by Kasia Bacon
When I First Saw Red
Soldiers and Mercenaries Book 2
Kasia Bacon
Contents
Dear Reader
Glossary
1. Ōkkanô Means Scarlet
2. The Wants Of The Demon
3. Inoru Bri’ghail
4. Separation
5. The Aftermath Of The Storm
6. One Day Till Freedom
7. The White Boar
8. Epilogue
About the Author
The Order Universe Books
Excerpt: The Scouts
When I First Saw Red: Soldiers and Mercenaries Book 2
Copyright © 2020 Kasia Bacon
Published by The Order Universe
Kindle Edition
Written by: Kasia Bacon
Edited by: No Stone Unturned Editing Services
Line editing and proofreading: Jamie Smith Disterhaupt
Cover Photos: Shutterstock
Cover Design by: Kate Sumner
Logo Design by: Marek Frankowski
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used, copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the author except for the purpose of reviews.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and events described in this book are the product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblances to actual people or incidents are entirely coincidental.
WHEN I FIRST SAW RED
K A S I A
B A C O N
RED:
Lázhien’s human. A common Imperial soldier. And my soulmate.
How could fate get it so wrong?
The demon in me craves this bond with every shred of his being. He pushes me to accept it.
This time I won’t yield to his demands.
LÁZHIEN:
Red’s a lust demon, a whore and a stuck-up snob.
The most beautiful man I’ve ever seen.
Pain in the arse. And he hates my guts.
I’d be an idiot to pursue him. Yet something about him compels me to make him mine.
A tug-of-war between Choice and Fate
won by Love!
Dear Reader,
Welcome to Book Two of Soldiers & Mercenaries.
As I’ve mentioned in my newsletter and on social media, this series consists of complete and standalone stories featuring different couples from the Empire. Please do not fret if you were hoping for another tale about Yüuzuki and Ĥaiatto. With my fondness for crossovers, you can be certain the healer and his fighter (or shall I say ‘assassin?’) will inevitably pop out someplace. But to ease your suffering, I’ve written a humorous Don’t Fight the Spark extra scene, which at this time is exclusively available for the members of my author group as a free bonus. Make sure you join Bacon & Elves on Facebook if that sounds of interest.
I’m very excited to present Red’s story to you because this book is a tad different than my previous works: it’s longer, steamier and written in a dual narrative.
Having listened to my readers’ suggestions, I’ve also implemented one change to the layout of this book. The glossary, traditionally placed at the back of each Order Universe story, has now been moved to the front. I like the idea of treating my little lexicon as a primer, allowing readers to access information about the world before diving into the thick of it. Such alteration might, in particular, prove beneficial for the Order Universe newbies. However, in case you harbour a strong dislike towards glossaries, feel free to skip that section. While I consider the list of Order Universe terms and phrases a helpful reference, it’s simply an additional tool for those who crave the finer details.
If you’re familiar with other Order Universe books, you’ll know I have a penchant for writing characters who belong together, despite being cheese-and-chalk different from each other. Therefore, you’ll hardly find yourself bowled over by the realisation that When I First Saw Red is woven around the opposites-attract theme. It seemed a fun concept to add a couple of reluctant fated mates to such a premise and allow the initial animosity to fuel the lust between them.
Fans of Ervyn and Lochan might be pleased to hear that The Scouts is firmly marked as the next book in line for me to work on. I confess that I’m thrilled at the prospect of devoting my undivided attention to my favourite Elven couple.
Now though, shall we see what happens when a seed of destiny falls between a human drill master and a lust demon with an attitude the size of the Elven Country?
—Kasia Bacon
Glossary
Arbasium—A decorative plant with bell-shaped blooms, valued for its purple flowers and zesty fragrance. Native to the eastern regions of the Elven Country and fairly expensive to grow from seed, this pretty plant is a favourite among the nobles of the Empire. Arbasium is a perennial plant that blooms year-round (including winter). It also keeps its rich colour and refreshing scent when dried; therefore, it’s often made into drinkable infusions and included in beauty salves, balms and soaks.
Asirhwӱn (also called the Silver City for the colour of the stone used to build it)—The capital and most populous city of the Elven Country.
Azlě—The main town in the Radvadur province.
Barbarians—A number of free, wild tribes controlling the vast region south of the Elven Country and the Empire. Organised in independent groups, and bound by ever-changing alliances rather than forming one political entity, the Barbarians observe a variety of customs and speak separate languages. Considered primitive and savage by both Elven and human criteria, the tribes earned the reputation of fierce, physically hardened warriors.
Common Elven—The standard language spoken in the Elven Country.
Drill Master—An experienced officer (irrespective of rank) in the Imperial Forces tasked with combat training duties and responsible for maintenance of physical fitness, enforcement of discipline and execution of military drills.
Elder Races—Beings whose existence precede humanity. Non-humans, including Nymphs, Vampires, Furias, Elves, Shifters and Demons. Representatives of Elder Races possess a varying degree of ancient magic that might manifest itself through their magical abilities, enhanced strength, endurance, longevity or resilience to human illnesses.
Elfling—An inoffensive, colloquial word used to refer to a person of mixed human-Elven heritage.
Elven Country—The biggest country in the world with a capital in Asirhwӱn, inhabited by Elves and ruled by Queen Nae’amh II. Its territory neighbours the Empire in the east, the Barbarians in the south, the Livid Sea in the north and vast, impenetrable woodland areas in the west. Elven society is defined by the existence of the clan system, mandatory army service and widespread focus on military excellence. The Elven Country’s political and military hegemony over the human world was established in the aftermath of the Elven War.
Elven War—A series of field battles, sieges and minor military assaults between the Elven Country and the Empire, which spanned fifteen years. Ultimately, after the devastating defeat suffered by the Imperial Forces during the battle at Fhêrradyn, Emperor Xenedor was forced to accept Queen Nae’amh as his liege.
Emperor Arusen III—The great-grandfather of the currently reigning Emperor Xenedor. Arusen, nicknamed ‘The Builder’ by Imperial historians, was known for his architectural achievements. He left behind an enormous legacy consisting of strong military fortifications, magnificent monuments and many public utility buildings including libraries, temples and infirmaries. Emperor Arusen was the first ruler in the Empire who began systematic const
ruction of paved or gravelled highways. He equipped the entire network with milestones for travellers and mounting-blocks for riders.
Emperor Xenedor I—The ruler of the Empire, North and South Isles and—since the Empire’s loss in the war against the Elven Country—an unwilling liegeman to Queen Nae’amh II. The Supreme Commander of the Imperial Forces, which remain caught up in a drawn-out military conflict with the Barbarians.
Empire—The biggest human state with a capital in Ysêmyr, also inhabited by a percentage of non-humans and ruled by Emperor Xenedor I. Its territory consists of the progressive mainland and more conservative Northern and Southern Isles. The Empire finds itself in a state of internal unrest and is currently engaged in an endless and financially draining war with the Barbarians.
Freeday—The fourth day of the week that comes after three regular workdays and before two more, followed by Restday (seventh day of the week). On Freedays, people work shorter hours and dedicate their time to leisure activities.
Heiku (literally hot spring in Common Elven)—Large and luxurious complexes consisting of outdoor thermal baths, traditional inns and well-kept gardens developed around clusters of hot springs in volcanically active regions. The concept of heiku and the culture of public bathing originated in the Elven Country, then spread to the Empire. Heiku are popular places amongst the upper classes to relax, mingle and conduct business and also valued for their healing properties.
Imperial Army (also known as the Imperial Forces)—The supreme military force tasked with the defence of the mainland Empire as well as the North and South Isles archipelagos.
Inoru Bri’ghail (literally Meaningful Touch in the Old Language)—the initial part of bonding between a Tii-Matâshi and their fated soulmate that kicks off the entire process.
Leffledyn Gorge—the deepest river gorge in the Empire located west of Nygläär. The area, admired for its scenic views and rare wildlife, features basalt cliffs and abundance of waterfalls, geysers and cascade volcanoes.
Mogõ cat (also called a spiritual cat)—A long-haired breed, distinguished by its glossy coat, snub nose, big round eyes, bushy tail and long body. Mogõs find and choose their companions, naturally gravitating towards Mages, Sparks and members of the Elder Races. A deep connection with a mogõ can enhance the owner's magical abilities or protect them against lower-level hexes and curses. Playful and affectionate, mogõs are also longevous, on average living up to a hundred years old.
Nae’amh II—The Queen of the Elven Country and Crown dependencies; Commander-in-Chief of the Elven Armed Forces.
Něssyr—The large and lively port in the southern Empire situated on the coast of the Calm Sea. This cosmopolitan city is mainly inhabited by merchants, artists, whores and mercenaries, and attracts visits from pirates, traders and vagrants from all over. Něssyr is known for being home to the Order and also for its picturesque beaches, ragged black cliffs and hot coastal climate.
Nygläär Garrison—The second biggest army garrison (after H’Aren Fortress) in the Empire. Well-manned and armed to the teeth, its primary goal is the defence of the southwest Imperial territory against Elven or Barbarian military threats.
Nygläär—The small and charming city south of Radvadur province, located within a close distance of the Elven border. Famous for hosting a lively red-light district, a high-end heiku and a large garrison just outside the city walls.
Order—The most formidable and influential Assassins’ Guild, located in the south of the Empire, on the outskirts of the port city of Něssyr. The Order, which uses a hawk as its symbol, is headed by the Grand Master and Council of Enforcers.
Paternal Elf—A person of mixed racial heritage, born to a human mother and an Elven father. Paternal Elves display only some of the physical and biological qualities of a pureblood. Their social status in the Elven Country is a mere fraction higher than that of a human. Paternal Elves are considered non-citizens and belong to the lowest caste in the Elven society; thus the majority chooses to live in the Empire.
Queen’s National Army (also known as the Elven Armed Forces)—The principal warfare force tasked with the defence of the Elven Country and the Crown dependencies. It remains the world’s largest and best-trained military power. Queen Nae’amh II serves as its Commander-in-Chief.
Radvadur—A vast region in the volatile Western Borderlands of the Empire. It extends between the Elven Country and the Barbarian-controlled southern territory. The province, populated by a large percentage of Paternal Elves and non-humans, is governed by the Lord of Radvadur.
South Isles Archipelago—An extensive chain of islands scattered across the Calm Sea. Even though the South Isles constitute part of the Empire geographically and maintain close links with it in terms of politics and economy, they enjoy a relatively large degree of autonomy. The South Isles are inhabited by a significant population of Shifters.
Tii-Matâshi (also called Two-Souls and Split-Souls)—Non-humans. Lust (or sex) demons—descendants of ancient Incubi and Succubi—residing in the bodies of Elder Race beings. The presence of the demon doesn’t manifest in an individual until post-puberty. Tii-Matâshi are characterised by unquenchable libido that requires them to engage in constant sexual activity.
Universally admired for their physical attractiveness and powerful magnetism, Tii-Matâshi are deemed desired sexual partners. However, they are also feared and discriminated against—in particular within the human society—because of their dichotomous nature and ability to use glamour.
The Imperial law requires Tii-Matâshi to acquire a facial tattoo from a purposely trained and highly skilled Mage. With time, such markings evolve to form an extension of a Tii-Matâshi’s Magic. Due to its artful look, the tattoo is considered extremely attractive by human standards.
Tobu trees—Small, ornamental, white-flowered trees typical for the climate of the Western Empire. Tobu are admired for their stunning star-shaped blooms and pleasant aroma. The flowering display usually occurs three times a year, in between rainy seasons.
Trovo—The biggest and southernmost island in the Northern Isles archipelago on the Livid Sea known for its boundless natural resources, salt mines and extraordinary variety of wildlife.
Viah Grah—An alchemist from Ysêmyr who shot to fame and fortune upon discovering that heat-treated, powdered purple algae from the north waters of the Calm Sea help treat low libido and erectile dysfunction.
Ysêmyr—The capital and the most populous city of the Empire. The place where the Emperor resides and keeps his Court; also famous for wine production.
For my Friends from the Café on our third anniversary—I’m grateful for you all.
“The Elven term Tii-Matâshi literally translates as ‘Two-Soul’ or ‘Split-Soul’. It refers to an Elder Race being whose body is permanently and irreversibly inhabited by a lust demon—either an Incubus or Succubus.
The demon’s insatiable sexual appetite and compelling need to engage in frequent intercourse with humans define the host’s entire existence. While not free of conflict and friction, the relationship between the host and the demon usually becomes harmonious over time, allowing for a reasonable coexistence as long as the demon’s urges are tended to. Denying the cravings of one’s demon leads to the ill health or even insanity of the host.
In rare circumstances, a Tii-Matâshi can develop a special bond with their soulmate, who—on mutual acceptance of fate—becomes the Tii-Matâshi’s life companion and the sole recipient of their sexual interest until one of the soulmates dies.
Having offspring is even more exceptional, even though Tii-Matâshi can reproduce in bonded pairs or outside of them. Unmated lust demons, however, will always abandon their young.
Humans, as typical for the species, adapt an ambiguous attitude towards Two-Souls, wherein fascination mixes with signs of outright racial prejudice. Despite the human propaganda depicting Tii-Matâshi as wicked and vicious soul-stealing monsters, they are in fact relatively harmless, if a little mischievous, wilful an
d temperamental by nature. Not to mention prone to theatrics.
Tii-Matâshi enjoy long lifespans, even by Elven standards. They pass some of their longevity onto their soulmates through the mating spark.
Lust demons are capable of throwing glamours and small enchantments. Their beauty and physical allure are legendary. Sexual encounters with Tii-Matâshi have remained a source of artistic inspiration for countless painters, bards and storytellers throughout the generations. Given the opportunity to sample a Tii-Matâshi’s bedroom skills, one would be foolish indeed to refuse such a riveting experience.”
—The Great Lexicon of Elder Races
Ōkkanô Means Scarlet
LÁZHIEN
I’d never been one for whorehouses.
When it came to carnal entertainment, the advantages of having a steady lover had always appealed to me, both in terms of cost and convenience. Having spent half of my life in barracks, camps and garrisons, my preference lay—quite literally—with soldiers, simply because of their immediate availability and reluctance to form ties that went beyond camaraderie.