by Emma Dean
“Sire, here is the information you requested from our latest reports,” Felix said, sliding another disc toward him. His Second was a quiet man, but he got the job done and was fiercely loyal. The citizens would obey him in Varan’s absence.
“Thank you, Felix. Have you managed to gather anything else?” Varan switched the discs and found the coordinates he needed.
Three starships were needed, and Adelina might only get one from the palace. Varan had started his search the second the vid-call had ended. Then there was the matter of everything else she would need for such a journey. How they were going to manage was beyond him. Hopefully Felix had pulled through.
“Yes, your majesty, I’ve gotten a few good leads. I’ll send you the information in a cast.”
Varan nodded and indicated his Second and friend should eat with them. “Will you be able to manage while I’m gone?”
“You’re leaving?” Roxy hissed. At least she had the good sense not to shout it to the world.
Varan shot her a look. “Yes, I told you I was asked to serve. I’m needed for a mission that may actually make a difference in this war.”
She huffed and crossed her arms, pushing those massive breasts out even farther. Felix’s eyes nearly popped out of his head. “I don’t like it, Varan. If you leave, your throne will be open and you will not be here to accept a challenge. Anyone could take it.”
He bared his teeth in a feral smile. “Then I suppose those who are loyal to me will have to defend it, and keep that from happening, hm?”
“You risk too much for these royals who know nothing of our lives.” Roxy threw back another drink and turned back to the Games.
Varan ignored her and studied the map he’d been given from every angle, compared the two sets of coordinates and chose one. The best point of entry to the Hai galaxy would be one with the least amount of Neprijat present, and the most civil of the Drakesthai. There weren’t many options, but the second choice was closest to the Drakesthai’s ruling planet. The least amount of resistance would be best.
If the Neprijat realized they carried a royal Draga onboard…he was terrified to find out what they would do. If they did get their claws on her Varan supposed they’d kill Raena and Giselle, or use her as ransom, maybe kill Adelina as a warning to them all.
Well, they’d have to get through him and every single warrior he could scrounge up. A ship with top-notch defenses and weapons wouldn’t hurt either. He glanced at Roxy again and prayed to Ladra Roxy would help him. Because Varan was no fool, if they didn’t succeed the Neprijat would tear their galaxy to shreds.
“Who do you think will win the Hunt?” Roxy asked.
Varan sent out another request and hoped the assassins would respond. “Either Raena or that Priea lady, Veri, I believe,” he muttered as he tapped out the message. “Never have I seen so many bloodthirsty females in one place in all my life.”
“You think I could win the Hunt?” Roxy asked, tilting her head in question and Felix stared at her long neck.
Varan kicked his Second under the table. Felix could never get the courage up to ask Roxy if he could court her, and mooning over her only made him look ridiculous. Felix was nearly as submissive as Adelina, but he was big, strong, and loyal. He would serve well and protect Varan’s throne while he was away.
Varan shook his head with a rueful smile. “Darling, I know you could win the Hunt, you’re the most bloodthirsty of them all.”
He wondered what it said about him that he liked to surround himself with vicious women who wouldn’t even blink at tearing his throat out if he crossed a line.
Probably nothing good.
He switched over to another report. Varan had sent a few of his spies a cast when Prince Nash had left. They’d notified him the second he’d appeared in the area. Thanks to the big brute they’d been able to hold the border against skirmishes and protect the outposts, but there was nothing to explain what had happened after the attack that morning.
His spies were silent as the dead and it worried him.
Varan sent out another cast and then contacted some of the guards he knew at the Seprilles Family Seat. He grimaced and set down his device to focus on the Games.
Ladra protect his people.
Chapter Six
Joslynn
Palace Grounds
Draga Royal Palace
Planet Draga Terra
Joslynn waited on the terrace, watching the events unfold on the grounds below. Rings were set up for the various fights, and galinas were carefully brought out of the stables for the races. It was exactly like the Games she’d held on Pedranus every cycle, but all the citizens participated and it could take weeks to complete. These Games were on a completely different level, and the gold spent for the prizes as well as the decorations had to have been substantial.
With only nobles competing in these Games it wouldn’t take nearly as long to finish up the various different competitions. Though the Hunt would be the most favored as a crown was in the balance; king or queen for a night would tempt anyone. The crown of bones with a single ruby was on display for all to see, and the palace publicist spoke into a recorder as she explained the events on the stage in front of the massive display. The events were shown on the vid and allowed all to watch from any location.
Joslynn watched the nobles, courtiers, and everyday citizens pass by – but she kept her eyes sharp for Adelina. She hoped to help the princess in any way she could after what had happened that morning. The feelings evoked had introduced Joslynn to an entirely new level of horror, one she hadn’t quite thought possible. What frightened her most was that she knew this was only the beginning. Raena was a dangerous ruler, even if she didn’t actually plan on serving up her youngest sister as a sacrifice.
Joslynn shook her head. It wasn’t just that unpleasantness, it was coming face to face with the Neprijat King. That’s what Sirus had to face on the battlefield, that’s what he’d somehow survived per the reports. It was more than a miracle; it was the skill he had as a warrior.
Goddess, she missed the big brute so much. It hadn’t been long, but Joslynn had gotten used to having him by her side. Then she’d thought of nothing else but the wedding, the diamond she’d given to Adelina, and how she should have listened to the princess and married Sirus when she’d had the chance.
What if something had happened to him? Hearing the report, seeing those awful, dead eyes of the Neprijat had made the reality of the war and the danger hit home. Joslynn pressed a hand to her belly and tried to keep the tears back.
At first she’d been devastated to find out she wasn’t pregnant. She’d hoped against hope that she would conceive and it would be a fantastic surprise for Sirus when he returned to her. Now Joslynn was almost thankful it hadn’t occurred after seeing what monsters hunted them all. But sadness and pain weighed on her, not only emotional – but physical as well.
It was the first time in her life Joslynn had menstruated after activating her fertility. The cramps hurt worse than she’d ever thought possible and she thanked the ancient doctor who had allowed them to prevent the pain unless attempting to conceive. It had to have been a female physician; no male could understand everything a human female had to deal with.
“Joslynn,” Adelina said. Her soft voice was like velvet fluttering in the wind and Joslynn turned with a smile to the princess.
“Adelina,” Joslynn said, inclining her head towards the princess and then her courtesan. “I’m glad you could join me.”
The princess linked her arm with Joslynn’s and they took their time heading down the stone steps towards the expansive grounds. “You will not be participating in the Games?” Adelina asked.
Joslynn shook her head and glanced around to see if any of those damned recorders were nearby. “Why do you ask?”
“I can smell blood.”
She jerked at those words and shot a look of alarm at the princess. Was her sense of smell really that good? Joslynn had been sure to wear enou
gh perfume to cover the scent. She knew the Dragas were a bit different, but Joslynn was still learning exactly how.
“Don’t worry, whatever you have on plus the crowds should hide it,” Adelina promised. The princess gave Nadyah a look and the courtesan nodded.
Joslynn had no idea what their silent conversation was about, but perhaps she should go back to her rooms. Adelina gave her a long, assessing look and Joslynn squirmed.
“I’m sorry there was no child,” she whispered, leaning into Joslynn. “Nadyah will protect you if you’d like to stay and enjoy the Games with me.”
Joslynn didn’t want to stay cooped up in the palace when she felt sad and lonely. She nodded. “I’d like to stay if that’s all right.”
Adelina patted her hand. “Of course, you can sit with me.”
Joslynn smiled in gratitude and followed the princess towards the raised platform for the royal family. King Orion and Queen Adele already sat under the shade with servants ensuring they had chilled drinks and fruit available. Hundreds of people swarmed the palace grounds, but it was a much more informal gathering than the Welcome Banquet had been, or the coming-of-age party.
The summer sun baked the earth and Joslynn could feel the heat in the stones through the soles of her shoes. The Kala sun around the Summer Solstice was merciless. After the morning Games, there would be lunch and a quick rest, and then it would be time for the Hunt. Joslynn loved a good Hunt, and was a bit wistful she couldn’t fully participate. The animal felled that day would be served at dinner, during the twilight hour.
Joslynn had never seen anything quite like the setting sun on Draga. The twilight breeze of dusk, the violets, pinks, and greys of the world were breathtaking. Pedranus simply didn’t have the kind of sunlight for such magnificence as watching Kala dip below the ocean.
“Are you going to join in any of the activities?” Joslynn asked. She smiled at the commoners who stared in open wonder and awe to simply be a part of such events.
“No, I do not plan to,” the princess replied, stopping to speak with some of the common citizens.
Joslynn waited patiently as they practically fell over themselves at the princess’s attention, stumbling over their words and protocol. It was kind of adorable in a way. Adelina’s laughter and kindness put them at ease as they chatted. The youngest princess had always been the best about maintaining relations with the people. It was a giant misfortune she had not been the first-born.
Once Adelina had moved on Joslynn jumped in, glancing at the way Nadyah shadowed them both. “Why not, Princess? I’ve heard you’re quite skilled with a bow.”
Adelina glanced at Joslynn and shrugged. She appreciated that the princess no longer tried to play those stupid court games with her. Adelina didn’t act shy around her, she didn’t dissemble, and she simply was herself around Joslynn.
“It seems prudent to keep the attention away from me at the moment.”
Joslynn glanced at Raena across the grounds as a male came up beside them. Adelina didn’t even have to give her a specific reason, it was clear as day and she hated to agree. It was safer, as Joslynn had heard the grumblings and whispers in the halls, words that would have been treasonous if reported.
Nadyah put herself between Joslynn and the blue-haired, chocolate brown-eyed beauty. The courtesan shielding her was such a small thing, but Joslynn was alone on Draga Terra and she appreciated it more than she could ever say.
“Will you be participating in the Games?” Adelina asked the young male after he introduced himself with a deep bow. He couldn’t be much older than the princess.
The breadth and height of him; he was utterly massive. Joslynn couldn’t help but admire his form and the soft beauty of his face. The male blushed when he nodded. “I plan to, your highness. What Game will you be playing?”
Adelina watched as the palace staff finished setting up rings for the swords, an archery range, galina races, and the game all of Draga knew as part of their culture and history – the game of the Wolf. Joslynn could see the longing on the princess’s face and wished she could do something to help her.
The princess turned back to Stefano and shrugged. “Someone needs to help keep score,” she said with that smile she wore for the livestream.
The male looked nervous as he offered Adelina his arm. “May I escort you to your seat then?” he asked, words stiff and formal.
Joslynn turned to hide her smile.
Adelina placed her hand over his fist. Despite his more dominant scent Stefano took the submissive position due to his lesser rank and placed one arm behind his back as he led her across the sweet grass field.
She trailed after the princess with Nadyah at her side. It really was a sight to behold. Had the royals ever allowed citizens to partake in their events and Games like the nobility? Joslynn couldn’t remember if there’d ever been such a thing before. Now here they were with this handsome male escorting a princess.
“Your host family has taught you protocol I see,” Adelina said.
The pair took their time walking to the raised platform and Joslynn smiled. The other commoners watched in obvious jealousy and the courtiers giggled and whispered as usual. The princess didn’t ever look away from Stefano.
“I hope this is not all too much.” Adelina waved her hand to indicate the opulence, the strict protocol, the courtiers, and the intensity of the recorders that followed her and Stefano with barely any room to breathe.
Joslynn felt guilty, but she was glad those recorders weren’t on her.
Stefano shook his head and then glanced at Adelina as if wondering if such a casual gesture was allowed. “The Priea House has been very kind and…instructive,” he said. “Their house in the city is stunning, and they’ve treated me with every kindness. The time I get to spend here and the experiences are a once in a lifetime event. Fear would only tarnish that.”
A brave male, Joslynn thought. She had thought his accent indicated the planet Priea, but despite the color of his hair she hadn’t been sure. His eyes were too dark for the average Priean citizen.
“Are you enjoying your time on Draga Terra?” the princess asked as they reached the platform.
“It is a bit hotter,” Stefano laughed. “But thankfully it is not as humid as Priea. The jungles seal in the moisture, and if the right fabrics are not worn you would be constantly soaked.”
Joslynn waited while Nadyah went to one of the guards standing next to the platform where the king and queen were already seated. She spoke in hushed whispers and the guard pointed at a pile of weapons behind the platform. It must have been Adelina’s personal guard then. Once the courtesan was satisfied she drifted back to Joslynn’s side and the guard’s focus was back on the mingling nobility.
“I’ll have to thank the Lady Veri for taking such good care of you,” Adelina teased, running a hand down Stefano’s well-muscled arm.
Joslynn’s eyes nearly popped out of her head. She could see what the princess meant; she saw the way the fabric clung to every muscle. The male really was gorgeous with those Priean markings. Veri was a goddess and she knew it. Stefano wasn’t far behind in appearance. But for Adelina to say such a thing out loud and so boldly in public was extremely out of character.
A glance at the courtesan showed a proud smile and Joslynn shook her head. The culture on Draga Terra wasn’t much different than the culture on Pedranus, but they did not have courtesans, and they very rarely underwent a camerraleto as it required travel to attain a proper instructor. There was no book she’d found that properly described the camerraleto and what it entailed, but she assumed this must be part of it.
“Would you like to have some tea with me?” Adelina asked Stefano. She tilted her head towards the nearby pavilion where most courtiers were eating, drinking, and enjoying the shade as the Games were finalized. Adelina caught Nadyah’s eye and her courtesan raised a brow as if to say ‘go ahead and play.’
Stefano seemed pleased with the request and Joslynn could see why. A change had
come over the sweet princess, and she practically oozed sex appeal. The princess led Stefano over to the pavilion and Joslynn wasn’t sure what to do.
Nadyah smiled and offered her an arm as a male would. “I need to stay by your side, Countess, but I must also watch over my pupil. Join me at the pavilion?”
Joslynn actually blushed, but she took the courtesan’s hand. “Is this part of the camerraleto?” she whispered. It fascinated her, but Joslynn was also embarrassed to ask.
Nadyah smiled wickedly as they trailed behind the princess and the gorgeously built male. “It’s practice. Adelina has been shy and reserved her entire life. Getting her to open up, relax, flirt, and seduce someone is not easy. She can learn how to perform every act in the bedroom perfectly, know fifty different positions with a female, a male, or both, or two males…” Nadyah trailed off.
Joslynn felt overwhelmed by all the possibilities, and couldn’t imagine studying such a thing herself.
“She can be the perfect lover, but if the princess cannot get them to the bedroom it is of no use and all that skill goes to waste. Adelina has to extrovert herself, and a lifetime of submission hasn’t made that easy. So we practice.” Nadyah gave Joslynn a wink. “Stefano is a lovely male to practice on, and it makes it a bit easier.”
Joslynn laughed as they passed by Lady Veri who was on Prince Asher’s arm. Asher couldn’t seem to resist the temptation of Priea either. Adelina gave Veri a wide smile and the female openly stared before grinning back. When the princess and Stefano reached the shaded pavilion he brought her to the table of tea and asked how she liked it.
Joslynn and Nadyah approached next and the courtesan brushed past Stefano to take a cup and then handed it to Joslynn. The male blustered his apology and Joslynn could barely contain her laughter. The courtesan had very purposefully brushed a breast against the poor male.