caught her. Nikon looked mildly surprised, but kept his council. �śThat was for my wife, and for the women you would have murdered out of spite,” Dagon said coldly. �śYou’ve never had a hand laid on you in your entire life, and you’ll not have another. Guards, take her outside and shoot her. Burn the body where it falls and scatter the ashes outside the city in the barren lands. She’s not worthy of a proper burial.” �śDagon,” Ellyn whimpered as the guards prodded her with their guns. �śSon!” �śYou have none,” he said coldly. �śYou gave them to the woman you tried to murder.” Composed and deadly, he watched as she was forced away, his eyes glittering dangerously in the night. �śNow what?” Nikon said when only two guards remained. �śAren’t you going to kill me, too?” Dagon glanced at him. �śYou weren’t part of this plot. I’m even grateful you chose to draw her out.” Nikon relaxed a little. �śLeast I could do, since I knew you had to be watching. She mentioned another, though. Don’t you want to question her to find out who?” �śNo need. He’s been dead for weeks. It was the medic Vana took such a dislike to. A former spy, too.” Dagon stared at Nikon. Who raised his hands. �śI had no part of their plot. I didn’t want the women harmed.” �śI know. That’s why you’ll live, along with the women I promised you. You’ll leave tomorrow.” Nikon took a deep breath and expelled it slowly, shaken from his legendary control. �śThank you,” he said gruffly. Dagon inclined his head. That part of his story had closed. Taking a deep breath of his own, he left to find his wife. � Vana listened silently, then released a shaky sigh. �śSo it’s over. She’s dead.” �śShe’s dead,” he said gravely. A part of him bled�"he’d ordered his mother’s death that night. It had been a just punishment, and his honor, his sense of justice, were firmly satisfied. It would take time for the man inside to heal, though. Perhaps it would never truly happen. Vana took one look at his face and came to him, laying her head on his chest, stroking him slowly with her hands, soothing him even as she sought comfort. �śIt will be all right,” she said softly. �śIt will be all right.” � Author’s Note � Vana’s prediction came true. In time she gave birth to many daughters, sweet, beautiful girls who grew into strong women. Though she never got to bear sons of her own, she watched in satisfaction as first her adopted sons, then her blood children, bred both granddaughters and grandsons of their own. Though she never lifted a sword, both Vana and the women of her generation managed to save an entire race from destruction. As for their enemies, Nikon’s twisted nation, they eventually grew old and died out, unable to produce issue. Perhaps that was both justice, and mercy, enough. � � The End � � About the author: � I'm a stay at home mom with three kids, a dog and an active imagination. I spent the first 34 years of my life in Alaska, land of the midnight sun, but these days I'm located in Washington, and am enjoying a much warmer sun :) � I'm married to my high school sweetheart, John, who is known to bring me flowers "just because". � My leisure time is filled with gardening, crochet, knitting, sewing, art and reading. � Connect with me online at: � www.autumndawnbooks.com http://authorautumndawn.blogspot.com � Table of Contents Prologue Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9